DEVOURANCE

by Jacquelyn Marquez, Sydney Langley (Illustrator)

A bruja bloodline. A vampire's curse. A power no one ever saw coming.
After her husband vanishes without a trace, Searra is left to raise their toddler, Jade, alone. Grief lingers at the edges of every day, and she survives by clinging to routine.
Everything changes when a stranger with impossible emerald eyes breaks into her house, every instinct screams danger. Yet something about him pulls at her—familiar and otherworldly. A beautiful predator.
Searra thought losing her husband would be the hardest thing she'd face, but she was wrong. Apparently, monsters are real, and the truth? Well, the truth just may bite.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Fiction

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 9, 2025

About the author

By day, Jacquelyn "Jackie" Marquez is a passionate vegan baker and the owner of Chaqueta Cakes LLC. By night, she’s the architect of bloodlines and forbidden desires. With a BA in Creative Writing from CSULB and a soul raised on Buffy, Charmed and Dean Koontz, Jackie has always been drawn to the supernatural.

Her debut romantasy, Devourance, reflects her love for fierce heroines and the monsters who claim them. When she isn't kneading dough or chasing her daughter, Jackie is likely dreaming up new ways to blend her bruja heritage with the dark allure of vampire lore. She lives in Southern California with her husband and family, likely with a cup of coffee in hand and a paranormal thriller on her nightstand.

Reviews

[Lena Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready for an amazing 5 star read by a fantastic #Latina author. I got the opportunity to arc this book which is going to grab you by the throat, no pun intended and not let go of its grip.

We have witches, brujas, vampires, strong single mother and daughter relationship, Hispanic folklore, spice, spells and a lost husband. Talk about an exciting premise for a book and boy does it ever deliver.

There are some words that are in Spanish that are translated into English. I'm a Latina so it's thrilling to be able to read and review a book by a Latina author.

She adds that firey spice into the raw emotions so you really care for the characters and story. You can see everything in your minds eye so well as she has developed each scene. I screamed, yelled, talked while i was reading hoping they would hear me, lol. i was talking in English and Spanish. You will not be able this book down. I sure couldn't.

I can't wait to see what happens next. You're in for such a treat with this novel. So hurry up and pick up your copy now.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book!
Fans of A Discovery of Witches and Twilight are absolutely going to enjoy this—it’s atmospheric, emotional, and beautifully written from start to finish.

Our FMC is a total badass single mom, and her relationship with her daughter completely melted my heart.

The spice—top tier!!🔥🌶️

The writing is striking and poetic with descriptions that pull you right into the world. The love triangle had me absolutely conflicted (and on the verge of tears).
I couldn’t pick to save my life.
Can they all be happy together? 🤣

Obsessed with the fated mates trope. Packed with Mexican folklore woven throughout, and gripped by the mystery surrounding her missing husband.

Overall, utterly addictive!

Loved, loved, loved the supernatural aspect!

This book had everything I love about paranormal romance with a heroine you can truly root for. Even gave me a touch of nostalgia and completely reminded me of my early love for series like Twilight and Vampire Academy.

I can’t wait for the sequel!!!

Tropes I loved:
🧛🏻‍♂️ Insta love
♥️ Fated mates
🐺 FMC is a single mom in her 30s
🧛🏻‍♂️ Missing husband
♥️ Love triangle
🐺 Found family & folklore

[Katelyn M ChaosBookReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devourance absolutely devoured me.

This story is gritty, atmospheric, and soaked in emotion. Searra is a fierce, flawed single mother navigating grief, danger, and a supernatural world she never asked to be part of. Her relationship with her daughter is the heartbeat of this book, grounding the darkness with love and ferocity.

The blend of brujas, vampires, Mexican folklore, and hidden magic is rich and immersive, layered with trauma, loss, and destiny. The romance is intense and complicated, with a love triangle that genuinely hurts (in the best way), and the spice hits without overpowering the story.

Jacquelyn Marquez’s writing is raw and poetic, balancing violence and tenderness, chaos and heart. Every fight, every emotional beat, every revelation feels earned. By the end, I was obsessed, emotionally wrecked, and desperate for more. (Good thing a book two is coming!)

If you love supernatural romances with strong single-mom heroines, found family, vampires, etc, then Devourance needs to be on your TBR immediately.

[MrsLC. · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Devourance is gritty, raw, fast-paced, and full of heart. It’s like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and her bestie Twilight met up with The Last of Us at a backyard barbecue and got jumped by True Blood. You’ve got claws, trauma, found family, daylight magic, and a whole lot of soul buried under bloodstains. In other words… I’m hooked.

Searra is a fierce, flawed, beautifully human lead. She’s a single mom who’s messy, impulsive, strong, and a little broken — which makes her feel real in the best possible way. Her anger, her instincts, her fight to survive — every bit of it feels earned.

Jacquelyn Marquez doesn’t shy away from emotion or edge! Her writing hits that perfect balance between chaos and heart, blending darkness with light and leaving you rooting for redemption even in the bloodiest of scenes. The fight scenes crackle with intensity — raw, vivid, and choreographed with emotional precision. Every punch, claw swipe, and desperate breath means something.

This is urban fantasy romance done right — full of grit, heart, and danger. You’ll find found family, insta-love sparks, a tangled love triangle, hidden powers, and that sense of destiny humming beneath the chaos and so much more!!

If you crave supernatural worlds with teeth, characters who fight hard and love harder, and stories that make you believe in second chances — Devourance is your next obsession.
🔥🔥🔥🧛🏻‍♂️🐺 ✨🩸🌙 🔥🔥🔥

• 5⭐️
• 3-3.5🌶️ = Open Door Love Scenes
• East L.A. Gothic Fantasy Romance
• Vampire x Human
• Love Triangle
• He Falls First / Insta-Love
• Fated Mates
• Reluctant Villain
• Found Family
• Monsters
• Missing Husband
• Discovered Powers
• Supernatural Hierarchy / Hidden world
• Reluctant Allies
• Dark vs. Day Light Magic
• Trauma Recovery / Redemption Arc
• Found Strength Through Loss
• Sacrifice For Love
• FMC = Single Mom
• FMC = in her 30s
• Mexican Folklore
• Forbidden Love
• He’d 💀For Her

[Ronald Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

could not stop reading very intense world it pulls you into

[Jessica_208 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised and can't wait for the 2nd book!!
Vampires, great story...cliffhanger leaving you wanting answers!!!

[John M · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Dark, Soul-Stirring Masterpiece!

If you are looking for an urban fantasy that will rip your heart out and leave you begging for more, DEVOURANCE is an absolute must-read. It’s rare to find a story that balances high-octane paranormal stakes with such raw, grounded emotion, but this book pulls it off flawlessly.

The atmosphere is incredible. Set against the vibrant, gritty backdrop of East LA, the story weaves in rich Mexican-American folklore and bruja history in a way that feels both fresh and deeply authentic. It’s not just a "vampire and werewolf" story; it’s a soulful exploration of grief, destiny, and the lengths we go to for the people we love.

The protagonist, Searra, is a standout. Watching her navigate the crushing weight of her husband's disappearance while being thrust into a world of monsters and fated magic is both gut-wrenching and empowering. The romantic tension is electric, and that soul-binding dynamic kept me turning pages well into the night.

And that ending? The cliffhanger is brutal in the best way possible. I was not prepared for the emotional stakes or the sheer selflessness of that final sacrifice. It’s a total roller coaster that makes you want to go back to page one and read it all over again just to see what clues you missed.

Dark, moody, and deeply romantic—DEVOURANCE is a stunning debut. I’m already counting down the days until ANGELOUS is released!

Recommended for: Fans of The Vampire Diaries and Supernatural who want a darker, more culturally rich twist on the genre.

[Itzamary · Rating 5 out of 5]

🦇🫦🖤

This book is for those who love The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, Twilight, maybe A Discovery of Witches, Mayfair Witches, Witches of East End that kind of vibe.

You should know that although it does have romance, tension and spice, it didn’t feel like the main focus. So don’t expect a big paranormal love story. For me, what I loved most was how interesting and intriguing it was to explore this world. What really caught my attention is that it’s not like other paranormal books I think this is where the Mexican folklore comes in. I loved seeing things like the chupacabras incorporated. I also loved that it uses Spanish words but gives you their definitions in English.

Even though the story hooked me, since it’s the first book and focuses more on building and introducing the world and its magic, it felt a bit slow or rather, like it had a lot of information. But by the end, everything starts to make more sense and you can see where it’s all going.

And let me tell you, near the end it hits you with all the emotions you get mad, surprised, heartbroken, happy… everything. And it ends on a cliffhanger like, oh my God… where is book two?!

It was truly such an amazing experience reading this book and these characters. If your vibe is gothic, this book is definitely for you.

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to your vampire era! 🩸

Devourance is a vampire romance steeped in Mexican lore. Visually descriptive with a fast paced plot and some excellently crafted spice, this story had me turning pages to see what would happen next.

Some of my favourite things about this book:
▪️FMC in her 30's who is also a mother
▪️well placed popculture references
▪️Mexican lore and Spanish word usage
▪️tension and suspense woven into the plot
▪️plenty of supernatural creatures

I did have some significant issues with the editing and found the repeated translations of frequently used words frustrating at times but they didn't prevent me from overall enjoying the story.

The ending had me stunned and I am looking forward to what comes next in this story!

[Alma Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been wanting to read a book with similar vibes from the 2000s supernatural shows and this book did not disappoint! It also has some Mexican folklore mixed in which I love ! The FMC isn’t your typical 20 year old that we are used to reading about. This FMC is a single mom in her 30s trying to get through life and struggles with grief and depression. Then she meets Juan 😍 this man comes in and turns her world around and let me tell you! The way he makes his appearance and what happens after had me blushing 🤭. Such a good book and I’m obsessed!! 🤩

[Marina Laurendi · Rating 5 out of 5]

TVD fans—do not sleep on this!!

If you were a Twilight, TVD, or Teen Wolf fan, you MUST sink your teeth into this story next. There is so much to love about this book. Searra, the FMC is a mom in her 30’s, raising her baby girl after her husband mysteriously disappears. There are love triangles, fated mates, witch shifters, hot vampires, emotional stakes, and a unique magic system steeped in rich culture. This book felt nostalgic of all my favorite paranormal books and series with a fresh and nuanced spin. So excited to see where this series takes us.

[gena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely pulled me in from the first page. This was the first book featuring Mexican-American folklore and Spanish that I’ve read, and I was pleasantly surprised by just how much I enjoyed it. The cultural elements, bruja history, and supernatural world made the story feel fresh and unique.

Searra is such a badass FMC, and I loved watching her navigate the mystery surrounding her missing husband while protecting the people she loves. Her relationship with her daughter completely melted my heart. 🥹❤️

The fated mates, supernatural tension, love triangle. I genuinely couldn’t decide who I wanted her with!

And THAT ENDING?! 😳 I was absolutely not prepared for that cliffhanger. Now I desperately need the sequel!

Dark, emotional, addictive, and packed with paranormal romance goodness, DEVOURANCE gave me a little nostalgia for my early Twilight and Vampire Academy days while still bringing something completely fresh to the genre.

I loved this one and cannot wait to get started on Book 2 Angelous.

[Rebecca DiPasquale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two years after her husband’s mysterious disappearance, Searra is still struggling to adjust to life as a single mom to her toddler. Then a chilling home invasion turns her life upside down once again.

Juan claims he’s been sent to protect her, but his methods of ensuring her safety are questionable and irreparably life-altering. While she is undeniably attracted to him, Searra is also disoriented by his actions, and unsure whether she can really trust him.
As more truths are revealed, Searra must face more heartbreak and lies, her own ancestral secrets, and a love triangle that takes her completely by surprise.

Marquez’s writing is evocative and atmospheric, bringing spooky gothic vibes one moment, and heart-pounding action the next. All in a contemporary L.A. setting that’s infused with Mexican lore. She has a real talent for subdued horror elements like creeping dread and suspense, but also doesn’t shy away from gore and the grotesque. Who knew that something as simple as a white noise machine heard through a baby monitor could bring simultaneous comfort and unease?

Searra’s interior monologue is peppered throughout, adding levity and relatability while also lending insight into her confused and disoriented mental state following the events that bring Juan into her life. And as for Juan, as soon as Searra describes his voice as sounding like Antonio Banderas, I was sold.

This book was a spicy thrill-ride with a unique cultural twist. I enjoyed having footnoted translations of the Spanish-language dialogue. Before reading this book, for instance, I did not know that “chupate un pedo” means “suck a fart”, but it has now become a staple in my vocabulary.

I would have loved more clarity around the rules of the supernatural elements, to see more of the villains, and to feel more push/pull from the love triangle, but the momentum and the vibes superseded those concerns. All the more reason to anticipate book 2 in the series!

[Dorothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, I need to talk about this hidden gem.

I genuinely did not expect to have this much fun with this book.

You know when a book gives you the same feeling as discovering a new supernatural show that you immediately need to binge? That was this book for me.

Vampires, magic, mystery, family secrets, chaos and somehow I was completely hooked.

The Mexican lore was one of my favourite parts. It was woven into the story so beautifully and naturally, adding another layer without ever feeling like you needed to already know the mythology. Everything was explained so well that I could just fall into the story and enjoy it.

The vibes of this book are Buffy meets True Blood while hanging out with Jacob’s pack from Twilight.

I kept thinking this could have been a Buffy episode, and honestly adult Faith would have absolutely thrived here.

There’s magic, monsters, banter, secrets and characters I quickly found myself invested in. I laughed, I cheered, I got completely sucked in and then suddenly I was sitting there thinking I need book two.

Thankfully, I’ll be getting an early look because I’m an ARC reader for book two. Yes, I have found myself a new obsession.

This is one of those hidden gems I want to tell everyone about before everyone else discovers it. Because when they do, I want to be able to say, “Oh, I’ve been telling you about this one.”

If you love supernatural stories with a little bit of everything, you’re going to want this one on your TBR.

Now tell me who else is ready to get sucked into this world with me?

[Josie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Jacquelyn Marquez and I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

If you enjoyed Buffy the Vampire Slayer or stories about vampires, wolf-shifters
and witches then you will enjoy this book.

I’m not usually into love triangles but have really enjoyed this one and devoured the book in 2 days.

There is a lot of tension in this book because Diego (Wolf MMC) still loves his wife, but Juan (Vampire MMC) sees her as his soulmate and poor Searra (FMC) is stuck between in the middle them but has her daughter to consider.

I feel for Diego as he thought by disappearing it would be better for his family, but he underestimated Searra’s strength, loving and understanding.
I really enjoyed Juan’s character and while he’s not always forthcoming with information, and doesn’t like Diego and his family, he would do anything to protect Searra and her loved ones. It does make me want a Juan of my own.

There are parts in the book were you go oh boy that’s not going to go down well, other parts that make you giddy and the cliff-hanger ending had me shedding a few tears.

Definitely give it a read

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BETTER THAN A MYSTIC FALLS FEVER DREAM.

​If you’re like me and your personality was basically forged in the fires of Buffy and The Vampire Diaries, but you’ve been searching for an adult version that actually delivers, DEVOURANCE will be your new personality.

​Jacquelyn Marquez isn’t here to play. Most authors make you suffer through 200 pages of "longing glances" before anything happens. Not here. The tension in this book is a wire-tight string that snaps by Chapter 8, and let me tell you—the spice is exquisite. 🥵

​The Quick Specs:
​The Pace: Lightning fast. No filler, just high-stakes urban fantasy and magnetic chemistry.
​The "It" Factor: It captures that "Chosen One" grit of Buffy but swaps the PG-rating for something much more mature and visceral.
The culture: such a unique take on vampires vs werewolves and I just loved the use of Spanish!
​Final Verdict: This isn't just a book; it’s an adrenaline shot. It’s dark, it’s sexy, and it's heartbreaking.

​Read this if you like: Fast-burn romance, brooding vampires, and heroines who actually have a backbone.

[Natalie Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devourance by @jacquelynmarquezbooks gVe me nostalgic paranormal romance in the absolute best way possible: witches, vampires, fate, grief, obsession, and enough tension to make anyone sit on the edge of their seat! I cannot wait for part to this fall!😍👏

Searra was such a strong FMC without feeling “perfect,” and her relationship with her daughter genuinely melted my heart!❤️ The supernatural elements were dark and addictive, but the emotional side of the story is what really hooked me. I also truly loved that she was in her thirties!!!

The folklore woven throughout made the world feel rich and different, and the writing had that atmospheric “just one more chapter” quality where suddenly I had read the entire book in one sitting which I rarely do as a working Mama!😍

If Twilight, A Discovery of Witches, Buffy, and True Blood had a moodier, emotionally damaged little cousin with spice and bruja magic… it would probably be this book. Absolutely devoured it!

[Sirena · Rating 5 out of 5]

6/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Mature Buffy-Meets-Twilight Romance I Needed!

If you miss the intense, dark romance of Twilight and the badass, high-stakes energy of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, DEVOURANCE is an absolute must-read.

Jacquelyn Marquez perfectly captures that nostalgic, early-2000s supernatural angst but elevates it with a mature, grounded protagonist who handles family life alongside dark gothic chaos. The chemistry is completely electric, the world-building is rich with Mexican folklore, and the tension is intoxicating.

It’s moody, passionate, and beautifully written. I devoured it in one sitting and am officially obsessed. If you want a paranormal romance that feels both nostalgic and totally fresh, pick this up immediately!

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW. okay i dove into this book head first and it completely stole my attention. i am always down to read anything with vampires, wolves and witches, especially when you can tell there’s a unique perspective to these mythical beings we already know. mexican folklore being woven into this story was fascinating, and i loved being able to learn more about it all!

some parts here and there felt a little rushed, especially learning Juan and Searra were mates, but i always love a good mate trope!!

the ending was a cliffhanger i definitely saw coming (not in a bad way) and i am so glad i have the sequel to read and review! cannot wait to jump in!


thank you to after midnightPR and the author <3

[Mykeah · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

this book is just fun! Everyone has been comparing it to vampire diaries and I totally see why. It has that same vibe, and I think that’s why I enjoyed it so much!

searra is great - I love that you kind of just rolled with things. For some reason, I feel like that’s how I would be if the same thing happened to me. Like vampires, sure. Werewolves, of course. Witches, duh. She just kind of took all of it in stride.

Now let’s talk about Juan. I love Juan. I wish we’d gotten a little more of him being really bad. But man, he is hot! The chemistry between the two of them was really hot.

if you want something fast paced, in a modern setting, that is just a good time, this is a great book to get on your list.

[Sarah Reapz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampires, witches and werewolves

I thoroughly enjoyed this book so much it had everything I needed especially with the vibe we were given, vampires, werewolves and witches plus many hidden secrets to uncover.

I enjoyed the whole story from beginning to end though it ended on a cliffhanger and I'm emotionally wrecked from it.

We were given a Buffy the vampire slayer and vampire diaries kind of vibe, bad vampire turned into a hero for the heroine which was beautifully done and even I couldn't hate him.

Looking forward to the next book I need to see what happens next for my poor heart 😭

[Squidnay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up Devourance by Jacquelyn Marques, thinking I’d read a couple of chapters and ended up flying through it because it’s just so much fun. It’s fast-paced, super engaging, and has that “just one more chapter” energy that keeps you hooked way longer than you planned. The characters are chaotic in the best way, the tension keeps things exciting, and the whole ride is just ridiculously entertaining. It's definitely one of those books you pick up for a quick read and accidentally finish in one sitting.

[Desiree]

DNF @36% I tried. I really really did. It took me a month and a half to make it this far. This story is supposed to be based off all of my childhood favorites such as Buffy, Charmed, TVD, with a Mexican folklore twist, however I was soooo bored. 🥱

[Chasity · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow start

This book was a slow start for me. We follow our FMC while she learns about herself while she cares for her young daughter. The cliff hanger pulls me in just enough to want to see where this goes.

[Lila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love the intimate scenes in a vampire romance novel. Juan is guiding Searra on being a vampire. We see acts of familial/parental love and romantic love, but also love. I hope to see more worldbuilding in the next book!

[Lindsay Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable and an easy read! Cannot wait for the next book!

[Leilani R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I desperately need book 2😭😭

[Terra Beard · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read! This book has it all folks! Action, heart, family loyalty, and the love story that makes you feel their love! Love love love this book!

[Suzanne Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was l first sold by the art and the author and the story was absolutely amazing. I even got my mother obsessed. If you're a buffy the vampire slayer meets angel this is the book for you along with the latina culture sprinkled in.

[Spicy Bookish Bae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the vampire book I didn't know I was missing. Im a latina separated from my culture and this book not only delivered all the vampire vibes I love but all made me feel more connected to the latin community. I LOVED the mix of spanish in the writing and the translation throughout the book. I completely connected with Searra and her fierce maternal instincts to protect her child.

I can't wait for book 2!