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Possessive Love
Gift for a Demon
Dave hadn’t planned on becoming a human gift to the dethroned King of Hell. Overlooked and castaway, Dave had to learn how to protect himself and fight his own battles. Of course, no one taught him how to survive in Hell, if that was even where he was. Melchom had once ruled over Hell until a human betrayed and stole his crown. Now Hell’s paymaster and with the scars to show for it, he’s vowed not to make the same mistakes. But how could he say no to the most enticing man he’d ever seen? One who offered up his fear for Melchom to feast on so willingly? It’s not an issue of chemistry. Hell is a complex ecosystem, and there are more forces and prophecies in place than either of them could’ve ever foreseen.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2023
42 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 8, 2023
1.5 stars. See, the rating here definitely reflects my own irritation more than it does a dislike of the book, or an opinion that the book is objectively bad. It's really not! But um, I was definitely really irritated. This is the second book I've read from this author, and I really wasn't expecting to like it SO much less than the first one, which I thought had so much promise. And unless I'm remembering incorrectly, all of the issues I had with this book weren't present in that first book I read from her either. So this was pretty unfortunate.
It's a paranormal romance between a young man and the demon that he's been sacrificed to. Dave finds himself in hell after a ritual performed by some of his friends, a gift for a powerful demon. I loved this premise; seemed like a great start to a captor/captive romance. I liked a lot of the foundational details, like Dave's mental illness and the fact that his brain doesn't work like everyone else's, and his fem presentation. But the writing was just... so so DULL. There is a lack of detail on every single level that I think an author might be able to get away with in a regular contemporary romance. But in a paranormal romance like this, in a setting like this, the fact that practically nothing was described just... really bothered me haha. A bulk of the romance takes place in one room in hell, and the only thing we know about the room is that there's a bed in it, the bed has nice sheets, and there's an adjoining bathroom. Seriously. No atmosphere, no ambiance, apart from a couple of mentions of hellfire outside. I really felt like I couldn't picture anything, and that in turn made the bits of world-building we got feel really flimsy. Even when it came to hell itself, and the mansion/castle/whatever they were housed in, we learnt so few things about it. That was so frustrating to me. Subjective, perhaps, but it really didn't work for me. That extended to the writing about the romance as well. I felt absolutely nothing for this couple. The idea of them, sure, that was great. But the reality was so bland; all of their interactions were written about in such a matter-of-fact way, even during the intimate scenes, that I felt no chemistry at all. I had to skim past some stuff because of some kinks that I wasn't into (it was very explicitly warned about in the beginning, but I still wanted to try the book) but even so, I don't feel like I missed anything special. It all felt perfunctory.
I don't want to start repeating myself, so I'll stop here. The book isn't a bad one; I'd still recommend it, once you check out the warnings. Other readers seem to have liked it much more than I did. Alas, the things that annoyed me about it kept repeating, and it didn't get better. The plot was boring, the world was flat, and I didn't care about the characters at all. Another example of a book I really should have given up on, but I really wanted it to get better, so I didn't DNF. I still want to try to read from this author again; hopefully it'll be better for me.
Content warnings:
It's a paranormal romance between a young man and the demon that he's been sacrificed to. Dave finds himself in hell after a ritual performed by some of his friends, a gift for a powerful demon. I loved this premise; seemed like a great start to a captor/captive romance. I liked a lot of the foundational details, like Dave's mental illness and the fact that his brain doesn't work like everyone else's, and his fem presentation. But the writing was just... so so DULL. There is a lack of detail on every single level that I think an author might be able to get away with in a regular contemporary romance. But in a paranormal romance like this, in a setting like this, the fact that practically nothing was described just... really bothered me haha. A bulk of the romance takes place in one room in hell, and the only thing we know about the room is that there's a bed in it, the bed has nice sheets, and there's an adjoining bathroom. Seriously. No atmosphere, no ambiance, apart from a couple of mentions of hellfire outside. I really felt like I couldn't picture anything, and that in turn made the bits of world-building we got feel really flimsy. Even when it came to hell itself, and the mansion/castle/whatever they were housed in, we learnt so few things about it. That was so frustrating to me. Subjective, perhaps, but it really didn't work for me. That extended to the writing about the romance as well. I felt absolutely nothing for this couple. The idea of them, sure, that was great. But the reality was so bland; all of their interactions were written about in such a matter-of-fact way, even during the intimate scenes, that I felt no chemistry at all. I had to skim past some stuff because of some kinks that I wasn't into (it was very explicitly warned about in the beginning, but I still wanted to try the book) but even so, I don't feel like I missed anything special. It all felt perfunctory.
I don't want to start repeating myself, so I'll stop here. The book isn't a bad one; I'd still recommend it, once you check out the warnings. Other readers seem to have liked it much more than I did. Alas, the things that annoyed me about it kept repeating, and it didn't get better. The plot was boring, the world was flat, and I didn't care about the characters at all. Another example of a book I really should have given up on, but I really wanted it to get better, so I didn't DNF. I still want to try to read from this author again; hopefully it'll be better for me.
Content warnings:
August 28, 2024
Great characters and fun storyline. Enjoyed the kinks - def need more romantic water sports in books, lol.
I had difficulty following the story at times which really made this more 3.5 stars, but a great story and romance can overcome quite a bit.
I had difficulty following the story at times which really made this more 3.5 stars, but a great story and romance can overcome quite a bit.
October 29, 2023
I generally avoid multi-author series like the plague. But I liked the cover. And then I peeked inside and saw the kinks, and that was all she wrote, I was sold.
I did go in with low expectation, so I’m pleased I enjoyed this as much as I did. I was worried that the thing Melcolm found so fascinating about Dove was going to be magicked away, but that didn’t happen.
I do think the plot with the prophecy, usurping and whatever Hell politics there were weren’t necessary. Especially since they weren’t well developed and were just half heartedly explained in a few paragraphs (though what prince dude’s plan was exactly was never explained). I don’t need a half assed plot like that. I would have be perfectly happy with gifted human and his fear eating demon just falling in love and fucking in hell. More plot isn’t always better.
As far as the kinks… the body modification, lingerie, fear play, size difference and watersports were well done. I could have gone for more of that (and less dumb plot).
But one of the kinks listed was ‘horn play’ and I was pretty excited for that. Unfortunately, all we get is David 1.0 giving Mel a horn job, I guess. Nothing between our actual MCs. I was hoping Dove was going to fellate the horns or something. Or that at least he would give the horn job, not the evil ex. So. Yeah. Majorly disappointed on that front.
I did go in with low expectation, so I’m pleased I enjoyed this as much as I did. I was worried that the thing Melcolm found so fascinating about Dove was going to be magicked away, but that didn’t happen.
I do think the plot with the prophecy, usurping and whatever Hell politics there were weren’t necessary. Especially since they weren’t well developed and were just half heartedly explained in a few paragraphs (though what prince dude’s plan was exactly was never explained). I don’t need a half assed plot like that. I would have be perfectly happy with gifted human and his fear eating demon just falling in love and fucking in hell. More plot isn’t always better.
As far as the kinks… the body modification, lingerie, fear play, size difference and watersports were well done. I could have gone for more of that (and less dumb plot).
But one of the kinks listed was ‘horn play’ and I was pretty excited for that. Unfortunately, all we get is David 1.0 giving Mel a horn job, I guess. Nothing between our actual MCs. I was hoping Dove was going to fellate the horns or something. Or that at least he would give the horn job, not the evil ex. So. Yeah. Majorly disappointed on that front.
October 28, 2023
Loved this book❤️ It has a little bit of everything❤️
Grumpy demon, that’s really a cinnamon roll deep down, a kinky bottom and snuggling dogs(ok hellhound..) The book is funny, sweet, full of intrigues and action ❤️
Did I say kinky?! Lots of 💦sport, big size difference, fear play and more!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Grumpy demon, that’s really a cinnamon roll deep down, a kinky bottom and snuggling dogs(ok hellhound..) The book is funny, sweet, full of intrigues and action ❤️
Did I say kinky?! Lots of 💦sport, big size difference, fear play and more!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read
August 28, 2024Mm, human/demon, size difference
CW: piss play, mentions of mental health, mentions of family drama, betrayal, death of non main character, cross dressing
Spice: yes
Plot: Dave (later called Dove) ends up in Hell as a gift to a demon
My opinion: the pacing on this was very odd but I still was curious to see what will happen next
CW: piss play, mentions of mental health, mentions of family drama, betrayal, death of non main character, cross dressing
Spice: yes
Plot: Dave (later called Dove) ends up in Hell as a gift to a demon
My opinion: the pacing on this was very odd but I still was curious to see what will happen next
September 3, 2025
September 2025
Kindle edition
My brain threw me from the story as soon as the demon revealed he wanted to piss inside his Dove. That's a nope for me and from there I struggled to get back into the story. I liked the hellhound and the little family building. But yeah no on the pee which does happen and gets mentioned a few more times.
Kindle edition
My brain threw me from the story as soon as the demon revealed he wanted to piss inside his Dove. That's a nope for me and from there I struggled to get back into the story. I liked the hellhound and the little family building. But yeah no on the pee which does happen and gets mentioned a few more times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2023
Interesting
This is an interesting addition to this multi-author series. I enjoyed reading this quite a bit.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This is an interesting addition to this multi-author series. I enjoyed reading this quite a bit.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
November 26, 2023
A MM romance with Demon Hell (former) King & his human gift falling in love! There's intrigue, mindgames, sweetness & spicy times. From the blurb, I'd wanted to read this so took #ARC. Tho, it took me days to complete due to my busy schedule, I always came back to this ⭐. Loved Dave & Melchom!
Dave is on schizophrenic spectrum, likes lingerie & his mind is fascinating to Melchom. Mel is former hell king, "big bad demon" but grows to be total teddy bear for his human 🤭. The story has a bit of Grumpy/Sunshine! These 2 are also so hot together, like omg. The lore of the hell & prophecy are pretty fascinating but felt under utilized. I wanted to explore more of them 🥺! And, can't forget a hellhound pet 🤭.
It has watersports, which I did know going in, but not to this extent (like all the way in IFKYK 🤢). So as much as I loved the story, the little world, & rest of "fear play" kink, I'm giving this a 4.75⭐. RTC!
Story Ratings:
POV: 3rd person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 4.75/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🥰🤔💕🤭😳🙄🥵😅😍😖🥺😭😡🤯❤️
4) Steamy scenes: 4/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4/5
Angst: 2.5/5
Dark: 2/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.6/5
7) Plot arc: (Love in Hell & Prophecy) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
Dave is on schizophrenic spectrum, likes lingerie & his mind is fascinating to Melchom. Mel is former hell king, "big bad demon" but grows to be total teddy bear for his human 🤭. The story has a bit of Grumpy/Sunshine! These 2 are also so hot together, like omg. The lore of the hell & prophecy are pretty fascinating but felt under utilized. I wanted to explore more of them 🥺! And, can't forget a hellhound pet 🤭.
It has watersports, which I did know going in, but not to this extent (like all the way in IFKYK 🤢). So as much as I loved the story, the little world, & rest of "fear play" kink, I'm giving this a 4.75⭐. RTC!
Story Ratings:
POV: 3rd person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 4.75/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🥰🤔💕🤭😳🙄🥵😅😍😖🥺😭😡🤯❤️
4) Steamy scenes: 4/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4/5
Angst: 2.5/5
Dark: 2/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.6/5
7) Plot arc: (Love in Hell & Prophecy) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
November 22, 2023
What a Ride...
Melchom & Dave (Dove)
Rating: 3.8 ⭐
Please pay attention to the content warnings at the beginning before deciding if you want to read this or not. I was aware and still needed a dang minute because I got overwhelmed with half the warnings in one chapter!
There's a lot of complexity to this relationship and deals with fear play in order to please both parties. Dove and the descriptions of how his brain is processing things and the "house of mirrors" was captivating from that perspective. The way that they both loved each other the way they were was exactly what the other needed to heal their inner turmoil. There's a lot in this book and some could have been touched on more and some were unnecessary to the story. This was definitely the darkest read of this multi-author series that I've read.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
Melchom & Dave (Dove)
Rating: 3.8 ⭐
Please pay attention to the content warnings at the beginning before deciding if you want to read this or not. I was aware and still needed a dang minute because I got overwhelmed with half the warnings in one chapter!
There's a lot of complexity to this relationship and deals with fear play in order to please both parties. Dove and the descriptions of how his brain is processing things and the "house of mirrors" was captivating from that perspective. The way that they both loved each other the way they were was exactly what the other needed to heal their inner turmoil. There's a lot in this book and some could have been touched on more and some were unnecessary to the story. This was definitely the darkest read of this multi-author series that I've read.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
October 17, 2023
A Gift for a Demon by Emily Alter
ARC REVIEW
A Gift for a Demon is part of a multi-author series, Possessive Love, but can be read as a standalone. I have read many of the books from this series, and I feel like it is a hit or miss. This one was a hit! It is also more on the darker side, compared to the rest of the series.
« dethroned king of hell x human »
« mind games & reading minds »
« MC on the schizophrenia spectrum »
« submission »
« fear play »
« horn play »
« lingerie »
« size difference »
« watersports »
One minute Dave is at a séance at his best friend’s insistence, next minute he was in hell and being given to Melchom as a gift and therefore his property. Melchom is the former king of hell and a demon who feeds on fear. Melchom renames Dave as Dove. I really enjoyed the development of Melchom’s character throughout the book. As the story progresses, Melchom personality is a dichotomy. He is both protective, patient, and caring, but also dominating, mocking, and sadistic.
I am not a fan of watersports, but I knew this was in the book going in. I will say that there were more scenes with this than I anticipated. No kink shame here, it just wasn’t my thing, and didn’t feel like this took away from the overall story. If anything, it fits with the characters and their dynamic. There is something primal about the couple. Dove needs to be owned and feel used by Melchom and Melchom is possessive of what is his and Dove is his. Both have a traumatic past and have things they need to work through, but they do this together. You could say that their individual brand of crazy fits together.
I didn’t see all the twists and turns of the story. I enjoyed that it wasn’t predictable and had me guessing. I did find that all the mind reading near the end of the story was a little confusing and had me having to go back at times to re-read to make sure I understood. Overall, I really enjoyed the story, the MC’s, SC’s like Gaz, and the spice was top notch! I would definitely recommend giving this book a try, even if you haven’t enjoyed some of the others in the series.
This book may be my first by Emily Alter, but it won’t be my last!
[I received an ARC of this book via Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.]
4.5 ⭐��
ARC REVIEW
A Gift for a Demon is part of a multi-author series, Possessive Love, but can be read as a standalone. I have read many of the books from this series, and I feel like it is a hit or miss. This one was a hit! It is also more on the darker side, compared to the rest of the series.
« dethroned king of hell x human »
« mind games & reading minds »
« MC on the schizophrenia spectrum »
« submission »
« fear play »
« horn play »
« lingerie »
« size difference »
« watersports »
One minute Dave is at a séance at his best friend’s insistence, next minute he was in hell and being given to Melchom as a gift and therefore his property. Melchom is the former king of hell and a demon who feeds on fear. Melchom renames Dave as Dove. I really enjoyed the development of Melchom’s character throughout the book. As the story progresses, Melchom personality is a dichotomy. He is both protective, patient, and caring, but also dominating, mocking, and sadistic.
“I’m the only one who gets to hurt you.”
I am not a fan of watersports, but I knew this was in the book going in. I will say that there were more scenes with this than I anticipated. No kink shame here, it just wasn’t my thing, and didn’t feel like this took away from the overall story. If anything, it fits with the characters and their dynamic. There is something primal about the couple. Dove needs to be owned and feel used by Melchom and Melchom is possessive of what is his and Dove is his. Both have a traumatic past and have things they need to work through, but they do this together. You could say that their individual brand of crazy fits together.
I didn’t see all the twists and turns of the story. I enjoyed that it wasn’t predictable and had me guessing. I did find that all the mind reading near the end of the story was a little confusing and had me having to go back at times to re-read to make sure I understood. Overall, I really enjoyed the story, the MC’s, SC’s like Gaz, and the spice was top notch! I would definitely recommend giving this book a try, even if you haven’t enjoyed some of the others in the series.
This book may be my first by Emily Alter, but it won’t be my last!
[I received an ARC of this book via Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.]
4.5 ⭐��
October 29, 2023
Dave is not quite sure how he ended up in the underworld as a gift for a demon, and not just any demon. He has been gifted to Melchom, who was the king until a deceitful human stole his crown, a human named David. But Dave is not defeated and plans on learning how to make his way in this new situation. Melchom finds himself at a loss when Dave, or Dove as he prefers, works his way into his heart. Unfortunately, this new home is filled with complex and dangerous inhabitants.
Dave was dealing with quite a few problems. He had some issues getting his brain to work like everyone else’s. Melchom felt his brain was multifaceted and fascinating. He found being surprised by Dave on more than one instance. His names for him made you smile. There is also a matter of a prophesy and of course forces to work against that. It was also very hot with lots of heated action going on. Gift for a Demon is a fun, toasty read that should not be missed. I am betting everyone who likes this type of story will enjoy it.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it to my pleasure. The opinions are my own.
Dave was dealing with quite a few problems. He had some issues getting his brain to work like everyone else’s. Melchom felt his brain was multifaceted and fascinating. He found being surprised by Dave on more than one instance. His names for him made you smile. There is also a matter of a prophesy and of course forces to work against that. It was also very hot with lots of heated action going on. Gift for a Demon is a fun, toasty read that should not be missed. I am betting everyone who likes this type of story will enjoy it.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it to my pleasure. The opinions are my own.
November 10, 2023
Gift for a Demon
***** Spoiler Alert *****
I bought the entire Possessive Love Demon series. To be honest, previous to this book, I had never read Emily Alter.
I could not put this book down! Do you remember those visions of hell? You probably have. Fields of Bones, Red, Hot as hell, and demons everywhere with loincloth only. No? Well I have read other books with these images and they are scary as sin!
Initially, when Dave ends up in Hell the Minions are all in his head without Melchom's permission. They eventually took him down to Melchom’s bedroom tied up waiting for him to appear.
Turns out this is like something biblical all the way back from David and Goliath and David and Melchom used to be a thing until he betrayed him and Melchom lost his crown in hell.
After meeting Dave and hearing his story how he got there, he realized kids used Dave in a Satanic plot including his supposed best friend. Melchom decided to name him Dove. Things became rather erotic after that but when he was was gone, Dove realized how sad and lonely he was. He felt something calling for him. He went to look where no one is supposed to, in the basement
He brought back a hellhound, Gaz. Turns out Gaz was devoted to Dove.
There are all sort of mistakes, misadventures, and problems, but in the end the two were in love with each after the test of Hell. They also had a true friend in Beelzebub.
The very best thing was Melchom accepted how Dove liked to dress and even went and bought tons of lingerie and crop tops for him with silky robes and short skirts.
Dove realized he loved Melchom and he loved living in Hell as his Consort. Not at first but by the end, yes.
I really enjoyed this crazy relationship. There was some serious erotica. But there was also ripping people’s heads off. Which for me was a bit much before breakfast.
I think Melchom realized that David was never his true love but that he has one in Dove.
Excellent book! Highly recommend this book in hell!❤️🔥
10/10++
***** Spoiler Alert *****
I bought the entire Possessive Love Demon series. To be honest, previous to this book, I had never read Emily Alter.
I could not put this book down! Do you remember those visions of hell? You probably have. Fields of Bones, Red, Hot as hell, and demons everywhere with loincloth only. No? Well I have read other books with these images and they are scary as sin!
Initially, when Dave ends up in Hell the Minions are all in his head without Melchom's permission. They eventually took him down to Melchom’s bedroom tied up waiting for him to appear.
Turns out this is like something biblical all the way back from David and Goliath and David and Melchom used to be a thing until he betrayed him and Melchom lost his crown in hell.
After meeting Dave and hearing his story how he got there, he realized kids used Dave in a Satanic plot including his supposed best friend. Melchom decided to name him Dove. Things became rather erotic after that but when he was was gone, Dove realized how sad and lonely he was. He felt something calling for him. He went to look where no one is supposed to, in the basement
He brought back a hellhound, Gaz. Turns out Gaz was devoted to Dove.
There are all sort of mistakes, misadventures, and problems, but in the end the two were in love with each after the test of Hell. They also had a true friend in Beelzebub.
The very best thing was Melchom accepted how Dove liked to dress and even went and bought tons of lingerie and crop tops for him with silky robes and short skirts.
Dove realized he loved Melchom and he loved living in Hell as his Consort. Not at first but by the end, yes.
I really enjoyed this crazy relationship. There was some serious erotica. But there was also ripping people’s heads off. Which for me was a bit much before breakfast.
I think Melchom realized that David was never his true love but that he has one in Dove.
Excellent book! Highly recommend this book in hell!❤️🔥
10/10++
June 12, 2024
Style wasn’t for me, too many times I had to reread lines/paragraphs trying to figure out what they meant (too many “he/him” for a book with almost exclusively male characters—epithets get overused in fanfic sure but they’re really helpful in moderation);
the schizophrenia seemed to basically disappear once MCs got together, no specific mental health issues/disorders aside from getting distracted easily sometimes, but that didn’t feel like ADHD frequency/intensity (or is distractibility kind of chill for schizophrenics generally??);
characters didn’t feel like real people, never once got to forget that they were characters in a story;
there stakes weren’t really serious at any point either because MCs were already at “I love him but won’t tell him” before the prophecy/mythology started. The way it went down felt forced (also, it was never really said why being dethroned somehow meant a hellhound had to scratch his face?? “actions have consequences” isn’t a world-building reason for a massive scar that wasn’t referenced more than 5 times in the whole book).
Wasn’t objectively bad, just no part of it worked for me.
the schizophrenia seemed to basically disappear once MCs got together, no specific mental health issues/disorders aside from getting distracted easily sometimes, but that didn’t feel like ADHD frequency/intensity (or is distractibility kind of chill for schizophrenics generally??);
characters didn’t feel like real people, never once got to forget that they were characters in a story;
there stakes weren’t really serious at any point either because MCs were already at “I love him but won’t tell him” before the prophecy/mythology started. The way it went down felt forced (also, it was never really said why being dethroned somehow meant a hellhound had to scratch his face?? “actions have consequences” isn’t a world-building reason for a massive scar that wasn’t referenced more than 5 times in the whole book).
Wasn’t objectively bad, just no part of it worked for me.
October 29, 2023
Human Dave was given as a gift to the dethroned King of Hell. He had to learn how to protect himself and fight his own battles. Melchom had once ruled over Hell until a human betrayed and stole his throne. He is now the Hell Paymaster and had vowed not to make the same mistakes but how could he say no to the most enticing man he had ever seen who freely offered up his fear for Melchom to feast on? It’s not an issue of chemistry. Hell is a complex ecosystem, and there are more forces and prophecies in place than either of them could’ve ever foreseen.
I enjoyed this story with the kink where Melchom could scare Dave who was quite willing to be scared and give it as a gift. I loved the tolerant and affectionate manner that Melchom adopted with Dave and the way that he tried to protect him from the elements that were causing him real distress. There is a lot of sexual content in this story. Easy to read and understand. This is an MM story with a list of kinks and content warnings at the start of the book.
I enjoyed this story with the kink where Melchom could scare Dave who was quite willing to be scared and give it as a gift. I loved the tolerant and affectionate manner that Melchom adopted with Dave and the way that he tried to protect him from the elements that were causing him real distress. There is a lot of sexual content in this story. Easy to read and understand. This is an MM story with a list of kinks and content warnings at the start of the book.
October 30, 2023
This was a very interesting romance novel. Dave was sent to Hell by a satanic cult as a gift for Melchom, the former king of Hell. Dave then finds out that he’s the subject of a prophecy that basically says he will either become the next king or return Melchom to the throne. His relationship with Melchom begins antagonistically, despite their attraction for each other, because Melchom, like all demons, feeds on fear and expects Dave to submit to him, to include changing his name to Dove.
Melchom, despite being the former king, isn’t a bad demon, and likes Dave’s feisty ways. They quickly give into their attraction for each other and that attraction soon leads to love. Dave even reaches a point where he is only too happy to let Melchom scare him and to accept the name Dove, just to please him. Overall, it was a decent book and the relationship between Melchom and Dave was fun to watch unfold. I also really enjoyed the conversations with the minions and Dave’s hellhound, Gaz.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Melchom, despite being the former king, isn’t a bad demon, and likes Dave’s feisty ways. They quickly give into their attraction for each other and that attraction soon leads to love. Dave even reaches a point where he is only too happy to let Melchom scare him and to accept the name Dove, just to please him. Overall, it was a decent book and the relationship between Melchom and Dave was fun to watch unfold. I also really enjoyed the conversations with the minions and Dave’s hellhound, Gaz.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2023
This is the last one in the possessive love series. I was a bit disappointed in the whole series, I expected more. There were 3 good books, most of the rest was mediocre and a few were really bad.
The best ones were 'Exercising a Demon' by HL day and 'Son of the Arch Demon' by Amanda Meuwissen.
Unfortunately the series didn't end with a bang. It ended with a puff of smoke.
This was mediocre and I couldnt get over the size difference. If I understood correctly the Demon was like twice his size? And what bothered me with this mental picture wasnt even the fucking. Lets be honest here, we all saw stranger things in books. I couldnt picture them kissing. The demon would have the whole head in his mouth with this size difference. Also the dramatic ending with the bad guy was a bit short and without any real drama. The drama with the demon that came afterwards...my eyes rolled that far up my head I wonder how the didnt stuck. He is a bad boy demon ffs. Stop feeling guilt for your nature you idiot.
The best ones were 'Exercising a Demon' by HL day and 'Son of the Arch Demon' by Amanda Meuwissen.
Unfortunately the series didn't end with a bang. It ended with a puff of smoke.
This was mediocre and I couldnt get over the size difference. If I understood correctly the Demon was like twice his size? And what bothered me with this mental picture wasnt even the fucking. Lets be honest here, we all saw stranger things in books. I couldnt picture them kissing. The demon would have the whole head in his mouth with this size difference. Also the dramatic ending with the bad guy was a bit short and without any real drama. The drama with the demon that came afterwards...my eyes rolled that far up my head I wonder how the didnt stuck. He is a bad boy demon ffs. Stop feeling guilt for your nature you idiot.
October 15, 2023
There was a lot to like in this book - it was twisted in places but I really enjoyed Dave (renamed Dove) and Melchom together. They had such an interesting connection and, even though not all of the kink was to my taste, it was definitely steamy and I was along for the ride. Melchom's character definitely developed over the course of the book and it was sweet to see how feelings developed between the pair of them. I also liked some of the world building and Gaz was a great character too. I didn't see all the twists and turns coming and I enjoyed their HEA together. Some of it was quite complex with the mind reading towards the end but this didn't detract from the story. If you like this genre and have had a read of the trigger warnings, I'd definitely recommend giving this a try.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
October 20, 2023
An interesting and unusual story about a human and a demon. I was as confused as Dave when he first arrived in Hell. Who do the voices belong to? Are they even real? Is he having an episode? What on earth is going on? And then he meets Melchum, who fits Dave’s definition of hot, even though he’s also super scary. Demon’s gifts (humans) don’t generally survive long in Hell…but there’s something a bit different about Dave - maybe it’s just the way his mind works. The interplay between the two is fascinating, Dave’s mind running off in so many directions, his conversations with the demon end up being hilarious, definitely not going in the direction Melchum expects, which leads to Melchum being intrigued and enjoying his gift way more than he expected to. Definitely worth reading!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book for free and this is a voluntary review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book for free and this is a voluntary review.
October 26, 2023
If you are looking for something with some unique intimate times you will enjoy this book a lot. It is quite spicy so check out the blurb for details! There are watersports and humiliation Kink here which were not personally for me, but they did fit these two and their personalities and situation. My favorite part though was watching our Demon Melchom fall for his little human that was gifted to him. Dave who Melchom has given the adorable nickname Dove, has a bit of a personality disorder and it seems that what Melchom has to offer actually balances him out. There is a good balance of the realistic way you would expect a Demon to be and a caring side that starts to develop as he starts to actual feel something for the first time ever in his existence with Dove. This was a nice darker selection in this series of standalone romances.
October 27, 2023
Dave has been given as a gift to the previous king of hell unknowingly. Melchom is a demon and feeds off fear. At first, he plans to just use the gift he's been given, however, Dave has some surprises that keep him interesting. Dave has psychotic episodes from time to time and isn't sure what's real or not. I love the way his mind is described as working and how Melchom sees him. I'd say that these two unfold very uniquely from others in this series. Their love story isn't so straight forward but they do truly come to care for the other. Gaz is the perfect addition and I loved how Dave keeps insisting that she's a dog. There are some triggers so please mind those and the kinks before diving in. However, I found this a really gripping story and fell in love with these characters! I do hope that we get to see Baz again. I'm curious how it's going with his new human!
October 29, 2023
A different look at a demon
Emily Alter has come up with another really fun book with this novel that is part of the muli-author “Possessive Love” series. Most of the story is set in Hell as Dave trusted the wrong person and ended up as a gift for Melchom who used to run Hell. Ms. Alter has written a whole backstory and rules for Hell that affect the characters and their interactions both with each other and the few other characters that are in the story. I really enjoyed this book but beware because it is set in Hell. It’s not a vanilla tale and there are a lot of k1nks present in this gift of a story. Alter has written characters that are into all of it so there is a lot of fun had by Dave and Melchom though some is CNC. If you are not familiar with this term then read the warnings and look things up before you delve into this story for us fre@ky people.
Emily Alter has come up with another really fun book with this novel that is part of the muli-author “Possessive Love” series. Most of the story is set in Hell as Dave trusted the wrong person and ended up as a gift for Melchom who used to run Hell. Ms. Alter has written a whole backstory and rules for Hell that affect the characters and their interactions both with each other and the few other characters that are in the story. I really enjoyed this book but beware because it is set in Hell. It’s not a vanilla tale and there are a lot of k1nks present in this gift of a story. Alter has written characters that are into all of it so there is a lot of fun had by Dave and Melchom though some is CNC. If you are not familiar with this term then read the warnings and look things up before you delve into this story for us fre@ky people.
December 22, 2023
Top two of the series
I’ve read a lot of the books in this series and almost all of them have left me disappointed. There’s only really three that I feel are well written with compelling and unique storylines. This one is definitely in the top two, and it’s one of the darker ones which I’m okay with. There’s quite a power imbalance but the author doesn’t use bad tropes or cliche explanations to try and excuse it. The situation for Dove is dark and it’s treated as such (unlike some of the others in this series with a power imbalance that’s treated as inconsequential or romantic).
The spice level in this book is also far superior to the other books. There’s kinks that not everyone may be into, but everything in the story is well written. In general I liked the darker storyline, I liked the development of the relationship, I liked the psychological aspect, and I liked the smut. I have tried reading some of this author’s other books and didn’t care for any of them, but I really hope her future books can be more like this one because I’d eat them up.
I’ve read a lot of the books in this series and almost all of them have left me disappointed. There’s only really three that I feel are well written with compelling and unique storylines. This one is definitely in the top two, and it’s one of the darker ones which I’m okay with. There’s quite a power imbalance but the author doesn’t use bad tropes or cliche explanations to try and excuse it. The situation for Dove is dark and it’s treated as such (unlike some of the others in this series with a power imbalance that’s treated as inconsequential or romantic).
The spice level in this book is also far superior to the other books. There’s kinks that not everyone may be into, but everything in the story is well written. In general I liked the darker storyline, I liked the development of the relationship, I liked the psychological aspect, and I liked the smut. I have tried reading some of this author’s other books and didn’t care for any of them, but I really hope her future books can be more like this one because I’d eat them up.
October 25, 2023
Dave wakes up in Hell. The Demon Melchom informs him his friends "gifted" him to Melchom and he terrorizes Dave as that is how he feeds. I felt this book had a pretty accurate depiction of how I thought a demon would act, indifferent to a human's feelings until Melchom catches a feel for his "tiny human". Lots of watersports in this book if that is your thing. Melchom becomes a total, possessive softie after he realizes he cares for "his Dove" and there is a prophecy in the mix. For a book based in Hell, this had almost a mystical or spiritual aspect combined with Dave's schizophrenia. I found it a fresh take on a relationship with a demon. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
October 28, 2023
This story pulls together some intriguing elements: let’s start with the premise, in which Dave (unsuspecting human) winds up in Hell…and plenty of steam and intrigue ensues. There are plenty of twists and turns to go with all the spice (plenty of that too) and Dave and Melcholm have a chemistry that really practically burns off the page in intensity. What works for them, physically and emotionally, might not be for everyone, but it clearly fits their needs, and watching Dave find a place and a person (demon?) who gets him and wants him and can balance him out in ways he values, like watching Melcholm develop some softer, more complex sides in response to his “Dove,” feels rewarding. 4.5 stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 30, 2023
Hot Hot Hot!!! Poor Dave has no family connections, and is betrayed by his only friend. He is sacrificed as a gift for the dethroned king of Hell, Melchom. I wasn't expecting a whole lot of plot, and was pleasantly surprised with what we got! The way the author depicted Dove's schizophrenia was so unique, and I loved that it wasn't even considered to "fix" him. It was fun to see him start off so shy about his body at the beginning to embracing living in the beautiful lingerie that Melchom likes to dress him in. I wasn't 100% sure about all of the kinks in the TWs, but they were so well done I found myself loving them! This was my first book by Emily Alter, but I will definitely be reading more. I can't wait to finish the other stories in the Possessive Love world.
November 26, 2023
A Happy Ending in A Unique Way
The writing and storytelling were comfortable and easy, especially when the subject matter was dark, devilish and devastating. The main characters Dove and Melchom drew me in and their bond connected in their own way, which worked for them. I love that the writer took on mental health, grief, healing, and this book sinks into you. The enjoyment of the sexual components is great as you see their connection grow and their own satisfaction (even though I personally am not interested in their golden shower kink), the story itself wants you to see them succeed. To root for them both as they work towards finding their balance of a happily ever after.
The writing and storytelling were comfortable and easy, especially when the subject matter was dark, devilish and devastating. The main characters Dove and Melchom drew me in and their bond connected in their own way, which worked for them. I love that the writer took on mental health, grief, healing, and this book sinks into you. The enjoyment of the sexual components is great as you see their connection grow and their own satisfaction (even though I personally am not interested in their golden shower kink), the story itself wants you to see them succeed. To root for them both as they work towards finding their balance of a happily ever after.
October 14, 2023
This story was good. I am not a fan of watersports….but it didn’t stop me from reading the book. I admit I kinda skipped over those parts a little because I wanted to reach the end of Melchom and Dave … or Dove’s tale. Please be aware of the triggers listed for this one. I enjoyed the characters here. Dove has a bit of a fractured mind, but Melchom helps him feel calmer. These two are complicated and the only way to understand is to read it. It was different and a lot darker than some of the others in this set, but then again, Dave was sacrificed as a gift to Melchom against his will. I do enjoy multi author series and this was one of the authors that I didn’t know before.
October 29, 2023
This is a new author for me and I thought the premise was quite original. Dave was also one of the most interesting and and unique characters I’ve come across in a while. He was the highlight for me in this book, his house of mirrors was a fascinating way to explore his mental health. I’ll admit the plot and world building was a bit under developed, but I enjoyed the characters so much I can overlook that. Dove and Melchom have quite the journey together, you get a bit of everything- grumpy, sweet, possessive, and loads of steamy chemistry. Rounding up to 4 stars because the characters were so memorable.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 31, 2023
I'm really enjoying this series and discovering that it isn't the dark one I expected. Here, Dave and the demon who falls for him make a wonderful couple. Melchom was delightful as a character who had been badly burned by a human once before and was determined to never take that chance again. Well, that is until irresistable Dave shows up, lol. Dave is justifiably fearful of both the place and the paranormal and it is interesting to see his evolution as the relationship with Melchor progresses. I enjoyed the world building and especially the scheming and plotting going on in the nether regions.
November 16, 2023
“That’s a bit dramatic.”
I loved this book. It was such a fun, steamy read. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Dave and Melchom. The story was fascinating and hooked me from the start. How could it not when Dave suddenly finds himself imprisoned in Hell to be gifted to a demon? I loved the relationship between them and their dynamic. And their chemistry was hot. I liked Mel's reasoning for renaming Dave to Dove. That scene felt cute to me. The prophesies were fascinating. I also liked the supporting characters. This is the first book I've read by this author and I will definitely be reading more! 5 stars.
I loved this book. It was such a fun, steamy read. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Dave and Melchom. The story was fascinating and hooked me from the start. How could it not when Dave suddenly finds himself imprisoned in Hell to be gifted to a demon? I loved the relationship between them and their dynamic. And their chemistry was hot. I liked Mel's reasoning for renaming Dave to Dove. That scene felt cute to me. The prophesies were fascinating. I also liked the supporting characters. This is the first book I've read by this author and I will definitely be reading more! 5 stars.
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