The Demon of Beausoleil

by Mari Costa

A half-demon socialite-turned-exorcist and his disgruntled bodyguard have no trouble facing down the hordes of darkness—but facing their feelings for each other? Well now, that’s a whole different story . . .

Helianthes is a Cambion—a child born touched by demons. Horned, clawed, and tailed, Helianthes—Hell for short—is a devil-may-care exorcist whose devil-may-care attitude has succeeded in alienating those closest to him—all save for his long-suffering bodyguard, Elias, who sees him as less a strange, mythical being and more just a . . . nuisance.

Together, the two venture into the streets of this psuedo-remix of Victorian London to exorcise demons (and maybe cause a little mischief on the way). But as Hell becomes increasingly drawn to his enigmatic bodyguard—and as Elias becomes increasingly aware of his feelings for his trouble of a charge—the two find themselves faced with a growing, chaotic dark that might threaten everything they’ve been working toward . . .

A world of half-demons and the boys who love them await in this epic queer romance by writer/artist Mari Costa!

Genres: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Queer, Comics, LGBT, Adult, Demons

264 pages, ebook

Published October 18, 2021

About the author

Mari Costa is a luso-brazilian cartoonist and 2D animator. Her works include comics such as Peritale, Life of Melody and The Well by the House on the Hill. She specializes in lighthearted fantasy stories with LGBT themes.

Reviews

[Megan [At The Cottage] · Rating 4 out of 5]

MM Romance
Bodyguard/Demon
4 Stars ⭐️


This is a graphic novel comic and I enjoyed it tremendously. I loved the illustrations and art style and I absolutely adored the characters. This is about a half human, half demon and the bodyguard who falls for him. Hell, our demon, is kicked out of the house after he’s done some pretty shit things to his family and his dad hired a bodyguard, Elias, to look after him. Elias and Hell go on some exorcism quests meeting weird people along the way and all “hell” breaks loose. This was super entertaining and so cute. This is supposed to be on the darker side and I’m pretty sure I’m supposed to hate Hell but I could never!

My favorite part was all the bonus clips at the end. I’d totally read more by this author so thank you netgalley for the arc. I loved it.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️

The Demon Of Beausoleil was a fun, flirty and adventure-filled read.
I love a crazy mischievous character, and half-demon exorcist Helianthes, Hell for short, was just so fun to follow around.

“You know I need to be told I’m pretty by older men!”
“I’m four years older.”
“I know, but you’re such a daddy!”
“No money is worth this.”

I loved the dynamic between Elias and Hell, flirty vs stoic, lots of protectiveness, banter, a touch of jealousy.

A cute art style, a quasi-Victorian setting, dangerous missions and a sweet romance — I want more of all of this.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[greta · Rating 3 out of 5]

*3.5

this was a fun and sometimes freaky time haha. i didn't think this was gonna be as sexual as it was.

the characters were funny at times, especially helianthes! he made me giggle quite a few times with his sarcasm and wit.
the romance was also adorable 🖤

the world building wasn't too intricate or anything unique cos i feel like i've read a story like this before, but it's definitely perfect to read in october for halloween. a quick and spooky read is always fun!

[Raaven💖 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!

This started off strong and just kept going from there. Hell is someone you are supposed to hate. But I never did. It’s obvious there was pain and resentment in his actions. He is a messy character who I just wanted to hug. There was trauma in his life that he didn’t know what to do. He and Elias were obviously dancing around each other and they were so freaking cute! I also really loved the art. Hell is so expressive. Being a half demon and being called Hell must be really weird, though. But honestly that ending made me tear up. And I loved how Hell was able to reconnect with his family!! Elias was the force of good he needed in his life. I loved this story and hope the creator has more on the way!

[blok sera szwajcarskiego · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received an arc from NetGalley in exchange for honest opinion, thanks!

A cute and engaging story of romance and healing path from abuse between a half-demon exorcist and his bodyguard. As a long-time follower of Mari Costa over social media, I could recognise their style anywhere: soft and simple, but eye-catching. This also allowed me to recognise the forever beloved tropes of hers, which was nice to spot in the comic as well. I did enjoy the story of Helianthes and Ella's, although personally I think Costa works best in casual, slice-of-life type of scenarios, as proved with the extra chapters at the very end. As written in acknowledgements, it was supposed to be dark, sexy, a bit violent and nasty, and it lived to the expectations.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so fun! I'm currently in my Graphic Novel/Comic Era, and I'm especially reading queer ones. So I was very excited to get approved for this one on Netgalley, thank you!

First of all, I loved the illustrations and the drawing style!
The story and characters also captured my heart. I think Hell is supposed to be a bit unlikely, but I think you quickly realize that there is more to him and his actions under the surface. In combination with Elias, I just loved their dynamic and also Elias is like a big Teddy Bear.

The story also had me, it has action, but also it's quiet moments. I just love reading about demon stuff, and the concept of the book was really interesting. Hell is a Cambion, a demon born child and it's very rare to see grown-up ones, cause they are said to bring bad luck, so you kind of know what happens to them. He is up to some mischief but I still had sympathy with him, it's witty and I had alot to laugh!

I can only recommend it and hope you will have as much fun as I did reading it!

[toastie ʚ:ɞ · Rating 5 out of 5]

୨୧ The Demon of Beausoleil ୨୧
╰┈➤ [5 out of 5 ☆’s.]

❝𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮.❞

ʚɞ ⁺˖ ⸝⸝

I want to thank Oni Press & NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review! :)

ʚɞ ⁺˖ ⸝⸝

I LOVED this! 10/10 would recommend to others! I’m a big fan of graphic novels & there’s no better feeling than finding a great one that attaches itself to your soul (which The Demon of Beausoleil did effortlessly)! :’)

The art was gorgeous & I loved the color palate that was used throughout the novel. It helped to set the tone of things!

ʚɞ ⁺˖ ⸝⸝

Helianthes + Elias’ story is one that will stay with me for a longgg time. I finished TDOB a couple of hours ago and am already in the process of rereading it! I need more!

I hope that there’s a series in store for these characters (fingers crossed)! I would love to read more about their adventures (as well as their romantic — and personal — growth)! ~~

[Aila Krisse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful graphic novel about the adventures of Helianthes, a demonic changeling child of the wealthy Beausoleil family, and his bodyguard Elias. This really was just an absolute joy to read. The story strikes just the right mix of funny and heartfelt that makes for a compelling story. Helianthes is an absolute prick and just overall unpleasant person, yet you’ll still be left rooting for him (and his bodyguard ✨with benefits✨) by the end. The art is lovely and does a great job of telling the story. I especially loved how expressive the characters’ faces are. I just loved this, 10/10 no notes.
----
Many thanks to Oni Press for the ARC!

[Skirmantė · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This was such a fun read! The art style is amazing and fits the story perfectly. I loved the dynamic between Hell and Elias and their banter was so good. They play off each other really well, which made the story even more enjoyable. The pacing kept things moving, and I never got bored.

Oh and the bonus chapters were stunning!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Selling Pitch:
Helluva Victorian Exorcism.

Pre-reading:
She's lookin’ spooky. She’s lookin’ gay. Sign me up.

(obviously potential spoilers from here on)
Thick of it:
Oh, already obsessed with the art. It’s a little Hazbin.

This IS so Hazbin. I'm in love!

This is a disaster! Full Esteban Julio Ricardo Montoya de la Rosa Ramírez. Put some respect on his name.

“You know I need to be told I’m pretty by older men!” Girl, me too.

YOUR HONOR, I LOVE THEM.

I like all the body diversity.

“Your grand scheme is that you're horny and you hate men?” Preach. Oh, this book is so funny.

I'm obsessed with this.

He’s clearly saving his sister from a marriage she doesn’t want, but I love this. I’m obsessed. (He was not.)

I love the gender swapped parental roles it's so good.

Is this some weeping angel shit? Because down.

Oh no, he's hot. (Eh, hotter before he had eyeballs tbh.)

I AM OBSESSED WITH THIS.

A ME!

Okay, Hans. Okay, Ali Hazelwood.

Oh, I fear I’m obsessed with this. Put it on TV and give it to me right now.

I would die for the dog. The tongue blep!

YOUR HONOR, I LOVE THEM.

Requisite fantasy masquerade ball.

Incredible with people and clothes. Terrible with horses.

KITTY!

YOUR HONOR, I LOVE THEM. I AM GIDDY.

I hate that this is apparently gonna be a standalone because I would read 900 of these.

Ma'am, I will read anything you write.

Post-reading:
Obsessed is an understatement. They are so cutie. It is so funny. It is so well balanced with the main plot and family drama subplots. It’s got weightier issues neatly slotted in for you to read into. The art’s so charming. There’s excellent movement and expression to it. I think if you’re a fan of Hazbin, you'll love this. I'm only sad that it’s a standalone. I would read 100 more of these. I will definitely be picking up more of the author’s work!

Who should read this:
Hazbin Hotel fans
Disney fans
Queer romance fans

Ideal reading time:
Anytime

Do I want to reread this:
YES.

Would I buy this:
INSTANTANEOUSLY.

Similar books:
* The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich by Deya Muniz-graphic novel, historical, queer romance, camp
* Masters of Death by Olivie Blake-urban fantasy, queer romance, ensemble cast
* Hotblood! By Toril Orlesky-historical, urban fantasy, queer romance
* Mercy by Mirka Andolfo-historical, gothic, paranormal
* Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faedies by Heather Fawcett-light academia, historical, fantasy, romance
* The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love by India Holton-campy, light academia, historical, fantasy, romance
* Voidwalker by S. A. MacLean-campy, urban fantasy, queer, monster romance
* Nimona by N. D. Stevenson-graphic novel, historical, urban fantasy
* Third Shift Society by Meredith Moriarty-graphic novel, urban fantasy, mystery
* The Entanglement of Rival Wizards by Sara Raasch-urban fantasy, light academia, family drama, queer romance
* The Library at Hellebore by Cassandra Khaw-dark academia, urban fantasy, horror, queer
* The Secret Romantic’s Book of Magic by various-short story collection, urban fantasy, romance, light academia, queer
* The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim-myth retelling, urban fantasy, mystery, romance
* A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft-historical, urban fantasy, queer romance, mystery

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Frank Chillura (OhYouRead) · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does Mari Costa do it? Every one of her books are so different and distinct and yet, they could be sisters or cousins, because they have her artistic touch to make them family. I hope that makes sense. I can just tell a book is written by her, not only by the art, but by her very clear voice throughout the story.

The Demon of Beausoleil may actually be my favorite of her books to date. Born into a noble family, Helianthes is a half demon. He’s wild, unruly, and the rumors about him are true (sort of). His charm and charisma draws the men in, but it isn’t a curse that beds them. That’s just the lies they make up to find excuses for why they’ve slept with an “abomination.”

When he’s caught sleeping with his sister’s fiancé, his family finally says enough and disowns him. Telling him to get his belongings, get a job, and get out. But before he leaves, they assign him a new bodyguard, Elias. (His “curse” scared away all of the others)

So now this ex-noble half-demon and his stoic and silent bodyguard go on mini adventures sending demons back to hell. Which for someone who comes off frivolous and cavalier seems pretty admirable to me.

I loved that the slowburn between Hel and Elias took almost the entire book. It had to for it make sense, because prior to him, Helianthes was sleeping with every man within a stones throw. It also built up the friendship to be more withstanding than just a one night stand and once they finally declared their love for each other, his playboy socialite attitude all but went away. It was all for the plot, baby!!!

I know I can expect another Mari Costa book in a year, but that’s like really far away. I want more neowwwwwww!!! Please and thank you!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my eARC.

[Eve Rever de livre · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm quite surprised by what I've read. At first (and given how it starts), I thought to myself, “Where am I going with this?” But as time goes on, you realize certain things, you understand the place of the characters in the story, and a plot develops that becomes increasingly important and tragic.

I really enjoyed discovering this because it's vague at first, a little disappointing even, but then it becomes very interesting!
You become attached to the characters, who are completely different but who have certain things in common.

Reading this graphic novel is quite emotional, and the highlight is the ending, with “bonus” scenes about what happens next, which allow the story to be concluded properly. The questions are answered, the minor family issues are resolved, so you can really close the book.

Be warned, this is still an adult graphic novel that is quite explicit. In short, I really liked the drawings too, with the color palette that further enhances the impression of Gothic nobility. I will definitely read other works by this illustrator, as I loved the style so much.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to discover this title in preview.

[Kuu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

I really really enjoyed this! The art style is really nice, and I loved the relationship between the two main characters, as well as between them and the people around them. There's a lot that can be read into Hell's experience, whether that be queerness, disability, or other forms of marginalisation - his experience is likely to resonate with anyone who has ever been outcast for an inherent part of who they are. As a queer, disabled person, I definitely relate to the "born wrong" feeling Hell experiences and continues to have pushed upon him by his environment, as well as the desire to just "give up" and be (what is perceived by the majority public to be) bad. Quite a relatable, and somewhat touching, aspect that I didn't originally expect from a mutual simping gay demon graphic novel, especially as it started with a sex scene, which I thought would set the tone for this work (but didn't).

Definitely recommend this to anyone who doesn't mind seeing a butt every now and then.

[Shayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

This was so cute, despite the so many demons. It reminded me of that Wangxian meme with WWX standing above LWJ who is lying in a circle and is willing to do anything for his husband. That's the kind of dynamic this little half-demon and his bodyguard had. Helianthes was just doing anything to annoy Elias (and keep his attention on himself). I liked their adventures, their excercist quest, how they fought demons. It was so obvious they were into each other, but denying their feeling, because of their insecurities. I loved the love confession scene and that their dynamic didn't change after that much, Heli was still a brat and Elias was juts smitten with his antics.
I really liked the art style and the designs of the charachters.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.

I don’t think I’ve read any of Mari Costa’s work before, but the cover was intriguing and I’m so glad I gave it a chance. This is a very interesting world and I really liked Elias and Yanthe’s relationship. There’s some really good mutual pining and like mutual obliviousness. I especially loved the extra stories and Yanthe’s reconciliation with his sister. All in all a really great graphic novel with fantastic, interesting art.

[Kassu · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐

This was pretty tropey and predictable, but I was not bothered by that at all. It's chaotic gremlin with stalwart bodyguard navigating through demons and family drama. The story is pretty fast-paced, with flashbacks into earlier events.

I wish the book was longer. It's not terribly rushed now, but it could've been even more of a slow burn, and the demon cases definitely could have been more fleshed out.

The art is great, I love the expressions on the characters and the brown colour scheme is atmospheric.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Cam · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOOOOOVED the style of this graphic novel. The characters were funny, the dialogue witty and I read the whole thing in one sitting.
It's been a while since I liked a graphic novel this much. Hell is really charming and I absolutely loved Elias' pining, they were both so cute for one another.
The setting is also uite unique and I liked the magic system, even if I had trouble understanding it at first.
I loved the extras a lot, it really helped with the character development of Hell I'd say. Although I still wish that the plotline with Ash had been a little longer.
Hence, 4.5/5 rounded up!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about a demon that is raised by humans, because, well, he’s their son, and they don’t want to kill him. They are hoping, being raised correctly, that he won’t be evil.

And he isn’t so much evil, but he has his own ways of doing things, such as sleeping with his sister’s fiance, hoping that he will be caught by said sister, rather than telling the sister that he doesn't think her fiance is a good man for her.

His parents send him out into the world, to get a job, and he decides he is going to exorcise demons. His parents hire a body guard for him, to keep him safe, and they go out into the world, hunting demons.

The closest I could come with a comparison book, would be “Real Hero S**t,” by Kendra Wells. In that book too, the main character looked like a demon, though he was born of and raised by humans.

The thing about being part demon is that you don’t really care what the humans think. And Helianthes, Hell for short, just thinks of most humans as a means to an end. Nothing wrong with that. Hell is also in love with his bodyguard, which he is loath to admit, as is his body guard.
This is not so much a fun story, because there is a lot of bore, and fighting, and sex. The sex isn’t graphic, but it is often. And Hell prefers the men, as he put it.

I enjoyed this book. I’m sure having a demon run rampant is not everyone's idea of a good time, but it is a quick book, and we see, at some point, that he does have scruples, even if he doesn’t want anyone to know.

Thanks to Netgalley and Oni Press for making this book available for an honest review. This book will be published on the 27th of January 2026.

[Yen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this graphic novel! let me try to explain why

the art is beautiful, with detailed and gothic character designs and a minimal palette style that utilises colour contrast for clarity and effect. its a very easy reading experience, and their expressions and mannerism were SO good - the kind that's can convey more than words.

all the characters have brilliant depth, even the supporting cast. the chemistry between the main two characters had me squealing, and their banter and dialogue was sublime. you're in for a treat if you like the chaotic little gremlin and big buff stoic counterpart dynamic. my only other note here is that its a little sexual (not explicit), so I would be reluctant to recommend to a very young audience.

the plot is interesting and more complex than expected, yet flowed organically. a shunned part-demon exorcist and his bodyguard exorcises demons and maybe catches feels?? what's not to love? plus, it's one of those LGBTQIA+ stories where being queer isn't a plot device or the issue - thank you Costa for that. the extra stories and art at the end where we get to see the daily lives of the main characters after the conflict of the story is over was the cherry on the top.

I would recommend to anyone who likes fantasy, LGBTQ+, drama and romance. very cute

reading this felt like a real treat, I'm so grateful to NetGalley, Oni Press and Mari Costa for this eArc for my honest review

[James DeSantis · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I finished The Demon of Beausoleil, I walked away giving it a solid 3/5. What really made the whole graphic novel work was the main couple. Helianthes ("Hell"), the dramatic half-demon exorcist, and Elias, his long-suffering bodyguard, are just fantastic. Their romantic chemistry is the absolute best part of the whole book, it's this great slow-burn (Get it? Burn...cause demons?) where Hell is a fabulous mess and Elias is just trying to keep him alive. Seriously, the story works because of these two characters. On top of that, the art style is a huge win. Mari Costa uses a style that's simple but incredibly effective, giving the whole pseudo-Victorian London setting a great, distinct, moody tone that looks awesome.

The only reason it didn't score higher for me was the actual action side of things. I felt like the supernatural plotting was pretty meandering and often lagged, so I wasn't super invested in where the big mystery was headed. The humor, which mainly comes from Hell’s constant snark, was also pretty hit-or-miss, some jokes landed perfectly, but others just felt a little flat. Ultimately, while the plotting might not have been the strongest point, the fantastic dynamic between Hell and Elias, combined with the solid artwork, definitely make it a worthwhile read for more light hearted devlish adventure. .

[Mehsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good! Love the art (as expected), loved the characters, and there was so much more! That ending!

[Daria (altrimari_archive) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars

Helianthes of the noble Beausoleil family is a cambion: a human boy born with demonic traits — horns, sharp teeth, and a tail. It is extremely rare to encounter an adult cambion, as they often meet an early death by the hands of their own parents. Helianthes, however, grows up to become a charming, spoiled and lascivious young man.

After committing a grave offense against his family, he is disowned and cast out of his home. Forced to reflect on his mistakes, he must learn how to survive on his own… or rather, with the sole help of his stern bodyguard. The job he chooses? Demon exorcist.

From the very beginning, the story confronts us with the protagonist’s outrageous nature. Hell is introduced as a pompous bastard, while his bodyguard Elias is the poor soul forced to endure his every whim. Yet, Helianthes is far more complex than he appears.
Despite the genuine affection of his family, his appearance has condemned him to social ostracism. He grows up surrounded by disdain and abuse, and no good deed of his has ever been enough to prove that he is not a monster. Even the attraction many people feel toward him is dismissed as a “curse,” as if it were something impossible otherwise. It is therefore no surprise that, at some point, Helianthes gave in to others’ prejudices, embracing the role they have forced upon him: when his hope ended, so did the pain.

Elias, however, sees beyond the mask. During their wild adventures, the two men grow closer and closer, as if drawn together by an invisible red thread. Their love story is initially conflicted, but grows oh so tender.

"The Demon of Beausoleil" is a gripping queer graphic novel: once I started it, I simply couldn’t put it down. It blends irony, depth, and tenderness into a winning combination.
The characters are three-dimensional and compelling, both in their design and personalities. I loved Hell from the very start — he is as blunt as he is fragile. You can’t help but root for his redemption and his happiness.
I had never read anything by this author before, but I will definitely be catching up on her other works!

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Tonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite reads of 2024 was Shoestring Theory by Mariana Costa, so when I saw she has two graphic novels and a queer fantasy rom-com coming out in 2026, I was thrilled! One of the graphic novels, The Demon of Beausoleil, is being published early next year, and I was extremely happy to get an early look at it!

The graphic novel is about a Cambion, who goes by the name Hell. He's the son of nobles who works as an exorcist and is being assisted by his bodyguard, Elias.

Hell is a mischievous trouble-maker, and Elias is very no-nonsense. Both are messy, flawed characters (especially Hell) with complicated emotions. As the two work together to exorcise the demons of their city, they stumble into a plot that leads them to examine who they are and what they mean to each other.

I adored both characters, and I thoroughly enjoyed the character and relationship growth. The plot is fun, silly, dark, and surprisingly touching. There's a theme of trauma and how being othered can affect someone's life in profound ways that I found to be very moving.

This is set in the Victorian era and has some Gothic touches. We follow the two on a few different cases and see them battle different demons. The lore is easy to understand, and some violence and sex scenes give this an edgy vibe.

The art is sepia-toned, with pops of red coloring. It felt creative and unique compared to the other graphic novels I've read, and I really liked the style.

I'd recommend this most to readers of graphic novels who love Gothic and paranormal romances. Fans of books such as Running Close to the Wind and Yield Under Great Persuasion by Alexandra Rowland, where one character is (relatively) normal and the other is a chaotic gremlin, will almost certainly love these two!



* I received an advanced copy of this book for free, thanks to NetGalley & the publisher. *

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has got to be one of my favorite titles NetGalley has ever sent me, and I’m going to have to get a physical copy when it comes out, the cover is absolutely gorgeous.

From the very beginning, this book was just fun. I was fully engaged the entire time, enjoying myself and thinking, “okay, this is cool”. The plot itself is more balanced and character-driven than fast-paced which works perfectly for this story.

Helianthes and Elias were such a refreshing pair. They don’t fall into the same tired tropes I see over and over again in fantasy romance, and they genuinely felt like three-dimensional people. Helianthes in particular hit one of my favorite character types: the full-on nuisance. A menace to society who seems to delight in pushing buttons. At the start, it’s mostly Helianthes poking and provoking while Elias refuses to take the bait and then, as the story goes on, Elias starts giving it right back.

As their dynamic develops, that antagonistic energy naturally softens into something warmer and more tender, without losing the playful edge. And Elias pining? Absolutely delicious. Loved watching him fall.

One unexpected highlight was realizing the author is Brazilian, which made it such a delightful surprise when Elias suddenly started speaking Portuguese. I almost never encounter Portuguese “out in the wild” but the cursing took me out: “filho da puta, I fucking hate demons” 😂😂😂

I also really loved the art style. Helianthes is supposed to be this alluring half-demon, but instead of being designed to be conventionally “hot,” his design leans more towards cartoon-network imp than seductive demon. And that choice works beautifully. He’s alluring because he’s magnetic because of who he is, not what he looks like, which I found genuinely refreshing.

Overall, this book stands out among other fantasy romance titles because of how interesting its characters and their dynamic are. I’d highly recommend this to anyone looking for a fun queer story, especially if you’re tired of reading the same kinds of things and want something that feels new.

[Rhiley Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Edelweiss for the E-ARC! This E-ARC was sent to me in exchange for an honest review.

A highly unique premise!
A queer half demon working as an exorcist with his irritating (but oh so desirable) human bodyguard, going on jobs throughout a fantasy-style Victorian London to exorcise pesky demons. All the while there's a few underlying plots happening behind the scenes that keep the intrigue while you're reading.
I loved the romance! I loved how you're pulled in and love both the love interests immediately, even when they annoy each other and argue. They had such palpable affection and longing. Both of them think they can't have the other for an entirely different reason and it all gets muddled and fuels their irritation, but it does get resolved in a beautiful way.
The ending as well was splendid. Not only the resolve of all the plot points coming together into one, but also the extra stories we got AFTER the end. They really added something substantial to the book. I loved that the author added them.
The family dynamics were interesting. I liked that they were complicated and flawed, but that everyone was truly only trying their best. Everyone in Helianthes' family was looking out for each other in their own strange ways, even when they went about it in the worst possible ways. Even Helianthes himself does some things he's not proud of regarding his family, but he's fueled by trauma and protectiveness towards his loved one's.
Through all of the layers and plots, this was an incredibly binding story. The art style was lovely, full of sharp lines and precision. The characters were flawed but evidently full of heart.
An outstanding graphic novel!

[Madd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I love me a good graphic novel, and this was a great one!!

The pros: First off, I love the art style. No notes, lol. As for the story, I like the pacing of the information we're given - we're usually learning along with Elias, which is nice. I liked the overall themes and the ultimate villian, and I really liked the bonus epilogue comics showing what happens later and how bridges are mended and so on :> Beyond that, I loved Helianthes and I loved Elias and I loved their relationship and AUGH. Them. I love them. Obviously they're both very strong individually, and I found them very consistent while still growing. I just had a great time with this!!!!

The cons: Honestly I don't think I have much negative to say! I wish it was a little longer, that we saw a little more development in Helianthes and Elias' relationship, especially during those six months between being disowned and the start of the story. But I could say that about most graphic novels that I read - I always wish I had a little more! The only other thing is that I wish the coloring was a little more consistent. It's not in color, per se, but for example, there's a character we meet who usually has his skin colored in, but every now and then there's a random panel where he isn't, often on the same page as panels where he is. It's just a little odd, and while obviously I can understand changing how someone is colored/drawn for dramatic effect or with lighting, but these seemed to be pretty random and without purpose.

[Nikolaj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the ARC of this book, I had a great time reading it!

This one is a 4 1/2 for me, rounded up to 5 stars, and I loved every minute of reading! The art was simple, yet perfect for the story and very clear; there were no points at which I was wondering what was going on in any panel, and the character designs and expressions fit really well with their personalities. The story itself is interesting, and the flashbacks actually did lend themselves to the story, however that was the one thing that I did occasionally get a bit confused about at first, as there was no change to the art style or color palette, except that the page surrounding it was black, rather than white for flashbacks. I only wish that there was a little bit more of a visual cue for when the flashbacks were happening. That aside though, the story was fun and light, while still having some emotional weight to it, and kept me engaged through the characters. That said, it's a very character driven and plot-light story, so keep that in mind, if you prefer a bit more plot.
The character chemistry is what really shined for me, because even though you know early on who's going to be falling for whom, the chemistry felt really well done and convincing for the love story being told. Honestly I'd read ten more volumes of this, even if it's a standalone.
Definitely give it a read, I loved it!

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helianthes is a devil-may-care exorcist who also happens to have been born touched by demons. He has horns, claws, and a tail, and an attitude that has him alienated even from his loving family. The only one still around is Elias, his bodyguard and reluctant helper in the exorcism business. As they face ever more dangerous missions, they'll be forced to face their true feelings and the demons of their past.

It's both super fun and a little heartbreaking. Helianthes is in pain, so he hurts others before they have a chance to hurt him. It's at times fun, at times sad, always a great read. The interactions between him and Elias are the best of the grumpy/sunshine dynamic, where you know their fighting is just them working up the courage to admit their feelings. Each of their cases is distinct enough that it doesn't feel like we're threading through familiar territory, and then we get to the adorable epilogue chapters, and I need more of this world and characters.

I really liked the art. It works perfectly with the story, with a style that works for the serious moments as well as it does for the fun times when expressions and silhouettes get exaggerated and funny.

Seriously, I would keep reading 100 random chapters of Elias and Helianthes going about their exorcism business and being with their families.

Delighted thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for the early read of this delightful story!

[Katharine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a compelling story that has strong character building and decent world building. One of the main characters, Helianthes, is something called a "Cambion". A child that has been tainted by demonic influence, with horns, claws, and a tail. Normally, these children are killed in infancy, but Helianthes' parents let their son live and raise him the best that they can. When he is in his early 20s, and after a streak of extremely poor behavior, his parents cut him off and send him to survive on his own. Of course, not by himself. They send a bodyguard with him, named Elias. Helianthes becomes an exorcist who specializes in demons and demonic activity, and Elias continues to be his bodyguard. Helianthes is an interesting character because on the surface, he seems like a spoiled rich brat. But as the story goes on, you learn exactly why he has been behaving as he has. The relationships are interesting and slowly build up into something satisfying. You also learn some of the world as the story goes on, but it never goes into too much detail when it's not relevant to the plot. I also really enjoyed the art! It fully matches the tone, and there's just something about it that's so eye-catching.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Susanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helianthes Beausoleil is a half demon. His parents have doted on him nonetheless, but he’s mostly living outrageous life. His latest antic, sleeping with his sister’s fiancé has been the last straw though and he’s been disowned. Instead of getting a proper job, he’s working as an exorcist. It’s a dangerous job, but he has his loyal bodyguard, Elias, by his side.

The story follows the pair at their job. It’s dangerous and seldom goes as planned, but Helianthes never loses his optimism, and Elias always supports him. Little by little, the pair develop feelings for each other, not that either of them intends to do anything about it.

This was delightful. It’s meant to be violent and dark, but Helianthes’ antics as a devil-may-care half-demon were fun to follow, and Elias as his stalwart, long-suffering companion was his perfect pair. The romance was really cute. For all that the book has a couple of not too graphic sex scenes, there are none between the two of them. There were several really fun extras that depict their life afterwards. Art was excellent, but the mostly sepia tone would’ve needed some spots of colour here and there to really pop out. I would’ve read more, but it really works as a stand-alone.

I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.