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A Devil to Die for #1
The Devil's Embrace
Calix Valimir has one goal…
Catch the killer terrorizing the galaxy and make it off the planet Emergence faster than anyone can recognize him. Of course, that’s a pipe dream, and he’s identified the very first night he’s there. Fortunately for him, he’s rescued by the resident golden boy, Doctor Aodhan Solace. Cal’s past mistakes keep him from letting anyone in, but there’s something about the charming doctor that has him instinctively letting down his walls, no matter how hard he struggles against doing so. He knows no one in this universe is ever what they seem, that no one can be trusted, and yet with every passing devilish touch, he falls deeper and deeper for the man he knows must be a liar. Because everyone is. Even himself.
Aodhan Solace likes games.
But he doesn’t really have the patience to pull them off for long. What starts out as a passing interest quickly turns to desire when the detective submits to every one of his twisted demands. For a man who claims to be working on the side of good, Cal begs so prettily when he’s restrained. Aodhan has a reputation to uphold, but the more time he spends with the detective, the more certain he is that it’s time to take off the mask and show him who he really is. There’s only one problem. Convincing Mercy to let him.
Mercy is always in control.
This situation is no different. When Aodhan comes to him begging they take a third, he plays hard to get to keep things interesting, but the reality is Mercy knows exactly what he wants.
And how to get it.
Trigger Warning: This is a Dark MMM Sci-Fi Horror Romance, which means there are many themes that some might find disturbing. Some of these include, but are not limited to, dub-con, violence, stalking, and explicit sexual content not suitable for all readers. Please be sure to read the Author's Note for a complete list of warnings! HEA guarantee! This is also book one of a trilogy, not a standalone.
Catch the killer terrorizing the galaxy and make it off the planet Emergence faster than anyone can recognize him. Of course, that’s a pipe dream, and he’s identified the very first night he’s there. Fortunately for him, he’s rescued by the resident golden boy, Doctor Aodhan Solace. Cal’s past mistakes keep him from letting anyone in, but there’s something about the charming doctor that has him instinctively letting down his walls, no matter how hard he struggles against doing so. He knows no one in this universe is ever what they seem, that no one can be trusted, and yet with every passing devilish touch, he falls deeper and deeper for the man he knows must be a liar. Because everyone is. Even himself.
Aodhan Solace likes games.
But he doesn’t really have the patience to pull them off for long. What starts out as a passing interest quickly turns to desire when the detective submits to every one of his twisted demands. For a man who claims to be working on the side of good, Cal begs so prettily when he’s restrained. Aodhan has a reputation to uphold, but the more time he spends with the detective, the more certain he is that it’s time to take off the mask and show him who he really is. There’s only one problem. Convincing Mercy to let him.
Mercy is always in control.
This situation is no different. When Aodhan comes to him begging they take a third, he plays hard to get to keep things interesting, but the reality is Mercy knows exactly what he wants.
And how to get it.
Trigger Warning: This is a Dark MMM Sci-Fi Horror Romance, which means there are many themes that some might find disturbing. Some of these include, but are not limited to, dub-con, violence, stalking, and explicit sexual content not suitable for all readers. Please be sure to read the Author's Note for a complete list of warnings! HEA guarantee! This is also book one of a trilogy, not a standalone.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2025
183 people are currently reading
1412 people want to read
About the author
Chani Lynn Feener
62 books1,590 followersLibrarians, please don't add books. I stay up to date and add them myself and have ended up with many multiple copies because others add them later. Thank you!
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
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June 2, 2025Read the triggers on this one before diving in. I found it a bit darker than Chani’s usual books. No rating on this one… it’s well written and an interesting-and HOT!- start to a new series, but it wasn’t for me. I can handle pretty much any level of sexual violence between MCs but there was a scene involving an innocent bystander that triggered me. Without spoilers, it gave me the same feeling as when “the dog dies” and I had to stop.
I’m learning that while I love Chani’s writing, the ‘rich elite douche’ books are more my speed than the ‘broody complicated detective’ books.
I’m learning that while I love Chani’s writing, the ‘rich elite douche’ books are more my speed than the ‘broody complicated detective’ books.
April 16, 2025
Another dark and mysterious banger from the master of dark sci-fi romance! Thank you to Chani for allowing me to read an early copy of this book 💕
This book centres around Calix, a Detective who has returned to his home planet Emergency to investigate a series of brutal murders. But he has a difficult history on the planet, after an accident that he caused as a teenager. Fighting against the prejudice of the locals is difficult, especially after he is assaulted on his first night back…
Which leads him to meet devastatingly attractive doctor, Aodhan Solace (who you will definitely recognise if you have read Devil May Breathe!). Aodhan offers to help Cal with his investigation and Calix is more than happy to accept; especially when their relationship deepens into something more than just professional courtesy. But Calix can’t trust anyone here, not really - and especially not his sexy doctor or the strange Director of the hospital, Titus Mercer.
I loved seeing Aodhan and Mercy again and getting more of their story, plus the mystery had me guessing throughout! Calix is a great new character and I loved learning his backstory and his building attraction with Aodhan. This is the first book in a series and I’m so excited for the next book!
Read The Devil’s Embrace for:
✨ MMM (although mainly MM in this book!)
✨ First in a new series
✨ Dark sci-fi romance
✨ Murder mystery
✨ Detective x Doctor (x Hospital Director)
✨ Mysterious underground parties
✨ Pain kink, blood play
✨ Dom/Sub dynamics
Thanks again to the author for an early copy of this book for proofreading 💕 It’s available on 31st May.
TW: This book is dark (including rape and murder) so please make sure to check the trigger warnings if you need to before you start 🖤
This book centres around Calix, a Detective who has returned to his home planet Emergency to investigate a series of brutal murders. But he has a difficult history on the planet, after an accident that he caused as a teenager. Fighting against the prejudice of the locals is difficult, especially after he is assaulted on his first night back…
Which leads him to meet devastatingly attractive doctor, Aodhan Solace (who you will definitely recognise if you have read Devil May Breathe!). Aodhan offers to help Cal with his investigation and Calix is more than happy to accept; especially when their relationship deepens into something more than just professional courtesy. But Calix can’t trust anyone here, not really - and especially not his sexy doctor or the strange Director of the hospital, Titus Mercer.
I loved seeing Aodhan and Mercy again and getting more of their story, plus the mystery had me guessing throughout! Calix is a great new character and I loved learning his backstory and his building attraction with Aodhan. This is the first book in a series and I’m so excited for the next book!
Read The Devil’s Embrace for:
✨ MMM (although mainly MM in this book!)
✨ First in a new series
✨ Dark sci-fi romance
✨ Murder mystery
✨ Detective x Doctor (x Hospital Director)
✨ Mysterious underground parties
✨ Pain kink, blood play
✨ Dom/Sub dynamics
Thanks again to the author for an early copy of this book for proofreading 💕 It’s available on 31st May.
TW: This book is dark (including rape and murder) so please make sure to check the trigger warnings if you need to before you start 🖤
June 19, 2025
I want the next book now!! This is book 1 in a 3 book series. And it starts out really well in book 1.
This is a SUPER dark book so definitely mind the TWs!!
It’s mind bending. You think you know one thing but it ends up being something else. Cops, doctors and killers. Everyone is a suspect.
Now I wait desperately for Book 2 & 3 😬😬😬
This is a SUPER dark book so definitely mind the TWs!!
It’s mind bending. You think you know one thing but it ends up being something else. Cops, doctors and killers. Everyone is a suspect.
Now I wait desperately for Book 2 & 3 😬😬😬
June 2, 2025
I wanted Aodhan and Mercy's story as soon as Aodhan popped up in Devil May Breathe, and I was not disappointed! This book fits really well with the Devil's of Vitality series, and it also had a similar feel to the Foxglove Grove series too with the masks and secret society.
This is the first part of a trilogy and the majority of the book was really setting the scene and introducing Calix to Aodhan. Calix is definitely dark enough to fit in with Aodhan and Mercy, but we don't really get to see all that much of Mercy in this installment. There's a lot going on to make sure that Calix is considering staying on his home planet after his retirement from the IPF, but Calix's decision sets Aodhan off and I can't wait to see him in action.
That cliffhanger ending was sooooo good and I just need to see the aftermath immediately. I need to see what Aodhan, Mercy and Calix are going to do next. I'm also hoping we'll get a Zane and Pavel cameo at some point...
This is the first part of a trilogy and the majority of the book was really setting the scene and introducing Calix to Aodhan. Calix is definitely dark enough to fit in with Aodhan and Mercy, but we don't really get to see all that much of Mercy in this installment. There's a lot going on to make sure that Calix is considering staying on his home planet after his retirement from the IPF, but Calix's decision sets Aodhan off and I can't wait to see him in action.
That cliffhanger ending was sooooo good and I just need to see the aftermath immediately. I need to see what Aodhan, Mercy and Calix are going to do next. I'm also hoping we'll get a Zane and Pavel cameo at some point...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2025
1,5*
(DEUTSCH WEITER UNTEN)
It’s been a long time since I last read a book by Chani Lynn Feener, and while I enjoyed it (it was nice to immerse myself in her world again), there were also things that bothered me.
We all know that these books are problematic, and that’s not the issue for me. I read this stuff because it’s problematic and because it appeals to me from time to time. Still, I would like to see more depth.
I feel like everything (characters and story) has flattened out a bit over time, but maybe that’s just my perception.
The character I liked was Mercy, because I believed his behaviour.
Cal and Aodhan were too much like ‘I’ll write this, but I haven’t worked it out’ for me. I didn’t buy their changes in behaviour (especially Aodhan). Cal’s thoughts were absolutely absurd, and the scene we start the book with was also completely strange from his point of view and gave me the creeps. Dub-Con/Non-Con is all well and good... but sell it to me properly. Somehow, it seemed very ridiculous to me, and the so-called BDSM scenes were... difficult for me.
The storyline and resolution of the murder case were again one of those ‘I’ll write this, but I haven’t worked it out’ situations. It was completely unbelievable and much too fast, and as a reader I felt completely not taken seriously.
Will I still read volume two? Yes.
Will I get upset again? Probably.
Whatever.
(DEUTSCH)
Lange her, dass ich mal wieder ein Buch von Chani Lynn Feener gelesen habe und ich hab es zum einen genossen (war schön, mal wieder bei ihr einzutauchen) und zum anderen hat mich aber irgendwie zu viel gestört.
Dass die Bücher problematisch sind, wissen wir ja und das ist auch nicht das Problem, dass ich habe. Ich lese den Kram ja, weil er irgendwie problematisch ist und mich das von Zeit zu Zeit einfach abholt. Dennoch würde ich mir irgendwie mehr tiefe wünschen.
Ich hab das Gefühl, dass alles (Charaktere und Story) mit der Zeit ein wenig abgeflacht ist, aber vllt ist das auch nur meine Empfindung.
Wen ich von den Charakteren mochte, war Mercy, denn ihm habe ich sein Verhalten abgekauft.
Cal und Aodhan waren mir zu „ich schreib das mal, habs aber nicht ausgearbeitet“. Ich habe ihnen ihre Wechsel im Verhalten (besonders Aodhan) nicht abgekauft. Cals Gedankengänge waren absolut absurd und auch die Szene, mit der wir ins Buch starten, war von seiner Sicht aus absolut seltsam und hat in mir einen Ick ausgelöst. Dub-Con/Non-Con schön und gut ... aber verkauf es mir auch richtig. Irgendwie war es für mich doch sehr ins Lächerliche gezogen und auch die sogenannten BDSM-Szenen waren ... schwierig für mich.
Auch die Storyline und Auflösung des Mordfalles waren wieder dieses „ich schreib das mal, habs aber nicht ausgearbeitet“. Es war absolut unglaubwürdig und viel zu schnell und ich hab mich als Leserin absolut nicht ernstgenommen gefühlt.
Werde ich Band zwei trotzdem lesen. Ja.
Werde ich mich wieder aufregen. Wahrscheinlich schon.
Egal.
(DEUTSCH WEITER UNTEN)
It’s been a long time since I last read a book by Chani Lynn Feener, and while I enjoyed it (it was nice to immerse myself in her world again), there were also things that bothered me.
We all know that these books are problematic, and that’s not the issue for me. I read this stuff because it’s problematic and because it appeals to me from time to time. Still, I would like to see more depth.
I feel like everything (characters and story) has flattened out a bit over time, but maybe that’s just my perception.
The character I liked was Mercy, because I believed his behaviour.
Cal and Aodhan were too much like ‘I’ll write this, but I haven’t worked it out’ for me. I didn’t buy their changes in behaviour (especially Aodhan). Cal’s thoughts were absolutely absurd, and the scene we start the book with was also completely strange from his point of view and gave me the creeps. Dub-Con/Non-Con is all well and good... but sell it to me properly. Somehow, it seemed very ridiculous to me, and the so-called BDSM scenes were... difficult for me.
The storyline and resolution of the murder case were again one of those ‘I’ll write this, but I haven’t worked it out’ situations. It was completely unbelievable and much too fast, and as a reader I felt completely not taken seriously.
Will I still read volume two? Yes.
Will I get upset again? Probably.
Whatever.
(DEUTSCH)
Lange her, dass ich mal wieder ein Buch von Chani Lynn Feener gelesen habe und ich hab es zum einen genossen (war schön, mal wieder bei ihr einzutauchen) und zum anderen hat mich aber irgendwie zu viel gestört.
Dass die Bücher problematisch sind, wissen wir ja und das ist auch nicht das Problem, dass ich habe. Ich lese den Kram ja, weil er irgendwie problematisch ist und mich das von Zeit zu Zeit einfach abholt. Dennoch würde ich mir irgendwie mehr tiefe wünschen.
Ich hab das Gefühl, dass alles (Charaktere und Story) mit der Zeit ein wenig abgeflacht ist, aber vllt ist das auch nur meine Empfindung.
Wen ich von den Charakteren mochte, war Mercy, denn ihm habe ich sein Verhalten abgekauft.
Cal und Aodhan waren mir zu „ich schreib das mal, habs aber nicht ausgearbeitet“. Ich habe ihnen ihre Wechsel im Verhalten (besonders Aodhan) nicht abgekauft. Cals Gedankengänge waren absolut absurd und auch die Szene, mit der wir ins Buch starten, war von seiner Sicht aus absolut seltsam und hat in mir einen Ick ausgelöst. Dub-Con/Non-Con schön und gut ... aber verkauf es mir auch richtig. Irgendwie war es für mich doch sehr ins Lächerliche gezogen und auch die sogenannten BDSM-Szenen waren ... schwierig für mich.
Auch die Storyline und Auflösung des Mordfalles waren wieder dieses „ich schreib das mal, habs aber nicht ausgearbeitet“. Es war absolut unglaubwürdig und viel zu schnell und ich hab mich als Leserin absolut nicht ernstgenommen gefühlt.
Werde ich Band zwei trotzdem lesen. Ja.
Werde ich mich wieder aufregen. Wahrscheinlich schon.
Egal.
April 21, 2025
In this first novel, the three characters are introduced but in a horrific way. Calix, an IPF Detective is brutally assaulted at his high school reunion and Aodhan, a Doctor and Surgeon is dominant and covers for him. Titus is the hospital Director and it is clear in the midst of a serial killer investigation that these three will be together. They are possessive, controlling and often brutal in their extreme kinky desires. There is blood and knife play, masochism and spanking, pain and torture and a shocking ending to this dark, horror novel that leaves you shaken. It's a well written example of what a horror story should be.
April 11, 2025
I was fortunate enough to be part of the beta readers and got to read this early.
First and foremost, read the trigger warnings beforehand!! It's very important as this is a Sci-Fi Horror Romance.
Now, I must say, Chani Lynn Feener never disappoints. This book is slightly different than her other ones, as she decided to in a darker direction for both the plot and the romance. But as always, I never know what to expect (in a good way)
I absolutely loved all 3 main characters, but even tho he had the least appearance, Titus certainly stole the show for me. Especially his "abilities". I've never seen them be used in that way before and it was very interesting to read. (I'm trying not to give too much away)
I very much look forward to the next book in this series (and next book from Chani in general lol) and I will absolutely be thinking about these three 24/7 until the next book. Especially with that ending.
10/10 would recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First and foremost, read the trigger warnings beforehand!! It's very important as this is a Sci-Fi Horror Romance.
Now, I must say, Chani Lynn Feener never disappoints. This book is slightly different than her other ones, as she decided to in a darker direction for both the plot and the romance. But as always, I never know what to expect (in a good way)
I absolutely loved all 3 main characters, but even tho he had the least appearance, Titus certainly stole the show for me. Especially his "abilities". I've never seen them be used in that way before and it was very interesting to read. (I'm trying not to give too much away)
I very much look forward to the next book in this series (and next book from Chani in general lol) and I will absolutely be thinking about these three 24/7 until the next book. Especially with that ending.
10/10 would recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2025
Oh my god!!!!
I wanna preface this by saying I am NOT usually an MMM girly …but …where this is going ?? 100% yes.
This is delicious, there is plot, there is already some sexy buildup and cal? OH how I love him. And that ending??? I’m gonna love the other two just as much I can already feel it.
Yes it’s dark (so read the TW) but it’s just the right amount of it. Can’t wait for the other books 👏
I wanna preface this by saying I am NOT usually an MMM girly …but …where this is going ?? 100% yes.
This is delicious, there is plot, there is already some sexy buildup and cal? OH how I love him. And that ending??? I’m gonna love the other two just as much I can already feel it.
Yes it’s dark (so read the TW) but it’s just the right amount of it. Can’t wait for the other books 👏
April 11, 2025
Dark and twisty! 🖤
This book is intense and deliciously dark. You should definitely check the trigger warnings in case it's not your thing, but I loved it. I wasn't ready for it to end when it was just getting juicy. 😆 I just want more already! It's so well written that a part that I thought would squig me out just ended up being hot. It's so good! Calix is a very complicated and intriguing character. I love him. I can't wait for the next book!
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I will also be purchasing it as soon as it goes live. I want to keep it in my hoard.
This book is intense and deliciously dark. You should definitely check the trigger warnings in case it's not your thing, but I loved it. I wasn't ready for it to end when it was just getting juicy. 😆 I just want more already! It's so well written that a part that I thought would squig me out just ended up being hot. It's so good! Calix is a very complicated and intriguing character. I love him. I can't wait for the next book!
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I will also be purchasing it as soon as it goes live. I want to keep it in my hoard.
June 1, 2025
I like Chani Lynn Feener's books the better the darker they are - and this is really even more delicious than the other dark romance books from the same author.
Also impeccable content warnings and forword. That the bad stuff the characters do is not played down by how the author frames it will always be a favorite of mine. I feel like the bad things like on the page graphical rape are written with care by the author, even if they are described with horrible details. As safe as possible for the readers, even when horrible for the characters?
Anyways, can't wait for the next book in this series!
Also impeccable content warnings and forword. That the bad stuff the characters do is not played down by how the author frames it will always be a favorite of mine. I feel like the bad things like on the page graphical rape are written with care by the author, even if they are described with horrible details. As safe as possible for the readers, even when horrible for the characters?
Anyways, can't wait for the next book in this series!
March 4, 2026
3.5⭐
For its niche, this was honestly a pretty solid read. It has an interesting premise and enough twists to keep things entertaining.
That said, books in this lane rarely go above a 4⭐ for me personally. Still, I had fun with it — it was dark, a little messy, and definitely engaging enough to keep me reading.
For its niche, this was honestly a pretty solid read. It has an interesting premise and enough twists to keep things entertaining.
That said, books in this lane rarely go above a 4⭐ for me personally. Still, I had fun with it — it was dark, a little messy, and definitely engaging enough to keep me reading.
May 31, 2025
Amazing book once again!
I need the next book like I need oxygen! This might compete for my favorite book by thus author. Can't wait for the next.
I need the next book like I need oxygen! This might compete for my favorite book by thus author. Can't wait for the next.
April 12, 2025
Another great story! I really liked Aodhan in Devil May Breathe and am so excited we’re getting more of him. I enjoyed all of the characters in this one. It felt like there were twists at every corner. I loved this and can’t wait for more! 🖤
Definitely read the trigger warnings. This one is a bit darker. I didn’t have any issues. There’s a scene with some pizza that I thought I would find disgusting but ended up laughing at it.
I had the opportunity to BETA read this and am leaving this review voluntarily. I’m grateful to have a chance to read this early but sad that I have to wait even longer for the next one!
Definitely read the trigger warnings. This one is a bit darker. I didn’t have any issues. There’s a scene with some pizza that I thought I would find disgusting but ended up laughing at it.
I had the opportunity to BETA read this and am leaving this review voluntarily. I’m grateful to have a chance to read this early but sad that I have to wait even longer for the next one!
September 21, 2025
This book drew me in by the super hot guy on the cover. The other two covers in the series has extremely attractive men on them too. But don't be fooled. The story isn't that good. At least for me. Its supposed to be scifi, but it doesn't play into it that much. The romance was weird, everyone is psychotic and there are a lot of triggers so check you trigger warnings. A few I can think of right of the bat is blood play, on page torture and body mutilation, noncon.
It wasn't even the triggers that bothered me though. I just didn't like any of the characters and I wasn't feeling the chemistry in the romance aspect. At first I thought Id give book 2 a try, but I think I'm going to pass for this series.
It wasn't even the triggers that bothered me though. I just didn't like any of the characters and I wasn't feeling the chemistry in the romance aspect. At first I thought Id give book 2 a try, but I think I'm going to pass for this series.
July 17, 2025
Contrary to other low reviews it’s not because of the content this is getting 2 stars. My girl Chani writes dark romance so I knew that but damn she usually makes it fun and gives me match my freak vibes. This was so damn boring and I think the book being mainly single POV was a poor decision. Her other novels giving me the love interests pov and understanding their obsession with the main guy helps round out the story so well. This was just blah I didn’t care and I am so upset.
June 9, 2025
"There were two other men standing within the glass case, one dressed all in white, another dressed all in black, aside from his deep red mask. Their masks were decorated differently as well, the white one decorated in painted golden leaves, while the other had been left blank."
I usually love a Chani Lynn Feener dark themed sci-fi romance, but this one missed the mark for me. I'm not sure if it's because it was supposed to be a novella that then became the first book in what (I believe) is going to be a trilogy, but it just felt disjointed and rushed.
Make sure you check the author's TWs at the start of the book.
What To Expect:
🖤MM sci fi romance (but becoming MMM in later books)
🖤Dark themes
🖤Non con
🖤Dub con
🖤BDSM
🖤Murder mystery
🖤Cliff hanger
3 stars
I usually love a Chani Lynn Feener dark themed sci-fi romance, but this one missed the mark for me. I'm not sure if it's because it was supposed to be a novella that then became the first book in what (I believe) is going to be a trilogy, but it just felt disjointed and rushed.
Make sure you check the author's TWs at the start of the book.
What To Expect:
🖤MM sci fi romance (but becoming MMM in later books)
🖤Dark themes
🖤Non con
🖤Dub con
🖤BDSM
🖤Murder mystery
🖤Cliff hanger
3 stars
June 3, 2025
June 2025
Kindle edition
Ouch. Cliffy reveal ending. Poor Cal. Good instincts though when it came to Titus, not so good with the doctor. Had similar vibes to Devil in the details but cranking it up to the dark side. Murder, betrayal, kink etc. Poor Bruce getting caught in the cross fire. I cringed when Cal openly revealed his plans to leave. No real surprises given the blurb but still intense. Looking forward to the next one.
Kindle edition
Ouch. Cliffy reveal ending. Poor Cal. Good instincts though when it came to Titus, not so good with the doctor. Had similar vibes to Devil in the details but cranking it up to the dark side. Murder, betrayal, kink etc. Poor Bruce getting caught in the cross fire. I cringed when Cal openly revealed his plans to leave. No real surprises given the blurb but still intense. Looking forward to the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
This was a whirlwind of a read, at no point was I prepared for what was coming next. At first I was going to give this a low rating, it felt like we were being introduced to someone new every chapter. A ton of guys were thrown to us at once. BUT as it went on, I got more into it. And the more I read the more I began to appreciate it for what it was. Plus, every sex scene was amazing. The descriptors were amazing, and it was just so hot. Although, a personal hate is tue nicknames. I just can't handle hearing the word "baby" again. All that to say, I am 100% going to read the next one. I ate this up and want more!!
Thanks to book sirens for the arc 💕
Thanks to book sirens for the arc 💕
March 15, 2026
Missing a lot
I feel like I missed a whole book where Aodhan and Mercy got together. I know we got a glimpse of them in a previous series but I feel like they needed a separate book before this happened. Not a bad book just constantly felt like I was skipping a previous book.
I feel like I missed a whole book where Aodhan and Mercy got together. I know we got a glimpse of them in a previous series but I feel like they needed a separate book before this happened. Not a bad book just constantly felt like I was skipping a previous book.
May 26, 2025
Haven't gone for an ARC as fast as I have for this book. I went to the BookSirens site first thing in the morning and screamed of joy when I saw that I managed to get one of the last 10 ARCs left 😅
And let me tell you. This book did not disappoint at all.
It has a story, an investigation you are a part of and if you read Chani's previous book you will have an idea on what to expect from the characters. But still I have to admit that the ending caught me by surprise. Did not expect that at all.
Anyway, loved it and can't wait to read the next two books in the series.
P.S. Before diving into this book you might want to mind your triggers.
And let me tell you. This book did not disappoint at all.
It has a story, an investigation you are a part of and if you read Chani's previous book you will have an idea on what to expect from the characters. But still I have to admit that the ending caught me by surprise. Did not expect that at all.
Anyway, loved it and can't wait to read the next two books in the series.
P.S. Before diving into this book you might want to mind your triggers.
June 21, 2025
WHAT?? I need book 2 like now 😂
July 2, 2025
yikes
July 3, 2025
“The Devil’s Embrace,” by Chani Lynn Feener
This book reminded me a lot like her other detective series, which I adored. There is SA really quickly in the book so read the TW’s for sure. I love the entire detective psychological mixed in with scifi/ different planet type world that Chani Lynn Feener builds, nothing I have read is like it at all. Loved the characters (especially the insecure MMC, so relatable), and the M/M relationship she created in this book. The ending was everything to me and now I have to wait for more of the series :(. The book was perfect, 5 out of 5 stars.
-Stalker
-Horror
-MMM
-Psychological
-Novella
-Scifi
-Murder Mystery
Thank you for the ARC, Booksirens.
This book reminded me a lot like her other detective series, which I adored. There is SA really quickly in the book so read the TW’s for sure. I love the entire detective psychological mixed in with scifi/ different planet type world that Chani Lynn Feener builds, nothing I have read is like it at all. Loved the characters (especially the insecure MMC, so relatable), and the M/M relationship she created in this book. The ending was everything to me and now I have to wait for more of the series :(. The book was perfect, 5 out of 5 stars.
-Stalker
-Horror
-MMM
-Psychological
-Novella
-Scifi
-Murder Mystery
Thank you for the ARC, Booksirens.
July 9, 2025
Who is that fine man on the book cover oh my god.
This book was more of an introduction to a new setting and cast of characters, specifically Aodhan and Calix. I wish we got to see more of Mercy too, but that’s okay because there are apparently TWO MORE BOOKS?! I thought this was a standalone. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed reading this. The ending and accompanying twist was predictable given the story’s dark nature, but still gripping and extremely satisfying to read.
I’m excited to read the sequel and hope it has more action since the introduction is finished!
Final rating: 4 stars
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was more of an introduction to a new setting and cast of characters, specifically Aodhan and Calix. I wish we got to see more of Mercy too, but that’s okay because there are apparently TWO MORE BOOKS?! I thought this was a standalone. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed reading this. The ending and accompanying twist was predictable given the story’s dark nature, but still gripping and extremely satisfying to read.
I’m excited to read the sequel and hope it has more action since the introduction is finished!
Final rating: 4 stars
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 14, 2025
LITERALLY HELLO???? HUH
Read
June 29, 2025I'm kinda disappointed that I didn't like this book as much as I thought I would. I had two issues with this book. While I'm aware that CNC has been a big part of CLF's books this one plot twist at the end did not sit right with me. And the second is, I think this is because this was more on it being the first book in the series, I did not get the chemistry for the all three of them. While I understood the duos on their own, three of them together did not make sense to me. Second book might do a better job on that but again the way it ended didn't excite me for the second book.
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 11, 2025
*Beta Reading Review*
Chani Lynn Feener does it again! Making us all salivate for more (and getting frustrated you don't have the rest of the series to binge) , The Devil's Embrace challenges the reader at every point, making you doubt yourself until the very end.
Calix is a sympathetic character that makes you wish you could just give him a hug. Aodhan Solace is a character that makes you wish you were his type.
As a dark romance horror, and this authors first attempt for it, I loved it.
Chani Lynn Feener does it again! Making us all salivate for more (and getting frustrated you don't have the rest of the series to binge) , The Devil's Embrace challenges the reader at every point, making you doubt yourself until the very end.
Calix is a sympathetic character that makes you wish you could just give him a hug. Aodhan Solace is a character that makes you wish you were his type.
As a dark romance horror, and this authors first attempt for it, I loved it.
June 5, 2025
good but frustrating
Chani will always be one of my favorites, but it’s so frustrating when the story is so obvious. Without even knowing anything about Aodhan, she went out of her way to make it obvious who Mercy was and what was happening with the both of them and what they were doing. It made reading from Calix’s POV frustrating because an agent that’s going to retire at 26 and a notably good detective that only has to do one more case can’t connect a single dot after hearing about and witnessing the same events over and over? Not even question it? Weak.
Chani will always be one of my favorites, but it’s so frustrating when the story is so obvious. Without even knowing anything about Aodhan, she went out of her way to make it obvious who Mercy was and what was happening with the both of them and what they were doing. It made reading from Calix’s POV frustrating because an agent that’s going to retire at 26 and a notably good detective that only has to do one more case can’t connect a single dot after hearing about and witnessing the same events over and over? Not even question it? Weak.
Did not finish
December 28, 2025Author uses cover artist who clearly states all over their shop/website that they use AI.
June 29, 2025
First and foremost, read and heed the trigger warnings, this book is dark with a capital D. The author makes no bones or apologies about it. Nor should she. The black behavior portrayed by characters within the story are alluded to in no uncertain terms. If morally pitch-black characters, don't read this book.
However, if dark "romance-ish" stories are for you, you can't do any better than The Devil's Embrace. Calix Valimir is a detective returning to his home planet to solve a series of murders. He is not welcomed by the majority due to an event in his past. He wants to solve the case and then retire anywhere but his home planet. In the course of his investigation, he meets Dr. Aodhan Solace, a popular figure in the community who befriends Calix and a physical relationship, is begun. The Dr helps Calix come to terms with his sexual kinks and reconcile that he is not a freak because of what he enjoys. As time goes on, the Dr becomes more involved in the case itself, as does the director of the hospital, Titus Mercy. Titus is linked to Calix's past and makes him increasingly uncomfortable as insights that Calix suppresses are brought to light.
The author does a wonderful job of misdirection and creating a sense of unease and danger around Aodhan and Titus. Calix is forced to face his past, his confusion and self-loathing around his sexual predilection, and his ambivalent view of being a detective. Watching his progression and acceptance of his sexuality is fascinating and well written by the author,
The case itself is a bit apparent, but that is not the main point of the book. The relationship between the three men is what matters, and as facades fall, the true story is revealed. This is a fast read, and the 2nd book, The Devil's Mercy, releasing June 30th, appears to take the darkness to a whole new level. Masks come off, and the violence and kink go further than before. And I am there for it.
This type of kink is not my thing, but the writing and the surrounding plot make any potential uncomfortableness go away. I think it's because we see things from Calix's view as he is brought further into the darkness and must decide where his limits might be.
If you like the darkest of plot and characters but demand they be written well and organic in their development, read this series!
However, if dark "romance-ish" stories are for you, you can't do any better than The Devil's Embrace. Calix Valimir is a detective returning to his home planet to solve a series of murders. He is not welcomed by the majority due to an event in his past. He wants to solve the case and then retire anywhere but his home planet. In the course of his investigation, he meets Dr. Aodhan Solace, a popular figure in the community who befriends Calix and a physical relationship, is begun. The Dr helps Calix come to terms with his sexual kinks and reconcile that he is not a freak because of what he enjoys. As time goes on, the Dr becomes more involved in the case itself, as does the director of the hospital, Titus Mercy. Titus is linked to Calix's past and makes him increasingly uncomfortable as insights that Calix suppresses are brought to light.
The author does a wonderful job of misdirection and creating a sense of unease and danger around Aodhan and Titus. Calix is forced to face his past, his confusion and self-loathing around his sexual predilection, and his ambivalent view of being a detective. Watching his progression and acceptance of his sexuality is fascinating and well written by the author,
The case itself is a bit apparent, but that is not the main point of the book. The relationship between the three men is what matters, and as facades fall, the true story is revealed. This is a fast read, and the 2nd book, The Devil's Mercy, releasing June 30th, appears to take the darkness to a whole new level. Masks come off, and the violence and kink go further than before. And I am there for it.
This type of kink is not my thing, but the writing and the surrounding plot make any potential uncomfortableness go away. I think it's because we see things from Calix's view as he is brought further into the darkness and must decide where his limits might be.
If you like the darkest of plot and characters but demand they be written well and organic in their development, read this series!
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