Lust

Saints & Sinners #1

by Devon McCormack

"Surrender to the Lust."

LUKE

I've never been attracted to guys.
I definitely would never be attracted to a privileged, cocky bastard like Brad Henning.
Even though I've only been at St. Lawrence University for a few weeks, this prick and his friends are on a mission to mess with me—a scholarship kid who I guess they don't think belongs at a prestigious school intended for the nation's elite.
I've always been a loner, so I've dealt with my share of bullies. But unlike the bullying I encountered when I was younger, Brad and his friends have some unusual tricks up their sleeves.
They're using...
I don't even want to name it, but it's the only explanation for what's happening.
Magic.
These guys have powers, and Brad is using his to make me want him.
No—not just want him. Lust after him like I've never lusted after anyone in my life.
The way I crave him sears to my core, causes physical pain until I have the only thing that brings relief—his touch.
But when I discover that whatever he's done to me hurts him too, I realize there's more to all this than Brad and his friends trying to mess up my life.
More to it than these feral urges that are, at times, more than I think I can bear.
I have to get to the bottom of this, but until I do, there's only one way to end my agony.
I must surrender to the lust.

Content Warning: Lust is a steamy paranormal romance, but it contains content that some readers may find triggering, including a character grieving the loss of his parents and mentions of a character's loved one who struggles with a chronic illness. The book also contains depictions of and discussions about bullying.

Genres: Paranormal, M M Romance, Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Magic, Fantasy, College

358 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 27, 2025

About the author

Devon McCormack grew up in the Georgia suburbs with his two younger brothers and an older sister. At a very young age, he spun tales the old fashioned way, lying to anyone and everyone he encountered. He claimed he was an orphan. He claimed to be a king from another planet. He claimed to have supernatural powers. He has since harnessed this penchant for tall tales by crafting worlds and characters that allow him to live out whatever fantasy he chooses. Devon is an out and proud queer man living in Atlanta, Georgia.

Devon's body of work ranges from erotica to young adult, so readers should check the synopses of his books before purchasing so that they know what they're getting into.

Reviews

[Renae Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lust is a fantastic paranormal romance that I could not put down. I love the relationship between Brad and Luke. They have explosive chemistry from their first encounter, and I loved how quickly their rivalry transformed into something so primal, intense, and possessive. They literally could not be without one another, and that aspect of their relationship was so well-developed that it made the whole story work.

I love the world-building and lore of witchcraft and its overall mystery as Luke explores his growing powers that appear out of nowhere. I also like how Brad grounds Luke and his powers and together they anchor one another while remaining connected.

Overall I love the mystery, the magic and the amazing chemistry between the main characters. Their relationship is intense and powerful. I could not get enough of these two and cannot wait for the next entry to see what happens next.

** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.**

[Megan [At The Cottage] · Rating 1 out of 5]

MM Romance
PNR Morons
1 Star ⭐️


I don’t even want to review this tbh. The concept of a curse that makes your entire body hurt if you are not touching a person sounded amazing. The execution was not it though. Books with a paranormal, magic like setting need some kind of world building and honestly this one made absolutely no sense. Not even the characters understood what was going on and the big monster fight? OMG Salt and baseball bats aren’t going to do shit to some mythological monster that’s prophesied to kill everyone. It wasn’t even a “it’s so bad it’s good” kind of thing either. My eyes were rolling so hard I thought they’d fall out of my head. And for a book about lust, these were such vanilla ass sex scenes. 💤💤

I keep reading this author because I loved Filthy Little Secret but I think it was a one hit wonder for me because I’ve hated everything else 🤷🏻‍♀️

And one more thing. If I had no idea magic existed and had the same encounter with these 3 guys that our MC did, I would have never in a million years come to the same conclusion he did so fast. It made absolutely no sense why he would have accused these college guys of manipulating his mind. If anything, I’d think I imagined the whole thing and self doubt would set in but this guy was just like “I know what you did!!” 🙄🙄 I mean at least try to make it make sense you know but then again nothing else did so 🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

[Julia (bookish.jka) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"These aren’t things I look past. They’re part of what make him so beautiful to me. They’re part of what has given him this big heart. Part of what makes seeing his smile or hearing his moans of pleasure all the more intoxicating. Because I know what it takes to overcome that darkness in his heart."

Lust is the first book in the new Saints and Sinners series by Devon McCormack and this is a bit if a change of tempo for the author, who is better known for more contemporary/sports romances.

This is an MM paranormal romance/suspense and it's Brad and Luke's story.

What To Expect:

🖤MM PNR
🖤Insta-lust
🖤Bi-awakening
🖤First times
🖤Steamy scenes
🖤Dark themes
🖤Mystery and magic
🖤HFN

3.5 rounded up stars

[Lola]

DNF at 51%

Read the blurb and got excited thinking this had late 90s/early 2000s movie coven vibes. My nostalgia for The Craft is too damn high.

I was bored. The MCs kinda sucked. It was not well written. And then they had the nerve to reference The Craft. Bitch, you wish you were Sarah Bailey.

[Louise · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is my second read by this author, and once again, I’m unimpressed—this one’s actually worse. The world-building is nonexistent, the characters fall flat, and the writing…I just can’t 🤦🏾‍♀️ It’s a shame, because I had high hopes. I love a good gay paranormal romance, but this just wasn’t it 🫗

[Mal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the lore and fresh take on dimensions and world building.. this one took me a minute to get into because so many questions and so few answers I had a bit of a feeling of being dropped into the middle of a book and like I’ve missed some information and I have to say I wasn’t in a patient mood which is on me so that won’t effect my rating to be fair 😅🙈. It’s also insta lust which isn’t my favourite but again it’s literally in the title so I knew to expect it and could navigate around it easily. But around 20% this book really starts to take off and it was absolutely gripping. These characters were interesting and what they were at first trying to figure out and then combat was phenomenally laid out. I enjoyed it immensely. I loved the dynamic between Brand and Luke and really even between Seth and Codes. I liked how they built up a strong connection and partnership between all of them (Seth took a while, I’m curious about him and Codes) and I really liked the found family vibes.

[Skyla Anderson · Rating 1 out of 5]

I would like to preface this review by saying I read 100% of those book, so don’t come at me with anything like “you didn’t give it a chance”. Trust me I did and it was NOT worth it.

i never write reviews, but honestly after reading this book and seeing all the glowing reviews i felt like i had to warn people of just how bad this book was. First off, this book was marketed as a “bully” romance, but the bullying lasts like 20 pages and then suddenly everyone is remorseful and they’re all buddy/buddy. Now I wont lie, I’m not a huge fan of bully romances when it takes it to extreme measures, but I was expecting some kind of push and pull and that simply was not delivered. However, I wasn’t going to let that sway me from continuing the book because the magic aspect was introduced so I was waiting to see where it went (spoiler alert it wasn’t good). As magic and world building was introduced, it honestly felt like information was just being thrown at a wall and whatever stuck is where the plot went. There was just an influx of telling and not showing, yet I still managed to be confused. The whole reason the main characters get together is because of this strong force of “Lust”, but it is never explained what this force is or why it affects them both AT ALL throughout the book. Some of the lower star reviews mention a lack of chemistry between the MCs throughout the overarching story, but I don’t feel it was that bad. However, I do think that it went from a hatred to spilling innermost secrets to each other insanely quick (and listen i know the insta-love isn’t for everyone, but as an avid romance reader i have seen it done correctly and this was NOT the case).

Now onto the world building; I feel like there was no actual thought behind the plot. The characters were just messing around with random magic and everyone seemed fine with it?? It gave off the same vibes as 14 y/o kids deciding to play make believe AND THEY’RE IN COLLEGE??? It somehow managed to get worse as the story continued as well, especially when they set out to fight the main monster they were terrified of the whole book. These GROWN MEN decide to arm themselves with BASEBALL BATS and PEPPER SPRAY like it would be able to be a plausible defense against a 9 ft tall monster with TALONS?? And don’t get me started on the overall stupidity of the characters. Like during the fight Brad is launched into not one, but TWO trees because the monster grabs the bat as he’s swinging it AND HE DOESNT LEARN TO LET GO??? Just awful.

I honestly felt like I was being held hostage to finish this book, like watching a train wreck and being unable to look away (spoiler alert it just gets worse as the book goes on). Please save yourself hours of your life and message me for some actually good M/M PNR romances. I’m not going to let this book reflect on the rest of Devon’s work because I haven’t read his other works, but I will not be reading anymore in this series.

[Cait · Rating 2 out of 5]

dnf at 47%.

there’s a few issues i have with this book, the first being that they’re so immature?? like these boys are in college and sometimes they act like preteens. also no one actually talks like that.

where’s the world building? it was like we were dropped in a couple of chapters in with no world building at all.

why would you just straight away trust random dudes who were trying to get you to leave the school that you’ve always wanted to go to since it connects to your dad. like why was luke like ‘oh these guys are telling me about ‘this shit’ and i’m just going to take them at their word.’ also can we not with the magic being described as ‘this shit’ over and over again? is there a name for it? even just call it magic, like cmon.

the whole thing was rushed and even the draw between luke and brad didn’t feel as authentic as it could have. there was no chemistry between the two MCs which means the copious sex scenes were just kind of boring.

definitely not for me, 2/5 stars.

[aidni · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF 40%

I wanted to like this so much. The concept is SO GOOD. The first few chapters knocked it out of the park.
However, the about 1/3 in the mystery weakened. The bully style vibes between the two mains was completely gone. The author kind of gives the whole plot away SUPER quick. I really liked these characters but they just told everyone’s everything about themselves, their secrets etc so fast.

This has such a good potential to be a great mystery / romance and by less than 1/2 I couldn’t do it anymore cut had no where to go.

[Emmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

This book was a little OTT but I had a lot of fun reading it 😊

I was a bit worried seeing some of the reviews but as much as Luke and Brad's relationship was a bit rushed I still enjoyed the shenanigans and took it for what it was.

I REALLY didn't like the ending of the epilogue but that's just my personal opinion 🤷‍♀️

TW: Abusive parents (in the past) / Grief

Narrator: Tim Page

[Jennifer]

Dnf @8%

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 Stars

Brad is naturally a happy, kind guy. But his first interactions with Luke paint him in a very different light, so it takes Luke a while to learn to trust Brad. Luke has a tragic past that has made him a bit closed off, so he doesn’t make friends easily. I appreciate that we can see them opening up with each other, being vulnerable in ways that show how they grow to really care about each other outside of The Lust that initially draws them together.

I like that the magic is both something they sort of have innately, like something they tap into, and something that doesn’t come easily. They have to work hard to learn to control it.

I liked the friends too. Cody is a natural negotiator—always trying to smooth things over and find common ground. Seth is a little harder to like because he’s so set against bringing Luke into their group, but he’s fiercely loyal and protective. I enjoyed Brad’s roommate Mateo, who had a fun personality. And Luke’s roommate Alexei seemed kind and loyal too.

I don’t often read paranormal romance, but this one sounded intriguing and it was! Not being super familiar with all of the paranormal tropes and kinds of magic systems, I can’t say how unique this one is, but I found the magic to be mysterious and interesting. The action scenes were exciting and well written. I never got confused about what was happening, but I did feel anxiety about the outcome.

I do wish there had been more info about The Lust. Like, would it still have kicked in if Brad and Like were separated for a while (say over a school break)? Or now that they’re together did it go away?

Also, I wish there had been a little more development of Luke’s friendship with Alexei. He’s there at the beginning and the end, but there’s barely any mention of him in the middle, so it makes it hard to understand what motivated some of his actions.

Overall, this was a compelling and fun book. I am definitely looking forward to the next one.

[Nina ~ Meleth Bookaddicted ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lust by Devon McCormack is a captivating blend of bi-awakening and paranormal, with a slight enemies-to-lovers touch.

Even though it felt like I was thrown smack dab into the middle of an ongoing story, I was utterly engrossed from the get-go, especially in the tumultuous connection between Brad and Luke, and their crazy chemistry as their initial rivalry quickly ignites into an all-consuming lust. The intensity of their bond is palpable, and their inability to stay apart adds a sizzling edge to the narrative.

Set against the backdrop of college life, this tale takes one wild turn after another as the characters navigate interdimensional challenges, bizarre creatures, and the enigmatic world of magic. I found myself alternating between laughter and suspense, fully engaged in the unpredictability of it all.

The spin on witchcraft here is truly unique, as Luke grapples with his strange powers that appear out of nowhere. Brad serves as a grounding force for Luke, and together they create a dynamic that is both stabilizing and electric. The mystery of their, and the other boys’, powers lingers throughout, adding to the intrigue.

In summary, Lust is a thrilling journey filled with magic, mystery, and an irresistible tension between the MCs. I’m excited to see what’s next in story for these guys!

[Betty Loves Books Galore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enemies to more paranormal romance, featuring Luke and Brad, and is book one in the Saints & Sinners series.

This book kicks off the series with a really interesting paranormal setup that immediately grabbed my attention. I especially loved the magical-lust element, the intense, uncontrollable attraction added a delicious edge to every scene and kept me completely engaged. It felt like a fated mates.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM paranormal romance
Enemies to more
Academy
Golden boy x loner
Hurt / Comfort
Bullying
Magical lust
Bi awakening
Spicy times
First times
Suspense / Mystery
Found family
HEA

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

4.5 stars

Well I’m thoroughly hooked on the Sinners after our steamy, magical introduction through Brad and Luke.

“What Luke and I do…that’s just us.
Wild, feral lust.
As though our bodies were designed for each other.”

Luke and Brad are definitely drawn to one another and in the most enjoyable ways. I really liked watching these two navigate a rocky beginning to a solid partnership.

The mystery that surrounds not only this enigmatic but fascinating campus has its hold on me, and I must know it all, from the full history to all the players, even those who weren’t shown, mhmm, in the best of light. From uncertain magic to certain trouble, I am lusting after more of this world.

[Book Addict · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first half of this book, but the second half seemed to lose steam and fell flat for me.

[Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this and all the paranormal aspects. It was intriguing and I kept wanting to read faster to find out what happened next.

[M. B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure how to write a review for this book.
It has many entertaining and interesting scenes, but I missed something… 


The connection between Luke and Brad was a bit too artificial for me. I mean I get that the book is called ‘Lust’. But somewhere along the line they fell in love and I… didn’t really see it. 

Sure the sex was hot, and plenty, but I didn’t think they got to know each other much outside the sheets. 


The back and forth between Brad’s friend and Luke was also rather annoying. Seth didn’t want Luke to be too involved and have their secrets. But at some point at least he should’ve realized that they’re on the same side. 


It was also a bit too convenient to just transcript a book to get all the otherworldly magic secrets. Just like that they knew so many ancient secrets and histories…  And where did the writer of said book get his information from? There were a few holes like that, that made me not enjoy the paranormal aspect as much as I hoped for. 

[369Pages · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.25⭐️
This book has so many cool aspects. I truly thought I would enjoy it. I mean, the following themes sound amazing at face value:
-paranormal romance with magic powers
-s*x magic
-monster hunting
-magic that forces MC to be drawn to his enemy
-therefore enemy MCs needing to be close to each other to relieve the stress the magic puts on them 👀
-lots of 🌶️
-secret society vibes

The unfortunate thing was that I don’t think that the plot was actually well executed. A lot of the plot relied on characters just slowly telling backstory to one of the MCs. The writing style didn’t vibe with me. I’m sure others will like this book, but it wasn’t for me.

[Emily · Rating 1 out of 5]

So, SO bad 3 like worse than I could've imagined, given how I usually feel about Devon books.

Sigh.

[Stephanie Oldeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I devoured this book! It's giving Shadowhunters meets The Covenant and I was here 👏 for 👏 it 👏!

Luke has just started attending St. Lawrence college, but he's already become the victim of Brad, a bully who constantly confronts him; Seth, who may or may not be a hypnotist; and Cody, who plays mind games. Luke just wants to lay low and embrace his place at St. Lawrence as a legacy attendee, but something inexplicable keeps drawing him into Brad's orbit, and being apart from him grows physically painful. While giving in to the attraction between them wasn't planned, Luke and Brad quickly settle their differences and become nearly inseparable. But Luke isn't stupid, and he knows something weird is happening and that Brad, Seth, and Cody have powers they shouldn't have. Determined to prove to them that he belongs at St. Lawrence, Luke vows to not give up his place there and promises to help stop the evil entity that Cody saw in a vision. Soon time is running out, the boys must learn to trust each other, and Brad and Luke must prepare for the worst. Despite the risks, it's the only way to protect the campus - and the world - from unspeakable evil.

I knew from the beginning of this book that it was going to be amazing. It smashed the demon hunting aspect of Shadowhunters with the magic of The Covenant and with a sprinkle of the occult. The Sinners' powers were cool and unique, and I enjoyed learning about their magic. I liked the mystery of Luke's own powers and wonder if his legacy is why he seems so strong. I liked seeing the training process and learning the history of the Sinners.

My favorite part, obviously, was Luke and Brad. While it first seemed that they were enemies, Brad was very sweet. He was so supportive of Luke once they started to realize they were better together than apart. And Brad was so patient while he was teaching Luke magic. Not to mention that the spice was absolutely scorching. These boys know how to bang! And basically every time they touched they were doing it, so there was never a dull moment!

I'm really intrigued about Alexei's strange behavior. Are we going to get a "fifth son of Ipswitch" moment? And then I can't wait to find out if Dan knows more than he is letting on. There are a few loose strings that have yet to be resolved!

If I had to complain about something, I would say that the fact Luke and Brad had to get it on for Luke to focus his powers was a liiiiiitle much. But it was also hot, so I guess I can't complain too much. And then I wish that the monster part had been more prevalent or longer in this book, but I'm hopeful that it will continue in the next one!

Overall I really loved this book. It was sweet and spicy with a unique spin on the magic elements. I'm excited to see what will happen next! 5/5 🌟

Tim Paige narrates and did an excellent job bringing Luke and Brad to life. 4.5/5 🌟

[Izzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

****4 "Give me more of this Chaos" Stars****

Fair warning, I had no idea what this book was about when I started reading. But it's a new Devon book. Who cares what it's about, I'm still going to read it! By chapter 3 I was like "Wait? What?" Then I went MAGIC?!? THERE'S MAGIC!!!! And then I was hooked. Chaos, magic, university and red-hot chemistry?? Yes please. More of this please!!

I already love Fantasy as a genre; anything supernatural makes this little bookworm very happy. Throw in a little M/M and I'm solid. So this one really hit the spot. I wasn't kidding when I said I'll read anything Devon writes. I love his characters. I love how they're strong, yet vulnerable. They're ditzy, and smart, brave nerds and self-aware Himbos.

This one was no different. Brad and his Straight Boy Luke. I really appreciated how the angst came from external forces and not Luke fighting with what he'd figured out about himself. Although, I think Brad could probably turn anyone, let's be real. Who doesn't love the hot jock who's hung and has real emotional depth? I really enjoyed the supernatural elements in this one and am really looking forward to the next one because by all accounts its going to get crazier. I think I was hoping to find out Brad was the personification of the deadly sin Lust but that wasn't quite what happened. Who knows, maybe we get more of this in the next installment.

I think with everything going on all around us right now, this one was just the right amount of escapism and controlled chaos I needed. A mental break if you will. There's a baddie, there's a plan, there's a HEA..at least for now. I can't wait to see what sheer terror Devon will unleash on us with the second book. Maybe it'll be something apocalyptic. Who knows.

The romantic elements of this story were also a sight to behold. Again, scorching hate-filled lust. One of my favourite tropes. The whole "I really hate you, but shut up you're so hot I can't help myself" thing? Superb. No notes. Watching these two go from quasi enemies to boyfriends was such a treat. I can't wait for more! Especially if it means we get to see a different side to Seth because hoooo boy does he have a stick up *ss. What a fun time this one was!!

ARC REVIEW

[GreenwingReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where to start? This story packs a punch with dynamic characters and an engaging plot. Overall, I found it interesting and I got pulled into the world Devon is building.

The story follows Luke, a new student at St. Lawerence College, as he navigates finding his way and building relationships. When he first encounters Brad and Seth, they are immediate enemies, but Luke doesn't know why. Despite their animosity, there is something pulling Brad and Luke together, and the more he learns, the more Luke begins to question his whole identity.

There was a lot happening in this story. Luke has a tragic past and has never really dealt with that. There is a lot about his parents that he never knew, but the trio of Cody, Seth, and Brad know more than they are willing to share.

I had a hard time with Seth's character; he really wasn't likeable aside form his devote care for Cody. I thought Cody was okay. Brad was likeable once he and Luke got together and we got to see the "real" Brad. However, there was so much smex, it was hard to buy into the emotional development between Luke and Brad, as most of that happens off-page. You see more of the love between them toward the end, but it seemed kind of sudden because so much of its evolution happened off-page.

The gratuitous smex got a bit ridiculous, especially as it relates to their powers. There was no mention of the two previous Sinners needing to engage in those acts to access their powers, so it felt like it was contrived simply to add more spicy scenes.

I thought the description of the magic and the monster were really well done. I could picture the monster in my mind and understand how terrifying it would be. There is obviously something up with Alexei and I look forward to more of the series to uncover those mysteries. I liked Cody, so I look forward to his book though I think it's obvious who his love interest will be and I'm not such a fan of that character, but we will see!

Bottom line, the MCs are likeable, the series is well worth the read, and I look forward to more.

[Brianne McCallum · Rating 5 out of 5]

M/M
Enemies to lovers
Bi awakening
Fantasy/mystery/Dark magic/posession/sworn auths/paranormal/evil spirits/family history
Mutual hurt/comfort physically
Uni
High steam
Instalust

4.5

TW: One MC abandoned by parent and dealing with illness of another parent. One MC dealing with flashbacks of both his parents death.

I love all of Devon mccormacks books so reading this wasn't even a question for me despite having zero interest in magic. I decided to go into open minded and not let my lack of interest in that effect my review. As it turns out I didn't even need to be open minded because yes this had magic but it was more about curses and evil spirits and that is right up my alley.

A group of friends at a Uni have magical powers. They have insight that the new student is in danger if he goes to this Uni so they do everything to bully him away. Unfortunately for them Luke has personal reasons for being there and is determined to stay. There is also a curse making Luke and Brad crave each other despite Luke being straight and causing them physical pain when they are apart.

This was a super steamy read. It also had a fantastic plot that kept my interest from start to finish and was suspenseful at times. I loved the characters. Not just the 2 MCs. The world building in this was fantastic and I loved the protective relationship between Seth and Cody. I am so looking forward to reading their story. Brad and Luke had great scorching hot chemisty. I loved their relationship development. It is very intense but in the end quite romantic too. Brad is so swoony protective. I loved them together.

Not quite 5 stars for me because I did feel like the first quarter comes off a little repetitive. There is also a ton of info to absorb all at once. It did pick up after that though and was great. There was just 2 other small things that irked me slightly after that. Of which I can't talk about without spoilering. Overall a fantastic read and I can't wait for the next book.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Luke has always wanted to go to St. Lawrence for college. After losing both his parents within years of one another, he wanted to go the same college as his dad to feel closer to him. Sophomore year and he has finally made it with a scholarship. But things aren’t what he expected. First, there is Brad. The guy he is insanely attracted to but doesn’t get why him and his friends are so set on messing with him. Luke barely is coming to this realization that he is attracted to a guy for the first time and to one who clearly has some beef with him. But then weird things are starting to happen. And nothing is truly making sense. But it’s the only explanation…magic. Luke realizes that Brad and his friends have magic and according to them, something bad is coming. And Luke is in the center. Brad thought their plan to get Luke to leave would be simple. If Luke goes, the visions of bad things happening can’t happen. But it’s not that easy. Not when he can’t stay away with look and the chemistry and attraction between them is off the charts. Not when Luke begins to show magic of his own. There is so much they don’t know and understand about this world and powers they stumbled into but what they do know is that they can’t stand idle. They’ll have to work together to figure what is coming for them and how to stop it. I really enjoyed Luke and Brad’s story. The magic of this world was definitely beyond interesting and so different from other contemporary books with a magical and paranormal twist. I was super intrigued to see how the magic worked and all the paranormal things that came with it. Luke and Brad were also a fun couple! Loved their banter and the way their relationship changed from being more physical to more emotional. I’m definitely invested in this series and can’t wait for book two!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Janette · Rating 4 out of 5]

LUST is the first in a series of something new and different from Devon McCormack, and if you’re a paranormal romance lover like me, you need to grab this one. I’m most familiar with his contemporary work, but when I saw news of a paranormal series, I knew I had to read it. This one had me 100% invested from the time the enemies even hinted they might become lovers, and the paranormal witchcraft adds an exciting layer of mystery and suspense. It feels like we’ve only begun to scratch the surface of what’s at play in this mystical world.

This story is a fun spin on the old drama where an ancient evil resurfaces to threaten modern society. In this series, the Sinners are tasked with protecting humanity by working tirelessly to uncover the secrets of the past in order to vanquish the threat. It wouldn’t be a rightful battle of good vs evil without some mystical guides to provide insight along the way.

In the Sinners, McCormack gives us a group of perfectly imperfect college guys leading the fight. I wasn’t particularly enamored with any one of them, but overall, they’re likable and have an interesting vibe and dynamic. They have their issues - and plenty of tension - but they also form a pretty great found family.

The synopsis labels this one “high steam” which feels like a bit of an understatement. There’s a clear, magnetic chemistry between Brad and Luke that burns hot, and while their magic being rooted in lust is intriguing, it can be a bit much. College boys having an abundance of sex for the good of humanity? I’m sure there are worse things.

All in all, I really enjoy how McCormack weaves this story as if you’re along for the ride rather than watching from afar. His creativity and cleverness are evident in many of the story’s elements, including the lore and world building, but especially in the strategic reveals and red herrings delivered throughout. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

TW/CW: death of parents (off page but discussed at length on page)

*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*

[Daryn Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lust ARC Review-

Luke and Brad 🩵

Luke begins his sophomore year at St. Lawrence University after transferring from his previous college with high hopes but after encountering Brad during what is supposed to be a casual game of soccer, three things are apparent to him:

First: His experience with bullies from his younger years isn’t over.
Second: Despite never feeling or recognizing any signs that he is into men, he is feeling uncontrollable lust for Brad despite his bullying.
Third: Brad and his friends are somehow using… magic to bully him.

To Luke, it’s obvious that Brad’s magic has everything to do with the lust Luke has for him. What the hell will Luke do now, besides give in to his desire, to get these guys to leave him alone? What even is going on with these guys?

I was already kicking my feet with the opening chapter of this book, laughing and thrilled to find out where this would go. The book instantly hooked me in with the first taste of mystery. I am so glad that the blurb only reveals so much, because going in without a hint of what would happen, other than the Lust and that Brad and his pal’s have magic, was the right choice.

What I will say is that I got chills with the direction this book went and when I finished it, I knew this would be a series I would follow all the way to the end. I love love LOVE Brad and Luke. Welcome to the club boys; you are now a part of the couples I refer to as my BABIES! These two are just as precious as they are explosive in various ways. The rest of the characters were a great addition, whether it be totally positive or not. Brad’s friends were intriguing and with each layer shown, I adored them more.

My mind is just blown, my emotions are shaken but I’m completely happy about it. Even if I am now fearful for what these lovely guys will go through in the future, this series started off with a complete winner for me. This book kept me on the edge of my seat and emotional just as much as it was filled with, ahem, intense passionate moments! Full round of applause from me for this incredible paranormal romance!!

5/5🌟

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! It pulled me out of my reading slump, and I couldn’t put it down—I finished it in one sitting.

I love how there’s an overarching storyline that spans the entire series, with each book also having its own specific plot as well. This one focuses on Brad and Luke, but the supporting characters and their storylines really tie everything together beautifully. Brad is part of the Sinners group with Chad and Seth, and they’re skeptical of Luke, a newcomer to St. Lawrence. To say they don’t start off on the best terms would be an understatement. Brad and Luke clash at first, but their chemistry is undeniable from the very beginning. I love how Luke doesn’t back down—he’s feisty and stands up for himself against Brad, making their electric chemistry even more captivating. Watching their relationship evolve from enemies to lovers and eventually boyfriends was a joy.

The book also highlights the dynamics of the other two Sinners—Cody and Seth—and their growth as the group transitions from a trio to a quartet. It was so much fun to see the entire group’s development throughout the story. I’m already so eager for the next book, even though it won’t be out until next year! I need more answers now lol! That said, this book wraps up nicely with a HEA, though the overarching storyline continues throughout the series, so I’m excited to see what happens next. This series has me completely hooked!

[J.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars 🌟

I don't know why, but this book felt like I was reading a smuttier version of Teen Wolf. And, yes, that's a good thing.

I was incredibly invested in the paranormal events, so much that the amount of sex scenes increasingly became frustrating. Their chemistry was related to magic, but it was annoying at times when an interesting, supernatural situation was going to happen and then suddenly, there's a steamy scene, ruining the mystery.

Though, it was funny how unbothered Luke was by his bi-awakening. He was so chill about it.

“And I’m straight. But let’s just rub one out, and then we can talk. Deal?”

The grief that Luke experiences was kind of unexpected, too. I think it really added a good melancholic touch to the book. Losing a loved one can dominate somebody's whole world and influence their actions. It doesn't stop at missing them, and it's not always rational. It gets to us in ways we don't always understand. Here, there was also magic on top of everything.

“A lot of things don’t kill us, but sometimes we wish they would.”

I liked the last part of the story better because we finally had some answers (some being the key word).

I honestly don't care whose story is next, but I'm definitely reading it once it's released. Still, if it's Seth's book, I really hope he won't be as irritating as he was in this book, because the guy's entire personality was being a dick for no reason.

[Aimee Lou · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been thinking about this book for a few days and I'm still not sure how I truly feel about it. I normally love anything Devon McCormack writes. But this felt different. And I felt lost the entire time. I kept going back like I may have missed something. This is why it took me so long to read. And I just couldn't bond with the characters.

Luke wants to attend this prestigious college because his Dad attended and he wants to keep that legacy alive. He lost both his parents and was raised by his Godfather. But Luke is met with some bullying right from the start.

Brad and his group of friends, like 3 other guys, have these magical powers. An outside friend of the group brings Luke in to the mix and Brad immediately hates on Luke. Then all of a sudden, Luke, who is straight, is now into Brad because Brad is using his powers of Lust on him?? I'm still confused about that. LOL!

But I feel like the story just drops us into this magical realism universe and we are left to figure out what the heck is going on.

With that said, I didn't not like the story. Brad and Luke were super hot together. This is definitely where Devon's writing shown through for me. And I started to kind of get into it the closer we get to the end. So I am very interested on how the second book will proceed. I'm sure we will be focusing on other characters, but I'm hoping for more world building. And with that, questions answered about this magical universe.