Review of My Roommate from Hell by Cale Dietrich
Every now and then, a book piques my interest for reasons beyond its cover or synopsis. For My Roommate from Hell, it was the promising clash of the supernatural and the all-too-human experience of college life, wrapped in the delightful pen of author Cale Dietrich. As someone who fondly recalls the quirks of campus living—with a side of nostalgia that perhaps makes me feel a tad “old”—this story felt like the perfect escapade back into the somewhat chaotic world of university.
The premise centers around Owen, who starts his university journey without his best friend. Instead, he gets Prince Zarmenus as his roommate—a hunky demon straight from the depths of hell, who is unfortunately less than ideal in terms of shared living experience. Talk about a living arrangement that could make anyone’s first semester absolute hell! What struck me was how smoothly Dietrich flips sexual norms. About a third of the way through, I found myself assuming characters’ orientations rather than setting preconceptions, a refreshing tactic that beautifully mirrors the experiences of many queer readers. It’s not often you find a book that allows you to step into another’s shoes in such a profound way.
Now, regarding Owen—my initial feelings weren’t the warmest. He came off as demanding and often failed to communicate his needs, especially considering Zarmenus was navigating human culture for the first time. It felt a bit like watching an awkward dance where neither partner quite knows the steps. I found myself rooting for Zarmenus and wishing that Owen could just be a bit more open about what he wanted. Thankfully, as the semester progressed, Owen’s character grew in ways that felt genuine and relatable, nudging me toward rooting for him by the end.
The pacing in Dietrich’s narrative is like that perfect study break: just enough tension and yearning to keep you engaged without making it feel overwhelming. The writing has a cozy, campy vibe that evokes just the right amount of warmth and nostalgia—definitely the kind of book my younger self would have devoured during those late-night study sessions.
I also adore the dynamic between Owen and his friend Ashley. Their banter and support for one another added depth to the narrative, and I only wish we could have explored that relationship more. Careful readers will appreciate the subtle nuances Dietrich employs—everything from dialogue to the tension of budding romance—that keeps the plot bubbling at a delightful pace.
If I had to highlight my favorite part, it’d definitely be the moments that made me snicker—like when Owen grapples with the absurdity of having a demon as a roommate. It’s these little gems that bring the story to life, making it relatable and downright fun.
In conclusion, My Roommate from Hell is a charming blend of young adult and new adult themes that I believe will resonate with anyone who enjoys a dash of humor while tackling deeper social themes. Whether you’re a college student navigating your own “hells,” or simply someone fondly reminiscing about their youth, this book offers a cozy retreat filled with heartwarming moments and relatable growth. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Cale Dietrich—who knows what other delightful surprises he has in store?