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The Fallen #1
As Above
He lowered his lips to Riley’s ear. “All you have to do is be a good little pet.”
When Riley’s secret friend, Eren, vanishes from the woods where he hides, Riley starts to think he imagined him. After all, what little boy would have fangs, a red, pointed tail like a devil, and no need for food?
Over thirty years later, Riley is taken prisoner in the Fallen realm where angels and demons have been locked in a war for centuries. The demons keep humans and cambions as slaves to fuel their magic, there’s no way out, and their horned, winged leader, Lord Erebus, looks like Eren.
At the age of forty, Lord Erebus is foul, lethal, and has a taste for dark fun. He denies their past friendship and has no time for the imaginings of a slave. All he needs is his army, his scythe, and the energy from his pet, but some glimmer of the old him is still buried under the cruelty. Even if he can’t remember their past, Riley does, and maybe they can have something more even though no one else has ever earned the affection of the demon lord.
But as he uncovers more secrets about himself and Eren, Riley will learn that it never pays to love and submit to a demon.
For fans of Ariana Nash's Primal Sin and The Prince's Assassin, and Alethea Faust's S*x Wizards, this MM demon angel romance contains:
Kinky, s*x-based energy magic system
Master/sl@ve relationship
Touch him and be unalived vibe
Magic e-stim k!nk
K!nky tail action
When Riley’s secret friend, Eren, vanishes from the woods where he hides, Riley starts to think he imagined him. After all, what little boy would have fangs, a red, pointed tail like a devil, and no need for food?
Over thirty years later, Riley is taken prisoner in the Fallen realm where angels and demons have been locked in a war for centuries. The demons keep humans and cambions as slaves to fuel their magic, there’s no way out, and their horned, winged leader, Lord Erebus, looks like Eren.
At the age of forty, Lord Erebus is foul, lethal, and has a taste for dark fun. He denies their past friendship and has no time for the imaginings of a slave. All he needs is his army, his scythe, and the energy from his pet, but some glimmer of the old him is still buried under the cruelty. Even if he can’t remember their past, Riley does, and maybe they can have something more even though no one else has ever earned the affection of the demon lord.
But as he uncovers more secrets about himself and Eren, Riley will learn that it never pays to love and submit to a demon.
For fans of Ariana Nash's Primal Sin and The Prince's Assassin, and Alethea Faust's S*x Wizards, this MM demon angel romance contains:
Kinky, s*x-based energy magic system
Master/sl@ve relationship
Touch him and be unalived vibe
Magic e-stim k!nk
K!nky tail action
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2023
115 people are currently reading
1652 people want to read
About the author
Julie Mannino
56 books143 followersAuthor of the Alternate Earth Novels
Ace 🖤🤍💜
Autistic
Proud wog
Paragirl
I primarily write MM and fantasy/paranormal romance. If you like a trope or certain type, I've either got it or I'm working on it😊
Follow me on Bookbub
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/julie...
Newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/4099bb2054c1/alter...
Ace 🖤🤍💜
Autistic
Proud wog
Paragirl
I primarily write MM and fantasy/paranormal romance. If you like a trope or certain type, I've either got it or I'm working on it😊
Follow me on Bookbub
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/julie...
Newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/4099bb2054c1/alter...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 7, 2023
This is dark. It's well-written and the suspense kept me reading well into the night. The relationship between the two main characters is very interesting but also borders on non-con in some scenes and that is just not my cup of tea. The author delicately handled these scenes though which I am grateful for. Definitely read the trigger warnings if you consider reading this.
July 1, 2023
As Above by Julie Mannino: Dark Adult MM Erotica. Demons and Angels. BDSM. Slave/master. Single Third Person POV.
If you like Dark MM demon/Angel erotica fantasy with explicit kinky BDSM, master/slave relationships, a sex-based magic system, political and war intrigue such as power plays, and a likeable protagonist paired with a morally grey cast and society, you will like this.
To be clear, for me, it's four stars, because I don't like dark fantasy, but this was so amazingly well-written that for anyone who's used to this genre, this will be a 4 to 5 stars for you.
The story follows Riley a human deviant who is kidnapped by the demons and is sold as a sex slave by a trader to his lord, but instead of thanking the trader who was a bad person, this Demon lord decides to order them raped and killed to create magic that he can then feed on. See Demons feed on magic and magic in this world is created by sexual activities and torture. However, Riley isn't as worried, because when he looks into the eyes of this demon lord, he recognises him. Eren was his "imaginary" childhood friend who went missing, but Eren quickly denies knowing him and Riley doesn't know why he doesn't remember him. But just because he knows him, doesn't mean he's willing to bend over and thus ensues the power play between them and the gradual trust and boundaries each of them set with each other.
First up, if you are at all sensitive to rape, this might not be the one for you. There are two almost rape scenes, and raping sex slaves and criminals is a common part of demon society and mentioned a lot. When the main character who asked why it wasn't banned, our morally grey love interest said it would be like banning religion. The society in which this takes place is messed up. There is no other way to put it, but everything immoral is addressed by the main characters and given the world building it makes sense why this society has evolved like it has. It is not thrown in there for shock value, some cheap story device, or without purpose.
The society is based around a magic system where sexual energies and torture create magic that angels and demons can feed off of. Each type of activity creates a certain amount of magic and each has a different flavour. No matter what it or how evil it is, none of the tastes are unpleasant tasting. Consequently, you have people growing up in a world that encourages them to harm others to get magic and rise in the ranks. It's very plausible and easy to understand why the society is morally bankrupt. However, they have some standards. They don't believe in enslaving their own (just humans who like deviant practices), they are heavily against demon on demon rape, female demons are respected and cherished a lot because there aren't many of them, demon children are cherished and protected as well, and the souls they torture for magic are all dead humans who're repeat rapists or destined for true Hell anyway. Also, evil behavour seen in on-page is not excused or justified by the main character, Riley (and Eren at times) are firmly against many aspects of demon and angel society. So while they have standards, but you can see why this is Dark fantasy.
I don't want to spoil, but the first 1/4 of the story, Eren and Riley is very rocky and abusive, but Eren grows kinder after choosing not rape Riley. Having read the second book I'll tell you there is a genuine reason why he treats people badly, but I'm not telling you.
What I liked about this though was it doesn't generalise, and every character is different. I've read books where the society consist of individuals that all share the same beliefs and preferences (i.e. everyone is LGBTQ+ and no one is straight), and I think I went into this with assumptions. Usually with erotic romance, every character liked or wants sex. That is not the case with this book. Not every demon likes sex. There are what's called Nosexuals who don't want to have sex and generally speaking those belief are respected in Demon Society. I really like this because not many romance books address that there are people who don't like sex, and it's good to see representation. Overall, every character the protagonist interacts with or over hears feels like a unique person. It's a realistic diversity of habits, preferences and opinions.
Here is a list of things I liked:
- The magic system. It was vivid, easy to understand, and original.
- There were funny conversations with secondary characters that provided comic relief throughout
- It had unexpected twists and turns. Some were fun and exciting, others with tense and stressful and then a few were plot twists.
- The complex and diverse, though dark, culture of demons was also well-thought out
- the war and political intrigue through
- and the unpredictability of the plot.
I wanted to read some fantasy sex scenes so I was looking at erotica goodreads lists where most books were 2 to 3 stars and out of the line stood out this 4.2 star one and I decided why not. I gave it a go, and its one of the most interesting books I've read. I'm very impressed with Julie Mannino's writing. I think this will appeal to the right audience given the triggers present.
In the end, I came for the sex scenes, but stayed for the story.
How much I liked it? 4-5 stars
Ideas - World building: 5 Stars
Ideas - Plot: 5 Stars
Character Depth: 5 Stars
Character interactions: Extensive
Animal Characterisation: Standard
Non-human body language: 4 Stars
Warnings: Explicit consensual sex scenes. Torture. Graphic Violence. Sexual Assault. Themes of Rape. Slavery. BDSM.
Execution (Proofreading): 4.9 Stars
If you like Dark MM demon/Angel erotica fantasy with explicit kinky BDSM, master/slave relationships, a sex-based magic system, political and war intrigue such as power plays, and a likeable protagonist paired with a morally grey cast and society, you will like this.
To be clear, for me, it's four stars, because I don't like dark fantasy, but this was so amazingly well-written that for anyone who's used to this genre, this will be a 4 to 5 stars for you.
The story follows Riley a human deviant who is kidnapped by the demons and is sold as a sex slave by a trader to his lord, but instead of thanking the trader who was a bad person, this Demon lord decides to order them raped and killed to create magic that he can then feed on. See Demons feed on magic and magic in this world is created by sexual activities and torture. However, Riley isn't as worried, because when he looks into the eyes of this demon lord, he recognises him. Eren was his "imaginary" childhood friend who went missing, but Eren quickly denies knowing him and Riley doesn't know why he doesn't remember him. But just because he knows him, doesn't mean he's willing to bend over and thus ensues the power play between them and the gradual trust and boundaries each of them set with each other.
First up, if you are at all sensitive to rape, this might not be the one for you. There are two almost rape scenes, and raping sex slaves and criminals is a common part of demon society and mentioned a lot. When the main character who asked why it wasn't banned, our morally grey love interest said it would be like banning religion. The society in which this takes place is messed up. There is no other way to put it, but everything immoral is addressed by the main characters and given the world building it makes sense why this society has evolved like it has. It is not thrown in there for shock value, some cheap story device, or without purpose.
The society is based around a magic system where sexual energies and torture create magic that angels and demons can feed off of. Each type of activity creates a certain amount of magic and each has a different flavour. No matter what it or how evil it is, none of the tastes are unpleasant tasting. Consequently, you have people growing up in a world that encourages them to harm others to get magic and rise in the ranks. It's very plausible and easy to understand why the society is morally bankrupt. However, they have some standards. They don't believe in enslaving their own (just humans who like deviant practices), they are heavily against demon on demon rape, female demons are respected and cherished a lot because there aren't many of them, demon children are cherished and protected as well, and the souls they torture for magic are all dead humans who're repeat rapists or destined for true Hell anyway. Also, evil behavour seen in on-page is not excused or justified by the main character, Riley (and Eren at times) are firmly against many aspects of demon and angel society. So while they have standards, but you can see why this is Dark fantasy.
I don't want to spoil, but the first 1/4 of the story, Eren and Riley is very rocky and abusive, but Eren grows kinder after choosing not rape Riley. Having read the second book I'll tell you there is a genuine reason why he treats people badly, but I'm not telling you.
What I liked about this though was it doesn't generalise, and every character is different. I've read books where the society consist of individuals that all share the same beliefs and preferences (i.e. everyone is LGBTQ+ and no one is straight), and I think I went into this with assumptions. Usually with erotic romance, every character liked or wants sex. That is not the case with this book. Not every demon likes sex. There are what's called Nosexuals who don't want to have sex and generally speaking those belief are respected in Demon Society. I really like this because not many romance books address that there are people who don't like sex, and it's good to see representation. Overall, every character the protagonist interacts with or over hears feels like a unique person. It's a realistic diversity of habits, preferences and opinions.
Here is a list of things I liked:
- The magic system. It was vivid, easy to understand, and original.
- There were funny conversations with secondary characters that provided comic relief throughout
- It had unexpected twists and turns. Some were fun and exciting, others with tense and stressful and then a few were plot twists.
- The complex and diverse, though dark, culture of demons was also well-thought out
- the war and political intrigue through
- and the unpredictability of the plot.
I wanted to read some fantasy sex scenes so I was looking at erotica goodreads lists where most books were 2 to 3 stars and out of the line stood out this 4.2 star one and I decided why not. I gave it a go, and its one of the most interesting books I've read. I'm very impressed with Julie Mannino's writing. I think this will appeal to the right audience given the triggers present.
In the end, I came for the sex scenes, but stayed for the story.
How much I liked it? 4-5 stars
Ideas - World building: 5 Stars
Ideas - Plot: 5 Stars
Character Depth: 5 Stars
Character interactions: Extensive
Animal Characterisation: Standard
Non-human body language: 4 Stars
Warnings: Explicit consensual sex scenes. Torture. Graphic Violence. Sexual Assault. Themes of Rape. Slavery. BDSM.
Execution (Proofreading): 4.9 Stars
May 2, 2023
I'll be Eren's pet😜
Definitely a favorite now. This might be her best one yet. Eren's so...I wanted to grab by the throat and shake him for what he did, but at the same time, I still love him. Riley was such an interesting guy too, and their both so fleshed out and complex. The world building 👌
Definitely a favorite now. This might be her best one yet. Eren's so...I wanted to grab by the throat and shake him for what he did, but at the same time, I still love him. Riley was such an interesting guy too, and their both so fleshed out and complex. The world building 👌
May 6, 2023
Great
This is a fabulous story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Not my usual genre I gave it a bash and was completely entertained. Great read, certainly recommend.
This is a fabulous story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Not my usual genre I gave it a bash and was completely entertained. Great read, certainly recommend.
May 14, 2023
Demonically Brilliant
One day as Riley is walking through the forest he encounters an abandoned cart. On closer inspection he finds a gold coin inside. Curious he gets into the cart to have a look but just as he does the cart closes locking him inside and magically travels him to a magical demonic land where he is immediately sold as a sex slave to a demon called Erebus who suspiciously looks like his childhood imaginary fairy friend, Eren. At first Riley tries to resist and escape this hellhole demonic land but his attempts are thwarted and through humiliation and manipulation Riley’s spirit is broken and is forced to grant Erubus’s every perverse and sexual whim. A bond soon materialises between the two but it’s not all it seems. Can the demon be trusted? Throughout all this Riley discovers startling things about himself that he had not known before and with an imminent battle looming between the demons and angels Riley’s life may be changed forever. This is a thrilling and very steamy fantasy tale that is not for the faint hearted. As I come to expect from the author the scenes are very descriptive and graphic with the writing style charging ahead at 100mph. I look forward to reading the sequel.
One day as Riley is walking through the forest he encounters an abandoned cart. On closer inspection he finds a gold coin inside. Curious he gets into the cart to have a look but just as he does the cart closes locking him inside and magically travels him to a magical demonic land where he is immediately sold as a sex slave to a demon called Erebus who suspiciously looks like his childhood imaginary fairy friend, Eren. At first Riley tries to resist and escape this hellhole demonic land but his attempts are thwarted and through humiliation and manipulation Riley’s spirit is broken and is forced to grant Erubus’s every perverse and sexual whim. A bond soon materialises between the two but it’s not all it seems. Can the demon be trusted? Throughout all this Riley discovers startling things about himself that he had not known before and with an imminent battle looming between the demons and angels Riley’s life may be changed forever. This is a thrilling and very steamy fantasy tale that is not for the faint hearted. As I come to expect from the author the scenes are very descriptive and graphic with the writing style charging ahead at 100mph. I look forward to reading the sequel.
August 17, 2023
Demonically Brilliant
One day as Riley is walking through the forest he encounters an abandoned cart. On closer inspection he finds a gold coin inside. Curious he gets into the cart to have a look but just as he does the cart closes locking him inside and magically travels him to a magical demonic land where he is immediately sold as a sex slave to a demon called Erebus who suspiciously looks like his childhood imaginary fairy friend, Eren. At first Riley tries to resist and escape this hellhole demonic land but his attempts are thwarted and through humiliation and manipulation Riley’s spirit is broken and is forced to grant Erubus’s every perverse and sexual whim. A bond soon materialises between the two but it’s not all it seems. Can the demon be trusted? Throughout all this Riley discovers startling things about himself that he had not known before and with an imminent battle looming between the demons and angels Riley’s life may be changed forever. This is a thrilling and very steamy fantasy tale that is not for the faint hearted. As I come to expect from the author the scenes are very descriptive and graphic with the writing style charging ahead at 100mph. I look forward to reading the sequel.
One day as Riley is walking through the forest he encounters an abandoned cart. On closer inspection he finds a gold coin inside. Curious he gets into the cart to have a look but just as he does the cart closes locking him inside and magically travels him to a magical demonic land where he is immediately sold as a sex slave to a demon called Erebus who suspiciously looks like his childhood imaginary fairy friend, Eren. At first Riley tries to resist and escape this hellhole demonic land but his attempts are thwarted and through humiliation and manipulation Riley’s spirit is broken and is forced to grant Erubus’s every perverse and sexual whim. A bond soon materialises between the two but it’s not all it seems. Can the demon be trusted? Throughout all this Riley discovers startling things about himself that he had not known before and with an imminent battle looming between the demons and angels Riley’s life may be changed forever. This is a thrilling and very steamy fantasy tale that is not for the faint hearted. As I come to expect from the author the scenes are very descriptive and graphic with the writing style charging ahead at 100mph. I look forward to reading the sequel.
May 31, 2023
Book 2 can't come fast enough. Riley is lured into the demon world where it seems his old "imaginary friend " wasn't so imaginary after all, except Eren (or Lord Erebus) doesn't remember him. They have a rough start, but after I finished it, and took another peek at book 2 blurb, I can see why. Eren was such a devious character. He seems like he could be niceish, once you get past the coldness, but theirs something else going on in the background.
I almost wanted to cry for Riley since he's been through so much and then Eren did THAT. I was suspicious of Riley after it mentioned his eyes, and then his shoulders and back weren't that hurt after his first night there? I thought that if he's human, he shouldn't be that sturdy. After Eren revealed a truth, it made sense why he wasn't physically damaged beyond soreness.
It also made more sense too. I should have guessed more since it was weird his back was itchy at other parts. Certain things were slipped in so smoothly, including the info in some books...wow
I almost wanted to cry for Riley since he's been through so much and then Eren did THAT. I was suspicious of Riley after it mentioned his eyes, and then his shoulders and back weren't that hurt after his first night there? I thought that if he's human, he shouldn't be that sturdy. After Eren revealed a truth, it made sense why he wasn't physically damaged beyond soreness.
It also made more sense too. I should have guessed more since it was weird his back was itchy at other parts. Certain things were slipped in so smoothly, including the info in some books...wow
April 24, 2023
This pulled me out of a bad reading slump. 2nd page and I was hooked. Riley gets taken to Hell City and finds his old friend is...not what he thought.
I loved the dynamic between these two, the witty banter, and while it's dark, hot, and kinky(which i like) there's the perfect amount of humor in the right places to balance it out. The ending got me anxiously checking the calender because holy cow I wasn't expecting that.
*The demon gently grasped Riley’s throat and whispered in his ear. “The things I would do to you if you let me.”*
Swoooon. For once, it wasn't my health issues making me do that.
I loved the dynamic between these two, the witty banter, and while it's dark, hot, and kinky(which i like) there's the perfect amount of humor in the right places to balance it out. The ending got me anxiously checking the calender because holy cow I wasn't expecting that.
*The demon gently grasped Riley’s throat and whispered in his ear. “The things I would do to you if you let me.”*
Swoooon. For once, it wasn't my health issues making me do that.
December 22, 2023
1.5
Note: I put off writing the reviews since January (again). I'm slowly catching up. So my memory will vary according to how long ago I read it and how impactful it was.
I vaguely remember bits and pieces. From my notes:
The rating is exclusively for the overall story, which could've been interesting if done better. The plot was nowhere to be seen except for the beginning and ending; the rest was just some diluted sort of fan fiction.
Eren wasn't believable in any change he had.
I skimmed like hell all the middle and ending, except the end, where I skimmed a little less. I'm not sure if this faint interest in the "plot" will be strong enough to continue.
Note: I put off writing the reviews since January (again). I'm slowly catching up. So my memory will vary according to how long ago I read it and how impactful it was.
I vaguely remember bits and pieces. From my notes:
The rating is exclusively for the overall story, which could've been interesting if done better. The plot was nowhere to be seen except for the beginning and ending; the rest was just some diluted sort of fan fiction.
Eren wasn't believable in any change he had.
I skimmed like hell all the middle and ending, except the end, where I skimmed a little less. I'm not sure if this faint interest in the "plot" will be strong enough to continue.
April 19, 2023
I stayed up too late reading it because I couldn't stop lol. Worth it though. The little hints and bits dropped through to the end with the feather had me going man! Looking forward to 2 and I need more Eren.
Actually, I think I might be more excited for 2 more because I think its dual pov. I read the description so seems like it.
Actually, I think I might be more excited for 2 more because I think its dual pov. I read the description so seems like it.
April 29, 2023
I almost have no words. I couldn't put it down. I lost sleep over this book. The sexual tension in some parts.
I guess this is a spoiler.
.
.
When they finally did it, it was amazing. The slow build and how this author makes you feel like your there. I need to see what happens after the feather!!
I guess this is a spoiler.
.
.
When they finally did it, it was amazing. The slow build and how this author makes you feel like your there. I need to see what happens after the feather!!
April 30, 2023
This book explores the thinking of one who is held captive and yet enjoys some aspect of it, plus the prospect of enjoyable sex. As this author's other books are, this one is kinky and well-written; it's a world of demons and magic, but I suppose one can get used to anything - this main character sure does!
April 29, 2023
unputdownable read
An unputdownable kinky adventure of read.
Whether you are new to this author or it’s you’re first time I’d say jumpy right in and get lost in the tight writing and erotica!
An unputdownable kinky adventure of read.
Whether you are new to this author or it’s you’re first time I’d say jumpy right in and get lost in the tight writing and erotica!
April 30, 2023
holy shit
April 30, 2023
Angelic Romance
Another great read from this author with plenty of Romance. A host of great characters and a very interesting plot. Would recommend.
Another great read from this author with plenty of Romance. A host of great characters and a very interesting plot. Would recommend.
May 21, 2023
This book is dark and so so good! I can’t wait to start book 2!
August 19, 2023
2.5⭐️
Smutty story with dramatic cliffhanger.
Enjoyable.
Smutty story with dramatic cliffhanger.
Enjoyable.
July 15, 2023
An Interesting Read
This quasi-erotic fantasy cum horror novel is the story of two supernatural beings. One is a half-human, half demon. The other is, if I understood it, the king of the demons. Most of the story takes place in a realm that is similar to Hell, but not as well constructed as Dante's vision.
Demonic erotica is the main thrust of this novel, and it will appeal to those seeking either, or both, in a story. It doesn't ask much deep thinking, and is perfect for poolside or the beach.
For what it is, the author did a spectacular job. Clearly this isn't meant to be the highest echelons of literary style. That said, the characters and plot are well developed.
Worth a few hours of leisure time. I recommend it.
This quasi-erotic fantasy cum horror novel is the story of two supernatural beings. One is a half-human, half demon. The other is, if I understood it, the king of the demons. Most of the story takes place in a realm that is similar to Hell, but not as well constructed as Dante's vision.
Demonic erotica is the main thrust of this novel, and it will appeal to those seeking either, or both, in a story. It doesn't ask much deep thinking, and is perfect for poolside or the beach.
For what it is, the author did a spectacular job. Clearly this isn't meant to be the highest echelons of literary style. That said, the characters and plot are well developed.
Worth a few hours of leisure time. I recommend it.
June 26, 2023
So interesting. Like a mix of the Fire & Brimstone series and the Bound God series. AND THE TWIST 👀… loved it.
I do wish the same attention that was given to the sex scenes was given to the story because the story is good. The sex scenes were well written and unique but the story was kind of tell not show in a lot of parts.
Keep the same amount of spice but add some flourish to the story telling. And sometimes the time jumping within the same page was hard to follow but not enough to stop from enjoying the story
I do wish the same attention that was given to the sex scenes was given to the story because the story is good. The sex scenes were well written and unique but the story was kind of tell not show in a lot of parts.
Keep the same amount of spice but add some flourish to the story telling. And sometimes the time jumping within the same page was hard to follow but not enough to stop from enjoying the story
April 24, 2023
Hot hot hot
Riley’s secret childhood friend is not someone he imagined. But one day he is pulled into a world which is literally hell… he looses his freedom and turned into a slave meant for Eren. He is beaten.. battered and has no hope. Only time would say.
A kinky read, though I haven’t read many I couldn’t put it down. A must read.
Riley’s secret childhood friend is not someone he imagined. But one day he is pulled into a world which is literally hell… he looses his freedom and turned into a slave meant for Eren. He is beaten.. battered and has no hope. Only time would say.
A kinky read, though I haven’t read many I couldn’t put it down. A must read.
August 12, 2023
An M/M Demon Angle Romance.
The author has created a well-written kinky submission romance with an interesting plot that kept me turning the pages. This is definitely for those with an open mind.
The author has created a well-written kinky submission romance with an interesting plot that kept me turning the pages. This is definitely for those with an open mind.
May 22, 2023
DNF
struggled to make it past 20%
I had no issues with the concepts, but the writing style wasn't for me and I found the MC unlikeable.
struggled to make it past 20%
I had no issues with the concepts, but the writing style wasn't for me and I found the MC unlikeable.
December 13, 2023
Time of death: 58% page 145
As above is about the man Riley and his life after being abducted to hell, slave to lord Erebus. Used as a power source created through strong feelings born from humiliation, desire, pain and so on. A master/slave relationship set in hell sounds like a good and dark setting which unfortunately is good in theory but in this book the writing doesn't do the idea justice.
More times than not I wished for an editor to look it over. If there was I have to say it was a poor job. The story get's repititive and boring, Riley being kidnapped and his behaviour feels unbelievable. His reaction feel fake, his pretense of reluctance and defiance feels forced. He accepted everything way too fast, the worst thing for me were his thoughts about it though. You can do certain things to avoid torture and rape when being enslaved and try everything in your might to survive but him liking it in secret lost the fact he being a slave on me.
I just didn't believe the characters behaviour. Eren, lord of hell felt way too nice to me. May be some different approach of the idea of hell and demons but it was contradicting for me. He will humiliate Riley and punish him but when it will be too much he would stop because deep down he is a good demon?
I really wanted to like this book but it was way too frustrating for me to go on. Happy that others love it which was the only reason I really wanted to read this book but sometimes lots of good reviews clash with what I expect from a book I guess.
As above is about the man Riley and his life after being abducted to hell, slave to lord Erebus. Used as a power source created through strong feelings born from humiliation, desire, pain and so on. A master/slave relationship set in hell sounds like a good and dark setting which unfortunately is good in theory but in this book the writing doesn't do the idea justice.
More times than not I wished for an editor to look it over. If there was I have to say it was a poor job. The story get's repititive and boring, Riley being kidnapped and his behaviour feels unbelievable. His reaction feel fake, his pretense of reluctance and defiance feels forced. He accepted everything way too fast, the worst thing for me were his thoughts about it though. You can do certain things to avoid torture and rape when being enslaved and try everything in your might to survive but him liking it in secret lost the fact he being a slave on me.
I just didn't believe the characters behaviour. Eren, lord of hell felt way too nice to me. May be some different approach of the idea of hell and demons but it was contradicting for me. He will humiliate Riley and punish him but when it will be too much he would stop because deep down he is a good demon?
I really wanted to like this book but it was way too frustrating for me to go on. Happy that others love it which was the only reason I really wanted to read this book but sometimes lots of good reviews clash with what I expect from a book I guess.
Want to read
April 29, 2023Some of the kinks and cw below since gr cut a good deal off
Kinky, s*x-based energy magic system
Master/sl@ve relationship
Touch him and be unalived vibe
Magic e-stim k!nk
K!nky tail action 😶
Sounding with the tail 😏
Public humili@tion/degr@dation/ritual s*x
Bond@ge
Bd$m
Enemies to lovers and back to enemies
A war between the Fallen
A dragon/dog hybrid
Lucid dreaming ability
The unfortunates who don't get out of the way of Eren’s scythe.
This is for mature readers only. There are demons, and they're not all rainbows and sunshine.
Contains
Violence
Mentioned t*rture
Attempted $@
@buse
Kinky, s*x-based energy magic system
Master/sl@ve relationship
Touch him and be unalived vibe
Magic e-stim k!nk
K!nky tail action 😶
Sounding with the tail 😏
Public humili@tion/degr@dation/ritual s*x
Bond@ge
Bd$m
Enemies to lovers and back to enemies
A war between the Fallen
A dragon/dog hybrid
Lucid dreaming ability
The unfortunates who don't get out of the way of Eren’s scythe.
This is for mature readers only. There are demons, and they're not all rainbows and sunshine.
Contains
Violence
Mentioned t*rture
Attempted $@
@buse
July 29, 2023
3.5 rounded up
I feel conflicted.! This was an interesting read, but there were numerous typos. I’m going to wait until I finish the second book to put my thoughts together.
I feel conflicted.! This was an interesting read, but there were numerous typos. I’m going to wait until I finish the second book to put my thoughts together.
August 9, 2023
Let me preface this by saying that I've never ready an erotic romance centered on two male characters. Did I learn a few things about what could potentially go down in the bedroom? I would say so. But besides that, the book was quite surprising in the fact that there was substance to these characters. Generally, with books that focus intensely on erotica this type of growth is severely lacking.
Riley is a submissive male who has been living on Earth with a condition that makes his age slowly. Because of this, he's very quiet, apprehensive, and closed-off. Always on the move, he decides to make his way back to his home village where he spent the few years of his life being cared for by a kind man referred to as Uncle Grevin and playing with a very particular child he met in the woods. With those memories of his strange childhood friend eating away at him, he wanders into the woods and is kidnapped to a magical world simply known as Hell.
This isn't your typical story about demons and angels. These two entities have been at war with each other over this magical place for centuries. The demons have their own way of living under the rule of Lord Ereberus, their powerful and cruel demon overlord who Riley only remembers as Eren, his long-lost childhood friend. Riley is given to Lord Ereberus as a gift as humans are slaves in the demonic world, but Riley isn't just some ordinary human.
I will say that the world the author has created is quite imaginative and deliciously sinister. Mannino wasn't afraid to make demons how they truly should be which are vile, malicious creatures. Sometimes you read a book about demons or Hell and it's like the author won't push boundaries, but Mannino doesn't seem afraid to do so. I will say that there are some boundaries the author won't cross which gives the demons a semblance of morality among their kind. The dynamics of Hell and its citizens are interesting to say the least. Something that Riley points out when he's learning about their culture and customs.
This book won't be for everyone as there is a plethora of erotic scenes sprinkled among the plot line. Some may find the scenes to be too much, but I think it was a way to show the building trust between Eren and Riley as potential lovers instead of owner and slave. These scenes do reflect BDSM and although there is that power dynamic, the sex between the characters is consensual. I do believe having the two characters as childhood friends made it more believable because it established familiarity and a closeness that was once had instead of spiraling straight into Stockholm Syndrome.
To be honest, this is the first LGBT erotic romance that I've read. I've read LGBT romance novels before but none so explicit. It was different, and the story held my attention. This is the first book in the series, and I've already ordered the second one because I need to know what happens. The cliffhanger is too enticing to pass up!
Riley is a submissive male who has been living on Earth with a condition that makes his age slowly. Because of this, he's very quiet, apprehensive, and closed-off. Always on the move, he decides to make his way back to his home village where he spent the few years of his life being cared for by a kind man referred to as Uncle Grevin and playing with a very particular child he met in the woods. With those memories of his strange childhood friend eating away at him, he wanders into the woods and is kidnapped to a magical world simply known as Hell.
This isn't your typical story about demons and angels. These two entities have been at war with each other over this magical place for centuries. The demons have their own way of living under the rule of Lord Ereberus, their powerful and cruel demon overlord who Riley only remembers as Eren, his long-lost childhood friend. Riley is given to Lord Ereberus as a gift as humans are slaves in the demonic world, but Riley isn't just some ordinary human.
I will say that the world the author has created is quite imaginative and deliciously sinister. Mannino wasn't afraid to make demons how they truly should be which are vile, malicious creatures. Sometimes you read a book about demons or Hell and it's like the author won't push boundaries, but Mannino doesn't seem afraid to do so. I will say that there are some boundaries the author won't cross which gives the demons a semblance of morality among their kind. The dynamics of Hell and its citizens are interesting to say the least. Something that Riley points out when he's learning about their culture and customs.
This book won't be for everyone as there is a plethora of erotic scenes sprinkled among the plot line. Some may find the scenes to be too much, but I think it was a way to show the building trust between Eren and Riley as potential lovers instead of owner and slave. These scenes do reflect BDSM and although there is that power dynamic, the sex between the characters is consensual. I do believe having the two characters as childhood friends made it more believable because it established familiarity and a closeness that was once had instead of spiraling straight into Stockholm Syndrome.
To be honest, this is the first LGBT erotic romance that I've read. I've read LGBT romance novels before but none so explicit. It was different, and the story held my attention. This is the first book in the series, and I've already ordered the second one because I need to know what happens. The cliffhanger is too enticing to pass up!
June 6, 2023
This book tells the story of two supernatural beings, Riley, a half human, half demon, and Eren, who is like the king of the demons. Most of the story takes place in a realm that is like Hell, but not quite Hell.
The story has three major components. There is demon erotica, demon romance, and adventurous fantasy.
The demon erotica is really most of the book. A certain audience will enjoy this. That audience would be into gay erotica and BDSM. This type of sex seems to be what demons use as a certain power source. Torture his also used. I think the sex scenes are well done, but I think there is too much of it. The storyline of this book was too good to be so focused on the sex.
The demon romance part was present, but I thought it took a backseat to the erotica. The book almost seems more focused on the two main characters establishing sexual compatibility than romance. I don’t think there needed to be more emphasis on the romance. I just think if you want a romantic component, you need to establish more with things other than hardcore sex.
My favorite component of the book was the action and adventure. The scenes where Riley tries to escape and the battle scenes are intense and well described. The problem is there’s simply not enough. I would have liked the book better if book would have had more action throughout instead of mainly focused at the end.
Overall, this was a fun read. I’d definitely recommend this book if you love demon fiction and can tolerate or like gay erotica with strong BDSM components.
The story has three major components. There is demon erotica, demon romance, and adventurous fantasy.
The demon erotica is really most of the book. A certain audience will enjoy this. That audience would be into gay erotica and BDSM. This type of sex seems to be what demons use as a certain power source. Torture his also used. I think the sex scenes are well done, but I think there is too much of it. The storyline of this book was too good to be so focused on the sex.
The demon romance part was present, but I thought it took a backseat to the erotica. The book almost seems more focused on the two main characters establishing sexual compatibility than romance. I don’t think there needed to be more emphasis on the romance. I just think if you want a romantic component, you need to establish more with things other than hardcore sex.
My favorite component of the book was the action and adventure. The scenes where Riley tries to escape and the battle scenes are intense and well described. The problem is there’s simply not enough. I would have liked the book better if book would have had more action throughout instead of mainly focused at the end.
Overall, this was a fun read. I’d definitely recommend this book if you love demon fiction and can tolerate or like gay erotica with strong BDSM components.
April 16, 2023
I could not stop once I got started! I think Eren is my new favorite character to date. Move over Ned, Vasily, and prince Laurent.
I love manipulative characters, and while this listed as enemies to lovers, I thought that was just some of the first bits. I was not expecting that scene with the pearl closer to the end.
Riley’s lucid dreams are interesting and I'm interested to see where that goes. I won't dare the spoil the ending, but after that bit...that final sentence explained a lot. Thank God book two isn't far away because I need it😬
Overall, the kink was super hot too. The magical electric stimulation, the suspension,🥵. I love the world's this authors comes up with and how they're described.
ALSO, I liked how this God and religion was NOT a key part at all. I don't have anything against that in books, but it made this different and refreshing so the story could flow well without the big man pulling strings and controlling the overall picture. The demons also weren't all described with dark colors or dark skin which I've seen before. There's so much variance instead of segregating "bad guys" as dark skinned.
I love manipulative characters, and while this listed as enemies to lovers, I thought that was just some of the first bits. I was not expecting that scene with the pearl closer to the end.
Riley’s lucid dreams are interesting and I'm interested to see where that goes. I won't dare the spoil the ending, but after that bit...that final sentence explained a lot. Thank God book two isn't far away because I need it😬
Overall, the kink was super hot too. The magical electric stimulation, the suspension,🥵. I love the world's this authors comes up with and how they're described.
ALSO, I liked how this God and religion was NOT a key part at all. I don't have anything against that in books, but it made this different and refreshing so the story could flow well without the big man pulling strings and controlling the overall picture. The demons also weren't all described with dark colors or dark skin which I've seen before. There's so much variance instead of segregating "bad guys" as dark skinned.
December 4, 2023
OMG, THIS BOOK WAS SO FRICKIN' GOOD!
It has some of the hottest sex scenes I have read in a long time.
And the twist at the end, really caught me of guard, I honestly didn't expect that.
Extremely excited to start the next book, I need to know
OBS:
This is a hard book to recommend; it is really dark at times, so it's not for everybody(dead dove do not eat). But if you are the type of person(like me) who isn't bothered by that.........
YOU NEED TO READY IT!!!!!!!
It has some of the hottest sex scenes I have read in a long time.
And the twist at the end, really caught me of guard, I honestly didn't expect that.
Extremely excited to start the next book, I need to know
OBS:
This is a hard book to recommend; it is really dark at times, so it's not for everybody(dead dove do not eat). But if you are the type of person(like me) who isn't bothered by that.........
YOU NEED TO READY IT!!!!!!!
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