Charlotte Ingham’s A Match Made in Hell is a delightful romp through a fantastical realm that combines elements of romance, comedy, and a touch of the infernal. This novel is a vibrant addition to the growing genre of fantasy romcoms, and it stands out with its unique premise and engaging narrative style. For readers who have enjoyed titles like The Ex Hex and A Demon’s Guide to Wooing a Witch, Ingham’s work offers a similarly enchanting experience, but with its own distinct flavor.

The story centers around Willow, a twenty-one-year-old who finds herself in the dimension of Asphodel after a fatal mishap. This dimension, which bears a striking resemblance to hell, is ruled by the enigmatic King Sathanas, or Sath. The plot kicks off with a compelling hook: Willow must complete seven tasks, each corresponding to one of the seven deadly sins, to earn her way back to the human world. This setup not only provides a clear narrative drive but also allows for a rich exploration of themes such as temptation, redemption, and self-discovery.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character development. Willow is a relatable protagonist, embodying the struggles of young adulthood with authenticity and humor. Her journey is as much about navigating the challenges of Asphodel as it is about confronting her own insecurities and desires. Ingham crafts Willow’s character with a deft touch, balancing her flaws and strengths in a way that makes her both endearing and believable. Her growth throughout the novel is both satisfying and inspiring, as she learns to embrace her own agency and confront the temptations that threaten to derail her quest.

King Sathanas, on the other hand, is a fascinating character who embodies the concept of sin in a nuanced manner. He is not merely a one-dimensional antagonist; rather, he is a complex figure whose interactions with Willow reveal layers of depth and vulnerability. The chemistry between Willow and Sath is electric, and their evolving relationship is one of the novel’s highlights. Ingham skillfully navigates the tension between attraction and resistance, creating a dynamic that is both humorous and heartfelt.

Thematically, A Match Made in Hell delves into the nature of temptation and the human capacity for change. The seven tasks serve as a clever narrative device to explore these themes, each one challenging Willow to confront a different aspect of her character. Ingham uses these tasks to weave in moments of introspection and growth, allowing the reader to reflect on the nature of sin and redemption alongside the protagonist. The novel’s exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and accessible, making it a compelling read for a wide audience.

In terms of style, Ingham’s writing is both witty and engaging. Her use of humor is particularly effective, providing levity and charm to the narrative without undermining its emotional depth. The dialogue is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, contributing to the novel’s overall sense of fun and whimsy. Ingham’s descriptive prose brings the world of Asphodel to life, painting a vivid picture of a realm that is both fantastical and eerily familiar.

Comparatively, A Match Made in Hell shares thematic similarities with other works in the fantasy romcom genre, such as Erin Sterling’s The Ex Hex and Sarah Hawley’s A Demon’s Guide to Wooing a Witch. Like these novels, Ingham’s work blends elements of romance and fantasy with a comedic twist, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. However, Ingham’s novel distinguishes itself with its unique premise and the depth of its character development, offering a fresh take on familiar tropes.

Overall, A Match Made in Hell is a captivating and enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of fantasy, romance, and comedy alike. Charlotte Ingham has crafted a story that is both entertaining and meaningful, with characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page. The novel’s exploration of temptation and redemption is handled with both humor and heart, making it a standout entry in the genre. For those seeking a book that offers both laughter and insight, A Match Made in Hell is a match made in literary heaven.