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The Demon To Your Right
Amara was human long ago. As a child, a chance encounter with a demon sealed her fate to haunt a fear island forever. When her latest victim arrives, she can’t help but feel her humanity stirring deep within her, and a dark envy fed by questions of why she was never saved.
Erin is terrified. Having just survived an accident at sea, and despite washing up on a deserted island with a beautiful woman, night terrors begin to bleed into her waking life. Is this place, and this mystery woman, her salvation? Or will they lead to her demise?
Genre: A Sapphic Horror Paranormal Dark Romance
Erin is terrified. Having just survived an accident at sea, and despite washing up on a deserted island with a beautiful woman, night terrors begin to bleed into her waking life. Is this place, and this mystery woman, her salvation? Or will they lead to her demise?
Genre: A Sapphic Horror Paranormal Dark Romance
265 pages, ebook
Published October 9, 2025
10 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Preston
2 books12 followersKelly Preston is a neurodivergent, disabled, Midwestern, queer person that has determined that since Chronic Pain led them to write, then they are here gay-ing up your life. They write books with the core value of Empathy Building and challenge their readers to think on a deeper level about a character’s experience.
Originally from St. Louis, MO, Kelly now finds themselves in the Bay Area after living in places like: Los Angeles, California; Denver, Colorado and Auckland, New Zealand. They live with their wife, ESA cat babies Lunabutts, Princess Tiny Buttholes and their service dog Lena Margie.
Kelly is a fandom nerd and has many special interests. Don’t mention New Zealand unless you are ready for non stop yapping.
Originally from St. Louis, MO, Kelly now finds themselves in the Bay Area after living in places like: Los Angeles, California; Denver, Colorado and Auckland, New Zealand. They live with their wife, ESA cat babies Lunabutts, Princess Tiny Buttholes and their service dog Lena Margie.
Kelly is a fandom nerd and has many special interests. Don’t mention New Zealand unless you are ready for non stop yapping.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 11, 2025
First of all I would like to thank Kelly for this free ARC and I leave an honest review on my part. Always willing to help out indie and self publishers.
The Demon To Your Right by said author is a sapphic horror romance between a demon and a human castaway. It was a gripping story filled with a lot of suspense, a lot of pain, fear and a love story with even more pain and strain.
In the beginning Amara was very much a human but a series of events and circumstances made her into a demon. The storyline was quite enjoyable. Amara seemed to almost always be in pain whether physically or mentally courtesy of being tortured by her demon master. It makes me wonder if the author is actually projecting their pain into this story..
Erin on the other hand was given a minimum backstory of how she became a castaway. I felt Erin to be quite lovable and adorable whereas Amara was more of a piteous and sorrowful character and sometimes feelings of anger at her poor choices but it's understandable considering she was manipulated.
The flow itself was quite smooth and evenly paced though an occasional slight confusion in how the words are phrased but it doesn't fully disrupt the overall flow of the story.
The romance itself was fraught with a lot of doubt, fear, uncertainty and external manipulation but the pair manages to pull through despite the very difficult obstacles encountered.
The ending is usually the part I quite dislike since most authors make it short and quick like they really can't wait to wrap up the book or have probably run out of ideas. An epilogue would have been nice and preferable at the very least.
Overall I truly did enjoy the book even though there were some parts that were quite painful to read.
I would recommend it if you like a little pain, sadness, horror and tragedy in your love stories. ❤️
The Demon To Your Right by said author is a sapphic horror romance between a demon and a human castaway. It was a gripping story filled with a lot of suspense, a lot of pain, fear and a love story with even more pain and strain.
In the beginning Amara was very much a human but a series of events and circumstances made her into a demon. The storyline was quite enjoyable. Amara seemed to almost always be in pain whether physically or mentally courtesy of being tortured by her demon master. It makes me wonder if the author is actually projecting their pain into this story..
Erin on the other hand was given a minimum backstory of how she became a castaway. I felt Erin to be quite lovable and adorable whereas Amara was more of a piteous and sorrowful character and sometimes feelings of anger at her poor choices but it's understandable considering she was manipulated.
The flow itself was quite smooth and evenly paced though an occasional slight confusion in how the words are phrased but it doesn't fully disrupt the overall flow of the story.
The romance itself was fraught with a lot of doubt, fear, uncertainty and external manipulation but the pair manages to pull through despite the very difficult obstacles encountered.
The ending is usually the part I quite dislike since most authors make it short and quick like they really can't wait to wrap up the book or have probably run out of ideas. An epilogue would have been nice and preferable at the very least.
Overall I truly did enjoy the book even though there were some parts that were quite painful to read.
I would recommend it if you like a little pain, sadness, horror and tragedy in your love stories. ❤️
October 12, 2025
I very much enjoyed this book. It was about a demon named Amara and a human named Erin.
This story did a wonderful job giving details to why Amara is the way she is. She seemed to have a pretty difficult life, but it was different when Erin was around.
I felt we didn’t get as much back story with Erin. I did like her character and her resilience.
I was lucky to receive this book as an ARC from Kelly and I wanted to leave an honest review for it.
This story did a wonderful job giving details to why Amara is the way she is. She seemed to have a pretty difficult life, but it was different when Erin was around.
I felt we didn’t get as much back story with Erin. I did like her character and her resilience.
I was lucky to receive this book as an ARC from Kelly and I wanted to leave an honest review for it.
December 4, 2025
"I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.” The Demon To Your Right is a sapphic horror-romance that weaves together the eerie bond between a demon and a human castaway. It’s an engrossing narrative laced with suspense, anguish, fear, and a love story pushed to its breaking point.
From the outset, Amara begins as unmistakably human, but a sequence of harrowing circumstances slowly transforms her into something otherworldly. Her journey is both compelling and devastating, she is almost constantly in pain, physically or mentally, often at the hands of her demon master. At times, it even feels as though the author channels their own emotional turmoil into Amara’s suffering, adding a raw edge to the storytelling.
Erin, by contrast, receives only a brief but sufficient backstory to explain her life as a castaway. She comes across as warm and endearing, while Amara embodies a more sorrowful, tragic presence. Occasionally, the reader may feel frustration toward Amara’s choices, yet her manipulation and trauma make her actions heartbreakingly understandable.
The narrative flows smoothly and is generally well paced, with only minor moments of phrasing that may momentarily disrupt clarity but never compromise the overall experience.
The romance at the heart of the story is steeped in doubt, fear, uncertainty, and external pressures but against all odds, the two leads fight their way through the darkness laid before them. Their connection feels hard won, bruised, and achingly human.
By the end, the book leaves you craving more more pain, more healing, more of the haunting world the author has created. A must read for anyone who enjoys their love stories tinged with sadness, horror, tragedy, and the kind of emotional scars that linger long after the final page.💛
From the outset, Amara begins as unmistakably human, but a sequence of harrowing circumstances slowly transforms her into something otherworldly. Her journey is both compelling and devastating, she is almost constantly in pain, physically or mentally, often at the hands of her demon master. At times, it even feels as though the author channels their own emotional turmoil into Amara’s suffering, adding a raw edge to the storytelling.
Erin, by contrast, receives only a brief but sufficient backstory to explain her life as a castaway. She comes across as warm and endearing, while Amara embodies a more sorrowful, tragic presence. Occasionally, the reader may feel frustration toward Amara’s choices, yet her manipulation and trauma make her actions heartbreakingly understandable.
The narrative flows smoothly and is generally well paced, with only minor moments of phrasing that may momentarily disrupt clarity but never compromise the overall experience.
The romance at the heart of the story is steeped in doubt, fear, uncertainty, and external pressures but against all odds, the two leads fight their way through the darkness laid before them. Their connection feels hard won, bruised, and achingly human.
By the end, the book leaves you craving more more pain, more healing, more of the haunting world the author has created. A must read for anyone who enjoys their love stories tinged with sadness, horror, tragedy, and the kind of emotional scars that linger long after the final page.💛
December 27, 2025
Duel 3rd Person POV. 4🌟 1🌶️. 239 pages
Preston’s debut novel The Demon To Your Right is a whirlwind dark horror romance that follows Amara a human forced to become a demon by someone she once thought was a friend. Living out her existence on an isolated island Amara is forced to torture those who wash up on the island’s shore in order to feed the demon who betrayed her.
Then Erin comes along, like everyone else who ends up on the island she is a castaway. But slowly she chips away at Amara’s sky high walls. The stories overall premise is intriguing at its core, it explores, love, trauma, captivity and the overwhelming search for connection.
The only two small issues I had with the book was the pov often shifted mid paragraph and my dyslexic ass would become deeply confused. It would’ve benefitted from a duel pov split across varying chapters. I also would’ve preferred more spice, but that’s down to personal preference, I like my dark romances to be filthy 😅
Overall Preston delivers a compelling story that I would recommend checking out.
Preston’s debut novel The Demon To Your Right is a whirlwind dark horror romance that follows Amara a human forced to become a demon by someone she once thought was a friend. Living out her existence on an isolated island Amara is forced to torture those who wash up on the island’s shore in order to feed the demon who betrayed her.
Then Erin comes along, like everyone else who ends up on the island she is a castaway. But slowly she chips away at Amara’s sky high walls. The stories overall premise is intriguing at its core, it explores, love, trauma, captivity and the overwhelming search for connection.
The only two small issues I had with the book was the pov often shifted mid paragraph and my dyslexic ass would become deeply confused. It would’ve benefitted from a duel pov split across varying chapters. I also would’ve preferred more spice, but that’s down to personal preference, I like my dark romances to be filthy 😅
Overall Preston delivers a compelling story that I would recommend checking out.
October 31, 2025
First and foremost, thank you Kelly for the ARC!
The Demon to Your Right blends the supernatural with deeply emotional storytelling. The story follows Amara, a human turned demon, trying to navigate her new life as a prisoner to her demon master. Along comes a new player, who turns Amara's reality around.
The pacing is of the book is exquisite, the story keeps you interested and hooked throughout, until the very last sentence. The tension, emotional depth, and character development woven through the story keeps you engaged throughout, while the author explores themes of self-discovery, redemption, and personal growth.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a beautiful supernatural, sapphic story.
The Demon to Your Right blends the supernatural with deeply emotional storytelling. The story follows Amara, a human turned demon, trying to navigate her new life as a prisoner to her demon master. Along comes a new player, who turns Amara's reality around.
The pacing is of the book is exquisite, the story keeps you interested and hooked throughout, until the very last sentence. The tension, emotional depth, and character development woven through the story keeps you engaged throughout, while the author explores themes of self-discovery, redemption, and personal growth.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a beautiful supernatural, sapphic story.
October 29, 2025
She was promised to darkness long ago… until a stranger stirred the humanity she thought was lost.🕯️
The Demon to Your Right- by Kelly Preston
🩶Blurb🩶
Amara was human long ago. As a child, a chance encounter with a demon sealed her fate to haunt a fear island forever. When her latest victim arrives, she can't help but feel her humanity stirring deep within her, and a dark envy fed by questions of why she was never saved. Erin is terrified. Having just survived an accident at sea, and despite washing up on a deserted island with a beautiful woman, night terrors begin to bleed into her waking life. Is this place, and this mystery woman, her salvation? Or will they lead to her demise?
🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️
Every legend begins with a curse… and ends when the monster remembers she was once a girl.
Amara, is destined to spend eternity haunting a deserted fear island since an encounter with a demon as a child. When Erin washes up after an accident at sea, Amara can feel her humanity sparking deep inside. Erin, terrified of the night terrors that are haunting her even in her waking life, and the mystery surrounding Amara’s presence, questions whether this is all real, is she safe or will this be her demise.
Amara’s tragic fate and Erin’s terror weave together in a haunting tale of desire, danger, and the fragile pull of humanity. The Demon to Your Right lures you into a world where myth and heartbreak collide, where even the darkest souls ache for something they may never have, and you’ll be spellbound until the very last page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the Author for allowing me to ARC read this masterpiece for you.
The Demon to Your Right- by Kelly Preston
🩶Blurb🩶
Amara was human long ago. As a child, a chance encounter with a demon sealed her fate to haunt a fear island forever. When her latest victim arrives, she can't help but feel her humanity stirring deep within her, and a dark envy fed by questions of why she was never saved. Erin is terrified. Having just survived an accident at sea, and despite washing up on a deserted island with a beautiful woman, night terrors begin to bleed into her waking life. Is this place, and this mystery woman, her salvation? Or will they lead to her demise?
🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️
Every legend begins with a curse… and ends when the monster remembers she was once a girl.
Amara, is destined to spend eternity haunting a deserted fear island since an encounter with a demon as a child. When Erin washes up after an accident at sea, Amara can feel her humanity sparking deep inside. Erin, terrified of the night terrors that are haunting her even in her waking life, and the mystery surrounding Amara’s presence, questions whether this is all real, is she safe or will this be her demise.
Amara’s tragic fate and Erin’s terror weave together in a haunting tale of desire, danger, and the fragile pull of humanity. The Demon to Your Right lures you into a world where myth and heartbreak collide, where even the darkest souls ache for something they may never have, and you’ll be spellbound until the very last page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the Author for allowing me to ARC read this masterpiece for you.
October 29, 2025
I recently finished my ARC of this sapphic horror romance novel by Kelly Preston and wanted to share my thoughts for anyone who might be interested in gay demons!
This story centers around a woman named Amara, who was turned into a demonic creature kept in cycle of torment and agony after being punished by a demon named Derek. Amara rules over a deserted island, only waking when a new victim for her to feed on arrives on her shores. When we meet Amara, her newest victim is a woman named Erin, who starts to show her that there could be a way to break her torment. Erin reminds Amara of her humanity, and fights to find a way for the two of them to escape the clutches of Derek.
I don’t want to share too much about where the plot goes from there, but I enjoyed myself reading this. I’m not usually a big romance reader, so I found some of those scenes to be a bit unnecessary for my reading experience, but I enjoyed them overall. These characters are messy, they hurt each other and push each other’s buttons. I found some of the descriptions to be overdone with referring to them by their hair colors only, but that’s a minor quibble that varies with each reader.
Overall, my favorite parts were describing the cat and mouse game Amara was playing with Erin, before she truly decided to trust her. The description of the boat sinking was so fantastic, too. Thank you again to the author Kelly Preston for this ARC!
4/5 stars
This story centers around a woman named Amara, who was turned into a demonic creature kept in cycle of torment and agony after being punished by a demon named Derek. Amara rules over a deserted island, only waking when a new victim for her to feed on arrives on her shores. When we meet Amara, her newest victim is a woman named Erin, who starts to show her that there could be a way to break her torment. Erin reminds Amara of her humanity, and fights to find a way for the two of them to escape the clutches of Derek.
I don’t want to share too much about where the plot goes from there, but I enjoyed myself reading this. I’m not usually a big romance reader, so I found some of those scenes to be a bit unnecessary for my reading experience, but I enjoyed them overall. These characters are messy, they hurt each other and push each other’s buttons. I found some of the descriptions to be overdone with referring to them by their hair colors only, but that’s a minor quibble that varies with each reader.
Overall, my favorite parts were describing the cat and mouse game Amara was playing with Erin, before she truly decided to trust her. The description of the boat sinking was so fantastic, too. Thank you again to the author Kelly Preston for this ARC!
4/5 stars
October 27, 2025
Okay, so this was an ARC, but legit honest review because the end of this book had me going WHAT DID I JUST READ in the most epic and best ways. I was genuinely surprised I liked it as much as I did. This was my first sapphic book, this was my first horror romance book and honestly I normally read from a different POV. Due to all of that it did take me a while to get into the book.... but man once I did I COULD NOT put it down. Please do yourself a favor and get past Chapter 6 before you made any decisions about it and I swear it will be worth it even if its not your genre. This book had me in a choke hold till the last page. And honestly I would love to see an epilogue that is how much I got invested in these characters.
The Vibes:
Demons
Intense worldbuilding and character development
Tension so much tension
Will they wont they
Questioning what is real or not
THE BANTER OMG THE BANTER IS IT!
My favorite lines "Oh? I'm sorry. I'm just stuck with the most insufferable brat for all eternity." and “How else am I going to find you in every lifetime?”
The Vibes:
Demons
Intense worldbuilding and character development
Tension so much tension
Will they wont they
Questioning what is real or not
THE BANTER OMG THE BANTER IS IT!
My favorite lines "Oh? I'm sorry. I'm just stuck with the most insufferable brat for all eternity." and “How else am I going to find you in every lifetime?”
October 30, 2025
I was instantly intrigued by the premise, I had to find out what happened. Big thanks to Kelly Preston for the ARC. I’m always happy to support indie authors, and this review is my honest opinion.
The Demon To Your Right is a sapphic horror romance between a demon and a human castaway dark, emotional, and filled with pain, fear, and unexpected tenderness. Amara’s transformation from human to demon was both heartbreaking and fascinating, and I really liked the contrast between her tortured complexity and Erin’s quiet strength.
Some parts felt a bit slow or could’ve used tighter editing but I enjoyed the writing style overall and the way the story explored love and suffering in equal measure. It’s tragic, eerie, and beautifully written and an excellent I’d definitely read more from this author!
The Demon To Your Right is a sapphic horror romance between a demon and a human castaway dark, emotional, and filled with pain, fear, and unexpected tenderness. Amara’s transformation from human to demon was both heartbreaking and fascinating, and I really liked the contrast between her tortured complexity and Erin’s quiet strength.
Some parts felt a bit slow or could’ve used tighter editing but I enjoyed the writing style overall and the way the story explored love and suffering in equal measure. It’s tragic, eerie, and beautifully written and an excellent I’d definitely read more from this author!
October 9, 2025
First of all, I loved this book! I have not read many horror romance books so was not sure what to expect but this book was so well written and the story was captivating. This is a sapphic horror romance between a demon named Amara and Erin, a human.
Due to unfortunate circumstances, Amara was turned into a demon and throughout the story we see her battle with physical and mental pain. The story does a great job of explaining why she is the way she is, negative and full of doubt. Amara has not had a lot of good in her life but maybe Erin can change that.
Erins character was a breath of fresh air, even though she is a cast away she remains positive and sees the good in Amara. She is extremely determined and hopeful. She was the sunshine to Amara's rainy day.
I could feel the chemistry between the two main characters as they interacted throughout the story. Their relationship was well paced, given the roles that they play, especially early on in the story (trying not to give too much away! haha). I personally enjoyed the journey of this story, I found myself questioning things and not exactly knowing what was going to happen next, which I LOVED.
I highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys sapphic romances, I know I will be reading the next book that this author puts out!
Thank you to the author, Kelly for providing me with an early copy of this book, I so enjoyed this story and cannot wait to read more from you!
Due to unfortunate circumstances, Amara was turned into a demon and throughout the story we see her battle with physical and mental pain. The story does a great job of explaining why she is the way she is, negative and full of doubt. Amara has not had a lot of good in her life but maybe Erin can change that.
Erins character was a breath of fresh air, even though she is a cast away she remains positive and sees the good in Amara. She is extremely determined and hopeful. She was the sunshine to Amara's rainy day.
I could feel the chemistry between the two main characters as they interacted throughout the story. Their relationship was well paced, given the roles that they play, especially early on in the story (trying not to give too much away! haha). I personally enjoyed the journey of this story, I found myself questioning things and not exactly knowing what was going to happen next, which I LOVED.
I highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys sapphic romances, I know I will be reading the next book that this author puts out!
Thank you to the author, Kelly for providing me with an early copy of this book, I so enjoyed this story and cannot wait to read more from you!
October 10, 2025
Holy wow!
I have been deep into my love of MM because I haven’t found a Sapphic romance that spoke to me, that is until now!
The last chapter had me crying, breaking out in goosebumps and shouting BRUH at the ending - I am going to need more!!
I am usually a fan of dual POV and think this could have been an amazing book for it however I did get on board quickly with the delivery as the world and character building was definitely there.
I love a strong and sassy female lead and loved seeing Amara be able to take small delights in a world that has been cruel and taken so much from her, her pain was felt deeply and I feel as though being a spoonie living with chronic pain much like the author, you can resonate with Amara and her rationalising levels of pain.
I am a lover of Monster smut, so Demon romance was a beautiful change of pace and time not being linear heightened so many more emotions with all the love, loss, frustration and heartbreak.
As a Witch I have deities that resonate with me deeply and my own child being called Lilith - this book will hold a special place in my heart.
I highly recommend preordering @kelpywashere’s The Demon To Your Right if you are after a deeply moving Sapphic romance with the lingering effects of darkness.
I have been deep into my love of MM because I haven’t found a Sapphic romance that spoke to me, that is until now!
The last chapter had me crying, breaking out in goosebumps and shouting BRUH at the ending - I am going to need more!!
I am usually a fan of dual POV and think this could have been an amazing book for it however I did get on board quickly with the delivery as the world and character building was definitely there.
I love a strong and sassy female lead and loved seeing Amara be able to take small delights in a world that has been cruel and taken so much from her, her pain was felt deeply and I feel as though being a spoonie living with chronic pain much like the author, you can resonate with Amara and her rationalising levels of pain.
I am a lover of Monster smut, so Demon romance was a beautiful change of pace and time not being linear heightened so many more emotions with all the love, loss, frustration and heartbreak.
As a Witch I have deities that resonate with me deeply and my own child being called Lilith - this book will hold a special place in my heart.
I highly recommend preordering @kelpywashere’s The Demon To Your Right if you are after a deeply moving Sapphic romance with the lingering effects of darkness.
October 12, 2025
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 2 🌶
At a glance: Sapphic, demonxhuman, forced proximity, power, non linear timeline.
"I want to give you everything, I want to bind my soul to you for all eternity.”
This is actually my first Sapphic romance, and I loved it! Amara and Erin were so cute and absolutely hilarious, even when they were bantering/arguing. The storyline was so good! Without giving too much away, I really liked the premise, and the non linear timeline that led to so much confusion and doubt. It added to the tension haha. On that, I really just wish it was longer! I would have loved to see more history between Derek and Amara before Erin's arrival, and I think it would have been hilarious to see Amara navigate modern things tbh 🤣
And Lillith?? Phewww she was a baddie 🔥🔥 The showdown between her and Derek was absolutely satisfying 😌
Spice: 2 🌶
At a glance: Sapphic, demonxhuman, forced proximity, power, non linear timeline.
"I want to give you everything, I want to bind my soul to you for all eternity.”
This is actually my first Sapphic romance, and I loved it! Amara and Erin were so cute and absolutely hilarious, even when they were bantering/arguing. The storyline was so good! Without giving too much away, I really liked the premise, and the non linear timeline that led to so much confusion and doubt. It added to the tension haha. On that, I really just wish it was longer! I would have loved to see more history between Derek and Amara before Erin's arrival, and I think it would have been hilarious to see Amara navigate modern things tbh 🤣
And Lillith?? Phewww she was a baddie 🔥🔥 The showdown between her and Derek was absolutely satisfying 😌
October 6, 2025
*ARC review*
If you are looking for demons, LGBTQ+ spicy romance, and a surprisingly good analogy for chronic pain conditions, THE DEMON TO YOUR RIGHT is the book for you.
Romance isn't my usual genre, but I did enjoy this really unique turn on the normal redemption through love arc.
Overall, I would recommend picking up this one if you enjoy spicy sapphic monster romance. And if you're just curious about any of those, this is a great intro story.
If you are looking for demons, LGBTQ+ spicy romance, and a surprisingly good analogy for chronic pain conditions, THE DEMON TO YOUR RIGHT is the book for you.
Romance isn't my usual genre, but I did enjoy this really unique turn on the normal redemption through love arc.
Overall, I would recommend picking up this one if you enjoy spicy sapphic monster romance. And if you're just curious about any of those, this is a great intro story.
January 12, 2026
⭐⭐⭐✨ 3.75/5
🏳️🌈Rep: Sapphic, Lesbian FMCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Paranormal, Stranded Together, Cursed Island, Forbidden Romance, Dual Timeline, Against All Odds, Debut Author, Demon x Human
The Demon to Your Right is a sapphic paranormal horror romance that is truly unique and has so many twists and turns it will make your head spin! Even after finishing it I’m still not 100% certain I truly understand everything that went down in this book!
Amara’s backstory was complex and nuanced and my heart ached for her and all she had been through. We get to see bits and pieces of her past and what led to her becoming a demon and getting trapped on a cursed island to do the bidding of Derek the demon. Amara’s life has been filled with heartbreak and trauma - both as a human and in her life as a demon. We don’t get to know a lot about Erin though outside of how she ended up on the island and I wish we had gotten to know more about her life prior to the island and her struggle for survival.
The relationship between Amara and Erin is definitely not all sunshine and rainbows, considering Amara’s whole goal is to make her afraid and she plays tricks and lies about who she really is. But in the midst of her usual games she realizes this person is different from the others and begins to develop a bond with her that makes things even more complicated and well…painful for her.
I loved their banter and interactions - there were some great one liners in there! And there was definitely a connection and spark between them, but it kind of felt more like a trauma-bonding connection than romantic. While I was rooting for them all the way to the end, I wish there had been a little more to get me invested in them as a couple. I guess there’s only so much romance and bonding you can do while trying to survive on a cursed deserted island though lol.
The storyline was completely original and unlike anything I’ve read before and it sucked me in from the start! I do still have a LOT of questions about what exactly happened at the end and wish we had gotten even just one more chapter. It wasn’t a bad ending - there were a lot of wonderful parts to it - but it felt a tad rushed and unfinished compared to other parts of the story. I’m also wondering if the vagueness around parts was intentional. But I can’t help it that I want to know all the things! Lol.
The only thing that really bothered me while reading was the number of times Amara and Erin were referred to as “the blond” or “the brunette” - it got very repetitive and made it hard to stay “in the zone” while reading. It might not bother other people, but it did impact my reading of the story which is why I mention it.
All in all - for a debut novel this was pretty great and I look forward to seeing what else Kelly Preston writes in the future. I’m always down for a good horror story, especially if it’s queer!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
⚠️TW/CW: implied past sexual abuse, miscarriage, drowning, plane crash, violence, physical abuse/torture, manipulation, death, toxic relationship, mind games
🏳️🌈Rep: Sapphic, Lesbian FMCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Paranormal, Stranded Together, Cursed Island, Forbidden Romance, Dual Timeline, Against All Odds, Debut Author, Demon x Human
The Demon to Your Right is a sapphic paranormal horror romance that is truly unique and has so many twists and turns it will make your head spin! Even after finishing it I’m still not 100% certain I truly understand everything that went down in this book!
Amara’s backstory was complex and nuanced and my heart ached for her and all she had been through. We get to see bits and pieces of her past and what led to her becoming a demon and getting trapped on a cursed island to do the bidding of Derek the demon. Amara’s life has been filled with heartbreak and trauma - both as a human and in her life as a demon. We don’t get to know a lot about Erin though outside of how she ended up on the island and I wish we had gotten to know more about her life prior to the island and her struggle for survival.
The relationship between Amara and Erin is definitely not all sunshine and rainbows, considering Amara’s whole goal is to make her afraid and she plays tricks and lies about who she really is. But in the midst of her usual games she realizes this person is different from the others and begins to develop a bond with her that makes things even more complicated and well…painful for her.
I loved their banter and interactions - there were some great one liners in there! And there was definitely a connection and spark between them, but it kind of felt more like a trauma-bonding connection than romantic. While I was rooting for them all the way to the end, I wish there had been a little more to get me invested in them as a couple. I guess there’s only so much romance and bonding you can do while trying to survive on a cursed deserted island though lol.
The storyline was completely original and unlike anything I’ve read before and it sucked me in from the start! I do still have a LOT of questions about what exactly happened at the end and wish we had gotten even just one more chapter. It wasn’t a bad ending - there were a lot of wonderful parts to it - but it felt a tad rushed and unfinished compared to other parts of the story. I’m also wondering if the vagueness around parts was intentional. But I can’t help it that I want to know all the things! Lol.
The only thing that really bothered me while reading was the number of times Amara and Erin were referred to as “the blond” or “the brunette” - it got very repetitive and made it hard to stay “in the zone” while reading. It might not bother other people, but it did impact my reading of the story which is why I mention it.
All in all - for a debut novel this was pretty great and I look forward to seeing what else Kelly Preston writes in the future. I’m always down for a good horror story, especially if it’s queer!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
⚠️TW/CW: implied past sexual abuse, miscarriage, drowning, plane crash, violence, physical abuse/torture, manipulation, death, toxic relationship, mind games
November 10, 2025
Rating 3.5/5
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this novel in exchange for a review. All in all, it was a pleasant light read with some surprising elements.
Story
The story had an interesting concept. A young woman finds herself bound to a demon who's obsessed with her and winds up serving as a sort of ghoul for him. She has some doubts about this role when she comes across a particularly hapless victim. Perhaps it's that I'd just come off of reading romantasy novels, but it was refreshing to see the demon's violent and possessive behaviour being acknowledged as abusive. The execution of Amara's conflict with Derek was engaging and well-paced. The author clearly wasn't afraid of their characters facing real harm, which made for a genuine sense of danger. The romance was a bit more predictable and left some more open-ended questions (how did Erin forgive Amara so easily, what made Amara make an exception for Erin). However, the sapphic representation is very needed, and their interactions felt genuine.
Style
The book's style was sparse, but easy to read. It could have stood another round of edits, perhaps, since the repetitive use of "the blond" and "the brunette" to refer to the main characters was a bit grating.
Worldbuilding
I'm afraid there wasn't much. The island where the first half of the story takes place was described enough, but I couldn't say for sure which country the main characters were living in or really when the story took place. There was some acknowledgement that Amara and Erin, the main characters, had grown up with differing ideas on gender roles and exposure to technology, but I do wish this had been explored more. As this is partially a fantasy novel, I expected more background on how the demons operate and what their hierarchy is like.
Characterisation
The main characters were endearing enough. Erin through her empathy, Amara through her helplessness and pride. The villain was sufficiently detestable. Their motivations are clear and their love for each other is believable, but neither main character is fully explored. What are their insecurities? Where did they hope their lives would go? What is beautiful to them? What does Amara miss about her human life? What did Erin study in college? Some more details could have helped them seem more relatable, but romance readers who prefer a more idealised couple might not mind.
Overall, it was good entertainment and made my bus ride more interesting.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this novel in exchange for a review. All in all, it was a pleasant light read with some surprising elements.
Story
The story had an interesting concept. A young woman finds herself bound to a demon who's obsessed with her and winds up serving as a sort of ghoul for him. She has some doubts about this role when she comes across a particularly hapless victim. Perhaps it's that I'd just come off of reading romantasy novels, but it was refreshing to see the demon's violent and possessive behaviour being acknowledged as abusive. The execution of Amara's conflict with Derek was engaging and well-paced. The author clearly wasn't afraid of their characters facing real harm, which made for a genuine sense of danger. The romance was a bit more predictable and left some more open-ended questions (how did Erin forgive Amara so easily, what made Amara make an exception for Erin). However, the sapphic representation is very needed, and their interactions felt genuine.
Style
The book's style was sparse, but easy to read. It could have stood another round of edits, perhaps, since the repetitive use of "the blond" and "the brunette" to refer to the main characters was a bit grating.
Worldbuilding
I'm afraid there wasn't much. The island where the first half of the story takes place was described enough, but I couldn't say for sure which country the main characters were living in or really when the story took place. There was some acknowledgement that Amara and Erin, the main characters, had grown up with differing ideas on gender roles and exposure to technology, but I do wish this had been explored more. As this is partially a fantasy novel, I expected more background on how the demons operate and what their hierarchy is like.
Characterisation
The main characters were endearing enough. Erin through her empathy, Amara through her helplessness and pride. The villain was sufficiently detestable. Their motivations are clear and their love for each other is believable, but neither main character is fully explored. What are their insecurities? Where did they hope their lives would go? What is beautiful to them? What does Amara miss about her human life? What did Erin study in college? Some more details could have helped them seem more relatable, but romance readers who prefer a more idealised couple might not mind.
Overall, it was good entertainment and made my bus ride more interesting.
October 22, 2025
I had the pleasure of receiving this book in return for my honest review. The story is about a supernatural creature named Amara, a demon named Derek, and a woman named Erin. Derek begins as Amara's childhood playmate, but he eventually evolves into something more sinister and cruel, when he sets out to destroy her life by controlling her destiny. Erin literally stumbles into Amara's world, when she's shipwrecked on the island Derek banished her to. She does all she can to save Amara from Derek's clutches, resulting in the women forming a very strong bond. Together, they work to battle the forces of heartbreak and evil, while navigating the wonders of a possible love connection.
Erin is my favorite character; she doesn't fall for Amara's harsh words or manipulative tactics, instead, she operates from the place of a pure heart, which benefits them both. Amara is beautiful, yet she feels ugly and evil inside, from the effects of Derek's cruel games. however she has a quick wit and a sense of cleverness that aid in her survival. Derek is despicable, crafty, and cruel. He manipulates Amara by appealing to what she loves the most.
The plot is entertaining- we wonder if Amara will be able to withstand the future Derek has laid out for her, or if she can fight him. We also wonder if Erin is too trusting, which could lead to her detriment. The women play an interesting game of cat and mouse, and the reader is left wondering who will win. I enjoyed this story and I was satisfied with the ending. This book is intended for anyone who enjoys supernatural creatures, magic, and of course, a love story.
Erin is my favorite character; she doesn't fall for Amara's harsh words or manipulative tactics, instead, she operates from the place of a pure heart, which benefits them both. Amara is beautiful, yet she feels ugly and evil inside, from the effects of Derek's cruel games. however she has a quick wit and a sense of cleverness that aid in her survival. Derek is despicable, crafty, and cruel. He manipulates Amara by appealing to what she loves the most.
The plot is entertaining- we wonder if Amara will be able to withstand the future Derek has laid out for her, or if she can fight him. We also wonder if Erin is too trusting, which could lead to her detriment. The women play an interesting game of cat and mouse, and the reader is left wondering who will win. I enjoyed this story and I was satisfied with the ending. This book is intended for anyone who enjoys supernatural creatures, magic, and of course, a love story.
October 19, 2025
STARS 3 stars
SPICE low spice - 1 to 2 scenes
CHEMISTRY - good
ANGST - medium
SLOW BURN yes
CLIFFHANGER no
CHARACTERS Erin and Amara
FAVORITE QUOTE/QUOTES
"He wants you to feel broken, Amara. But you are anything but." - Erin
A LITTLE ABOUT THE BOOK/HOW DID IT MAKE ME FEEL
This was my first time reading a romantic horror book, so I was definitely intrigued going in. The story gave me Shutter Island or Inception vibes; that blend of psychological twists and blurred reality really hooked me. I did struggle a bit with the delivery and thought a little polish could’ve made certain parts stronger. Still, the concept was so fascinating that I found myself pulled back in, wanting to know what would happen next. The story itself was captivating.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE CHARACTERS
I really liked how Erin was gentle and caring toward Amara, especially since Amara clearly wasn’t used to being treated that way. I also loved the contrast between how powerful and fearsome Amara was supposed to be and how fragile she actually felt underneath. Erin’s steady love and attention grounded her in such a beautiful, heartbreaking way.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE BOOK
The idea of Amara existing across timelines was such a cool and unique concept. I loved watching how each version of her struggled with the same pull and the tough choices she had to face again and again. It made for a really thought-provoking and emotional story.
SPICE low spice - 1 to 2 scenes
CHEMISTRY - good
ANGST - medium
SLOW BURN yes
CLIFFHANGER no
CHARACTERS Erin and Amara
FAVORITE QUOTE/QUOTES
"He wants you to feel broken, Amara. But you are anything but." - Erin
A LITTLE ABOUT THE BOOK/HOW DID IT MAKE ME FEEL
This was my first time reading a romantic horror book, so I was definitely intrigued going in. The story gave me Shutter Island or Inception vibes; that blend of psychological twists and blurred reality really hooked me. I did struggle a bit with the delivery and thought a little polish could’ve made certain parts stronger. Still, the concept was so fascinating that I found myself pulled back in, wanting to know what would happen next. The story itself was captivating.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE CHARACTERS
I really liked how Erin was gentle and caring toward Amara, especially since Amara clearly wasn’t used to being treated that way. I also loved the contrast between how powerful and fearsome Amara was supposed to be and how fragile she actually felt underneath. Erin’s steady love and attention grounded her in such a beautiful, heartbreaking way.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE BOOK
The idea of Amara existing across timelines was such a cool and unique concept. I loved watching how each version of her struggled with the same pull and the tough choices she had to face again and again. It made for a really thought-provoking and emotional story.
October 29, 2025
Compelling characters propel this tale of love, lust, hurt, and pain and maybe a little redemption while exploring the convergence of humanity with the divine. Nearly broken by a demon, Amara finds love and acceptance through her pain. A sapphic roller coaster ride of demon + human romance that defies time as we know it.
Amara is a very relatable central character caught between humanity and damnation. Relatable regret of showing kindness to someone who turned out to be the absolute wrong person that changed the course of her life. The demon Derek is a seeming manifestation of everything painful and regrettable in life that attempts to control her whereas Erin is relief, the promise of safety, hope, and maybe even love. A beautiful and tragic crossroads of everything out of her own control and the desire to take control and lead her own life.
My only wish is that there was more. The fast paced narrative blows by almost too quickly. There is exactly enough here to care about Amara and her outcome, but I wish there was even more time spent getting to know Erin too, and exploring her mysterious knowledge of Lillith and wards.
I was given the gift of reading this story early by Kelly, a new author I can't wait to read more of.
Amara is a very relatable central character caught between humanity and damnation. Relatable regret of showing kindness to someone who turned out to be the absolute wrong person that changed the course of her life. The demon Derek is a seeming manifestation of everything painful and regrettable in life that attempts to control her whereas Erin is relief, the promise of safety, hope, and maybe even love. A beautiful and tragic crossroads of everything out of her own control and the desire to take control and lead her own life.
My only wish is that there was more. The fast paced narrative blows by almost too quickly. There is exactly enough here to care about Amara and her outcome, but I wish there was even more time spent getting to know Erin too, and exploring her mysterious knowledge of Lillith and wards.
I was given the gift of reading this story early by Kelly, a new author I can't wait to read more of.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2025
ARC Review - Minor spoilers
The book presents an intriguing premise with emotional depth at its core i.e. exploring love, captivity, and the search for connection. The author clearly has a gift for atmosphere and mood, creating moments that feel both intimate and unsettling. However, while the foundation of the story is compelling, the execution sometimes falters in ways that make it hard to fully invest in the characters or their relationships.
Erin and Amara’s relationship, for instance, develops really quickly. While forced proximity attraction can be believable, the book doesn’t quite establish what specifically draws Erin to Amara aside from that. As a result, their connection feels more like a narrative convenience than a naturally unfolding romance. Similarly, Amara’s perception of Erin as uniquely different from others lacks the groundwork that would make this distinction feel earned and emotionally resonant.
Overall, the book has strong emotional intentions and it’s clear the author cares deeply about these characters and their inner lives. But the story would benefit from greater refinement.
The book presents an intriguing premise with emotional depth at its core i.e. exploring love, captivity, and the search for connection. The author clearly has a gift for atmosphere and mood, creating moments that feel both intimate and unsettling. However, while the foundation of the story is compelling, the execution sometimes falters in ways that make it hard to fully invest in the characters or their relationships.
Erin and Amara’s relationship, for instance, develops really quickly. While forced proximity attraction can be believable, the book doesn’t quite establish what specifically draws Erin to Amara aside from that. As a result, their connection feels more like a narrative convenience than a naturally unfolding romance. Similarly, Amara’s perception of Erin as uniquely different from others lacks the groundwork that would make this distinction feel earned and emotionally resonant.
Overall, the book has strong emotional intentions and it’s clear the author cares deeply about these characters and their inner lives. But the story would benefit from greater refinement.
October 14, 2025
At a glance: sapphic, romance, forced proximity, demons, supernatural, third person POV, light spice
Trigger warnings: mentions of child loss/miscarriage, mentions of sexual assault, and mentions of domestic violence
Thank you, Kelly, for allowing me to read this ARC!
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, sapphic, demonxhuman romance novel this is for you!
I will say I had a hard time with the pace at the beginning until I realized that time isn’t linear on the island, and then I really got into it. I’m also not a huge fan of third person POVs but the plot really made it worth it.
That being said, I loved this book! Amara and Erin had amazing chemistry and it really made me root for them the entire book. I loved that you never knew what would happen next and just get thrown into the next crazy thing! Definitely recommend! 🖤
Trigger warnings: mentions of child loss/miscarriage, mentions of sexual assault, and mentions of domestic violence
Thank you, Kelly, for allowing me to read this ARC!
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, sapphic, demonxhuman romance novel this is for you!
I will say I had a hard time with the pace at the beginning until I realized that time isn’t linear on the island, and then I really got into it. I’m also not a huge fan of third person POVs but the plot really made it worth it.
That being said, I loved this book! Amara and Erin had amazing chemistry and it really made me root for them the entire book. I loved that you never knew what would happen next and just get thrown into the next crazy thing! Definitely recommend! 🖤
October 29, 2025
📚ARC Review
The Demon To Your Right
By: Kelly Preston
Thank you Kelly Preston for the ARC!
This book is about a horror romance between a human and a demon.
Amara was human at one point when she first met Derek at a very young age. She cast him away, only for him to re-enter her life years later.
After some unfortunate events, Derek turned her into a demon like him.
Only, he tortured her if she didn't do as he wished.
Amara meets Erin and Derek prompts her to make Erin fear her life. But Amora finds herself quite enjoying the presence of Erin and isn't quite ready to have her as a meal.
Erin starts treating Amora immediately as if she cares for her. This is something Amora isn't used to.
This book includes pain, tragedy and horror with a little spice.
There are twists after twists amd will keep you guessing what's next.
The Demon To Your Right
By: Kelly Preston
Thank you Kelly Preston for the ARC!
This book is about a horror romance between a human and a demon.
Amara was human at one point when she first met Derek at a very young age. She cast him away, only for him to re-enter her life years later.
After some unfortunate events, Derek turned her into a demon like him.
Only, he tortured her if she didn't do as he wished.
Amara meets Erin and Derek prompts her to make Erin fear her life. But Amora finds herself quite enjoying the presence of Erin and isn't quite ready to have her as a meal.
Erin starts treating Amora immediately as if she cares for her. This is something Amora isn't used to.
This book includes pain, tragedy and horror with a little spice.
There are twists after twists amd will keep you guessing what's next.
December 1, 2025
I was lucky to get an ARC copy of this book, but I bought the epub at the lunch sale, actually, because I thought the story truly deserved it.
It's a very original work; the story and the characters are not your boilerplate lesfic romance material, as it is usual for the author, actually.
The first part of the novel, set in the island, is very evocative and full of vivid imagery. Then it changes pace, I think, in the second part bringing the reader in a disjointed reality guessing where the plot is gonna go, which is a plus in my view.
If I had to pick my favorite part, without giving away spoilers, I would say that both the flashbacks that show how the two main characters arrived in the island are very vivid, emotional reads that in themselves make the book worth reading.
But, again, what always gets me about the author, is that - as a reader- I'm always surprised by their stories, not only about the plots, but also led to think. This is not so common, in my experience, with lesfic romances.
I truly enjoyed reading it!
It's a very original work; the story and the characters are not your boilerplate lesfic romance material, as it is usual for the author, actually.
The first part of the novel, set in the island, is very evocative and full of vivid imagery. Then it changes pace, I think, in the second part bringing the reader in a disjointed reality guessing where the plot is gonna go, which is a plus in my view.
If I had to pick my favorite part, without giving away spoilers, I would say that both the flashbacks that show how the two main characters arrived in the island are very vivid, emotional reads that in themselves make the book worth reading.
But, again, what always gets me about the author, is that - as a reader- I'm always surprised by their stories, not only about the plots, but also led to think. This is not so common, in my experience, with lesfic romances.
I truly enjoyed reading it!
October 29, 2025
LGBTQ+ Horror Romance! "Time isn't linear" in this story. Reality itself is questionable at times, and the story keeps the reader on their toes; it's full of twists and turns.
Amara is the most relatable because the storyline centers on her. Erin is endearing, but that could be due to residual feelings of Amara's. The story does well to follow Amara's feelings and thoughts, even the untethered, dark ones.
It flies by very quickly. Sometimes it can feel rushed, so, personally, I would have loved more in-depth exposition. However, the author gives everything needed to grow attached to the story and want more, in the best way.
Amara is the most relatable because the storyline centers on her. Erin is endearing, but that could be due to residual feelings of Amara's. The story does well to follow Amara's feelings and thoughts, even the untethered, dark ones.
It flies by very quickly. Sometimes it can feel rushed, so, personally, I would have loved more in-depth exposition. However, the author gives everything needed to grow attached to the story and want more, in the best way.
November 2, 2025
The Demon to Your Right is a stunning blend of the supernatural and the deeply emotional. It follows Amara, a human turned demon, as she endures life under her master’s control.... until Erin arrives and changes everything.
The pacing is exceptional, the story pulsing with tension and heart. Amara’s pain is portrayed with raw honesty, while Erin’s warmth and unwavering hope bring light to her darkness, truly the sunshine to Amara’s storm.
Their connection is electric, their journey tender yet unpredictable. A captivating sapphic story of love, redemption, and finding light in even the darkest places.
The pacing is exceptional, the story pulsing with tension and heart. Amara’s pain is portrayed with raw honesty, while Erin’s warmth and unwavering hope bring light to her darkness, truly the sunshine to Amara’s storm.
Their connection is electric, their journey tender yet unpredictable. A captivating sapphic story of love, redemption, and finding light in even the darkest places.
November 3, 2025
I want to start off by saying I absolutely love the way the words jump off the page with how descriptive the author writes. I was sent a copy of the book as part of the authors street team however my review remains true and unbiased.Do not hesitate to mark this book as your next read. Just when you think the story is going one way it twists and turns to a new direction in a way that is easy to follow.
November 4, 2025
It can be so hard to find books in the horror romance genre, and it can be hard to find good quality sapphic romance fantasy books, so to find BOTH these here in this book?? I was excited about reading it from the start and it genuinely met--or exceeded--all of my expectations.
I'll be thinking of Amara and Erin for a long time now that I've finished this one, and I already know this one is going to be on my reread list before too long.
I'll be thinking of Amara and Erin for a long time now that I've finished this one, and I already know this one is going to be on my reread list before too long.
October 15, 2025
‼️ARC Review‼️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
Chronic pain rep ✅
sapphic horror/romance✅
demonxhuman✅
Lilith✅
Sign me up‼️
I really enjoyed this one from start to finish, lots of twists and turns. Erin and Amara are the sapphic grumpy/sunshine I didn’t know I needed and can’t wait for more!
#thedemontoyourright #KellyPreston #darkromancebookrecs
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
Chronic pain rep ✅
sapphic horror/romance✅
demonxhuman✅
Lilith✅
Sign me up‼️
I really enjoyed this one from start to finish, lots of twists and turns. Erin and Amara are the sapphic grumpy/sunshine I didn’t know I needed and can’t wait for more!
#thedemontoyourright #KellyPreston #darkromancebookrecs
October 12, 2025
If you’re looking for more tragic backstory and dark undertones in your next romantic novel, look no further than here. Help support indie writers and give this one a shot! It’s definitely worth the read.
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