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Becoming Lust #1

Next-Door Incubus

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Dani never expects to meet her hot new neighbor, Eros, for the first time wearing only her underwear. And she definitely never expects to dream of him as a demon with large, curved horns and an insatiable hunger for her.

For her boyfriend and for her own sanity, Dani’s determined to avoid Eros at all costs.

But there’s one problem: she can’t seem to stay away from him. He’s haunting her nights with his devilish black eyes and he’s hiding a dangerous secret that may cost Dani her life.


Next-Door Incubus is a paranormal romance novel written by Destiny Diess. It is the first book in the Becoming Lust Trilogy.

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2020

119 people are currently reading
799 people want to read

About the author

Destiny Diess

8 books265 followers
Destiny Diess is an international bestselling author of paranormal romance. With over 28 million story reads online, Destiny enjoys writing novels about werewolves, demons, and gods.

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5 stars
247 (43%)
4 stars
143 (25%)
3 stars
121 (21%)
2 stars
43 (7%)
1 star
16 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Lisa (Remarkablylisa).
2,531 reviews1,815 followers
April 13, 2020
Loved the whole demons angels thing but there's just not enough history and character building to make me LOVE IT a lot. I'm intrigued by the story and where it will go and what danger lies ahead but there wasn't any of the depth I craved in this one. Still good enough for me to give 4/5. You'll like it if you want hot sex all the time.
Profile Image for Inkslinger.
260 reviews50 followers
March 26, 2020
Next-Door Incubus (Becoming Lust Book 1) by Destiny Diess

ARC provided by Destiny Diess. All opinions are mine and freely given.

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03-26: I was excited to read 'Next-Door Incubus (Becoming Lust Book 1)' by Destiny Diess. What's not to love about a story about the demon next door with the smoldering good looks, pretty green eyes, and love handles on his head?

My expectations for storytelling weren't high and I was fine with that. I figured there'd be a little interspersed between a lot of fun smut scenes, with a ton of playful flirting along the way. Well, none of that was exactly what I got. So, even though my expectations were low and a bit shallow, I was still disappointed.

This book really reads like a piece of weak fanfic. I mean, the author has no trouble putting coherent thoughts together or even setting down a path to where she wants to end up.

In fact, I think Destiny was rather ambitious. She seemed to mean to tell a story, rather that just focusing on juicy bits. But instead, every chance she had to explore the plot points she laid out, she skipped them. They would happen somewhere 'off scene.' She would often sort of forward past them by a few hours, days, or even weeks.. only to pick up by having some character tell us that they occurred.

It's the strangest thing. Relationship bomb? Vindication? Dramatic life-changes? World altering deaths? All discussed after the fact. All pivotal plot points, if the story had actually been written instead of alluded to. Nothing seen at all. Just-- 'hey, so.. this happened.. and now here's the result of that.'

At that point, she may as well have left out the story altogether, because I feel like I slid into a chat room somewhere in the early 2000's and just happened to see someone 'writing' in a scrolling window for a few friends who had even less of an idea of how a book might read. Which is really a shame. I feel like with some training, Destiny could develop into a relatively worthy author, but she needs to learn to focus and expand on details and concepts. She needs to slow down and let the reader experience what's happening.

Of the 'steam scenes,' of which there were many, there's a threesome which is pretty well done. It is by far the most detailed scene, but really just because so much happens.

For the most part, what's hottest about this book and our big, strong incubus.. is the themes. He's a naughty boy. He likes playing with the idea of getting caught, he gets a bit pushy when he's in a lusty mood, and the things he does are just plain hot. Unfortunately though, like everything else.. many of the scenes end up feeling really rushed because they're just not visualized well.

The sex scenes felt a bit awkward. They felt as if they were written as if the idea of them was based on adult videos for traditionally masculine target audience, rather than from the perspective of a woman with any experience. Some aspects of them.. some of the verbal exchanges and settings are pretty solid, it just isn't cohesive.

There's a decent amount of character building actually, I was surprised by how much backstory she had for them, even if it was told in sputtering amounts through a catch-up mechanism. And their backstories were interesting. If told well, they would have rocked.. just like the main story itself.

Sadly, I didn't really care for the female lead. Mostly she did a lot of whining and telling us how alternatingly 'good' or 'sinful' she was. A word to the wise, let the stories tell us these things. When they come from the character's mouths.. they're not believable.

Eros is rather lovely though and absolutely her shining moments in the novel due to the lack of detail everywhere else. The information dump isn't ideal, but you have to take the positives where you can find them sometimes.

Also, I did really like the take on Lucifer's kingdom. She actually gave us a bit of imagery here and I was starving for it by then, but I just liked the direction she decided to go with him. It was a good choice and she has so much potential maybe in a couple of years.

Repetition of the mention of their scents got really old. Don't get me wrong, I like coming away with a tangible idea of what being around a character might be like.. and scent is a really good way to convey that, but I don't need to be told about it every few pages.

Anyway, I know there's an audience out there for this book. I won't say it's awful, but it's not good either.


PURCHASE LINKS:


AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | KOBO

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03-23: I was so excited to read this book.. I mean.. look at him. Everything about him says T-R-O-U-B-L-E.. and implies you'll love every minute of it. I started it yesterday though and I'm still only 20% in, which isn't a good sign. It isn't a bad book, the author isn't bad either. So far, it just isn't good. But he is steamy.. so there's that..
Profile Image for Michelle Krystel .
2,051 reviews52 followers
March 11, 2020
I was given an advance readers copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. This author approached me to read her book and at first like always Im little relectuant as I am with any new author to me. But I'm glad she did because next door incubus was a really hot book! I couldn't put it down. And actually found a paranormal book I really enjoyed. And I can't wait for the second book now.
Profile Image for Dominika Ast.
243 reviews9 followers
October 25, 2024
Štve ma, že keď už sa začalo diať niečo zaujímavé, tak kniha skončila.
Profile Image for Bookiechick  Reviews.
725 reviews24 followers
February 11, 2020
This is a first for me from this author and all I can say is she now has a new super fan! I had the amazing Honor of receiving an ARC for this book and I am so grateful! This book is great for someone who wants a steamy, sinful paranormal read.

I’ve read in incubi/demon books previously but nothing like this!
This world we are thrown into was new, thrilling, intriguing with plenty of tension and anticipation. Adventure that takes you on a roller coaster ride and leaves you clinging by your finger nails till the very last word.

I absolutely love the characters, each bringing something we all love in our protagonists and love interests but at the same time bring something new and refreshing that makes them unique to match the story. I love how the perceptions about certain characters are either blurred or down right catch you off guard. This book truly leaves you sitting on the edge of your seat.

I can’t wait to see what else Destiny has in store for us with this series and where she takes us. Will definitely be keeping a close eye on this fabulous author and the work she brings us. Amazing!
Profile Image for M. Marie Walker.
Author 4 books72 followers
December 28, 2021
Good start to series!

I thought this book was a really great start to the becoming lust series. It had definite "Wow" moments along with sexy, dark themes that kept you on your toes. I really enjoyed and can't wait to read the?next
Profile Image for CompulsiveReaderr.
24 reviews3 followers
February 24, 2020
Mom used to call me her perfect little angle. Oh, how I could only imagine what she would think about me now. I was far from angelic; I was lust itself. Filled with it. Bathed in it. Born in it. Fucking in it.
“No,” I said. “I’ve always been a sinner.”


This is the first book in the Becoming Lust series and WOW was it a perfect start. This book took me longer to read than usual because I was dreading finishing it. Have you ever felt that way? Like the end was too near? Destiney Diess created a dark, sinister, and carnal universe that is all consuming. This sexy world is going to leave you craving more and more. I am full of restless anticipation for the second book.
Dani is a strong heroine with an attitude. I thoroughly enjoyed her character. She meets Eros, her arousing next door neighbor, unexpectedly wearing only her underwear and is mortified. She goes out of her way to avoid him but starts having erotic dreams starring him as the main attraction. Dani has a boyfriend but can’t seem to stop thinking about Eros. There is an undeniable chemistry between Dani and Eros that will leave you flushed and frenzied. Eros is a mystery and seems to be hiding something. Dani’s confusion grows as more and more impossible things start happening in her life.
Next Door Incubus was very unpredictable! I never had a clue about what was going to happen next! This is what made me love this book SO much. I was utterly bewitched by this story. If you’re looking for a wicked, steamy, paranormal romance read look no further. Thank you, Destiny Diess, for this sinful universe and my new book boyfriend. I can’t wait for the next book!!
Profile Image for Miriama.
92 reviews
January 21, 2022
Yeah...uh.. I am clearly having a little romance/erotica tryst it would seem with all those that I've read in the span of few days, but they are easy and fast to read. And even if I know that it was published off of wattpad (found it there then moved to procure a copy) I think that it started off a little too strong in my opinion. Still I enjoyed it enough to blow through it in few hours.
Profile Image for Ashley.
515 reviews15 followers
May 20, 2021
This was exactly what I expected it to be, a guilty pleasure read. It was good enough that I started the second book just to see where the storyline goes. Initially, I saw the first few chapters on Wattpad, but everything was updated/rewritten in the full book version.
Profile Image for Amber.
74 reviews
March 20, 2023
Read this whole thing in one sitting
Profile Image for Samantha.
263 reviews19 followers
April 3, 2024
I really want to love this more.. I love love love the demon x angels vibes. I just wish there was more. Like more to the characters & character development. There’s no feeling that has me dying to read book 2 ( I will read book 2) I really just feel like it’s missing something, like such a good idea just didn’t deliver what it was looking for
Profile Image for Laura.
2,157 reviews19 followers
July 1, 2020
So Dani is in a pretty committed relationship until a couple of incubi move in next door. Eros seems a little too into her and she begins dreaming about him, which makes her feel guilty because her boyfriend Trevon has been very good to her. Then Trevon is a jerk and opens the door for her to move on with Eros. But as she gets closer to him and learns who he really is...as well as who she really is, things get complicated.

I didn't like this very much. I gave it 2 stars because the sexy scenes were extremely well written, zero awkwardness that is so common. Unfortunately the story just didn't work for me. Dani went from 0 to 100 with so little prompting it just made no sense, even with the reveal. Also Trevon really got a raw deal and I kinda felt horrible for him, so I wasn't as into Dani and Eros as I may have been otherwise. Finally, the ending was kinda abrupt and a little meh.
506 reviews16 followers
September 16, 2020
DNF @ 30%
An incubus romance, sign me up.
I went into this expecting some crazy hot sex and a super sexy demon.
There was a sexy demon and some hot sex in what I read but it was so rushed and was just very unfulfilling.
But the main reason I decided to stop reading this book was the heroine.
She simply didn't work for me. There was just alot of whining and she was getting boring and I just couldn't be bothered anymore.
57 reviews
October 1, 2021
I wanted to like this. The plot was interesting and had the potential but I felt like the writing was meh. I want to know what happens with the series but it may take me awhile to be able to read (skim) book 2.
Profile Image for Angela.
26 reviews
July 11, 2020
It's been a while since I've felt compelled to leave a review so here it goes...

I've prolonged reading this book for a while because I felt that this was going to be an amazing trilogy and I wanted to wait until all the books were out. Turns out I couldn't wait and felt a bit of a let down.

This book started off great but somewhere after the whole scene with trevon cheating and what proceded after is what made me start to lose interest. How can a boyfriend of 5 years mean so little to you after claiming he was the perfect boyfriend. The scene at the hollween party seems like it was an added scene just to portray him as not such a great boyfriend anymore. After the cheating that wasn't even his fault, she moved on pretty quick and even after learning that it wasn't his fault she didn't try to reconcile but instead alreaded started dating Eros. It just wasn't enough time to get over someone you loved and has been there for you through thick and thin. She came off a bit shallow, seemingly only attracted to Eros for his physical looks because I couldn't see chemistry beyond the constant lustful actions.

Dani's character is one of my least favorite to be honest. The way she acts towards serious situations is not one I would call a mature (age was never mentioned) strong h. Trevon is possessed and her main concern is him bleeding all over her furniture. In another scene Eros is possibly cheating and she contemplates doing the same. I don't mind MFM and I'll admit that scene was rather hot, I just felt like she had the same lustful attraction to Lucifer as if she were f*cking Eros. Eh I guess it's normal reaction since she is the queen of Lust. That being said, this doesn't convince me that it's more than simple attraction towards each other. To claim you want him for yourself and still be open to having others is not comforting to the me for a couple that wants monogamy.

As for Eros, he's just a hot guy that really only flirts. I actually would like to hear more of Zane. I don't think there's anything solid with Maria but I feel like there can be a side story.

In the end, I enjoyed this book. It kept my interest but I felt that lust from both sides is what's really influencing this relationship. I will eventually read the rest but this time I'll wait until the last book is out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
171 reviews
June 26, 2020
Dani never asked for a group of seductive men to move in across the hall and she's not particularly excited about the way they've invaded her life, but her roommate Maria is set on making some love connections. The attraction between Eros and Dani is palpable, but she's determined to resist. As he invades her dreams and her world starts going topsy-turvy, she's forced to admit that maybe there are demons who go bump in the night (and she likes it that way).

Because the story is told totally from Dani's perspective, the reader can only figure out the mystery as quickly as she can. Just when I thought I had all of the pieces put together, there was a new twist. Eros was sensual and sweet. I really wish that there had been at least one chapter from his POV to give his view on everything that was going on, explain the demon world, and clarify a bit of what Dani was experiencing. However, as this book is the first in a trilogy, I expect that those issues will be addressed eventually.

There is some MFM activity, but it's made clear that the second M is a guest and doesn't play an active role in the romance (for now, at least). I prefer my H/h to have a closed relationship, but it's possible that this series will be moving in more of a reverse harem direction. Just wanted to give a heads up if that's not your thing.

Overall, this was an intriguing start and I'm really curious to see how Dani moves forward.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gina *within_this_chapter*.
25 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2020
“I’ve been dreaming of all the dirty things I would do to you, how I’d make you beg, how I’d make you scream out as I tormented this pretty little body of yours.” 

Looking for another sexy demon to add to your book boyfriends list? Look no further! I’ve been craving paranormal romances lately and this book was exactly what I needed. It was such a fun, sexy and fast read! And STEAMY!! 😉 There’s one particular scene in the Louge that was EXTRA HOT 🔥🔥..trust me you got to read it!😜

The book follows Dani, who discovers her hot next door neighbour isn’t your average guy next door..he’s so much more. But what does he want from her? Why does he keep appearing in her dreams? I loved that each incubus had their own personal scent to seduce humans. And of course Eros had a very delicious scent 😋 I would have totally been seduced by him! The book kept me guessing till the end. There were plot twists I didn’t see coming! Trust me, I’m usually good with theories. I couldn’t put it down and when I read the last sentence, I really needed MORE. wait to see the character development of Dani in book 2.

Overall, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read book 2. Highly recommend to anyone who loves paranormal romances with dicklicious demons!!

Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⚡️

**Thank you so much to Destiny Diess for reaching out and sending me a copy of her e-book in exchange for an honest review. **
Profile Image for Valerie *valovebooks* Parker.
269 reviews7 followers
September 10, 2021
Love love

Omg I'm pretty sure this author recommended her book in the bang group and I one clicked her because it sounded amazing, and oh my wow. It was a quick read and every word was great. It was just entertaining from the start down to the very last word, absolutely love it!! That cliffhanger is delicious and im so glad I bought the whole set when I one clicked haha Dani is amazing and she is strong and not so easily fooled.. I hope. Eros is spicy and I love me some cinnamon!!! I love the whole entirety of this story. All of the details. All of the characters. I even like Danis long time bf. I love her friend Maria. I love The sister whose name I forgot that fast, haha. She's Def hot! I even liked Javier too. I was really curious about the whole scandalous thing he did that involved Dani, I thought maybe there was something more to that emotion wise. But that was a dead end. Lol Lucifer is tricky. I dont trust him fully yet ofcourse! And I don't think I ever will, change my mind Destiny!! Lol the story played like a fun movie I NEVER want to end. Im totally feeling this author and I bet I'm going to Binge her and stalk her after this series if she has more books, I hope she does. Lol Hi I'm your #1 fan. 🤣🤣 Check this book out everyone!!!!
Profile Image for Maryanne Cross.
30 reviews
July 7, 2020
DNF past the first few pages. What did I read?

Okay, three attractive neighbors sitting in your living room your roommate invited over. Total strangers? Okay, I have never known any of my girl friends to invite 3 male neighbors over especially when they are by themselves.

I didn't even know my neighbors or cared who my neigherbors were lol. This is the 21st century no one does this or at least the average person doesn't. And who has time to meet and greet neighbors except retired people? Sorry, I am picking on this.

Also, why do 'bad boys' need tattoos and dark hair? I see this cliche in many books.

Moving on the summary said she was in a relationship and here is her roomate trying to shove a man down her throat. What is wrong with her friend?

Since I am talking about the friend I would be really pissed at my friend if she did this to me and especially so after the dude kissed my hand and whispers rapey vibes in my ear. I would then straight up hide in my room texting my friend not nicely for her get them the hell out.

I only picked this book up because of the book cover. I give that a 10/10.
Profile Image for Teko.
51 reviews2 followers
July 19, 2021
Dnf'd at 85% I tried reeeaaaalllyyyy hard to finish this but I honesty couldn't take it anymore. I decided I was going to take a break from this and read 5 other books but when I tried to return to it I just couldn't get past a page and just gave up...

I have no problem reading reverse harems, threesomes, etc but after the threesome I just couldn't. WHY DID THAT EVEN HAPPEN!?!?! Ugh... he told her he didn't want a poly relationship, yet in the next chapter he shared her with another guy...

The book was overall not interesting enough for me just because some of the parts didn't make sense. It felt like the only reason why Dani even had a boyfriend was just so she had a reason not to have sex with Eros... the way that they met was also weird, okay the guys were hot but since when do young girls invite their stranger neighbours over in this day and age??

Overall I may not have enjoyed this but it doesn't mean someone else might like it.
Profile Image for Marie  Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads).
2,767 reviews56 followers
February 7, 2020
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

Oh good gracious, Next Door Incubus the first book in Destiny Diess's Becoming Lust trilogy is a HIT! It was wickedly HOT....like a raging inferno hot and I am really loving Eros and his mischievous ways and the way he seemed to rile Dani up so easily. The chemistry between them was off the freaking charts and the story was incredibly interesting and the plot down right fascinating. I am in love!

The moment I started this book I can honestly say I was enraptured and I really didn't like putting it down. It was fun and sexy and had plenty of unexpected twists I didn't see coming. I am BEYOND eager for book two that is for darn sure. I am not sure how long I can wait before I go stir crazy. The first book was THAT good!

Next Door Incubus gets a CAPTIVATING FIVE JAW-DROPPING STARS!
Profile Image for Maria Reynoso.
145 reviews3 followers
July 2, 2020
This is the first book of Ms. Deiss that I have read, and it definitely won't be the last. I always love to find and read books on Heaven and Hell, demons and angels in all of their forms. I was surprised and happy with the way that Ms. Deiss introduced her characters and how they developed through out the tale. I found Dani to be a bit too whiny, but she grew on me. I absolutely love Eros. He's an injured alpha who is coming in to his own again. The explosive chemistry between Dani and Eros left me gasping and begging for more. I enjoyed this book, and I recommend it to those 18+ due to the very graphic sexual scenes. Thank you BookSprout for gifting me a copy of this book and introducing me to a new author. I look forward to finding out what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rough Draft Book Blog.
475 reviews53 followers
December 27, 2020
Next-Door Incubus by Destiny Diess
GREAT INTRODUCTION FOR A NEW TO ME AUTHOR
5 Stars

My daughter read this (I think on Wattpad) and told me about it. She said it was hot, steamy, and one of the unputdownable kind of books... She was right!!

I loved the chemistry and banter between Dani and Eros. This book was super sexy and had the right amount of humor peppered in. I am definitely intrigued to see where this story goes. I have to admit I didn't know this was a series.

It's fast paced, the characters are sexy and funny as hell, and the plot is excellent. Can't wait to read the next one.

Profile Image for Pretty_Book_Whore  Narissa.
374 reviews14 followers
February 10, 2020
Holy hot demon escapades! I've always had a thing for incubus' and succubus' and this story is right up there with Anita Blake novels! Dani doesnt know why she keeps having dreams of her gorgeous neighbor Eros especially when she finds Mark's on herself when she wakes up. I was fanning myself during a particularly hot scene that involved Lucier because hello who doesnt dream on getting hot and heavy with the king of pride himself!!! Okay I dont want to spoil anything for you, especially if my review makes you want to read this book bit seriously read this book! You will not regret it. Its paranormal romance at its scorchingly hottest! With some pretty intense drama!
I recieved an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.8k reviews361 followers
February 28, 2020
Dani is a strong female character who meets her neighbor, Eros, while she is in her underwear! She is thoroughly embarrassed and goes out of her way to avoid him – yet her dreams keep bringing him back to her. Their chemistry is sizzling and even her boyfriend can’t distract her enough to forget Eros. Yet there is a mystery here. And Dani could be put in more danger than she will ever realize!

This story was different and refreshingly unique, definitely one that will draw in the reader in fascinated excitement to see where this one will go. Even a surprise guest visitor is tossed in for our enjoyment. Grab your copy and see what you think of Eros, the sexy next-door neighbor!
1 review
March 12, 2020
This book is so captivating from start to finish, each character you read about, gives you more of an idea on who they are and how your going to fall on love with them over the this book.

Next-Door Incubus has you wanting more, has you feeling like your in their world with them at every moment. The characters, especially Dani, are relatable with the little things she does throughout it.

Paranormal, romance, exciting, thrilling, steamy, are just some of the words the describe this book.

If you want a book you won't be able to put down, that's well written with steamy hot chapters throughout I highly recommending this.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Chappell.
1,444 reviews21 followers
June 19, 2020
This book could have been told in half the length and still not missed anything. It was full of confused plot twists that didn’t enhance the story, like how the FMC original boyfriend gets taken out of the way. No real reason for that plot line. And there was this whole focus on monogamy as the goal for the two lovers but then we’re thrown a sloppy threesome and the plans for “much more sexual partners” in the future. Why even bring the monogamy up? Made no sense to me. So I will not be continuing on with this series, it’s not interesting or well written enough in my opinion.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lizzypants.
208 reviews5 followers
May 10, 2024
I don’t like this girl at all…. I found the main character absolutely infuriating. The stupid push and pull, and then then she’s so freaking naive, innocent but NOT it’s so annoying. It’s been awful listening to this. I think this is killing brain cells. I don’t want to be mean to the author, I just hate this girl she’s written.

I almost think I would slap her if I could. She would jump back shocked and have an inner monologue for 10 minutes about what she should do and what could happen if she did something. Then shut her mouth and not say anything. An entire book of that….. I am not sure I can get through this book.
Profile Image for Aastha Gupta.
4 reviews
February 8, 2020
NDI, book one in Destiny Dieas' Becoming Lust Trilogy, takes you on a rollercoaster ride through a journey of Lust, Love, Friendships, Hurt, Jealousy, and still so much more. Think you've read enough of demon incubi ? Think again.
This story packs a punch like no other with lots of twists and turns that will keep your feet jumping, heart thumping, panties dripping and pages turning.
The part I found best about the author's writing style is that every character is his/her own person and develops themselves with the story.
Follow Dani and Eros on their journey to Becoming Lust. ❤️
Profile Image for Kayla.
729 reviews7 followers
April 5, 2020
Holy Paranornal Hotness! Have a thing for demons? Good and bad? This is definitely the book for you! I absolutely loved this book and read it all in one sitting. I just couldn't put it down, I had to know what was going to happen next. If you're looking for a book about a girl coming into her own power, here it. It leaves you wanting more from Dani and Eros. So glad there are two more books coming soon for this trilogy because I need more.
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