⭐⭐⭐.5/🌶️🌶️ Charming Devil by Rebecca Kenney is book 2 in the Guilded Monsters series of interconnected standalones. Baz is an artist from a long line of artists. Dorian yearns for youth and life. Dorian seeks out Baz because she is a special kind of supernatural being whose artistic abilities which offer her subjects immortality in a way. The subject's soul is imbued into the portrait, so as long as the portrait is in tact and preserved, the subject will also be intact. But if the portrait gets damaged, so does the subject. What starts as a means to stay alive, turns into something more as Dorian attempts to wear down Baz, and convince her to go against her beliefs and paint his portrait.

🌹Only one bed
🌹Urban fantasy retelling
🌹Grumpy, quirky FMC
🌹Spicy
🌹Addiction rep
🌹LOTR references 😂

3.5 Stars. I read Beautiful VIllain by Kenney last year and had so much fun with the concept of a Gatsby retelling with Vampires. She seems to have done it again with this gothic retelling of the Picture of Dorian Gray. We follow Dorian, who has lived the past few centuries by channeling all of his bad deeds into his portrait, but the portrait is disintegrating, so he must track down the latest descendant of the original painting and convince them to do it again. Baz is a struggling artist with a secret when Dorian shows up at her doorstep promising her the world in exchange for a new magical portrait, but she isn't going to let him have it that easily. I love how Baz makes Dorian prove he is worthy of his immortality, and Dorian teaches Baz to let go and live. I also love that this was built into the world of the Gatsby vampires, building off the world's secrets. I can't wait to see what we learn in the next book, which I believe is a Wuthering Heights retelling!

Rebecca Kenney was an author I tried out in 2024 with Beautiful Villian. It ended up being one of my favorite books of last year.

When I heard she was releasing another book in the Gilded Monsters series, I was here for it and was so excited to pick up Charming Devil. Let me start by saying that this is a retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray.

If you’ve read The Picture of Dorian Gray, you might realize how everything is connected but as someone who hasn’t read that, it still made sense. Basically, you don’t have to read The Picture of Dorian Gray before reading Charming Devil unless you want more context.

With that being said, I’d like to thank Sourcebooks Casablanca for putting this one on my radar so I can share my thoughts and feelings with all of you.

Charming Devil is Rebecca Kenney’s take on The Picture of Dorian Grey. Given how she retold The Great Gatsby, I was here for it. This story follows Baz who moves into her aunt’s house upon her death. She’s mostly just floating through life until she ends up meeting Dorian and from there, her life becomes a rollercoaster.

With a title like Charming Devil, you can probably imagine just how Dorian is. He’s an influencer who is looking to party, have fun, and generally not care. If you’ve read the classic, you’ll know why he acts like that. Honestly, I wasn’t loving Dorian’s character at first but as the story went on, I came to know and appreciate who he was and why he made the choices he did.

Baz was also an interesting character who had a tragic life but still found a way to channel her feelings into her art. Baz has such a complicated relationship with her art and it’s fascinating to see how everything is woven together. The same can be said about her relationship with Dorian as these two were slightly toxic for each but it worked.

Once these two finally admitted their feelings and acted on it, it felt like my Kindle was going to catch on fire. Rebecca Kenney made sure you knew how much chemistry these two had. If there’s one thing this author’s going to do, it’s try to make you blush. She also doesn’t shy away from adding a plot and making you want to keep reading.

Whether you’ve read Beautiful Villain or not, I think Charming Devil is a great one to pick up, especially in the colder months. It’s the perfect book to read while snuggled up under a blanket and enjoying being indoors. Once again, I think that Rebecca Kenney is going to end up writing one of my favorite reads of the year again.

As a huge fan of the original Picture of Dorian Gray, this continuation of Dorian’s story was absolute perfection, in my opinion. From the writing itself to characters to setting and dark atmospheric visuals….it was everything I needed to feel as if homage was paid to the original work by Oscar Wilde while still being an unique work in a realm of frequently tapped ideas.

Absolutely captivating! I could put this book down! From start to finish it sucks you in and makes you crave more.

✨A fantastic twist on the Dorian Gray classic that brings supernatural and natural themes woven into a story of intrigue, folklore that takes place in a modern setting.

✨Dorian is portrayal in this story is so unique that you hate him love him at the same time. His complexity to human emotions is fascinating to see.

✨I love Rebecca's take on Dorian, she carefully weaves in folkloric and religious undertones to his moral values and understanding of what makes people, well people.

✨Baz has her strong beliefs and is stunned when she encounters Dorian and his callous way of processing his sentiments in his everyday life. She brings him that much needed human credential to make him relatable to the modern world while dealing with the supernatural.

✨I love when authors mention their characters and/or have a crossover from past books and was happy to see her do it here!

✨I absolutely enjoyed this story and if you love classics with a twist and a dash of spice, then this Is for you!

✨Thank you @NetGalley and Rebecca for the ARC!

Baz is an artist who refuses to paint portraits. Dorian Gray is not used to being told no and is determined that he can change her mind. Because he doesn't have an alternative. The painting that holds his soul and has kept him alive despite a century and a half of wild excess is beginning to fall apart. And Baz happens to be a direct descendent of the man who painted the original portrait, and she has the same gift. Something strange is happening around Baz, something dangerous and deadly. Can Dorian keep her safe?

Read if you like:
-Irish Folklore
-Mysteries
-Morally Grey MMC
-Queer Rep
-Retellings

Rebecca has a gift for retellings. I would love to get a look inside her mind because she manages to create something original and unique while somehow including just enough of the original to be familiar. I enjoyed that she connected this world to Beautiful Villian. Dorian was really a charming devil. I loved the push and pull Baz felt when it came to him. The mysterious dark occurrences were also a great subplot and kept me guessing until the very end.

Charming Devil can be read as a standalone, but I'm also really excited to see where she takes this series as a whole.

The story follows Dorian Gray as he seeks redemption through Baz, a reluctant and gifted painter with a haunted past. Their fiery chemistry is underscored by a web of dangerous magic and moral complexity, making the stakes both emotional and deadly. With lush prose, rich character dynamics, and an edgy, magical twist, this deluxe edition offers readers a uniquely addictive take on an enduring classic. Perfect for fans of dark romance and gothic fantasy.

I enjoyed this one more than i did the first and in
I’m glad. One of the things i like about retellings is the fact that i get to learn more about mythology that i never knew. This is a Dorian retelling and i had no idea what to expect but i liked it and the lore behind it. We have the fmc who is an upcoming painter with magic so she doesn’t paint portraits and people. The mmc is this bisexual immortal being whose life span is dependent on a portrait. When the portrait starts to deteriorate he goes to the fmc to try to get her to paint him another one of himself.

I thought the romance was and progressed well, yes they are attracted to each other which of course since the mmc us like the most beautiful man in the world 😂. I liked how they were working to find out the history between the painting and the magic in the fmc. I also liked that the fmc did not agree to the deal and the conversations on immortality that she forced the mmc to have. It really helped to show his character development towards the end. Overall a cute and steamy retelling that was not too long. Thanks to sourcebooks Casablanca for the arc!

I enjoyed this book and would give it 4.5 stars. I enjoyed the writing style and this retelling of Dorian Gray. There was depth to the lead character and her conflict around her muse powers was tangible. The character development within Dorian was great and kept you undecided about whether he was redeemable or not. There was an element of social commentary around age which was interesting as well as a good level of spice and romance. The mythology of the muse powers and the mysterious supernatural beings in the book gave a unique edge and I look forward to seeing how this develops in future books. The ending, whilst somewhat predictable, was still climatic and satisfying. I would recommend this book to others and would read a second installment.

⭐️3.5 🌶️2
I really loved aspects of this book and thought that others could use some work. It was definitely a slow start and I thought I was stuck in an intro for a very long time. The actual story for me didn’t really seem to start or really come together until the last 15% or so. I think that was intentional, but I needed a bit more earlier on to really stay engaged in the characters and story line.

🌹retelling
🌹only you can save me
🌹only one bed
🌹dislike to lovers
🌹supernatural power

Baz:
“I’m not really a coaster girl” ??? This part was odd. She started out trying to be the “I’m not like other girls” girl, but she did grow on me. I ended up liking her at the end.

Dorian: I really didn’t care for Dorian the whole time and he was kind of a little b*tch. Even at the end I still didn’t think there had been enough proof that he was worth it or even a decent character. And I say this being someone who prefers the MMC to be morally grey or black.
I also don’t like it when the characters smoke, gives me the ick.

I do love a retelling though and, while I’m not an expert in the original story, this one seemed pretty good!

Thank you NetGalley and Rebecca Kenney for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Normally I like to read book series in order, but while Gatsby was mentioned in Charming Devil a few times, this can absolutely be read as a stand alone. Dorian Gray, yes that Dorian Gray, is all about a life of excess, and why wouldn't he be? His soul is trapped inside a painting with every negative effect happening to that painting, not to Dorian. One morning however, he notices that his painting has a small hole and is starting to decay.
Lucky for him, the ancestor of the original painter has the exact same ability. Unlucky for him, she made a vow to NEVER paint portraits after crating a crayon drawing of her father and accidently killing him. The rest of the story focuses on Dorian trying to will over Baz (fmc) and getting her to agree to remaking his picture so he can continue to live a life of excess, free from consequences and the effects of aging. With a bit of mysticism thrown in, and some Irish folklore, this was overall a quick, interesting read. The only caveat I have is the repeated build up, then sudden drop off of the "monster" that is out to get Baz. It does come to a half conclusion, but I do think that this was a build up for later books in the series. And because I enjoy most retellings, I do plan on going back to read the first book.

Charming Devil is a paranormal retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray, where Dorian, instead of destroying the painting and dying, continues on, living multiple lifetimes of debauchery.

But after more than a century of excesses, the portrait has absorbed as much of his destructive habits as it can handle and it is beginning to decay. In desperation, Dorian searches for the last remaining descendant of the original painter, in hopes that he can commission a new, fresh portrait and continue living.

Baz Allard is an artist who happens to be exactly who Dorian is looking for. Unfortunately for him, she refuses to ever create a portrait of a real person. In desperation he offers her tons of money and a period of time living large in his dime while he tries to convince her. She agrees to his gambit, thinking she can convince him to finally accept his mortality. But Dorian and Baz are both stubborn to a fault...

Over the course of the story, Rebecca manages to make Dorian, who starts out as a handsome, spoiled brat, into an fascinating love interest, and I can't wait to see how the creepy, paranormal subplot will continue through future books in the series.

And to the people who have preemptively written off this retelling because "it's not queer because Baz is a woman", ditch your bi-phobia, because Dorian is still queer AF.

Huge fan of this author but ugh I was underwhelmed, I love Dorian G retellings and this just didn’t do it for me. Poor character development.

Charming Devil is Dorian Gray like you’ve never seen him before!

At its core, Charming Devil is a bold and unique retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray, but Rebecca Kenney takes plenty of creative liberties that make this version a fresh and exciting experience. If you’ve read Beautiful Villain, you already know the kind of imaginative storytelling to expect. While Charming Devil stands alone, fans of Kenney’s other works will appreciate the fun extras sprinkled throughout.

Dorian Gray in this story is exactly what you’d hope for: a man with an insatiable appetite for debauchery and indulgence. Initially, I wondered how he would fare as a romantic lead, but Rebecca Kenney worked her magic, turning a seemingly one-dimensional character into someone complex and evolving. Watching Dorian transform into a multi-faceted, relatable figure was nothing short of remarkable.

The plot evolves alongside the characters, blending the familiar beats of The Picture of Dorian Gray with unexpected paranormal twists. Hidden abilities, tragic backstories, and surprising villains make for an engaging narrative. The paranormal elements are woven seamlessly into the story without overpowering it, so even readers who don’t usually gravitate toward supernatural tales will find plenty to enjoy. For those who do, the rich history and Charleston, SC setting add layers of intrigue and atmosphere.

One notable aspect is the ending, which comes together suddenly and with an explosive intensity. While it may feel abrupt, it doesn’t detract from the story’s overall impact. The last 60 pages are a whirlwind, packed with unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. It’s a thrill ride from start to finish, and you won’t know what to expect as the story hurtles toward its conclusion.

Charming Devil is a must-read for fans of the Gilded Monsters series and anyone looking for a fresh, captivating take on a classic tale. Rebecca Kenney delivers yet again, proving her talent for reimagining timeless stories with creativity and flair. Don’t miss this exhilarating addition to the series!

As a fan of the first book in the series, I’m greatly enjoying the supernatural twist to these classic stories. That being said, the picture of Dorian Gray was already a fairly supernatural story to begin with, but modernizing and adding new elements to the story really made this a fresh and interesting take. I liked the characters but I didn’t really find that the two main characters had that much chemistry together, it just kind of felt like lust and that’s it, though individually they were actually pretty good characters. Regardless it was a fun and enjoyable read!

This story was a little better than the first. And yes you can totally read this as a standalone.

The story feels like it’s stuck on a race track and it keeps going around and around. You think something big is going to happen… then it doesn’t. Bringing Gatsby back in it was just weird though. I think if he was left out it would’ve been a lot better.

Overall it was a fun distraction and palette cleanser but it’s not the best book out there for me unfortunately.

3-Star Review

I’ll start with this: this book is significantly better than the first one. But that’s faint praise considering how rough the first book was. I went into this one hoping for a big improvement, and while it’s definitely a step up, it’s still stuck in middle-tier territory for me.

The biggest issue here is the pacing. The plot feels like it’s going in circles—a merry-go-round of repetitive beats that never quite builds to anything satisfying. There’s potential in the premise, but the execution feels safe, predictable, and unwilling to take the risks that would make it stand out. It’s easy enough to read, but I kept waiting for something bold to happen. Spoiler: it doesn’t.

And then there’s Gatsby. Why bring him back? The inclusion feels forced and unnecessary, dragging down a story that’s already fighting to stay afloat. It’s frustrating because without that baggage, this book could have been a lot stronger. As it stands, it feels like the characters—and the narrative—are shackled to choices made in the first book, rather than given the freedom to grow.

There are glimmers of something great here. The writing is smoother, the characters more engaging, and the world-building more solid than before. But there’s still a lack of forward momentum and a tendency to fall back on familiar tropes. For readers who loved the first book, this will probably be a hit. For me, it’s proof that the series has potential—but isn’t quite reaching it yet.

Charming Devil reimagines a literary classic The Picture of Dorian Gray in a contemporary setting. Dorian Gray is a wealthy influencer, indulging in excess and evading consequences—his portrait absorbs the toll of his choices, leaving his flawless exterior intact. Opposite him is Baz, a no-nonsense artist haunted by a tragic past. Bound by a vow to never paint another portrait after her magical talent destroyed someone she loved, she’s thrust into a moral quandary when Dorian seeks her help to preserve his eternal life.

While the premise is intriguing, it takes time to truly connect with the characters. Dorian remains self-absorbed and vain, yet undeniably complex beneath his polished façade. Baz, determined to peel back Dorian’s layers, is compelling but feels only lightly explored. Her internal conflict—a tug-of-war between honoring her vow and succumbing to Dorian’s seductive pleas—is central to the story, though its repetitiveness at times overshadows the narrative’s emotional depth.

Kenney captures the sharp edges of Dorian’s character, portraying his hedonism and callousness without sanitizing him for the sake of likability. Baz, too, is flawed and raw, her imperfections an intriguing counterpart to Dorian’s lavish chaos. The spark between the two is undeniable from the very first encounter, even as their motives clash.

That said, the book’s pacing hits a sluggish middle where the emotional tension between Baz and Dorian overshadows key plot points. However, the story regains its momentum toward the end, leaving readers anxiously awaiting Baz’s ultimate decision. Will she break her vow to grant Dorian’s desperate wish, or will she stay true to her resolve? A sudden surge in magical and mystical elements not only enrich the story’s climax but also set the stage for a potential fascinating continuation of Baz and Dorian’s journey.

Charming Devil offers a blend of romance, magic, and moral intrigue that keeps readers hooked. This book delivers for fans of morally gray characters, reimagined classics, and slow-burn dark romance.

Thank you Netgalley for this advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review.

Step into a seductive and deadly world where beauty hides dangerous secrets. Charming Devil is a spicy New Adult retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray, with a magical twist that will have you hooked from the first page.

🖌 Plot Highlights:
• Dorian Gray’s painting is decaying, threatening his eternal youth and beauty. Desperate, he seeks Baz, a talented artist descended from his first love.
• Baz, haunted by the devastating consequences of her gift, swears never to paint another likeness. But Dorian’s allure might just tempt her to break her vow.
• As dark magic stirs, both Baz and Dorian find themselves caught in a web of passion, danger, and power.

🔥 Why You’ll Love It:
• A fresh twist on a classic: This retelling breathes new life into The Picture of Dorian Gray with magic, romance, and suspense.
• Complex characters: Dorian’s decadence meets Baz’s artistic struggles in a clash of wills and desires.
• Dark and seductive vibes: A gothic setting, forbidden attraction, and deadly stakes make this a page-turner you won’t put down.
• Special deluxe edition: With stained edges, character art, and bonus features, it’s a must-have for collectors.

📖 Perfect For Fans Of:
• Dark fantasy and magical retellings
• Complex anti-heroes and fierce heroines
• Stories with a blend of passion and peril
• Books like The Cruel Prince or A Court of Thorns and Roses

💬 Have you read Charming Devil yet? What’s your favorite dark retelling? Drop your thoughts below!

✨ #CharmingDevil #RebeccaKenney #DorianGrayRetelling #NewAdultFantasy #DarkRomance #GothicFantasy #BookstagramReads #MustReadBooks #MagicAndPassion #FantasyLovers #RetellingDoneRight