The Demon of Beausoleil
by Mari Costa
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Pub Date 27 Jan 2026 | Archive Date 7 Jan 2026
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Description
Helianthes is a Cambion—a child born touched by demons. Horned, clawed, and tailed, Helianthes—Hell for short—is a devil-may-care exorcist whose devil-may-care attitude has succeeded in alienating those closest to him—all save for his long-suffering bodyguard, Elias, who sees him as less a strange, mythical being and more just a . . . nuisance.
Together, the two venture into the streets of this psuedo-remix of Victorian London to exorcise demons (and maybe cause a little mischief on the way). But as Hell becomes increasingly drawn to his enigmatic bodyguard—and as Elias becomes increasingly aware of his feelings for his trouble of a charge—the two find themselves faced with a growing, chaotic dark that might threaten everything they’ve been working toward . . .
A world of half-demons and the boys who love them await in this epic queer romance by writer/artist Mari Costa!
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9798894880341 |
| PRICE | US$24.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 312 |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 95 members
Featured Reviews
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!
This started off strong and just kept going from there. Hell is someone you are supposed to hate. But I never did. It’s obvious there was pain and resentment in his actions. He is a messy character who I just wanted to hug. There was trauma in his life that he didn’t know what to do. He and Elias were obviously dancing around each other and they were so freaking cute! I also really loved the art. Hell is so expressive. Being a half demon and being called Hell must be really weird, though. But honestly that ending made me tear up. And I loved how Hell was able to reconnect with his family!! Elias was the force of good he needed in his life. I loved this story and hope the creator has more on the way!
Reviewer 1391671
This is a sweetly romantic story about a young half demon who has been used, shamed, isolated, and hurt for so long that all he knows to do is hurt first and fast to avoid ever being seen as weak again. Everyone always assumes the worst of it him because of his half demon blood; obviously it’s Helianthe’s fault. It doesn’t help that, rather than be pitied, he’ll take the blame every time.
But when someone starts believing in him, seeing the loneliness and the hurt beneath the charming mask, seeing the flesh and blood person with a beating heart rather than the horns, teeth and claws, Hell has no idea what to do. The first person he fell in love with only wanted to fuck a demon, and everyone thereafter accuses a curse as their reason for panting after him. Cambions, after all, must be sluts, what with that demon blood.
Really, the romance in here is just so well done as Elias — the bodyguard hired by Hell's parents — falls for Hell, and then spends much of the book trying to keep Hell alive as he performs exorcisms, lashes out, and finally comes face to face with his toxic ex.
The world building is strong and clever, the pace is perfect, the art is charming, and this book is an excellent paranormal adventure, paranormal romance, and buddy adventure with excellent humor, character work, and plot. Please, please give this story a try!
Thank you so very much to Net Galley and the publisher for letting me have an ARC!
I got this as an arc on Netgalley and it will come out in January. Obsessed. This is a beautiful complex raw queer comic book about healing. The main character absolutely resonated with me. Loved it.
Chaotic, Romantic, & Utterly Enchanting!
Mari Costa delivers a queer fantasy graphic novel that is both chaotic and heartfelt. Following Helianthes, a cambion exorcist with a cavalier attitude, we learn quickly that most half-demons never make it past infancy. Hell has fallen on harder times of late; he was disowned and forced to fend for himself (with only a handsome bodyguard as his support), however, he is making the best of his experience. His case load continues to increase as he deals with demonic infestation, leading to a showdown with a blast from Hell's past.
This is one of the most adorable graphic novels that I have ever read. The writing and banter is witty and hysterical. The comedic relief flows off the page as we learn more about Hell and Elias. Elias is not a man of many words, but his actions start to really build one of the most delectable slow-burning romances I've read this year. This story examines who the real monsters are in a society in which they can walk freely. The heartfelt tone also makes the story feel that much more beautiful by the end. This is not a story to miss!
I will now need to read everything in Mari Costa's backlist. Phenomenal!!
This will definitely make my top ten for the year. A misunderstood Cambion and his shy giant bodyguard?? I need more of them immediately.
The color palette of the book was amazing, which is to be expected with Mari's books. It was also chock full of deep emotions that tugged at my heartstrings. The author did a brilliant job with making you care for the main characters, even if we are feeling conflicted. The main character isn't your typical "good guy" and I think that's what I loved most about this book. Even flawed people deserve to love and be loved.
5/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
LOVED this! OMG I love Elias and Helianthes so so much.
The art style is cute and very expressive. I’m also extremely partial towards color palettes that are mostly browns with an occasional pop of bright red.
I really loved Helianthes’ characterization, he has a lot of depth and I found him very compelling. He’s such a bitch, especially at the beginning but I absolutely ADORE him. I really liked Elias as a character too, though I do wish we got a little more of his backstory/inner conflict on page.
This was just absolutely delightful all around, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is even slightly interested by the blurb.
Hilary K, Librarian
Utterly charming, deliciously dark, and surprisingly romantic! I loved the art, particularly the vibrant expressions on Hell and Elias's faces. Hell's eyes told me exactly what he was thinking and feeling at every moment. A hilarious story about prejudice, acceptance, family, and love. (Also demons. And sex. And a three headed dog.)
I absolutely adored The Demon of Beausoleil. From the very first page, the artwork pulls you in - lush, expressive, and full of character. Costa’s style gives the story a cinematic richness, with every panel feeling deliberate and alive. The designs, facial expressions, and atmosphere are all so beautiful that I found myself lingering on panels just to take them in.
The story itself is equally strong - it never feels rushed or bare. The pacing is just right, giving space for the world and relationships to breathe. The dynamic between Hell (the half-demon exorcist) and Elias (his long-suffering bodyguard) is wickedly funny, tender, and constantly entertaining. Their banter, chemistry, and gradual growth feel so natural and earned. It’s the kind of relationship you root for from start to finish.
The world-building is rich but never heavy. There’s a balance of danger, humour, and heart that makes it impossible not to get swept up. The tone walks a perfect line between gothic drama and queer rom-com energy, and it does both effortlessly.
And I have to mention how much I appreciated the extras at the back - the bonus stories, sketches, and behind-the-scenes art were such a treat. They make the whole book feel even more special, giving a peek into Costa’s creative process and offering a few more moments with the characters I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to. It’s the kind of thoughtful addition that makes you feel cared for as a reader.
If I’m being picky, the only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars is because I wanted more - more of this world, more side character moments, just a bit more time with everyone. But that’s a good complaint to have.
Final thoughts: Beautiful artwork, beautiful characters, and a story that balances humour, heart, and heat with ease. Wickedly funny and genuinely heartfelt - this is one I’ll be recommending (and rereading) for a long time. I can’t wait to get this on my shelf in all its printed glory!
Thank you to Oni Press, Netgalley and Mari Costa for this stunning ARC to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Victoria B, Reviewer
This was so fun! I'm currently in my Graphic Novel/Comic Era, and I'm especially reading queer ones. So I was very excited to get approved for this one on Netgalley, thank you!
First of all, I loved the illustrations and the drawing style!
The story and characters also captured my heart. I think Hell is supposed to be a bit unlikely, but I think you quickly realize that there is more to him and his actions under the surface. In combination with Elias, I just loved their dynamic and also Elias is like a big Teddy Bear.
The story also had me, it has action, but also it's quiet moments. I just love reading about demon stuff, and the concept of the book was really interesting. Hell is a Cambion, a demon born child and it's very rare to see grown-up ones, cause they are said to bring bad luck, so you kind of know what happens to them. He is up to some mischief but I still had sympathy with him, it's witty and I had alot to laugh!
I can only recommend it and hope you will have as much fun as I did reading it!
Oh, I loved this one. Incredibly charming, stylish art, fantastic writing, and a great story. I loved the portrayal of how Helianthes was mirroring how he was treated back: always treated like a terrible demon, so he might as well live down to expectations. The romance developed so, so nicely (especially given that Elias didn't take any shit from him at all, which made the relationship feel so genuine) and it basically hit every beat I wanted it to at every point. This is one that I'll definitely want a physical copy of!
Thank you to Oni Press and to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a fun read! The art style is amazing and fits the story perfectly. I loved the dynamic between Hell and Elias and their banter was so good. They play off each other really well, which made the story even more enjoyable. The pacing kept things moving, and I never got bored.
Oh and the bonus chapters were stunning!
4.5 stars.
A half-demon disgraced socialite hunts demons with his new bodyguard, and feelings develop.
This was an incredibly charming graphic novel, with snappy dialogue and a lot of heart.
Helianthus, our half-demon, was hilarious, and I found myself chuckling a lot. The addition of his burly, taciturn bodyguard was a wonderful foil.
The illustrations felt very modern and captured the personalities of the subjects perfectly.
A lovely read.
Maita W, Librarian
I really adored this graphic novel. The art was very nice and nostalgic in a way with the sepia tones, with dramatic and fun pops of red. This was a very sweet romance and I had a lot of fun reading it
Librarian 1459507
I loved this! The story line between the two main characters had me thirsty for more. The art style is so whimsical and fun, yet dark. Love.
What an incredibly fun read this was. The characters took a front row seat with this book, and that was just how I liked it. Even though the plot was rather simplistic and I would have loved a bit more from the world building, this was so clearly a character-driven story and the characters were incredible. Our two main characters especially were just so wonderfully messy and flawed, but not once did they feel unlovable or uninteresting to read about. I loved following their story, their relationships, and their mistakes (of which there were many). Also, the ART. Incredible character designs aside, the look of this graphic novel was just perfect. Matched the tone wonderfully, was a great mix of gothic, endearing, and sexy, and just served the story so well. Also the amount of extras we got at the end felt like such a treat, especially for someone who loves a good epilogue indulgence where I get to see where and how all the characters end up! Would not be mad at ALL if this become a longer series, as I would follow these two through hell and back.
I loved "The Demon of Beausoleil." This book is cheeky, fantastical, and even a bit sentimental. The dynamics between the characters are exciting and tender, and I was just waaaaiiiiiiting for the moment Helianthes was finally able to put his guard down. I highly recommend this graphic novel to fans of "Arcana: The Lost Heirs."
This book includes:
- demons performing exorcisms
- broken hearts
- backstabbing
- bias and prejudice
- masks
I received this eBook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, Mari Costa, and Oni Press for the opportunity to review this book.
A heartwarming story with a great balance of action, drama, and romance. I was impressed with how complex the characters could be in so few pages!
The art was absolutely beautiful and I loved the use of colour and art style variations. The panels were well designed and easy to follow. It really made me appreciate graphic novels again!
Aila S, Reviewer
This is a delightful graphic novel about the adventures of Helianthes, a demonic changeling child of the wealthy Beausoleil family, and his bodyguard Elias. This really was just an absolute joy to read. The story strikes just the right mix of funny and heartfelt that makes for a compelling story. Helianthes is an absolute prick and just overall unpleasant person, yet you’ll still be left rooting for him (and his bodyguard ✨with benefits✨) by the end. The art is lovely and does a great job of telling the story. I especially loved how expressive the characters’ faces are. I just loved this, 10/10 no notes.
Reviewer 1884900
I absolutely adored this graphic novel! let me try to explain why
the art is beautiful, with detailed and gothic character designs and a minimal palette style that utilises colour contrast for clarity and effect. its a very easy reading experience, and their expressions and mannerism were SO good - the kind that's can convey more than words.
all the characters have brilliant depth, even the supporting cast. the chemistry between the main two characters had me squealing, and their banter and dialogue was sublime. you're in for a treat if you like the chaotic little gremlin and big buff stoic counterpart dynamic. my only other note here is that its a little sexual (not explicit), so I would be reluctant to recommend to a very young audience.
the plot is interesting and more complex than expected, yet flowed organically. a shunned part-demon exorcist and his bodyguard exorcises demons and maybe catches feels?? what's not to love? plus, it's one of those LGBTQIA+ stories where being queer isn't a plot device or the issue - thank you Costa for that. the extra stories and art at the end where we get to see the daily lives of the main characters after the conflict of the story is over was the cherry on the top.
I would recommend to anyone who likes fantasy, LGBTQ+, drama and romance. very cute
reading this felt like a real treat, I'm so grateful to NetGalley, Oni Press and Mari Costa for this eArc for my honest review
This was such a fun story. A sensitive but spitfire cambion, a beleaguered but loyal bodyguard, and an adorable dog named Cerberus to top it all off. We get to see vulnerability, growth, and demon exorcisms. The art was cute, the plot was great, and the romance was just as good. I highly recommend folks check this out once it is released.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Grumpy sunshine but a demon twink and his beefy bodyguard.I loved the story, the illustration, and character development. A little religious intrigue, a little family drama, a lot of fun.
Librarian 888658
Costa created an absolute gem of a graphic novel. Our main character, Hell, is toes the line of being endearing and a jerk so well. You can tell he is hiding hurt and pain by acting out, as well as his feelings for his bodyguard, Elias. It's a nontraditional love story told between exorcisms and demon possessions. There is a larger story regarding someone from Hell's past, but the story is mostly about Hell and his version of redemption. The art style is perfect for this story and Victorian setting, which the coloring leading to sepia toned comic with pops of red to add to the supernatural setting.
Thank you to Netgalley and Oni Press for access to the digital ARC.
Reviewer 1600053
Mari Costa’s The Demon of Beausoleil is one of those rare books that manages to be wickedly charming, emotionally resonant, and irresistibly fun all at once. A lush, queer, demon-kissed Victorian remix with heart to spare, this graphic novel (and romance) shines brightest in the fiery tension between its two leads—and in Costa’s ability to blend humor, longing, and supernatural stakes with effortless style.
Helianthes—Hell to friends and foes alike—is a half-demon exorcist whose horns, claws, tail, and unruly personality have pushed almost everyone away. Everyone except Elias, his stoic and ever-suffering bodyguard, who treats Hell less like a threat and more like a very troublesome responsibility. Their dynamic is pure narrative gold: snarky banter, smoldering looks, unresolved tension thick enough to cut with a blessed silver dagger.
As the pair work their way through demon infestations in a stylishly reimagined Victorian London, Costa intertwines supernatural action with a slow-burn romance that feels both tender and electric. Every exorcism brings them closer; every bit of mischief Hell causes cracks Elias’s carefully guarded composure. Watching these two emotionally constipated disaster men orbit each other is deeply satisfying—and incredibly moving once the emotional walls start to crumble.
Costa’s worldbuilding is equally enchanting. Beausoleil is atmospheric and moody, full of shadowed alleys and flickering gas lamps, but it never feels oppressive. Instead, it becomes the perfect backdrop for a story about identity, acceptance, and the possibility of love in the face of inner (and outer) demons. The artwork—rich, expressive, and brimming with personality—elevates the narrative even further.
What truly sets The Demon of Beausoleil apart, though, is the balance of tone: it’s funny without ever undercutting its emotion, romantic without slipping into melodrama, and action-packed without losing sight of character. The growing darkness threatening their world is compelling, but the real magic lies in watching Hell and Elias slowly, reluctantly, beautifully fall for each other.
Reviewer 1328493
Delightfully devilish. Surprisingly wholesome.
This queer fantasy-romance graphic novel follows Helianthes (half-demon exorcist) and his body guard Elias as they fight evils and their ever-growing attraction to each other.
I found the romance to be sweet, the banter to be witty, and the artistic style to be superb. The characters are diverse, it’s sex-worker friendly, the plot has substance/emotional weight, and there’s character development. It checks off all the boxes!
I would recommend this to all of my friends.
Thank you to NetGalley for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jennifer B, Reviewer
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
I really really enjoyed this! The art style is really nice, and I loved the relationship between the two main characters, as well as between them and the people around them. There's a lot that can be read into Hell's experience, whether that be queerness, disability, or other forms of marginalisation - his experience is likely to resonate with anyone who has ever been outcast for an inherent part of who they are. As a queer, disabled person, I definitely relate to the "born wrong" feeling Hell experiences and continues to have pushed upon him by his environment, as well as the desire to just "give up" and be (what is perceived by the majority public to be) bad. Quite a relatable, and somewhat touching, aspect that I didn't originally expect from a mutual simping gay demon graphic novel, especially as it started with a sex scene, which I thought would set the tone for this work (but didn't).
Definitely recommend this to anyone who doesn't mind seeing a butt every now and then.
Reviewer 767949
This was a breath of fresh air! We follow Hell, a cambion (half demon) as he travels across town exercising demons with his bodyguard, Elias. Hell has recently be disinherited and must find honest work. So the two work together to defeat all that's thrown at them.
The art style was fun, well done, and the color choice was beautiful and fit the story so well! I very much enjoyed the narrative of this and getting to see why our characters were the way they are. I loved the heartfelt moments and the family reunion at the end. All in all an enjoyable time! Highly recommend if you are looking for a fun, feel-good, graphic novel!
Julia S, Bookseller
Mari Costa doesn’t disappoint, they have a way of writing really satisfying graphic novels. I often feel like I never quite know the characters as well as I want to in graphic novels, I mean you only have so many pages to get to know them and do the plot. Costa however excels at giving me the connection to the characters I crave and pulling off a satisfying plot and ending.
The art, as always, is fantastic, the subtle expressions and use of colour always amazes me. I can’t wait to read whatever is next from Mari Costa!
Thank you Oni Press and NetGalley for the ARC
Ooooooh this was an excellent reading! I loved everything about this.
Loved the style, the way the characters are visualized, the color palette, the little expressions, mostly on Hell, him peeking out or looking up at Elias, so expressive and so so fun. I think I laughed so much at certain panels. (And honestly I was already laughing out loud when the comic starts with a sex scene, right from the jump haha)
The story was fun and engaging, with elements and visuals of Gothic style, throw a little Victorian visuals also in but it all worked perfectly. The big spreads, specially once they enter whats-his-face second home in the party with Ash... *chef's kiss* I want that print on my wall.
Hell is also incredibly interesting and I loved the, I would say, the moral side of the story and how sometimes we turn into villains because the world (and humans) have made us that way but sometimes all it takes is someone to see us and see through us, just like Elias did with Hell.
Honestly, I just recommend this for a good time: you will laugh, you will feel things and you will definitely love the art style.
I love queer graphic novels that have a distinct art style and "The Demon of Beausoleil" combines that wonderfully.
From the start on we get an interesting characterization of Hell and his bodyguard. Even if Hell seems like an unbearable kind of person we can soon realize that he is formed by his experiences. I really liked how his past was unveiled continually and how we can realize how Elias got deep feelings for Hell.
With the great color pallet and the comic relief through the art it was an enjoyable read made me giggle often.
I hope Mari Costa will publish many other graphic novels because I want more!
Rose M, Librarian
I loved the relationship between Helianthes and Elias and seeing their bond of trust grow throughout the novel. Their banter is one of the stronger aspects of this book and keeps the two MCs in close orbit without being overwhelming or senseless. While Elias’ feelings are very upfront for the reader, Yanthe’s were more subdued and gave him room to grow throughout the book instead of rushing at the end. Additionally the plot was concise and grew upon itself well to the ending.
I love that the bonus stories serve as an epilogue and let us know where Yanthe and Elias will go from here!
I looooooved this graphic novel!! I wish wish wish there was another volume or a sequel because I want to live with these characters for longer than the time I got with them.
This was such a fun arc and I had an amazing time with it. Hell is incredibly gender and I loved the character growth as well as the fact they weren’t necessarily likeable - at least not to start with. The bonus scenes included at the end convinced me I could read any situation about these characters and adore it. It felt kind of fanfic-y in the best possible way and the art is absolutely gorgeous.
I also present for your consideration: the concept of Hell’s borzoi doing the “didn’t I do it for you?” TikTok trend. That is all.
I have to say I adored everything about this comic. The mix of Victorian-esque setting with demons and a half demon. I loved Elias and Helianthes and their dynamic in the comic. The art is fantastic and the story pacing is great too. There’s a nice balance of action, occult and mischief along the way. If you enjoy interesting and fun stories, with wonderful characters and a sprinkling of romance.
Reviewer 553034
The Demon of Beausoleil is probably one of my favorite titles NetGalley has ever sent me, and I already know I’d love to own a physical copy when it releases, especially because the cover is absolutely gorgeous.
From the very beginning, this book was just fun. I was fully engaged the entire time, enjoying myself and thinking, “okay, this is cool,” in the best possible way. The plot itself is more balanced and character-driven than fast-paced which works perfectly for this story.
Helianthes and Elias were such a refreshing pair. They don’t fall into the same tired tropes I see over and over again in fantasy romance, and they genuinely felt like three-dimensional people. Helianthes in particular hit one of my favorite character types: the full-on nuisance. A menace to society who seems to delight in pushing buttons. At the start, it’s mostly Helianthes poking and provoking while Elias refuses to take the bait and then, as the story goes on, Elias starts giving it right back. Watching that shift was incredibly satisfying.
As their dynamic develops, that antagonistic energy naturally softens into something warmer and more tender, without losing the playful edge. And Elias pining? Absolutely delicious. Loved watching him fall.
One unexpected highlight was realizing the author is Brazilian, which made it such a delightful surprise when Elias suddenly started speaking Portuguese. I almost never encounter Portuguese “in the wild,” so it immediately stood out. The cursing was easily my favorite part, “Filho da puta, I fucking hate demons” lives rent-free in my head.
I also really loved the art style. Helianthes is supposed to be this alluring half-demon, but instead of being designed to be conventionally “hot,” his design leans more cartoon-network imp than seductive demon. And that choice works beautifully. He’s alluring because he’s magnetic because of who he is, not what he looks like, which I found genuinely refreshing.
Overall, this book stands out among other fantasy romance titles because of how interesting its characters and their dynamic are. I’d highly recommend this to anyone looking for a fun queer story, especially if you’re tired of reading the same kinds of things and want something that feels new.
Costa does not disappoint! The illustrations are stark, vivid and captivating, which matches the energy of the story being told. It’s supernatural meets Victorian meets cheeky little half-Demon git Helianthes and his pining bodyguard Elias, and I enjoyed this read so much. The blurb does the book justice in that yes this is a queer epic of half-demons and the boys who love them and we love it.
Hell is kind of a tortured character and I couldn’t dislike them despite their actions and bad decisions. Elias is the reader honestly, drawn in but aware that Hell is a complete bellend/tosser/git/AH etc., and he still likes him regardless.
Overall, an engaging plot, 3D characters, humour, sexy times, growth <spoiler> and bonus content for after the main arc ends</spoiler>. What more could a reader want?
Thanks NetGalley and Oni Press for this free arc/copy of The Demon of Beausoleil; all opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
LOOOOOVED the style of this graphic novel. The characters were funny, the dialogue witty and I read the whole thing in one sitting.
It's been a while since I liked a graphic novel this much. Hell is really charming and I absolutely loved Elias' pining, they were both so cute for one another.
The setting is also uite unique and I liked the magic system, even if I had trouble understanding it at first.
I loved the extras a lot, it really helped with the character development of Hell I'd say. Although I still wish that the plotline with Ash had been a little longer.
Hence, 4.5/5 rounded up!
Florentina G, Bookseller
To say I liked it would be an understatement, I truly loved this story.
Great banter, sarcasm and paranormal / demonic activity count me in.
The story is set in a victorian-ish setting and follows Helianthe (Hell) who gets disowned by his family and has to get a job, and what better job would a half-demon choose than being an exorcist? His bodyguard and companion, Elias soon discovers that there might be another motivation to keep Hell save.
Beautiful art-style, great character design, lots of mischief and romance.
A great read for the spooky season, fans of Helluva Boss or everything demonic.
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