Emerging Devotion

Love ReVamped #2

by Kalli O'Connor

When your life gets turned upside down, your priorities are forced to shift, can your devotion still emerge?

Tilly’s tired of his long immortal life. He’s lost all hope and desire of ever finding his mate and has instead devoted himself to protecting humanity from the worst of his kind. Though he fears he’s losing grasp of his own sanity and might very well become the evil he fights against.

Elena grew up constantly moving from military base to military base, with a loving family but never permanent roots. She’s embarking on her own life to create the stability and connections she’s always craved. She’s got a great job, co-workers, her pick of men, and perhaps even a genuine friend. But her life’s rocked to its core when she’s forcibly taken along with other vampires.

Seeing the failed experiments going on around her, Elena tries to free herself only to end up in a worse situation. She’s battling her urges to handle everything on her own while also fearing who she can trust. Tilly follows the unending pull and becomes determined to help save Elena, first from the facility and then from himself. Together they discover zombie like vampires from the failed experiments and realize they have far more to worry about than each other.

Can they stop the spread of evil before it takes over the world? Will they be able to trust themselves and their growing connection enough to work together to do so?

This is book 2 of the Love ReVamped series. It’s recommended for overall plot development that they be read in order, however, each book focuses on different couples and can be read standalone. Told in first person, dual point of view. vampires, vampire/zombie like creatures, fated mates, forced proximity, and HEA included.

Due to sexual content, language, and touching on some traumatic events, this book is recommended for readers 18+. A full content note can be found in the book’s front or on the author’s

Genres: Forced Proximity, Romance, Vampires, Dark

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 20, 2025

About the author

Kalli O’Connor is a dark romantasy author.

Her work debuted with Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover (which is a contemporary romance novella) but her future works are dark and more suspenseful and favor anything fantasy related.

She's an avid reader of multiple different genres, and she pulls influences from them all.

Her heart’s passion is to help others feel loved and accepted just how they are. She wants to provide a safe place for readers to discover, express, and welcome different aspects of themselves.

Kalli grew up in the Midwest of USA. Her family has strong influences from Scottish and Irish heritage that not only inspires her life but her writing as well. She travels frequently and pulls inspirations from the cultures and places she visits.

Her works are sure to stir up emotions with passionate encounters, thrilling adventures, and dramatic plots.

When she isn't working, she can be found enjoying concerts, comedians, shows or spending time with her husband and multiple pets. Be sure to follow her website and socials to stay up to date on her latest projects.

To stay up to date on Kalli’s latest works please visit her website. You can join her mailing list, see blog posts, and teasers for upcoming projects.

Reviews

[Selene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was sooo good! I love Christine Feehan and her Carpathian vampires series and this felt so much like that, a slow burn that has you rooting for them the entire time. Love her writing style and the pacing!

[Jennifer Sholtis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book- it’s an easy read with good character development and a great storyline. Keeps you interested throughout and I definitely recommend it.

[Tiffany Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book. I had to force myself to stop each night to get some sleep. I haven’t read many, if any, fated mates stories, but this one has made me interested in finding more.

I will definitely be looking to read the first and third of this interconnected standalone series as well as more by this author.

I’m not usually a quote girly, but I found quite a few notable (to me) ones in this book! Here they are!!!

“But what do I do when all my distractions remind me of her? What do I do when she’s haunting every moment, waking and sleeping?”

“If I were a better man, I’d let her go—save her from the storm brewing on my horizon. But with her head tucked against my chest and her breath feathering my skin, well…even monsters deserve a little peace.”

“In this one moment, she’s become my everything. Everything I never realized I needed. Everything I thought I didn’t deserve.”

“She’s the brightest part of my life, and I’ll follow her for eternity.”

“Tilly completes me in ways I never could’ve imagined. And if he believes I can overcome all these struggles, it gives me a little more faith that I can too.”

“Her sadness, empathy, and simple touch help to simmer some of my flames. She offers support and love, and is helping me to be a better person. She’s everything I’ve always wanted and more.”

[Mariaan Belinfante · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting hefty vampire storyline with a vanamich (vampire but more human) twist. Tilly (Tilhar) is a centuries old vampire protector of humanity, but his demon side is threatening to overpower his humity. Elena is a vanamich not interested in relationships or emotional entanglements. An accidental fleeting meeting leaves the both of them having erotic dreams. When she gets captured, Tilly sets out to rescue her from Zosar's experiment facilities. The reader is kept guessing about Tilly's true abilities in the beginning, a complex character with a borderline satirical sense of humor and a love of puzzles to to curb his boredom after so many centuries. Their attraction is magnetic and intense, but here Tilly was quite an obtuse vampire when it came to mates, but also scared he might harm her. While hunting down Zosor and his experiments gone wrong aka The Cursed, zombie like vampires who Tilley ruthlessly kills while keeping Elena close to him. The mating dance had me on tenderhooks. When he finally had no alternative but to do it, the spice sparked up couple of notches galore. Two strong characters that compliment eash other after all the hurdles. I read this captivating book in under the days and very excited to know there's another on the horizon. My 1st read by Kalli and like her approac.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you Kalli for the opportunity.

[Manoj Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Emerging Devotion and I’m still catching my breath. Kalli O’Connor pulls you into a dark, vampyric world that’s full of tension, emotion, and a slow-burn romance you’ll feel. The characters are layered and real—especially the intense vampire hero who’s both alluring and dangerous. If you crave a paranormal romance with suspense and heart, this one’s a gem.

[melody Colyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book! Tilly and Elena are great. This is a slow burn. Tilly basically goes on a quest and finds so much more than he bargained for. Great plot 💜

[Katie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE IT!!! I am completely obsessed with this series now! I love Tilly and Elena 😭😭😭 I love to see a redemption arc 👀👀

[Carinkla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writer wrote that, even though it's the second part of a series, the books can be read as a stand alone since they each focus on a different couple, and I totally agree. 


I enjoyed this slightly funny urban fantasy tale, although for a vivid reader of this genre the plot twists are slightly predictable. The main characters are, even though not all human, very relatable. In the beginning I had some problems with digesting that it only seemed lust at first sight, but later developments made that kind of plausible. 


The story has violent scenes, but the description fortunately does not go into much detail, so I (as a kind of sensitive soul) did not experience it as too disturbing. Also it is not random, it serves a purpose.


All in all I enjoyed it and was happy to read about this particular couple. This made me curious to know more about what the other love/lust stories this series has to offer

[Enelyae Is Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

HELLO TILLY! I mean after reading Book 1, I was definitely interested to find out more about him! I really like his very unhinged attitude, just my kind of MMC. Definitely make sure you read Book 1 as there is a significant chunk of that book from Tilly’s POV.

I really like Elena, I think she kicks ass! I really liked learning about Tilly’s past and maybe wouldn’t mind a prequel 😉…..Anyway, I highly enjoyed their story, their chemistry and how much Tilly was willing to do to save her. I also like how she never really backed down from him and helped ground him!

I am highly interested to see where the story goes in the next book. It should make it interesting considering who is to be the MMC……Should definitely make for an intriguing read!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Queen Marsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent story.
I loved Tilly from as a side character in Evolving Hope.
Learning about him, his past and knowing what he was up to leading up to him going off on his own to find Elena was amazing.
Elena past is still a little bit of a mystery to me. Her character is strong and take charge. Her willingness to save herself and others is strong.
Make sure to read the first book to get the full experience.
I cannot wait to continue the story with Zos. I will admit his story might be the biggest redemption arc I will ever read.
Thank you Kalli for the ARC. All opinions are my own!

[Emily Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is even better than the first! It has a little something for everyone. Romance, action, and a little gruesomeness. If you’re looking for a good vampire story with a twist, this one is for you.

[Skye DeWet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the book, the way the author built up the chemistry as well as the characters.

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! This was such a great read, I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good writing style. Loves the story and the female main character.

[Melanie Buchanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good fated mates story, and this is absolutely one of my favorites! I could not put this book down. I've been waiting for Tilly's story since the first book and Kalli O'Connor pulled it off spectacularly! I can't wait to read the next one!

[Lisa Guerrero · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is vampire captivating

Characters are great! The suspense of each page will have you wanting to continue to read without putting it down. Looking forward to reading more from this author 😊

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did someone say vampires, suspense and mates?!

Tilly and Elena are exactly the kind of characters you want to read about! Tilly, a strong, morally gray male lead, commands attention with his quiet intensity and internal conflict, while Elena shines as a beautiful, fiercely independent woman who refuses to play by anyone’s rules. Their chemistry leaps off the page, making every interaction crackle with tension and possibility.

What begins as a simple rescue mission soon spirals into something far more personal for Tilly—a discovery that Elena is his mate. It’s a revelation he never expected, and one that turns a mission of duty into a journey of the heart. The unfolding connection between them is deeply compelling, built on slow-burn tension, reluctant vulnerability, and a love neither of them saw coming.

Emerging Devotion is packed with suspense, fast-paced action, and emotional depth. The stakes are high, the romance is intense, and the pacing will keep you reading long past bedtime. It’s one of those rare reads that grabs you from the first chapter and doesn’t let go.

Kalli is a rising star, with a gift for storytelling and immersive descriptions. Her ability to balance plot-driven momentum with character-driven emotion makes her stand out from others.

I cannot wait to see where she takes this series next. I want to know more about the cursed ones and Zosar’s next move. 😍

[Tonika · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me in its grips, the feelings are palpable, well written, with a plot twist that’s adds to the sweet ending.

It was great to get Tilly’s point of view on some of the events that took place in the first book, but there is so much I feel like I’m in a flashback almost. While I was hoping it would pick up where it was left in the first book.

The books almost read as if they were in tandem.

But don’t get me wrong I was so upset we didn’t get to see more of Elena in the first book, so I am happily drinking in her side of events, waiting for till Elena’s part catches up with what I already know about Tilly!

Key points in no particular order:
-demons
-vampires
-kidnapping
-murder
-experiments
-yearning
-dreamscapes
-fated mates
-strong independant FMC
-one bed
-Longing/yearning
-Blood Play
-FMC over 6 feet tall
-HEA

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you looking for a book that blends vampires, fated mates, AND some spicy romance all tied up in one suspenseful story?

Then Emerging Devotion is the book for you!

Kalli O'Connor masterfully weaves elements of the supernatural with some action and intense emotional rollercoasters. The chemistry between the main characters is unmatched and the addition of an "unhinged MMC" who brings just the right amount of unpredictability and danger will keep you up past midnight to finish. All this with the inclusion of some zombie-like creatures and you've got a fresh twist to the typical vampire novels.

This book isn't just a love story- it's a dark, seductive journey where love teeters on the edge of madness. Dark romance, sharp fangs, and some serious spice. What more could you want?!

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m absolutely thrilled to share my thoughts on this book because I loved it! As my first venture into the world of vampire fiction, I was blown away by how brilliantly Kalli crafted this universe. The plot is engaging, with twists and turns that kept me hooked from the beginning. It dives into some dark territory, but in a quite balanced way that didn't make me feel uncomfortable while reading.

I’ll admit, I was hesitant at first since I wasn’t familiar with this genre, but it exceeded all my expectations and completely won me over. It’s one of those books that grabs you immediately and refuses to let go—a true page-turner!

I’m incredibly grateful to have received an ARC and to have discovered this gem of a story. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a suspenseful vampire book!

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emerging Devotion is a paranormal romance, with an unhinged MMC who has lost his attachment to humanity, but he has devoted his life to protecting humans from the mistakes of his kind. This book has Vampire Diaries/mad scientists vibes. Tilly the MMC is tall (and I mean tall, like all 7 + feet of him tall) solid muscle sculptued by the gods beautiful. He becomes attached to our MFC after 1 encounter, and she is all he can think about. Elena our MFC is beautiful, intelligent, kind, caring and knows what she wants when she sees it or him.

This book has all the good stuff: forced proximity, fated mates, spice, and a satisfying HEA

Evolving Hope (Love ReVamped Book 1) sets you up for Emerging Devotion book 2 in the series.

[Sarah Wakeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Must-Read From a Brilliant Storyteller!

This book completely blew me away. From the very first chapter, I was hooked—and I couldn’t put it down until the final page. The emotional depth, unexpected turns, and captivating writing made this an unforgettable read. There’s something truly special about the way this author builds tension and delivers character moments that stick with you long after you’ve finished.

It’s equal parts intense, tender, and raw in all the right ways. You feel every word. A masterclass in storytelling that proves this author is one to watch (and one I’ll be following from now on!).

If you’re looking for your next can’t-stop-thinking-about-it read—this is it.

10/10. Will be recommending to everyone I know.

[Tayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to thank Kalli O Connor for the opportunity to read more of her work. its always an honor.

so In the beginning- we get a feel for who Tilly is, his struggles, his pysche. he doesn't want to be confined within the world. what a way to start right?

Elena's a professional working woman trying to navigate workplace drama through enjoying life's finer pleasures if you catch my drift.

But always thrilling chase forces them together, sparks fly.

Kalli has a way of weaving a story that seems realistic and the world building still contuines in the 2nd book.

Looking forward to the next one.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐
"If you're the fire, I'd gladly be burned."

Tilly and Elena have my heart!!

This is the second book in the Love Revamped series and I absolutely loved it! We do go back to events that happened in the first book but this time from Tilly's perspective. I really enjoyed that because Tilly is such a complex and mysterious character and I love knowing why he is how he is and does what he does. And Elena is such a badass I love her so much! The world and the vampire lore is so good, I can't wait to continue the series! If you love a slow burn, vampire, spicy romance, this is the book for you.

[Sabrina Mordini · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐✦✦✦✦ (DNF @ 40%)

I really wanted to love this, especially after reading Evolving Hope (Book 1), which gave me high expectations for the rest of the series. Unfortunately, Emerging Devotion didn’t quite work for me.

While this second installment is meant to be read after book one, I wasn’t expecting the first 40% to be almost a scene-for-scene retelling of Evolving Hope—this time from a different character’s POV. That structure just didn’t engage me. Since I already knew the plot beats and emotional arcs, I struggled to stay invested and eventually found myself skipping pages. At that point, I decided to DNF.

This might work better for readers who really loved the first book and are eager to revisit those moments from another angle. But for me, I was hoping for more forward momentum in the story.

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tilly & Elena
I was not expecting to love this second book as much as I did the first, but I do! Another wonderful paranormal romance that could not put down. The characters are almost real and the story is original and engaging! Fantastic Story! I Highly Recommend! No Spoilers! No Blurb Repeats!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book!

If you like vampires, zombie like creatures and a little bit of suspense with some added spice then this book is for you! I loved it and can’t wait for next book!!! Thank you Kalli!!

[Day by Day · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second book read from this author, but not my last. Looking forward to reading more books by this author! This was an entertaining read.

[Ashley G · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC reader, and I completed reading it over a week ago. This is usually not something I read, but OMGoodness! This is so good.