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The Reckless Damned #1
Devil's Mark
Cal and his brothers turned their backs on the family business over a hundred years ago. Hell is tired of waiting for them to return.
Cal
I’ve never wanted a relationship—especially not with a human. With my father demanding my return to Hell and a demon leaving dead bodies in my bookshop, now is not the time to lose my heart.
One look in Oscar’s broken eyes, and I know I’m in trouble. Oscar’s been hurt before, and everything in me screams to keep him safe. How can I do that when I know being with me will only put him in more danger?
More importantly, am I strong enough to walk away from him?
Oscar
After escaping my last relationship with broken bones and an anxiety disorder, I’m tired of living half a life. My world revolves around my classroom, flat, and best friend. When fate throws Cal in my path, he seems too good to be true. He looks like he’s been pulled from my fantasies, and my baggage doesn’t scare him. Ok, so there’s the tiny issue of him being a demon, but I’ve dealt with far scarier.
I’ve been broken once before, and I don’t think I’d survive it again. Can I let down my barriers enough to let Cal in?
Devil’s Mark is the first in The Reckless Damned series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. It contains mature content.
Cal
I’ve never wanted a relationship—especially not with a human. With my father demanding my return to Hell and a demon leaving dead bodies in my bookshop, now is not the time to lose my heart.
One look in Oscar’s broken eyes, and I know I’m in trouble. Oscar’s been hurt before, and everything in me screams to keep him safe. How can I do that when I know being with me will only put him in more danger?
More importantly, am I strong enough to walk away from him?
Oscar
After escaping my last relationship with broken bones and an anxiety disorder, I’m tired of living half a life. My world revolves around my classroom, flat, and best friend. When fate throws Cal in my path, he seems too good to be true. He looks like he’s been pulled from my fantasies, and my baggage doesn’t scare him. Ok, so there’s the tiny issue of him being a demon, but I’ve dealt with far scarier.
I’ve been broken once before, and I don’t think I’d survive it again. Can I let down my barriers enough to let Cal in?
Devil’s Mark is the first in The Reckless Damned series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. It contains mature content.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published July 18, 2022
751 people are currently reading
3270 people want to read
About the author
Lark Taylor
26 books1,128 followersLark lives with her family in southern England. An obsessive romance fan, she loves nothing more than a Happily Ever After – especially if there’s a good plot and a hefty amount of spice along the way. When she’s not reading or writing, she can be found hiding from adult life in escape rooms, travel and the MCU. As a Bi woman with OCD, Lark is a fervent supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and an advocate for mental health awareness and support.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 734 reviews
July 5, 2022
When the MCs always find reasons to be consistently touching each other>>>>>
Ngl, I've been struggling to finish books lately. Partly exhaustion, mostly anxiety and feeling like I need to keep up with all the new releases 🥲🥲
Needless to say, y'all know me and my short attention span are whores for the insta lust/attraction/love trope! I'll honestly do anything for it...I meannn my ass practically begged the author for an ARC sooooooo yeahhh take from that what you will 😂
I'm happy to say that this was the first book in a hot minute I could just easily breeze through and my bookish heart loves that so it gets the stars!! And my verdict? oh man, this satisfied my craving for some fated mates-ish ish 🤤🤤 also it was low-key reminiscent of Jaclyn Osborn's Galen so if you liked that book definitely check this out!
Anywaysssss
This story is centered around Cal, one of the son's of Lucifer who falls in lust at first sight with a human, Oscar. For a book that features demons (higher level demons at that), this was surprisingly sweet. I'm talking you may need to book an appointment with your dentist for a filling sweet. It was perfect for me and it had me grinning so hard the entire time, my face cheeks are practically frozen solid. I got a serious case of the grins (I don't know if that's a thing 😂) So while there is some triggering content, I wouldn't classify this as a dark romance.
"No matter what you’re thinking or going through, I’ll be at your side. Nothing about you can scare me away. That’s the good thing about demons. Your darkness cannot contend with mine.”
I loved Cal protectiveness, and Oscar's boldness. I loved how open and honest they were with each other. And special shoutout to Harlow and Mori who are both somehow simultaneously my spirit animals. Also not me squealing over Cal (again, a literally demon) getting nervous about meeting Oscar's bestie 🤭🤭
I am shook-eth to my core-eth that this was Lark Taylor's debut!!! MIND BLOWN 🤯 It was the perfect dose of bickering banter between brothers (we love an unintended alliteration), roll-on-floor-laughing moments, mutually book-obsessed protagonists (one's an English teacher and the other owns a bookstore... if this isn't a match made in heaven (hell?) I don't know what is), possessiveness, jealousy, steamy steamyyyyy-like-the-inside-of-pork-dumplings scenes and of course an overarching suspenseful plot that has me THIRSTY for book 2 already!
Seriously Harlow and Bailey's book cannot come soon enough ahhh!!!!
Ngl, I've been struggling to finish books lately. Partly exhaustion, mostly anxiety and feeling like I need to keep up with all the new releases 🥲🥲
Needless to say, y'all know me and my short attention span are whores for the insta lust/attraction/love trope! I'll honestly do anything for it...I meannn my ass practically begged the author for an ARC sooooooo yeahhh take from that what you will 😂
I'm happy to say that this was the first book in a hot minute I could just easily breeze through and my bookish heart loves that so it gets the stars!! And my verdict? oh man, this satisfied my craving for some fated mates-ish ish 🤤🤤 also it was low-key reminiscent of Jaclyn Osborn's Galen so if you liked that book definitely check this out!
Anywaysssss
This story is centered around Cal, one of the son's of Lucifer who falls in lust at first sight with a human, Oscar. For a book that features demons (higher level demons at that), this was surprisingly sweet. I'm talking you may need to book an appointment with your dentist for a filling sweet. It was perfect for me and it had me grinning so hard the entire time, my face cheeks are practically frozen solid. I got a serious case of the grins (I don't know if that's a thing 😂) So while there is some triggering content, I wouldn't classify this as a dark romance.
"No matter what you’re thinking or going through, I’ll be at your side. Nothing about you can scare me away. That’s the good thing about demons. Your darkness cannot contend with mine.”
I loved Cal protectiveness, and Oscar's boldness. I loved how open and honest they were with each other. And special shoutout to Harlow and Mori who are both somehow simultaneously my spirit animals. Also not me squealing over Cal (again, a literally demon) getting nervous about meeting Oscar's bestie 🤭🤭
I am shook-eth to my core-eth that this was Lark Taylor's debut!!! MIND BLOWN 🤯 It was the perfect dose of bickering banter between brothers (we love an unintended alliteration), roll-on-floor-laughing moments, mutually book-obsessed protagonists (one's an English teacher and the other owns a bookstore... if this isn't a match made in heaven (hell?) I don't know what is), possessiveness, jealousy, steamy steamyyyyy-like-the-inside-of-pork-dumplings scenes and of course an overarching suspenseful plot that has me THIRSTY for book 2 already!
Seriously Harlow and Bailey's book cannot come soon enough ahhh!!!!
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March 4, 2023
|| 1.5 stars ||
Oh my god. I am actually surprised at how dreadfully boring I found this. Absolutely nothing interesting happens, everything is terribly repetitive and monotone, and there was just no progression in this story whatsoever.
The plot was extremely silly. It’s super cliché and offers nothing new to the table, but it was also just incredibly dense and eye-roll worthy. I definitely let out more than one sigh of exasperation.
It was unfortunately all executed in a way that did not manage to capture my interest or investment in any way: It left me feeling cold towards the characters as well as the romance. It’s not that I disliked them, it’s just that I didn’t care.
The characters seemed like cardboard cut-outs to me, and the chemistry between them felt wooden and stilted. This over-the-top, simple and smooth-sailing kind of insta-love wasn't for me.
I mean, sure, there were a few scenes I enjoyed here. Sometimes the protectiveness or possessiveness would tickle my fancy, but eventually I even got bored with those things, and I just ended up wanting to skim over everything.
I’m disappointed, but maybe it was stupid of me to assume this would be any good. I could, and maybe even should, have seen it coming, but somehow I just didn’t.
Call me stupid, but I’m even still debating on if I want to read any other books that might come out in this series. Some of the couples do seem like they could be much more interesting.. Especially Dimitri and Dagon. *sigh* I just don’t know. I’m almost sure I am setting myself up for another disappointment, but I might not be able to stop myself from giving it a chance. I’m nothing if not a masochist, apparently.
Oh my god. I am actually surprised at how dreadfully boring I found this. Absolutely nothing interesting happens, everything is terribly repetitive and monotone, and there was just no progression in this story whatsoever.
The plot was extremely silly. It’s super cliché and offers nothing new to the table, but it was also just incredibly dense and eye-roll worthy. I definitely let out more than one sigh of exasperation.
It was unfortunately all executed in a way that did not manage to capture my interest or investment in any way: It left me feeling cold towards the characters as well as the romance. It’s not that I disliked them, it’s just that I didn’t care.
The characters seemed like cardboard cut-outs to me, and the chemistry between them felt wooden and stilted. This over-the-top, simple and smooth-sailing kind of insta-love wasn't for me.
I mean, sure, there were a few scenes I enjoyed here. Sometimes the protectiveness or possessiveness would tickle my fancy, but eventually I even got bored with those things, and I just ended up wanting to skim over everything.
“I would never hurt you. You could carve out my own heart and crush it beneath your boot, and I would still thank you for your time and attention.”
I’m disappointed, but maybe it was stupid of me to assume this would be any good. I could, and maybe even should, have seen it coming, but somehow I just didn’t.
Call me stupid, but I’m even still debating on if I want to read any other books that might come out in this series. Some of the couples do seem like they could be much more interesting.. Especially Dimitri and Dagon. *sigh* I just don’t know. I’m almost sure I am setting myself up for another disappointment, but I might not be able to stop myself from giving it a chance. I’m nothing if not a masochist, apparently.
August 12, 2024
reread #2: who wants to hear me complain about the fact that the author forgot to mention fated mates exist in this universe???
yeah, nobody. so let’s move on.
even if there is this gigantic issue, this is my third time reading this and i love it. i have to accept that this is a 5 star book even if it makes me mad.
reread:
okay i am not that dumb, they don’t say anywhere that mates exist. that’s the sad reason why i can’t give this 4 stars. you can’t just forget to add a crucial detail. a tragedy.
however i still enjoy this very much, thank fuck.
i’ll just leave this little quote that may or may not encourage you to read this:
"I would never hurt you. You could carve out my own heart and crush it beneath your boot, and I would still thank you for your time and attention."
original review:
i like to think that i’m not a dramatic person but then i do shit like asking you guys to pray (me, an atheist) for my next read because i’m scared. can we just agree that i didn’t do that??? thanks.
i didn’t have to worry. is this book flawed? yes. do i care? no.
i don’t know if it’s because i’m too sleep deprived, i just have bad taste or if it’s because i just read terrible books before this so it felt better than it really is. i won’t waste brain power on this question because i honestly don’t care that much.
about the book: honestly i didn’t find this boring at all, which was my main concern. i have to say that i’m a slut for simp demons with a possessive streak and a stalkerish behavior. i got what i wanted and i’m happy, i’m easy like that.
what bugged me was the insta attraction thing. this is paranormal so i was like “oh they’re fated mates or some shit it’s fine”, but then cal said that fated mates don’t exist and that honestly ruined things. i love fated mates but insta love??? no. and yes, they are two different things.
i’ve decided to ignore the author and that cal and oscar are fated mates. now the book makes sense. you’re welcome.
yeah, nobody. so let’s move on.
even if there is this gigantic issue, this is my third time reading this and i love it. i have to accept that this is a 5 star book even if it makes me mad.
reread:
okay i am not that dumb, they don’t say anywhere that mates exist. that’s the sad reason why i can’t give this 4 stars. you can’t just forget to add a crucial detail. a tragedy.
however i still enjoy this very much, thank fuck.
i’ll just leave this little quote that may or may not encourage you to read this:
"I would never hurt you. You could carve out my own heart and crush it beneath your boot, and I would still thank you for your time and attention."
original review:
i like to think that i’m not a dramatic person but then i do shit like asking you guys to pray (me, an atheist) for my next read because i’m scared. can we just agree that i didn’t do that??? thanks.
i didn’t have to worry. is this book flawed? yes. do i care? no.
i don’t know if it’s because i’m too sleep deprived, i just have bad taste or if it’s because i just read terrible books before this so it felt better than it really is. i won’t waste brain power on this question because i honestly don’t care that much.
about the book: honestly i didn’t find this boring at all, which was my main concern. i have to say that i’m a slut for simp demons with a possessive streak and a stalkerish behavior. i got what i wanted and i’m happy, i’m easy like that.
what bugged me was the insta attraction thing. this is paranormal so i was like “oh they’re fated mates or some shit it’s fine”, but then cal said that fated mates don’t exist and that honestly ruined things. i love fated mates but insta love??? no. and yes, they are two different things.
i’ve decided to ignore the author and that cal and oscar are fated mates. now the book makes sense. you’re welcome.
Read
July 28, 2022DNF @40%. No rating because I didn't even skim to the end.
Not feeling this at all.
Uber insta-love. The 3 princes of hell acting like 3 children/frat boys was too much for me.
They are hundreads of years old.
Make them act like it.
I don't get this frat boy trend anymore. Can't men act like grown men and not teenagers for a change?
Not feeling this at all.
Uber insta-love. The 3 princes of hell acting like 3 children/frat boys was too much for me.
They are hundreads of years old.
Make them act like it.
I don't get this frat boy trend anymore. Can't men act like grown men and not teenagers for a change?
July 13, 2023
~3.5~
This is a fun introduction to the series! I love me some hot demons, and the four Reckless Damned brothers are in a league of their own.
Cal is possessive and powerful, and can't help but mark Oscar the second he meets him.
Oscar's been hurt and traumatized by his violent, abusive ex, but Cal makes him feel safe.
The secondary plot about rescuing Dagon, the fourth brother, from the clutches of hell felt a bit like an aside.
I also didn't like how predictable the whole thing with Oscar's ex was.
Will continue with the series. I'm curious about Mori especially.
This is a fun introduction to the series! I love me some hot demons, and the four Reckless Damned brothers are in a league of their own.
Cal is possessive and powerful, and can't help but mark Oscar the second he meets him.
Oscar's been hurt and traumatized by his violent, abusive ex, but Cal makes him feel safe.
The secondary plot about rescuing Dagon, the fourth brother, from the clutches of hell felt a bit like an aside.
I also didn't like how predictable the whole thing with Oscar's ex was.
Will continue with the series. I'm curious about Mori especially.
dropped
October 20, 2022dnf @35%
Okay, I was about to dnf this like fifteen times in the first 15% because somehow this wasn’t working for me at all. Their first encounter in that club was cringe-worthy, really!
But then, Cal spread his giant, black-feathered wings like the prince of darkness he is and I was a goner. Sometimes I’m easy like that *swoon
From there it was all sappy and sweet along with a lot of cheesy lines to highlight. But instead of scrunching my nose like I expected myself continuing to do I was all like awwww!!!! *slapping my hand over my heart
But a short while later I went back to scrunching my nose. I don’t know. (btw. this was already my second attempt at reading this book.)
************
I talked to my reading-buddy Dee, cause we were on the same page with this from the beginning. When he saw no progress and a lot more cringe-worthy moments to come, we called it quits. But thank you, honey for taking one for the team and making it way further into the book today than I did *lollll
Okay, I was about to dnf this like fifteen times in the first 15% because somehow this wasn’t working for me at all. Their first encounter in that club was cringe-worthy, really!
But then, Cal spread his giant, black-feathered wings like the prince of darkness he is and I was a goner. Sometimes I’m easy like that *swoon
From there it was all sappy and sweet along with a lot of cheesy lines to highlight. But instead of scrunching my nose like I expected myself continuing to do I was all like awwww!!!! *slapping my hand over my heart
But a short while later I went back to scrunching my nose. I don’t know. (btw. this was already my second attempt at reading this book.)
************
I talked to my reading-buddy Dee, cause we were on the same page with this from the beginning. When he saw no progress and a lot more cringe-worthy moments to come, we called it quits. But thank you, honey for taking one for the team and making it way further into the book today than I did *lollll
September 8, 2022
Holy Hell, just try to wipe the grin off my face, I dare you. I can't remember the last time a book made me giddy like this one did. I thought I was going to wriggle out of my skin. The Twilight dig alone had my smile lines threatening permanence. And no, that was not me in tears during the epilogue. I wasn't so happy for Cal and Oscar that I could burst. And I definitely didn't rush through my house in search of a comfort snack to ease the pain of having to wait until November to get Harlow's story (Cheez-Its and lemonade, in case you were curious). This book was so good, y'all! So. Freaking. Good!
So, Cal was an upper demon who had chosen to live on Earth because reasons and Oscar was a human English teacher dealing with anxiety triggered by an abusive relationship. Their first encounter was one of those "everything fell away and there was only him" moments. Very fated mates, but in a meta way because there was so much awareness of it. Like, this book wasn't trying to convince me or sell me on the idea. The characters were fully aware of how ridiculous the whole thing seemed but kinda just went with it, which was one of many reasons I adored them so much. Cal was perfection. Too perfect? Probably, but I didn't care. I even let him get away with calling Oscar "sweetheart", which is saying something. Oscar was my favorite, though. The way he would nervously wait for permission to cling to Cal like a koala had me all gooey. He was so tactile and touch starved that he couldn't help but climb all over Cal and Cal ate that shit up. Apparently I like it when MC's can't keep their hands off each other, which is probably why I love books by Cora Rose so much.
I loved the danger lurking in the background of the story. It was tucked away just enough to allow the focus to remain on Cal and Oscar's burgeoning relationship, but crept up in all the right places and in satisfying ways. The side characters were fantastic, especially Cal's brothers who I can't wait to see more of. For any author wondering how to tease the next book in a series without distracting from the current one, let this book be your guide. I could not be more curious or excited about what's going on with Harlow.
So, Cal was an upper demon who had chosen to live on Earth because reasons and Oscar was a human English teacher dealing with anxiety triggered by an abusive relationship. Their first encounter was one of those "everything fell away and there was only him" moments. Very fated mates, but in a meta way because there was so much awareness of it. Like, this book wasn't trying to convince me or sell me on the idea. The characters were fully aware of how ridiculous the whole thing seemed but kinda just went with it, which was one of many reasons I adored them so much. Cal was perfection. Too perfect? Probably, but I didn't care. I even let him get away with calling Oscar "sweetheart", which is saying something. Oscar was my favorite, though. The way he would nervously wait for permission to cling to Cal like a koala had me all gooey. He was so tactile and touch starved that he couldn't help but climb all over Cal and Cal ate that shit up. Apparently I like it when MC's can't keep their hands off each other, which is probably why I love books by Cora Rose so much.
I loved the danger lurking in the background of the story. It was tucked away just enough to allow the focus to remain on Cal and Oscar's burgeoning relationship, but crept up in all the right places and in satisfying ways. The side characters were fantastic, especially Cal's brothers who I can't wait to see more of. For any author wondering how to tease the next book in a series without distracting from the current one, let this book be your guide. I could not be more curious or excited about what's going on with Harlow.
September 5, 2023
i'm going to keep this really short bc i'm in a review slump but i need to post something bc of how much i adored this!
the romance & chemistry? top tier ✔️
the emotions, the angst & hurt/comfort? ✔️
found family? one of the best i've read ✔️
plot outside the romance? perfection 😍
was it spicy and hot? hell yeah
lots of humour that will make you laugh your ass off? ✔️🤣
protective & possessive AF demon? ✔️✔️✔️✔️ x1000
and one beautiful touch starved human 🥹
also said demon owns a BOOK STORE? yes please
touch him and die? yes yes yessss
no third act break up ✔️
sweetheart as a pet name? ✔️so damn cute 🥺
will i immediately be reading the next book in the series? of course
so in conclusion, i was a very happy person while reading this.
"I will choose you every day for the rest of eternity" 🖤
the romance & chemistry? top tier ✔️
the emotions, the angst & hurt/comfort? ✔️
found family? one of the best i've read ✔️
plot outside the romance? perfection 😍
was it spicy and hot? hell yeah
lots of humour that will make you laugh your ass off? ✔️🤣
protective & possessive AF demon? ✔️✔️✔️✔️ x1000
and one beautiful touch starved human 🥹
also said demon owns a BOOK STORE? yes please
touch him and die? yes yes yessss
no third act break up ✔️
sweetheart as a pet name? ✔️so damn cute 🥺
will i immediately be reading the next book in the series? of course
so in conclusion, i was a very happy person while reading this.
"I will choose you every day for the rest of eternity" 🖤
November 3, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
I cuddled him closer, my chest hurting at how touch-deprived he was. If Oscar wanted me to carry him around like a baby koala all day, then you could bet your arse that was what I would do.
Yet another reread in hopes of actually continuing and finishing the series this time around. Cross your fingers and toes, lol.
I woke up with all the fun emotions. Shame. Anxiety. Bitterness. Fear. It wasn’t the first time, and it wouldn’t be the last. Before Joe, I didn’t exactly bounce out of bed, but I also didn’t wake up wishing I hadn’t.
I really like Cal and Oscar together, and how sweet they are. They bond over romance books ffs. Swoon. Cal is a sweet and gentle soul, you know, considering he’s actually a prince of hell, lol.
You don’t want to get off the sofa? I’ll sit with you. You’re having an anxiety attack? I’ll talk you through it. No matter what you’re thinking or going through, I’ll be at your side. Nothing about you can scare me away. That’s the good thing about demons. Your darkness cannot contend with mine.”
I think the past trauma for Oscar was handled well, and it was a good way to build the relationship between the MCs. This is definitely a book I would recommend if you enjoy (urban) paranormal romance, as well as a solid dose of hurt/comfort. It’s not 5 stars for me because I think it’s a touch longer than needed. It kinda drags in a few spots, which is probably why it took me longer than excpected to finish it both times I read it. It’s really good, but not quite captivating, ya’know? Well, not to me, anyway. Love the writing tho.
Sweeping my eyes down over his sharp suit, I gulped as my gaze caught on the sizable bulge against his thigh. I was both massively aroused and suitably terrified by what he was packing.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Paranormal
Demon/human
Fated mates
Prince of hell
Hookup to lovers
Age gap
Size difference
Hurt/comfort
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Emotional abuse (past)
Domestic violence (past)
Panic attacks
Graphic violence
Explicit sexual content
Casual references to torture
Flashbacks (abuse)
Physical assault (on page)
On-page killing
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Paranormal romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
MCs age: 34 and ‘really fucking old’
Catching Mori’s eye over the top of the man’s head, I asserted my authority by mouthing the universally recognised code of siblings—even demonic ones. Dibs.
Lounging on the balcony railing surrounding the VIP area, I loosely held my whisky on the rocks in one hand as I perused my options for the evening.
⬆️
*gag*
Big yuck. Just me?
I cuddled him closer, my chest hurting at how touch-deprived he was. If Oscar wanted me to carry him around like a baby koala all day, then you could bet your arse that was what I would do.
Yet another reread in hopes of actually continuing and finishing the series this time around. Cross your fingers and toes, lol.
I woke up with all the fun emotions. Shame. Anxiety. Bitterness. Fear. It wasn’t the first time, and it wouldn’t be the last. Before Joe, I didn’t exactly bounce out of bed, but I also didn’t wake up wishing I hadn’t.
I really like Cal and Oscar together, and how sweet they are. They bond over romance books ffs. Swoon. Cal is a sweet and gentle soul, you know, considering he’s actually a prince of hell, lol.
You don’t want to get off the sofa? I’ll sit with you. You’re having an anxiety attack? I’ll talk you through it. No matter what you’re thinking or going through, I’ll be at your side. Nothing about you can scare me away. That’s the good thing about demons. Your darkness cannot contend with mine.”
I think the past trauma for Oscar was handled well, and it was a good way to build the relationship between the MCs. This is definitely a book I would recommend if you enjoy (urban) paranormal romance, as well as a solid dose of hurt/comfort. It’s not 5 stars for me because I think it’s a touch longer than needed. It kinda drags in a few spots, which is probably why it took me longer than excpected to finish it both times I read it. It’s really good, but not quite captivating, ya’know? Well, not to me, anyway. Love the writing tho.
Sweeping my eyes down over his sharp suit, I gulped as my gaze caught on the sizable bulge against his thigh. I was both massively aroused and suitably terrified by what he was packing.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Paranormal
Demon/human
Fated mates
Prince of hell
Hookup to lovers
Age gap
Size difference
Hurt/comfort
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Emotional abuse (past)
Domestic violence (past)
Panic attacks
Graphic violence
Explicit sexual content
Casual references to torture
Flashbacks (abuse)
Physical assault (on page)
On-page killing
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Paranormal romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
MCs age: 34 and ‘really fucking old’
Catching Mori’s eye over the top of the man’s head, I asserted my authority by mouthing the universally recognised code of siblings—even demonic ones. Dibs.
Lounging on the balcony railing surrounding the VIP area, I loosely held my whisky on the rocks in one hand as I perused my options for the evening.
⬆️
*gag*
Big yuck. Just me?
November 8, 2022
"The shadows are lurking, but you're enough to keep them away. So long as I have you at my side, I can live in the light."
I totally loved everything about Devil's Mark by debut author Lark Taylor - yep, you read that right this is her first book and it was AMAZING. The writing, the world building, the character development and the romance elements were all spot on.
PNR fantasy used to be my go-to read; now throw in the MM romance element (hot as hell) and I am back in the game!
Our MCs are Cal (demon) and Oscar (human) and they are just totally divine together. The story revolves around Cal and his demon brothers trying to avoid being dragged back to Hell at dad Lucifer's behest, while also trying to prevent Hell on earth becoming a reality. And then Cal falls for Oscar and all bets are off.....
The side characters are fabulous too - I adored the brothers Harlow, Mori and Dagon plus Oscar's bestie Bailey, and I totally can not wait for Harlow and Bailey's book, Devil May Care.
Highly recommended ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I totally loved everything about Devil's Mark by debut author Lark Taylor - yep, you read that right this is her first book and it was AMAZING. The writing, the world building, the character development and the romance elements were all spot on.
PNR fantasy used to be my go-to read; now throw in the MM romance element (hot as hell) and I am back in the game!
Our MCs are Cal (demon) and Oscar (human) and they are just totally divine together. The story revolves around Cal and his demon brothers trying to avoid being dragged back to Hell at dad Lucifer's behest, while also trying to prevent Hell on earth becoming a reality. And then Cal falls for Oscar and all bets are off.....
The side characters are fabulous too - I adored the brothers Harlow, Mori and Dagon plus Oscar's bestie Bailey, and I totally can not wait for Harlow and Bailey's book, Devil May Care.
Highly recommended ⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 27, 2024
The smile I had while reading this book, the warmth I felt in every part of me, the pain I felt deep in my heart... this book was PERFECT!
I can't believe this is a debut novel. Lark Taylor, I can feel how she will be one of my favorite authors.
❤️ English teacher who loves reading (not just reading, but reading MM romance!!!)
❤️ four demon brothers
❤️ a bookshop
❤️ angels
❤️ soulmates
Is this not enough to convince you to read?
How about this: I laughed so hard from the very first chapter! The POSSESSIVENESS! The protective way Cal treated Oscar. The heart-wrenching and so real feelings of Oscar. The tender moments that tugged at my heartstrings. The beautiful and warm moments when it felt like someone was wrapping his hands around me in a gentle hug. The spicy moments were so hot. And so much more.
Honestly, no matter what I say about this book, it will not be enough. It took me more than a week to write this review and I still can't find the words to do this book justice.
The brothers were terrific! The way they treated each other was often hilarious. Them being demons was EVERYTHING! Their powers... qwidla, I LOVED IT!
Cal, oh my... can you see the hearts in my eyes!? Cal has my heart and soul! I don't want to say more because I don't want to give spoilers. But let me tell you, he is now one of my ultimate book boyfriends.
Oscar... my heart broke for you. The trauma he went through the consequences of everything he went through. I'm astonished by Lark Taylor because every scene connected with that was so painfully real. I'm happy, so happy Oscar found Cal. Seeing them together made my heart ache in the most beautiful way.
P.S.
I'm so ready for Harlow's book.
Though, I feel my favorite brother will be Dagon. I CAN'T WAIT FOR HIS BOOK!!!
Devil's Mark is now one of my favorite books right there with Sons of the Fallen, and Savage Rivals. (this says a lot about this book for those of you who know me.) ❤️❤️❤️
I can't believe this is a debut novel. Lark Taylor, I can feel how she will be one of my favorite authors.
❤️ English teacher who loves reading (not just reading, but reading MM romance!!!)
❤️ four demon brothers
❤️ a bookshop
❤️ angels
❤️ soulmates
Is this not enough to convince you to read?
How about this: I laughed so hard from the very first chapter! The POSSESSIVENESS! The protective way Cal treated Oscar. The heart-wrenching and so real feelings of Oscar. The tender moments that tugged at my heartstrings. The beautiful and warm moments when it felt like someone was wrapping his hands around me in a gentle hug. The spicy moments were so hot. And so much more.
"Sweetheart, if you were in danger, the whole of Hell wouldn't be enough to stop me from getting to you."
Honestly, no matter what I say about this book, it will not be enough. It took me more than a week to write this review and I still can't find the words to do this book justice.
The brothers were terrific! The way they treated each other was often hilarious. Them being demons was EVERYTHING! Their powers... qwidla, I LOVED IT!
Cal, oh my... can you see the hearts in my eyes!? Cal has my heart and soul! I don't want to say more because I don't want to give spoilers. But let me tell you, he is now one of my ultimate book boyfriends.
Oscar... my heart broke for you. The trauma he went through the consequences of everything he went through. I'm astonished by Lark Taylor because every scene connected with that was so painfully real. I'm happy, so happy Oscar found Cal. Seeing them together made my heart ache in the most beautiful way.
Put it this way: I didn't earn my reputation as the butcher of the ninth circle with my words.
"And I'm telling you that you deserve the world, and I'll keep telling you that until you believe me. You don't want to get off the sofa? I'll sit with you. You're having an anxiety attack? I'll talk you through it. No matter what you're thinking or going through, I'll be at your side. Nothing about you can scare me away. That's the good thing about demons. Your darkness cannot contend with mine."
P.S.
"Morning, my fellow fire-breathing bitch queens!"
I'm so ready for Harlow's book.
Though, I feel my favorite brother will be Dagon. I CAN'T WAIT FOR HIS BOOK!!!
Devil's Mark is now one of my favorite books right there with Sons of the Fallen, and Savage Rivals. (this says a lot about this book for those of you who know me.) ❤️❤️❤️
July 4, 2022
This book was such a delightful surprise and wow, what a great debut book! I'm ready for book 2 now please lol
Cal is a demon prince living on Earth with his brothers. He's happy to run his bookshop and take in all the earthly pleasures, but when he sees Oscar for the first time, everything changes for him. Oscar is recovering from a horribly abusive relationship and still struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and confidence.
Fans of hurt/comfort, you are going to want to put this book on your radar and read it pronto! Cal is just such a sweet caretaker under all that bad ass demon exterior. I love how sweet, caring, and nurturing he was with Oscar. I love how he helped Oscar through his panic attacks. He was patient and supportive and I absolutely loved all the feels that these two brought out when they were together.
The chemistry between Cal and Oscar was great too! Gotta love a bit of size difference and possessive - but not in a bad way! - type vibes. Cal had very much "touch him and you die" vibes, which works when you're the son of Lucifer lol.
I also really loved Cal's brothers - OMG I can't wait for their stories. Harlow with all his jokes and sass, I cannot wait for his book! The author did a great job introducing new characters and showing all their personalities and getting me eager for their own books.
I can't wait for more in this series and this author.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Cal is a demon prince living on Earth with his brothers. He's happy to run his bookshop and take in all the earthly pleasures, but when he sees Oscar for the first time, everything changes for him. Oscar is recovering from a horribly abusive relationship and still struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and confidence.
Fans of hurt/comfort, you are going to want to put this book on your radar and read it pronto! Cal is just such a sweet caretaker under all that bad ass demon exterior. I love how sweet, caring, and nurturing he was with Oscar. I love how he helped Oscar through his panic attacks. He was patient and supportive and I absolutely loved all the feels that these two brought out when they were together.
The chemistry between Cal and Oscar was great too! Gotta love a bit of size difference and possessive - but not in a bad way! - type vibes. Cal had very much "touch him and you die" vibes, which works when you're the son of Lucifer lol.
I also really loved Cal's brothers - OMG I can't wait for their stories. Harlow with all his jokes and sass, I cannot wait for his book! The author did a great job introducing new characters and showing all their personalities and getting me eager for their own books.
I can't wait for more in this series and this author.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2023
3.5 stars
Based on the synopsis, I didn't realise how sweet Devil's Mark 's romance was going to be. Between Cal and his brothers being demons and Oscar's ex nearing the end of his prison sentence for trying to murder him, is a sweet romance. Almost a bit too saccharine at times.
An interesting paranormal world. I think each book so going to follow a different demon brother and I'm excited to get to the next one.
Based on the synopsis, I didn't realise how sweet Devil's Mark 's romance was going to be. Between Cal and his brothers being demons and Oscar's ex nearing the end of his prison sentence for trying to murder him, is a sweet romance. Almost a bit too saccharine at times.
An interesting paranormal world. I think each book so going to follow a different demon brother and I'm excited to get to the next one.
July 8, 2022
"That's the good thing about demons. Your darkness cannot contend with mine."
What an unexpected absolute delight. Sometimes you take a chance on new to you author and it doesn't pan out. I can happily say that was far from the case here. This book had a ton of elements I love. PNR, humor, snark, brotherly banter, and a found family element to wrap it up. Oh and lots of steamy sex with a demon who is quite the possessive gentleman. Did I forget to mention that first?
"If you were mine, if you accepted the bond, I would never let you go. You would become the focus of my life, the being I would put before all others."
I mean holy swoon. Poor Oscar has got baggage up the wazoo and barely leaves his house. Luckily for him, when his bestie Bailey finally convinces him to hit the town, he runs into none other than Cal, one of the demon princes of hell. Only he has no idea the man is a demon. Just that he's sex on legs. Cal, who has never really given two shits about humans before is hit with a whammy of his own. Something about the human Oscar calls to him like no other being has before. From there it all spirals into a dramatic courting affair that more often than not ventures into hilarity. Cal's brothers are definitely a hoot and added a ton of enjoyment to the story. I mean one is a slutty demon twink, enough said. Speaking of said slutty twink, his story is next and I am foaming at the mouth to get my hands on it. It's gunna be a long 4 months til November after this one.
What an unexpected absolute delight. Sometimes you take a chance on new to you author and it doesn't pan out. I can happily say that was far from the case here. This book had a ton of elements I love. PNR, humor, snark, brotherly banter, and a found family element to wrap it up. Oh and lots of steamy sex with a demon who is quite the possessive gentleman. Did I forget to mention that first?
"If you were mine, if you accepted the bond, I would never let you go. You would become the focus of my life, the being I would put before all others."
I mean holy swoon. Poor Oscar has got baggage up the wazoo and barely leaves his house. Luckily for him, when his bestie Bailey finally convinces him to hit the town, he runs into none other than Cal, one of the demon princes of hell. Only he has no idea the man is a demon. Just that he's sex on legs. Cal, who has never really given two shits about humans before is hit with a whammy of his own. Something about the human Oscar calls to him like no other being has before. From there it all spirals into a dramatic courting affair that more often than not ventures into hilarity. Cal's brothers are definitely a hoot and added a ton of enjoyment to the story. I mean one is a slutty demon twink, enough said. Speaking of said slutty twink, his story is next and I am foaming at the mouth to get my hands on it. It's gunna be a long 4 months til November after this one.
September 9, 2023
I am slowly branching out of my MM contemporary zone and trying out some new genres. I decided to give this series a try after reading White Noise by this author and I’m so glad I did! I absolutely loved everything about this book.
Cal was just 😍😍😍! That describes everything you need to know about him! This is pretty much a fated mates, I don’t care about anyone but my brothers and you. Super protective and possessive. Can’t go wrong!
Oscar was such a great character. I loved seeing him grow throughout the book as Cal encouraged him to do the things he loves again and to believe in himself! These two were so great together. I’m also a sucker for an MC being held and carried all the time!
There is definitely more to this book than just a romance. There are some side issues that need to be worked out and I loved how it all was handled. We got a bit of a glimpse of Harlow and Bailey who are the MCs for book 2 and I’m super intrigued on what happens with their story. Can’t wait to start book 2 and work my way through this series!
Cal was just 😍😍😍! That describes everything you need to know about him! This is pretty much a fated mates, I don’t care about anyone but my brothers and you. Super protective and possessive. Can’t go wrong!
Oscar was such a great character. I loved seeing him grow throughout the book as Cal encouraged him to do the things he loves again and to believe in himself! These two were so great together. I’m also a sucker for an MC being held and carried all the time!
There is definitely more to this book than just a romance. There are some side issues that need to be worked out and I loved how it all was handled. We got a bit of a glimpse of Harlow and Bailey who are the MCs for book 2 and I’m super intrigued on what happens with their story. Can’t wait to start book 2 and work my way through this series!
August 20, 2024
⊹ ⁺ ₊ ✧
Devil’s Mark
┊
3 stars
✧ ₊ ⁺ ⊹
☆₊⋆ → thoughts┊Cute, but the story didn’t grip me😕
✧⋄⋆ pre-read notes ⋆⋄✧
⤷ 25/07/24 ┊Starting this book JUST to show Molly I can start a book I said I was gonna read 🫡
paused: 14%
⤷ 03/08/24 ┊I’m just not in the mood rn 😔🫣
౨ৎ happy reading ౨ৎ
∘₊✧ ── "It’s scary, but you need to get out there. The only way to get your life back is to grab it with both hands." ── ✧₊∘
☆₊⋆ → thoughts┊Cute, but the story didn’t grip me😕
✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄☆⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧
✧⋄⋆ pre-read notes ⋆⋄✧
⤷ 25/07/24 ┊Starting this book JUST to show Molly I can start a book I said I was gonna read 🫡
paused: 14%
⤷ 03/08/24 ┊I’m just not in the mood rn 😔🫣
౨ৎ happy reading ౨ৎ
November 6, 2023
✰4 stars✰
I’ll be honest, I’ve had the literal week from hell last week with research for dissertation and I needed a series that was for vibes only. I was in the depths of research hell and I figured, Hey, why not read a book about literal demons from Hell to keep these vibes going.
I didn’t need sustenance, I didn’t need a huge plot, I just wanted to feel something.
I’m writing this review in retrospect of reading the whole series for two reasons, one I just didn’t have the time to sit and write one and two because I binged it so fast it’s the only way this was going to work out for me. I recommend going and reading the other reviews I did of this series.
Book 1 - Devil's Mark : this review
Book 2 - Devil May Care : review here
Book 3 - Deal With the Devil : review here
Book 4 - Luck of the Devil : review here
If you know me or have read a lot of my reviews, then you know how much of a sucker I can be for fated mates.
Oscar and Cal delivered that for me. Was it cringy at times? Sure. Was it cheesy? Sure. Maybe a little saccharine? Sure. But again, I was going for no thoughts and just vibes this week and I really enjoyed this.
I also think that by reading the entire series back to back, I actually got a pretty decent plot line. There is sort of a pending doom/continuing arc as we move through the books and each brothers story, so even though I wasn’t requiring a plot, I got one any way by continuing through and I actually was super into it.
Despite being about Princes of Hell it’s actually pretty fluffy and light, aside from a few key points that you should definitely check your trigger warnings about.
I was obsessed. And that was a dangerous place for a demon to be.
I’ll be honest, I’ve had the literal week from hell last week with research for dissertation and I needed a series that was for vibes only. I was in the depths of research hell and I figured, Hey, why not read a book about literal demons from Hell to keep these vibes going.
I didn’t need sustenance, I didn’t need a huge plot, I just wanted to feel something.
I’m writing this review in retrospect of reading the whole series for two reasons, one I just didn’t have the time to sit and write one and two because I binged it so fast it’s the only way this was going to work out for me. I recommend going and reading the other reviews I did of this series.
Book 1 - Devil's Mark : this review
Book 2 - Devil May Care : review here
Book 3 - Deal With the Devil : review here
Book 4 - Luck of the Devil : review here
If you know me or have read a lot of my reviews, then you know how much of a sucker I can be for fated mates.
Oscar and Cal delivered that for me. Was it cringy at times? Sure. Was it cheesy? Sure. Maybe a little saccharine? Sure. But again, I was going for no thoughts and just vibes this week and I really enjoyed this.
I also think that by reading the entire series back to back, I actually got a pretty decent plot line. There is sort of a pending doom/continuing arc as we move through the books and each brothers story, so even though I wasn’t requiring a plot, I got one any way by continuing through and I actually was super into it.
Despite being about Princes of Hell it’s actually pretty fluffy and light, aside from a few key points that you should definitely check your trigger warnings about.
May 17, 2023
I know I’m in the minority as of right now with my review and rating. I felt like the first half of the book was a bit monotonous. The author keeps reiterating the same information over and over again about Oscar‘s ex-boyfriend and how Oscar is scared to let anyone in and also with how Cal feels once he gives Oscar his mark. I felt like there wasn’t much happening it was just all talk of feelings. I just found that I needed a break at the 40% mark because I was getting bored.
What I think the author got spot on was the world building and how they’ve created new characters that are interesting. Having Cal and his brothers be demons that are now living on the earth is a fun concept that works really well with the possessiveness that Cal feels for Oscar. What I really appreciated was that even though Cal was possessive of Oscar, Oscar was still his own person and he spoke up for himself. Cal was very sensitive towards Oscar‘s feelings and his situation and I really appreciated that.
The brothers working together were a highlight of the book for me. How they all helped each other and accepted Oscar as part of their family right away and were there to help him immediately was heartwarming. I loved the sibling dynamic.
Even though I never felt like the story got that exciting I think this is the start of a series that will continue to grow and evolve. I’m interested in the next stories.
**ARC provided for review
**All thoughts and opinions are my own
What I think the author got spot on was the world building and how they’ve created new characters that are interesting. Having Cal and his brothers be demons that are now living on the earth is a fun concept that works really well with the possessiveness that Cal feels for Oscar. What I really appreciated was that even though Cal was possessive of Oscar, Oscar was still his own person and he spoke up for himself. Cal was very sensitive towards Oscar‘s feelings and his situation and I really appreciated that.
The brothers working together were a highlight of the book for me. How they all helped each other and accepted Oscar as part of their family right away and were there to help him immediately was heartwarming. I loved the sibling dynamic.
Even though I never felt like the story got that exciting I think this is the start of a series that will continue to grow and evolve. I’m interested in the next stories.
**ARC provided for review
**All thoughts and opinions are my own
October 17, 2022
This was cute!
I'm definitely intrigued and want to read more about these demon brothers.
The relationship is cute, adorable, posessive and otherwise pretty fluffy. So if you like that sort of thing, go for it.
I'm definitely intrigued and want to read more about these demon brothers.
The relationship is cute, adorable, posessive and otherwise pretty fluffy. So if you like that sort of thing, go for it.
February 11, 2024
“You chose to fight for your life. Not many humans would have been brave enough brave enough to do that when a demon had them pinned to the wall. ”
Este es el primer libro que debería haber leído de esta autora y no su Spin-Off, Patience.
“Do you consider yourself to be evil?”
Me ha gustado mucho, la verdad. Si es verdad que no está tan bien escrito como los últimos, pero sabe como atraparte desde las primeras páginas. No voy a negar que me he enganchado y me ha sorprendido para bien pues pensaba que iba a ser mucho más pobre tanto de personajes como argumento.
Qué equivocada estaba.
A por el siguiente.
Este es el primer libro que debería haber leído de esta autora y no su Spin-Off, Patience.
“Do you consider yourself to be evil?”
Me ha gustado mucho, la verdad. Si es verdad que no está tan bien escrito como los últimos, pero sabe como atraparte desde las primeras páginas. No voy a negar que me he enganchado y me ha sorprendido para bien pues pensaba que iba a ser mucho más pobre tanto de personajes como argumento.
Qué equivocada estaba.
A por el siguiente.
dnf
June 6, 2024Stopping @24%
I don't know. I'm just not feeling this at all. It's boring.
I don't know. I'm just not feeling this at all. It's boring.
May 19, 2024
Audio: 4.5 stars, took me a bit to get in to Dan Calley and Joel Leslie’s narration, but in the end i started to enjoy it!
Book: 4 stars
Idk what it is about these books, but it’s an easy read that will have you smiling as well as make you want a demon to mark you for their own!
I am really looking forward to Harlow and Bailey’s book now!
Book: 4 stars
Idk what it is about these books, but it’s an easy read that will have you smiling as well as make you want a demon to mark you for their own!
I am really looking forward to Harlow and Bailey’s book now!
July 31, 2022
I loved this!… and that's saying a lot considering that stories involving angels and demons rarely get more than a 3 star rating from me. The characters, the world building, the plot, the writing style, the romance… all of it worked for me and I found myself liking the story more and more as it progressed. Cal and Oscar’s relationship was beautiful and I absolutely melted every time Cal called Oscar sweetheart. Even though their relationship was more on the insta side I thought it was handled well. The way that Cal helped Oscar rediscover his worth as an individual and his right to a loving relationship was so satisfying to read. I can’t wait for Harlow’s story. 4.5 stars
Read
June 21, 2025Listened to the audiobook for a reread! Cal is the best😌
Original Review:
Cal…Cal the love of my life. This man (demon)🥹❤️
I recently got into paranormal books and when i stumbled into this I was immediately intrigued.
This book was everything! I absolutely adored the characters, the plot, the romance, the banter! I think it might be safe to say that it was my favourite book ever.
Cal is my new standard for what a book man should be! I loved the series in general but Cal will forever be my man! My understanding black feathered demon🥹❤️
Oscar was a cutiepie and everything he went through was so unfair. I am so happy that he found Cal and grew so much as a character! He became so much more open and brave and his stern teacher voice will subduing the boys will forever be funny to me!
I love them as a couple. So well suited!
And the plot!!! It kept me invested that’s for sure. I had to know more. The world building was very well done and easy to follow. I absolutely devoured it!
Overall this book is everything to me! ❤️❤️❤️
Original Review:
Cal…Cal the love of my life. This man (demon)🥹❤️
I recently got into paranormal books and when i stumbled into this I was immediately intrigued.
This book was everything! I absolutely adored the characters, the plot, the romance, the banter! I think it might be safe to say that it was my favourite book ever.
Cal is my new standard for what a book man should be! I loved the series in general but Cal will forever be my man! My understanding black feathered demon🥹❤️
Oscar was a cutiepie and everything he went through was so unfair. I am so happy that he found Cal and grew so much as a character! He became so much more open and brave and his stern teacher voice will subduing the boys will forever be funny to me!
I love them as a couple. So well suited!
And the plot!!! It kept me invested that’s for sure. I had to know more. The world building was very well done and easy to follow. I absolutely devoured it!
Overall this book is everything to me! ❤️❤️❤️
January 2, 2023
Dnf at 70%
Sucks that the first book I read in 2023 is a dnf but I just couldn’t do it anymore. This book is so fucking boring. 70 percent into this book and nothing is happening. It’s insta love (which I hate), the dialogue is boring, the dirty talk is cringey, and the plot is slow.
Crazy thing that happened tho is that I was thinking about how this book reminded me of unhinged by Onley James (a book I dnfed at 25%) because of how fast the characters are obsessed with each other with no real reason besides “fate”, just for it to be mentioned as one of the main characters favorite books… 🤦♂️
Sucks that the first book I read in 2023 is a dnf but I just couldn’t do it anymore. This book is so fucking boring. 70 percent into this book and nothing is happening. It’s insta love (which I hate), the dialogue is boring, the dirty talk is cringey, and the plot is slow.
Crazy thing that happened tho is that I was thinking about how this book reminded me of unhinged by Onley James (a book I dnfed at 25%) because of how fast the characters are obsessed with each other with no real reason besides “fate”, just for it to be mentioned as one of the main characters favorite books… 🤦♂️
July 26, 2022
So good! The couple felt so natural
September 15, 2022
A great new author to dive into and one I will be reading in the future.
Overall, I enjoyed this so much. In this world, God is real and so is Lucifer. In this, he has 4 sons, all - except one - who have rejected Hell for 100 years and choose to live "top side" on Earth only. The thing is, they can't return to Hell unless they want to be trapped down there for eternity, or killed by their own father.
The oldest brother is Cal, who is determined not to get attached to any human. The only ones he's let close are his three brothers. Instead, he just has casual hook-ups.
But then Oscar walks into the club on of his brothers owns, and changes his life completely.
There is definitely insta-love in this, but it's done is a really well done way. And even though the connection is big from the offset, and they can't stay away, it does take some time to build their relationship together and to really get to know each other before making a big commitment of forever to each other.
But Cal goes from now really caring about any humans except casual sex, to being utterly devoted to Oscar pretty quickly.
But I felt like all that could be forgiven because Cal isn't just a human, he's a supernatural being. He's a demon, the son of Lucifer, and all angels, demon's, etc, have a Mark they can bestow upon someone, something they can only give once, in their entire immortal lives, so it's not something to give lightly.
But Cal does it without much thought not long after meeting Oscar.
Thing is, Oscar has to accept the bond for for it to go both ways. So the book takes its time in getting Oscar to that place Cal is basically already at shortly after them meeting. Even if Oscar rejected the bond, Cal could never love another like he loves Oscar, and he'd be forever tied to him, wanting to protect him at all costs, and he would die with Oscar does, if Oscar rejected the bond. But if Oscar accepts, he too would live forever.
I loved the connection between these two, and their chemistry.
My only beefs, really, come mostly near the end. That being, I felt like things were resolved way too easily, for everyone.
Oscar also has a sad, angst-y past, in that he was emotionally and physically abused by an ex, who is jail, but not for much longer. He's a hanging threat, but once he comes in at the very end, he's way too easily to deal with, and it's almost a non-event.
Also the main plot point is that Lucifer wants Cal to come back to Hell, to help him stop a potential uprising in Hell, and as incentive, he uses the third brother who is still in Hell for reasons we don't 100% get the answers of, as someone he'd kill if Cal doesn't do what he wants.
But Cal doesn't want to go back to Hell, and he if he does he could be stuck there or killed by him if he returned.
It's this whole angst-y thing of "what are we gonna do" for most of this book, and then they come up with a solution that an archangel (who is totally going to be that third brother's LI) suggests. Which makes me think - why didn't think they themselves think of it? These are three smart demons. But for 100 years, they didn't? Then they go through with the plan and it all gets solved within a day - less than that, hours.
They all end up in Hell, but just at the very edge, and none of the "Higher Demons" come to try to stop them, not Lucifer himself, it's all "Lower Demons" and while it's tough, it's not that hard. And then they get their brother and leave all is hunky-dory.
It just felt way too easy to me. All this build-up, and time wasted and all this worry, for...barely anything? Like yeah, there is some angst and "omg what's gonna happen" but then it gets solved way too easily.
I wish the problems had felt like more was at stake, and that real sacrifice had to be made - or at least, they had to go through real hardship. Otherwise, it was all pretty simple and easy and over with too quickly and wrapped up in a neat little bow. I just wanted more from the drama we got.
I loved what it meant for Oscar's character development and everything - the thing with his abuser ex - but still, it was....a non-event.
I think having it be more high stakes would have felt more edge-of-your-seat and more of a page turner.
But still, I loved the rest of this, and loved the chemistry between our main couple, and for a debut novel, this was very strong overall. Definitely worth a read.
Just some areas it could have been improved, and this could have easily been a 5 star read. But it's still highly enjoyable and worth checking out.
I highly recommend it!
Can't wait for the next in this series, about Harlow and Bailey. Very curious as to why, in the epilogue that is 6 months later, these two seem to be at odds. Will be very interesting to read that. And these two playboys falling in love with each other when they least expected it 😉
Overall, I enjoyed this so much. In this world, God is real and so is Lucifer. In this, he has 4 sons, all - except one - who have rejected Hell for 100 years and choose to live "top side" on Earth only. The thing is, they can't return to Hell unless they want to be trapped down there for eternity, or killed by their own father.
The oldest brother is Cal, who is determined not to get attached to any human. The only ones he's let close are his three brothers. Instead, he just has casual hook-ups.
But then Oscar walks into the club on of his brothers owns, and changes his life completely.
There is definitely insta-love in this, but it's done is a really well done way. And even though the connection is big from the offset, and they can't stay away, it does take some time to build their relationship together and to really get to know each other before making a big commitment of forever to each other.
But Cal goes from now really caring about any humans except casual sex, to being utterly devoted to Oscar pretty quickly.
But I felt like all that could be forgiven because Cal isn't just a human, he's a supernatural being. He's a demon, the son of Lucifer, and all angels, demon's, etc, have a Mark they can bestow upon someone, something they can only give once, in their entire immortal lives, so it's not something to give lightly.
But Cal does it without much thought not long after meeting Oscar.
Thing is, Oscar has to accept the bond for for it to go both ways. So the book takes its time in getting Oscar to that place Cal is basically already at shortly after them meeting. Even if Oscar rejected the bond, Cal could never love another like he loves Oscar, and he'd be forever tied to him, wanting to protect him at all costs, and he would die with Oscar does, if Oscar rejected the bond. But if Oscar accepts, he too would live forever.
I loved the connection between these two, and their chemistry.
My only beefs, really, come mostly near the end. That being, I felt like things were resolved way too easily, for everyone.
Oscar also has a sad, angst-y past, in that he was emotionally and physically abused by an ex, who is jail, but not for much longer. He's a hanging threat, but once he comes in at the very end, he's way too easily to deal with, and it's almost a non-event.
Also the main plot point is that Lucifer wants Cal to come back to Hell, to help him stop a potential uprising in Hell, and as incentive, he uses the third brother who is still in Hell for reasons we don't 100% get the answers of, as someone he'd kill if Cal doesn't do what he wants.
But Cal doesn't want to go back to Hell, and he if he does he could be stuck there or killed by him if he returned.
It's this whole angst-y thing of "what are we gonna do" for most of this book, and then they come up with a solution that an archangel (who is totally going to be that third brother's LI) suggests. Which makes me think - why didn't think they themselves think of it? These are three smart demons. But for 100 years, they didn't? Then they go through with the plan and it all gets solved within a day - less than that, hours.
They all end up in Hell, but just at the very edge, and none of the "Higher Demons" come to try to stop them, not Lucifer himself, it's all "Lower Demons" and while it's tough, it's not that hard. And then they get their brother and leave all is hunky-dory.
It just felt way too easy to me. All this build-up, and time wasted and all this worry, for...barely anything? Like yeah, there is some angst and "omg what's gonna happen" but then it gets solved way too easily.
I wish the problems had felt like more was at stake, and that real sacrifice had to be made - or at least, they had to go through real hardship. Otherwise, it was all pretty simple and easy and over with too quickly and wrapped up in a neat little bow. I just wanted more from the drama we got.
I loved what it meant for Oscar's character development and everything - the thing with his abuser ex - but still, it was....a non-event.
I think having it be more high stakes would have felt more edge-of-your-seat and more of a page turner.
But still, I loved the rest of this, and loved the chemistry between our main couple, and for a debut novel, this was very strong overall. Definitely worth a read.
Just some areas it could have been improved, and this could have easily been a 5 star read. But it's still highly enjoyable and worth checking out.
I highly recommend it!
Can't wait for the next in this series, about Harlow and Bailey. Very curious as to why, in the epilogue that is 6 months later, these two seem to be at odds. Will be very interesting to read that. And these two playboys falling in love with each other when they least expected it 😉
September 3, 2023
I'd been so excited to read this series & I'm finally binging it 🥰.
A MM paranormal romance b/w Demon & Human — 2 bookworms! Good intro to series, Loved Cal & Oscar, devoured this in 8hrs. I started my September with this!
Cal is the eldest of his brothers, "Princes of hell" Demon. They've been on earth for quite some time. Possessive, dangerous yet so sweet & tender to Oscar; the eternal commitment phobe changed. Loved the sassy brothers!
Oscar is a human with emotional trauma due to his (asshole, bastard!!) Abusive ex. Shy, introvert untill he opens up, then he's headstrong & playful. I like his bestie & sis!
Cal's a suit-loving bookshop owner, Oscar's a English teacher (in England!) & an avid reader (book cameos!): Perfect match. Men after my heart 😍. From the moment they met at Mori's club, it's a connection-at-1st-sight. A hookup to so much more. Some Fated Mates magic that they hadn't realised then!
As the story unfolds after C gives O his mark (Yo 🥺🤭), O & the secret of supes 😏, their pasts 🥺, present insecurities 😭, Slow & fast, the world & it's rules, the action 😈. It's so interesting! I loved to see C+O together, uplifting, how C takes care of O during anxiety attacks & O pushes C to be better. The steamy times are hot too 😍. Omg, so sexy how C worships O's body & O let's C take charge!
The hell summons & plan to save Dagon gave this story the suspense, thrill kick. The climax's heart-racing & ending's swoony. Immediate threat cleared, but there's that rebellion still. Excited to read O's bestie Bailey & C's bro Harlow's book!
Story ratings: (Enjoyed 5+/5)
POV: 1st Person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & relationships: 5/5
2) The feels: 🥺🤭😳😣😏🤯😈🥰🤨🥵🥴🤓😍
3) Story & world: 4.8/5
4) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3/5
5) Levels: Mildish Angst (mostly external), so Cute, Mild Dark (domestic abuse by ex & paranormal killing stuff)
6) Writing style: 4.7/5
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A MM paranormal romance b/w Demon & Human — 2 bookworms! Good intro to series, Loved Cal & Oscar, devoured this in 8hrs. I started my September with this!
Cal is the eldest of his brothers, "Princes of hell" Demon. They've been on earth for quite some time. Possessive, dangerous yet so sweet & tender to Oscar; the eternal commitment phobe changed. Loved the sassy brothers!
Oscar is a human with emotional trauma due to his (asshole, bastard!!) Abusive ex. Shy, introvert untill he opens up, then he's headstrong & playful. I like his bestie & sis!
Cal's a suit-loving bookshop owner, Oscar's a English teacher (in England!) & an avid reader (book cameos!): Perfect match. Men after my heart 😍. From the moment they met at Mori's club, it's a connection-at-1st-sight. A hookup to so much more. Some Fated Mates magic that they hadn't realised then!
As the story unfolds after C gives O his mark (Yo 🥺🤭), O & the secret of supes 😏, their pasts 🥺, present insecurities 😭, Slow & fast, the world & it's rules, the action 😈. It's so interesting! I loved to see C+O together, uplifting, how C takes care of O during anxiety attacks & O pushes C to be better. The steamy times are hot too 😍. Omg, so sexy how C worships O's body & O let's C take charge!
The hell summons & plan to save Dagon gave this story the suspense, thrill kick. The climax's heart-racing & ending's swoony. Immediate threat cleared, but there's that rebellion still. Excited to read O's bestie Bailey & C's bro Harlow's book!
Story ratings: (Enjoyed 5+/5)
POV: 1st Person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & relationships: 5/5
2) The feels: 🥺🤭😳😣😏🤯😈🥰🤨🥵🥴🤓😍
3) Story & world: 4.8/5
4) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3/5
5) Levels: Mildish Angst (mostly external), so Cute, Mild Dark (domestic abuse by ex & paranormal killing stuff)
6) Writing style: 4.7/5
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September 20, 2024
This is sort of a mini review since I want to review the series as a whole once I'm done.
I did enjoy reading about Oscar & Cal. I thought they were cute together. Them both being huge romance readers might have been one of my favorite parts
of the book but I can't seem to stop thinking about Micah & Nox (that's a me thing, not the book)
The ending was chef's kiss. I love a good revenge plot. I may or may not have rushed through the last few chapters
Can't decide between 4 or 5 ⭐
I did enjoy reading about Oscar & Cal. I thought they were cute together. Them both being huge romance readers might have been one of my favorite parts
of the book but I can't seem to stop thinking about Micah & Nox (that's a me thing, not the book)
The ending was chef's kiss. I love a good revenge plot. I may or may not have rushed through the last few chapters
Can't decide between 4 or 5 ⭐
November 28, 2022
3,75 stars
There is probably nothing massively refined about this, all in all, and I could easily pin-point various things that could do with further explanation, but did I care?
NOPE.
Taking this book for just what it is … great entertainment … helps with any of those issues!
I loved Cal’s massive protectiveness, and the way he so genuinely cares for Oscar. Will his love feel maybe a tad suffocating in two/three hundred or thousand years? Who knows.
I was very happy to put aside deeper thinking and just let the story unfold. Because what we get here is certainly cute, funny, sweet and very much enjoyable.
And if you should wonder how cute and sweet can be mentioned in the same breath as evil demons - for some reason, that totally worked. Cal and his brothers and their unapologetic ‘demonness’ made me chuckle on quite a few occasions. Despite their deadly powers and past ‘jobs’ they are basically all marshmallows.
And Oscar? I really liked the different sides to his character. Despite his anxiety issues and his need to feel protected, he is competent and can be quite sassy on occasion. He is certainly not shy in the bedroom, that’s for sure! I was surprised though how easily he takes the revelation that Cal is a demon.
There are some deeper (but never disturbing) thoughts on domestic abuse, and how to deal with the aftermath, which were appreciated, but some readers might feel uncomfortable with the slightly grey morality particularly towards the end
An easy, light read with some serious overtones and a cute love story.
Heading for book 2 now.
There is probably nothing massively refined about this, all in all, and I could easily pin-point various things that could do with further explanation, but did I care?
NOPE.
Taking this book for just what it is … great entertainment … helps with any of those issues!
I loved Cal’s massive protectiveness, and the way he so genuinely cares for Oscar. Will his love feel maybe a tad suffocating in two/three hundred or thousand years? Who knows.
I was very happy to put aside deeper thinking and just let the story unfold. Because what we get here is certainly cute, funny, sweet and very much enjoyable.
And if you should wonder how cute and sweet can be mentioned in the same breath as evil demons - for some reason, that totally worked. Cal and his brothers and their unapologetic ‘demonness’ made me chuckle on quite a few occasions. Despite their deadly powers and past ‘jobs’ they are basically all marshmallows.
And Oscar? I really liked the different sides to his character. Despite his anxiety issues and his need to feel protected, he is competent and can be quite sassy on occasion. He is certainly not shy in the bedroom, that’s for sure! I was surprised though how easily he takes the revelation that Cal is a demon.
There are some deeper (but never disturbing) thoughts on domestic abuse, and how to deal with the aftermath, which were appreciated, but some readers might feel uncomfortable with the slightly grey morality particularly towards the end
An easy, light read with some serious overtones and a cute love story.
Heading for book 2 now.
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