Katee Robert’s short story Beautiful Nightmare, part of the Scared Sexy Halloween romance collection, delivers a mix of dark humor, sensuality, and heart. It takes the classic trope of “things that go bump in the night” and flips it into something unexpectedly tender.
The story introduces Gemma, a demon in training who has been assigned the rather unimpressive task of inducing sleep paralysis in humans. For her first solo haunting, she is supposed to terrify Caleb, a pediatric doctor who also happens to be a romantic believer in the supernatural. Instead of running in fear, Caleb is fascinated by Gemma’s bubblegum pink skin, horns, and purple hair. What begins as a haunting quickly shifts into something much more intimate.
What works well
Gemma is a refreshing heroine, awkward and insecure in her role as a demon but endearing in her vulnerability. Readers will find her easy to root for as she stumbles through her mission and unexpectedly discovers connection. Caleb, on the other hand, is the quintessential golden retriever hero: warm, open, and endlessly accepting. Their chemistry is playful and steamy, but it is also layered with genuine sweetness.
The novella leans into its quirky setup and makes it work. Some readers have even compared it to a grown-up version of Monsters Inc, except instead of screams, attraction fuels the story. The reverse age gap element adds a fun twist, while the paranormal romance premise keeps the pace engaging.
Where it falls short
The biggest critique is its brevity. Just as readers settle into Gemma and Caleb’s connection, the story comes to a close. The ending suggests a happy-for-now, but many will find themselves wishing for a deeper exploration of what happens next. It is an entertaining snapshot of their romance, but it leaves you wanting a little more substance.
Final thoughts
Beautiful Nightmare is equal parts cute and spicy, offering a quick escape into a world where demons can fall for humans and a haunting can turn into a heart-warming romance. If you enjoy paranormal novellas with playful chemistry and a touch of heat, this short story will be a fun addition to your Halloween reading list.
