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A Match Made in Hell
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Expected 30 Sep 25Win a free print copy of this book!
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100 copies available
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Perfect for fans of Hannah Grace and The Dagger and the Flame, this scorching debut romantasy follows a young woman who makes a deal with the Devil to escape the underworld, only to fall for him instead.
Willow White is dead.
She’s annoyed about it. She was supposed to be graduating and turning into a responsible adult, not proving her family right when they called her a failure. Now, thanks to one tiny (if fatal) mishap, she’s landed in a dimension named Asphodel that looks suspiciously like Hell.
Determined to redeem herself, Willow makes a deal with Asphodel’s ruler, the mysterious and unfairly attractive King Sath: complete seven tasks, resist the seven sins, and he’ll let her return to her human existence. But when Sath is temptation itself, sin may be hard to resist...
Willow White is dead.
She’s annoyed about it. She was supposed to be graduating and turning into a responsible adult, not proving her family right when they called her a failure. Now, thanks to one tiny (if fatal) mishap, she’s landed in a dimension named Asphodel that looks suspiciously like Hell.
Determined to redeem herself, Willow makes a deal with Asphodel’s ruler, the mysterious and unfairly attractive King Sath: complete seven tasks, resist the seven sins, and he’ll let her return to her human existence. But when Sath is temptation itself, sin may be hard to resist...
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 11, 2025
7501 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Ingham
1book24followersCharlotte is a romance and fantasy writer from South Wales. When she's not dreaming up her latest plot twist, she can be found attempting to befriend every animal she meets (past accomplishments include hugging an alligator).
You can find her on Instagram @writesalotte.
You can find her on Instagram @writesalotte.
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April 2, 2025I am very confused. By the description, this book is clearly an adult romance (21 year old heroine to start) but it's coming from a YA publisher and is being marketed as YA. This is NOT YA. I think the book looks interesting, but it needs to come from the correct category. Women who write adult works get miscategorized as writing YA all the time as it is, we don't need publishers further muddying the water by doing stuff like this
tbr-2
June 13, 2025sexy devils.
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Thank you NetGalley and SimonTeen for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
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Thank you NetGalley and SimonTeen for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
May 14, 2025
I was able to fly through this because the writing was very basic but overall, i didnt enjoy it.
The cover, the blurb, the title, everything about this made it seem like it was going to be a fun Romantasy and in my opinion, also made it seem like there was going to be some adult content/smut, of which there is only one scene embedded in otherwise childish text. Constant use of the FMC saying “wait� because there was no way to connect their dialogues so she just makes them effectively re set and talk about something else, reaaally annoyed me. Why have i noticed that so many times!?
Anywho, it starts out funny enough with main character Willow realising that she is in fact dead and in some kind of Inbetween place. There was some promise for me here when its clear that Willow is hiding something about herself/her past that could warrant her being sent here. However this back story was revealed fairly early on and it didnt hold the depth I thought it would. I understood the drips of Mental Health issues it was meant to convey but honestly, it came across quite contrived and Willow increasingly more annoying and i wasn’t that empathetic towards her.
Coupled with how impulsive she was, i found myself rolling my eyes constantly. She is everything wrong with new FMCs lately. Shes unnecessarily bold, impulsive, rude/sarcastic and its not the endearing or relatable trait that authors seem to think it is. Why are you questioning the Devil!? Who are you!? Why do you think youre more special than everyone else here to demand anything from him!? On that note, Sathanas.
Well we find out thats not his real name but what is it!? We never find out. For the King of Asphodel (Hell), he was incredibly weak. He wasnt actually that hot for a start: standard dark hair/tan skin stuff. Hes not particularly powerful or scary and he cries WAY too often. Again, i guess it was meant to make him different and us to feel his plight later but it was just a bit boring.
Speaking of boring, the “trials�. Willow has to go through 7 temptations in order to escape hell and she gets through them way too easily. Then, for the ACOTAR stans, remember in book 1 yeah so that happens here. Then we’re given some info dump about why and who and what and when and none of it really makes sense or is cohesive enough for it to be the reason , ya know 😒. Then theres the stuff with the gates and i was just like, what!?😕😤
This is getting lengthy but needless to say i was super disappointed in this. I wanted it to be everything more than it was. Funnier, sexier, scarier even. It was just very bland and uninventive.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for the eArc as always. All thoughts are my own.
The cover, the blurb, the title, everything about this made it seem like it was going to be a fun Romantasy and in my opinion, also made it seem like there was going to be some adult content/smut, of which there is only one scene embedded in otherwise childish text. Constant use of the FMC saying “wait� because there was no way to connect their dialogues so she just makes them effectively re set and talk about something else, reaaally annoyed me. Why have i noticed that so many times!?
Anywho, it starts out funny enough with main character Willow realising that she is in fact dead and in some kind of Inbetween place. There was some promise for me here when its clear that Willow is hiding something about herself/her past that could warrant her being sent here. However this back story was revealed fairly early on and it didnt hold the depth I thought it would. I understood the drips of Mental Health issues it was meant to convey but honestly, it came across quite contrived and Willow increasingly more annoying and i wasn’t that empathetic towards her.
Coupled with how impulsive she was, i found myself rolling my eyes constantly. She is everything wrong with new FMCs lately. Shes unnecessarily bold, impulsive, rude/sarcastic and its not the endearing or relatable trait that authors seem to think it is. Why are you questioning the Devil!? Who are you!? Why do you think youre more special than everyone else here to demand anything from him!? On that note, Sathanas.
Well we find out thats not his real name but what is it!? We never find out. For the King of Asphodel (Hell), he was incredibly weak. He wasnt actually that hot for a start: standard dark hair/tan skin stuff. Hes not particularly powerful or scary and he cries WAY too often. Again, i guess it was meant to make him different and us to feel his plight later but it was just a bit boring.
Speaking of boring, the “trials�. Willow has to go through 7 temptations in order to escape hell and she gets through them way too easily. Then, for the ACOTAR stans, remember in book 1 yeah so that happens here. Then we’re given some info dump about why and who and what and when and none of it really makes sense or is cohesive enough for it to be the reason , ya know 😒. Then theres the stuff with the gates and i was just like, what!?😕😤
This is getting lengthy but needless to say i was super disappointed in this. I wanted it to be everything more than it was. Funnier, sexier, scarier even. It was just very bland and uninventive.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for the eArc as always. All thoughts are my own.
May 13, 2025
Willow very quickly finds herself sorted into Hell, and her challenges only really start there! She finds herself participating in 7 trials linked to the seven deadly sins. At first, I didn't think that I was in love with the FMC or the depth of the story, but by the time I reached the halfway mark, I found that I was invested in both the story and the character development of Willow.
A Match Made In Hell is marketed as New Adult, which felt spot on for me. Willow is only 21 and her character arc takes her from someone flawed and impulsive to someone who knows they're flawed but can exhibit control and can be better than they were. So some of the decisions she makes along the way feel right for NA, and it matches the tension and then culmination of the open door (but not overly graphic) sex scenes.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley, but this is my voluntary and honest review.
A Match Made In Hell is marketed as New Adult, which felt spot on for me. Willow is only 21 and her character arc takes her from someone flawed and impulsive to someone who knows they're flawed but can exhibit control and can be better than they were. So some of the decisions she makes along the way feel right for NA, and it matches the tension and then culmination of the open door (but not overly graphic) sex scenes.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley, but this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 14, 2025
I did enjoy the first 3/4 of this book. It wasn't anything ground breaking and was generally predictable, but it kept my attention and I related to the FMC most of the time. I appreciated how this was a story about her learning to be herself, and realizing the people around her didn't actually care about her and letting go of the pressure.
But the 77% mark is where I was really disappointed. The trials over all were just too simple and shallow. Each a poor derivative of the seven deadly sins. The final one was extra disappointing, for her to see through the bullshit other ones but not be able to think at this, and then claim that what she did was on purpose...There were so many other ways that could have gone, while also having her character development. Especially considering how murky the rules seem to be.
It didn't seem like their romance was the focus of the story to me, but it was still cute. Personally though, this shadow daddy isn't for me, I need someone a little more proactive. Or maybe I only feel that way because I had the notion he was actually supposed to be a villain, but instead was lazy.
Favourite quotes:
"I’ve gained plenty of experience ignoring the voices in my head, and these demons have got nothing on my mother."
"Too much time spent pretending to be someone else meant that the real me became unleashed in all the worst ways, unable to contain herself at the most inopportune times."
Thank-you NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK, for allowing me to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
But the 77% mark is where I was really disappointed. The trials over all were just too simple and shallow. Each a poor derivative of the seven deadly sins. The final one was extra disappointing, for her to see through the bullshit other ones but not be able to think at this, and then claim that what she did was on purpose...There were so many other ways that could have gone, while also having her character development. Especially considering how murky the rules seem to be.
It didn't seem like their romance was the focus of the story to me, but it was still cute. Personally though, this shadow daddy isn't for me, I need someone a little more proactive. Or maybe I only feel that way because I had the notion he was actually supposed to be a villain, but instead was lazy.
Favourite quotes:
"I’ve gained plenty of experience ignoring the voices in my head, and these demons have got nothing on my mother."
"Too much time spent pretending to be someone else meant that the real me became unleashed in all the worst ways, unable to contain herself at the most inopportune times."
Thank-you NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK, for allowing me to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This was a fun and easy read, with an interesting take on the afterlife. Willow is a 21 year old who finds herself dead and stuck in the in between, Asphodel. Where she agrees to face a series of challenges, each one related to a different deadly sin, to win the chance of getting free and back to Earth.
The writing style flowed well and was easy to read and I enjoyed the feistiness of Willow as a FMC. I wish there was more of a build up in Willow and Sath’s relationship, as it all seemed rushed towards the end. I enjoyed the premise of the trials but again felt like these could be dramatic and difficult.
Overall, I did like the book, I just felt parts of the story could have been developed more.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, all views are my own.
This was a fun and easy read, with an interesting take on the afterlife. Willow is a 21 year old who finds herself dead and stuck in the in between, Asphodel. Where she agrees to face a series of challenges, each one related to a different deadly sin, to win the chance of getting free and back to Earth.
The writing style flowed well and was easy to read and I enjoyed the feistiness of Willow as a FMC. I wish there was more of a build up in Willow and Sath’s relationship, as it all seemed rushed towards the end. I enjoyed the premise of the trials but again felt like these could be dramatic and difficult.
Overall, I did like the book, I just felt parts of the story could have been developed more.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, all views are my own.
April 10, 2025
Thank you netgalley and simonteen for the e-arc. All thoughts are my own. Sath…absolutely loved him. I was happy to see willow grow but also took nobody crap since the beginning. I loved the descriptions and details of the “underworld� asphodel and I’m still not over the ending!
May 14, 2025
Willow dies, and ends up in Asphodel, where she makes a deal with the Devil to complete 7 trials to try and be revived.
This was great. I really liked seeing Willow explore Asphodel throughout the book, it felt well fleshed out as a setting.
Big fan of Sath and their romance - it didn’t feel stupidly fast like a lot of book romances do. There was intrigue, then friendship, then a deeper connection, and so on. It felt very realistic and I really enjoyed that. And the icy scene near the end with the staying? Yes.
Willow is strong but flawed. She has her issues, but as a FMC I think she was well depicted.
I liked the idea of a trial for each of the seven deadly sins, and I thought they worked well within the book.
I’m pretty sure this is meant to be Adult because of the spicy scenes, but the actual plot and relationships could be sort of High/Upper YA?
Overall a really enjoyable read! Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
This was great. I really liked seeing Willow explore Asphodel throughout the book, it felt well fleshed out as a setting.
Big fan of Sath and their romance - it didn’t feel stupidly fast like a lot of book romances do. There was intrigue, then friendship, then a deeper connection, and so on. It felt very realistic and I really enjoyed that. And the icy scene near the end with the staying? Yes.
Willow is strong but flawed. She has her issues, but as a FMC I think she was well depicted.
I liked the idea of a trial for each of the seven deadly sins, and I thought they worked well within the book.
I’m pretty sure this is meant to be Adult because of the spicy scenes, but the actual plot and relationships could be sort of High/Upper YA?
Overall a really enjoyable read! Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
June 2, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this, I’m rating it 3.5-3.75 stars.
I adored the cover and the premise, and this is what drew me in to read the book. This is unique and fun, with a lighter story than I was expecting. It explores sin and second chances in a new way. Considering the gravity of what is being asked of our FMC during her ordeal I do think things were a bit too easy at points and this felt like a bit of a let down. I do think the story takes a wild turn at one point in the book though and the stakes become so much more serious and real, and this is what had me re-engaged with the book. The vibes are good and for a fun standalone with some romance and decent tension it really does the job.
I adored the cover and the premise, and this is what drew me in to read the book. This is unique and fun, with a lighter story than I was expecting. It explores sin and second chances in a new way. Considering the gravity of what is being asked of our FMC during her ordeal I do think things were a bit too easy at points and this felt like a bit of a let down. I do think the story takes a wild turn at one point in the book though and the stakes become so much more serious and real, and this is what had me re-engaged with the book. The vibes are good and for a fun standalone with some romance and decent tension it really does the job.
June 11, 2025
3.25 � thanks to Bonnier Books UK & NetGalley for the eARC. This was an easy read although I couldn’t love the premise? I felt that the reason for Willow being in Asphodel in the first place was quite weak and the fact that she constantly felt like she had to redeem herself for it felt repetitive. I also found that the ‘tasks� she did to overcome or resist sin were not difficult and so this element also felt a little flat.
However, that being said, I liked Sath as a character, and felt that his internal struggle was prominent throughout and although the reader could sense that something was amiss, it was kept well hidden what his true intentions were. I liked how their relationship was together and this gave cosy fantasy vibes. Also, the found family element in Harper & co also was a good addition to the plot that enabled Willow the power to become a protector rather than someone who needs protecting.
However, that being said, I liked Sath as a character, and felt that his internal struggle was prominent throughout and although the reader could sense that something was amiss, it was kept well hidden what his true intentions were. I liked how their relationship was together and this gave cosy fantasy vibes. Also, the found family element in Harper & co also was a good addition to the plot that enabled Willow the power to become a protector rather than someone who needs protecting.
May 25, 2025
Thank you Simon Teen for the gifted eARC. This book was cute. I enjoyed the concept over all. I do wish there was more in some areas. Specifically the trials. And the romance aspect felt like a back seat. Curious to see how the final book is but good read.
May 19, 2025
ARC review.
One of my best reads of the year. This is very different from other romantasys I have read and was actually really engaging and drew me in from the start.
So many twist and turns throughout with real character growth that all can appreciate. The fact it is a stand alone is another bonus!
One of my best reads of the year. This is very different from other romantasys I have read and was actually really engaging and drew me in from the start.
So many twist and turns throughout with real character growth that all can appreciate. The fact it is a stand alone is another bonus!
May 19, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Whilst fairly predictable, which seems an odd thing to say given the unusual premise, it was incredibly enjoyable. I adored Sath, flawed, imperfect Sath, and wouldn't hesitate to pick up another book from this author.
May 14, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me an ARC via NetGalley! This did not influence the review and all opinions are my own.
I yelled so loud when I was accepted for this book. I’d seen so many positive reviews about it and I just had a feeling it was gonna be fantastic.
Let me start by saying that initially I was hesitant about this; sometimes with YA books they can feel ‘immature� and I feel like a boomer reading them. But this one was so refreshing. It was casual, had a great flow, and it was so easy to read. I may or may not have lost some sleep staying up to read this�
The characters were so multi-dimensional and I think this was one of my favourite things about the book. Willow (FMC) battles with various different emotions in the book which I think a lot of us can relate to. We find out that it was inferred so many times that she wasn’t good enough, she was a failure, she was selfish, all things I’m sure we’ve heard from others before. And I just felt as though she was incredibly relatable throughout the book. She didn’t make any decisions that made me think ‘girl what the heck are you doing� which I’ve had before with some unrealistic main characters. She made choices that I feel I would’ve made myself. The writing style just really matched well with the plot and storyline.
The emotions this book pulled from me was nothing short of magic. I really felt the anger, guilt, betrayal and hurt along with the characters of the book, and at one point I literally cried because I felt so immersed and consumed by the feelings of the book. A lot of parts also weren’t easy to guess - there were some surprises and plot twists that I really wasn’t expecting, and I like being kept on my toes.
The friendships and relationships between characters were also explored to a good degree; there was a nice balance of interaction between characters and plot development. The spice level was perfect for me, and I feel that it worked really well as it was placed perfectly. It didn’t feel cliche, it just *worked*.
Willow, I would die for you. Like I would literally go to war for you. I love a sarcastic, outspoken and strong FMC who can fight her own battles. And the ending she got just felt perfect. And Sath, the man that you are, I adore you in so many ways.
Honestly I reallllly hope there’s a sequel to this book cause I’m really interested in seeing how Willow’s story progresses!
Rating: 5/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
I yelled so loud when I was accepted for this book. I’d seen so many positive reviews about it and I just had a feeling it was gonna be fantastic.
Let me start by saying that initially I was hesitant about this; sometimes with YA books they can feel ‘immature� and I feel like a boomer reading them. But this one was so refreshing. It was casual, had a great flow, and it was so easy to read. I may or may not have lost some sleep staying up to read this�
The characters were so multi-dimensional and I think this was one of my favourite things about the book. Willow (FMC) battles with various different emotions in the book which I think a lot of us can relate to. We find out that it was inferred so many times that she wasn’t good enough, she was a failure, she was selfish, all things I’m sure we’ve heard from others before. And I just felt as though she was incredibly relatable throughout the book. She didn’t make any decisions that made me think ‘girl what the heck are you doing� which I’ve had before with some unrealistic main characters. She made choices that I feel I would’ve made myself. The writing style just really matched well with the plot and storyline.
The emotions this book pulled from me was nothing short of magic. I really felt the anger, guilt, betrayal and hurt along with the characters of the book, and at one point I literally cried because I felt so immersed and consumed by the feelings of the book. A lot of parts also weren’t easy to guess - there were some surprises and plot twists that I really wasn’t expecting, and I like being kept on my toes.
The friendships and relationships between characters were also explored to a good degree; there was a nice balance of interaction between characters and plot development. The spice level was perfect for me, and I feel that it worked really well as it was placed perfectly. It didn’t feel cliche, it just *worked*.
Willow, I would die for you. Like I would literally go to war for you. I love a sarcastic, outspoken and strong FMC who can fight her own battles. And the ending she got just felt perfect. And Sath, the man that you are, I adore you in so many ways.
Honestly I reallllly hope there’s a sequel to this book cause I’m really interested in seeing how Willow’s story progresses!
Rating: 5/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
April 8, 2025
Willow stumbles off the mortal realm and right into the delicious forearms of the king of hell. Adamant that she shouldn't be dead, Willow strikes a deal with King Sath: He'll revive her and send her back to Earth if she completes seven tasks, corresponded to each of the seven sins. But as Willow explores Asphodel (and Sath), she starts wondering if she even wants to return to a distant boyfriend and questionable best friend.
This book is definitely geared towards Upper YA, or even adult. The character development was nicely wrapped and fits inside YA, but the romance felt a little too mature to be YA. Willow is 21, and Sath is 26 (plus 200). There are one and a half open-door scenes (kinda? Somewhat vague, but if it looks like a duck and talks like a duck...). However, this isn't a romance built on lust (though that is one of the trials). I really loved the friendship and emotional connection they built first. I'm a sucker for royal romances, especially when he's on his throne but he can't stop looking at her. Playing board games? My vice. Definitely checks off all my romance boxes.
The plot was pretty filling meal too. I loved exploring Asphodel with Willow, returning back to Earth to see what her old life has become, and watching her go through the trials. She's a relatable character, funny and strong while utterly unable to behave, and I honestly love her for that. She's not perfect, and she has to own up to it. I kinda wish we had a bit more backstory on Sath, though. He was a fascinating character, but I can't help finding him bland, just another dark, ripped, powerful male lead. He can seem very distant at times, just showing up to see Willow, yet we don't explore much of his other facets. He's still hot, though, in a multitude of ways.
Thank you to Simon Teen for the ARC! All opinions are my own.
This book is definitely geared towards Upper YA, or even adult. The character development was nicely wrapped and fits inside YA, but the romance felt a little too mature to be YA. Willow is 21, and Sath is 26 (plus 200). There are one and a half open-door scenes (kinda? Somewhat vague, but if it looks like a duck and talks like a duck...). However, this isn't a romance built on lust (though that is one of the trials). I really loved the friendship and emotional connection they built first. I'm a sucker for royal romances, especially when he's on his throne but he can't stop looking at her. Playing board games? My vice. Definitely checks off all my romance boxes.
The plot was pretty filling meal too. I loved exploring Asphodel with Willow, returning back to Earth to see what her old life has become, and watching her go through the trials. She's a relatable character, funny and strong while utterly unable to behave, and I honestly love her for that. She's not perfect, and she has to own up to it. I kinda wish we had a bit more backstory on Sath, though. He was a fascinating character, but I can't help finding him bland, just another dark, ripped, powerful male lead. He can seem very distant at times, just showing up to see Willow, yet we don't explore much of his other facets. He's still hot, though, in a multitude of ways.
Thank you to Simon Teen for the ARC! All opinions are my own.
May 20, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC!
This was a pretty fun read that's ideal for romantasy fans looking for something a little more light-hearted.
Willow wakes up in the Underworld, or what she calls Hell, after dying. She's in Asphodel - the realm between Elysium (where super good people go) and Tartarus (where really bad people go). Obviously, this is a shock, and she's confused and upset about why there are suddenly demons and other dead people around her. Even more so when those demons have no issues killing the newly dead humans. Despite that, Willow is convinced that there's been a mistake; she doesn't belong her,e and she has things she needs to finish.
Sathanus, the King of Asphodel, doesn't particularly care. Not all humans are happy to be there, and they all think there's been a mistake. Willow is adamant and makes a bargain with him. If she can resist the seven sins, she can return to Earth. The problem? Sath is very attractive, and he's bound to try to tempt her to break each sin.
In addition, there's an overarching plot about how Asphodel seems to slowly be falling apart, and the demons are getting more eager to hurt the humans populating the realm.
We get some pretty good character development with Willow. She's only 21, so she acts pretty immature at times. Despite that, you get to know her backstory and feel pretty outraged on her behalf. Some of the things she said had me saying out loud 'oh my god', but people don't realise when they're in these moments. I enjoyed seeing her grow; she started childish but grew into herself.
There wasn't too much to Sath, to be honest. He was the standard romantasy hero - broody, grumpy and impossibly handsome.
Either way, this was a fun, light read!
This was a pretty fun read that's ideal for romantasy fans looking for something a little more light-hearted.
Willow wakes up in the Underworld, or what she calls Hell, after dying. She's in Asphodel - the realm between Elysium (where super good people go) and Tartarus (where really bad people go). Obviously, this is a shock, and she's confused and upset about why there are suddenly demons and other dead people around her. Even more so when those demons have no issues killing the newly dead humans. Despite that, Willow is convinced that there's been a mistake; she doesn't belong her,e and she has things she needs to finish.
Sathanus, the King of Asphodel, doesn't particularly care. Not all humans are happy to be there, and they all think there's been a mistake. Willow is adamant and makes a bargain with him. If she can resist the seven sins, she can return to Earth. The problem? Sath is very attractive, and he's bound to try to tempt her to break each sin.
In addition, there's an overarching plot about how Asphodel seems to slowly be falling apart, and the demons are getting more eager to hurt the humans populating the realm.
We get some pretty good character development with Willow. She's only 21, so she acts pretty immature at times. Despite that, you get to know her backstory and feel pretty outraged on her behalf. Some of the things she said had me saying out loud 'oh my god', but people don't realise when they're in these moments. I enjoyed seeing her grow; she started childish but grew into herself.
There wasn't too much to Sath, to be honest. He was the standard romantasy hero - broody, grumpy and impossibly handsome.
Either way, this was a fun, light read!
May 17, 2025
Willow went from being super annoying with many of the worst traits of a modern day MFC to coming across as sympathetic - she was dealt a really bad hand, had poor mental health, terrible family, friends and boyfriend - but by the end of the book she'd found a new family all of her own. A friend she was prepared to risk it all for and a man who was still trash, but a huge step up. Which leads into our MMC. I didn't mind him crying, and I enjoyed his story and his devotion, I just found the whole set up a little off. (plus we're not technically in hell, but minor issue)
I just really wish Noah had gotten some comeuppance. He came across as abusive and while we only saw the relationship from Willow's PoV, who is not the most reliable of narrators, there is no way that relationship was anything other than toxic. Her mother was also a real piece of work.
I enjoyed the way the afterlife was set up, the different areas, the concept of a sorter, what 'life' was like for those who had passed on. I enjoyed most of the trials and everything Willow had to do to prove herself only to realise what she actually wanted to prove was something else completely.
The ending felt a little rushed, we got to the 'twist' then it raced to the end and an epilogue that felt a little shallow in comparison to the stakes that had come before.
A fiery, fun adventure that won't linger in the mind for too long, but is enjoyable while it lasts.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
I just really wish Noah had gotten some comeuppance. He came across as abusive and while we only saw the relationship from Willow's PoV, who is not the most reliable of narrators, there is no way that relationship was anything other than toxic. Her mother was also a real piece of work.
I enjoyed the way the afterlife was set up, the different areas, the concept of a sorter, what 'life' was like for those who had passed on. I enjoyed most of the trials and everything Willow had to do to prove herself only to realise what she actually wanted to prove was something else completely.
The ending felt a little rushed, we got to the 'twist' then it raced to the end and an epilogue that felt a little shallow in comparison to the stakes that had come before.
A fiery, fun adventure that won't linger in the mind for too long, but is enjoyable while it lasts.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
June 14, 2025
Mild Spoilers!
This was a really interesting take on the after life, I loved the world building and how we got introduced to so many different kinds of offerings Asphodel had. Willow had been through a lot mentally in her short life before she died and I'm glad she was able to see through them eventually; I loved the envy trial and wished that she said something to her shitty ex and ex-friend to let them know that they suck and she's better off without them but that's just the petty in me. I loved that Willow constantly pushed Sath to hang out and basically be a human, those connection moments were felt and really built up their relationship. Speaking of that, be prepared for a slow burn there, we get plenty of teasing but nothing happens till the ending bit but it was worth it, so much happens and the build up made it seamless. I also loved hoe Willow was the one with power in the end and she became such a newbie badass and Sath was just her supportive man in the end, definitely a less traveled route that was a great decision. Over all I enjoyed this and ate it up, always wanting to know what was going to happen next and how things were going to play out. Thank you to Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to read this early, that in no way has influence my thoughts or opinions on this book whatsoever.
This was a really interesting take on the after life, I loved the world building and how we got introduced to so many different kinds of offerings Asphodel had. Willow had been through a lot mentally in her short life before she died and I'm glad she was able to see through them eventually; I loved the envy trial and wished that she said something to her shitty ex and ex-friend to let them know that they suck and she's better off without them but that's just the petty in me. I loved that Willow constantly pushed Sath to hang out and basically be a human, those connection moments were felt and really built up their relationship. Speaking of that, be prepared for a slow burn there, we get plenty of teasing but nothing happens till the ending bit but it was worth it, so much happens and the build up made it seamless. I also loved hoe Willow was the one with power in the end and she became such a newbie badass and Sath was just her supportive man in the end, definitely a less traveled route that was a great decision. Over all I enjoyed this and ate it up, always wanting to know what was going to happen next and how things were going to play out. Thank you to Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to read this early, that in no way has influence my thoughts or opinions on this book whatsoever.
May 21, 2025
ARC Review � 4 Stars
A Match Made in Hell by Charlotte Ingham
This was wickedly fun!
A Match Made in Hell is a sharp, witty fantasy romance with demonic pacts, snarky banter, and a heroine who refuses to be anything less than herself—even when Hell itself is knocking at her door. When the story opens, we meet a human woman who strikes a deal with a devil, only to discover that her new demonic “partner� is far more frustrating (and infuriatingly charming) than she bargained for. Cue a reluctant alliance, plenty of fire-forged chemistry, and a whole lot of chaos.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between the two leads—it’s very much enemies-to-lovers meets reluctant partnership. There’s tension, sparks, and a surprising amount of heart underneath the sass. The worldbuilding is darkly clever, with a hellscape that’s more corporate nightmare than fire and brimstone, which made for some great satire and fresh storytelling.
While the pacing dipped slightly in the middle for me, it picked up again with high stakes and solid emotional beats by the end. And the final twist? Deliciously devilish.
If you love:
� Morally grey love interests
� Demons with a sense of humor
� Banter-fueled romance
� Urban fantasy with heart and heat
…this one’s worth making a deal for.
A Match Made in Hell by Charlotte Ingham
This was wickedly fun!
A Match Made in Hell is a sharp, witty fantasy romance with demonic pacts, snarky banter, and a heroine who refuses to be anything less than herself—even when Hell itself is knocking at her door. When the story opens, we meet a human woman who strikes a deal with a devil, only to discover that her new demonic “partner� is far more frustrating (and infuriatingly charming) than she bargained for. Cue a reluctant alliance, plenty of fire-forged chemistry, and a whole lot of chaos.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between the two leads—it’s very much enemies-to-lovers meets reluctant partnership. There’s tension, sparks, and a surprising amount of heart underneath the sass. The worldbuilding is darkly clever, with a hellscape that’s more corporate nightmare than fire and brimstone, which made for some great satire and fresh storytelling.
While the pacing dipped slightly in the middle for me, it picked up again with high stakes and solid emotional beats by the end. And the final twist? Deliciously devilish.
If you love:
� Morally grey love interests
� Demons with a sense of humor
� Banter-fueled romance
� Urban fantasy with heart and heat
…this one’s worth making a deal for.
May 5, 2025
Willow makes bad decisions. Including a drunken cliff jump that disastrously misses the ocean below. When she comes to in a dark cavern filled with demons, it’s clear that particular bad decision ended her life. Problem is, that was supposed to be her last bad decision before she straightened up and became Good Decision Willow, getting that job her mother wanted her to take and doing all the things that pleased her boyfriend so he’d marry her. She wasn’t supposed to die because of a miscalculation. She just needs more time, and she’s not going to let the fact that she’s dead in some suburb of Hell called Asphodel stop her from going back to earth and making things right.
So she makes a deal with Sath, the distractingly attractive ruler of Asphodel: if she can survive seven deadly temptations, she gets her life back. Lust is going to be a challenge, though; those smoldering glances Sath keeps giving her are making he wonder if Hell’s such a bad place after all.
In this devilishly hot tale, being bad might be the best decision Willow ever made.
So she makes a deal with Sath, the distractingly attractive ruler of Asphodel: if she can survive seven deadly temptations, she gets her life back. Lust is going to be a challenge, though; those smoldering glances Sath keeps giving her are making he wonder if Hell’s such a bad place after all.
In this devilishly hot tale, being bad might be the best decision Willow ever made.
May 26, 2025
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley for an e-arc of this book. All opinions will be my own
21 year old Willow finds herself dead in Asphodel, the in-between of Tatarus and Elysium, and immediately decides that she is not sticking around.
The Devil "Sath" presents her with 7 challenges representing the 7 deadly sins. If she passes, Willow can return to Earth, if not, she's stuck in Asphodel for good.
This was a fun, New Adult, Romantasy with a slow burn worth waiting for. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Willow and Sath, along with the platonic relationships she forms along the way. The humour was so good, especially between Willie and Sath. I was rooting for them very early on.
I also enjoyed how flawed Willow was, making her a multi dimensional character.
One thing I wish was that there was more depth to Sath and his backstory, but overall it was a fun read with an interesting magical system and twists I did not expect.
21 year old Willow finds herself dead in Asphodel, the in-between of Tatarus and Elysium, and immediately decides that she is not sticking around.
The Devil "Sath" presents her with 7 challenges representing the 7 deadly sins. If she passes, Willow can return to Earth, if not, she's stuck in Asphodel for good.
This was a fun, New Adult, Romantasy with a slow burn worth waiting for. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Willow and Sath, along with the platonic relationships she forms along the way. The humour was so good, especially between Willie and Sath. I was rooting for them very early on.
I also enjoyed how flawed Willow was, making her a multi dimensional character.
One thing I wish was that there was more depth to Sath and his backstory, but overall it was a fun read with an interesting magical system and twists I did not expect.
June 14, 2025
Willow is dead and she is not happy. Sath is the devil and in charge of where Willow ended up in the afterlife. Willow wants to go back to the living and be with her boyfriend and best friend, so she makes a deal with the devil. Survive a series of challenges based on the deadly sins and she can return to her old life. But along the way she learns her previous life may not be what she wants after all.
Willow was annoying, a lot of the time. But I still rooted for her and enjoyed her growth and strength. I think more time on the page showing the change would have elevated the story. I enjoyed Sath and would have liked more background on his past and what led him to his current position, we get a small taste, but more would have been great! Overall this was a quick and fast read, that kept me interested the whole way through and was well written.
4.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC.
Willow was annoying, a lot of the time. But I still rooted for her and enjoyed her growth and strength. I think more time on the page showing the change would have elevated the story. I enjoyed Sath and would have liked more background on his past and what led him to his current position, we get a small taste, but more would have been great! Overall this was a quick and fast read, that kept me interested the whole way through and was well written.
4.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC.
May 14, 2025
𝘽𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣’� 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜.
Willow is a stubborn, rash and all-round terrible decision maker. After a particular bad decision, Willow is dead and finds herself in Asphodel (not Hell) and at the mercy of King Sath. Sath is everything you’d expect from a fantasy/romance perception of the King of Hell - brooding, grumpy, and hot.
Sath informs Willow that he will let her leave and return to the mortal plane - IF she successfully completes seven tasks, each linked to the seven deadly sins. But is it ever truly that easy, especially when you’re making deals with the devil?
This was absolutely brimming with wit and humour and overall was just an insanely fun read, I had a really great time with this one and enjoyed Willow and Sath’s dynamic throughout the book. Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for sharing an advance copy!
Willow is a stubborn, rash and all-round terrible decision maker. After a particular bad decision, Willow is dead and finds herself in Asphodel (not Hell) and at the mercy of King Sath. Sath is everything you’d expect from a fantasy/romance perception of the King of Hell - brooding, grumpy, and hot.
Sath informs Willow that he will let her leave and return to the mortal plane - IF she successfully completes seven tasks, each linked to the seven deadly sins. But is it ever truly that easy, especially when you’re making deals with the devil?
This was absolutely brimming with wit and humour and overall was just an insanely fun read, I had a really great time with this one and enjoyed Willow and Sath’s dynamic throughout the book. Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for sharing an advance copy!
May 22, 2025
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A Match Made in Hell follows a young woman who accidentally dies and makes a deal with the devil to return to being a human—complete seven tasks and resist seven sins. This was an enjoyable, rom-com fantasy romance that was easy to read and a fun time.
I thought the author shined at creating such a unique and layered world and I loved the exploration of the seven sins as temptations used for a trial-esque situation. However I really struggled connecting with our FMC, I found her to be unlikeable and super frustrating most of the book, which was unfortunate because I loved the premise, and I think with a few characteristic tweaks this could've been a five-star read.
Overall, I gave this read three stars because while I liked the writing, the plot, and the pacing, the FMC really took me out of the story and made it difficult to move past. I definitely will try out other titles by this author and still very much recommend it as I think it could be a personal preference, and others might really connect with the FMC.
A Match Made in Hell follows a young woman who accidentally dies and makes a deal with the devil to return to being a human—complete seven tasks and resist seven sins. This was an enjoyable, rom-com fantasy romance that was easy to read and a fun time.
I thought the author shined at creating such a unique and layered world and I loved the exploration of the seven sins as temptations used for a trial-esque situation. However I really struggled connecting with our FMC, I found her to be unlikeable and super frustrating most of the book, which was unfortunate because I loved the premise, and I think with a few characteristic tweaks this could've been a five-star read.
Overall, I gave this read three stars because while I liked the writing, the plot, and the pacing, the FMC really took me out of the story and made it difficult to move past. I definitely will try out other titles by this author and still very much recommend it as I think it could be a personal preference, and others might really connect with the FMC.
May 20, 2025
I just couldn't get into this one properly, I'm not sure if it was the writing style or the way the story felt a little clunky at times but it didn't fully grasp my attention. The writing definitely feels a bit basic, I was expecting a lot more of a fun sexy read but it really wasn't anything amazing.
This reminds me a lot of For Whom The Bell Tolls by Jasea Lynn - similar prose but less execution. This one left me feeling a bit miffed, the story didn't feel like it progressed and the title gives of steamy hell romantasy vibes and I was served with a flat, disjointed universe.
I know that there are people out there that will love this book for what it is, but unfortunately I am not one of them.
This reminds me a lot of For Whom The Bell Tolls by Jasea Lynn - similar prose but less execution. This one left me feeling a bit miffed, the story didn't feel like it progressed and the title gives of steamy hell romantasy vibes and I was served with a flat, disjointed universe.
I know that there are people out there that will love this book for what it is, but unfortunately I am not one of them.
May 22, 2025
I enjoyed this book, it was fun and easy to read with a bit of spice thrown in for fun.
The writing was simple and I would have preferred much more banter and fun to counter act the ‘darker� edge.
Spoilers *
The characters were easy to like although willow seemed to get over Noah and Sasha a little too easily considering that was her whole mission the first half of the book. I enjoyed watching her relationship with Sath develop.
I liked the demon element but wanted a little more from the final scene.
Overall this was a fun romantasy read with a couple of spice scenes and a tied up ending.
The writing was simple and I would have preferred much more banter and fun to counter act the ‘darker� edge.
Spoilers *
The characters were easy to like although willow seemed to get over Noah and Sasha a little too easily considering that was her whole mission the first half of the book. I enjoyed watching her relationship with Sath develop.
I liked the demon element but wanted a little more from the final scene.
Overall this was a fun romantasy read with a couple of spice scenes and a tied up ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
If you like Kingdom of the Wicked, you’ll love this. A great read, plenty of action, plot twists and loveable characters. Willow is a great MFC who is bold and a little sassy, Sath is all kinds of devilishly goodness. A fun easy read that will keep you turning pages.
May 14, 2025
Reviewed for schoolreadinglist.org.uk
June 15, 2025
no bc Sath deserves to die fr. I hate him, no redemption
June 8, 2025
In a sea of romantasy, A MATCH MADE IN HELL � and debut author Charlotte Ingham � is one to watch in 2025. This searing, high-concept romantasy is not only a wickedly clever dance with the Devil, but also a study in nuanced characterisation. Ingham’s wry, relatable Willow is for every woman who’s ever burned beneath the label of messy or too much, and the impossibility of perfection � and triumphed anyway. As for Willow and Sath's forced proximity (emphasis on proximityyyyy) and exquisite tension? Tip: invest in a swoony fainting couch. Right now!
This is legitimately one of those books I didn't know I needed in my life, and I'm so grateful to have read it early. 🖤
This is legitimately one of those books I didn't know I needed in my life, and I'm so grateful to have read it early. 🖤
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