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Thisobe
He fell for the human, and she chose him back.
617
Humans were never attractive to me, so her softness shouldn’t be so arresting. Her eyes, too blue for mortals, catch the dim light and throw it back at me. Her hair’s the color of wet earth – dark and soft. I want to touch it just to see if it’s real, to feel whether it’s as warm and alive as it looks. She’s smaller than me, fragile in a way that shouldn’t command space, yet somehow she fills every inch of it.
I don’t have words for beauty. I never needed them until now. But when she looks at me, something burns in my chest. Something that feels like wanting and pain at the same time. I won't let Lilith touch her.
Rae
“Oh, God...” I beg into the open, a low groan leaving my throat. “Please.”
Maybe I am being haunted. The thought doesn't scare me as much as it probably should. It should send me running for a priest or a ghost hunter, but all I feel is a strange, lingering warmth. If this is what a haunting feels like, being touched and cherished with a desperate, unseen intensity… then I don't hate it.
I don't hate it at all.
617
Humans were never attractive to me, so her softness shouldn’t be so arresting. Her eyes, too blue for mortals, catch the dim light and throw it back at me. Her hair’s the color of wet earth – dark and soft. I want to touch it just to see if it’s real, to feel whether it’s as warm and alive as it looks. She’s smaller than me, fragile in a way that shouldn’t command space, yet somehow she fills every inch of it.
I don’t have words for beauty. I never needed them until now. But when she looks at me, something burns in my chest. Something that feels like wanting and pain at the same time. I won't let Lilith touch her.
Rae
“Oh, God...” I beg into the open, a low groan leaving my throat. “Please.”
Maybe I am being haunted. The thought doesn't scare me as much as it probably should. It should send me running for a priest or a ghost hunter, but all I feel is a strange, lingering warmth. If this is what a haunting feels like, being touched and cherished with a desperate, unseen intensity… then I don't hate it.
I don't hate it at all.
408 pages, Paperback
Published December 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 3, 2026
Let me start this by clarifying that Thisobe is not the type of book I would go out of my way to find. In fact, it's far and away out of my wheelhouse and will serve as my introduction to what is arguably the most popular genre on the market right now! What I ended up getting was solid story that, at its best, will keep its target audience more than satisfied with plenty of dark, brooding pretty boys and raunchy sex scenes.
An everygirl named Rae is about to be reunited with her long-lost best friend Clayde at his funeral. Before his death, it's revealed that Clayde left something specifically intended for Rae in the event of his passing. What ensues is a torrent of action set pieces breaking up exhilarating sex scenes. I appreciate that, for a genre known for sex, the sex here is the best part. It's verbose, varied, and (oddly) thematically appropriate given the context; I believe why these two are hooking up. If anything, it's not contrived (at least for the most part. The author has a clear voice in her writing that I find easy to approach--even as a more traditional reader. People are not flopping around like trouts, they are *f**king,* and you can feel the passion these character share in the heat of the moment.
Thisobe sure does love its exposition. There's a surprising amount of depth when it comes to the different demon factions, titles, etc. that can, respectfully, get in its own way. There exist stretches of exposition that I feel don't pay off; for example, there's a lot of attention paid to what I can only refer to as its bestiary, only for the story to focus very little on its variants up until the ending. I wish these sections were rather shown with purpose rather than set dressing for what we're here for. On a lesser note, I feel the story needs a stronger hook; my biggest hang-up has to do with how the beginning chapters play out, as if the author is hiding her true smut chops underneath a serviceable-but-forgettable introduction that plays things too safe, before what I consider to be an effective inciting incident more in line with the strengths of the rest of the story.
Ultimately, I would recommend Thisobe to any Romantasy enthusiast who doesn't mind a little blood mixed with their spice. If you can look past some flaws, this story truly has something to offer--even if you're not the intended readership.
An everygirl named Rae is about to be reunited with her long-lost best friend Clayde at his funeral. Before his death, it's revealed that Clayde left something specifically intended for Rae in the event of his passing. What ensues is a torrent of action set pieces breaking up exhilarating sex scenes. I appreciate that, for a genre known for sex, the sex here is the best part. It's verbose, varied, and (oddly) thematically appropriate given the context; I believe why these two are hooking up. If anything, it's not contrived (at least for the most part. The author has a clear voice in her writing that I find easy to approach--even as a more traditional reader. People are not flopping around like trouts, they are *f**king,* and you can feel the passion these character share in the heat of the moment.
Thisobe sure does love its exposition. There's a surprising amount of depth when it comes to the different demon factions, titles, etc. that can, respectfully, get in its own way. There exist stretches of exposition that I feel don't pay off; for example, there's a lot of attention paid to what I can only refer to as its bestiary, only for the story to focus very little on its variants up until the ending. I wish these sections were rather shown with purpose rather than set dressing for what we're here for. On a lesser note, I feel the story needs a stronger hook; my biggest hang-up has to do with how the beginning chapters play out, as if the author is hiding her true smut chops underneath a serviceable-but-forgettable introduction that plays things too safe, before what I consider to be an effective inciting incident more in line with the strengths of the rest of the story.
Ultimately, I would recommend Thisobe to any Romantasy enthusiast who doesn't mind a little blood mixed with their spice. If you can look past some flaws, this story truly has something to offer--even if you're not the intended readership.
March 9, 2026
"Thisobe" by A. L. Meric is a dark demon romantasy that immediately captivates its readers, drawing them into a world where the lines between love, obsession, and the demonic blur.
As an ARC reader, I can attest that this story is a visceral experience, painting a vivid mental movie for anyone brave enough to delve into its depths. The narrative centers around a determined female protagonist (FMC) who has spent years searching for her lost crush. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself working at her friend Imogen's strip club, only to discover that the object of her affection is dead. However, fate, or perhaps something far more sinister, intervenes in the form of a demon, originally known as 617, who assumes the likeness of her deceased crush. This demon, later known as Clayde, is drawn to the FMC, recognizing her as his "Thisobe"—a play on words signifying a fated connection. This concept is central to the book's unique lore: demons who find their fated human partners begin to experience human emotions, a perceived weakness, while the human counterpart gains immortality and supernatural abilities like blood poisoning, enhanced speed, and strength. The author masterfully crafts a narrative filled with drama, intense passion, and absolute chaos. The FMC's attitude is remarkably relatable, reflecting the complexities and vulnerabilities many readers can identify with. Yet, beneath this relatability lies a profound darkness that permeates the story, making it both alluring and unsettling.
The detailed descriptions and immersive world-building ensure that every scene plays out with cinematic clarity in the reader's mind, making it difficult to put the book down. However, it is crucial to heed the warnings: THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. The dark themes, graphic content, and intense emotional landscape require a discerning reader. The demon's mother, Lilith, plays a significant, antagonistic role, harboring plans for the FMC that even her son is initially unaware of, adding layers of suspense and peril to the unfolding drama. The demon's struggle to protect his Thisobe from his mother's machinations forms a compelling core of the plot.
In my opinion, "Thisobe" is a powerful and engrossing read for those who appreciate dark romance with a strong supernatural twist. It is a story that demands attention, promising an unforgettable journey through its chaotic and passionate world. I eagerly anticipate the next installment from A. L. Meric.
As an ARC reader, I can attest that this story is a visceral experience, painting a vivid mental movie for anyone brave enough to delve into its depths. The narrative centers around a determined female protagonist (FMC) who has spent years searching for her lost crush. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself working at her friend Imogen's strip club, only to discover that the object of her affection is dead. However, fate, or perhaps something far more sinister, intervenes in the form of a demon, originally known as 617, who assumes the likeness of her deceased crush. This demon, later known as Clayde, is drawn to the FMC, recognizing her as his "Thisobe"—a play on words signifying a fated connection. This concept is central to the book's unique lore: demons who find their fated human partners begin to experience human emotions, a perceived weakness, while the human counterpart gains immortality and supernatural abilities like blood poisoning, enhanced speed, and strength. The author masterfully crafts a narrative filled with drama, intense passion, and absolute chaos. The FMC's attitude is remarkably relatable, reflecting the complexities and vulnerabilities many readers can identify with. Yet, beneath this relatability lies a profound darkness that permeates the story, making it both alluring and unsettling.
The detailed descriptions and immersive world-building ensure that every scene plays out with cinematic clarity in the reader's mind, making it difficult to put the book down. However, it is crucial to heed the warnings: THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. The dark themes, graphic content, and intense emotional landscape require a discerning reader. The demon's mother, Lilith, plays a significant, antagonistic role, harboring plans for the FMC that even her son is initially unaware of, adding layers of suspense and peril to the unfolding drama. The demon's struggle to protect his Thisobe from his mother's machinations forms a compelling core of the plot.
In my opinion, "Thisobe" is a powerful and engrossing read for those who appreciate dark romance with a strong supernatural twist. It is a story that demands attention, promising an unforgettable journey through its chaotic and passionate world. I eagerly anticipate the next installment from A. L. Meric.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2026
4.25⭐️ First off, I would like to thank the author, A.L. Meric, for sharing this ARC with me for my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this book! It was non-stop action from the very beginning! It consistently held my attention! My anxiety and adrenaline were running right along with the characters! There were a few things that I didn’t get answers too, like what she did to Alstair when they were training and it how was never discussed nor did it ever happen again. I kept waiting for her to do it again when they were in their dire moments, but nope! This is my first demon/human relationship and I am here for it! It was suuuuuper spicy!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and it was sexy! I also loved the incorporation of her parents and how the supporting characters had just as much of a presence as the MCs. There was love, sex, passion, gore, fear, adrenaline, violence, revenge, all of it! The end definitely set us up for a book two! Can’t wait to read it!
I really enjoyed this book! It was non-stop action from the very beginning! It consistently held my attention! My anxiety and adrenaline were running right along with the characters! There were a few things that I didn’t get answers too, like what she did to Alstair when they were training and it how was never discussed nor did it ever happen again. I kept waiting for her to do it again when they were in their dire moments, but nope! This is my first demon/human relationship and I am here for it! It was suuuuuper spicy!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and it was sexy! I also loved the incorporation of her parents and how the supporting characters had just as much of a presence as the MCs. There was love, sex, passion, gore, fear, adrenaline, violence, revenge, all of it! The end definitely set us up for a book two! Can’t wait to read it!
March 16, 2026
“Her blood is a drug, and I am instantly, hopelessly addicted.”
“I don’t know whether to worship you, or ruin you. And the terrifying part is, I think I’d enjoy either.”
This book is filled with so much action, gore, emotion, found family, demons, and love.
Rae finds herself falling for what she thinks might be a ghost. It turns out he’s a demon who wears her dead childhood friend’s body, after he dies. The dead friend’s name is Clayde, so that’s what Rae starts calling the demon wearing his body.
Clayde, or 617 the demon, is sent to earth by the demon mother to watch Rae, but he feels a strong pull towards Rae and wants to protect her from “mother.”
There were some laugh out loud funny parts in here because the demons who come earth side, aren’t familiar with human sayings/phrases, so they get them wrong at times. The banter between Clayde and Rae and Clayde and Rae’s bestfriend is so good!
There’s a ton of fighting towards the middle and end of the book. Lots of blood, bones breaking and reforming, etc., so don’t forget to check the TW’s.
My favorite part of the book was when Rae said three little words: “dad, I’m scared.”
This little sentence BROKE ME. Once you read it, you’ll understand why!
The demons’ calling birds were a fun addition to the story too! I loved how they went from being standoffish, to calling Rae “sister” in the end.
I loved this one, and can’t wait to see where book two takes them!!
“I don’t know whether to worship you, or ruin you. And the terrifying part is, I think I’d enjoy either.”
This book is filled with so much action, gore, emotion, found family, demons, and love.
Rae finds herself falling for what she thinks might be a ghost. It turns out he’s a demon who wears her dead childhood friend’s body, after he dies. The dead friend’s name is Clayde, so that’s what Rae starts calling the demon wearing his body.
Clayde, or 617 the demon, is sent to earth by the demon mother to watch Rae, but he feels a strong pull towards Rae and wants to protect her from “mother.”
There were some laugh out loud funny parts in here because the demons who come earth side, aren’t familiar with human sayings/phrases, so they get them wrong at times. The banter between Clayde and Rae and Clayde and Rae’s bestfriend is so good!
There’s a ton of fighting towards the middle and end of the book. Lots of blood, bones breaking and reforming, etc., so don’t forget to check the TW’s.
My favorite part of the book was when Rae said three little words: “dad, I’m scared.”
This little sentence BROKE ME. Once you read it, you’ll understand why!
The demons’ calling birds were a fun addition to the story too! I loved how they went from being standoffish, to calling Rae “sister” in the end.
I loved this one, and can’t wait to see where book two takes them!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2026
‼️ PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS‼️
🖤 Demons
🖤 Fated Mates
🖤 Touch her and 💀 Touch him and 💀
“they say the devil’s in the details. But I think he’s right here, between my thighs, begging for more”
Rae finds herself drawn to who she thinks is her childhood friend, only it’s a demon wearing his skin since well he’s supposed to be dead. Her life hasn’t been easy. She’s had it tough which has left her with many traumas, but Clayde with his campfire smell and the way he makes her feel safe has opened her up to new things, like demon dick that can grow bigger🤷🏽♀️
“I don’t know whether to worship you or ruin you. And the terrifying part is, I think I’d enjoy either.”
617 or now known as Clayde is sent on a mission by demon mother to watch Rae, with strict instructions not to interfere. Clayde does the complete opposite, he stalks her, he craves her and he wants her. Clayde is unapologetically himself, and if anyone stands in his way or worse hurts his Thisobe blood and guts will be spilled, maybe even a quickie on top of a still bleeding out body.
“I don’t want to be the anchor that drowns you. I want to be the wind that helps you fly.”
I felt myself liking the middle/ ending a lot better as all the action happened. It’s packed with lots of blood, guts, and bones breaking and popping back in but please once again check trigger warnings. Favourite character has to be Imogen! She’s badass with a smart mouth and a love for those she cares about especially Altair ugh cuuuuute!!
🖤 Demons
🖤 Fated Mates
🖤 Touch her and 💀 Touch him and 💀
“they say the devil’s in the details. But I think he’s right here, between my thighs, begging for more”
Rae finds herself drawn to who she thinks is her childhood friend, only it’s a demon wearing his skin since well he’s supposed to be dead. Her life hasn’t been easy. She’s had it tough which has left her with many traumas, but Clayde with his campfire smell and the way he makes her feel safe has opened her up to new things, like demon dick that can grow bigger🤷🏽♀️
“I don’t know whether to worship you or ruin you. And the terrifying part is, I think I’d enjoy either.”
617 or now known as Clayde is sent on a mission by demon mother to watch Rae, with strict instructions not to interfere. Clayde does the complete opposite, he stalks her, he craves her and he wants her. Clayde is unapologetically himself, and if anyone stands in his way or worse hurts his Thisobe blood and guts will be spilled, maybe even a quickie on top of a still bleeding out body.
“I don’t want to be the anchor that drowns you. I want to be the wind that helps you fly.”
I felt myself liking the middle/ ending a lot better as all the action happened. It’s packed with lots of blood, guts, and bones breaking and popping back in but please once again check trigger warnings. Favourite character has to be Imogen! She’s badass with a smart mouth and a love for those she cares about especially Altair ugh cuuuuute!!
March 12, 2026
I would like to thank the author for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
After the death of a childhood friend, Rae finds herself attending his funeral and saying her final goodbye to him. But when a weird encounter at the funeral leaves her feeling like the shadows are watching her, she doesn’t really know what to think. But then the smell of campfire begins showing up… and suddenly she begins to feel the touch of someone. Someone she can’t see. 617 is, well, not human. But when he sees her, he becomes obsessed – and now he just wants to be able to touch her.
OH. MY. G-O-S-H. THIS WAS PHENOMENAL. I loved the plot. Like, I loved the way things unfolded as Rae began to feel someone there and then meets 617 and then from there it was non-stop action… in more ways than one. The flow of things was quick – so while the book itself was long, I never felt like it dragged. I loved the characters – not just Rae and 617 but also all of the side characters as I felt like every single one of them was important and helped push the plot along. I loved the romance, but what was wonderful here was the spice. Because WOW was this spicy. I honestly am obsessed with this whole book and I look forward to a possible book two (maybe? It seemed that’s where this was headed by the end of it, but we’ll see). 10/10 would recommend.
After the death of a childhood friend, Rae finds herself attending his funeral and saying her final goodbye to him. But when a weird encounter at the funeral leaves her feeling like the shadows are watching her, she doesn’t really know what to think. But then the smell of campfire begins showing up… and suddenly she begins to feel the touch of someone. Someone she can’t see. 617 is, well, not human. But when he sees her, he becomes obsessed – and now he just wants to be able to touch her.
OH. MY. G-O-S-H. THIS WAS PHENOMENAL. I loved the plot. Like, I loved the way things unfolded as Rae began to feel someone there and then meets 617 and then from there it was non-stop action… in more ways than one. The flow of things was quick – so while the book itself was long, I never felt like it dragged. I loved the characters – not just Rae and 617 but also all of the side characters as I felt like every single one of them was important and helped push the plot along. I loved the romance, but what was wonderful here was the spice. Because WOW was this spicy. I honestly am obsessed with this whole book and I look forward to a possible book two (maybe? It seemed that’s where this was headed by the end of it, but we’ll see). 10/10 would recommend.
March 14, 2026
I had the chance to read to an ALC of Thisobe by
A. L. Meric, and it completely pulled me in. The story follows a demon who is supposed to be hunting a girl, but instead finds himself falling for her in a way that turns everything upside down.
The vibe is dark and intense, but it's balanced with an emotional connection that really sticks with you.
The passion between these characters is undeniable and the spicy scenes are done so well.
What surprised me most were the twists. Just when I thought I understood where the story was going, it flipped the script. If you're looking for a book that feels dark, passionate, and a little dangerous, but also gives you that feeling of someone having your back when the world feels lonely, this is absolutely one to pick up.
A. L. Meric, and it completely pulled me in. The story follows a demon who is supposed to be hunting a girl, but instead finds himself falling for her in a way that turns everything upside down.
The vibe is dark and intense, but it's balanced with an emotional connection that really sticks with you.
The passion between these characters is undeniable and the spicy scenes are done so well.
What surprised me most were the twists. Just when I thought I understood where the story was going, it flipped the script. If you're looking for a book that feels dark, passionate, and a little dangerous, but also gives you that feeling of someone having your back when the world feels lonely, this is absolutely one to pick up.
March 7, 2026
This up and coming author will pull you in. This book had me following it along without permission, which I ended up desperately granting. I'm beyond excited for what's next. If you're into dark romance with a different spin than the rest, then here is your new home. Obsessed is such a small word to use here. I'm an avid reader and have been for most of my 50 years and saying this is like nothing I've devoured before is perfect. Once you read about Clayde, you'll want one for yourself unless ya want Rae, no judgment. So sit back relax and feel cause that's all you'll do.
BTW keep the rage pillow, tissues, and something to cover the screams or laughter quiet close by. You'll need it.
BTW keep the rage pillow, tissues, and something to cover the screams or laughter quiet close by. You'll need it.
March 14, 2026
Such a unique storyline, with equally unique characters, and I was hooked! Rae had an awful upbringing, and now bartends at a str¡p club owned by her best friend. She's a fierce and fiesty one, and I love how she had the power to bring the world to its knees, but chooses to use it for good. 617, aka Clayde 2.0, is a bit of a mindless minion, but only on the outside. Internally, he's burning up for his little Thisobe, consequences be damned. Everything in this story had me flipping pages hoping it never ended, while craving answers all the while. I'm so looking forward to the next book!
March 7, 2026
ARC for honest review;
I loved this book so much with all the gore, demons, action, emotions and love and so much more!
The banter was on point, I laughed out loud so many times. The amount of action and gore from mid-end of the book was intense! (Check trigger warnings)
It was fast paced and keeps you intrigued and on your toes the whole time!
I loved this book so much with all the gore, demons, action, emotions and love and so much more!
The banter was on point, I laughed out loud so many times. The amount of action and gore from mid-end of the book was intense! (Check trigger warnings)
It was fast paced and keeps you intrigued and on your toes the whole time!
March 15, 2026
This book is filled with so much action, gore, emotion, found family, demons, and love. Rae who had a horrible childhood survives and falls for what she thinks is a ghost. As the infernis takes shape of an old friend he tries to protect rae from "his mother". The action packed horror and spicey spice in this book is amazing. I fell in love and hope this continues with a sequel.
March 4, 2026
It was an interesting read, This was my first book by this author. It was a very fast-paced story, with almost no time to get our bearings before more demons started chasing us 🤪. I'm going to enjoy continuing this series.
April 9, 2026
this book was absolutely a blast to read. such a fun twist on demons and the whole afterlife theme. it definitely kept me on my toes and had me so nervous many time 🤣 will absolutely be recommending this to friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2026
I have been known on occasion to dabble with Dark Romance books. Dipping my toes in to test the waters. Thisobe had me dive straight in head first and I'm so glad it did.
Once I began reading Thisobe I did not want to put it down. Reading it parked at work before my shift, between assignments. And stealing moments to read around the house. I was hooked from start to finish. I loved the demon, 617, and him doing the unexpected of his position to protect the human, Rae, he was sent/assigned to watch. To see him give into the force that pulled him towards her.
Thisobe has a lot going for it: demons, found family, paranormal/ghosts (or perceived as), gore, violence, action and romance. It has a little of everything that will be sure to satisfy most readers. I saw another comment that mentioned how the transition between scenes/location shifting could be an issue, it didn't bother me. However, I can see where it could be hard to follow/track.
Once I began reading Thisobe I did not want to put it down. Reading it parked at work before my shift, between assignments. And stealing moments to read around the house. I was hooked from start to finish. I loved the demon, 617, and him doing the unexpected of his position to protect the human, Rae, he was sent/assigned to watch. To see him give into the force that pulled him towards her.
Thisobe has a lot going for it: demons, found family, paranormal/ghosts (or perceived as), gore, violence, action and romance. It has a little of everything that will be sure to satisfy most readers. I saw another comment that mentioned how the transition between scenes/location shifting could be an issue, it didn't bother me. However, I can see where it could be hard to follow/track.
March 2, 2026
This was a good story. I was thrown by some of the scene changes, as one will just end and the next one starts but you don't realise until your a few sentences in. This happens consistently throughout but once you get used to that it's OK.
There's alot of blood, gore, torture and spice. Alot of dark themes as it is about demons so check your triggers. The story fast paced and violent. It was an interesting read. Ready to see what's next by this author.
There's alot of blood, gore, torture and spice. Alot of dark themes as it is about demons so check your triggers. The story fast paced and violent. It was an interesting read. Ready to see what's next by this author.
March 13, 2026
Rae had a long time crush on her childhood friend Clayde but soon learns hes no longer alive, but when she spots his likeness in another everything changes. 617 is a demon sent by the mother demon to watch over Rae, but for what purpose? As the mystery and intrigue rise, their steamy chemestry ignites and you'll be hooked with suspense, kept guessing all the way. Well written engaging steamy desires drama action twists and more
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews