Book Review: Hotter than Hell by Jackie Kessler

Hotter than Hell
By Jackie Kessler
Zebra Books, 2008
Kensington Publishing

Reviewed by Maggie Grinnell

If you're looking for a romantic novel with a classic struggle between good and evil presented in a seductively new way, try Jackie Kessler's newest paranormal romance, Hotter than Hell, the latest novel in the ʽHell on Earthʼ series—and readers won’t be disappointed, as Kessler delivers more of what readers have come to expect and love.

In the beginning of Hotter than Hell, Daunuan, a seducer extraordinaire, is an unlikable character, but eventually the reader relates to his human side. He is veritably tall, dark, and handsome—and he is a soul-searcher. What woman wouldn’t succumb? Kessler has created Daun to be the kind of man most women want: romantic, seductive, passionate, one who ensures that the woman is pleased and satisfied, without thinking of his own pleasures first. However, there is a twist to his charm: after he seduces them, he takes their souls to Hell. When Daun brings a soul down to hell, Pan is always there waiting to cause trouble. Womanizing, egotistical Pan, the current Lord of Lust and the opposing personality of Daun, degrades woman by only wanting them for one thing: sex. Daun is slated to be Pan’s second-in-command, but will he do whatever it takes?

Pan tells Daun that he only has one more soul to steal. When Daun finds out his next soul is smart, pretty and seemingly immune-to-his-charms Virginia, who is intended for heaven, he is torn. Daun falls for her but knows they are not destined to have a life together. There is a struggle, complete with demons and other wretched “bad guys.” Daun and this dark cast of characters fight for the soul of Virginia. The ending comes in an unexpected way, but one that leaves the reader satisfied.



Maggie Grinnell has been writing since 1992. She writes short suspense stories and poetry. In addition to working as an Assistant Editor at The Rose & Thorn, she is a Staff Writer for Poetic Monthly and a member of SCBWI.