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Mel Goes to Hell #2
See You in Hell
Hate your job? Try working in HELL!
Melody Angel takes a job as a temp at the HELL Corporation. Surrounded by eternal bureaucracy gone mad, demons who love making life miserable, and dying for a decent coffee, it may take a miracle for Mel's mission to succeed. She must find out what evil plans the Lord of Lies has up his sleeve and stop him, using any means necessary. Lucifer and his minions are out to take over the world, but there's more than money at stake when the Devil drives.
Adding trouble and temptation to Mel's job is Luce Iblis, the damnably hot CEO, who has set his smouldering eyes on the new office angel and is determined to claim her, body and soul.
Can ultimate evil and angelic perfection escape a limbo of desire and find a paradise of their own?
Melody Angel takes a job as a temp at the HELL Corporation. Surrounded by eternal bureaucracy gone mad, demons who love making life miserable, and dying for a decent coffee, it may take a miracle for Mel's mission to succeed. She must find out what evil plans the Lord of Lies has up his sleeve and stop him, using any means necessary. Lucifer and his minions are out to take over the world, but there's more than money at stake when the Devil drives.
Adding trouble and temptation to Mel's job is Luce Iblis, the damnably hot CEO, who has set his smouldering eyes on the new office angel and is determined to claim her, body and soul.
Can ultimate evil and angelic perfection escape a limbo of desire and find a paradise of their own?
First published April 30, 2014
About the author
Demelza Carlton
141 books3,873 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
April 9, 2018
This is a 4.5 star read.
Holy HELL! Another hilarious offering in the Mel Goes To Hell series, and again one I could not put down. I just love Mel to bits - for her witty repartee, her ability to help her fellow demon co-workers unjudgementally, her ability to see the good in everyone, and for .... well ..... her very un-Angel like sexiness. For all her glowy red cheeks from embarrassment, she's no prude our Mel - and shows it with teasing aplomb, even when she doesn't mean to.
The one part of the story that did throw me a little was that Mel being an Angel was no longer hidden from the demons. In the last novella she was placed in the HELL Organisation undercover so it was a bit perplexing that all of a sudden the disguises were off, so to speak.
** Slight Spoiler Ahead - sorry my App doesn't block them.(Hint, hint GR!)
For those that aren't aware, I'll be honest and say that romances in general do nothing for me - except induce cringing shudders and a need to dry retch - but I made an exception in this case because 1) it's freaking funny and 2) Oh.My.God!!! She frigging redeemed Lucifer - glowy white wings and all. 😱 Then they bumped uglies .... in a really nice way. SHIT ..... now I'm definitely glued solid to the series, which seems to be taking a step away from what I call "cosiness" and morphing into something a little deeper. I have the next book in the series downloaded to be read on my Kindle and I'm seriously waiting to see what happens in the next installment. A highly recommended read with giggles and sauciness wrapped in a modern take of good versus evil.
* This would be an excellent fantasy read for Aussies as it takes place in Perth, Western Australia. After all, one of the portals out of Hell opens up into the desert area of W.A. (Doesn't surprise me ... because ..... well .... it is hot as Hell there! 😰🔥🔥)
Holy HELL! Another hilarious offering in the Mel Goes To Hell series, and again one I could not put down. I just love Mel to bits - for her witty repartee, her ability to help her fellow demon co-workers unjudgementally, her ability to see the good in everyone, and for .... well ..... her very un-Angel like sexiness. For all her glowy red cheeks from embarrassment, she's no prude our Mel - and shows it with teasing aplomb, even when she doesn't mean to.
The one part of the story that did throw me a little was that Mel being an Angel was no longer hidden from the demons. In the last novella she was placed in the HELL Organisation undercover so it was a bit perplexing that all of a sudden the disguises were off, so to speak.
** Slight Spoiler Ahead - sorry my App doesn't block them.(Hint, hint GR!)
For those that aren't aware, I'll be honest and say that romances in general do nothing for me - except induce cringing shudders and a need to dry retch - but I made an exception in this case because 1) it's freaking funny and 2) Oh.My.God!!! She frigging redeemed Lucifer - glowy white wings and all. 😱 Then they bumped uglies .... in a really nice way. SHIT ..... now I'm definitely glued solid to the series, which seems to be taking a step away from what I call "cosiness" and morphing into something a little deeper. I have the next book in the series downloaded to be read on my Kindle and I'm seriously waiting to see what happens in the next installment. A highly recommended read with giggles and sauciness wrapped in a modern take of good versus evil.
* This would be an excellent fantasy read for Aussies as it takes place in Perth, Western Australia. After all, one of the portals out of Hell opens up into the desert area of W.A. (Doesn't surprise me ... because ..... well .... it is hot as Hell there! 😰🔥🔥)
July 5, 2019
3 'confusing' stars
This book was not so much confusing as it was me that was confused. Let me explain. When I started the first book in a series, I expected pnr but got rom-com instead. Not ideal but it was very funny and entertaining, so it was all good. When I started this book I expected rom-com but got I'm not so sure what exactly. It was like all the humor and amusement got lost somewhere between the first and the second book. There were a few funny moments, however, three hilarious scenes in a 400 pages book are not enough.
And the story was dragging. So many things happened that had no obvious purpose. I didn't even know what the point of the story is. So we have angels and demons and supposedly a battle between good and evil. Well, no. Those demons weren't evil. They were not even bad. They were only bad at making PowerPoint presentations and honestly that was their only crime. Yeah, that's the story. There's a company full of demons who does what employes do, and they like to hang together after work and are altogether nice people. Pardon, nice demons. And a fake alien invasion was thrown in the middle somewhere.
As for characters... The humor was not the only thing that got lost in this book. Luce, who was sexy, charming and flirty in the previous book, was simply pathetic. Supposedly evil Lili became zero personality incarnate and sweet, kind, little Melody Angel, who everyone thinks should be protected, turned out to be
I will give book 3 a chance because I'm curious what will happen but please let it there be at least a smidgeon of sense in there.
This book was not so much confusing as it was me that was confused. Let me explain. When I started the first book in a series, I expected pnr but got rom-com instead. Not ideal but it was very funny and entertaining, so it was all good. When I started this book I expected rom-com but got I'm not so sure what exactly. It was like all the humor and amusement got lost somewhere between the first and the second book. There were a few funny moments, however, three hilarious scenes in a 400 pages book are not enough.
And the story was dragging. So many things happened that had no obvious purpose. I didn't even know what the point of the story is. So we have angels and demons and supposedly a battle between good and evil. Well, no. Those demons weren't evil. They were not even bad. They were only bad at making PowerPoint presentations and honestly that was their only crime. Yeah, that's the story. There's a company full of demons who does what employes do, and they like to hang together after work and are altogether nice people. Pardon, nice demons. And a fake alien invasion was thrown in the middle somewhere.
As for characters... The humor was not the only thing that got lost in this book. Luce, who was sexy, charming and flirty in the previous book, was simply pathetic. Supposedly evil Lili became zero personality incarnate and sweet, kind, little Melody Angel, who everyone thinks should be protected, turned out to be
I will give book 3 a chance because I'm curious what will happen but please let it there be at least a smidgeon of sense in there.
Want to read
March 12, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (3/12/2019)! 🎁
July 12, 2017
This was so much fun to read! I laughed and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Carlton is a gifted writer and I can't wait to read more in this series.
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
September 8, 2016
Fried-Out Down Under
In the Mel Goes to Hell series, Demelza Carlton introduced the angelic Mel in Welcome to Hell, the first story in the series. Mel landed a job at Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation -- HELL.
Now, Mel's adventures continue in See You in Hell. Her mission is to infiltrate HELL and determine if Lucifer is launching a takeover bid for Western Australia. She also has to decide if the CEO of HELL is Lucifer:
"Mel recognised [the CEO's] stance as one meant to draw attention to the bulge in his pants. The implied message was clear: the pants could be unzipped for the right girl or boy, if someone played their cards right. Mel had far more experience with such a stance than Luce probably realised – for she remembered a time in Russia when it had merely meant the man was rich enough to own a spare pair of socks to stuff in his pants against the frostbiting cold. Ah, Napoleon had been stubborn and arrogant, too, she recalled, but he'd been good for intelligent conversation. He'd also owned an ample supply of socks."
During her assignment, Mel experiences many facets of corporate life. She attends boring orientations, gets stuck in mind-numbing bureaucratic rework, and views presentations from…well, you know.
Mel fends off the devilish advances of the CEO. Can she remain true to her angelic allegiance in the face of a demonic seduction?
Ms. Carlton has done a great job with her newest work. The story is entertaining and humorous. At the same time, the characters learn to look beyond stereotypes to the real angel…or demon…on the inside.
In the Mel Goes to Hell series, Demelza Carlton introduced the angelic Mel in Welcome to Hell, the first story in the series. Mel landed a job at Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation -- HELL.
Now, Mel's adventures continue in See You in Hell. Her mission is to infiltrate HELL and determine if Lucifer is launching a takeover bid for Western Australia. She also has to decide if the CEO of HELL is Lucifer:
"Mel recognised [the CEO's] stance as one meant to draw attention to the bulge in his pants. The implied message was clear: the pants could be unzipped for the right girl or boy, if someone played their cards right. Mel had far more experience with such a stance than Luce probably realised – for she remembered a time in Russia when it had merely meant the man was rich enough to own a spare pair of socks to stuff in his pants against the frostbiting cold. Ah, Napoleon had been stubborn and arrogant, too, she recalled, but he'd been good for intelligent conversation. He'd also owned an ample supply of socks."
During her assignment, Mel experiences many facets of corporate life. She attends boring orientations, gets stuck in mind-numbing bureaucratic rework, and views presentations from…well, you know.
Mel fends off the devilish advances of the CEO. Can she remain true to her angelic allegiance in the face of a demonic seduction?
Ms. Carlton has done a great job with her newest work. The story is entertaining and humorous. At the same time, the characters learn to look beyond stereotypes to the real angel…or demon…on the inside.
April 30, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love this book!! I enjoyed it immensely!! Melody Angel is a spitfire and doesn't take crap from anybody, whether it is a fellow angel or the Lord of Hell Lucifer himself. She is a "different" angel in that she is nice to her demon co-workers and she genuinely cares about them and their feelings. She is a hard worker, no matter how ridiculous the job or task is, she takes it on with a good attitude and puts in 100% until it is done. I love how she handles Luce and his smarmy advances at work. He is a grade A jerk and she doesn't let that get to her. She is the only one that can put him in his place.
I enjoyed reading this book so much. I laughed out loud at times and I really enjoyed the story. One of my all time favorite parts of the book is at the Christmas dinner. This happens:
"That was Lucifer. The infernal Lord of Hell. In perhaps the sexiest body I've ever seen him in. And you...you took his dick and wiped your wet patches with it. Are you trying to tempt him to taint you? He's the most dangerous demon there is!"
I am not going to explain because you will just have to read it for yourself to find out what is going on. Let's just say that it's not what you think and you will be laughing when you read it. I can not wait to read more about the Hell corporation and Melody Angel. I really hope there is more to Mel's story and that we get to see more of her. The ending is a surprise and I'm intrigued as to what the next book will entail. Mel is a delightful character and she needs more books. I give See You in Hell 5 books!!
I love this book!! I enjoyed it immensely!! Melody Angel is a spitfire and doesn't take crap from anybody, whether it is a fellow angel or the Lord of Hell Lucifer himself. She is a "different" angel in that she is nice to her demon co-workers and she genuinely cares about them and their feelings. She is a hard worker, no matter how ridiculous the job or task is, she takes it on with a good attitude and puts in 100% until it is done. I love how she handles Luce and his smarmy advances at work. He is a grade A jerk and she doesn't let that get to her. She is the only one that can put him in his place.
I enjoyed reading this book so much. I laughed out loud at times and I really enjoyed the story. One of my all time favorite parts of the book is at the Christmas dinner. This happens:
"That was Lucifer. The infernal Lord of Hell. In perhaps the sexiest body I've ever seen him in. And you...you took his dick and wiped your wet patches with it. Are you trying to tempt him to taint you? He's the most dangerous demon there is!"
I am not going to explain because you will just have to read it for yourself to find out what is going on. Let's just say that it's not what you think and you will be laughing when you read it. I can not wait to read more about the Hell corporation and Melody Angel. I really hope there is more to Mel's story and that we get to see more of her. The ending is a surprise and I'm intrigued as to what the next book will entail. Mel is a delightful character and she needs more books. I give See You in Hell 5 books!!
May 2, 2014
Series: Mel Goes to Hell #2
Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance, Humor
Received from: Demelza Carlton (in exchange for an honest review)
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
This is book two of the MEL GOES TO HELL trilogy. Though they do need to be read in order, I found out that this book can stand on its own. I accidently read this first and then read the first book, WELCOME TO HELL, which is actually a short-story.
Mel has accepted a position at The Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation. She needs to identify Lucifer and determine his plan for bringing Hell to Earth as has been his plan throughout millennia. Now the CEO, a demon named Luce Iblis, has decided to pursue the angelic Melody Angel. Can Mel dodge the CEO, find and defeat Lucifer, and make it out of HELL without losing her soul?
Love, Love, Loved this story. I’ve said it before, all work is HELL. Some days are worse than others. Ms. Carlton has written a story that is humorous, sexy, and unique. Perhaps we would all enjoy our own brand of Hell if it were more like The Corporation in this series. The interaction between Mel and the various demons who are her co-workers, along with a few angels also in her circle of friends, had me laughing, snorting, and sneaking a few more words of reading at every chance I could find. I am looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy. Oh, HELL! Where will she take us next?
Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance, Humor
Received from: Demelza Carlton (in exchange for an honest review)
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
This is book two of the MEL GOES TO HELL trilogy. Though they do need to be read in order, I found out that this book can stand on its own. I accidently read this first and then read the first book, WELCOME TO HELL, which is actually a short-story.
Mel has accepted a position at The Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation. She needs to identify Lucifer and determine his plan for bringing Hell to Earth as has been his plan throughout millennia. Now the CEO, a demon named Luce Iblis, has decided to pursue the angelic Melody Angel. Can Mel dodge the CEO, find and defeat Lucifer, and make it out of HELL without losing her soul?
Love, Love, Loved this story. I’ve said it before, all work is HELL. Some days are worse than others. Ms. Carlton has written a story that is humorous, sexy, and unique. Perhaps we would all enjoy our own brand of Hell if it were more like The Corporation in this series. The interaction between Mel and the various demons who are her co-workers, along with a few angels also in her circle of friends, had me laughing, snorting, and sneaking a few more words of reading at every chance I could find. I am looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy. Oh, HELL! Where will she take us next?
May 28, 2014
If you're looking for a twist in your everyday paranormal read, why not do with a feisty angel who's HELL bent on ridding the world from one evil deed after the next? Well, maybe not the world but at the very least, to learn about what dear ol' Lucifer has planned for the humans with demon minions as his aids at HELL Incorporated.
In this read, you'll find a bit of everything.
I particularly enjoyed the satire that Carlton uses and I have to state that I've laughed countless times at the wittiness of both Mel and Luce. The chemistry between the two is palpable to the point that had I had a physical copy of the book, I'd be able to feel the heat from hell off of its pages! For a world class jerk, you're going to love the lengths Luce goes to to coax Mel into giving in but that angel sure can keep up with the devil by refuting his advances.
Do they ever get together? If so, do they live happily ever after? Well, if there's one thing about Demelza Carlton, it's that she might leave you hanging to know what happens next but she never leaves you feeling without!
With that said, you can bet I'll be tuning in for the next book in this series! Until then, I'm looking for that chocolate-raspberry mousse recipe. Seems that angels and demons alike think it's orgasmic! Not sure what I'm talking about? Well... I guess you'll just have to read the book to find out!
In this read, you'll find a bit of everything.
I particularly enjoyed the satire that Carlton uses and I have to state that I've laughed countless times at the wittiness of both Mel and Luce. The chemistry between the two is palpable to the point that had I had a physical copy of the book, I'd be able to feel the heat from hell off of its pages! For a world class jerk, you're going to love the lengths Luce goes to to coax Mel into giving in but that angel sure can keep up with the devil by refuting his advances.
Do they ever get together? If so, do they live happily ever after? Well, if there's one thing about Demelza Carlton, it's that she might leave you hanging to know what happens next but she never leaves you feeling without!
With that said, you can bet I'll be tuning in for the next book in this series! Until then, I'm looking for that chocolate-raspberry mousse recipe. Seems that angels and demons alike think it's orgasmic! Not sure what I'm talking about? Well... I guess you'll just have to read the book to find out!
August 6, 2016
Well, I wasn’t expecting at all the read that I have just read. After getting use to Demelza’s writing style I actually really flippin enjoyed this romp into the world of Mel working at the offices of HELL, which is run by Luce who instantly has an attraction to her and want’s Mel on his desk and can offer her five minutes lol. Which then changes to maybe an overnight stay when she turns him down!
Mel’s character is so perfect for an angel, she’s caring, thoughtful, understanding, helpful and she ‘lights’ up the people around her. Luce is a perfect demon, he’s sexy, full of innuendo’s, could easily get slated for sexual harrasment, sees fun in most things but has this underlying deepness about him too.
I have to say the banter in this book is fun and there is one scene that absolutely cracked me up and that when Mel is taking notes about an Alien invasion. OMG how Demelza worded that whole scenario was so funny.
I kind of felt this whole book read like paranormal chick lit. It’s amazingly full of sexual innuendo’s but not one single sex scene. Ahh saying that there is definitely one saucy scene that happens but even that is done in a way that connects on an emotional level rather than it being just a sex scene as such.
I honestly did not expect to like this book as much as I did. It was a welcome light relief read and I am extremely glad I read it. I am very intrigued as to where the story is going to go next and I definitely want to read it as soon as possible.
Mel’s character is so perfect for an angel, she’s caring, thoughtful, understanding, helpful and she ‘lights’ up the people around her. Luce is a perfect demon, he’s sexy, full of innuendo’s, could easily get slated for sexual harrasment, sees fun in most things but has this underlying deepness about him too.
I have to say the banter in this book is fun and there is one scene that absolutely cracked me up and that when Mel is taking notes about an Alien invasion. OMG how Demelza worded that whole scenario was so funny.
I kind of felt this whole book read like paranormal chick lit. It’s amazingly full of sexual innuendo’s but not one single sex scene. Ahh saying that there is definitely one saucy scene that happens but even that is done in a way that connects on an emotional level rather than it being just a sex scene as such.
I honestly did not expect to like this book as much as I did. It was a welcome light relief read and I am extremely glad I read it. I am very intrigued as to where the story is going to go next and I definitely want to read it as soon as possible.
May 1, 2014
I like mythology and I hate office work. This book finally takes a poke at both of them and it's clever and cool. Great read.
May 18, 2014
Mel (Melody Angel) worked for the Helpful Angels Agency & was going to temp at the HELL Corporation. Lilith (Lili) informed/assigned her the job qualifications (orientation). Mr. Luce Iblis (CEO of Health, Environment, Life & Lands; Lord of Hell; Lucifer) was giving a presentation. Mel 1st assignment was to research rehabilitation techniques for graffiti criminals. Mephi is the CEO personal assistant.
Mel explained her job description to Raphael she does tasks for the demons. Mel meets Patrick at a conference & they went fishing.
Luce seems to have the hot’s for Mel.
It was time for the office Christmas party.
Is Lili Luce’s mistress?
Defiantly not the TV series the Office.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well bizarre mysterious written book. It was very easy to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. No grammar errors, repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great sci-fi or paranormal movie, animated cartoon, or mini TV series. Not real sure I got the whole story content so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Story Cartel)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Mel explained her job description to Raphael she does tasks for the demons. Mel meets Patrick at a conference & they went fishing.
Luce seems to have the hot’s for Mel.
It was time for the office Christmas party.
Is Lili Luce’s mistress?
Defiantly not the TV series the Office.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well bizarre mysterious written book. It was very easy to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. No grammar errors, repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great sci-fi or paranormal movie, animated cartoon, or mini TV series. Not real sure I got the whole story content so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Story Cartel)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
May 28, 2014
This book is a different take on the good vs. evil theme. When Lucifer decides that the best way to take over the world is through commerce (which really does make sense when you think about it), it is up to an angel named Mel to stop him. I doubt anything could have prepared either of them for what happened.
This book was a fairly quick read and I found the premise to be rather intriguing. The interactions between the characters seemed a bit off at times, but we're not dealing with humans which could easily explain that. I would recommend this book to paranormal romance fans even though it is not much of a romance, it still has some romantic elements to it. Also be advised that the word "hell" is used about a million times in this book.
This book was a fairly quick read and I found the premise to be rather intriguing. The interactions between the characters seemed a bit off at times, but we're not dealing with humans which could easily explain that. I would recommend this book to paranormal romance fans even though it is not much of a romance, it still has some romantic elements to it. Also be advised that the word "hell" is used about a million times in this book.
August 5, 2016
"See You in Hell" by Demelza Carlton is a light-hearted take on the battle between good and evil, in this case transferred into the world of corporations.
Angel Mel works as temp in Hell Corporation where CEO Luce says what goes. Or does he always?
Bureaucracy with demons, imps and angels - you have to love the idea. I chuckled all the way through this witty and inventive read. Mel is no typical angel and Luce is not the devil you'd expect either. Don't expect a boring formula in any way, this story is as original as it is entertaining and very enjoyable. Great fun.
Angel Mel works as temp in Hell Corporation where CEO Luce says what goes. Or does he always?
Bureaucracy with demons, imps and angels - you have to love the idea. I chuckled all the way through this witty and inventive read. Mel is no typical angel and Luce is not the devil you'd expect either. Don't expect a boring formula in any way, this story is as original as it is entertaining and very enjoyable. Great fun.
October 22, 2017
18.10.2017 - 2,5*
Na rozdíl od jedničky, která byla prostě... eh, dvojka je plná super-šílených, svým způsobem geniálních nápadů.
Autorka vzala známé koncepty, postavila je roztomile na hlavu a celou dobu se bavila.
No, není to veledílo, ale rozhodně skvělé na pobavení. :)
Na rozdíl od jedničky, která byla prostě... eh, dvojka je plná super-šílených, svým způsobem geniálních nápadů.
Autorka vzala známé koncepty, postavila je roztomile na hlavu a celou dobu se bavila.
No, není to veledílo, ale rozhodně skvělé na pobavení. :)
Read
May 23, 2014"Welcome to HELL. Can I help you?"
"Demons didn't – couldn't – love. It was against their very nature to do such a thing."
If you're one of the readers who not only read, but also look for hidden meanings between the lines, then it is likely that you will enjoy See You In Hell, even if the Goodreads ratings type with their lack of... half measures will test your thinking once again when you’ll rate the book.
Started as an undercover mission to discover the true plans (for world domination how else?) of an „Out of the Pit and managing a company.” Lucifer, the story gradually turns into a cruel satire of the life in a large corporation “full of demons in suits“, then to focus on a (sort of) love story, but without losing at any time those hidden among words meanings which I mentioned above.
The characters being demons and angels, we will have, of course, the confrontation between good and evil, light and darkness. This will be obvious initially in the interaction between demon and angel(s) colleagues and it will be proven that it can be taken to any of us, at any level, even at the bottom of the social or corporate pyramid, and that the good is not only the angels’ privilege as how we might think, but could be found as well, albeit in tiny amounts, in any creature of darkness. Thus, the author will make you change your opinion about the representatives of the two sides, main or secondary characters, depending of the point of view from which you look at them. Very briefly I would say, leaving you to discover the rest of it, that the angels may have prejudices and even taste a sin or another and the demons, whatever their age and rank, can love, the longevity of a particular couple could even elicit the envy of many... if this would not be a sin.
"Demons who still had the memory of a love that preceded their fall.”
As the story flows, the characters are changing or reveal their hidden faces and they will certainly grow sympathies or, on the contrary, resentments.
"Darkness concealing light, at a depth where most won't look. A destiny that can't be stopped, only delayed. A desire for…vindication. A broken heart that wishes to be healed. A penchant for proof, but not destruction. A soul hidden deep within ice. Yearning, yet a strong fear of pain. Loneliness and longing for…"
The author’s open mind regarding everything that is religion, apocryphal texts, mythology and literature leaves room for surprises and creates expectations.
"Angels aren't perfect, Gabi. We're just good."
The enjoyable and entertaining style and the humor that decorates the plot will make you read further, even if it is clear that you get something different from what you probably expected when reading the description. Even if you may find an apparent stagnation of the story that seems to be, at some point, lost in "bureaucratic" moments, you should continue to read because, going back to how the story turns, I can say that the change of direction to the love story takes place unnoticeably. The signs of this transformation are sprinkled among of the more or less banal everyday’s life events, but eventually they all will converge to demonstrate the idea, the hope, the desire that love conquers all. If so, could love be so strong to redeem a demon? It remains to be seen especially because the dangers are great, crucial for those involved.
"No one she knew had ever redeemed a demon – it wasn't meant to be possible."
Happy Reading and I'll "See you in HELL"!
CCAM: http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/...
"Demons didn't – couldn't – love. It was against their very nature to do such a thing."
If you're one of the readers who not only read, but also look for hidden meanings between the lines, then it is likely that you will enjoy See You In Hell, even if the Goodreads ratings type with their lack of... half measures will test your thinking once again when you’ll rate the book.
Started as an undercover mission to discover the true plans (for world domination how else?) of an „Out of the Pit and managing a company.” Lucifer, the story gradually turns into a cruel satire of the life in a large corporation “full of demons in suits“, then to focus on a (sort of) love story, but without losing at any time those hidden among words meanings which I mentioned above.
The characters being demons and angels, we will have, of course, the confrontation between good and evil, light and darkness. This will be obvious initially in the interaction between demon and angel(s) colleagues and it will be proven that it can be taken to any of us, at any level, even at the bottom of the social or corporate pyramid, and that the good is not only the angels’ privilege as how we might think, but could be found as well, albeit in tiny amounts, in any creature of darkness. Thus, the author will make you change your opinion about the representatives of the two sides, main or secondary characters, depending of the point of view from which you look at them. Very briefly I would say, leaving you to discover the rest of it, that the angels may have prejudices and even taste a sin or another and the demons, whatever their age and rank, can love, the longevity of a particular couple could even elicit the envy of many... if this would not be a sin.
"Demons who still had the memory of a love that preceded their fall.”
As the story flows, the characters are changing or reveal their hidden faces and they will certainly grow sympathies or, on the contrary, resentments.
"Darkness concealing light, at a depth where most won't look. A destiny that can't be stopped, only delayed. A desire for…vindication. A broken heart that wishes to be healed. A penchant for proof, but not destruction. A soul hidden deep within ice. Yearning, yet a strong fear of pain. Loneliness and longing for…"
The author’s open mind regarding everything that is religion, apocryphal texts, mythology and literature leaves room for surprises and creates expectations.
"Angels aren't perfect, Gabi. We're just good."
The enjoyable and entertaining style and the humor that decorates the plot will make you read further, even if it is clear that you get something different from what you probably expected when reading the description. Even if you may find an apparent stagnation of the story that seems to be, at some point, lost in "bureaucratic" moments, you should continue to read because, going back to how the story turns, I can say that the change of direction to the love story takes place unnoticeably. The signs of this transformation are sprinkled among of the more or less banal everyday’s life events, but eventually they all will converge to demonstrate the idea, the hope, the desire that love conquers all. If so, could love be so strong to redeem a demon? It remains to be seen especially because the dangers are great, crucial for those involved.
"No one she knew had ever redeemed a demon – it wasn't meant to be possible."
Happy Reading and I'll "See you in HELL"!
CCAM: http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/...
July 1, 2014
See You In Hell is an outstanding fun and sexy story of Mel’s job to find out what in the hell is going on at HELL Corporation. The writing will have you laughing at the disgusting behavior of Luce, who is the CEO of HELL, and Mel’s ability to keep him in check. Inner office politics are at work, just as in the normal world. Will she be successful or will she end up as corrupted as the ones before her?
Spoiler alert (even though I don’t believe there is anything here that would ruin Welcome To Hell for you) but it is Book II in the Mel Goes To Hell Series.
See You In Hell starts where Welcome To Hell left off.
“Congratulations on your new job. We’ll See You In Hell at nine on Monday morning.”
She was the only angel left and she was determined to take on HELL and win.
She worked for the Helpful Angels Agency doing temp jobs. She had been hired by HELL (Health, Environment, Life and Land) Corporation. She is the only angel, among all the demons. Of course, she had a target on her back. Could she keep from being corrupted? It would be hard, seeing Luce was Hot – in every way. LOL
Luce Iblis is the CEO. Most of us know him as Lucifer. Mel describes him leaning against the bar, with his lbulge show-cased, impossible to miss, like he’s God’s gift to women. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud, drawing the attention to everyone in the dentist office. It is his was of saying, “Here it is, come and get it.” Would he be chasing her around his desk next? What do you think?
In his arrogance, he was stunned that she didn’t spread her legs on his desktop when he dropped his pants.
Did Luce really have temper tantrum?. Was it always his way or no way? Is it any different in the real world? Can there be good in a demon such as Lucifer or is he all bad? Can he feel fear, loneliness, love?
Mephi is the pit bull who guards his door, deciding who gets in to see him.
The banter and innuendos between Mel and Luce are more than hilarious. She gives better than she gets.
“You got balls, angel.”
“Actually, I don’t, but we’re not going there. I don’t do demons, Luce.”
Shopping in a sex shop was creepy and funny.
“Mel choked as she spotted a dildo so big she wondered how anyone could use it for anything but decorations.
….a display of dildoes with tentacles and what looked like strange torture implements….
Mel has a sense of humor and cares about others, even when they are demons. Will she be able to win them over? She even feels sympathy for Luce, but not desire. She loves to read. ^_^
“I’ve met worse humans than some of the demons in this office.”
I loved it when Mel had the winning number for the coffee machine raffle. Can you guess what the number was?
Oral sex from Lucifer himself well, there was an offer a girl didn’t get every day, much less an angel.
Hilarious. Uproariously funny. It is writing like this that makes See You In Hell a home run to me. Batting 100% for this 5 star series. Keep up the fantastic work, D.
Joke:…Anna Nicole Smith and Princess Diana arrived at the gates of Heaven for judgment.
Heaven was full and St Peter said they only had space for one more.
St Peter said, “Well a royal flush beats a pair any day!”
I received an ebook for review in conjunction with the tour. My review is honest and unbaised, my opinions and thoughts are my own.
April 16, 2014
4 Fangs
I received this book in return for an honest review from Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock and Demelza Carlton.
In book two of the series, the book continues with Mel (Melody Angel) working at HELL corporation undercover trying to figure out why the lord of the underworld Luce (Lucifer) is running the cooperation instead of one of his highest ranked demons. Mel asked Raphael to send in one of the other angels to see if she can identify Luce as Lucifer. She does, but also tries to have Mel pulled because of how Luce continuously stares at Mel and flirts. Mel demands to stay on the assignment until she feels she is successful. Raphael begrudgingly agrees. Mel keeps working, and Luce’s last day came on fast. On his last day he pulled Mel into his office where they had a nice dinner, and he asked her to become his assistant on the road. She said no, and recommended another girl from the agency that hadn’t gotten her wings yet. He was upset, but agreed. Will Luce’s plans become known to the agency? Will that little part of his soul that shines brightly over take the darkness? Read on and see if Luce and Mel have anything coming!
I loved both books and really enjoyed the story. It’s interesting to read a different view of Lucifer and the angels. I can only imagine that angels are snobs. I loved the Christmas parties. Very fun and made me giggle. Mel defiantly struck me as a defender angel instead of the snobs of the angel which took a different prospective on what different classes of the agency were like.
Sex scene and violence, who knew stilettos could be an awesome weapon for ladies. I rate this book 18+. Romance and sort of biblical. Great read! Some errors but not enough to distract from the plot and story line.
I received this book in return for an honest review from Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock and Demelza Carlton.
In book two of the series, the book continues with Mel (Melody Angel) working at HELL corporation undercover trying to figure out why the lord of the underworld Luce (Lucifer) is running the cooperation instead of one of his highest ranked demons. Mel asked Raphael to send in one of the other angels to see if she can identify Luce as Lucifer. She does, but also tries to have Mel pulled because of how Luce continuously stares at Mel and flirts. Mel demands to stay on the assignment until she feels she is successful. Raphael begrudgingly agrees. Mel keeps working, and Luce’s last day came on fast. On his last day he pulled Mel into his office where they had a nice dinner, and he asked her to become his assistant on the road. She said no, and recommended another girl from the agency that hadn’t gotten her wings yet. He was upset, but agreed. Will Luce’s plans become known to the agency? Will that little part of his soul that shines brightly over take the darkness? Read on and see if Luce and Mel have anything coming!
I loved both books and really enjoyed the story. It’s interesting to read a different view of Lucifer and the angels. I can only imagine that angels are snobs. I loved the Christmas parties. Very fun and made me giggle. Mel defiantly struck me as a defender angel instead of the snobs of the angel which took a different prospective on what different classes of the agency were like.
Sex scene and violence, who knew stilettos could be an awesome weapon for ladies. I rate this book 18+. Romance and sort of biblical. Great read! Some errors but not enough to distract from the plot and story line.
July 18, 2014
See you in Hell
This was another Carlton masterpiece which I absolutely tore through. There is a skill in the way that the author manipulates the reader’s character preferences. At the start of the novel I thought Luce was a jerk and honestly would have crossed the room to avoid him, but by the end, he is displaying all the traits of potential boyfriend material. It takes real class to pull that off well. Luce has suddenly gone from jerk to hunk and I never saw it coming.
The portrayal of the residents of HELL as salvageable beings is entirely new and exceptionally well done. The author doesn’t make any claims that this novel is biblically accurate, but the references to life in Heaven before The Fall are insightful. I love how Mel can see the blackness of the demons’ souls but isn’t put off and I appreciated the play between Mel and Gabriel, which is indicative of real-time attitudes today towards the lost and needy. The novel isn’t a commentary on Christianity, but it would certainly make any self-respecting do-gooder cringe at times as they were forced to look in the mirror.
The novel is light-hearted and humorous but has a forceful kick in places that takes you unawares. I am definitely hanging out for the next book.
This was another Carlton masterpiece which I absolutely tore through. There is a skill in the way that the author manipulates the reader’s character preferences. At the start of the novel I thought Luce was a jerk and honestly would have crossed the room to avoid him, but by the end, he is displaying all the traits of potential boyfriend material. It takes real class to pull that off well. Luce has suddenly gone from jerk to hunk and I never saw it coming.
The portrayal of the residents of HELL as salvageable beings is entirely new and exceptionally well done. The author doesn’t make any claims that this novel is biblically accurate, but the references to life in Heaven before The Fall are insightful. I love how Mel can see the blackness of the demons’ souls but isn’t put off and I appreciated the play between Mel and Gabriel, which is indicative of real-time attitudes today towards the lost and needy. The novel isn’t a commentary on Christianity, but it would certainly make any self-respecting do-gooder cringe at times as they were forced to look in the mirror.
The novel is light-hearted and humorous but has a forceful kick in places that takes you unawares. I am definitely hanging out for the next book.
April 18, 2014
When you are a temp in an office with the name of Hell what can you expect ? Other than hearing "welcome to Hell" a hundred times a day. Well this is what angel Mel finds out.
She has to work in Hell, otherwise known as Health, Environment, Life and Lands under the CEO Luce or better known as Lucifer while trying to confirm his identity and his plans for world domination.
Watching Luce trying to seduce Mel was one of my favourite parts of the book. She shoots him down every time with a smile but that doesn't seem to stop him. Not even on Valentines day.
What I really liked about Mel was the way she didn't look down on the demons and sundry she woks with at Hell. No, she treated them just like everyone else much to the mortification of the other angels.
You will laugh a lot reading this book, you will cheer for Mel and feel for Luce. Believe me, that was surprise to me too. But by the end of the book you will love Luce.
Be sure to read Welcome to Hell first, and lucky you dear reader it's permanently free so there is no excuse.
This is a series I'm looking forward to reading more of, good thing the next book Mel goes to Hell is due out soon.
She has to work in Hell, otherwise known as Health, Environment, Life and Lands under the CEO Luce or better known as Lucifer while trying to confirm his identity and his plans for world domination.
Watching Luce trying to seduce Mel was one of my favourite parts of the book. She shoots him down every time with a smile but that doesn't seem to stop him. Not even on Valentines day.
What I really liked about Mel was the way she didn't look down on the demons and sundry she woks with at Hell. No, she treated them just like everyone else much to the mortification of the other angels.
You will laugh a lot reading this book, you will cheer for Mel and feel for Luce. Believe me, that was surprise to me too. But by the end of the book you will love Luce.
Be sure to read Welcome to Hell first, and lucky you dear reader it's permanently free so there is no excuse.
This is a series I'm looking forward to reading more of, good thing the next book Mel goes to Hell is due out soon.
May 4, 2014
Can an Angel that has been infiltrated into a corporation whose initials just happens to be HELL and surrounded with demons! I wanted to read this book because curiousity got the best of me when I saw the title and then the description. The author will not disappoint you with the world she has created, sometimes I felt that parts of it was with how we deal in our everyday jobs. This is a sweet, funny, and at often times I had my husband looking at me because I was laughing out loud at some parts. I especially enjoyed the characters, Mel is probably my favorite one because even though she is an angel she is truly unique and unlike others. She takes pity on the demons and tries to fit in, the way she handles herself very well and stands up against them is funny. And then there is her mission, little does she know faith has something in store for her when she meets Luce. Luce and Mel are seriously different in so many ways but yet you start to fall in love with these two characters. Trust me you will not regret getting this book if you love a book with humor, I can’t wait to see what book 2 has in store for us and others by this author
April 29, 2014
See you in Hell is a fun and fast read, full of humor and wit. I enjoyed the concept of the angels and demons living and working alongside the humans in normal every day life-even they care about their coffee! The author had me laughing so hard with some of the insanity. I LOVE THE OPEN FLY PRESENTATION! The story delivers an entertaining view of the life of office politics and drama beautifully. I enjoyed the transformation of Luce throughout the story. He's absolutely appalling when you first meet him but he definitely grows on you. I like Mel's independent character and that she runs on a whim-loved her in Sri Lanka. I also enjoyed the surprised unveilings she discovers that demons are different than the stereotype she held for them-they can be nice
I would definitely recommend this book if you enjoy reading light, fun humor and especially, if you understand the ins and outs of ridiculous office polices, politics and relationships. It will make you laugh.
I would definitely recommend this book if you enjoy reading light, fun humor and especially, if you understand the ins and outs of ridiculous office polices, politics and relationships. It will make you laugh.
August 31, 2016
I honestly had to read the book because of the title of the book. I read Welcome to Hell so I understood the plot for this book. Sometimes you really do feel like you are working in Hell, but Mel is really working with Demons and the Devil. If any of my co-workers read this, I am not talking about you. I swear! :-)
This book made me laugh all the way till the end! And the ending...I want to know what happens now! I am terrible about waiting. But extremely excited for the follow up book.
Demelza has made a taboo conversation into a hilarious story about the force between Heaven and Hell. How can I like Luce in the end?! It makes you feel so wrong but you can't help it.
I give this book a 4.4. Cannot wait for the follow up book!
This book made me laugh all the way till the end! And the ending...I want to know what happens now! I am terrible about waiting. But extremely excited for the follow up book.
Demelza has made a taboo conversation into a hilarious story about the force between Heaven and Hell. How can I like Luce in the end?! It makes you feel so wrong but you can't help it.
I give this book a 4.4. Cannot wait for the follow up book!
October 1, 2014
I seem to be on a roll with Demelza Carlton books. See You in Hell is the continuation of the short story Welcome to Hell. Mel is an angel, who lands a job in HELL--Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation. Luce is the CEO of HELL, and he's a bit of an obnoxious jerk. Not surprising, since he may be Lucifer himself. Mel's undercover job is to find out if Luci is indeed Lucifer, who seems to be planning a big corporate take over. She does so by being nice in an office environment filled with demons.
Like the short, I thoroughly enjoyed See You in Hell. It kept me laughing, and it's definitely satire at its best. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Comment
Like the short, I thoroughly enjoyed See You in Hell. It kept me laughing, and it's definitely satire at its best. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Comment
April 25, 2014
Really liked this book. Very funny, loved how these characters talked to one another. I loved how the author has angels and demons working together in an office sitting, that's just not something you read everyday. Mel makes Luce feel things he hasn't felt ever. This was a very unique read on Angels and Demons. I loved this book it was very well written I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
July 1, 2014
Melody Angel is sent to HELL Corp to spy on Lucifer, but things don't always go as planned. The CEO of HELL, Luce Iblis has his eye on Mel. Mel isn't like I imagined any angel to be, she's funny, smart-aleck, smart, and can get herself out of the most awkward situations. Luce isn't as totally evil as I imagined Lucifer to be either. You will have to read See You in Hell to find out. You might want to read Welcome to Hell first, but you don't have to, as this is a stand alone book.
May 8, 2014
Melody Angel is currently working as a temp at the HELL Corporation. A sheep among wolves, quite literally. Her mission is to find out what Lucifer, the Lord of the Underworld, has in mind and stop him before he takes over the world. Her main suspect is the CEO, Luce Iblis, but there's nothing that gives her solid evidence that he's Lucifer, other than his confusing aura and high position in the company. He's pretty darn hot, but she can't let that get in the way of her mission. She has to stop the Lord of the Underworld before it's too late.
Mel is absolutely adorable. She's pretty much everything you'd expect an angel to be. Kind, compassionate, loving, etc. Her personality reminded me a lot of Serena St. Clair from Where Demons Fear to Tread as they are literally almost identical. They both have this bright personality and limitless supply of love. Unlike the other angels who work at HELL, Mel actually treats her demon co-workers as if they're equal to her, as opposed to treating them like dirt. Essentially, she's pretty much the perfect angel. I thought she was okay, but after a while, it did get a tad bit annoying because everything was focused on her.
Luce on the other hand is 110% bad, but you don't really get to see much of that. I feel like we spend a huge portion of the book reading about how perfect Mel is and not enough of it learning about who LUCE is. Hello, he exists guys, don't forget about him. For the CEO and possible Lord of Hell, he doesn't get enough of that spotlight because it's all shined on Mel. Personally, I really wish we could have seen him in more action, it would have made the book a lot more fun.
There isn't much character growth in the story, but what can you expect? The characters are demons and angels, they've been around for centuries. So if you're big on getting to know your characters and bonding/growing with them, you might want to steer clear. Also, it dragged on for a bit too long. Like I mentioned before, a huge chunk of the book is spent on Mel and not a lot it is action. Another point, I feel like the ending was a bit too abrupt. You get this revelation and you're all excited because this, THIS is the moment that you've been waiting for the entire book. And then, swipe a couple of times (e-book), and the story is over? Um, I was just getting excited...
Overall, this was a pretty slow read for me. At first, I was really excited about what was going to happen because I could aspects of Where Demons Fear to Tread in the characters, and I absolutely adored that book. After reading it, I have to say that this did fall a bit short of my expectations. But, I definitely ship Luce and Mel. The bad demon lord and the perfect angel, cliched, but still a pretty darn cute couple. See You in Hell was an okay read for me and I caution those who pick it up with really high hopes for a romantic heart throb story. :)
Read my reviews at:
https://extreemeobsessed.blogspot.com
Mel is absolutely adorable. She's pretty much everything you'd expect an angel to be. Kind, compassionate, loving, etc. Her personality reminded me a lot of Serena St. Clair from Where Demons Fear to Tread as they are literally almost identical. They both have this bright personality and limitless supply of love. Unlike the other angels who work at HELL, Mel actually treats her demon co-workers as if they're equal to her, as opposed to treating them like dirt. Essentially, she's pretty much the perfect angel. I thought she was okay, but after a while, it did get a tad bit annoying because everything was focused on her.
Luce on the other hand is 110% bad, but you don't really get to see much of that. I feel like we spend a huge portion of the book reading about how perfect Mel is and not enough of it learning about who LUCE is. Hello, he exists guys, don't forget about him. For the CEO and possible Lord of Hell, he doesn't get enough of that spotlight because it's all shined on Mel. Personally, I really wish we could have seen him in more action, it would have made the book a lot more fun.
There isn't much character growth in the story, but what can you expect? The characters are demons and angels, they've been around for centuries. So if you're big on getting to know your characters and bonding/growing with them, you might want to steer clear. Also, it dragged on for a bit too long. Like I mentioned before, a huge chunk of the book is spent on Mel and not a lot it is action. Another point, I feel like the ending was a bit too abrupt. You get this revelation and you're all excited because this, THIS is the moment that you've been waiting for the entire book. And then, swipe a couple of times (e-book), and the story is over? Um, I was just getting excited...
Overall, this was a pretty slow read for me. At first, I was really excited about what was going to happen because I could aspects of Where Demons Fear to Tread in the characters, and I absolutely adored that book. After reading it, I have to say that this did fall a bit short of my expectations. But, I definitely ship Luce and Mel. The bad demon lord and the perfect angel, cliched, but still a pretty darn cute couple. See You in Hell was an okay read for me and I caution those who pick it up with really high hopes for a romantic heart throb story. :)
Read my reviews at:
https://extreemeobsessed.blogspot.com
June 24, 2014
**See this full review and more at http://bookbriefs.net**
I read See You in Hell right after I finished the short little prequel called Welcome to Hell. You certainly don't need to read Welcome to Hell first though in order to understand See You in Hell. See You in Hell starts out with Mel starting a job in the Hell Corporation, which stands for the Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation. (Welcome to Hell just showed Mel's job interview for her temp position.)
Melody Angel is an angel, working as a temp in the Hell Corporation to try and see if the rumors that Lucifer is there and planning some sort of big takeover are true. Mel thinks that the CEO, Luce Iblis could be Lucifer himself. I loved See you in Hell. It was funny as heck, well planned out and executed and ended up going in a completely different direction that I originally thought it would.
Mel is a wonderful character. She breaks all the stereotypes for angels. She is as good as they come, but she has one heck of a sense of humor on her. Angels are described in the book as prim, proper and kind of uptight. They have an air of superiority around them. But Mel is none of those things. She doesn't think she is better than anyone else and she has no problem talking to, and joking around with demons. Her co-workers have no idea what to think of her. I loved it. I think I enjoyed her sense of humor most of all. She will drop everything to help someone, is as sweet as can be, but at the same time she can hold her own in a battle of wits and dirty humor with the best of them. She is my kind of angel.
I really liked Luce's character as well. He is not as cut and dry as I expected him to be. The man has a lot of layers, and it seemed like Mel was the only one able to rattle him long enough to start peeling them back. It was awesome to see some of his more vulnerable side, that only she seemed to be able to bring out.
See you in Hell is a funny read. I really enjoyed myself while reading it. The writing has a very natural flow and the story progresses at a great pace. I can't wait to see if the author is going to write another book with this one. I could see the end as a nice stopping place, but I liked the characters so much that I want to see more of them. Especially with what happened at the end of this one. I think this story has the potential to be excellent in so many different directions.
I read See You in Hell right after I finished the short little prequel called Welcome to Hell. You certainly don't need to read Welcome to Hell first though in order to understand See You in Hell. See You in Hell starts out with Mel starting a job in the Hell Corporation, which stands for the Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation. (Welcome to Hell just showed Mel's job interview for her temp position.)
Melody Angel is an angel, working as a temp in the Hell Corporation to try and see if the rumors that Lucifer is there and planning some sort of big takeover are true. Mel thinks that the CEO, Luce Iblis could be Lucifer himself. I loved See you in Hell. It was funny as heck, well planned out and executed and ended up going in a completely different direction that I originally thought it would.
Mel is a wonderful character. She breaks all the stereotypes for angels. She is as good as they come, but she has one heck of a sense of humor on her. Angels are described in the book as prim, proper and kind of uptight. They have an air of superiority around them. But Mel is none of those things. She doesn't think she is better than anyone else and she has no problem talking to, and joking around with demons. Her co-workers have no idea what to think of her. I loved it. I think I enjoyed her sense of humor most of all. She will drop everything to help someone, is as sweet as can be, but at the same time she can hold her own in a battle of wits and dirty humor with the best of them. She is my kind of angel.
I really liked Luce's character as well. He is not as cut and dry as I expected him to be. The man has a lot of layers, and it seemed like Mel was the only one able to rattle him long enough to start peeling them back. It was awesome to see some of his more vulnerable side, that only she seemed to be able to bring out.
See you in Hell is a funny read. I really enjoyed myself while reading it. The writing has a very natural flow and the story progresses at a great pace. I can't wait to see if the author is going to write another book with this one. I could see the end as a nice stopping place, but I liked the characters so much that I want to see more of them. Especially with what happened at the end of this one. I think this story has the potential to be excellent in so many different directions.
July 24, 2014
It took me longer to settle into this franchise than it did the Ocean’s Gift series by the same author, of which I’m a big fan. But settle into it I ultimately did. This is a tongue-in-cheek look at the corporate world as we know it today, filled with nightmarish Kafkaesque red tape, oppressive mind games meant at enslaving your will in ways Mesmer would envy, to say nothing of the soul-sucking grind that accompanies the often less than satisfying if not totally meaningless day-to-day work. The military, what’s more, could learn a thing or two about psy-ops warfare from even a corporate middle management type, far less one of their CEOs, which, of course, is who our heroine is up against. So when Mel is afraid of losing her mind and her soul, trust me, she’s not alone; most readers will likely be giving a quiet nod, if not outright cheering the lambasting prose. Anyone who has spent even five minutes in corporate America will find it hard not to identify with the often too-real-for-words parody going on here.
But all the mirth directed at what is truthfully more correctly referred to today as corporate transglobal (now that Corporate America has spread across the world) is just background noise in this story, contributing to a sense of place and time. At heart, this is a romance story. And, you guessed it, the romantic story thread fundamentally asks the question, can an entirely unredemptive soul be transformed by love, even in a place like this? Can the snake turn the tables on the snake charmer? The odds are entirely against Mel, but it’s fun watching the corrosive force of love at work in a place determined to kill it not just at all costs, but with the professionalism and expertise brought to the task by Lucifer and his cleverest demons.
As to my nitpicks, I thought many of the cliffhangers were a little soft, and the first person storytelling robs us of some of the depth of character of the people she’s describing, which might well have been better appreciated by getting outside of Mel’s head and into theirs at times. Also, HELL corporation, often seems, if anything, less scary than what goes on in the real world.
Note: A pre-release copy was provided me for critique purposes by the author
But all the mirth directed at what is truthfully more correctly referred to today as corporate transglobal (now that Corporate America has spread across the world) is just background noise in this story, contributing to a sense of place and time. At heart, this is a romance story. And, you guessed it, the romantic story thread fundamentally asks the question, can an entirely unredemptive soul be transformed by love, even in a place like this? Can the snake turn the tables on the snake charmer? The odds are entirely against Mel, but it’s fun watching the corrosive force of love at work in a place determined to kill it not just at all costs, but with the professionalism and expertise brought to the task by Lucifer and his cleverest demons.
As to my nitpicks, I thought many of the cliffhangers were a little soft, and the first person storytelling robs us of some of the depth of character of the people she’s describing, which might well have been better appreciated by getting outside of Mel’s head and into theirs at times. Also, HELL corporation, often seems, if anything, less scary than what goes on in the real world.
Note: A pre-release copy was provided me for critique purposes by the author
May 3, 2014
SEE YOU IN HELL by Demelza Carlton feels more like a corporation satire than a straight-up humorous paranormal romance story. Word is that Lucifer is planning another bout for world domination via the corporate world. As the angels won't allow this to happen, Raphael sent Melody to infiltrate HELL Corporation to spy and foil Lucifer's plans. What happened instead is Lucifer and Melody fell in love, the question is, where and how does an angel and demon live their HEA?
I find the premise to be interesting but it took me a while to settle into SEE YOU IN HELL. The humor is like that TV show, The Office, there's mild politicking and butt kissing going around, as well as breaking the barriers of stereotypes and cliques. I didn't quite connect with the main characters, Melody needed to be fleshed out more while Lucifer was anything but Lucifer. Meaning, he's not broody, grumpy, intimidating or even scary, instead Lucifer was very inappropriate and quite approachable. The plot overall was humorous but it needs a bit of tweaking on some areas to enhance the emotional peaks and troughs. It ended with a conundrum which begs the question, how can Melody and Lucifer pull this love affair of? Really it's the ultimate forbidden love, The Devil is in love with an angel who won't give up her wings, how can it get messier than that?
I had a few laughs over a few scenes that were either outrageous or ridiculous from Melody's daily corporate life, demons addicted to coffee, crude corporate party jokes, to crisis situations involving aliens, a giant lobster, frogs and veterinarians. DCarlton also added a few well known characters to the mix like Lilith, Persephone, and Beelzebub among others. I do get why she used the corporate world as a stage for Hell, it does make a lot of sense and the similarities are endless, it's very tongue-in-cheek and as a former corporate slave, I related to SEE YOU IN HELL on that level [I'm a former demon].
I find the premise to be interesting but it took me a while to settle into SEE YOU IN HELL. The humor is like that TV show, The Office, there's mild politicking and butt kissing going around, as well as breaking the barriers of stereotypes and cliques. I didn't quite connect with the main characters, Melody needed to be fleshed out more while Lucifer was anything but Lucifer. Meaning, he's not broody, grumpy, intimidating or even scary, instead Lucifer was very inappropriate and quite approachable. The plot overall was humorous but it needs a bit of tweaking on some areas to enhance the emotional peaks and troughs. It ended with a conundrum which begs the question, how can Melody and Lucifer pull this love affair of? Really it's the ultimate forbidden love, The Devil is in love with an angel who won't give up her wings, how can it get messier than that?
I had a few laughs over a few scenes that were either outrageous or ridiculous from Melody's daily corporate life, demons addicted to coffee, crude corporate party jokes, to crisis situations involving aliens, a giant lobster, frogs and veterinarians. DCarlton also added a few well known characters to the mix like Lilith, Persephone, and Beelzebub among others. I do get why she used the corporate world as a stage for Hell, it does make a lot of sense and the similarities are endless, it's very tongue-in-cheek and as a former corporate slave, I related to SEE YOU IN HELL on that level [I'm a former demon].
May 28, 2014
In the Mel Goes to Hell prequel novella, Melody Angel (a.k.a. Mel) a temp from the Helpful Angels agency, landed a job at Health, Environment, Life and Lands Corporation, also known as HELL. Her assignment: Infiltrate HELL and determine if Lucifer is launching a takeover bid for Western Australia in order to bring hell to Earth.
On a surface level this book tells the story of the age old battle of light vs dark, although Demelza Carlton manages to blur the lines for us; making demons appear very approachable, and certain angels far too ruthless and callous for beings with halos and wings. But this is just as much a satirical story of the life in a large corporation: Luce Iblis; Lord Lucifer is the stereotypical CEO who treads a fine line between sexual harassment charges and “innocent” flirtation. His employees dream of better coffee, and exotic vacation spots devoid of sulphur and dry heat. (“How about a ski vacation, dear?”)
Naturally, Melody manages to light up the day for all employees at HELL corporation, much to the mortification of her fellow angels; Raphael and Gabi. The open fly office presentation, Valentine’s day gift giving and holiday pictures email stand out as some of my favorite moments…
Watching Luce trying to seduce Mel was another treat. She shoots him down every time, even on Valentines Day, but of course, Mel’s charm only spurs him on.
You’ve probably deduced already that this is a humorous read, right? The good news is that all this silliness works. But hidden among the humorous stories is a more serious question: Can demons be saved? Is anyone really un-redeemable or can love transcend old predjudice and heal old wounds.
I was surprised how much I actually liked this story, as it has some of the elements I normally dislike; angels and demons who are too human, appear far too modern for ancient, immortal beings. But like I said, Demelza made it work.
On a surface level this book tells the story of the age old battle of light vs dark, although Demelza Carlton manages to blur the lines for us; making demons appear very approachable, and certain angels far too ruthless and callous for beings with halos and wings. But this is just as much a satirical story of the life in a large corporation: Luce Iblis; Lord Lucifer is the stereotypical CEO who treads a fine line between sexual harassment charges and “innocent” flirtation. His employees dream of better coffee, and exotic vacation spots devoid of sulphur and dry heat. (“How about a ski vacation, dear?”)
Naturally, Melody manages to light up the day for all employees at HELL corporation, much to the mortification of her fellow angels; Raphael and Gabi. The open fly office presentation, Valentine’s day gift giving and holiday pictures email stand out as some of my favorite moments…
Watching Luce trying to seduce Mel was another treat. She shoots him down every time, even on Valentines Day, but of course, Mel’s charm only spurs him on.
You’ve probably deduced already that this is a humorous read, right? The good news is that all this silliness works. But hidden among the humorous stories is a more serious question: Can demons be saved? Is anyone really un-redeemable or can love transcend old predjudice and heal old wounds.
I was surprised how much I actually liked this story, as it has some of the elements I normally dislike; angels and demons who are too human, appear far too modern for ancient, immortal beings. But like I said, Demelza made it work.
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