What do you think?
Rate this book
Demons of the Rift #1
Awakening the Demon
I fell down a hole and landed in a demon’s garden bed. Literally.
I’m a botanist, not a dimension-hopper. But when the ground swallows me whole, I wake up in a cave with Rylik—a towering, horned demon with claws that could shred me and a…knitting hobby?
He’s not the monster the stories warned me about. He’s a grumpy, touch-starved hermit who weaves blankets, desperately wants to grow a garden in the dark, and looks at me like I’m the sun itself.
I should be terrified. I should be trying to find a way home. Instead, I’m teaching him about irrigation, wearing his shirts, and realizing that his "protective" growls make my knees weak. But we aren't alone in the Demon Realm. The Demon King is watching, and he doesn't like unregistered humans.
Now Rylik has to his safe, solitary life, or the messy, dangerous, undeniable love growing between us.
Awakening the Demon is a cozy, high-heat monster romance
A possessive, cinnamon roll hero who weavesA capable, smart heroineSize difference & praiseForced proximity in a cozy caveNo pregnancy & No third-act breakup!Guaranteed HEA!
I’m a botanist, not a dimension-hopper. But when the ground swallows me whole, I wake up in a cave with Rylik—a towering, horned demon with claws that could shred me and a…knitting hobby?
He’s not the monster the stories warned me about. He’s a grumpy, touch-starved hermit who weaves blankets, desperately wants to grow a garden in the dark, and looks at me like I’m the sun itself.
I should be terrified. I should be trying to find a way home. Instead, I’m teaching him about irrigation, wearing his shirts, and realizing that his "protective" growls make my knees weak. But we aren't alone in the Demon Realm. The Demon King is watching, and he doesn't like unregistered humans.
Now Rylik has to his safe, solitary life, or the messy, dangerous, undeniable love growing between us.
Awakening the Demon is a cozy, high-heat monster romance
A possessive, cinnamon roll hero who weavesA capable, smart heroineSize difference & praiseForced proximity in a cozy caveNo pregnancy & No third-act breakup!Guaranteed HEA!
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 42 reviews
April 17, 2026
Freelance botanist Audrey is on a solo assignment to investigate unsubstantiated claims of a never before seen glowing plant specimen in a remote, difficult to access area. After hiking out to the spot, setting up her camp, and awaiting nightfall, she’s in the midst of a methodical search grid when she spots the barely there luminescence. As she carefully photographs and delicately excises a small specimen, she falls through a massive hole below the plant, and loses consciousness when a giant, blood red winged humanoid creature comes to her rescue.
Demon Rylik has been taught about unintelligent, violent humans as far back in his very long existence as he can recall, yet he’d never encountered one in the demon realm. He’s initially wary of then quickly charmed by the beautiful, small female human who fell through the rift between the human world and that of the demons. He’s startled by her immediate offer of help with his crops, the knowledge and skills she possesses are invaluable to him, not to mention his overwhelming attraction to and desire for her.
The pair slowly grow comfortable in each other’s company as it becomes increasingly apparent that they don’t have a way to return Audrey to the human realm. The development of their relationship is lovely to read, it’s unhurried but doesn’t drag on, and it’s a spicy feast of intimacy and believable connection in an unreal setting between a human and a creature of myth. So many sweet and unexpected touches here: he crafts woven textiles with his bare claws! he’s a foodie, even with the poor selection of sustenance to be had! There is an underlying threat to their HFN by the demon king as well, adding layers to their story.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and Story Origin, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
Demon Rylik has been taught about unintelligent, violent humans as far back in his very long existence as he can recall, yet he’d never encountered one in the demon realm. He’s initially wary of then quickly charmed by the beautiful, small female human who fell through the rift between the human world and that of the demons. He’s startled by her immediate offer of help with his crops, the knowledge and skills she possesses are invaluable to him, not to mention his overwhelming attraction to and desire for her.
The pair slowly grow comfortable in each other’s company as it becomes increasingly apparent that they don’t have a way to return Audrey to the human realm. The development of their relationship is lovely to read, it’s unhurried but doesn’t drag on, and it’s a spicy feast of intimacy and believable connection in an unreal setting between a human and a creature of myth. So many sweet and unexpected touches here: he crafts woven textiles with his bare claws! he’s a foodie, even with the poor selection of sustenance to be had! There is an underlying threat to their HFN by the demon king as well, adding layers to their story.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and Story Origin, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
April 24, 2026
this was the absolute best cozy monster romance. I fell in love with Audrey and Rylik from the second she fell through the ground. he was the absolute cutest and sweetest ever. these two connected in the best way. this was steamy and fun. and I'm so glad i got the opportunity to read it.
April 24, 2026
Really enjoyed this book! The plot was a little slow towards the middle though. The two main characters definitely made up for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book Synopsis - light spoilers
Carnegie Institute Field Guide | Dr. Audrey Torres
Objective: Catalog newly sited bioluminescent species
Entry 1 | Subject first observed by Dr. Torres at dusk with a dim glow, upon digging up specimen what appeared to be a cave network presented itself. Dr. Torres then experienced swift downward momentum as ground gave way.
Entry 2 | Dr. Torres landed in a rudimentary almost barren garden.
Soil conditions: TBD
Weather conditions: cold, barren ,no sun
Species Present:
Gardening beds with root like organisms
One red presenting monster creature. Humanoid. Horn. Tail. Wings.
*** Entries will resume after it has been ascertained that bioluminescent plant is non -hallucinogenic, nor is Dr Torres suffering brain trauma
Entry 3 | Dr. Torres' condition is stable.
Red creature has been identified as Raylik a male demon. He has shared that the new environment is called the Demon Realm – a dimension separate from Earth. Realm suffers from a blight that has withered food sources.
Soil Conditions: lacking irrigation/ hydration. nitrogen levels - low
New Objectives:
Provide Raylik with agricultural technology knowledge
After discussion; begin projects A. Composting via usual methodologies B. Apply small magic… to create an irrigation system.
Entry 4 | The now flourishing garden contains new species for cataloging. A full comprehensive guide will be written. Bountiful crop is thanks to projects A & B and Demon – Human relations ? No scientific precedent has been established, however, after coupling a sun-like object appeared. Repeated experimentation produced a thunderstorm and seasonal change. More testing will need to occur before conclusions are drawn. Crop yield is now sufficient - feeding 2 inhabitants , castle population, and several others
Conclusion: Full study of original bioluminescent species is completed and attached in subsequent pages.
Appendix Notes:
1. The Demon Realm is a preindustrial feudal land.
1.1 Humans are strictly forbidden as local folklore suggests them to be a giant unintelligent monstrous combatant race. Humans discovered are either killed or sold illegally as pets.
1.2 Inhabitants dwell in upscale caves with creature comforts fueled by gravity. Demons appear to have high personal hygiene utilizing limited space for 3 bathing chambers prioritized over multiple sleeping spaces. Dwelling contains only 1 demon sized bed.
2. Demon Biology
2.1 Demon young are born able to walk, fly , and eat whole food on their own. As a result, Demon females, like their male counterparts , are flat chested.
2.2 Prehensile Tails have many applications including those of intimate variety.
2.3 Demon male anatomy while similar to human counterparts is to scale and has a textured spiral pattern
2.4 Demons call their life partners mates and are highly protective & possessive of the individual they have chosen
3. An attempt to return to the human realm was made, however, unsuccessful. Realm passways are sentient and unlikely to allow return.
Carnegie Institute Field Guide | Dr. Audrey Torres
Objective: Catalog newly sited bioluminescent species
Entry 1 | Subject first observed by Dr. Torres at dusk with a dim glow, upon digging up specimen what appeared to be a cave network presented itself. Dr. Torres then experienced swift downward momentum as ground gave way.
Entry 2 | Dr. Torres landed in a rudimentary almost barren garden.
Soil conditions: TBD
Weather conditions: cold, barren ,no sun
Species Present:
Gardening beds with root like organisms
One red presenting monster creature. Humanoid. Horn. Tail. Wings.
*** Entries will resume after it has been ascertained that bioluminescent plant is non -hallucinogenic, nor is Dr Torres suffering brain trauma
Entry 3 | Dr. Torres' condition is stable.
Red creature has been identified as Raylik a male demon. He has shared that the new environment is called the Demon Realm – a dimension separate from Earth. Realm suffers from a blight that has withered food sources.
Soil Conditions: lacking irrigation/ hydration. nitrogen levels - low
New Objectives:
Provide Raylik with agricultural technology knowledge
After discussion; begin projects A. Composting via usual methodologies B. Apply small magic… to create an irrigation system.
Entry 4 | The now flourishing garden contains new species for cataloging. A full comprehensive guide will be written. Bountiful crop is thanks to projects A & B and Demon – Human relations ? No scientific precedent has been established, however, after coupling a sun-like object appeared. Repeated experimentation produced a thunderstorm and seasonal change. More testing will need to occur before conclusions are drawn. Crop yield is now sufficient - feeding 2 inhabitants , castle population, and several others
Conclusion: Full study of original bioluminescent species is completed and attached in subsequent pages.
Appendix Notes:
1. The Demon Realm is a preindustrial feudal land.
1.1 Humans are strictly forbidden as local folklore suggests them to be a giant unintelligent monstrous combatant race. Humans discovered are either killed or sold illegally as pets.
1.2 Inhabitants dwell in upscale caves with creature comforts fueled by gravity. Demons appear to have high personal hygiene utilizing limited space for 3 bathing chambers prioritized over multiple sleeping spaces. Dwelling contains only 1 demon sized bed.
2. Demon Biology
2.1 Demon young are born able to walk, fly , and eat whole food on their own. As a result, Demon females, like their male counterparts , are flat chested.
2.2 Prehensile Tails have many applications including those of intimate variety.
2.3 Demon male anatomy while similar to human counterparts is to scale and has a textured spiral pattern
2.4 Demons call their life partners mates and are highly protective & possessive of the individual they have chosen
3. An attempt to return to the human realm was made, however, unsuccessful. Realm passways are sentient and unlikely to allow return.
April 27, 2026
I'd like to start by thanking the author for an advanced copy of this book to read. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own!
What happens when a human botanist falls through the earth and lands in a demons vegetable garden?? They start a farming movement and get to know the handsome demon who they're cohabiting with!
Rylik was a cinnamon roll who was willing to get his claws out and fight for Audrey's safety. But she also wasn't afraid to jump in, help and do what needed to be done for them both. Their emotional and physical connection was so well done that I completely was invested in their journey. The little moments where she taught him how to garden and he taught her how to weave was such a nice addition to this story. ALSO these two understood communication and how to talk about things, so we didn't need to worry about any miscommunication as they talked everything through and had healthy discussions!
The spice was quite hot, and there was some gorgeous monster anatomy INCLUDING A TAIL PEOPLE!! I love it when tails have many uses 😍
I loved their story and how they both had things that they could teach each other. The only thing I wanted to know more about was the Demon King and how he fully comes into play, but hopefully we get that in the next books! Overall, it was super cosy and the perfect romance to snuggle in with and have a great time.
What you'll find:
🥔 Slow burn romance
🥔 Forced proximity
🥔 Size difference
🥔 NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
🥔 Late 30s FMC
Quotes:
🥔In what backwards, broken society is the ability to nurture and build considered a weakness?
🥔"Histories are written by the victors. Or, at least by those who remain."
🥔 "I would hold back my pleasure, use my tail to play with you, make you come over and over until your body was boneless, until you begged me to come in you."
🥔"I will ruin you." "I don't care." "I care."
What happens when a human botanist falls through the earth and lands in a demons vegetable garden?? They start a farming movement and get to know the handsome demon who they're cohabiting with!
Rylik was a cinnamon roll who was willing to get his claws out and fight for Audrey's safety. But she also wasn't afraid to jump in, help and do what needed to be done for them both. Their emotional and physical connection was so well done that I completely was invested in their journey. The little moments where she taught him how to garden and he taught her how to weave was such a nice addition to this story. ALSO these two understood communication and how to talk about things, so we didn't need to worry about any miscommunication as they talked everything through and had healthy discussions!
The spice was quite hot, and there was some gorgeous monster anatomy INCLUDING A TAIL PEOPLE!! I love it when tails have many uses 😍
I loved their story and how they both had things that they could teach each other. The only thing I wanted to know more about was the Demon King and how he fully comes into play, but hopefully we get that in the next books! Overall, it was super cosy and the perfect romance to snuggle in with and have a great time.
What you'll find:
🥔 Slow burn romance
🥔 Forced proximity
🥔 Size difference
🥔 NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
🥔 Late 30s FMC
Quotes:
🥔In what backwards, broken society is the ability to nurture and build considered a weakness?
🥔"Histories are written by the victors. Or, at least by those who remain."
🥔 "I would hold back my pleasure, use my tail to play with you, make you come over and over until your body was boneless, until you begged me to come in you."
🥔"I will ruin you." "I don't care." "I care."
April 24, 2026
If I’m being honest… this book had me in a chokehold from page one and never let go.
A botanist falling into the Demon Realm and landing in the arms of a cinnamon roll, touch-starved, knitting demon?? I was done for immediately.
Rylik is the definition of a green flag hero—gentle, protective, deeply lonely, and absolutely gone for Audrey in a way that feels both tender and consuming. And Audrey? A smart, capable, grounded FMC who doesn’t lose herself, even when her entire world flips upside down. Watching her teach a literal demon how to garden while building something soft and real between them? OBSESSED.
The romance is everything I want:
* Slow burn that never drags
* Forced proximity in the coziest cave setting
* Size difference + protective energy 👀
* High heat balanced with genuine emotional connection
* And YES… no third-act breakup (we won)
What really stood out to me was how intentional their relationship felt. It wasn’t rushed, but it also never stalled. Every interaction built trust, intimacy, and that addictive tension that keeps you turning pages.
And the little details? Him crafting textiles with claws. Him wanting to grow things in the dark. Him looking at her like she’s sunlight. I’m unwell.
There’s also an underlying tension with the Demon King that adds just enough danger to keep the stakes high without taking away from the romance.
Bottom line:
Cozy + spicy + emotionally satisfying romantasy done RIGHT.
I’m completely invested in this series and cannot wait to see what comes next. Highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and honestly… more if I could).
April 30, 2026
Tropes first because this one?? COZY, SPICY, and ADORABLY UNHINGED 👀🖤🔥
• monster romance (demon MMC 😮🔥)
• grumpy x sunshine
• forced proximity (cozy cave edition 👀)
• cinnamon roll but make it possessive 🖤
• “he looks terrifying… but he’d burn the world for her” energy
Yeah… I was hooked IMMEDIATELY.
Awakening the Demon is that perfect mix of cozy and chaotic—you’ve got a literal demon… knitting. KNITTING 👀
Rylik??
Huge, horned, terrifying… and also soft, touch-starved, and just wants a garden and someone to care about 🖤
And her??
She just *rolls with it*. Teaching him plants, helping him build something, slowly turning his dark little cave into something warm and alive 🌿
The dynamic??
SO good.
It’s soft, it’s funny, it’s spicy—and that slow shift from “what is happening??” to “I’m not leaving him”?? Yeah… I ate that UP 🔥
And the cozy vibes??
Top tier.
Even with the danger lurking in the background, their little world together feels safe, warm, and addictive 👀
✨ This is a 5⭐ because:
• the grumpy demon x sunshine dynamic is PERFECT
• the cozy setting adds so much charm
• the romance is soft *and* spicy
• it’s fun, unique, and impossible not to love
✨ If you love:
• monster romance 🖤
• cozy fantasy with spice
• soft but possessive MMCs
• “he’s scary to everyone else but gentle with her”
This one is wholesome, spicy, and completely addictive 👀🔥
• monster romance (demon MMC 😮🔥)
• grumpy x sunshine
• forced proximity (cozy cave edition 👀)
• cinnamon roll but make it possessive 🖤
• “he looks terrifying… but he’d burn the world for her” energy
Yeah… I was hooked IMMEDIATELY.
Awakening the Demon is that perfect mix of cozy and chaotic—you’ve got a literal demon… knitting. KNITTING 👀
Rylik??
Huge, horned, terrifying… and also soft, touch-starved, and just wants a garden and someone to care about 🖤
And her??
She just *rolls with it*. Teaching him plants, helping him build something, slowly turning his dark little cave into something warm and alive 🌿
The dynamic??
SO good.
It’s soft, it’s funny, it’s spicy—and that slow shift from “what is happening??” to “I’m not leaving him”?? Yeah… I ate that UP 🔥
And the cozy vibes??
Top tier.
Even with the danger lurking in the background, their little world together feels safe, warm, and addictive 👀
✨ This is a 5⭐ because:
• the grumpy demon x sunshine dynamic is PERFECT
• the cozy setting adds so much charm
• the romance is soft *and* spicy
• it’s fun, unique, and impossible not to love
✨ If you love:
• monster romance 🖤
• cozy fantasy with spice
• soft but possessive MMCs
• “he’s scary to everyone else but gentle with her”
This one is wholesome, spicy, and completely addictive 👀🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cozy High-Heat Monster Romance with Mature Characters and Incredible Character-Driven Steam
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 rounded up)
Cozy cave setting. A 38-year-old botanist. A centuries-old demon who actually communicates. Awakening the Demon surprised me in all the best ways — and I was thrilled to snag an ARC! I’d never read Evelyn Embers before, and this fantastic story committed me to reading the rest of the series and checking out her other work.
The premise hooked me immediately: a brilliant botanist tumbles into a demon’s cozy cave home. Forced proximity quickly ignites into some of the hottest, most vulnerability-filled explicit steam I’ve read in a long time. The five-chili-pepper heat stayed varied, creative, and passionately tied to character growth.
What really elevated this book was how beautifully the multifaceted plot and rich world-building balanced the spice. The Demon King’s interest added genuine stakes without ever overshadowing the couple's intimate, heartfelt connection. Centuries-old lies about humans created real external conflict, leaving Rylik and Audrey trapped between two impossible choices. Audrey’s sharp scientific mind and critical thinking truly shone as she refused to accept either of those dead-end paths and instead found a clever third way forward.
I loved how Embers intentionally avoided contrived miscommunication and unnecessary conflict. These two actually communicated like the mature adults they were. When silence fell after the Rift denied them passage back to Earth, it felt like a heavy, shared weight. It was refreshing how Embers let them sit in that moment with quiet dignity.
I also appreciated that Audrey didn't spend chapters denying her new reality. She questioned, adapted, and moved forward, which kept the story flowing. The scientific details, such as Audrey reciting Latin botanical names to self-soothe, added such a lovely, authentic layer.
Before their meet-cute, both Audrey and Rylik carried profound loneliness, yet Embers never once labeled them as depressed. Instead, she fleshed out their backgrounds and showed their resiliency in the ways they built meaningful, fulfilled lives despite terrible circumstances. That nuance impressed me deeply. It felt respectful and real, acknowledging that people experience mental health struggles differently rather than relying on broad generalizations.
One small honest note: the magical garden descriptions became a bit repetitive after a while, as there are only so many ways to convey its sudden lush beauty. Everything else, though, was a delight.
The intriguing demon realm left me excitedly wondering about future books: the true nature of the Rift and that glimpse of cosmic wonder, the mysterious source of the garden’s sunlight, and what long-term life (and aging) might look like across dimensions.
Overall, this was an intimate, high-heat monster romance done right! I loved the balance of strong emotional depth, intricate plot, and filthy spice that never felt repetitive. I cannot wait for more in the Demons of the Rift series! Highly recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 rounded up)
Cozy cave setting. A 38-year-old botanist. A centuries-old demon who actually communicates. Awakening the Demon surprised me in all the best ways — and I was thrilled to snag an ARC! I’d never read Evelyn Embers before, and this fantastic story committed me to reading the rest of the series and checking out her other work.
The premise hooked me immediately: a brilliant botanist tumbles into a demon’s cozy cave home. Forced proximity quickly ignites into some of the hottest, most vulnerability-filled explicit steam I’ve read in a long time. The five-chili-pepper heat stayed varied, creative, and passionately tied to character growth.
What really elevated this book was how beautifully the multifaceted plot and rich world-building balanced the spice. The Demon King’s interest added genuine stakes without ever overshadowing the couple's intimate, heartfelt connection. Centuries-old lies about humans created real external conflict, leaving Rylik and Audrey trapped between two impossible choices. Audrey’s sharp scientific mind and critical thinking truly shone as she refused to accept either of those dead-end paths and instead found a clever third way forward.
I loved how Embers intentionally avoided contrived miscommunication and unnecessary conflict. These two actually communicated like the mature adults they were. When silence fell after the Rift denied them passage back to Earth, it felt like a heavy, shared weight. It was refreshing how Embers let them sit in that moment with quiet dignity.
I also appreciated that Audrey didn't spend chapters denying her new reality. She questioned, adapted, and moved forward, which kept the story flowing. The scientific details, such as Audrey reciting Latin botanical names to self-soothe, added such a lovely, authentic layer.
Before their meet-cute, both Audrey and Rylik carried profound loneliness, yet Embers never once labeled them as depressed. Instead, she fleshed out their backgrounds and showed their resiliency in the ways they built meaningful, fulfilled lives despite terrible circumstances. That nuance impressed me deeply. It felt respectful and real, acknowledging that people experience mental health struggles differently rather than relying on broad generalizations.
One small honest note: the magical garden descriptions became a bit repetitive after a while, as there are only so many ways to convey its sudden lush beauty. Everything else, though, was a delight.
The intriguing demon realm left me excitedly wondering about future books: the true nature of the Rift and that glimpse of cosmic wonder, the mysterious source of the garden’s sunlight, and what long-term life (and aging) might look like across dimensions.
Overall, this was an intimate, high-heat monster romance done right! I loved the balance of strong emotional depth, intricate plot, and filthy spice that never felt repetitive. I cannot wait for more in the Demons of the Rift series! Highly recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Audrey is a brilliant 38-year-old botanist who literally falls through the ground and lands right in the middle of a hermit demon’s garden. Rylik is massive and horned, but beneath the intimidating appearance is a male with a good heart who is starved for companionship and immediately starts to care for her.
You can't help but fall in love with Rylik (and his talent for knitting). He respects Audrey and her expertise, and even though he wants to take care of her, he never treats her as if she were incapable. He might want to shield her from the world, but he never undermines her agency or dismisses her skills as a botanist. It’s that perfect balance of cherishing her without smothering her, which makes their connection feel so much deeper than just a typical damsel in distress.
The story is a delightful blend of low angst and high heat with likable MCs. Their relationship feels genuine with no miscommunication and no third-act break up. Between Rylik being a complete cinnamon roll and Audrey being both capable and intelligent, I loved them as a couple. Perfect for readers looking for a cozy and spicy monster romance with heart. Looking forward to seeing what happens next in this realm!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You can't help but fall in love with Rylik (and his talent for knitting). He respects Audrey and her expertise, and even though he wants to take care of her, he never treats her as if she were incapable. He might want to shield her from the world, but he never undermines her agency or dismisses her skills as a botanist. It’s that perfect balance of cherishing her without smothering her, which makes their connection feel so much deeper than just a typical damsel in distress.
The story is a delightful blend of low angst and high heat with likable MCs. Their relationship feels genuine with no miscommunication and no third-act break up. Between Rylik being a complete cinnamon roll and Audrey being both capable and intelligent, I loved them as a couple. Perfect for readers looking for a cozy and spicy monster romance with heart. Looking forward to seeing what happens next in this realm!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Awakening the Demon is a cozy, spicy monster romance. I love when cozy fantasies get spicy.. because who doesn't want a monster that's a freak in the sheets that he weaved with his own 2 hands?
Human FMC, Dr. Audrey Torres, is a capable, intelligent woman in her late 30s who hides herself behind academia in the human world. She isn't afraid of the demon realm she unexpectedly finds herself dropped into and instead lets her curiosity and romance bloom. Our demon hermit MMC, Rylik, is a cinnamon roll but won't hesitate to unsheath his claws to protect what's his. These two were so much fun together, especially in those spicy scenes. I really enjoyed the transformation these characters created and seeing their story unfold.
● Portal fantasy
● Cozy vibes
● Forced proximity
● Late 30s FMC
● Monster anatomy 👀
● Touch-starved hero
Overall, this book was so enjoyable. Cozy romances are a nice reminder to slow down and bask in the quiet, cozy moments. Add in some spicy monster action and you've got a winner.
Human FMC, Dr. Audrey Torres, is a capable, intelligent woman in her late 30s who hides herself behind academia in the human world. She isn't afraid of the demon realm she unexpectedly finds herself dropped into and instead lets her curiosity and romance bloom. Our demon hermit MMC, Rylik, is a cinnamon roll but won't hesitate to unsheath his claws to protect what's his. These two were so much fun together, especially in those spicy scenes. I really enjoyed the transformation these characters created and seeing their story unfold.
● Portal fantasy
● Cozy vibes
● Forced proximity
● Late 30s FMC
● Monster anatomy 👀
● Touch-starved hero
Overall, this book was so enjoyable. Cozy romances are a nice reminder to slow down and bask in the quiet, cozy moments. Add in some spicy monster action and you've got a winner.
April 24, 2026
Awakening the Demon by Evelyn Embers delivers a dark and seductive paranormal romance that is packed with desire, supernatural intrigue, and danger. In this book we follow along side the FMC Audrey as she navigates her new reality of having fallen into the demon world where she meets the demon MMC Rylik. One of the biggest things I fell in love with while reading this novel is the instant connection between Audrey and Rylik. While their romance might have burned host and fast, it was balanced out the emotional vulnerability and steamy undertones throughout the story. Overall, this was a fun dark fantasy romance with forbidden attraction that made it hard to stop reading. If you are interested in intense chemistry and dangerous love interests, please give this book a read, you won't regret it!
I received a free advance copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free advance copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was my first book by this author & I loved her world building.
Dr Audrey Torres falls through a rift into the demon world whilst collecting a glowing botanical sample. She lands with a bump in a desolate garden. She struggles to understand what has happened, her scientific brain unable to make the correlation. Rylik - the demon whose garden she landed in - attempts to explain his world & the “eternal war” between demons & humans. Understanding Audrey is nothing like the tales he grew up learning about, they grow very close & the attraction between them reaches boiling point. After their first encounter, the once struggling garden is now beginning to thrive. But danger is never far away, & with Rylik harbouring a human, it’s even closer than ever.
This is a cozy monster romance with a touch starved monster, size difference & HEA.
Dr Audrey Torres falls through a rift into the demon world whilst collecting a glowing botanical sample. She lands with a bump in a desolate garden. She struggles to understand what has happened, her scientific brain unable to make the correlation. Rylik - the demon whose garden she landed in - attempts to explain his world & the “eternal war” between demons & humans. Understanding Audrey is nothing like the tales he grew up learning about, they grow very close & the attraction between them reaches boiling point. After their first encounter, the once struggling garden is now beginning to thrive. But danger is never far away, & with Rylik harbouring a human, it’s even closer than ever.
This is a cozy monster romance with a touch starved monster, size difference & HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is dual POV, well written, and an emotional fantasy romance between Audrey, the female human botanist who has been alone in life since her parents died when she was a teen, and Rylik, the male demon lead who self-isolated after being tormented for his “weak” magic and his lack of interest in normal aggressive demon pursuits. I enjoyed the emotional development of both characters, as they supported each other. I enjoyed Audrey’s determination to make a successful space for herself on Rylik’s world. I empathised with Rylik’s fears, and enjoyed the depth of his devotion and his commitment to succeeding in ways different to demon norms. I enjoyed the relationship development and the intimacy between the characters. I enjoyed the space they carved for themselves in the world.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
April 24, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC.
This was one of the best Cozy Monster Romance books that I have read in a while. This story takes place in a cozy cave setting with a garden, a waterfall, and bodies of water. I devoured this book while kicking my feet, giggling, laughing, and swooning over the characters.
This is such a cute, cozy, spicy, monster romance with a 38 year old brilliant botanist FMC and a centuries old huge scary looking cinnamon roll demon MMC. (Our huge scary looking MMC’s hobbies include knitting and gardening - talk about swooning!)
This story is very spicy and the spice is absolutely delicious. We have horns, a forked tongue, and tail play.
I could not put this book down, I lost sleep and accomplished absolutely nothing around the house hahaha. I highly recommend this book, just be prepared to get nothing else done until you finish it!
This was one of the best Cozy Monster Romance books that I have read in a while. This story takes place in a cozy cave setting with a garden, a waterfall, and bodies of water. I devoured this book while kicking my feet, giggling, laughing, and swooning over the characters.
This is such a cute, cozy, spicy, monster romance with a 38 year old brilliant botanist FMC and a centuries old huge scary looking cinnamon roll demon MMC. (Our huge scary looking MMC’s hobbies include knitting and gardening - talk about swooning!)
This story is very spicy and the spice is absolutely delicious. We have horns, a forked tongue, and tail play.
I could not put this book down, I lost sleep and accomplished absolutely nothing around the house hahaha. I highly recommend this book, just be prepared to get nothing else done until you finish it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be selected as one of the ARC readers for this book and I was immediately drawn into the incredible world.
Our brilliant botanist finds herself falling through a rift into another world, a world inhabited by demons. Those demons had been taught their entire existence that humans are stupid and violent creatures. Now, with the help of her demon lover Rylik, she has to figure out if she can help this dying and pained world or if they should simply try to hide forever.
The book had me laughing several times, where as other times I was caught at the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I am so excited to read the next installment in this series.
Our brilliant botanist finds herself falling through a rift into another world, a world inhabited by demons. Those demons had been taught their entire existence that humans are stupid and violent creatures. Now, with the help of her demon lover Rylik, she has to figure out if she can help this dying and pained world or if they should simply try to hide forever.
The book had me laughing several times, where as other times I was caught at the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I am so excited to read the next installment in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A huge thank you to Evelyn Embers for the ARC of Awakening the Demon! It drops on 4/24!
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be... MAGICAL ✨
I absolutely loved this whimsical monster romance. Audrey is a badass botanist who literally falls into the demon Rylik's realm, where humans have been badmouthed for centuries! This book has two adult main characters that communicate so well while sharing off-the-charts chemistry! Them having interests (other than just each other 😉) made this fantasy world feel so grounded and real.
I’m giving this 4 stars! I loved the world-building so much that I found myself wishing for even more of those high-stakes moments. I still devoured this in one sitting and highly recommend it!
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be... MAGICAL ✨
I absolutely loved this whimsical monster romance. Audrey is a badass botanist who literally falls into the demon Rylik's realm, where humans have been badmouthed for centuries! This book has two adult main characters that communicate so well while sharing off-the-charts chemistry! Them having interests (other than just each other 😉) made this fantasy world feel so grounded and real.
I’m giving this 4 stars! I loved the world-building so much that I found myself wishing for even more of those high-stakes moments. I still devoured this in one sitting and highly recommend it!
April 18, 2026
I absolutely adore a cosy fantasy so you can see how excited I was to see some monster romance added to that combo 😂
This is everything you could want from a book like this and for me it didn’t disappoint. It contains all the tropes that I love: touch starved hero, he falls first 🔥 and I love a book with a guaranteed HEA 🥹
I loved the spice in this book and the “you’re mine” moments get me every time 🥵
The author has written this story so well and the two main characters just gel so well together which creates an absolutely phenomenal connection.
Can I just put myself inside this story? Can I just escape reality to be here for a little while? 😂
Devoured this in one sitting, completely is my vibe and I highly recommend to others 😁 xx
This is everything you could want from a book like this and for me it didn’t disappoint. It contains all the tropes that I love: touch starved hero, he falls first 🔥 and I love a book with a guaranteed HEA 🥹
I loved the spice in this book and the “you’re mine” moments get me every time 🥵
The author has written this story so well and the two main characters just gel so well together which creates an absolutely phenomenal connection.
Can I just put myself inside this story? Can I just escape reality to be here for a little while? 😂
Devoured this in one sitting, completely is my vibe and I highly recommend to others 😁 xx
Review of advance copy received from Author
Awakening the Demon
By Evelyn Embers
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
🪻Cozy Fantasy Monster Romance
🖤Spicy
🪻Demon X Human
🖤Meet-cute
🪻38 year old FMC
What a cute tale of love and spice between Audrey (a 38 year old botanist) and Rylik a horned demon with a talent for creating woven tapestries and blankets.
Audrey is off trying to do her job when she falls through a crack in the human world and lands in Rylik's garden in the demon realm.
Rylik has been taught all his life how rabid humans are but when he sees Audrey he realises it was all a lie.
This book follows their story and will have you hooked from the start. Be careful the tail may bring you immense pleasure 😉
Awakening the Demon releases April 24th 😘🖤
#monstersmut #cozyfantasy #awakeningthedemon #evelynembers #bookreview
By Evelyn Embers
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
🪻Cozy Fantasy Monster Romance
🖤Spicy
🪻Demon X Human
🖤Meet-cute
🪻38 year old FMC
What a cute tale of love and spice between Audrey (a 38 year old botanist) and Rylik a horned demon with a talent for creating woven tapestries and blankets.
Audrey is off trying to do her job when she falls through a crack in the human world and lands in Rylik's garden in the demon realm.
Rylik has been taught all his life how rabid humans are but when he sees Audrey he realises it was all a lie.
This book follows their story and will have you hooked from the start. Be careful the tail may bring you immense pleasure 😉
Awakening the Demon releases April 24th 😘🖤
#monstersmut #cozyfantasy #awakeningthedemon #evelynembers #bookreview
April 24, 2026
This was such a fun and cozy monster romance. This is the first book I've read by this author and the world building was clear, characters fascinating and strong, and the slow burn romance was on point for Rylik and Audrey. She's a botanist that's fallen through to the demon realm. Rylik is the demon that found her and he was beyond sweet, gentle and caring. Think green flag hero :D He really looked at her as if she was the sun. Just melts the heart... This is a forced proximity, size difference and high heat romance that ends in a fab HEA. I love that the author skillfully balanced the emotional connection with the spice, giving me a page turning read. So good and I can't wait for what's next by this author :D
Review of advance copy received from Author
Incredible adventure.
I couldn’t put this book down. The action keeps coming from so many unexpected angles and the spice keeps heating up the pages. Amazing world-building, wonderful characters that blast so many stereotypes away, and a plot that will keep you entertained. I was so excited to get the opportunity to receive a free advanced copy of this book, from an author I love, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review here. There is on-page spice, mild voyeurism, protective and yet gentle alpha demon, and a sassy, intelligent human woman that shakes an entire realm. I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series.
I couldn’t put this book down. The action keeps coming from so many unexpected angles and the spice keeps heating up the pages. Amazing world-building, wonderful characters that blast so many stereotypes away, and a plot that will keep you entertained. I was so excited to get the opportunity to receive a free advanced copy of this book, from an author I love, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review here. There is on-page spice, mild voyeurism, protective and yet gentle alpha demon, and a sassy, intelligent human woman that shakes an entire realm. I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶🌶🌶
I absolutely adored and fell in love with Rylik. Audrey is a strong independent woman who falls into the realm of demons and magic by accident. Rylik is a social outcast amongst demonkind and wants to live peacefully growing his garden and weaving. They find out what they have always been taught about humans and demons may not be completely true. Sweet, cozy and spicy with Dual POV(That tongue and tail!). I need more stories and characters like these from Evelyn. Thank you for letting me read this amazing story, I can't wait to read more.
I absolutely adored and fell in love with Rylik. Audrey is a strong independent woman who falls into the realm of demons and magic by accident. Rylik is a social outcast amongst demonkind and wants to live peacefully growing his garden and weaving. They find out what they have always been taught about humans and demons may not be completely true. Sweet, cozy and spicy with Dual POV(That tongue and tail!). I need more stories and characters like these from Evelyn. Thank you for letting me read this amazing story, I can't wait to read more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a cute, cosy monster romance!!
Rylik (MMC) was the biggest cinnamon roll of a demon 😈 he literally could not wait to take care of our girl whilst also giving off the biggest touch her and die vibes!
Audrey (FMC) was such a sweet heart, who I felt instantly saw the good in her demon and just wants to help!
The plot was adorable and I cant wait to see where this series goes!
Tropes...
-Tail play
-Forked tongue
-HEA
-Cinnamon roll demon
-One bed (One cave)
-Forced proximity
Rylik (MMC) was the biggest cinnamon roll of a demon 😈 he literally could not wait to take care of our girl whilst also giving off the biggest touch her and die vibes!
Audrey (FMC) was such a sweet heart, who I felt instantly saw the good in her demon and just wants to help!
The plot was adorable and I cant wait to see where this series goes!
Tropes...
-Tail play
-Forked tongue
-HEA
-Cinnamon roll demon
-One bed (One cave)
-Forced proximity
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was luckily enough to be an ARC reader for this book, and I absolutely loved it!
The cozy vibes of this story was perfect, and makes me wish I had some quilts woven by a handsome demon! Having a badass strong female main character is always lovely, but one around my age was awesome! Plus how much her demon was obsessed with her? Just perfect!
Highly recommend if you want some cozy spicy!
The cozy vibes of this story was perfect, and makes me wish I had some quilts woven by a handsome demon! Having a badass strong female main character is always lovely, but one around my age was awesome! Plus how much her demon was obsessed with her? Just perfect!
Highly recommend if you want some cozy spicy!
Review of advance copy
ARC review:
A botanist falls into another realm after looking for a rare plant. Luckily she falls near a demon that doesn’t want to destroy her but care for her. She helps him make his garden grow with all her botany knowledge. They eventually fall for each other causing magic to make their garden even better.
Their love story was nice. Plus his unusual 🍆.
A botanist falls into another realm after looking for a rare plant. Luckily she falls near a demon that doesn’t want to destroy her but care for her. She helps him make his garden grow with all her botany knowledge. They eventually fall for each other causing magic to make their garden even better.
Their love story was nice. Plus his unusual 🍆.
April 30, 2026
Audrey is a 38-year-old botanist who falls, literally, for the big red demon Rylik. A hermit in desperate need of help with his failing garden. Both are lonely and both are exactly what the other needs. The only problem is, the other Demons cannot find out Audrey fell into their realm because she may not survive an encounter.
This was cute. I loved the progression of the relationship between the two as they grew closer together, but I do feel like Audrey would not have accepted her situation so easily and tried harder to get home when she'd first arrived. However, it is 100% believeable that she wanted to stay eventually. Rylik and Audrey seemed to be made for each and where 2 halves of a whole.
Although this book was slow for a while, I loved how the story developed and the eventual ending.
This was cute. I loved the progression of the relationship between the two as they grew closer together, but I do feel like Audrey would not have accepted her situation so easily and tried harder to get home when she'd first arrived. However, it is 100% believeable that she wanted to stay eventually. Rylik and Audrey seemed to be made for each and where 2 halves of a whole.
Although this book was slow for a while, I loved how the story developed and the eventual ending.
August 7, 2026
I received the 2nd book in this series as an ARC so decided to read this one before.
If you don’t like super spicy books then this one is not for you… but I sure like them! Hoping I get to meet a Demon like Rylik in my next life!
This was my first monster romance and I’m looking forward to reading Healing The Demon.
If you don’t like super spicy books then this one is not for you… but I sure like them! Hoping I get to meet a Demon like Rylik in my next life!
This was my first monster romance and I’m looking forward to reading Healing The Demon.
June 12, 2026
This book is the epitome of a calm and peaceful romance that just simply grows with time. It was so perfect but somewhere along the way the plot just became heavy and stressful in the midst of my cozy story.
July 13, 2026
Absolutely obsessed!! Rylik stole my heart with his soft warm heart and need to both care for and protect his mate. Watching them learn each other and become so close - in all the right ways ;) was beautiful and the spice was AMAZING!! Oh my lawd I need more!
July 20, 2026
This was a fantastic demon romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Audrey is a botanist, and when studying plant life in Pennsylvania she falls into the Rift, and ends up in the demon realm. Thankfully she is found by the demon Rylik, a gardener, who is kind and gentle.
What follows is a sweet romance, with some delicious spicyness, and it turns out that some demon × human fun times can be truly magical in many ways 😉
If you're a fan of smart, capable women hooking up with kind demons, I definitely recommend this series.
Audrey is a botanist, and when studying plant life in Pennsylvania she falls into the Rift, and ends up in the demon realm. Thankfully she is found by the demon Rylik, a gardener, who is kind and gentle.
What follows is a sweet romance, with some delicious spicyness, and it turns out that some demon × human fun times can be truly magical in many ways 😉
If you're a fan of smart, capable women hooking up with kind demons, I definitely recommend this series.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 42 reviews