Tenderly, I am devoured has a beautiful cover. The story was interesting and lepr me wanting to continue it. I did not car for the love interest in the book to much.

If you’re a vibes reader who loves messy but heartwarming romance, gorgeous gothic atmosphere, and poetically tortured characters, this will be a five star read for you!!! I enjoyed Clipstone’s latest well enough, but it took me months to get through my arc because the pacing was so disjointed and, ultimately, so meandering it bordered on boring to me at times. I simply could not be carried through on vibes alone. Additionally, the atmospheric prose, while lovely, took away from the plotting and actually getting to the point at times, it felt very distracted and certainly didn’t do the pacing any favours.

That said, I loved the characters and their relationships; and the moody gothic seaside vibes truly were on point from start to finish!! Everything that detracted for me will be some readers’ favourite elements, so I do absolutely recommend giving this little beauty a shot.

Deepest appreciation, of course, to Lyndall Clipstone, Netgalley, and Macmillan/Henry Holt & Co for the opportunity to read an advanced e-galley in exchange for my honest feedback!

Gothic and highly atmospheric, I could smell the ocean breeze in every page turn. Clipstone opens a door to a world you will never want to leave.

Lark's return home is cloaked with intrigue, hooking the reader from the start. Chapters switch from the present time to a few years back when Lark was attending Marchmain Academy. Lark returns home to find her brothers struggling financially; the only way to save her brothers from ruins is a pact of matrimony to a Chthonic God. But things go wrong during their marriage engagement, and the supernatural takes over Lark's life in her mortal world. She has to turn for help to the boy who broke her heart, Alastair, and his sister Camille, who might just be the one to mend it, or one of them, because why be exclusive if there's consent?

The alternating timelines serve to grow more interest in the resolution of the conflicts at hand because the characters have a lot of baggage to unpack. When you think you're caught up in the lore, the best thing to do is buckle up because it gets twisty with complications, and the ending might require a few tissues. The story is not a fast-paced one, but it has a strong current that will pull you from one chapter to the other till you reach the end.

In Tenderly, I am Devoured, the gods are not the saviors they are often portrayed to be; in fact, they are part of the problem. However, the key to resolving the central conflict lies in the characters' ability to take control and trust in themselves. Their actions are driven by a strong desire to assert control over their lives and destinies. They are fighting to break free from abuse, lack of freedom, and the burden of secrets that suppress their true selves. Even when empowered, making sacrifices does not guarantee a perfect ending. Yet, the characters embrace the lives they have fought to create, inspiring us with their resilience and determination.

The author's writing is beautiful and the descriptions of the world are vivid and romantic. Worldbuilding seems to be missing something, not beauty, but maybe a community that reflects the different structures and dynamics that surround the story. In spite of this, Verse seems like a great place to visit. Ticket for one, please!

Tenderly, I Am Devoured delivers on its promise of queer romantic folk horror, with an eerie coastal setting, a chthonic sea god groom, and a messy polyamorous love triangle at its center. Lark is a compelling protagonist—sympathetic, stubborn, and constantly pulled between duty and desire. The worldbuilding is strong, with cults, rituals, and small-town lore that feel both specific and haunting.

The prose is lush and atmospheric without being overdone, and the dynamic between the Felimath siblings adds real tension and intrigue. The pacing, especially in the first half, drags at times, and some emotional moments don’t hit as hard as they should—but the second half picks up and delivers a satisfying, if strange, conclusion.

If you liked Saltburn but wished it had more sea gods and cults, or if A Study in Drowning left you craving something queerer and more hedonistic, this one's for you.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

DNF @57%

Thank you to Lyndall for an arc of this book! It was one of my most anticipated reads and I really appreciate the opportunity to read it early!

Unfortunately this book just didn’t work for me.

The setting and atmosphere is there, I could SEE the vision… but the story itself just felt so rushed and under-developed. It felt like I was reading a sequel or at least missing some sort of prequel set up.
I could not connect to the characters at all and I was really struggling through it. It felt like they were all just placed there and we just had to accept who they were to the MC.

There’s no point in me posting my detailed notes because I ended up DNFing so can’t comment on the book as a whole. I simply concluded this just wasn’t for me! But hopefully others connect with it more!

2.5 stars

Tenderly, I am Devoured is a beautifully written, almost poetic, YA fantasy that actually feels like YA. This is definitely a positive - with the rise of popularity of the romantasy genre among adult readers, it's not easy to find a book where teenage characters act their age. I found this particularly refreshing (and quite nostalgic, as I have naturally veered away from YA as I've gotten older). The balance between the novel's main conflicts/intrigues and its romances is also very well done.

While the beauty of the world described within its pages is apparent, and the language is gorgeous and flowing, I did often find it got in the way of certain dramatic/high action moments. I also felt that (1) there may have been too many characters or (2) there just wasn't enough time to give them all their proper due.

The start of the novel where we see Lark's complex relationship with Alastair in the past and present, as well as her past with Damson, is where the story truly shines. Each character feels full and flawed. In the latter half, <spoiler>as Lark's relationship with Camille grows, I found myself not quite believing in their connection as we barely got any backstory there. There was far more build-up with Damson, who does not even feature in the present day.</spoiler>

Personally did not think this was the book for me! The writing style was different than what I love so I struggled to get through it, but I do think people will love this book so I am ready to sell it when it comes out!

Some things I loved about this and others I didn't.
Loved: the atmosphere and descriptions. The vibes were immaculate. Incredibly lush descriptions, of a small town along the coast (it made me think of Newfoundland or the Shetland islands). Dreary days, salty ocean, spooky rituals. Excellent. I felt the wind in my bones.
Pretty good: the plot. While it was pretty slow, I enjoyed the mythology of the gods and how exactly Lark was going to find her way out of it.
Not for me: The romance. I eagerly picked this up because I love horroromance but the fact that the relationship was a poly one and clear it was going in that direction absolutely sapped it of tension/urgency. Like, I get that her affections were torn but the most boring, least interesting answer is all of the above. Give me the angst of having to choose! "All of the above" was just not a narratively satisfying result.

3 stars for everything canceling out and it being a fine read on a rainy Friday.

Tenderly I Am Devoured absolutely delivers on its gothic, Saltburn-esque vibe. The character dynamics were magnetic and kept me hooked from the start. While the latter half dragged a bit with some extra fluff, the emotional payoff… especially the MMC’s selfless sacrifice… (TEARS!!) was beautiful and so heartfelt. A dark, moody read with a tender core. Four stars!!!

DNF unfortunately….

I made it almost 60% in this book before I had to give up the ghost.

This started out so strong for me. The atmosphere and setting was perfectly set up, and the story was compelling. I enjoyed the lore and the universe.

Sadly, somewhere along the way, all of that was lost, and I just couldn’t waste any more of my time with it.

melancholy and atmospheric, clipstone’s tenderly, i am devoured is a gothic dream. lark as a lead is easy to empathise with, especially as someone who has felt stuck, adrift. i found the romances quite lovely, as there was no jealousy and each dynamic was different. i did prefer the sapphics though if i’m honest, as a lesbian i just can’t pass up sapphic yearning. the discussions of familial abuse were heartbreaking, though i personally think the resolution could’ve been a bit more drawn out. on the contrary i thought the handling of a certain friendship was really well done, sometimes there is no real closure — just moving on, and that’s more than okay.

ultimately, would definitely recommend to fans of ava reid and those who listen to the last dinner party on repeat.

Dear baby Cthulhu, this was boring. I am more than halfway through this book and there has been so little exploration of the chthonic demons. Why even have that be part of the book when most of it is following angsty teenagers being crappy towards each other. I cared so little for why she was expelled, that the fact that it was dragged out the way it was, made the reveal all the more frustrating. It did not need to be revealed the way it was, it ultimately doesn't matter. It has no real baring on what is currently happening to her with the god she's supposed to marry, and all those shenanigans. If it paralleled how her friendship ended with Alistair, then maybe it might make sense to drag out what lead to her being expelled, but it doesn't.
I was nearly 60% into this book, and I honestly don't feel like anything had happened.
One more thing, her brothers suck. They somehow put so much on her shoulders, but also treat her like a baby. Granted, she's very immature for someone who's supposed to be 18. I also really hate that they destroyed any connection to their parents so she has no way to remember them. (this is mentioned really early on so I don't view it as a spoiler, and it also doesn't really matter in the grand scheme of the story as far as I can tell).
I think my biggest issue is that I had high expectations, and was let down from the start.

I really enjoyed this book! The blending of queer themes so seamlessly into the narrative was really wonderful, I love when queer characters can just exist without overly explaining their sexuality. This book is so aesthetically pleasing, and Lyndall's writing is very beautiful and captures all of your senses. You'll for sure get swept away by this one!

I have very mixed feelings on this one. While I enjoyed the writing, I feel like I was expecting something more. Was this okay ..sure, but hardly memorable. From the abusive father to the best friend becoming a mean girl… I don’t know. I also felt like the whole storyline of lark being kicked out of school due to the actions of her ‘friend’ went no where - the story plays out but I don’t know what the impact of that part of the story was supposed to mean. The romance here… I don’t know what to say you’re prewarned in the summary but it was just a bit weird.

Thanks for the chance to read early

“The worst hurt doesn’t always come with open violence. Instead, there is tenderness before you’re devoured”

Tenderly, I Am Devoured is the kind of book that will suck you into the dreamy, yet messed up world that exists within. Lyndall creates a work of art with her world building and lore that is addicting from the first page. The characters, the atmosphere, and the gods contained within this story are so ethereal and magical, yet somehow realistic. I loved every second and I cannot wait for others to get their hands on this book so they can devour it too.

Lacrimosa (Lark) is struggling to deal with her expulsion from school, the secrets of her family, and the mystery of the exorbitantly rich Felimath family that lives next door. Her family owes a significant debt to the Felimaths and Lark will do anything, even pledging herself to the chthonic god, Therion, to save her family home. Her relationship with the Felimath children, Alastair and Camille, has been tumultuous but when she must rely on their assistance to save her family, their situation slowly evolves. Will Lark be able to save her family home and maintain her relationship with the Felimaths?

This story explores classist ideals, family duty, bisexual polyamorous relationships, and the complicated existence of a teenage girl. This romantic, folk horror will keep you on your toes and will surprise you over and over. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a story that will haunt them long after they’re finished.

Thank you so much to Macmillan for access to the eARC!

ARC of Tenderly, I am Devoured by Lyndall Clipstone was a dreamy fall into stranger tides, sad girls gather here.

Dark Academia meets perhaps a conversation about the loyalty we feel to generational responsibility? Perhaps a coming of age? Perhaps a haunt of a different kind entirely? I felt the cobwebs in the corners throughout this read and I can imagine you will too as we bounce from past to present, puzzle piecing together a darkening poetic plot, and unfolding betrayal.

It's a dream like trance were in and while I understood the characters, and saw the whimsy, I wish I had more into the workings of the world and the stakes at play. While this one wasn't for me in every way, I have no doubt it certainly will recieve rave review. So if you want to walk the shores ghosts do this one might be for you!

Tenderly, I am Devoured is a captivating story of fantasy, mystery, and romance. It starts off at a slow pace, engulfing you in the main lead's world and mind. Vivid imagery is described in loving detail, you can tell the author cherishes the world she's built. Lacrimosa is introduced with intrigue, something has gone down in her life and you're immediately left wondering, where will the story go from there? What will we learn? How does this all tie in? Right off the bat, we're given a piece of tension between the MMC and FMC, there's some history there that is dying to be delved into. The author does an amazing job of describing Lacrimosa's history and past through the use of past and present chapters. We learn so much more of what makes Lacrimosa who she is and how her past has effected her presently.

Again, the world itself is vivid, and the different places this story takes place in are described in painstaking detail. I really love how the author has built up the world, even in locations we don't get to stay too long in, we are immediately greeted with an apt description of what makes that place so beautiful and unique, how it has character and stands out against the other elements of this story. From the sights to the scents, it's extremely satisfying immersing myself into this fantastical setting.

The characters themselves are unique in their own way, they all have this interesting history and the more you learn about them from the past, the more it is easier to understand why they are who they are in the present. The MMC, Alastair, felt like he was insufferable in the beginning. Lacrimosa was hurt very deeply by him and at first, we didn't have any idea why there was this intense tension from the get go. As the story progresses, we get more glimpses into Alastair's demeanor and progressively, there is a deeper understanding of his attitude and approach to Lacrimosa. Camille, the other FMC, is mysterious and there is an air of allure in that mystery. She's the opposite of Alastair and I really enjoyed the connection she had with Lacrimosa. The only thing I wish was that there was more of her in the past chapters, I wanted to know more about Lacrimosa's previous relationship with her, to get an even deeper understanding of their dynamic.

I really appreciated the way relationships were handled in this story, there was a tenderness there that you don't really see in many novels nowadays. Also, a really in-depth look at how it feels to be hurt by another, and how that can mentally effect someone. The author approached that subject carefully and showed a realistic approach to how someone, especially someone young would deal with that head on. The characters work well together and cherish each other deeply. I don't want to say too much or spoil too much as the dynamic is very well done and enjoyable to read as the story progresses. I think it's better to read it in its fullness and enjoy the progression throughout the story.

Overall, this was a lovely read, I would enjoy reading this over again just to engulf myself in Verse's world of gothic fantasy. I want to thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC, it was a pleasure and I appreciate the trust they extended to me.

Lyndall Clipstone's "Tenderly, I Am Devoured" falls perhaps slightly outside my typical literary preferences, but its potent gothic sensibilities immediately caught my attention, tapping into my appreciation for atmospheric and emotionally charged narratives.

The novel absolutely delivers on that front. Clipstone's prose is lush and evocative, creating a moody, almost dream-like world that feels both beautiful and deeply unsettling. I found the central characters – Lark, Alastair, and Camille – felt flawed and real within their intense, complicated relationships, making their entanglement with ancient chthonic gods and dangerous rituals utterly compelling.

Through this gothic lens, the story explores themes of sacrifice, legacy, and forbidden desire effectively. The narrative seems to prioritize this atmospheric immersion and emotional weight, allowing the plot to unfold at a measured pace that I felt suited the overall haunting style.

Ultimately, "Tenderly, I Am Devoured" struck me as a beautifully haunting and intoxicating read precisely because it masterfully executes that dark, poetic, atmospheric style. It’s a captivating example of gothic romantasy done with flair, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting swept up in it.


(Also I adore the title, it's so beautifully haunting and grotesquely romantic!)

3.5 ⭐️

This kind of book that sweeps you into a misty, salt-soaked fever dream, then leaves you blinking at the real world like you just stumbled out of a gothic painting. I dove into this expecting a lush, monstrous romantasy, and oh, did it deliver… mostly. It’s a haunting swirl of beauty and yearning, but it’s not without its stumbles. Buckle up, because I’m about to gush, gripe, and get a little snarky about this flower-threaded horror show.

First, let’s talk about the vibes. This book is *dripping* with atmosphere. Clipstone paints a coastal village so vivid I could practically taste the sea spray and feel the chill of the salt mines. The world building, with its chthonic gods and ritualistic weirdness, is straight up intoxicating. I’m a sucker for gothic anything, and this delivered in spades: crumbling manors, misty shores, and a swan god.

Lacrimosa (Lark, bless her) is our leading lady, and such a soft, tender soul. Not a “stab first, ask questions later” heroine, but a girl wrestling with betrayal, family duty, and a past that’s messier than my high school diary. Her journey from broken to brave had me cheering, especially when she’s navigating her tangled feelings for Alastair and Camille Felimath. Alastair, the arrogant ex-heartbreak, is all sharp edges and tortured devotion… catnip for my hopeless romantic side. Camille, his alluring older sister, is a warm, grounding force who made me want to curl up in her lap with a cup of tea. The polyamorous dynamic here is refreshing, never dipping into love triangle clichés. It’s messy, human, and so beautifully written I was giggling and kicking my feet at their chemistry. Like, can I join this trio? Please?

But here’s where I get a bit snarky. The pacing? Oof. The first 60% of the book moves slower than my mom in Wal-Mart. I kept waiting for the plot to kick into gear, and when it finally did, I was hooked… but that lag had me checking my phone more than I’d like to admit. Also, while the prose is gorgeous, it can feel repetitive. Clipstone loves her floral metaphors, and by the third “petal-strewn” description, I was like, “Okay, we get it, it’s pretty!” The world-building, while stunning, left me craving more meat on the bones of the chthonic gods’ lore. Therion’s Zeus-like swan-god shtick is cool, but I wanted to know *why* he’s such a big deal beyond being hot and ominous.

It felt a tad rushed, like when you’re late to a party and speed-run the goodbyes. I wanted more time to linger in the fallout.

Anyway, all in all, this is a dark, dreamy treat for anyone who loves gothic romance with a side of folk horror. While the pacing issues and a few overused phrases keep it from five-star glory—but it’s got heart, soul, and enough yearning to make you clutch your chest. I’m still swooning over Lark, Alastair, and Camille, and I’ll always be front and center for a good poly relationship.

Tenderly, I Am Devoured is a haunting and lyrical story of gods and men and salt and sea and longing and love and pain and forgiveness. Part fairy tale, part fever dream, this book pulls you in slowly and devours you whole (pun intended). Lyndall Clipstone immediately transports the reader to the world of Verse, its traditions, its gods, and its breathtaking views of the ocean.
And the characters. I care so fiercely for these characters. Soft but strong Lark, brooding and sad Alastair, tender and wild Camille. I love their relationship, how these characters are tied together.
I immediately want to watch Saltburn after reading this book because of the comparisons the author has drawn and because I am aching for more stories that match this aesthetic. It's giving Erin A. Craig's Sisters of the Salt series atmosphere mixed with the world of gods and men of Ruthless Vows and the seaside academic setting of A Study in Drowning.