Reviewed by: Sue Eaton
TITLE: King’s Obsession
SERIES: Obsession #5
AUTHOR: Lisa Oliver & JP Sayle
PUBLISHER: Self Published
LENGTH: 276 pages
RELEASE DATE: May 4, 2025
BLURB:
Centuries ago, an epic love story began between the king demon and a troll in the human realm. But can it survive when one lover doesn’t trust what his heart knows, and before the other’s patience runs out?
Racked with grief, King Asmodeus enters the forest through a secret portal from the demon realm. When he encounters a troll, his life will never be the same again. How can Asmodeus trust something he doesn’t understand? Despite his fear of their connection, he’s unable to stay away from his troll. Their connection is immediate, and he wants to know why that is. A quest that endures for centuries.
Dougal has the patience of a saint, which comes in handy when nurturing both the forest he lives in and the love of his life. One encounter with Asmodeus is all it takes for him to understand what they are to each other—and to realize Asmodeus needs time to figure that out.
When Asmodeus witnesses unequivocal bonds—blissful ones—for demons, Dougal decides he’s had enough. He issues Asmodeus with an ultimatum—accept what they mean to each other, or leave and never come back.
Will Asmodeus come to his senses before it’s too late?
REVIEW:
The final book in this series tells the story of King Asmodeus, a demon, and Dougal, a troll, whose lives intertwine in an epic love story spanning centuries. Asmodeus struggles to trust his heart and understand their connection, while Dougal patiently nurtures their bond.
Asmodeus’s hesitation in accepting their bond stems from his internal struggles and emotional barriers. Being a demon, he is burdened by a lifetime of mistrust, painful experiences, and doubts about his own capacity to love and be loved. These fears make it difficult for him to fully embrace the deep connection he shares with Dougal. The story dives into Asmodeus’s journey of self-discovery and emotional growth, exploring the complexity of overcoming such barriers to find happiness and trust in a relationship. Dougal is incredibly patient and understanding because he deeply believes in the bond they share. He recognizes that Asmodeus’s struggles are rooted in past pain and fears, and he genuinely wants to give him the space and time he needs to work through them. Dougal’s love for Asmodeus is unconditional, and he hopes that by being supportive rather than pressuring him, Asmodeus will eventually come to accept and embrace their connection. It’s a testament to Dougal’s compassion and resilience, but it also highlights the emotional toll of waiting and the difficult balance between patience and self-preservation.
Asmodeus is a complex and deeply layered character. As a demon, he exudes power and confidence on the surface, but beneath that exterior he is haunted by past pain and mistrust. He’s guarded, reluctant to let anyone get too close, and struggles with vulnerability. Yet, his journey reveals a capacity for growth and an underlying yearning to connect and feel love, even if it terrifies him. This duality makes him an intriguing and dynamic character—strong yet wounded, aloof yet yearning. His evolution over the story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The length of time Asmodeus takes in trying to work out their bond and his feelings is ridiculous; centuries pass and it’s like Asmodeus is stuck unable to move forward towards Dougal.
Dougal is a kind-hearted and steadfast character, embodying patience and unwavering loyalty. As a troll, he might not fit the stereotypical image people associate with trolls—he’s warm, empathetic, and deeply committed to those he cares about. Dougal’s strength lies in his ability to offer love and support without conditions, even when faced with Asmodeus’s emotional barriers. His compassion and resilience shine as he navigates the challenges of their bond, always holding onto hope. He’s also no pushover—while patient, Dougal knows his own worth demonstrating his inner strength and self-respect.
Dougal eventually issues an ultimatum, urging Asmodeus to accept their relationship or leave forever. This is a pivotal moment for Asmodeus when he faces the very real possibility of losing Dougal. Dougal’s ultimatum forces Asmodeus to confront his fears and vulnerabilities head-on. It’s a dramatic turning point where Asmodeus realizes the depth of his feelings and the consequences of allowing his emotional barriers to dominate his life.
This moment pushes him toward self-reflection and growth, ultimately leading him to embrace their bond and the love he has long resisted.
The group of demons and their mates, from the previous books, play a significant role in helping Dougal and Asmodeus navigate their challenges. Their approach is a blend of tough love, heartfelt support, and shared experiences. These characters, having gone through their own struggles in accepting bonds and relationships, use their wisdom to guide Asmodeus and Dougal.
They offer Asmodeus perspective, helping him see that vulnerability and trust are strengths, not weaknesses. By sharing their own journeys, they highlight the joys and fulfillment that come with accepting love. On the other hand, they encourage Dougal to set healthy boundaries, reminding him that love is a two-way street and that he deserves someone who embraces their connection fully.
Their collective presence creates a safe yet firm space for Dougal and Asmodeus to confront their fears and emotions, gently steering them toward a resolution. It’s a beautifully woven dynamic that emphasizes the power of community and understanding.
RATING: 
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