What do you think?
A Field Beyond Notions
Never bargain with a daimon who asks for a dinner date in return. Especially when he’s your new boss.
Rosario:
My alchemy diploma is as useless as the men I’ve been dating.
Blacklisted from the industry, I took the job nobody else would touch: glorified assistant to the Divine Executioner, God’s favorite assassin. He tortures with flair. Kills with a smile… and yet it’s his longing stares that leave me truly terrified.
This gig is just a stepping stone until I save up enough to start my own alchemy boutique. The only problem is, the Executioner is a ruthless immortal beyond temporal laws, said to tally corpses and lovers in equal measure. I have a bad feeling he will never let me go.
The Executioner:
Humans think I’m a psychopath. I don’t think about them at all.
My routine keeps me sane. Seven days per prisoner. Feed on fear. Dispose. Paperwork. Repeat.
But ever since Rosario became my operations manager, I’ve been lovestruck. For the first time in centuries.
I watch her sleep. I plan our life together. I hear the bells toll.
Till death do us part is a wonderful notion… especially when you’re immortal.
Content note: this is a paranormal dark obsession romance. It contains themes that some readers might find disturbing. A full CW list is available on the author’s website.
Rosario:
My alchemy diploma is as useless as the men I’ve been dating.
Blacklisted from the industry, I took the job nobody else would touch: glorified assistant to the Divine Executioner, God’s favorite assassin. He tortures with flair. Kills with a smile… and yet it’s his longing stares that leave me truly terrified.
This gig is just a stepping stone until I save up enough to start my own alchemy boutique. The only problem is, the Executioner is a ruthless immortal beyond temporal laws, said to tally corpses and lovers in equal measure. I have a bad feeling he will never let me go.
The Executioner:
Humans think I’m a psychopath. I don’t think about them at all.
My routine keeps me sane. Seven days per prisoner. Feed on fear. Dispose. Paperwork. Repeat.
But ever since Rosario became my operations manager, I’ve been lovestruck. For the first time in centuries.
I watch her sleep. I plan our life together. I hear the bells toll.
Till death do us part is a wonderful notion… especially when you’re immortal.
Content note: this is a paranormal dark obsession romance. It contains themes that some readers might find disturbing. A full CW list is available on the author’s website.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2026
About the author
Atria J. Merian
1 bookAtria J. Merian is the author of A Field Beyond Notions. When not writing, plotting, or scheming, she is an avid reader obsessed with everything dark and twisted. A mask enthusiast since the 90s, she is also a cozy gamer and hobbyist baker. One sure way to start a conversation with Atria is by mentioning submechanophobia.
Check Content Warnings on Atria's Website or subscribe to Atria's Newsletter
Check Content Warnings on Atria's Website or subscribe to Atria's Newsletter
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 13, 2026
Buckle up because this story is one hell of a wild ride. This story was fire 🔥 once I got started, I was ready to get burned. There was no way I was putting this down. This pulled me in so fast and I devoured this one. This was seriously dark, it crawled into that tummy recess in the back of my mind and took up residency. And it can live there rent free forever. This was twisted and spicy. I was obsessed. I couldn’t get enough of the psychological warfare that went on in my head as I read this. But it was definitely worth it.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I enjoyed the story and found the atmosphere captivating, I would have loved to see a deeper exploration of Enver's past and motivations. Understanding more about his family, upbringing, and emotional development would have strengthened my connection to him and made his journey from obsession to love feel more convincing. Additionally, more distinct narrative voices between the dual POVs would have enhanced the reading experience, particularly in the latter half of the novel.
I really enjoyed the gothic atmosphere and found the story highly engaging. The aesthetic remained consistent throughout the novel, and the relationship dynamics kept me invested enough that I am interested in reading the sequel.
A few areas where I felt the story could be strengthened:
Enver's backstory
I found Enver compelling, but I wanted more depth regarding his personal history. His parents' deaths, his relationship with his sister, and his found family are all mentioned, but only briefly. These elements seem important to understanding who he is, and I would have loved to see them explored further.
Obsession versus love
I never struggled to understand Enver's obsession with Rosario. That aspect felt clear and consistent from the beginning. However, I was less convinced by the transition from obsession to love. More scenes showing emotional intimacy, vulnerability, or moments that specifically explain why Rosario became important to him beyond his initial fixation could strengthen the romance.
Dual POV voice differentiation
While I appreciated having both perspectives, I found it increasingly difficult to distinguish between Enver's and Rosario's narrative voices toward the end of the novel. Their personalities remained distinct, but their internal narration often felt very similar. At times, I relied on the chapter headings to remember whose perspective I was reading.
Character development
Both protagonists remain consistent in their actions and motivations, which I appreciated. However, I would have enjoyed more opportunities to explore their individual identities outside of the relationship, especially as the story progressed.
Overall, I found the book entertaining, atmospheric, and emotionally engaging. The dark themes and content warnings felt appropriate and accurately reflected the story's content.
While I enjoyed the story and found the atmosphere captivating, I would have loved to see a deeper exploration of Enver's past and motivations. Understanding more about his family, upbringing, and emotional development would have strengthened my connection to him and made his journey from obsession to love feel more convincing. Additionally, more distinct narrative voices between the dual POVs would have enhanced the reading experience, particularly in the latter half of the novel.
I really enjoyed the gothic atmosphere and found the story highly engaging. The aesthetic remained consistent throughout the novel, and the relationship dynamics kept me invested enough that I am interested in reading the sequel.
A few areas where I felt the story could be strengthened:
Enver's backstory
I found Enver compelling, but I wanted more depth regarding his personal history. His parents' deaths, his relationship with his sister, and his found family are all mentioned, but only briefly. These elements seem important to understanding who he is, and I would have loved to see them explored further.
Obsession versus love
I never struggled to understand Enver's obsession with Rosario. That aspect felt clear and consistent from the beginning. However, I was less convinced by the transition from obsession to love. More scenes showing emotional intimacy, vulnerability, or moments that specifically explain why Rosario became important to him beyond his initial fixation could strengthen the romance.
Dual POV voice differentiation
While I appreciated having both perspectives, I found it increasingly difficult to distinguish between Enver's and Rosario's narrative voices toward the end of the novel. Their personalities remained distinct, but their internal narration often felt very similar. At times, I relied on the chapter headings to remember whose perspective I was reading.
Character development
Both protagonists remain consistent in their actions and motivations, which I appreciated. However, I would have enjoyed more opportunities to explore their individual identities outside of the relationship, especially as the story progressed.
Overall, I found the book entertaining, atmospheric, and emotionally engaging. The dark themes and content warnings felt appropriate and accurately reflected the story's content.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2026
this book was gifted to me, but that has absolutely no influence on my opinion because i genuinely think i’ve rarely read a story that made me feel this much.
i fell in love from the very first chapter. it’s honestly impossible not to, especially if you love spicy books, because the spice is definitely present throughout most of the story and, in my opinion, it was done so well. never boring, never repetitive, and actually fitting the dynamic between the characters.
i read some of the other reviews after finishing the book and i completely understand a lot of the different opinions, especially when it comes to enver. i saw people saying that, despite being a demon and such a powerful figure, he basically lets rosario treat him like a dog. but i personally didn’t see it that way at all.
what i saw was a demonic being falling in love for the first time. someone who has absolutely no idea what to do with that kind of feeling and is just trying, in his own way, to understand it and express it. i saw a man who would genuinely do anything for the woman he loves, even when she makes it incredibly difficult for him.
rosario is definitely not the usual female main character. she’s not soft, she’s not passive and she definitely doesn’t just accept everything. she talks back, she can be harsh, and yes, sometimes she treats enver badly. there were definitely moments where even i wanted to shake her and ask her WHY, because enver truly did not deserve some of the things she said or did to him.
but at the same time, i think that’s also part of what makes people react so strongly to her. we’ve read so many books where the male character treats the female character horribly and people still love him, so seeing the roles almost reversed here probably feels strange to some readers. rosario is complicated, frustrating and sometimes difficult to understand, but i also think she’s a character you need to really pay attention to.
and despite all of that, i absolutely loved their dynamic.
their love story is messy, unconventional, sometimes completely insane, but it’s also the kind of love story i know i’m going to remember for a very long time. i’m completely in love with enver and rosario, with everything they are separately and especially with what they are together.
enver has honestly become one of my favorite characters ever.
i loved every page of this book. the writing completely pulled me in, the spice was perfect for me, and i genuinely fell in love with the author’s style. i’m actually upset she doesn’t have another hundred books out already because i would read every single one of them without thinking twice.
this was such an adventure, and i’m genuinely grateful i got the chance to read it.
i would reread this book a thousand times. it has a special place in my heart now, and i already miss these characters.
i fell in love from the very first chapter. it’s honestly impossible not to, especially if you love spicy books, because the spice is definitely present throughout most of the story and, in my opinion, it was done so well. never boring, never repetitive, and actually fitting the dynamic between the characters.
i read some of the other reviews after finishing the book and i completely understand a lot of the different opinions, especially when it comes to enver. i saw people saying that, despite being a demon and such a powerful figure, he basically lets rosario treat him like a dog. but i personally didn’t see it that way at all.
what i saw was a demonic being falling in love for the first time. someone who has absolutely no idea what to do with that kind of feeling and is just trying, in his own way, to understand it and express it. i saw a man who would genuinely do anything for the woman he loves, even when she makes it incredibly difficult for him.
rosario is definitely not the usual female main character. she’s not soft, she’s not passive and she definitely doesn’t just accept everything. she talks back, she can be harsh, and yes, sometimes she treats enver badly. there were definitely moments where even i wanted to shake her and ask her WHY, because enver truly did not deserve some of the things she said or did to him.
but at the same time, i think that’s also part of what makes people react so strongly to her. we’ve read so many books where the male character treats the female character horribly and people still love him, so seeing the roles almost reversed here probably feels strange to some readers. rosario is complicated, frustrating and sometimes difficult to understand, but i also think she’s a character you need to really pay attention to.
and despite all of that, i absolutely loved their dynamic.
their love story is messy, unconventional, sometimes completely insane, but it’s also the kind of love story i know i’m going to remember for a very long time. i’m completely in love with enver and rosario, with everything they are separately and especially with what they are together.
enver has honestly become one of my favorite characters ever.
i loved every page of this book. the writing completely pulled me in, the spice was perfect for me, and i genuinely fell in love with the author’s style. i’m actually upset she doesn’t have another hundred books out already because i would read every single one of them without thinking twice.
this was such an adventure, and i’m genuinely grateful i got the chance to read it.
i would reread this book a thousand times. it has a special place in my heart now, and i already miss these characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⚠️ Content Warning⚠️: This book contains dark themes, heavy psychological distress, and highly explicit elements. Please check the author's detailed content warnings before reading.
This book is a dark, intense journey that left me feeling like I’d run an emotional marathon. From the start, the gritty atmosphere and unique world-building pulled me right in, creating a fascinating, transgressive mix of Christianic blasphemy and supernatural law that felt completely distinct.
My Reactions & Emotions
High-Wire Psychological Strain: The mental tension in this story is incredibly high. I found myself deeply caught between being hooked by the top-tier banter and being genuinely stressed by the FMC’s terror, which made the reading experience feel very visceral.
Gothic Atmospheric Layers: I absolutely loved the subtle nods to Phantom of the Opera and Sweeney Todd. They added a perfect, haunting layer to the MMC’s obsession and made his unsettling nature even more fascinating to watch unfold.
Tested Patience and High Angst: The "will they, won’t they" dynamic was an absolute test of my patience because the angst is dialed up to a ten. At times, the constant psychological miscommunication and the cycle of assuming the worst felt a bit over-the-top, transforming the slow burn into a bit of an endurance test where the momentum dipped in the middle.
What I Loved
A Compelling, Terrifying Lead: The MMC is written with impressive skill. He is fascinating, unsettling, and driven by a deeply fixated obsession—including a literal appetite for pain and guilt—that makes him an unforgettable dark romance lead.
Scorching Explicit Heat: This story features incredibly explicit, high-heat romance elements that perfectly mirror the raw intensity of the plot. The physical chemistry between the leads is deeply magnetic, adding a heavy layer of passion to the darkness.
Satisfying Emotional Payoff: The relationship is undeniably toxic, yet the payoff is incredibly high-heat once the characters finally reach their breaking point. The resolution felt deeply satisfying and well-crafted.
Ultimately, this is a dark, highly explicit paranormal story with impressive prose, great theological concepts, and distinct characters. The sheer volume of emotional turmoil makes it a one-time read for me rather than a reread, but I am incredibly glad I experienced this intense journey!
⚠️ Content Warning⚠️: This book contains dark themes, heavy psychological distress, and highly explicit elements. Please check the author's detailed content warnings before reading.
This book is a dark, intense journey that left me feeling like I’d run an emotional marathon. From the start, the gritty atmosphere and unique world-building pulled me right in, creating a fascinating, transgressive mix of Christianic blasphemy and supernatural law that felt completely distinct.
My Reactions & Emotions
High-Wire Psychological Strain: The mental tension in this story is incredibly high. I found myself deeply caught between being hooked by the top-tier banter and being genuinely stressed by the FMC’s terror, which made the reading experience feel very visceral.
Gothic Atmospheric Layers: I absolutely loved the subtle nods to Phantom of the Opera and Sweeney Todd. They added a perfect, haunting layer to the MMC’s obsession and made his unsettling nature even more fascinating to watch unfold.
Tested Patience and High Angst: The "will they, won’t they" dynamic was an absolute test of my patience because the angst is dialed up to a ten. At times, the constant psychological miscommunication and the cycle of assuming the worst felt a bit over-the-top, transforming the slow burn into a bit of an endurance test where the momentum dipped in the middle.
What I Loved
A Compelling, Terrifying Lead: The MMC is written with impressive skill. He is fascinating, unsettling, and driven by a deeply fixated obsession—including a literal appetite for pain and guilt—that makes him an unforgettable dark romance lead.
Scorching Explicit Heat: This story features incredibly explicit, high-heat romance elements that perfectly mirror the raw intensity of the plot. The physical chemistry between the leads is deeply magnetic, adding a heavy layer of passion to the darkness.
Satisfying Emotional Payoff: The relationship is undeniably toxic, yet the payoff is incredibly high-heat once the characters finally reach their breaking point. The resolution felt deeply satisfying and well-crafted.
Ultimately, this is a dark, highly explicit paranormal story with impressive prose, great theological concepts, and distinct characters. The sheer volume of emotional turmoil makes it a one-time read for me rather than a reread, but I am incredibly glad I experienced this intense journey!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Enver, the sweetest, hottest, most masculine daimon in my heart. I LOVED HIM. At first I was very skeptical about the book BUT dont let the start throw you off. As soon as Rosario (FMC) and Enver (MMC) start having contact… let me tell you, I had to close the book take a breath, do a few pumps of my inhaler and return… THE STEAM IS STEAMING. The way the MMC was so attentive and careful BUT dominant and sexy and hot with all that filthy mouth of his, I am telling you, you are about to be jealous and wonder WHERE IS MY FILTHY DAIMON… Be very careful with the TRIGGER WARNING LIST, for me I am a pitch black reader and I love my twisted kinks a lot. Enver was very sweet with her, and the begging… from both sides. I don't know how the author made it so HOT, being dominant and begging at the same d!mn time.
I got MAD with the FMC, so stuck in her fears and throughts and she WANTED HIM but tbh she went through a lot, no spoilers here. Let's say don't give up on her, your heart will ache for MMC who is sweet and crazy at the same time about her.
Oh and you might want to punch him and kiss him at the same time. The author did a very good job had me turning the pages searching and craving for more the more I was diving into the story.
All in all:
Plot: 3.7/5
Steam: 5/5🔥
Romance: 4.5/5
Enver, the sweetest, hottest, most masculine daimon in my heart. I LOVED HIM. At first I was very skeptical about the book BUT dont let the start throw you off. As soon as Rosario (FMC) and Enver (MMC) start having contact… let me tell you, I had to close the book take a breath, do a few pumps of my inhaler and return… THE STEAM IS STEAMING. The way the MMC was so attentive and careful BUT dominant and sexy and hot with all that filthy mouth of his, I am telling you, you are about to be jealous and wonder WHERE IS MY FILTHY DAIMON… Be very careful with the TRIGGER WARNING LIST, for me I am a pitch black reader and I love my twisted kinks a lot. Enver was very sweet with her, and the begging… from both sides. I don't know how the author made it so HOT, being dominant and begging at the same d!mn time.
I got MAD with the FMC, so stuck in her fears and throughts and she WANTED HIM but tbh she went through a lot, no spoilers here. Let's say don't give up on her, your heart will ache for MMC who is sweet and crazy at the same time about her.
Oh and you might want to punch him and kiss him at the same time. The author did a very good job had me turning the pages searching and craving for more the more I was diving into the story.
All in all:
Plot: 3.7/5
Steam: 5/5🔥
Romance: 4.5/5
Review of advance copy
I received an advanced copy via BookSirens in exchange for my honest review.
Ok, so…. Enver and Rosario are deranged, but you know what? It works for them.
At first I felt like I was missing something, like the story started off mid act but then the drunken pining finally hooked me in. So cute, and I never thought I’d say that about an executioner. Enver is so obsessed with her I legitimately felt bad for him… and when she FINALLY agreed to go to dinner with him?! I was kicking my feet. Once he got her there boy did not waste any time at all… just 0 to 1000000. Went from being borderline sweet to absolutely feral before dinner even was served. Go off Enver, shoot your shot.
Rosario battles a lot of mental demons, trying to cope with her past trauma with alcohol and being at constant war with her conflicting emotions. I think this is something a lot of readers will be able to relate to and be thrilled when she comes out the other side on top.
Enver is a weird mix of cinnamon roll and psychopath, who is absolutely head over heels since day one. While is “acts of love” are pretty questionable and definitely problematic I couldn’t help but think awww give him a chance honey!
All in it was a good read, a 3.5 from me (upgraded to 4 because there is no half!) and at a little over 400 pages it was just long enough to get their story across without feeling overly rushed. Lots of detailed spice as well, just make sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Ok, so…. Enver and Rosario are deranged, but you know what? It works for them.
At first I felt like I was missing something, like the story started off mid act but then the drunken pining finally hooked me in. So cute, and I never thought I’d say that about an executioner. Enver is so obsessed with her I legitimately felt bad for him… and when she FINALLY agreed to go to dinner with him?! I was kicking my feet. Once he got her there boy did not waste any time at all… just 0 to 1000000. Went from being borderline sweet to absolutely feral before dinner even was served. Go off Enver, shoot your shot.
Rosario battles a lot of mental demons, trying to cope with her past trauma with alcohol and being at constant war with her conflicting emotions. I think this is something a lot of readers will be able to relate to and be thrilled when she comes out the other side on top.
Enver is a weird mix of cinnamon roll and psychopath, who is absolutely head over heels since day one. While is “acts of love” are pretty questionable and definitely problematic I couldn’t help but think awww give him a chance honey!
All in it was a good read, a 3.5 from me (upgraded to 4 because there is no half!) and at a little over 400 pages it was just long enough to get their story across without feeling overly rushed. Lots of detailed spice as well, just make sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'd seen a couple of videos on the authors tiktok and was immediately intrigued. After getting in contact I managed to snag an Arc copy
I'm happy to say that I finished it in a day and the relationship between the two main characters was frankly filthy
Enver was the sweetest dirtiest man. The definition of two side of the same coin. I loved how the author wrote him and he is definitely my favourite character and the effort… chef kiss. He's like a golden retriever cross with a Cane corso
I will admit that Rose did piss me off at times I understand her trust issues but man did I wanna just grab her and shake her for some of the things she'd say to him but I think that's because I grew heavily attached to Enver extremely quickly
The spice though
Jesus the spice, there was praise and a heavy waterboard (figuratively speaking) of degradation but it was sooooo good. Now I love a sprinkle of degradation here and there and with the way the book was written I did not expect to enjoy this kind of degradation but I'm pleasantly surprised
Kink unlocked
Nothing about the author or how the book was written has any correlation to the 4 stars I would have happily given 5 it simply come down to the fact that I didn't like the female main character at times but that's a me problem not an author problem
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'd seen a couple of videos on the authors tiktok and was immediately intrigued. After getting in contact I managed to snag an Arc copy
I'm happy to say that I finished it in a day and the relationship between the two main characters was frankly filthy
Enver was the sweetest dirtiest man. The definition of two side of the same coin. I loved how the author wrote him and he is definitely my favourite character and the effort… chef kiss. He's like a golden retriever cross with a Cane corso
I will admit that Rose did piss me off at times I understand her trust issues but man did I wanna just grab her and shake her for some of the things she'd say to him but I think that's because I grew heavily attached to Enver extremely quickly
The spice though
Jesus the spice, there was praise and a heavy waterboard (figuratively speaking) of degradation but it was sooooo good. Now I love a sprinkle of degradation here and there and with the way the book was written I did not expect to enjoy this kind of degradation but I'm pleasantly surprised
Kink unlocked
Nothing about the author or how the book was written has any correlation to the 4 stars I would have happily given 5 it simply come down to the fact that I didn't like the female main character at times but that's a me problem not an author problem
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2026
This dark paranormal romance stood out to me because of its unique world-building and unusual characters. The story follows an Executioner and his human operations manager, creating a dynamic that feels fresh and different from many books in the genre.
As a full-length novel, the story takes a little while to get going, but I didn't mind that. The slower start allows the author to establish the world and the characters, making the later developments much more rewarding. Once the story finds its rhythm, the plot becomes increasingly engaging.
One of the highlights for me was the chemistry between the main characters. Even from the opening chapters, the attraction between them is unmistakable, and the tension continues to build throughout the book. Combined with the distinctive story arc and imaginative setting, it makes for a compelling read.
My only real criticism is the cover. In my opinion, it doesn't do the book justice or reflect how interesting the story actually is.
Overall, this is a strong dark paranormal romance with memorable characters, excellent world-building, and a relationship that keeps you invested from beginning to end. If you enjoy darker romances with a unique premise and plenty of chemistry, this one is well worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As a full-length novel, the story takes a little while to get going, but I didn't mind that. The slower start allows the author to establish the world and the characters, making the later developments much more rewarding. Once the story finds its rhythm, the plot becomes increasingly engaging.
One of the highlights for me was the chemistry between the main characters. Even from the opening chapters, the attraction between them is unmistakable, and the tension continues to build throughout the book. Combined with the distinctive story arc and imaginative setting, it makes for a compelling read.
My only real criticism is the cover. In my opinion, it doesn't do the book justice or reflect how interesting the story actually is.
Overall, this is a strong dark paranormal romance with memorable characters, excellent world-building, and a relationship that keeps you invested from beginning to end. If you enjoy darker romances with a unique premise and plenty of chemistry, this one is well worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2026
What I loved:
-Alchemy. 10/10.
-An FMC who isn't perfect and has her own things she needs to deal with throughout the story.
-Redhead MMC - underrepped in the genre as a whole.
-It took me a few chapters to vibe with the writing style, especially when little is explained up front in terms of side characters, world, magic mechanics, etc, but it forced me to pay attention and was explained in more detail when it actually mattered to the plot.
- a fresh take on demons and how they interact with the world that I don't think I've read before.
As someone who doesn't read a ton of dark romance, I was a little unsure of their dynamic at first and I think the midpoint relationship drama had me questioning it even more. By the last third of the book though I was absolutely rooting for them.
The author did a great job with worldbuilding and I'd like even more page time dedicated to the world itself. This is a solid debut, and I'd want to read a sequel or continuation novel.
I usually don't care much about the MMC POV in romance books but I was 100% intrigued by Enver and found myself wanting to read his chapters the most.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
-Alchemy. 10/10.
-An FMC who isn't perfect and has her own things she needs to deal with throughout the story.
-Redhead MMC - underrepped in the genre as a whole.
-It took me a few chapters to vibe with the writing style, especially when little is explained up front in terms of side characters, world, magic mechanics, etc, but it forced me to pay attention and was explained in more detail when it actually mattered to the plot.
- a fresh take on demons and how they interact with the world that I don't think I've read before.
As someone who doesn't read a ton of dark romance, I was a little unsure of their dynamic at first and I think the midpoint relationship drama had me questioning it even more. By the last third of the book though I was absolutely rooting for them.
The author did a great job with worldbuilding and I'd like even more page time dedicated to the world itself. This is a solid debut, and I'd want to read a sequel or continuation novel.
I usually don't care much about the MMC POV in romance books but I was 100% intrigued by Enver and found myself wanting to read his chapters the most.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gore +++
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Storyline 🥵💀🩸
•
Tropes I should NOT love but have me breathless and wanting more…
☠️Stalker and WILLING prey
☠️TORTURE for her… not just kill!
☠️ Golden retriever MMC 🥵 this was a new one for me!
☠️ And did I mention he has a mask?! 💀💦
•
I devoured this book right up to the climax, and what a delicious climax it is. Gore, Revenge, F*cking and a Deeply concerning obsession.
While Rosario tries to keep it strictly professional something delightfully sinister is unfolding… much like her glistening labia for him, and him alone. She’s as cold as ice leaving not only the (sick f*ck) main male character reeling and confused but me too if I’m honest 😅
•
The plot was just 🥵☠️💦🌶️ 🍆🍆🍆🍑☠️🍑🩸🩸 with more twists and turns than a British B Road, but I just couldn’t stop! That was, until the final chapters.
I had to keep putting the book down, drawing out the inevitable, edging my way through those final pages… toes curled, begging for one page more.
•
Thank you to Atria J. Merian and Pen Pinery for the opportunity to read ‘A Field Beyond Notions’ I can not wait for more.
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Storyline 🥵💀🩸
•
Tropes I should NOT love but have me breathless and wanting more…
☠️Stalker and WILLING prey
☠️TORTURE for her… not just kill!
☠️ Golden retriever MMC 🥵 this was a new one for me!
☠️ And did I mention he has a mask?! 💀💦
•
I devoured this book right up to the climax, and what a delicious climax it is. Gore, Revenge, F*cking and a Deeply concerning obsession.
While Rosario tries to keep it strictly professional something delightfully sinister is unfolding… much like her glistening labia for him, and him alone. She’s as cold as ice leaving not only the (sick f*ck) main male character reeling and confused but me too if I’m honest 😅
•
The plot was just 🥵☠️💦🌶️ 🍆🍆🍆🍑☠️🍑🩸🩸 with more twists and turns than a British B Road, but I just couldn’t stop! That was, until the final chapters.
I had to keep putting the book down, drawing out the inevitable, edging my way through those final pages… toes curled, begging for one page more.
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Thank you to Atria J. Merian and Pen Pinery for the opportunity to read ‘A Field Beyond Notions’ I can not wait for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an unexpected delight!! The cover and title had put me in mind of an old fashioned romance… and I’m thrilled to announce I was 100% wrong!!
This is a fantastically dark fantasy full of dark humour and unhinged characters who deal in the deaths of humans who probably deserve it.
I am bonkers for these mc’s: efficient alchemist Rosario who is convinced her employer is going to mess her around like every other man… erm, demon. She is all sass and snark and sheer stubbornness that makes me want to beat my head upon a brick wall. And the Executioner who is adorably besotted and not above begging. Seriously, he begs, pleads, gets on his knees… and does all manner of delightful things to win over his woman! Special mention must also go to Salomea who is the perfect ride or die, gives great advice, takes Rosie under her wing, and will cheerfully kill her bestie when required.
This is spicy and dark and gory and GLORIOUS!! My snorts of mirth are scaring my partner, the chilli rating has me sweating, and I am SWOONING over Enver who somehow manages to be an absolute gentleman even when playing with entrails or taking out his debauched desires on his beloved custodian.
This is a fantastically dark fantasy full of dark humour and unhinged characters who deal in the deaths of humans who probably deserve it.
I am bonkers for these mc’s: efficient alchemist Rosario who is convinced her employer is going to mess her around like every other man… erm, demon. She is all sass and snark and sheer stubbornness that makes me want to beat my head upon a brick wall. And the Executioner who is adorably besotted and not above begging. Seriously, he begs, pleads, gets on his knees… and does all manner of delightful things to win over his woman! Special mention must also go to Salomea who is the perfect ride or die, gives great advice, takes Rosie under her wing, and will cheerfully kill her bestie when required.
This is spicy and dark and gory and GLORIOUS!! My snorts of mirth are scaring my partner, the chilli rating has me sweating, and I am SWOONING over Enver who somehow manages to be an absolute gentleman even when playing with entrails or taking out his debauched desires on his beloved custodian.
August 12, 2026
This book kept me wanting to turn the pages because I couldn't get enough of the male lead, the Executioner. He was addictive. He was flawed and dynamic, and it worked for me personally. His flaws were endearing, and his thought processes continued to be intriguing and complex.
I wasn't a huge fan of the female lead, Rosie. She kept pushing him away with harsh words far too much for my taste. I understand that she had a difficult past, and for a while I was sympathetic, but she didn't have to be so mean. She redeemed herself only at the very end for me. The rest of the story, I felt like the Executioner deserved better.
As for the plot, I liked it, but there were a few times when I got lost with all the potions, agencies, and connections. I'm glad I read it, and I would read more books by this author. Also, despite my strong emotions about the characters, I couldn't put the book down, so I definitely recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book through Pen Pinery and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I wasn't a huge fan of the female lead, Rosie. She kept pushing him away with harsh words far too much for my taste. I understand that she had a difficult past, and for a while I was sympathetic, but she didn't have to be so mean. She redeemed herself only at the very end for me. The rest of the story, I felt like the Executioner deserved better.
As for the plot, I liked it, but there were a few times when I got lost with all the potions, agencies, and connections. I'm glad I read it, and I would read more books by this author. Also, despite my strong emotions about the characters, I couldn't put the book down, so I definitely recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book through Pen Pinery and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes -
Stalker
Forced proximity
Paranormal
Touch her and die
Star review - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Review - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
[ARC REVIEW]
I really enjoyed reading this story it was once I couldn’t put down once I got into it, I loved reading about Enver and Rosarios story, it was one I would say read your trigger warnings first but the story overall was one that just drew you in, there is quite a bit of spice in it but I wouldn’t say it overpowers the story, it rather completes it.
I loved reading the development of Enver and Rosarios relationship as in the start there was some issues based on past experiences but Enver was one who didn’t give up easily and worked hard to prove himself to Rosario who in the end heals from the past with his help, both are characters you grow to love and sympathise with throughout the story, it is definitely a read well worth it, I look forward to seeing more work from the author!
Stalker
Forced proximity
Paranormal
Touch her and die
Star review - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Review - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
[ARC REVIEW]
I really enjoyed reading this story it was once I couldn’t put down once I got into it, I loved reading about Enver and Rosarios story, it was one I would say read your trigger warnings first but the story overall was one that just drew you in, there is quite a bit of spice in it but I wouldn’t say it overpowers the story, it rather completes it.
I loved reading the development of Enver and Rosarios relationship as in the start there was some issues based on past experiences but Enver was one who didn’t give up easily and worked hard to prove himself to Rosario who in the end heals from the past with his help, both are characters you grow to love and sympathise with throughout the story, it is definitely a read well worth it, I look forward to seeing more work from the author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story had so much potential, but I often felt like I started in the middle of the story and only later got the background information and context. Because of that, the timeline felt confusing at times, both for the world-building and the overall plot.
As the relationship progressed, the characters individual voices started to blur together. At certain points, it felt like they were speaking with the same personality rather than remaining distinct characters.
That said, I did enjoy the storyline and found the characters lovable despite their chaos. I genuinely think their relationship could have been incredible if the world-building and information had been presented in a clearer order.
I’m still intrigued enough to pick up the next book in the series, and I’m hoping for a stronger timeline and more structured background information moving forward.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the relationship progressed, the characters individual voices started to blur together. At certain points, it felt like they were speaking with the same personality rather than remaining distinct characters.
That said, I did enjoy the storyline and found the characters lovable despite their chaos. I genuinely think their relationship could have been incredible if the world-building and information had been presented in a clearer order.
I’m still intrigued enough to pick up the next book in the series, and I’m hoping for a stronger timeline and more structured background information moving forward.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2026
enjoyable!
I enjoyed this book very much. It’s a little different than what I am used to. I liked the world building and the quirky humour of the characters. The cynicism and intelligent inner dialogues of the characters were wonderful, I found myself smiling a lot.
The reason for the 4 stars (as opposed to 5), was because the FMC’s character was a bit unstable. She was sharp and intelligent but she treated the MMC at times pretty badly due to her insecurity. Which is understandable but at some point became exhausting. The MMC, also over the top, was a bit childish.
Also the smut, and there was a lot of it, was slightly “over the top” to a point they became cartoon characters in my head. Yeah, I know it’s all imagination, and I read dark romances too, yet this was a bit weird at times with some of the descriptions….
To sum up - good book, recommend. Looking forward to this author’s next book.
I enjoyed this book very much. It’s a little different than what I am used to. I liked the world building and the quirky humour of the characters. The cynicism and intelligent inner dialogues of the characters were wonderful, I found myself smiling a lot.
The reason for the 4 stars (as opposed to 5), was because the FMC’s character was a bit unstable. She was sharp and intelligent but she treated the MMC at times pretty badly due to her insecurity. Which is understandable but at some point became exhausting. The MMC, also over the top, was a bit childish.
Also the smut, and there was a lot of it, was slightly “over the top” to a point they became cartoon characters in my head. Yeah, I know it’s all imagination, and I read dark romances too, yet this was a bit weird at times with some of the descriptions….
To sum up - good book, recommend. Looking forward to this author’s next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While I appreciate an MMC who is devoted and unconditionally enamored with the FMC, this guy was beyond cinnamon roll. He is supposed to be this feared death machine, but was panting and whining for her attention, would wait obediently and roll over without any fight as she dismissed his shows of affection over and over, and pure groveling for her to even be in the same room as him. I kept screaming in my head for him to be a man and stand up for himself repeatedly. The book was a complacent stripping of masculinity as it continued. The way the FMC knew what her actions were doing and yet kept going made me have zero respect or interest in her well-being. I just could not get over this all and still enjoy the plot. I truly wish this were not the case.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗡️🧪🖤🐲
I absolutely devoured A Field Beyond Notions. Enver and Rosario had me hooked from the very beginning, and by the end I wasn’t ready to say goodbye.
Enver was everything I want in a MMC—obsessive, protective, devoted, and completely gone for his woman. Was he a little much sometimes? Sure. Did Rosie love every second of it? Also yes.
Beneath all the unhinged behavior was a love story that had me rooting for them from start to finish!!
I loved watching Enver and Rosie get the happy ending they deserved, but I still want more. More Enver. More Rosie. More Firestar!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🗡️🧪🖤🐲
I absolutely devoured A Field Beyond Notions. Enver and Rosario had me hooked from the very beginning, and by the end I wasn’t ready to say goodbye.
Enver was everything I want in a MMC—obsessive, protective, devoted, and completely gone for his woman. Was he a little much sometimes? Sure. Did Rosie love every second of it? Also yes.
Beneath all the unhinged behavior was a love story that had me rooting for them from start to finish!!
I loved watching Enver and Rosie get the happy ending they deserved, but I still want more. More Enver. More Rosie. More Firestar!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an f'd up, twisted, horrendously sweet, dark and abhorrently delicious, sweetly obsessing, compelling, and tantalizing read that I have ever come across. I was grotesquely captivated and enthralled with this story. I was intrigued by its premise. The genius way this author was able to conceptualize and write this dynamic and masterful work of art is beyond my ability to fathom. I am totally here for it. I need the actual physical book in my hand so that I can have it among my favorite reads. Like a guilty pleasure I don't even want to admit; like what? Something I never knew I never needed but don't care I now want to possess it!
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Is this book completely unhinged? Oh, absolutely. But did I love it? Without a doubt!
Enver is the most psycho golden retriever I've ever read, and somehow I still think he's adorable. And Rosario? I'll admit, I was worried at the beginning because it seemed like she wanted absolutely nothing to do with him. But then her POV came along? Oh, she matches his freak perfectly! They are so cute together. I love them! ^-^
P.S. Firestar is still my favourite. There's just something about cute pets, right? 👀
~ Thank you to Atria J. Merian and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own! ~
Enver is the most psycho golden retriever I've ever read, and somehow I still think he's adorable. And Rosario? I'll admit, I was worried at the beginning because it seemed like she wanted absolutely nothing to do with him. But then her POV came along? Oh, she matches his freak perfectly! They are so cute together. I love them! ^-^
P.S. Firestar is still my favourite. There's just something about cute pets, right? 👀
~ Thank you to Atria J. Merian and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own! ~
August 16, 2026
Gdybym oceniała tylko sercem dałabym 4 - bo naprawdę dobrze się na tej książce bawiłam. Niestety brakowało mi trochę więcej fabuły w tej książce - początek był ekstra, obiecywał coś w rodzaju "Asystentki złoczyńcy" dla dorosłych, ale potem samej ich relacji służbowej, jego pracy i późniejszej eskalacji było za mało, a za duży nacisk położono na smuty (niektóre trwały po kilkadziesiąt stron, przysięgam xd). Oboje główni bohaterowie czasami zachowywali się jakby mieli rozdwojenie jaźni i to nie tylko dlatego że włączali/wyłączali swoją "grę". Ogólnie mimo wszystko bardzo fajnie się to czytało więc to takie 3.5.
Review of advance copy
This book is my newest obsession. If you wanted Assistant to the Villain to be darker, this book is for you. Check the trigger warnings because this is truly a dark romance, not a lite version.
The MMC is absolutely unhinged. Not mainstream unhinged, like actually unhinged. The author did not pull any punches (literally) and that is why I loved the book so much. The plot sucked me in immediately, both MCs were a hot mess, and there was so much anticipation because I truly didn't know how far the author was going to push.
Thank you to BookSirens and Atria J Merian for the free eARC.
The MMC is absolutely unhinged. Not mainstream unhinged, like actually unhinged. The author did not pull any punches (literally) and that is why I loved the book so much. The plot sucked me in immediately, both MCs were a hot mess, and there was so much anticipation because I truly didn't know how far the author was going to push.
Thank you to BookSirens and Atria J Merian for the free eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review. Loved the ice queen and (unhinged) golden retriever god vibes. Really enjoyed the MMC’s inner narrative, some of his takes were hilarious. Author handled concepts of consent and boundaries within an interesting plot and context well. Loved the gothic atmosphere and adored the addition of Firestar! Would have liked to read more about the transition from obsession to love but overall, really enjoyed this book.
Review of advance copy
The world is intriguing and has a lot of potential, and the second part of the book was more enjoyable than the first, which was scorching hot but not a lot of insight into the background story.
Overall, it is well written and the story surfaces with a faster pace toward the end, followed by a HEA. I am curious enough to read the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall, it is well written and the story surfaces with a faster pace toward the end, followed by a HEA. I am curious enough to read the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This book did a great job of exploring changing characters through relationship dynamics and the support of chosen family. The magic system and world was new and a refreshing take on demons. The yearning of this MMC was top tier as was the banter between the MMC and FMC. I would absolutely love some spinoffs of the other characters in the main circle. I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This story had so much potential, but I found that there were a few things that stopped me enjoying the story as much. I wish there was more history. I want to know why a character makes a decision, why they act is a certain way. I got a bit lost on who's point of view I was reading from. I wanted more differentiation.
There were things I like about this book from the banter, how in sync the characters were, to how deranged and in love they became.
There were things I like about this book from the banter, how in sync the characters were, to how deranged and in love they became.
July 9, 2026
This book was a very spicy dark romance story. This book had alot of unexpected happening that made for a great read. This book had some grief in it but it was do to her past.The characters had different changing relationships dynamics and had great chemistry between them.If you love a great dark romance story then you should read this book. I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and I'm voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book.
August 29, 2026
I just wanna say that it’s the first book I read where longing is well executed! The “p-please”s were everything and very funny, cause you could tell the MMC was a mess after she said something nice to him. I reaaaally like that. .
Couldn’t like the FMC much though, so it was sometimes hard to finish this book (but here we are yeii)
Couldnt tell you one thing about the world building because, honestly, I didn’t get half of what was happening.
5/5 with the dialogues. I laughed so much.
Couldn’t like the FMC much though, so it was sometimes hard to finish this book (but here we are yeii)
Couldnt tell you one thing about the world building because, honestly, I didn’t get half of what was happening.
5/5 with the dialogues. I laughed so much.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this one.
I really enjoyed reading Rosie and Enver's story.
I found refreshing that the concepts of normality and morality were flexible enough.
Still, there were less likeable aspects both in FMC (somehow shallow at times) and MMC (unhinged) that leave a lot of room to growth.
Firestar is awesome!
I really enjoyed reading Rosie and Enver's story.
I found refreshing that the concepts of normality and morality were flexible enough.
Still, there were less likeable aspects both in FMC (somehow shallow at times) and MMC (unhinged) that leave a lot of room to growth.
Firestar is awesome!
July 15, 2026
Omg I loved this book. I never read a book from this author before, but I instantly loved the writing style. This book follows a crazy executioner and his alchemist. He falls first and hard. She uncertain to handle that. I loved the humor in the book. And the fact that underneath there is more to the main characters. Lets hope book 2 follows soon.
August 3, 2026
THE AUTHOR BLOCKED ME!!!!! I can’t have a kindle unlimited subscription since it is not available in my region, I can’t download the ebook for the same reason, and I can’t buy the paperback since it won’t ship! I messaged her on instagram asking her if there was any other way I could purchase the e-book on another platform and she blocked me. Please let me know what I did wrong???!!!
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