Shannon Mae's 'A Beginner's Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures' is a delightful romp through the unexpected intersections of the mundane and the supernatural, where the ordinary life of a high school teacher collides with the extraordinary presence of a lust demon. This novel is a refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre, infused with elements of fantasy and a nuanced exploration of sexuality.

The story kicks off with Gabriel, a relatable protagonist whose life is turned upside down when he inadvertently summons Asmodeus, the Infernal King of Hell. Gabe's character is immediately engaging; he's a teacher trying to navigate the complexities of his own life while dealing with a family that is as meddlesome as it is endearing. Mae crafts Gabe with a deft hand, making him both humorous and deeply introspective. His journey of self-discovery is at the heart of the novel, and it's a journey that is as entertaining as it is enlightening.

On the other hand, Asmodeus, or Az, is a character that could easily have been reduced to a mere caricature of a demon. However, Mae imbues him with depth and charm, making him a compelling counterpart to Gabe. Az's fascination with Gabe stems from his inability to exert his usual powers of seduction, which flips the typical demon-human dynamic on its head. This inversion is one of the novel's strengths, as it allows for a more balanced exploration of their relationship.

The chemistry between Gabe and Az is electric, and Mae skillfully develops their relationship with a blend of humor and tenderness. The novel doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of sexuality, and it does so with a sensitivity that is both refreshing and necessary. Gabe's confusion about his own sexuality is handled with care, and Az's role in helping him navigate this confusion is both supportive and respectful. This exploration is one of the novel's most significant themes, and Mae handles it with a deft touch, ensuring that it never feels forced or contrived.

Mae's writing is both witty and engaging, with a narrative style that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. The dialogue is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, particularly in scenes involving Gabe's family. The meddling grandmother, in particular, is a standout character, providing both comic relief and unexpected wisdom. Mae's ability to blend humor with more serious themes is one of the novel's greatest strengths, and it ensures that the story remains both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The novel also delves into the bureaucratic underworld, adding an additional layer of complexity to the story. This aspect of the plot is both imaginative and well-executed, providing a unique backdrop for Gabe and Az's adventures. Mae's world-building is subtle yet effective, creating a setting that feels both familiar and fantastical.

In terms of character development, both Gabe and Az undergo significant growth throughout the novel. Gabe's journey of self-discovery is particularly well-handled, as he learns to embrace his identity and desires. Az, too, experiences growth, as he learns to navigate the human world and his own feelings for Gabe. This dual character development is one of the novel's highlights, as it ensures that both characters are fully realized and relatable.

Comparatively, Mae's novel stands out in the genre of romantic fantasy. While it shares similarities with other works that explore human-demon relationships, such as K.J. Charles' 'The Magpie Lord' or T.J. Klune's 'The House in the Cerulean Sea', Mae's novel distinguishes itself with its unique blend of humor, romance, and exploration of sexuality. The novel's focus on asexuality and the fluidity of sexual attraction is particularly noteworthy, as it provides representation that is often lacking in the genre.

Overall, 'A Beginner's Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures' is a delightful and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and fantasy alike. Shannon Mae has crafted a story that is both entertaining and meaningful, with characters that are sure to resonate with readers. The novel's exploration of sexuality, combined with its humor and heart, makes it a standout addition to the genre. Whether you're a fan of supernatural romances or simply looking for a story that offers both laughs and insight, this novel is well worth a read.