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Inhuman Love #2
Devour
Eli considers himself a mostly typical college student with one exception: he refuses to date. With plans of being ordained in his future, he doesn’t want a relationship swaying his opinion one way or the other. Thanks to his strict religious upbringing, not even his friends question his decision. Until one night after too many shots celebrating with his best friend, he agrees to a marriage pact with someone he met that evening in the nightclub’s bathroom.
Rhory, a charismatic and alluring over-sharer who never does anything but pursue pleasure, seems to be Eli’s opposite in every way. Much to Eli’s displeasure, Rhory refuses to disappear from Eli’s life. Rhory much prefers spending the next decade pestering Eli with the countdown to his 35th birthday, when Eli promised himself to Rhory.
With the allure of the unobtainable only growing stronger in each of them, even Eli’s religious calling won’t deter Rhory’s constant presence. Instead, the two cultivate a relationship that deepens with each passing year. Even when Eli and Rhory find themselves enmeshed with each other, one problem remains: Rhory is a demon, who will devour anyone who breaks a promise to him.
Devour is a low angst slow-burn MM paranormal romance featuring a demon and human pairing.
Rhory, a charismatic and alluring over-sharer who never does anything but pursue pleasure, seems to be Eli’s opposite in every way. Much to Eli’s displeasure, Rhory refuses to disappear from Eli’s life. Rhory much prefers spending the next decade pestering Eli with the countdown to his 35th birthday, when Eli promised himself to Rhory.
With the allure of the unobtainable only growing stronger in each of them, even Eli’s religious calling won’t deter Rhory’s constant presence. Instead, the two cultivate a relationship that deepens with each passing year. Even when Eli and Rhory find themselves enmeshed with each other, one problem remains: Rhory is a demon, who will devour anyone who breaks a promise to him.
Devour is a low angst slow-burn MM paranormal romance featuring a demon and human pairing.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2023
39 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 16, 2024
LITERATURE MASTERPIECE
This ARC book has been provided by Booksirens and Howl Avery in exchange for my honest review.
I think the only good thing about my Monday so far is this book.
I can't even articulate how I felt about it, I loved every part of it. There was not a page in which I felt bored or forced to continue reading, nothing! As soon as I started the first chapter I was hooked, and there was no way I was going anyway unless I finished. And here I am a couple of hours later.
So this book follows the story of Eli, the grumpy college student who has chosen not to date because his future is set for ordination, and he wishes to avoid any romantic involvement that might influence his perspective. However, everything changes one night when he gets drunk at a club, he unexpectedly agrees to a marriage pact with a person he met that very night in the nightclub's restroom, Rhory.
Rhory has a captivating and oversharing personality, and is in pursuit of one thing; pleasure. When he strikes the deal with Eli, he makes it his business to follow Eli everywhere for the next decade and wiggles himself into Eli's life. So our religious grump has to do everything in his power to not succumb to Rhory's charming allure.
The book has a particular time set because each chapter describes a year of Eli's life from 21 to 35, so each year we see how the relationship between Eli and Rhory develops. How they both struggle to stay away from temptation and to not fall in love
I particularly have never read a book that's similar to this, which is so refreshing for me. I loved how opposite Eli and Rhory were, and how their personalities clashed and fit at the same time, I loved Rhory's humor, I think it lessened the tension of the book a bit which was a great twist.
And let's not speak of the plot twist at the end, omg!!! I expected a lot of things to happen, BUT NOT THAT, that's all I can say.
All in all, I am so happy I found this book, I definitely recommend it.
This ARC book has been provided by Booksirens and Howl Avery in exchange for my honest review.
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October 20, 2024?? stars I can't write a review, or pick a rating, so here are my notes instead.
What a strange book!
Not bad but very odd.
I’m not sure if it was either a) super romantic, or b) totally not a romance. Around 80-90 percent I thought this might actually not have a HEA at all.
Very interesting premise but extremely drawn out. Somewhat stiff writing.
I just don't know if the actual relationship was satisfying enough. They were best friends and almost-kind-of-but-not-really fuck buddies for, like, 13 years, and yet I don't know if I’m convinced. I don't feel it.
Also, Eli obviously leaves his role as deacon which he hates anyway, but why mention a potential of him being a school counsellor instead and then just drop it like a hot potato?
What a strange book.
What a strange book!
Not bad but very odd.
I’m not sure if it was either a) super romantic, or b) totally not a romance. Around 80-90 percent I thought this might actually not have a HEA at all.
Very interesting premise but extremely drawn out. Somewhat stiff writing.
I just don't know if the actual relationship was satisfying enough. They were best friends and almost-kind-of-but-not-really fuck buddies for, like, 13 years, and yet I don't know if I’m convinced. I don't feel it.
Also, Eli obviously leaves his role as deacon which he hates anyway, but why mention a potential of him being a school counsellor instead and then just drop it like a hot potato?
What a strange book.
April 26, 2024
This book was so GOOD!
This was such an interesting take on demons, incubi, and succubi and how they feed/eat.
Eli and Rhory develop a very co-dependent relationship over the span of 15 ish years, and while initially this was a voluntarily parasitic relationship it mutates into a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship the longer they know each other.
The humor in this book and between these two is top notch. Rhory gives absolutely zero f*cks and Eli has nearly limitless patience and appreciation for Rhory’s antics.
This might be a slooooooow burn, however that doesn’t mean there is no sexual tension. I usually don’t go for these types of books but man was this hot. I guess that’s to be expected with a literal sex demon.
The ending snuck up on me, I was so surprised because I didn’t know how they were going to get out of their deal. Did they technically get out of it? The ending is a trip!
I will definitely be reading the first book, Waves!
This was such an interesting take on demons, incubi, and succubi and how they feed/eat.
Eli and Rhory develop a very co-dependent relationship over the span of 15 ish years, and while initially this was a voluntarily parasitic relationship it mutates into a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship the longer they know each other.
The humor in this book and between these two is top notch. Rhory gives absolutely zero f*cks and Eli has nearly limitless patience and appreciation for Rhory’s antics.
This might be a slooooooow burn, however that doesn’t mean there is no sexual tension. I usually don’t go for these types of books but man was this hot. I guess that’s to be expected with a literal sex demon.
The ending snuck up on me, I was so surprised because I didn’t know how they were going to get out of their deal. Did they technically get out of it? The ending is a trip!
I will definitely be reading the first book, Waves!
October 20, 2023
Light reading despite some of the subject matter.
This book was a nice respite from some heavier reading while still providing the horror/fantasy elements I enjoy. The characters don't have a ton of depth, but their interactions were still cute and I enjoyed the slow burn. I especially loved the unique relationship dynamic between Rhory and Eli - somehow both scandalous friends-with-benefits and relatively chaste. The stakes don't feel particularly high which can be nice if you're looking for a chill read that isn't too sappy.
That being said, there is a lot more that could have been done with this story. I would have loved more details about how demons work in this world. I was a little disappointed that Eli didn't have more of a crisis of conscience. It would be fun to see him grapple with reconciling the supernatural with the church. Does this prove his beliefs or shake them? I suppose this would delve into some heavier existential dread that may not fit the tone of this book very well. Some heavy topics that are brushed in this story include immortality, possession, homophobia, murder, sexual assault, domestic violence, and others. The pattern was to touch lightly on these concepts without really exploring darker implications for better or for worse.
For me, this book isn't really re-readable...but that doesn't mean I don't want to read more! I'll be on the lookout for the others in this series. Sometimes I need a break from the heavy stuff.
Thank you for the chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
This book was a nice respite from some heavier reading while still providing the horror/fantasy elements I enjoy. The characters don't have a ton of depth, but their interactions were still cute and I enjoyed the slow burn. I especially loved the unique relationship dynamic between Rhory and Eli - somehow both scandalous friends-with-benefits and relatively chaste. The stakes don't feel particularly high which can be nice if you're looking for a chill read that isn't too sappy.
That being said, there is a lot more that could have been done with this story. I would have loved more details about how demons work in this world. I was a little disappointed that Eli didn't have more of a crisis of conscience. It would be fun to see him grapple with reconciling the supernatural with the church. Does this prove his beliefs or shake them? I suppose this would delve into some heavier existential dread that may not fit the tone of this book very well. Some heavy topics that are brushed in this story include immortality, possession, homophobia, murder, sexual assault, domestic violence, and others. The pattern was to touch lightly on these concepts without really exploring darker implications for better or for worse.
For me, this book isn't really re-readable...but that doesn't mean I don't want to read more! I'll be on the lookout for the others in this series. Sometimes I need a break from the heavy stuff.
Thank you for the chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
October 5, 2023
Oh. My. God.
This was so not what I was expecting- and I mean that in a good way!
This is a mega slow burn and spans over more than a decade but it’s not slow paced at all, I’ve really enjoyed it! I finished it in a day and was genuinely pleasantly surprised!
So why only 3*?? Well, there’s a little depth lacking, and more in a ‘this seems like a new author’ kind of way, there’s a few loose ends I’d like tied up/more info on…
What happened to Eli’s mother? She is only mentioned once and the interaction with his family is father, step mother and step siblings…
Why does Rhorey dislike Mias friends?? Is it because one of them is a demon too? It’s never explained…
How can they be killed? It’s a question Eli asks but never gets an answer to…
I’d have loved to see him have a face off with his shitty boss or dad too… and I’m disappointed that they can’t tell their friends and will have to leave them in a decade or so… like I feel like them being accepted would have just added to their HEA.
The 🔥 scenes are also quite vague, I’m not sure if that’s deliberate or if it’s something the author isn’t used to writing
Will I read more of this series?? Definitely!
I received this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was so not what I was expecting- and I mean that in a good way!
This is a mega slow burn and spans over more than a decade but it’s not slow paced at all, I’ve really enjoyed it! I finished it in a day and was genuinely pleasantly surprised!
So why only 3*?? Well, there’s a little depth lacking, and more in a ‘this seems like a new author’ kind of way, there’s a few loose ends I’d like tied up/more info on…
What happened to Eli’s mother? She is only mentioned once and the interaction with his family is father, step mother and step siblings…
Why does Rhorey dislike Mias friends?? Is it because one of them is a demon too? It’s never explained…
How can they be killed? It’s a question Eli asks but never gets an answer to…
I’d have loved to see him have a face off with his shitty boss or dad too… and I’m disappointed that they can’t tell their friends and will have to leave them in a decade or so… like I feel like them being accepted would have just added to their HEA.
The 🔥 scenes are also quite vague, I’m not sure if that’s deliberate or if it’s something the author isn’t used to writing
Will I read more of this series?? Definitely!
I received this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2023
So, this was an interesting one! Never quite read a book with this sort of flow and structure. When the author said "13 years of mutual pining", I wasn't quite sure what that entailed. But this is what it is: this book literally spans the course of 13 years, and each chapter is one year of Eli's life, from the time he is 21 until he is 35.
Now, let me get my quips out of the way first. And this is just me finding out my own personal preferences with reading in general, and not necessarily about the quality of the book, keep in mind! But with a story structure like this, in-between every single chapter is a time skip. We get a small scene, maybe two scenes of a certain year, them jump ahead in time to the next year for the next chapter. And I'm like... That's it? We get a little taste of their relationship building and then have to wait a whole 'nother year before more happens. And for those moments in-between, the reader is told and brought up to speed with what happened like a recap. And that's what a lot of this book was: telling and recapping, with small scenes of moving throughout the years. I just am not one to like SO many large times skips like that! 😅😅
But again, I feel like that is just a "me thing", because I can see how this sort of storytelling can also be very fun and interesting to others. Because, despite that, I still enjoyed the writing and the characters were super cute! Rhory was delightful and rightfully devilish and I really loved how Eli sort of grounded him. And I think this sort of slow burn (and I mean SLOW burn) makes a lot of sense for their dynamic. The buildup to the twist at the end too was wonderful. Overall still a good read, and looking forward to what the author writes next! 💕💖
Now, let me get my quips out of the way first. And this is just me finding out my own personal preferences with reading in general, and not necessarily about the quality of the book, keep in mind! But with a story structure like this, in-between every single chapter is a time skip. We get a small scene, maybe two scenes of a certain year, them jump ahead in time to the next year for the next chapter. And I'm like... That's it? We get a little taste of their relationship building and then have to wait a whole 'nother year before more happens. And for those moments in-between, the reader is told and brought up to speed with what happened like a recap. And that's what a lot of this book was: telling and recapping, with small scenes of moving throughout the years. I just am not one to like SO many large times skips like that! 😅😅
But again, I feel like that is just a "me thing", because I can see how this sort of storytelling can also be very fun and interesting to others. Because, despite that, I still enjoyed the writing and the characters were super cute! Rhory was delightful and rightfully devilish and I really loved how Eli sort of grounded him. And I think this sort of slow burn (and I mean SLOW burn) makes a lot of sense for their dynamic. The buildup to the twist at the end too was wonderful. Overall still a good read, and looking forward to what the author writes next! 💕💖
October 31, 2023
3.5/5 stars
Devour by Howl Avery is the second book in Inhuman Love MM fantasy romance series. It follows Eli, a young man with a religious calling who unknowingly gets into a marriage pact with a demon Rhory.
This was such a strange book and a huge shift in tone and nature from the previous book that I’d hesitate to even group them together. The writing was good and the characters interesting, but there was just something off-putting about the predatory nature of Rhory as well as Eli’s weird friendship dynamic with his best friends. All this and some pretty heavy religious undertones did not deter if from coming across as quite lighthearted and low angst though. I also did like Eli and Rhory’s relationship despite it feeling quite unnatural.
I just found Devour to be a well-written but conflicting read.
Devour by Howl Avery is the second book in Inhuman Love MM fantasy romance series. It follows Eli, a young man with a religious calling who unknowingly gets into a marriage pact with a demon Rhory.
This was such a strange book and a huge shift in tone and nature from the previous book that I’d hesitate to even group them together. The writing was good and the characters interesting, but there was just something off-putting about the predatory nature of Rhory as well as Eli’s weird friendship dynamic with his best friends. All this and some pretty heavy religious undertones did not deter if from coming across as quite lighthearted and low angst though. I also did like Eli and Rhory’s relationship despite it feeling quite unnatural.
I just found Devour to be a well-written but conflicting read.
November 1, 2023
❤️🔥ARC Review❤️🔥
❤️🔥Devour by Howl Avery❤️🔥
❤️🔥”Sorry, not sorry, my guy. He’s not your priest. I’m not your god. We’re not here to judge, only to expedite the process.”❤️🔥
❤️🔥 This book I literally devoured (pun intended). It is so good, I couldn’t stop reading it. I am going through a supernatural/paranormal phase at the moment and I ate this up.
So in the story we have Eli (a soon to be clergyman) and Rhory (demon) the two MMCs. Eli meets Rhory while out with his friends Asher and Ember for a birthday celebration. Asher gives Eli a hard time about dating and marriage which essentially leads to Eli making a deal with a demon, Rhory, but no one knows he’s is a demon. The deal is once he turns 35 and still hasn’t married, Rhory can “have” him. It’s a joke to everyone except Rhory, because he wants to devour Eli’s soul. So throughout the story Rhory inserts himself into Eli’s life and they begin to form an unlikely friendship. I absolutely love Rhory and how he calls Eli hubby as soon as they make the deal. Things begin to change throughout their relationship and they begin to feel for each other. They’re possessive of each other. There’s only one full on sex scene at the end, but the angst is through the roof and I am here for it. Gotta get in those chomp and humps, lol. They do get their hea and I love the way that played out. Gah I cannot recommend this book enough.
❤️🔥slow burn
❤️🔥years of pining
❤️🔥MM
❤️🔥HEA
❤️🔥Available 10/27❤️🔥
❤️🔥Devour by Howl Avery❤️🔥
❤️🔥”Sorry, not sorry, my guy. He’s not your priest. I’m not your god. We’re not here to judge, only to expedite the process.”❤️🔥
❤️🔥 This book I literally devoured (pun intended). It is so good, I couldn’t stop reading it. I am going through a supernatural/paranormal phase at the moment and I ate this up.
So in the story we have Eli (a soon to be clergyman) and Rhory (demon) the two MMCs. Eli meets Rhory while out with his friends Asher and Ember for a birthday celebration. Asher gives Eli a hard time about dating and marriage which essentially leads to Eli making a deal with a demon, Rhory, but no one knows he’s is a demon. The deal is once he turns 35 and still hasn’t married, Rhory can “have” him. It’s a joke to everyone except Rhory, because he wants to devour Eli’s soul. So throughout the story Rhory inserts himself into Eli’s life and they begin to form an unlikely friendship. I absolutely love Rhory and how he calls Eli hubby as soon as they make the deal. Things begin to change throughout their relationship and they begin to feel for each other. They’re possessive of each other. There’s only one full on sex scene at the end, but the angst is through the roof and I am here for it. Gotta get in those chomp and humps, lol. They do get their hea and I love the way that played out. Gah I cannot recommend this book enough.
❤️🔥slow burn
❤️🔥years of pining
❤️🔥MM
❤️🔥HEA
❤️🔥Available 10/27❤️🔥
November 1, 2023
Don't make drunken promises. Eli and Rhory really tickled my funny bone, this future clergyman and his demon really had me invested in their 13 year pine fest. Low on steam but high on humor, this is a great addition to the series.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by BookSirens*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by BookSirens*
July 9, 2024
What did I just read haha (in a good way)
Great ending
Great ending
December 3, 2024
There’s a fine line between fluffy and tedious.
October 8, 2023
I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.
Devour: Inhuman Love, by Howl Avery, is a gay romance about the rather humorous exploits between an aspiring priest and the incubus who unwittingly falls in love with him. Eli is a 21 year old sheltered college student who decides to celebrate his birthday with his friends. He gets introduced a man named Rhory, who immediately latches onto Eli. Unwittingly, Eli promises himself to Rhory after a seemingly harmless joke, not understanding that he’d just pledged his soul to a demon if he’s not married by 35. So begins the wholesome courtship between a human and a demon, as the two attempt to navigate their growing feelings for one another and their desire to control each other.
I laughed a lot more than I thought I would. I enjoyed Eli’s awkwardness whenever he was around Rhory, alongside his growing confidence in being able to manipulate him. I could appreciate his open-mindedness in being friends (and intimate) with a demon, even though he was planning to take a job in ministry. Additionally, stories with a demonic love interest tend to have the demon taking charge, so for Eli to take his corruption into his own hands was a rather welcome sight. The subtle BDSM elements Avery wove in illustrated the trust the two had with one another; despite the assumptions that Eli would force Rory’s hand, I was pleasantly surprised when Rhory became a willing sub, following Eli’s orders to a tee. Eli didn’t abuse his newfound status (much) and derived just as much pleasure from it as Rhory did. It’s the dynamic a loving couple should have, and one that everyone (aside from them) can see. Personally, I’m a fan of BDSM done right, and this was definitely done right.
Moreover, the progression was slow, but I could see how Eli’s maturing and questioning could lead him away from the faith; although I myself am Christian, I can see how the answers Eli’s received from his boss would lead someone to leave the church. Historically speaking, it hasn’t been very inclusive, or kind, to anyone who wasn’t white or male or willing to call out flaws in the church. And while the institution as a whole has done good work, it doesn’t make up for the all the hate crimes it committed, or the psychological and emotional abuse it puts its members through. Although people are encouraged to ask questions, the judgement from leaders who you’re supposed to trust and peers you’re supposed to lean on can definitely suffocate someone. While I might not agree with the approach that Eli’s taken, I can definitely understand it. It begs the question what the church is doing wrong for a demon to have more empathy towards humans.
As such, I would give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Devour: Inhuman Love, by Howl Avery, is a gay romance about the rather humorous exploits between an aspiring priest and the incubus who unwittingly falls in love with him. Eli is a 21 year old sheltered college student who decides to celebrate his birthday with his friends. He gets introduced a man named Rhory, who immediately latches onto Eli. Unwittingly, Eli promises himself to Rhory after a seemingly harmless joke, not understanding that he’d just pledged his soul to a demon if he’s not married by 35. So begins the wholesome courtship between a human and a demon, as the two attempt to navigate their growing feelings for one another and their desire to control each other.
I laughed a lot more than I thought I would. I enjoyed Eli’s awkwardness whenever he was around Rhory, alongside his growing confidence in being able to manipulate him. I could appreciate his open-mindedness in being friends (and intimate) with a demon, even though he was planning to take a job in ministry. Additionally, stories with a demonic love interest tend to have the demon taking charge, so for Eli to take his corruption into his own hands was a rather welcome sight. The subtle BDSM elements Avery wove in illustrated the trust the two had with one another; despite the assumptions that Eli would force Rory’s hand, I was pleasantly surprised when Rhory became a willing sub, following Eli’s orders to a tee. Eli didn’t abuse his newfound status (much) and derived just as much pleasure from it as Rhory did. It’s the dynamic a loving couple should have, and one that everyone (aside from them) can see. Personally, I’m a fan of BDSM done right, and this was definitely done right.
Moreover, the progression was slow, but I could see how Eli’s maturing and questioning could lead him away from the faith; although I myself am Christian, I can see how the answers Eli’s received from his boss would lead someone to leave the church. Historically speaking, it hasn’t been very inclusive, or kind, to anyone who wasn’t white or male or willing to call out flaws in the church. And while the institution as a whole has done good work, it doesn’t make up for the all the hate crimes it committed, or the psychological and emotional abuse it puts its members through. Although people are encouraged to ask questions, the judgement from leaders who you’re supposed to trust and peers you’re supposed to lean on can definitely suffocate someone. While I might not agree with the approach that Eli’s taken, I can definitely understand it. It begs the question what the church is doing wrong for a demon to have more empathy towards humans.
As such, I would give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
October 14, 2023
Opening the first page of Devour, I braced myself for a healthy or unhealthy helping of gore and nastiness because that’s what I usually associate with anything involving demons. For once, though, I liked the demon, Rhory, and his potential prey, Eli. Of course, the fact that Eli is studying for the priesthood isn’t a positive for any long-term relationship with a demon.
The night they met in the bathroom at a nightclub, as absurd as it sounds, the meeting was enough for them to agree on a marriage pact. Naturally, when the agreement is between a priest and a demon, there’s bound to be a problem — a condition or two, such as Rhory eating Eli on his 35th birthday – but I’m sure you’d prefer to read about that.
Devour, book two in the Inhuman ‘Love Collection’ by Howl Avery, is a fun story. As a writer, Avery maintains a light touch, allowing the characters to evolve at their own pace, with them in charge of the story. There’s enough humour, but it’s subtle and not allowed to overwhelm the storyline.
I seriously enjoyed Devour, and it was even better that I’d never read any of Howl Avery’s previous books. It came as a welcome surprise. This is a five-star for me as it was a good piece of entertaining storytelling. Highly recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The night they met in the bathroom at a nightclub, as absurd as it sounds, the meeting was enough for them to agree on a marriage pact. Naturally, when the agreement is between a priest and a demon, there’s bound to be a problem — a condition or two, such as Rhory eating Eli on his 35th birthday – but I’m sure you’d prefer to read about that.
Devour, book two in the Inhuman ‘Love Collection’ by Howl Avery, is a fun story. As a writer, Avery maintains a light touch, allowing the characters to evolve at their own pace, with them in charge of the story. There’s enough humour, but it’s subtle and not allowed to overwhelm the storyline.
I seriously enjoyed Devour, and it was even better that I’d never read any of Howl Avery’s previous books. It came as a welcome surprise. This is a five-star for me as it was a good piece of entertaining storytelling. Highly recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2023
Eli and Rhory bring new meaning to friends to lovers as their relationship evolves over more than a decade. Almost 15 years of slow burn want and pent up desire. Rhory is an unrepentant demon with a decent moral compass and mischievous tendencies. Eli is a stoic, closeted man of faith who is challenged by his world views expanding as he learns demons exist... And aren't necessarily evil.
This is a romance but it is the most drawn out relationship that I've ever read. It's more mental than physical. Both guys at various points simply exist in denial. They would rather exist together as what feels natural without labels and the risks of communicating than actually listen to what their friends keep pointing out... That they love each other. Communication would have shaved off years of them dragging their feelings for each other.
I love Rhory's mischievousness and honest tendencies. Eli's quiet dominance is hot. I don't understand his level of self denial though it works for him.
I am curious about the overall lack of supernaturals in this world and overall lack of understanding each species has about it's own needs and history.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a romance but it is the most drawn out relationship that I've ever read. It's more mental than physical. Both guys at various points simply exist in denial. They would rather exist together as what feels natural without labels and the risks of communicating than actually listen to what their friends keep pointing out... That they love each other. Communication would have shaved off years of them dragging their feelings for each other.
I love Rhory's mischievousness and honest tendencies. Eli's quiet dominance is hot. I don't understand his level of self denial though it works for him.
I am curious about the overall lack of supernaturals in this world and overall lack of understanding each species has about it's own needs and history.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2023
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book. I've previously read a book by Howl Avery before so I was looking forward to dive into another on of their releases. While I wasn't sure how I would feel about it based on the blurb, I did actually enjoy Rhory and Eli's story.
These two men are as different as two people can be, Eli is working towards potentially becoming a priest; whereas Rhory is quite literally a demon. I honestly wasn't sure how their relationship would work or how the pacing would be. Upon reading their story I was pleasantly surprised! There was a friends to lovers aspect featured in the pages of this story which I enjoyed. I also liked how these two characters were so different but were what the other person needed. Even if they didn't know it at the time.
This book is a massive slow burn.. I'm not exaggerating, these two don't admit they are in a relationship or acknowledge it until the last chapter of the book. Which was different. These two formed their bond and closeness through years of friendship and getting to know one another better, they learned to read each other. To know what each other needed.
Overall I thought this book was well written and a really interesting concept. I enjoyed the uniqueness of the plot as well!
These two men are as different as two people can be, Eli is working towards potentially becoming a priest; whereas Rhory is quite literally a demon. I honestly wasn't sure how their relationship would work or how the pacing would be. Upon reading their story I was pleasantly surprised! There was a friends to lovers aspect featured in the pages of this story which I enjoyed. I also liked how these two characters were so different but were what the other person needed. Even if they didn't know it at the time.
This book is a massive slow burn.. I'm not exaggerating, these two don't admit they are in a relationship or acknowledge it until the last chapter of the book. Which was different. These two formed their bond and closeness through years of friendship and getting to know one another better, they learned to read each other. To know what each other needed.
Overall I thought this book was well written and a really interesting concept. I enjoyed the uniqueness of the plot as well!
October 11, 2023
Devour - Chomp and Hump
“I’m neither oblivious nor dense. We care about each other very much. And okay, just this once I will admit there is mutual attraction. Doesn’t matter. He likes what he gets out of me. Not me. Big difference.” “You know if you really are trying to convince us you’re not having sex, you’re not making a good argument for yourself,” Asher said with a raised brow. “Friendship. Companionship, even. Comfort. Dependability. Trust. He doesn’t need me for sex. He gets plenty without my assistance, thanks.”
There are only a few books that I would want to read repeatedly, and I can now include Howl Avery’s DEVOUR, second book in the Inhuman Love Collection, as one.
From the very first moment that Eli and Rhory meet, I was hooked. With a delicate balance that begins as a friendship, and boundaries that Eli sets, it was incredible to watch their relationship develop.
Supporting characters, and their entwined relationships, create a panorama of theological discoveries and challenges that cause an unexpected change in Eli’s future plans.
You will want to DEVOUR, DEVOUR!
“I’m neither oblivious nor dense. We care about each other very much. And okay, just this once I will admit there is mutual attraction. Doesn’t matter. He likes what he gets out of me. Not me. Big difference.” “You know if you really are trying to convince us you’re not having sex, you’re not making a good argument for yourself,” Asher said with a raised brow. “Friendship. Companionship, even. Comfort. Dependability. Trust. He doesn’t need me for sex. He gets plenty without my assistance, thanks.”
There are only a few books that I would want to read repeatedly, and I can now include Howl Avery’s DEVOUR, second book in the Inhuman Love Collection, as one.
From the very first moment that Eli and Rhory meet, I was hooked. With a delicate balance that begins as a friendship, and boundaries that Eli sets, it was incredible to watch their relationship develop.
Supporting characters, and their entwined relationships, create a panorama of theological discoveries and challenges that cause an unexpected change in Eli’s future plans.
You will want to DEVOUR, DEVOUR!
October 13, 2023
Fantastic, emotional and innovative story
Wow. I loved this so much. Eli and Rhory were off the charts fantastic and the way the story was written was not something I’ve seen before. Each chapter follows a year in Eli’s life after he meets and makes a pact with Rhory. Often I don’t love slow burn when we see it over years because it can feel like it’s dragging, but the way this was set out meant it never felt like it dragged. Instead you got to watch as something beautiful developed between the two of these amazing (but sometimes truly oblivious) characters. The character development was excellent and by the end I’d fallen completely in love with both of them. Nothing felt forced or made to fit within an existing plot arc which meant that you got this beautiful fall into love between the two of them. I won’t mention the twist at the end but it was like that one cherry on top of a sundae - the sundae would be super yummy without it, but the cherry still adds that burst of perfection. This is my first Howl book and I will definitely be coming back for more!
Wow. I loved this so much. Eli and Rhory were off the charts fantastic and the way the story was written was not something I’ve seen before. Each chapter follows a year in Eli’s life after he meets and makes a pact with Rhory. Often I don’t love slow burn when we see it over years because it can feel like it’s dragging, but the way this was set out meant it never felt like it dragged. Instead you got to watch as something beautiful developed between the two of these amazing (but sometimes truly oblivious) characters. The character development was excellent and by the end I’d fallen completely in love with both of them. Nothing felt forced or made to fit within an existing plot arc which meant that you got this beautiful fall into love between the two of them. I won’t mention the twist at the end but it was like that one cherry on top of a sundae - the sundae would be super yummy without it, but the cherry still adds that burst of perfection. This is my first Howl book and I will definitely be coming back for more!
October 26, 2023
Devour
Howl Avery
Eli goes out with Ember to celebrate her younger brother Asher's Birthday.
One of those friends is Rhory, Eli decides to go the bar while Ember talks to the other guest and Rhory follows Eli so they can talk.
Eventually Asher comes over to them and joins into their conversation, after quite a few of shots are downed and Eli is pretty drunk, he makes a pact with Rhory for his 35th birthday.
From then on you just want to keep turning the pages and reading their characters are so funny at times and have serious sides at times.
Just the way Eli describes Rhory's hair choices are so funny how they all seem to suit him and he's gorgeous of course and has a sense of fashion.
Even characters that come into the story later you can just picture their faces about the unique friendship Rhory and Eli have.
I also love the banter between Rhory and Gala, just the way she gives him advice and then tells him "told you so" to the "he's so screwed" lol
If you like MM (a Deacon/a Demon)
storyline you'll enjoy this book
Howl Avery
Eli goes out with Ember to celebrate her younger brother Asher's Birthday.
One of those friends is Rhory, Eli decides to go the bar while Ember talks to the other guest and Rhory follows Eli so they can talk.
Eventually Asher comes over to them and joins into their conversation, after quite a few of shots are downed and Eli is pretty drunk, he makes a pact with Rhory for his 35th birthday.
From then on you just want to keep turning the pages and reading their characters are so funny at times and have serious sides at times.
Just the way Eli describes Rhory's hair choices are so funny how they all seem to suit him and he's gorgeous of course and has a sense of fashion.
Even characters that come into the story later you can just picture their faces about the unique friendship Rhory and Eli have.
I also love the banter between Rhory and Gala, just the way she gives him advice and then tells him "told you so" to the "he's so screwed" lol
If you like MM (a Deacon/a Demon)
storyline you'll enjoy this book
October 22, 2023
This was my first ever book by this author, though far from my first MM paranormal read, so I was unprepared for how incredibly, breathtakingly brilliant it would be. Honestly, half the time I was reading it I'm not sure I was taking full breaths, I was so captivated by the story unfolding between human (and deacon!) Eli and Rhory, the demon that wants to bed him, snuggle him, and eat him in equal measure, it consumed my mind. The book spans 14 years - from Eli's 21st birthday, to his 35th - and yet manages the seemingly impossible feat of being well paced, each chapter a vignette of Eli and Rhory's lives over the years that gives you just enough to know exactly what's going on in their lives, minds and hearts over that time, without getting bogged down in minutiae. How do you write a love story between a human and an ancient, bloodthirsty demon that quite literally wants to consume them in the very real, visceral sense? You'll need to read the book to find out.
November 2, 2023
Unique! Awesome! Amazing! Must read!
This is Howl Avery's second book she's released, and I'm in awe right now. She has taken the romance industry by storm with Devour! I love how the timeline played out. You'll be hooked from the very first chapter all the way to the end. Eli didn't want anything to do with Rhory. Yet Rhory slowly wormed his way into Elis's life, and neither could get enough of each other. Every encounter they have just gets steamier and steamier. I was turning the pages just to see what was going to happen next. Their Banter back and forth will make you laugh. These two were made for each other. It's like where one stopped the other began. You will devour this book like no other. This one is now my favorite story. If you enjoy an MM, slow burn, closeted clergy, Bisexual demon, and a HEA, then this book for you. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. Bravo Howl! Another phenomenal story 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is Howl Avery's second book she's released, and I'm in awe right now. She has taken the romance industry by storm with Devour! I love how the timeline played out. You'll be hooked from the very first chapter all the way to the end. Eli didn't want anything to do with Rhory. Yet Rhory slowly wormed his way into Elis's life, and neither could get enough of each other. Every encounter they have just gets steamier and steamier. I was turning the pages just to see what was going to happen next. Their Banter back and forth will make you laugh. These two were made for each other. It's like where one stopped the other began. You will devour this book like no other. This one is now my favorite story. If you enjoy an MM, slow burn, closeted clergy, Bisexual demon, and a HEA, then this book for you. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. Bravo Howl! Another phenomenal story 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 6, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
So this author is completely new to me and this is the first book by them that I have read, but Avery knows how to leave an impression. By the end of the free excerpt I knew this was a book I very much wanted to read. The beginning couple pages really grab your attention and Avery does a good job of holding the reader's attention (finished this book in like 2 days lol).
Onto the review
The book has great twists and turns, sexual tension, and was a true slow burn, which I'll say was difficult at times. When you get a good ways through the book and the sexual tension hasn't progressed to action its a bit grating not gonna lie. However, there were bits of intimacy sprinkled throughout that kept buillding and that helped. If there were a little more that would have made this a 5 star for me.
So this author is completely new to me and this is the first book by them that I have read, but Avery knows how to leave an impression. By the end of the free excerpt I knew this was a book I very much wanted to read. The beginning couple pages really grab your attention and Avery does a good job of holding the reader's attention (finished this book in like 2 days lol).
Onto the review
The book has great twists and turns, sexual tension, and was a true slow burn, which I'll say was difficult at times. When you get a good ways through the book and the sexual tension hasn't progressed to action its a bit grating not gonna lie. However, there were bits of intimacy sprinkled throughout that kept buillding and that helped. If there were a little more that would have made this a 5 star for me.
October 24, 2023
I absolutely adore this cover as it reminds me of twilight Anyways...
Man this book had me feeling all sorts of giddy. I felt like a middle school girl having her first crush. Because WHOOHOO!! Rhory made me feel *insert chefs kiss and wolf whistle*. I loved this book with my whole being and it is definitely going to be reread in the upcoming year!
Rhory sneaks into getting Eli to a marriage pact he can't get out of! Rhory decides to stick around in Eli's life until he's 35 to marry him, as he isn't the dating type. This slow burn, MM, really has you on a hook from the beginning!
The ONLY reason it's not a 5star rate, is because it didn't make me sob uncontrollably(based on the genre and trope). If it made me sob, then it would've been an easy 5star!
¡easily recommend this to everyone! This is such an amazing book!!!
Man this book had me feeling all sorts of giddy. I felt like a middle school girl having her first crush. Because WHOOHOO!! Rhory made me feel *insert chefs kiss and wolf whistle*. I loved this book with my whole being and it is definitely going to be reread in the upcoming year!
Rhory sneaks into getting Eli to a marriage pact he can't get out of! Rhory decides to stick around in Eli's life until he's 35 to marry him, as he isn't the dating type. This slow burn, MM, really has you on a hook from the beginning!
The ONLY reason it's not a 5star rate, is because it didn't make me sob uncontrollably(based on the genre and trope). If it made me sob, then it would've been an easy 5star!
¡easily recommend this to everyone! This is such an amazing book!!!
November 1, 2023
4.5⭐️
This was such a fun and original book. I’ve been reading a bunch of demon books recently and can say this one definitely stands out. I loved that our demon, Rhory, has so many sides to him. He has tons of snarky personality and humor, but his demon nature is still there to keep things interesting. Slow burn can be frustrating, but this one, I loved. Rhory is definitely playing the long game with his pact to marry Eli if he remains unattached at 35. I loved all the intervening looks into their relationship from age 21 through 35, and how much Eli grows over this time. I loved that I couldn’t predict how it would end for Eli and Rhory, it was such an entertaining read. Great characters and excellent storytelling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This was such a fun and original book. I’ve been reading a bunch of demon books recently and can say this one definitely stands out. I loved that our demon, Rhory, has so many sides to him. He has tons of snarky personality and humor, but his demon nature is still there to keep things interesting. Slow burn can be frustrating, but this one, I loved. Rhory is definitely playing the long game with his pact to marry Eli if he remains unattached at 35. I loved all the intervening looks into their relationship from age 21 through 35, and how much Eli grows over this time. I loved that I couldn’t predict how it would end for Eli and Rhory, it was such an entertaining read. Great characters and excellent storytelling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 21, 2025
So much fun!😍😍😍
Honestly? Delicious! 😁 Howl Avery created a delightfully fiendish universe with smoldering, sexy full bodied MC's! Rhory and Eli are perfectly positioned opposing forces of nature. Eli at his most profound with his existential crisis always in full bloom except when it comes to his sensual incubus...demon...*snicker*...Rhory!😘 And Rhory's continuous threat to eat Eli after tricking him into a bargain that is completely binding. Their longing for each other years in the making.😋 This is a delightful, fun romp through their universe where Eli's and Rhory's friends are clueless to their very real attraction that leads you into the deep longings of lust!😏 A must read!!!
Honestly? Delicious! 😁 Howl Avery created a delightfully fiendish universe with smoldering, sexy full bodied MC's! Rhory and Eli are perfectly positioned opposing forces of nature. Eli at his most profound with his existential crisis always in full bloom except when it comes to his sensual incubus...demon...*snicker*...Rhory!😘 And Rhory's continuous threat to eat Eli after tricking him into a bargain that is completely binding. Their longing for each other years in the making.😋 This is a delightful, fun romp through their universe where Eli's and Rhory's friends are clueless to their very real attraction that leads you into the deep longings of lust!😏 A must read!!!
October 16, 2023
Amazing story, a very different take on a demon human pairing. I loved this book & literally devoured it! Many years pass during the course of the story, but it’s not slow because there is always progress, albeit subtle. It has to be that way because of the nature of their relationship and Eli’s religious calling. Eli knows what Rhory will do to him when he turns 35, yet despite that, he allows the relationship to progress. It’s very interesting how the relationship evolves and the ending was unexpected and truly brilliant. I highly recommend this book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book for free and this is a voluntary opinion.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book for free and this is a voluntary opinion.
November 15, 2023
Devour is a story that follows Eli (a human) and Rhory (a demon) over a period of several years as they navigate their relationship and desires. Rhory was so funny with his comments throughout the story and constantly changes the colour of his hair. Eli comes from a religious background and has a complicated relationship with that. Don’t want to spoil anything so just read it, it’s so well written and the characters are fantastic!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. With sincerest apologies to Howl Avery that me finishing this book and therefore posting this review is late due to being unwell.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. With sincerest apologies to Howl Avery that me finishing this book and therefore posting this review is late due to being unwell.
October 27, 2023
It was a unique story and format. I don’t know of many books where the MC is preparing for a religious career which has the ending like this. As I am always for morally grey characters and corruption, I loved it.
I especially enjoyed that the main character, Eli was not overly sanctimonious like it is usually the case. Rhory was just unhinged and adorable.
The format takes a little bit getting used to as every chapter equals with one year.
I have received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
I especially enjoyed that the main character, Eli was not overly sanctimonious like it is usually the case. Rhory was just unhinged and adorable.
The format takes a little bit getting used to as every chapter equals with one year.
I have received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
October 28, 2023
A Feast for the Funny Bone
Devour is an interesting MM Romance that will delight and amuse readers in this tale of noviciate vs. demon. So many books and authors seem to lack a sense of humor these days, but Howl Avery is not among them. This book had me howling in laughter several times while I followed the journey of Rhory and Eli’s “side-dish” relationship towards the conclusion when the dinner-bell would ring for a final feast-day. A slow-burn, this book has plenty of sweet and salty snacks to tease and delight even in the absence of meat and veg.
Devour is an interesting MM Romance that will delight and amuse readers in this tale of noviciate vs. demon. So many books and authors seem to lack a sense of humor these days, but Howl Avery is not among them. This book had me howling in laughter several times while I followed the journey of Rhory and Eli’s “side-dish” relationship towards the conclusion when the dinner-bell would ring for a final feast-day. A slow-burn, this book has plenty of sweet and salty snacks to tease and delight even in the absence of meat and veg.
October 17, 2023
I was a beta reader hence the early review before release, and adored this book from start to finish. Howl has a beautiful way of weaving these stories together in a way that feels so seamless. The chemistry between Eli and Rhory was beautifully done, and Rhory's spicy personality was so much fun alongside proper, professional Eli. I cannot wait to read more from Howl, she knocked it out of the park again!
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