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Tuck Me In
Surgically altered to become the most beautiful being alive, Marrow is set apart from all human interaction. But Bel survives on scraps, hoping to ascend the intellectual ranks of society to free herself from poverty. When Marrow and Bel meet, the world begins to unravel. In the end, the only thing left may be their love. Or perhaps…nothing at all.
From Ep 20
“What are you…doing?” Marrow asked, still holding me close to him. His heartbeat was steady and even, though I was certain mine was still blaring.I sniffled, the cloth of his shirt muffling my voice. “What do you mean, ‘what am I doing?’ You hugged me.”
“Forgive me, Bel, but I don’t know what that means.”
I pulled away, just enough to look up at him to see if maybe he was just playing the shitty comedian. But he seemed just as serious as always. I was beginning to think perhaps Marrow couldn’t tell a joke. Maybe he only ever told the truth, straight up, no chaser.
“You don’t know…what a hug is?” I asked. How could a human being make it this long without knowing what that means? Without giving or receiving one?
He shook his head, his long hair swaying around his shoulders.
Wonderful. Not only did I touch him, and without his permission, I have now molested him. I let all-the-way go, then, and stepped back. “ I am so, so, so sorry.” I slapped my hands to my cheeks. “I’m probably embarrassed enough to drop dead right now.”
“Please do not do that,” he said, moving toward me. “Please.”
I thought he would leave it at that, but he became visibly anxious, clenching and unclenching his fists, his breathing accelerating.
“Hey, hey. No,” I said. And I rubbed his arms. Because that’s how one person was supposed to calm another. “It was just a silly expression, Marrow. I’m not going anywhere. I’m not actually going to die.”
“People are removed because of me all the time.”
I blinked. “Oh.” I shook my head, trying to clear it. Trying to make it turn on. Like banging a tele set to make the picture come through. “I’m sorry. People die Here often as well. I guess I make it seem funny so it isn’t scary.”
“Explain the hug,” he said, changing the subject.
I grinned. “You put your arms around someone to show them you care about them. It helps them feel better.” I waggled my eyebrows. “Did you like it?”
With his chiseled face, in all his solemnity, he said, “It is the best thing that has happened to me so far.”
I blushed so hard. “A hug?”
“Hugging you.”
I choked, and my throat made a gurgling sound against my will. I smoothed rather sweaty hands on my jean shorts.
“Um…so…what are we going to do with you? You really, really can’t stay here. If Grits knew a Glimpse was walking around Dime Block, they would make a piñata out of you. And I don’t think you’re storing any candy in that torso, hombre.”
Marrow blinked. “What?”
“They’ll beat you with sticks until your insides come out. It’s a game kids play at parties.”
His eyes widened. He looked around as if the stick wielders were lurking behind junk piles.
From Ep 20
“What are you…doing?” Marrow asked, still holding me close to him. His heartbeat was steady and even, though I was certain mine was still blaring.I sniffled, the cloth of his shirt muffling my voice. “What do you mean, ‘what am I doing?’ You hugged me.”
“Forgive me, Bel, but I don’t know what that means.”
I pulled away, just enough to look up at him to see if maybe he was just playing the shitty comedian. But he seemed just as serious as always. I was beginning to think perhaps Marrow couldn’t tell a joke. Maybe he only ever told the truth, straight up, no chaser.
“You don’t know…what a hug is?” I asked. How could a human being make it this long without knowing what that means? Without giving or receiving one?
He shook his head, his long hair swaying around his shoulders.
Wonderful. Not only did I touch him, and without his permission, I have now molested him. I let all-the-way go, then, and stepped back. “ I am so, so, so sorry.” I slapped my hands to my cheeks. “I’m probably embarrassed enough to drop dead right now.”
“Please do not do that,” he said, moving toward me. “Please.”
I thought he would leave it at that, but he became visibly anxious, clenching and unclenching his fists, his breathing accelerating.
“Hey, hey. No,” I said. And I rubbed his arms. Because that’s how one person was supposed to calm another. “It was just a silly expression, Marrow. I’m not going anywhere. I’m not actually going to die.”
“People are removed because of me all the time.”
I blinked. “Oh.” I shook my head, trying to clear it. Trying to make it turn on. Like banging a tele set to make the picture come through. “I’m sorry. People die Here often as well. I guess I make it seem funny so it isn’t scary.”
“Explain the hug,” he said, changing the subject.
I grinned. “You put your arms around someone to show them you care about them. It helps them feel better.” I waggled my eyebrows. “Did you like it?”
With his chiseled face, in all his solemnity, he said, “It is the best thing that has happened to me so far.”
I blushed so hard. “A hug?”
“Hugging you.”
I choked, and my throat made a gurgling sound against my will. I smoothed rather sweaty hands on my jean shorts.
“Um…so…what are we going to do with you? You really, really can’t stay here. If Grits knew a Glimpse was walking around Dime Block, they would make a piñata out of you. And I don’t think you’re storing any candy in that torso, hombre.”
Marrow blinked. “What?”
“They’ll beat you with sticks until your insides come out. It’s a game kids play at parties.”
His eyes widened. He looked around as if the stick wielders were lurking behind junk piles.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2022
8 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Teshelle Combs
58 books572 followersTeshelle Combs is the award-winning author of books like The Underglow and the First Collection.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 29, 2022
Bel and Marrow are perfect examples of the haves and have-nots....but what they have doesn't apply just to materialistic items. Experiences, living life, common sense, street smarts are all things we can take for granted and not realize how someone can not understand them. This book gives you a different view of those elements (and many more) and keeps you engaged and invested to see just how things will unfold.
August 24, 2023
If you want to cry then this is the book for you. It’s a super exciting read that is hard to put down. This is a book that is going to stick in my mind forever. The characters have their own special places in my heart.
August 13, 2023
Book: Tuck me In
Author: Teshelle Combs
Highlights: dystopian, medical type, experimental, “for the great good”, altered reality
Favorite Character: Bel
Honorable Mentions: Marrow, Tianna and her mom
Character that grew on me: um none?
Favorite Scene: when they first stepped into New Orleans and understood our world from their view.
Overall thoughts: this book takes away everything else in the world and focuses on basic thoughts and needs. Makes you think about things for what they really are.
Star Rating: 5 out 5
Why: Tess is an amazing writer, she brings you into the story in a way that you can visualize every aspect. She delivers high highs and low lows, heartbreaking but leaves you craving more.
Predictions: I hope Bel is still alive and they are just “removing” her from his brain.
Author: Teshelle Combs
Highlights: dystopian, medical type, experimental, “for the great good”, altered reality
Favorite Character: Bel
Honorable Mentions: Marrow, Tianna and her mom
Character that grew on me: um none?
Favorite Scene: when they first stepped into New Orleans and understood our world from their view.
Overall thoughts: this book takes away everything else in the world and focuses on basic thoughts and needs. Makes you think about things for what they really are.
Star Rating: 5 out 5
Why: Tess is an amazing writer, she brings you into the story in a way that you can visualize every aspect. She delivers high highs and low lows, heartbreaking but leaves you craving more.
Predictions: I hope Bel is still alive and they are just “removing” her from his brain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2023
It's been a little while since I've read a dystopian novel and this was a great example of why I love them so much. I love jumping around the genres, mostly because I love variety but about a year ago I overindulged in dystopian novels and needed a breather.
This was a great, short, fast paced novel. The observations between the characters, particularly of each other and their ways of life were so sharp. The comments on our society were so raw and poignant, everything you could want from a dystopian thriller.
I wanted a bit more explanation at the end of the world and how it was unravelling, but listen, as the queen of the follow up question that's just how it goes.
This was a great, short, fast paced novel. The observations between the characters, particularly of each other and their ways of life were so sharp. The comments on our society were so raw and poignant, everything you could want from a dystopian thriller.
I wanted a bit more explanation at the end of the world and how it was unravelling, but listen, as the queen of the follow up question that's just how it goes.
August 7, 2023
I've only ever read books from the First Series by T Combs. This was a new kind of book from her (for me personally).
I liked it a lot. I enjoyed going into a different world with Teshelle Combs. Her mind is insane when it comes to world building, character development, and plot. Her books are usually quick, easy reads with lessons ready to be served. I still have a lot of questions and will probably reread the last few chapters again.
This book reminds me a lot of Big Brother or The Truman Show. The truth is out there but it's complicated and mysterious. I'd love more backstory about how this world came about.
I liked it a lot. I enjoyed going into a different world with Teshelle Combs. Her mind is insane when it comes to world building, character development, and plot. Her books are usually quick, easy reads with lessons ready to be served. I still have a lot of questions and will probably reread the last few chapters again.
This book reminds me a lot of Big Brother or The Truman Show. The truth is out there but it's complicated and mysterious. I'd love more backstory about how this world came about.
August 9, 2023
You'll never look at a taco the same way again!
Buckle up for this take on forbidden love. Teshelle builds this world so beautifully you'll want to go to the Here and There to help this couple fight to be allowed to love, to be allowed to feel, and even to have a taco every now and then. Bel is trying her best to leave the low-class life she was born into, her goal to aspire to a "Grade" (I interpreted this as a nurse/doctor). While training for this Bel meets Marrow, she isn't supposed to fall in love with him. When she does, they together tear apart this world and discover secrets that may have been better off if left buried.
Buckle up for this take on forbidden love. Teshelle builds this world so beautifully you'll want to go to the Here and There to help this couple fight to be allowed to love, to be allowed to feel, and even to have a taco every now and then. Bel is trying her best to leave the low-class life she was born into, her goal to aspire to a "Grade" (I interpreted this as a nurse/doctor). While training for this Bel meets Marrow, she isn't supposed to fall in love with him. When she does, they together tear apart this world and discover secrets that may have been better off if left buried.
January 24, 2023
If you want to close a book and find yourself asking why anything matters - read this book.
It will take you to the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. It will crack open your mind and heart and MAKE you think and feel.
I wish it had ended differently, but then, I like happy endings. This book has a more realistic ending, which is both powerful, beautiful, and upsetting.
I've read more by this author and stand by the statement that I LOVE her words! But reader be warned with this one.
It will take you to the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. It will crack open your mind and heart and MAKE you think and feel.
I wish it had ended differently, but then, I like happy endings. This book has a more realistic ending, which is both powerful, beautiful, and upsetting.
I've read more by this author and stand by the statement that I LOVE her words! But reader be warned with this one.
August 8, 2023
Beautiful Devastation
This book gave off The Giver vibes but ramped up the emotion and lessons by 1,000x. Be ready to have need for tissues, someone to give you a hug and to rethink your definition of how you feel about things we take for granted.
A hug will take on more meaning, getting tucked in will signify love, and beauty will take on dimension we never want to confront.
A devastatingly beauty depiction of what it means to be human. A must read for Bel and Marrow to continue living.
This book gave off The Giver vibes but ramped up the emotion and lessons by 1,000x. Be ready to have need for tissues, someone to give you a hug and to rethink your definition of how you feel about things we take for granted.
A hug will take on more meaning, getting tucked in will signify love, and beauty will take on dimension we never want to confront.
A devastatingly beauty depiction of what it means to be human. A must read for Bel and Marrow to continue living.
August 17, 2023
Heart-rending
One of the first Sci-fi / alternate universe stories I've read by Tess. Wow... that was the first word that came to me after finishing this book. Full of deep, emotional messages throughout that will really make you think and consider how we live life now. A beautiful love story that had me praying for a happy ending but also knowing deep down there couldn't be one. A great read.
One of the first Sci-fi / alternate universe stories I've read by Tess. Wow... that was the first word that came to me after finishing this book. Full of deep, emotional messages throughout that will really make you think and consider how we live life now. A beautiful love story that had me praying for a happy ending but also knowing deep down there couldn't be one. A great read.
October 21, 2025
This book breaks your heart in the absolute best way possible. If you want a story that gives you a good cry with tons of plot twists this is it. I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting. It’s so well written you feel so immersed in the world with the characters and every turn of the page brought something I never would’ve expected to happen. It absolutely destroyed me emotionally, and I definitely failed the challenge by crying and yeeting the book across the room
January 6, 2023
This book was not what I was expecting. The world building was phenomenal and the emotional havoc it subjected me to was a new experience. The disturbing reality that Marrow and Bel live in is a strange and new world to be sure. Even with this, it was easy to grow attached to the characters. The writing was phenomenal. If you don't need a HEA then this would be a good read for you.
January 14, 2023
Not at all what I was expecting. The concept of time and space is different in this world that Teshelle has built! She consistently shocks me with her world building! If you are okay without HEA’s then this book is for you! I was so ready and prepared for this book to go so much further than it did but shockingly I enjoyed the end that came!
January 17, 2023
wow
This book was so different from anything else I’ve ever read. I had no idea what was happening, could not predict what was gonna happen next, and god that was so refreshing! I cried, I laughed, I smiled and I was angry, all the feelings a good book should bring you. Highly recommend!
This book was so different from anything else I’ve ever read. I had no idea what was happening, could not predict what was gonna happen next, and god that was so refreshing! I cried, I laughed, I smiled and I was angry, all the feelings a good book should bring you. Highly recommend!
July 7, 2023
Heartbreaking
This book was such a whirlwind. I truly did not expect the way it went though I had guessed how it might end… it was such a good story and I’m mad that it just ends like that and there’s no more for me to read! This was different from what I normally read, but liked the almost sci-fi feel to it. Teshelle Combs is a master at what she does!
This book was such a whirlwind. I truly did not expect the way it went though I had guessed how it might end… it was such a good story and I’m mad that it just ends like that and there’s no more for me to read! This was different from what I normally read, but liked the almost sci-fi feel to it. Teshelle Combs is a master at what she does!
August 14, 2023
I can’t begin to explain the amount of connections I felt in this book. I saw myself in both Bel and ‘Row based on their upbringings. The story was beautiful and put a lot into perspective about the world and what’s important. But a heads up that there is no HEA in this one and I cried reading the ending.
August 24, 2023
I have never read a novel so fast until I started reading TCs novels, they are so captivating and couldn’t put them down. This one was no exception, the characters were so amazing and I couldn’t help but fall in love with Bel and Marrow (especially Bel). Be prepared to feel all the emotions though, but trust me it is so worth the feels <3
October 20, 2023
I'm not crying, there's just something in my eye. No seriously though! This book touched on every emotion you could possibly feel. You feel so attached and connected with the main characters, it's hard not to experience this book moment by moment. So sad yet beautiful. Another masterpiece woven by TC!
January 21, 2024
If you are wanting to read a story with a happily ever after, then this book isn’t for you. If you want a good cry, then this is it. The ending tore me a part. Even with all that I still loved this book and would recommend it to everyone. There is an underlying theme of capitalism and consumerism that you don’t realize till the end. Brilliant
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2025
Great read but read the challenge below.
Beware its a great read but there's a challenge.:
1. No throwing your book or kindle against the wall.
2. You can't cry not even a single tear.
3. No coming at the author after reading it.
This is the worst love story ever but I tend to like forbidden stories this is one.
Beware its a great read but there's a challenge.:
1. No throwing your book or kindle against the wall.
2. You can't cry not even a single tear.
3. No coming at the author after reading it.
This is the worst love story ever but I tend to like forbidden stories this is one.
July 7, 2023
AHHH! the feels!!!
Bel and Marrow🥰 A new fav couple.
A NEW FAV BOOK BF.
A NEW FAV BOOK!
THIS WAS SO GOOD. ALL THE FEELS. ALL THE SWOON. ALL THE SAD.
this gives me taylor swift folklore vibes 🥰
Bel and Marrow🥰 A new fav couple.
A NEW FAV BOOK BF.
A NEW FAV BOOK!
THIS WAS SO GOOD. ALL THE FEELS. ALL THE SWOON. ALL THE SAD.
this gives me taylor swift folklore vibes 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2023
Why my poor heart
Oh my heart! I should come to expect it now but I still go in thinking everything will be alright. I love all the books I've read so far and I look forward to finishing the rest Teshelle Combs has out.
Oh my heart! I should come to expect it now but I still go in thinking everything will be alright. I love all the books I've read so far and I look forward to finishing the rest Teshelle Combs has out.
August 9, 2023
Beautifully tragic story about 2 people who loved each other but was ripped apart for selfish reasons beyond their control. I love all the books I’ve read so far by Tess and I can’t wait to read more. Hoping for book 2 one day.
August 9, 2023
If you want HEA don’t read this book
It makes you certainly wonder why does anything matter
It makes you question every little thing, what was real and what wasn’t - often felt like I was going crazy trying to figure it out.
It makes you certainly wonder why does anything matter
It makes you question every little thing, what was real and what wasn’t - often felt like I was going crazy trying to figure it out.
August 20, 2023
It truly is the worst love story. I’m so blown away by this book it took me days before I could even write this. The meaning is profound the story is beautiful and crushing. It also makes me hate manipulation even more !!!
November 18, 2025
I passed the dare challenge and didn't cry!! However it does have a sad ending. Many twists and turns and amazing strong characters. I love how determined and smart Bellanueva is. I did have to reread the last chapter to fully wrap my brain around that ending. Great Novel and would recommend!!
January 4, 2023
Awe inspiring
This book made me cry and laugh and just altogether make me feel like I was in another world.I highly recommend this to anyone!!
This book made me cry and laugh and just altogether make me feel like I was in another world.I highly recommend this to anyone!!
January 14, 2023
I haven’t cried this much in a long time…
Oh wow, I don’t even know where to start. I’m still crying as I write this. This book has broken me in ways that I didn’t know I could break. Truly heartbreaking. In a way I wish I would’ve never read it. I haven’t cried this much since Me Before You. Beautifully written.
Oh wow, I don’t even know where to start. I’m still crying as I write this. This book has broken me in ways that I didn’t know I could break. Truly heartbreaking. In a way I wish I would’ve never read it. I haven’t cried this much since Me Before You. Beautifully written.
July 19, 2023
Very captivating!
TMI was a horrifically wonderful look inside life. The characters experiences broke my soul and left me wondering how far society will go to achieve greatness.
TMI was a horrifically wonderful look inside life. The characters experiences broke my soul and left me wondering how far society will go to achieve greatness.
August 8, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! I was hooked from the beginning. The way it ended took my breath away and left me wanting more.
September 9, 2023
This book was very interesting from start to finish. It kind of gives you a new outlook on life. I absolutely loved the characters from start to finish. Thank you so much for the arc.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews