Hellbound

by Stephanie Binx

Dying is all in a day’s work for a Hell-diver like Marian—until a routine round-trip to the afterlife goes wrong—for fans of The Wren in the Holly Library and TV’s Lucifer.

Hell is empty, and all the devils are here, but nobody knows why—not even the devils themselves. Now, sadistic demons roam the earth, offering small fortunes to any mortal sucker dumb or desperate enough to die on their behalf as they retrieve artifacts from a Hell they can’t recall. Washed-up journalist Marian Meyer is one of those mortal suckers dying for a living as she fetches clues for a demonic puzzle that she doesn’t care to solve.

Riddled with debt she'll never be able to pay off and guilt over her mother's death, Marian made her first lucrative deal with a demon and never looked back. Never mind that being a Hell-diver means that she must voluntarily drown herself—or that the human body wasn’t meant to die more than once—and she’s definitely feeling it.

Unfortunately, the last time Marian went to Hell, she came back wrong. Memories of that night are missing, and she'll do anything she can to find them, including teaming up with one of her mysterious (and oddly alluring) demonic patrons, Mr. Vale. But when their tenuous alliance thrusts Marian even deeper into a world of betrayal, humans with strange powers, and demonic politics, she’ll have to decide if allying with Mr. Vale is her ticket to freedom or damnation in disguise.

One part slow-burn romance and one part acerbic wit, Hellbound is a dark, romantic contemporary fantasy perfect for readers who prefer their casts morally grey and the stakes sky-high.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Horror, Dark Romance, Contemporary, Paranormal Romance

352 pages, Paperback

Expected publication August 25, 2026

About the author

Stephanie Binx is a great big nerd who loves video games, horses, ghost stories, and morally gray love interests. Her mission as an author is to bring chaos and romance together in strange, dark matrimony. She lives with her son, spouse, and their two needy cats in the Pacific Northwest. If she’s not writing, then she’s probably backpacking with a loud dog, or running a dungeon with her friends in the MMO du jour.

Reviews

[Shasta Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a feeling I would love Hellbound, but I didn’t know that I would be become OBSESSED. Huge thank you to NetGalley, Alcove Press and the author for allowing me to have an ARC!

Hellbound is action packed - there is hardly any time for our main character, Marian, to take a breather. You understand her desperation in making insane deals and jumping to her death (literally) over and over again, because she has the world on her shoulders and needs a BREAK. You root for her immediately, but Marian is not exactly likeable. In fact, she’s prickly and sardonic, but she is also true to her word and will not kick someone while they’re down. I loved her!!!

The world building in this urban fantasy is unlike one I’ve read before: there are elements of fae legends and Dante’s circle of hells plus a sprinkle of crime syndicates. I was impressed with the creativity and richness, and never felt bored as I learned more about Vale and his legacy. There is a romance but this isn’t a love story, either, and that keeps the story’s universe at the center.

One thing that tends to plague fantasy novels with several action sequences is too much telling and not enough showing, or characters just describing what the reader should infer. Binx does a great job of letting us see and feel the action and the story through her characters’ eyes without them mouthing off every single detail. I really appreciated this in the writing!

I hope this book finds its fandom because it deserves the hype! Looking forward to my preordered physical copy this August!

[Mella aka Maron]

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC. Unfortunately, I can’t keep going because I am so beyond annoyed and tired.

DNF at 60%.

Here we have an interesting idea with a mediocre execution. The writing style itself is very easy to read while still taking dark undertones in plot elements.

My personal frustrations lie in the world building and the characters.

Namely… there is no word building. The reader gets a little prologue and suddenly it’s two years later and our MC already knows everything about the world. She doesn’t explain it to the reader. We have to learn by viewing and it’s infuriating as someone who wants the why behind things. It’s like… if you got a new job and you had to learn by watching someone else perform the job but you were not allowed to ask why they did certain things. Like, “why did you push that button before that one?” That’s what this was. You watched things happen and nothing is really explained. No lore, no context, just someone saying “the Remnant” and the reader having to infer over multiple chapters of clues wtf it’s supposed to be and why people are afraid of it. 😂 [Right before I DNFed, at 59%!!!, we get the lore/world building. Imo, it’s WAY too late for this and I was so annoyed by this “reveal” that I decided I’m out.]

The characters. 😐 Our FMC is pretty bland? I don’t even know how to describe her because she doesn’t… have a presence. 😂 Yet everyone is suddenly after her. She constantly gets anxious and depressed over the idea that she killed her mother even though it was two years ago and she hated her. 🙃

The MMC honestly just needed more spotlight. He had maybe two very brief scenes in the first HALF of the book. And there is some “existing” relationship between the two MCs that we aren’t privy to that just infuriated me… I want to see them falling, not be told he’s obsessed with her.

The side characters were okay. I didn’t need that much Tori, tbh. She was not that great. 🤷‍♀️

Honestly, I do believe both the world building and characters could have benefited from NOT having that two year time skip. We could have learned the world with our FMC. We could have seen interactions between the FMC/MMC and felt their attraction grow. And the FMC’s grief and guilt would have made way more sense if it was still fresh and raw. It was a missed opportunity. 😭

All in all, I’d only recommend this to people who don’t want the why behind the actions and people who don’t really need to feel the characters falling in love. If you are easily able to accept what the author tells you and want to wait for almost 2/3 of the book for the explanation, you might be able to enjoy this.

[Grace Morrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book literally grabbed me by the shirt and refused to let go. It will forever live rent free in my head. If you're wanting hot demons, badass MC's, and a world you can easily fall into (or be dragged into), this is for you!

Official Blurb:
"Dark, twisted, and utterly addictive. Hellbound is an intoxicating story full of grit, resilience, and hellish feats. Stephanie Binx has expertly crafted a story that wraps you in its shadows and refuses to let go. With an MC who won't back down without a fight, and an infuriatingly hot demon stalking the pages, a trip to down to Hell has never been so fulfilling." - Grace Morrow, author of We Become Darkness

[Rosie J. Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y’all… I don’t know where to start with this book. My general response to it since the first time I read it has been *feral screeching* but that doesn’t give anyone else a true picture of how absolutely amazing Hellbound is. Binx has crafted an utterly intense, delicious debut that might make you clutch your pearls but will definitely grab you by the throat (with some big, sexy demon hands).

I feel blessed by the bisexual disaster goddesses to have read Hellbound for the first time before Binx had even signed with her agent. When I finished that version I sat with my feelings for a few moments before I turned to my partner and said “it’s truly amazing to get to read something before most everyone else and just know it’s going to go somewhere one day.” And I am thrilled that I can now enthusiastically screech about Hellbound to anyone who will listen.

I recently re-read the updated ARC, and while different in some ways from the original story, it captures, and even amplifies, all the grit and cosmic horror and despair and definitely the sexual tension (that tension is tensioning) of the original. Not to mention the twist that you likely won’t see coming. Couple all of that with a shadow daddy (Mr. Vale) who has stayed with me longer than any other similar mysterious immortal male lead has since I first met Jericho Z. Barrons in Karen Marie Moning’s Fever series (IYKYK) and a whole cast of misfit characters you’re going to want more of (except Greg. F*ck Greg), and you have a recipe for a book that will linger with you and that you’re going to want to read again and again.

Marian is a perfect lead for 2026 in all of her chaotic glory (although she’d rebut the glory part and the perfect part), just trying to survive in the dumpster fire she’s been forced into and doing what she can to claw her way out, including dying at the hands of Mr. Vale to retrieve artifacts from Hell for exorbitant sums of money that don’t even put a dent in her debt. I think a lot of people will relate to Marian’s situation, because Binx has skilfully crafted a commentary on greed in capitalism, religious trauma, and living in survival mode while struggling with mental illness, all wrapped up in a gritty, urban fantasy package with a Mr. Vale cherry on top (and a side of Pop-tarts for dessert). And while Marian and Vale have their own weird romance, Marian’s true HFN (happy for now) comes from the found family she gains along the way, helping her learn her self-worth and showing her she’s not actually alone in this world.

If I could give this 10 stars I would. Thank you to Binx for creating this masterpiece that I still think about regularly. I cannot wait to read what you write next.

Thank you to Stephanie Binx, NetGalley, and Alcove for an ARC.

[Sasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hellboundis an action‑packed dark urban fantasy that follows Marian, a helldiver who repeatedly drowns herself to retrieve rare artifacts from hell for demons who can no longer remember the place they came from.

The helldiver concept was what initially drew me in, and the worldbuilding largely delivered on that promise. The pacing of the revelations about hell, demons, and the mechanics of Marian’s work was excellent, and the novel offers a genuinely fresh take on the underworld. It’s one of the most unique interpretations of hell I’ve read in a while.

Marian - and the side characters around her - evolve at a steady, believable pace. What stood out most was the portrayal of severe depression. It’s dark and gritty, but also raw in a way that mirrors what those moments actually feel like. It doesn’t sensationalize her experience, nor does it soften the edges. It simply lets her be as she is, and it doesn’t magic away her depression by the end.

Some of the plot twists were predictable, though this didn’t significantly diminish my enjoyment. The ending was fine, but it left me wanting more - not disappointed, just wishing the story had pushed a little further.

Where the book struggled for me was in the sheer number of plot threads introduced. Because the story is set in the modern world, we avoid the typical early‑book worldbuilding overload that fantasy often brings. Instead, the overload arrives through an abundance of plot threads. Many of them were genuinely interesting, but they didn’t receive the attention their setup seemed to promise. Several were tied off quickly and quietly, which felt like a disservice - both because they had been built up as more significant, and because I struggled to see the purpose of including so many in the first place.

I would have preferred spending more time exploring certain aspects of the worldbuilding - for example, travellers and their abilities - and giving the remaining plot threads more meaningful space to breathe.

Ultimately, I felt that several of the theories I had about where the story might go would have made for a more compelling direction, and that’s not something I often find myself thinking.

All of that said, I genuinely believe this is a book urban and paranormal fantasy readers should judge for themselves. I can easily see it resonating more strongly with others than it did with me.

Thank you to Alcove Press and Netgalley for the ARC. The thoughts above are my own.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

A book about people dying temporarily to dive into a strangely empty hell to retrieve artifacts for demons? Obviously I had to grab it and read it, and for the most part this book delivers: Hell is a strange shifting nightmare setting, made even more eerie by the lack of actual inhabitants. The demons think they were all banished to the mortal world, but they don't remember either, which is why they're willing to spend exorbitant amounts of money on "divers" to temporarily die and retrieve artifacts to try and trigger their memories. Enter our protagonist: Marian, a former journalist who is guilt-ridden over the death of her mother and has survived the Remnant, the only monster that haunts the depths of hell, and is attracting all sorts of notice from the demons, from the mysterious Mr. Vale to the influencer hellish girl boss Veridian.

Marian is a mess of a MC, and I say that with love. It definitely works for the novel as you watch her fight against her own self-loathing and depression and self-sabotaging behaviors to try and piece together what happened to her and protect her friends, but it's also frustrating sometimes. Namely, Marian keeps protesting that she doesn't kill people, even after she definitely has (in self-defense but still), and it keeps coming to bite her again. Still, for the most part, she's a tough protagonist who dives deep into Hell, and even if she's reluctant to accept her pact and the battle ahead, when push comes to shove, she'll do the right thing.

The character that definitely steals the show though is Mr. Vale. Mysterious, controlling, alluring, and seemingly all-knowing, Vale controls nearly every scene he's in, and his chemistry with Marian is palpable. The smut between them is hot, and while personally I thought it was obvious that Vale was Death all long, I enjoyed the reveal still. Their relationship makes the novel, even when the pacing stutters and drags to some extent in the middle.

The novel careens to its climax at the end, and I feel like there should have been more time exploring the actual mythos and the truth behind Vale and the other demons, but for the most part, this is an exciting and unique novel, and everyone should check it out.

[Lezlie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4

Hellbound is the kind of book that constantly made me question what I thought I understood. Just when I felt like I had a grasp on the story, another piece of the puzzle shifted my perspective.

I’ll admit that urban fantasy isn’t typically my go-to genre. I often struggle with stories where the fantastical elements feel like they don’t quite fit within the world that’s been built. Hellbound, however, never had that problem. Instead, it created so many intriguing possibilities that I found myself wanting to explore every corner of its mythology.

What initially appears to be a story about demons, Hell, and a dangerous artifact becomes something much larger. I really enjoyed the way Binx explored themes of memory, identity, grief, forgiveness, and what happens when beings try to defy the natural order of life and death. The worldbuilding is ambitious, and I appreciated that the story doesn’t give easy answers about who is good or evil. Instead, it asks readers to sit with the uncomfortable gray areas and question whose version of the truth we trust.

Marian was a character I found myself rooting for throughout the story. Her journey is not an easy one, and I appreciated that her trauma and healing were treated as complicated rather than something that could be neatly resolved. Vale was also a fascinating character because my feelings toward him shifted so many times. The more I learned about him, the more I found myself reconsidering my first impressions.

My biggest struggle with the book was the pacing and plot opportunities, especially in the final portion. There were so many major revelations and emotional moments that I wanted more time to sit with them, but the story moved quickly through some of its biggest turning points. It introduced so many compelling possibilities that I wanted to see them explored further. After spending so much time building its mystery and mythology, a number of plot threads and character arcs were wrapped up with neat, bow-tied resolutions that felt far less complex than the questions the story had raised. Because of that, the ending felt rushed and ultimately a bit underwhelming after such a build-up.

That being said, I still admire the ambition behind Hellbound. It’s a story that takes big swings and explores fascinating questions about mortality, memory, forgiveness, and what it means to be human. While I wished the final act had given its biggest moments more room to breathe, I think there were elements I thoroughly enjoyed.

Fans of urban fantasy who enjoy peeling back layers of mythology, unreliable truths, and morally complex characters will likely find a lot to love. It’s definitely a book you have to pick up and experience for yourself to decide where you stand.

Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Eternity's Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you to Stephanie and Alcove Press for the ARC copy of this book. I am leaving this review for free and completely of my own thoughts and opinions.

Hellbound is a dark and gripping tale that sinks it's hooks into you and does not let go. I never quite knew where this story was going to take us and that made it an extremely compelling read because you just need to keep going to see what is going to happen next. The entire book beautifully showcases both humanities desperation and greed and also it's resillence to be good in the face of darkness and despair.

This book is a real reflection on a captalistic nightmare made real in terms of how people view these demons and the lengths some of them go to, and the things they do for them, to get themselves into a better position in life.

Stephanie does an amazing job of transporting the reader to Hell and it honestly is one of those books that would translate extremely well to live media, I spent so many of the scenes in this book thinking to myself how cool it would look in a TV show.

Marian was a joy to be in the head of through this book because she is a complex, deep character who is brought to life with her deep rooted insecurities and anxieties and also her strong will. The way her emotions were conveyed in this book were so realistic, anyone who has actually suffered with deep depression or anxiety is sure to be able to relate to some of the things Marian goes though.

Mr Vale has shot up there on my list of favourite MMC's. His dry, acerbic wit was great to read. His tender care of Marian, while understanding her boundaries and knowing when not to push was great and their back and forth banter was so fun.

The side cast of characters were all unique and interesting and seeing the slowly blossoming friendships was a nice off-set to the darker parts of the book.

Overall, this is a fantastic darker urban fantasy romance book and an extremely strong debut novel.

[Kellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of Hellhound in exchange for an honest opinion. Thank you Stephanie for this really good read!

Hellbound brings us into the world of Marian Meyer, who is working as a hell diver. As a hell diver, she voluntarily drowns herself to retrieve artifacts from Hell for demons. Things took a turn when she teamed up with a demon, Mr Vale, to help him retrieve a key.

What stood out to me most was the worldbuilding. The concept of hell divers was refreshing and surprisingly immersive. Through Marian's dives, we gradually learn how Hell operates, why divers are mysteriously dying, and the different roles involved in carrying out these dangerous expeditions. The information is introduced at a steady pace, making the world easy to understand without feeling overwhelming.

Mr Vale also caught my attention with his witty banter and dynamic relationship with Marian. He shifts between being cold and detached to awkwardly trying to make amends when Marian challenges him on his behaviour, which made his character development enjoyable to watch. By the end of the novel, I found myself invested in their slow-burn romance and appreciated that it developed naturally alongside the main plot. If you love the TV show Lucifer (which I absolutely do), you will definitely find Mr Vale a very likeable character.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. My only gripe was that the ending felt slightly rushed, with several concepts introduced rather suddenly and a few lingering questions I had were left unanswered. However, this did not significantly affect my enjoyment of the story and I understood that there was meant to be a second book.

I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy dark fantasy, demon romances, witty banter, and slow-burn relationships set against a relatively dark environment. Fans of Lucifer will likely appreciate the characters and world building here.

[Merlyn Fereira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hellbound follows the story of Marian Meyer, a journalist who was fired from her job after she exposed her father's corrupt business activities. Its later revealed that her father has more sinister allies than she expected--- they aren't human beings...
───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────
Okay, so this story has a very unique concept. The cover design was based on a scene in the Keanu Reeves' starrer Constantine. It starts in the present with Marion driving her mom back home from the airport and they have an argument.

Then the story takes a two year time leap and we're told she is meeting with some very famous demon and the saying 'hell is empty and all the demons are here' is mentioned. Now, at the point I DNFed this one, there is not a single explanation of how Marion met Vale.

He has a hot and cold attitude and personality. He keeps things from her and says that he does it to protect her. She works as a diver for him. A diver who dies to go to hell, a risk she takes every time because over there there is this inter-dimensional being called the Remnant who kills any diver who it comes across. As the story progresses, Marion makes friends with Tori who is a traveler. I felt Tori was way more interesting since she was literally going to send Marion to her own hell.

Now, we have a villain called Verinne who wants to get something from Marion. Verinne was a great villain. We didn't know what she wanted and what she would do next.

The reason this is 4 stars is because there wasn't a clear explanation at 88% of the story how Marion met Vale. That was really annoying. The story was too much of a slowburn and Vale's attitude was kind of annoying me. I felt that the filler chapters shouldn't have been included because it slowed the story a lot.

[KazReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Hellbound is a truly unique story. It’s stands out with its novel concepts, refreshingly human & inhuman characters, and a landscape that blends the grit of reality and the unknown.

Marian is a perfectly imperfect FMC, she’s not the typical determined and put together heroine, but a woman deeply struggling with her past and her self-worth. Her personal journey is realistic and complementary to the plot, the way she learns to grow but doesn’t just magically become fixed grounds her as a relatable character. We have a fantastic representation of depression through her character.

Vale ebbs from charming to uncanny, from awkward to kind to demanding. I love that he doesn’t feel human, but like the something other he is. He behaves like a godlike creature, not understanding the nuances that belong to mortals, but willing to learn. He is exacting and expects to be obeyed, but also treats Marian with care and affection.

The plot twists were excellently foreshadowed, landing right in their reveal, and put sense into a hell that doesn’t feel quite right. The romance is there, but not at all central to the story. The focus is more on the relationships Marian develops with the other characters, including Vale. Hell is the main focus, it and what needs to be done to right the order of the universe.

I appreciate how the ending fits with how the main plot came to its conclusion. It doesn’t feel like an ending, but the half way point for both Marian, her relationship with Vale, and the overarching goal. I really hope this book gets its sequel because I can’t wait to find out more about the lore of the demons and hell, the consequences of our characters actions, and how Marian finds true happiness.

[awoo choir · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book speaks to my economical anxiety, which I am sure many can relate. Right from the start, we're put in Marian's shoes as she navigates a city overrun by wealthy demons, most of whom see humans as cattle. Very much like the capitalistic nightmare that is our real world. It's grim. But Marian's cynical, snarky voice had been entertaining (and oddly comforting at times). I was hopelessly entranced halfway through Chapter 1.

What I expected: urban fantasy with dark undertones + gore + high-stake, fast-paced narrative. And also, the Romance—slow, tension-charged romance. HELLBOUND delivers all that it promises. The plot is seamless; the demons and sometimes humans are unflinchingly cruel; and the chemistry between the leads are off the roof. There is a shadow daddy for all the staunch shadow-daddy enjoyers our there. Even as someone who doesn't actively seek out books with them, I am a big fan of the guy. 10/10 LI

What I didn't expect: the side characters, the angst, the in-depth character study for Marian. The book doesn't pull punches when it comes to difficult subjects or hide behind the action and thrill. It gives us all instead. The supporting cast also really grew on me. I am always hesitant to be emotionally invested in side characters, but I have no choice with these two, y'all. They are so much fun. I couldn't be more grateful for the ample of screen time for them and the critical roles they play in Marian's story.

There is a lot more in HELLBOUND to scream about, but I will refrain from giving anything else away. After this book, Binx will be an auto-read author for me. You will find me in Hell before I miss out on her future novels.

[Sammiejo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover of this one captured my attention immediately, and when I read the description I was hooked.

Our FMC Marian makes her living by dying--which is about as good for her mental health as it sounds. Prickly as a sharp-witted cactus and burdened with guilt, Marian reminds me of characters like Jessica Jones and Backstrom. 'Down on her luck' doesn't even begin to cover it, and she has convinced that she doesn't care about anything or anyone.

Our MMC Mr. Vale seems like Marian's perfect foil: powerful, composed, and clearly knows a lot more than he let's on. One of her wealthy demon patrons, Vale makes Marian an unconventional offer to dive for him. Though she can't afford to say no, Vale's motives are as mysterious as he is and Marian doesn't know how much she can trust him, if at all.

THE VIBES are exquisite. From the gritty slums of LA to the unsettling halls of Hell, author Stephanie Binx consistently paints a vivid picture of every horror-tinged situation and location.

THE ORIGINALITY is refreshing. While I can certainly make comparisons to give you some idea of what to expect (TV's Lucifer and the book Souls in Ruin spring to mind) Hellbound creates a world all its own. There's a plot twist just past the middle of the book that will have your jaw on. the. floor.

THE SLOWBURN is torturous. Between the dying and the scheming and the stale Pop-Tarts Marian's got a lot on her mind. But there's something magnetic about the way that Vale draws her in, and if you pay attention you'll realize how he truly feels about Marian long before she does.

Hellbound gets a resounding yes from me. The ending left me satisfied yet craving more YESTERDAY, and debut author Stephanie Binx has earned herself a leading spot on my list of Authors to Watch.

[Beau · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to Alcove Press for a complimentary arc of Hellbound. All opinions expressed are my own.*

Before I even picked up Hellbound, I saw the description of “for fans of tv’s Lucifer” and I was instantly intrigued. I’m happy to say it absolutely delivered that same blend of supernatural action, sharp humour and irresistible chaos, while still managing to stay completely unique.

This is an action-packed urban fantasy that somehow doesn’t overwhelm you. The pacing is excellent, balancing intense, high-stakes moments with plenty of quips, banter, and interactions that will have you chuckling, which managed to keep me hooked from beginning to end.

Marian is the kind of protagonist who isn’t exactly likeable in the typical sense, yet somehow you’ll find yourself loving her and rooting for her almost immediately. The rest of the cast of characters are just as sure to win you over (well… mostly).

While the romance absolutely delivered everything I wanted from a darker, morally grey story, I loved that the true love in these pages was the found family that the lead builds along the way.

What surprised me the most, however, was the world building. Most urban fantasy I’ve read hasn’t been able to balance things like legends and lore too well, in my opinion, yet Binx has provided an excellent urban setting while also weaving in legends, folklore and crime syndicates in a seamless way that somehow works perfectly. Overall, it just felt rich and refreshingly original.

The plot is intense, addictive, and packed with deliciously high stakes. If you love morally grey characters, supernatural chaos, darkly open doors and found families, this is the urban fantasy you need to pick up next - you’ll probably devour this one just as quickly as I did.

[⚔️Caitlyn✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by NETGALLEY!

3.75 ⭐️ rounded up

I enjoyed a lot of aspects about this book! I loved how quick witted and easy it was so read! The writing and characterization and plot was pretty straight forward and also unique! I really loved Marion and how dry and jaded she was, honestly such a breath of fresh air she was freaking hilarious.

For me personally, I think the writing style just felt a bit too detached for me to feel emotional about anything that was going on. There were moments that should have really hit me or twists that should have made me gasp, but because the writing was very quick and exact (like the main character is so it makes total sense) the plot points didn’t hit emotionally in a way that would have brought this to a higher rating.

But don’t get me wrong, I think this was a great read and had a lot of fantastic aspect! I just personally prefer my prose a little more flowery and angsty.

I also wanted more from Vale!!! I needed him on every single page. I needed his prescence to CONSUME me. I loved him! And the side characters really shined here! Tori and Paul and even Greg, they all felt very distinct and vivid.

I got lost a bit in the world building aspect of Hell and the power and it not really being Hell it got a little murky for me, but I trusted I didn’t really need to know all the details to get the story (which I didn’t)

Overall, I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a gritty, raw, and fast paced read with a unique prescence and world! (And a main character who is so witty it’s unreal)

[Anna Siewicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marian was extremely relatable, I resonated with her in different ways. The trait i loved the most was how kind she was even for a stranger.
The author also did a great job at representing mental health especially anxiety/panic attacks.

Now Vale.... without spoiling much, he was a unique take of "shadow daddy"...
At the start of the book i percieved him as being this rich bratty asshole, ended with me being lowkey scared of him in a hot way??? i wasnt expected how dark his character went, but i loved his caring side/ "I dont care but I actually really do" vibes.

I can best compare Marian to Jessica Jones from marvel, and Vale to the Darkling (shadow and bone/ but less pathetic .

All characters had so much growth through the story as well as the romance.
Now, as far as the romance goes, it definitely was a little darker than I expected. Its not my cup of tea, it kinda danced around the line of having nonconsenual advances.

Otherwise I enjoyed the pacing and the different reveals throughout.

I can see there being a book 2, but if not, I do wish there was more information about the end.

I wouldve love to see:
>More gore/horror
>More explanations as to why Vale acted as dark as he did at times and then flip to be so sweet
> more scenes between the entirety of Vales and Marians relationship, iykyk

All that being said, I would definitely read it again.

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one has such a great concept. Hell divers, Astro travelers, and Spotters all working together to bring the dead back, and the world building around that idea is genuinely good.

But for me this read a lot heavier on filler than I expected. Marian deals with extreme depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and a lot of self hatred, and while I understand why the nausea and vomiting comes up so much given her anxiety, it ended up feeling like filler more than anything else. I think the story would have been even stronger with a little more time spent actually in Hell instead.

Vale is written well, but with so much page time going to Marian’s depression and anxiety, I wish we’d gotten more of him emotionally too, more moments of him actually helping her work through that self loathing rather than just being present for it.

As for the romance… honestly I think I would have preferred either more of it, or none at all with just hints that Vale loved her. It sat in this in between space that didn’t fully work for me.

Tori and Paul were such a needed addition though, I was glad Marian had real friends by the end. The background information also felt a bit scattered, like it was dropped in rather than woven through.

All in all I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a fresh new concept, but I wouldn’t go in expecting a romance.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!

[Amanda Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

A paranormal urban fantasy that left me in my feels. With an electrifying dash of slow-burn romance between a human Hell-diver, Marian, and the mysteriously alluring demon she’s made several deals with, Vale… or at least we believe he’s a demon…

I LOVED THIS BOOK! Horror elements, phenomenal side-characters, completely unique feel & it’s a standalone? Just perfect. The stakes are high and I was engrossed in the story the entire time. With character arcs steadily evolving throughout I honestly didn’t know where we’d end up. Stephanie Binx did a stellar job layering this story and throwing her readers for loops, ending on a satisfying note.

Marian’s struggles and mental health is something so many can connect with. It was heartwarming and healing to see her evolve & accept that she is lovable. Vale was the perfect counter to all that she faced. He’s a big character and intimidating to many but her. For her, this demon has a caring side and oooh how fun it was to see that unfold! Their bickering and banter was the cherry on top.

Comped to Lucifer (TV) and The Wren in the Holly Library, I’d also say parts of this story made me feel like I was in the basement of Eric Northman’s bar (sans vampires). I highly recommend this gritty novel releasing August 25th, 2026!

~Thank you to Alcove Press for the gifted eARC. All opinions within this review are my own.~

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gritty, sexy urban fantasy that will absolutely scratch a very particular itch for fans of John Constantine and Leigh Bardugo's Alex Stern.

I am so excited by the reemergence of urban fantasy as a genre that seems to be taking hold, and Hellbound is a stellar example of how to do it well in 2026. Marian, our FMC, is a compelling character with plenty of flaws, failings and grit that she has to wrestle with throughout the course of the book while navigating supernatural politics, family drama, legal trouble and a day job that requires her to repeatedly drown herself. The Los Angeles the author conjures in the setting feels cinematic, with the glitter of west coast luxury juxtaposed against seedy Hollywood decay in a way that echoes Marian's ability to literally straddle different worlds.

I adored the secondary characters that the author introduced and the underlying heat and romantic tension built throughout the book and definitely paid off fully before the end. If I had any compliant, it would be that I felt like there was a lot more of the setting that could have been explored. If we're very lucky, maybe the author will return for a round two in a future book!

Deepest thanks to Netgalley, Alcove Press and the author for the chance to read this before it hits shelves this fall! I loved it, and I'm positive so many other people will too!

[Chezza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. I've read it twice now, once in an earlier form and once as an arc, and this story is one that sticks with you. Sure, we have an unfairly attractive shadow daddy, frightening dives into hell, commentary on capitalism, and several mysteries that keep you enraptured as you go along, but I think, for me, what I love so much about this book is the emotional vulnerability at its core. Marian is a wonderful character--stubborn, warm-hearted, in desperate need of a shower for 90% of the book--and she's just so freaking relatable. The mental health issues she struggles with and her inability to accept love make me want to wrap her up in a warm blanket and tell her everything's going to be ok.

There's a lot of heart in this book and it all comes to a head by the end in the most satisfying way. Going into this read, I didn't expect it to be about love as much as it was. And it truly is about love, and allowing yourself to be loved, with a side of saucy tentacles and pokemon shorts that just won't quit. You might read this book for the witty humour, the grotesque creatures, and a sarcastic Vale, but you'll stay for the emotional depth and chaos queen FMC.

Thanks so much to Steph and Netgalley for the arc!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hellbound by Stephanie Binx is one of those books that leaves a mark, whether you love it or struggle with it. For me, it landed somewhere in the middle. The story is undeniably creative and deeply original, built on a premise that’s as bold as it is unsettling: dying repeatedly, descending into hell, and retrieving objects for demons stranded on earth so they can remember who they once were. It’s a concept that stands out immediately, and the worldbuilding and character work behind it are genuinely impressive.

But the tone is very dark, and not in a moody, atmospheric way, more in a heavy, depressive, deeply unsettling way that never really lets up. While I appreciated the ambition and the craft, the emotional weight became too much for me personally. It’s a book that sits with you, but not always comfortably.

Still, I can absolutely see this story blowing up. Its originality, its daring premise, and its commitment to its own darkness will resonate strongly with readers who crave boundary‑pushing fiction. It just wasn’t fully my thing, even though I respect what it achieved. 3.5 Stars

Thank you to Edelweiss | Alcove Press | Crooked Lane Book for this ARC copy. This is my review.

[Marcela Marquez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was super fortunate to sign up for Stephanie’s street team. I’m so glad I did because I received a digital ARC copy and you guys!!!

Without spoilers—I’ll say that my favorite thing was how well the author crafted her main character’s arc. It’s no surprise that from the beginning of the book Marian hates herself. It’s so deep and personal and raw and I rooted for her from the beginning even though she sort of self sabotages. And again, this can be found from page one—so I don’t count it as a spoiler.

The prose was so wonderful. It kept me engaged the whole time, especially when the atmosphere was dark and gritty.

I loved the side characters, especially sweet Tori wok I may have a crush on 🤭

This story was so unique and I can’t wait to hold a physical copy in my hand. If you’re looking for a moody, dark fantasy set with split settings between real world and a Hellish, second world. This is your book!!

[Rebecca Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hell is empty and all the devils are here has never been truer!

I loved this book. It's got a noir, old-school flair and a very special kind of dark humor. I was down bad for Vale from the very first scene. He's so brooding, mysterious, and you can sense how dangerous he is. He is as handsome as he is deadly. But we love a monster who is soft and respectful with the girl he likes, and this is our MC, Marian. She has made a job out of dying and going to hell to retrieve artifacts for demons. And boy did I love Marian! She is flawed and chaotic, and I found her amusing and endearing, because deep down, Marian is just a girl who likes to put on an act of being strong but she is truly vulnerable deep inside. Stephanie has done such a good job at portraying trauma and living life in survival mode. Filled with twists and action and deals with demons, this book kept me glued and turning pages.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Alcove Press for the e-ARC.

[Ilana Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Half eviscerating speculative romance/half Hellraiser, Hellbound is a dark contemporary fantasy novel with a fascinating central concept: Marian, the protagonist, is paid by demons to die and go to Hell in search of mysterious artefacts. It takes a toll, of course, but due to tragedies in her past, Marian believes she deserves to suffer. Mr Vale, the demon who hires her to find a specific item in Hell, seems to believe otherwise. Marian doesn't trust him at all, despite her feverish attraction which seems to be reciprocated. Is it wise to get involved with a demon?

The writing is visceral and immediate, the descriptions of Hell and the remnant were terrifying. The story kept me hooked from beginning to end. My favourite aspect was the tension between Vale and Marian: it sizzled. I also loved the side characters, Tori and Paul. Intricate story-telling and gradual revelations helped as well, and I appreciated the exploration of trauma and mental health challenges.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Alcove Press and Stephanie Binx for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!

I really liked this book! The concept is very unique, people dying on purpose so they go to hell and retrieve objects for the demons that can no longer go there for a lot of money. I really liked Marian as a main character because she is so flawed and behaves like an actual human in the face of trauma in stead of the MC's we usually get that can shrugg everything of. I also really liked Vale, he's broody, mysterious and morally grey, just the way I like my fictional men.
I do think the ending felt a bit rushed, if that was drawn out a bit more it would have gotten a higher rating. 4 stars is still a really good rating in my opinion so if the blurb of this book vibes with you I think you will like it!

[Priscilla Calvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book. Every detail, situation, and character throughout the storyline were carefully laid out and worked together in a way that took my breath away. Marion, the FMC, is both strong and flawed, growing throughout the book and still staying true to herself. Her ventures into Hell are eerie, with the entire Hell-scape being depicted perfectly. About 60% into the book, everything I thought I knew was thrown upside down, and I found myself enjoying a new layer to the story.

Stephanie Binx gives you a scary good time mixed with the romantasy feel you look for from books like Hollow, Starside, or Fourth Wing. I appreciated the slow burn romance in this book, because any hints of spice did not take away from the story like some romantasies tend to do. If you're looking for a fantasy that delivers, Hellbound will not disappoint you. It has it ALL.

[Drie Corley · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5/5

Hellbound was such a fun ride. 😈🔥

This book threw me straight into a dark, chaotic world filled with danger, supernatural drama, and plenty of twists. The atmosphere was one of my favorite parts—it felt gritty, intense, and kept me turning pages to see what would happen next.

The characters kept me invested, and I loved watching them navigate everything being thrown their way. There were definitely moments that had me stressed in the best way possible, and a few surprises I didn’t see coming.

While I wanted a little more depth in certain areas, I still had a great time with this one. If you’re into dark fantasy, demons, high stakes, and stories that keep you hooked until the end, Hellbound is worth adding to your TBR.

[Lizzie Hope · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very torn when it came to rating Hellbound. This book had me in a chokehold from page one, but then the ending fell a bit flat. It’s definitely got that mystery thriller/ horror paranormal horror vibe to it, and those genres definitely hit hard, but the subplot of romance that was thrown in was kinda just meh, and caused the ending to fall a bit flat. Like I wasn’t sure what I was rooting for at the end, but I know I didn’t get it. I Felt like there was little reward after a helluva journey. That aside, I loved this unique story line, and Binx’s writing had me feeling every ounce of anxiety and pain our main character felt. Part of what made the book hard to put down was how well binx portrays anxiety, depression, and self loathing. I mean, I felt it in my bones. I swear my skin was itching at times. The personal growth from our FMC made this book what it is.

A few additional snaps for my man Paul, who stole the show. Religion being a controversial topping, and two shitty parents getting what they deserved. Woop Woop

[shut.up.mamas.reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Stephanie Binx and Alcove Press for a review copy in exchange for a voluntary review. This was a unique plotline, which is hard to find nowadays. The concept of the novel is that Marian, a former journalist is now a helldiver that goes into hell and retrieves artifacts for demons that can’t remember anything. She is a guilt-ridden prickly feisty FMC. The MMC is Mr. Vale. I tended to enjoy him more than her in this book. This is a very entertaining debut novel. The plot of the book is unique but some of the execution in the story left me wanting. The plot twist was a bit predictable. However, I can’t say that it didn’t entertain me which is sometimes all we need in a read. I would recommend this to anyone that wants something different and that enjoys the paranormal.

[Demri Redmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephanie Binx’s HELLBOUND was an addictive dark fantasy. I’m a sucker for books with settings associated with hell, so I was so excited when I first heard about this book. Binx did not disappoint! I couldn’t put the book down, and I was intrigued with the world building. Binx has a masterful voice, and the concept of the book is spectacular! The characters were so entertaining with fantastic banter, and I absolutely loved the slow burn romance. I highly recommend this book for fans of dark fantasies, cosmic horror, and slow burn romances. Kudos to Binx for such an impressive debut! Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.