Red-Haired Ash Reads

Cody has given up hope of having a life of his own. He spends his days playing nurse to his dying, spiteful step-father and maid to his bully half-brother. His only escape is playing his favorite online fantasy game, Black Oasis, and talking to the monster under his bed who cares more about him than his own family.

This was a wonderful slow building romance with an adorable couple. Nor is a sweet demon who rescued Cody from a recurring nightmare and couldn’t resist coming back. Cody was a sweet kid who had been beaten down by his family. He wants a life of his own but doesn’t escape his situation out of fear and knowing that he is the only one who would actually take care of his step-father. I felt for Cody so much and just wanted to hug him so many times. 

Cody and Nor’s relationship was adorable and sweet. The dynamic between them was beautiful with Cody being kind and sweet and Nor being the strong and protective type, but still extremely sweet. While there are a lot of dark themes in this book, their relationship was just so sweet and perfectly balanced out the darkness. 

This is a fascinating world with an alternative world where demons live. I am very interested in learning more about the world and what the different kinds of demons can do. I am particularly interested in Lau and his backstory, especially since he gets so flustered by romance. 

Overall, this was a fantastic slow building monster romance that just sucks you in and keeps you hooked. I can’t wait to read the next book. 

TW: on page familial abuse and homomisic slurs; past childhood abuse and neglect mentioned; brief mention of MC questioning his mental wellbeing; non-graphic attempted sexual assault by a half-sibling (Chapter 23); mild gore; on page death of a parent 

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