How Not to Raise the Dead by Rachael Chadwick reviewed: a dark paranormal rom-com with demons, tension, and irresistible chemistry.
Thanks to Blue Nose Audio for the ALC!
This story is a departure from the stories I’m used to reading from Rachael, at least, that’s what I thought at first. I’ve been reading a lot of demon and monster summoning books lately, and one thing I’ve noticed is that there is a lot of time wasted teaching the summoned entity how life on Earth works, how technology works, etc. Thankfully, this book didn’t have all that. Hell is run more like a business with levels of management and employees. Chadwick really put a ton of thought into building that world.
Eden was essentially trying to summon her recently deceased boyfriend, but instead, a demon named Malachi decided to use Eden’s ritual as a means to an impromptu vacation. This sets in motion an adventure for Malachi and Eden across Earth and Hell. I was having such a great time with the banter and adventure that I forgot I was reading a Rachael Chadwick book. Of course, she hit me with a gut punch, threw an uppercut to my face, and said, “You let your guard down, bitch.”
A story this exciting and this impactful needed the best voices, and I believe Marie Hawkins and Anthony Palmini could not have been better cast. Marie and Anthony’s voices complement each other so well. Marie’s acting was great, and she really gave unique voices to her characters. Anthony is able to use his voice to create a personality for all of the characters he portrays. I would put him in the same category as Jeff Hays, who is in my top 5 favorites. Overall, this audiobook is one of my favorites for 2026.