What do you think?
Rate this book
A Monstrous World #1
The Monster's Den
Emerson Parker is exhausted. She spends her days chasing around her high energy, half-shifter toddler and her nights working full-time trying to make ends meet.
...oh, and add in the absolute cluster of a situation her ex dumped in her lap on his way out?
Well, that's just icing on the cake.
With virtually no options left, Emerson heads for Haven, a sanctuary city for monsters and humans alike. Survival means taking a job at The Monster's Den - a club that caters to the inhuman residents of her new home.
But freedom comes with complications of its own: delusional monsters dead set on inserting themselves into her life and her bed.
With the North American Alpha hot on her heels and monsters standing in his way...
Will it be enough to keep Emerson and her daughter safe?
...oh, and add in the absolute cluster of a situation her ex dumped in her lap on his way out?
Well, that's just icing on the cake.
With virtually no options left, Emerson heads for Haven, a sanctuary city for monsters and humans alike. Survival means taking a job at The Monster's Den - a club that caters to the inhuman residents of her new home.
But freedom comes with complications of its own: delusional monsters dead set on inserting themselves into her life and her bed.
With the North American Alpha hot on her heels and monsters standing in his way...
Will it be enough to keep Emerson and her daughter safe?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2023
1960 people are currently reading
3999 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 813 reviews
December 14, 2023
This is one of the best paranormal reverse harems I have read! It is definitely a smut first plot second story but I honestly loved every minute of it. The characters and monsters were diverse and swoon-worthy and I loved the single-mother dynamics and how it developed the story. The harem features an incubus who is all about pleasure, a virgin alpha hellhound shifter who is in charge, an ancient vampire who loves to talk dirty, and a stoic gargoyle who just wants to protect the women he loves. The only thing I didn't love about this book, is the way the FMC acted in regards to how things played out, she was happy to ask questions later and let the men take charge most times, which didn't really fit with her personality.
May 2, 2023
Not humorous
A single mom, abandoned during pregnancy, and instead of the alpha protecting a pack mate's child he decides to prey on the mom? Ok. So some people are just monsters, even if they're completely human. But she runs, gets a new job, one only desperate moms take because CPS is a real thing that breaks up families just trying to survive, and these guys call her "audition" for the job a date? Ew. They're no better than the other predatory alpha. This is in no way humorous or lighthearted. The mom is completely at their mercy. They could have fronted her a loan, taken some out of her check in fees. Heck, they recognize their mate but because they don't want a mate are willing to let her dangle on the wind, exhausted, desperate and frantic. But when the one tries to get the other to audition her role as a new employee and calls it a date is when I throw in the towel. Especially after the other already auditioned her, ew, and then said she failed because he caught feels and she is still thinking this is a job interview that she needs to protect her kid. There isn't a redeeming guy in the whole batch. Disgusting predatory jerks. I hope the witch binds them to a lonely existence, they cast a spell to win a low payout lottery, curse the nasty alpha (who apparently keeps a harem of women he rents out like a pimp to his enforcers, just gross) to a supernatural crotch rot that there's no cure for and they dance off into the sunset to spoil the baby rotten and live their best life. How this is called a humorous story is baffling. Human trafficking- or, well, since all the women aren't human per se- body trafficking, predatory employment- because even if you let the ladies pick their clients you still expect to make money off their bodies, cowardly hiding from mates, pregnancy abandonment, using women's bodies as a reward for loyalty, ... It all adds up to ick not ha ha.
If you're going to write something as controversial as s*x work into a story, don't hide the warnings. Put it in the blurb and give readers an actual choice. And don't couch a desperate situation as something humorous. It isn't. She doesn't have to be rescued, she's a grown woman, but don't make her so called protectors as predatory as the jerk she's running from. That doesn't make for romance. It's just more abuse.
A single mom, abandoned during pregnancy, and instead of the alpha protecting a pack mate's child he decides to prey on the mom? Ok. So some people are just monsters, even if they're completely human. But she runs, gets a new job, one only desperate moms take because CPS is a real thing that breaks up families just trying to survive, and these guys call her "audition" for the job a date? Ew. They're no better than the other predatory alpha. This is in no way humorous or lighthearted. The mom is completely at their mercy. They could have fronted her a loan, taken some out of her check in fees. Heck, they recognize their mate but because they don't want a mate are willing to let her dangle on the wind, exhausted, desperate and frantic. But when the one tries to get the other to audition her role as a new employee and calls it a date is when I throw in the towel. Especially after the other already auditioned her, ew, and then said she failed because he caught feels and she is still thinking this is a job interview that she needs to protect her kid. There isn't a redeeming guy in the whole batch. Disgusting predatory jerks. I hope the witch binds them to a lonely existence, they cast a spell to win a low payout lottery, curse the nasty alpha (who apparently keeps a harem of women he rents out like a pimp to his enforcers, just gross) to a supernatural crotch rot that there's no cure for and they dance off into the sunset to spoil the baby rotten and live their best life. How this is called a humorous story is baffling. Human trafficking- or, well, since all the women aren't human per se- body trafficking, predatory employment- because even if you let the ladies pick their clients you still expect to make money off their bodies, cowardly hiding from mates, pregnancy abandonment, using women's bodies as a reward for loyalty, ... It all adds up to ick not ha ha.
If you're going to write something as controversial as s*x work into a story, don't hide the warnings. Put it in the blurb and give readers an actual choice. And don't couch a desperate situation as something humorous. It isn't. She doesn't have to be rescued, she's a grown woman, but don't make her so called protectors as predatory as the jerk she's running from. That doesn't make for romance. It's just more abuse.
April 26, 2023
WARNING I CAN’T BELIEVE THIS AUTHOR..
IS NEW TO PARANORMAL BECAUSE THIS BOOK IS ONE OF THE BEST, MOST AMAZINGLY WRITTEN PARANORMAL REVERSE HAREMS I HAVE EVER READ. ASAP. AND NOT ONLY AS A PARANORMAL RH BUT ALSO ONE OF THE BEST RH PERIOD BECAUSE I THINK WEST COULD WRITE CONTEMPORARY RH AND MAKE IT WONDERFUL TOO BUT LETS FOCUS ON THIS BOOK FOR NOW BECAUSE WOW IS IT MAGICAL. AND I READ 7-10 BOOKS A WEEK SO TO SAY ITS A TOP CONTENDER OUT OF ALL I HAVE EVER READ IS A BIG DEAL FOR ME. WE NEED MORE OF THIS AS A SERIES, LIKE, YESTERDAY, PRETTY PLEASE !!!!!!!!!!!!!
SERIOUSLY I STAYED UP ALL NIGHT EVEN KNOWING THE EARLY MORNING / BUSY DAY I HAD AHEAD OF ME BECAUSE I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN.
RH HAS GOTTEN TOO DARK LATELY. ITS OVERFILLED WITH DARK ACADEMY AND BULLY ROMANCES. I HONESTLY STARTED TO GIVE UP ON THE GENRE ALL TOGETHER.
THEN I FOUND A FEW GREAT ONES, THIS BEING ONE OF THE BEST, THAT WERE ABLE TO BRILLIANTLY COMBINE ACTION / ADVENTURE / SUSPENSE / DRAMA WITH COMEDY AND A SWEETNESS TO IT THAT YOU HAVE TO READ FOR YOURSELF TO UNDERSTAND, WHICH BRAVO WEST CONSIDERING THE PLOT ITS INCREDIBLE HOW YOU SPUN IT INTO SUCH A FUN JOYFUL EXPERIENCE THAT HAD A PERMA SMILE ON MY FACE WHENEVER I WASNT DROOLING FROM LUST OVERLOAD LIKE ID BEEN BREATHING THE BLUEISH PINK GOODNESS.
BECAUSE THATS RIGHT FOLLS, ALL THAT IS EVEN COMBINED WITH OFF THE CHARTS STEAM AND MONSTER K*NK*NESS THAT WILL MELT YOUR PHONE ITS SO HOT.
*FANS SELF* CHEFS KISS. PLUS THE CHARACTERS ARE BEYOND LOVABLE.
NOT TO MENTION HOW GREAT OF A JOB THIS AUTHOR DID WITH THE MOTHER AND CHILD RELATIONSHIP AND REALITY OF RAISING A TODDLER EVEN A HALF SHIFTER HALF HUMAN ONE. THE GOOD THE BAD THE UGLY THE BEAUTIFUL AND ALL THE SASSY CUTENESS KISSES CUDDLES IN BETWEEN. I ALSO LOVE THAT IT WAS A HUMAN MOM WITH A HALF SHIFTER BABY FROM ANOTHER DEADBEAT SHIFTER BECAUSE I HAVE NEVER READ A STORY WITH A SINGLE HUMAN MOM IN THIS KIND OF SCENARIO OUTSIDE OF THEM WITH THEIR MATES OF COURSE OR WITH A FULL HUMAN KID. SO THAT WAS A REALLY COOL TAKE ON THIS TROPE AS WELL.
WAIT WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE ? GO READ THIS RIGHT NOW. FORGET SLEEP. THIS IS TOO GOOD TO PASS UP.
MORE PLEASE JILLIAN WEST WE NEED MORE !!!!!!!!!
IS NEW TO PARANORMAL BECAUSE THIS BOOK IS ONE OF THE BEST, MOST AMAZINGLY WRITTEN PARANORMAL REVERSE HAREMS I HAVE EVER READ. ASAP. AND NOT ONLY AS A PARANORMAL RH BUT ALSO ONE OF THE BEST RH PERIOD BECAUSE I THINK WEST COULD WRITE CONTEMPORARY RH AND MAKE IT WONDERFUL TOO BUT LETS FOCUS ON THIS BOOK FOR NOW BECAUSE WOW IS IT MAGICAL. AND I READ 7-10 BOOKS A WEEK SO TO SAY ITS A TOP CONTENDER OUT OF ALL I HAVE EVER READ IS A BIG DEAL FOR ME. WE NEED MORE OF THIS AS A SERIES, LIKE, YESTERDAY, PRETTY PLEASE !!!!!!!!!!!!!
SERIOUSLY I STAYED UP ALL NIGHT EVEN KNOWING THE EARLY MORNING / BUSY DAY I HAD AHEAD OF ME BECAUSE I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN.
RH HAS GOTTEN TOO DARK LATELY. ITS OVERFILLED WITH DARK ACADEMY AND BULLY ROMANCES. I HONESTLY STARTED TO GIVE UP ON THE GENRE ALL TOGETHER.
THEN I FOUND A FEW GREAT ONES, THIS BEING ONE OF THE BEST, THAT WERE ABLE TO BRILLIANTLY COMBINE ACTION / ADVENTURE / SUSPENSE / DRAMA WITH COMEDY AND A SWEETNESS TO IT THAT YOU HAVE TO READ FOR YOURSELF TO UNDERSTAND, WHICH BRAVO WEST CONSIDERING THE PLOT ITS INCREDIBLE HOW YOU SPUN IT INTO SUCH A FUN JOYFUL EXPERIENCE THAT HAD A PERMA SMILE ON MY FACE WHENEVER I WASNT DROOLING FROM LUST OVERLOAD LIKE ID BEEN BREATHING THE BLUEISH PINK GOODNESS.
BECAUSE THATS RIGHT FOLLS, ALL THAT IS EVEN COMBINED WITH OFF THE CHARTS STEAM AND MONSTER K*NK*NESS THAT WILL MELT YOUR PHONE ITS SO HOT.
*FANS SELF* CHEFS KISS. PLUS THE CHARACTERS ARE BEYOND LOVABLE.
NOT TO MENTION HOW GREAT OF A JOB THIS AUTHOR DID WITH THE MOTHER AND CHILD RELATIONSHIP AND REALITY OF RAISING A TODDLER EVEN A HALF SHIFTER HALF HUMAN ONE. THE GOOD THE BAD THE UGLY THE BEAUTIFUL AND ALL THE SASSY CUTENESS KISSES CUDDLES IN BETWEEN. I ALSO LOVE THAT IT WAS A HUMAN MOM WITH A HALF SHIFTER BABY FROM ANOTHER DEADBEAT SHIFTER BECAUSE I HAVE NEVER READ A STORY WITH A SINGLE HUMAN MOM IN THIS KIND OF SCENARIO OUTSIDE OF THEM WITH THEIR MATES OF COURSE OR WITH A FULL HUMAN KID. SO THAT WAS A REALLY COOL TAKE ON THIS TROPE AS WELL.
WAIT WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE ? GO READ THIS RIGHT NOW. FORGET SLEEP. THIS IS TOO GOOD TO PASS UP.
MORE PLEASE JILLIAN WEST WE NEED MORE !!!!!!!!!
April 5, 2023
Love it
I really loved this. One entire story totally wrapped up. The smut! Bejesus! The men, fan yourself ladies. This entire read is just hot. The storyline is adorable, and we get a great HEA. Hope there is more on the other characters from this story.
I really loved this. One entire story totally wrapped up. The smut! Bejesus! The men, fan yourself ladies. This entire read is just hot. The storyline is adorable, and we get a great HEA. Hope there is more on the other characters from this story.
April 18, 2023
YES YES YES.
There’s no better feeling then reading a book and having no expectations of it and it being absolutely amazing! I read this book on a whim and I’ve never even read anything by this author before but I’ll definitely be reading more from them after this.
When reading paranormal books I’m not a huge fan of super heavy/plot driven books but this was super low angst and was such an easy read.
There was so many little cute moments that I couldn’t stop swooning at. When reading why choose I typically always favour one of the men but everytime I read a chapter from someone’s perceptive my favourite would constantly change. The men were also super distinct from each other so I never got confused with who’s who which can often happen in why choose books.
I do feel like the ending was slightly abrupt and me being greedy just wanted more time with these characters!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Exhibitionist/voyeurism
Breeding
Fmc sex worker
Single mum
Paranormal
Why choose
Tail play
Praise
Plus size fmc
Virgin mmc
Low angst
There’s no better feeling then reading a book and having no expectations of it and it being absolutely amazing! I read this book on a whim and I’ve never even read anything by this author before but I’ll definitely be reading more from them after this.
When reading paranormal books I’m not a huge fan of super heavy/plot driven books but this was super low angst and was such an easy read.
There was so many little cute moments that I couldn’t stop swooning at. When reading why choose I typically always favour one of the men but everytime I read a chapter from someone’s perceptive my favourite would constantly change. The men were also super distinct from each other so I never got confused with who’s who which can often happen in why choose books.
I do feel like the ending was slightly abrupt and me being greedy just wanted more time with these characters!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Exhibitionist/voyeurism
Breeding
Fmc sex worker
Single mum
Paranormal
Why choose
Tail play
Praise
Plus size fmc
Virgin mmc
Low angst
March 28, 2023
Single parent books aren't my favorite trope, but this was fun and an interesting take on monster romance.
Initially I expected the monsters to be more creatures than supernatural species, but I did love the characters. I feel like a lot of plots get reused by authors and this was new and refreshing. The human bites first is such an cute idea! I liked that Ember was part of their world but Emerson was human.
What you'll find:
Breeding Kink
Pregnancy in the epilogue
Biting and blood sharing
Mating bites
Swoon worthy moments with monsters and a toddler
What you wont:
No MM
No bullying
No cheating
No third act break up
Initially I expected the monsters to be more creatures than supernatural species, but I did love the characters. I feel like a lot of plots get reused by authors and this was new and refreshing. The human bites first is such an cute idea! I liked that Ember was part of their world but Emerson was human.
What you'll find:
Breeding Kink
Pregnancy in the epilogue
Biting and blood sharing
Mating bites
Swoon worthy moments with monsters and a toddler
What you wont:
No MM
No bullying
No cheating
No third act break up
May 31, 2023
I loved the banter and humor in this book. It was 10/10 and exactly what I needed. The spice was also not slept on, I didn't get bored as it was kept interesting and dispersed throughout the plot. I do feel like we got hints of possible future book set in this world to come, and I really hope that's true.
Possible Small Epilogue Spoiler ahead:
Possible Small Epilogue Spoiler ahead:
November 16, 2025
I really disliked the first 30% of this book but then it was pretty good!
August 27, 2023
Do the Monster Mash.....or is it smash?!
Quirky, cute, smutty.
So did I like it? You bet I did!
Quirky, cute, smutty.
So did I like it? You bet I did!
May 12, 2023
I don't even really know what I just read. This book went way different than I was expecting from the synopsis. Maybe because I recently finished Not Many Options that I thought I would get some of the same vibes as that one. Nope.
This was giving homie hopper. Plain and simple. The plot was barely touched on and Emerson was hardly with her own daughter. Homegirl spent more time getting railed than actually being a mom.
If you just want a erotic paranormal RH with nothing else really going on, then this might be for you.
This was giving homie hopper. Plain and simple. The plot was barely touched on and Emerson was hardly with her own daughter. Homegirl spent more time getting railed than actually being a mom.
If you just want a erotic paranormal RH with nothing else really going on, then this might be for you.
March 23, 2023
Another fabulous book from Jillian!
“The Monsters Den” is a delicious, low-angst RH romance. The FMC is a single mother to Ember, a half wolf shifter. Their dynamic is unique as Emerson, the mother, is a human woman and her daughter is a wolf shifter courtesy of the shifter father. For reasons unbeknownst to the reader, Emerson is no longer with the father and is indebted to his pack. In an effort to get more money and pay off her debt faster, Emerson takes a job working at a nightclub, which quickly progresses into her working at the brothel (for lack of a better word).
There, she meets Laithe, the ancient vampire, Dread, hellhound, Ryktus, gargoyle, and Arsyn, the incubus. Thes men are so different from one another but they made for such a fun harem! Laithe is your typical psychotic vampire who is business partners with Dread and Ryktus. Dread is a hellhound who is absolutely enamored with Ember, and naturally they both grow closer being that they’re dog shifters. Ryktus is the oh-so-serious one who is in absolute denial the entire book, but it makes the end joining all the more sweeter. He was committed to Emerson before they make it official, and it was lovely seeing his feeling go from a need to protect to a want to protect. Lastly, Arsyn is the sex demon from Hell. He was the surprise edition but adds such character to the group. I loved that he immediately announces that he doesn’t mind sharing, and he actively encourages everyone to be with each other. There is no MM relationship in this book, but he encouraged Emerson to take multiple partners at a time.
Emerson is strong and devoted to her daughter. I loved that she owned her sexuality and that being a mother wasn’t her entire identity. Ember is a huge part of the story but she wasn’t the story, if you know what I mean.
If you enjoyed A lady of rooksgrave manor then you’re going to love this book! I now need to find more human/monster rh to satisfy this new craving of mine.
“The Monsters Den” is a delicious, low-angst RH romance. The FMC is a single mother to Ember, a half wolf shifter. Their dynamic is unique as Emerson, the mother, is a human woman and her daughter is a wolf shifter courtesy of the shifter father. For reasons unbeknownst to the reader, Emerson is no longer with the father and is indebted to his pack. In an effort to get more money and pay off her debt faster, Emerson takes a job working at a nightclub, which quickly progresses into her working at the brothel (for lack of a better word).
There, she meets Laithe, the ancient vampire, Dread, hellhound, Ryktus, gargoyle, and Arsyn, the incubus. Thes men are so different from one another but they made for such a fun harem! Laithe is your typical psychotic vampire who is business partners with Dread and Ryktus. Dread is a hellhound who is absolutely enamored with Ember, and naturally they both grow closer being that they’re dog shifters. Ryktus is the oh-so-serious one who is in absolute denial the entire book, but it makes the end joining all the more sweeter. He was committed to Emerson before they make it official, and it was lovely seeing his feeling go from a need to protect to a want to protect. Lastly, Arsyn is the sex demon from Hell. He was the surprise edition but adds such character to the group. I loved that he immediately announces that he doesn’t mind sharing, and he actively encourages everyone to be with each other. There is no MM relationship in this book, but he encouraged Emerson to take multiple partners at a time.
Emerson is strong and devoted to her daughter. I loved that she owned her sexuality and that being a mother wasn’t her entire identity. Ember is a huge part of the story but she wasn’t the story, if you know what I mean.
If you enjoyed A lady of rooksgrave manor then you’re going to love this book! I now need to find more human/monster rh to satisfy this new craving of mine.
July 26, 2023
Ahhhh heck YES! This book has everything I want in a pnr romance book!!!
RH
Spice-TONS OF IT but damn if the story still sucked me in GOOD
Low angst but also enough to tug at ya.
Fleshed out mcs and fmc
Vampires wolves gargoyles demons
*le sigh*
Also fae and other types. Such a fun world!!
This story was a fun and hot read. For someone with anxiety it can be hard to enjoy some books. And I tend to speed read bc of that. 🤷🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
I enjoyed every word of this book! Also, the author wrote such an amazing content explanation before Chapter one. Didn’t give anything away that would affect the enjoyment. Just enough to settle anyone nerves.
And she also gave us
an amazing epilogue that gives us so many GIFTS into their future. I am a HO BAG for epilogues. I wanna see their futures. Why do authors not understand this? SHE DOES👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼this author GIVES IT TO US. ♥️♥️👏🏼👏🏼
She is just as amazing at ending her books as the twisted sisters (looking at you Death Club duet-that epilogue was the chef’s kiss)
I am also excited bc the author said more books will be coming in this world!!!
This is def an author I am going to go stalk. I enjoyed her last book I read. So figures I would like more from her.
Highly recommend this fun sexy romance!!
RH
Spice-TONS OF IT but damn if the story still sucked me in GOOD
Low angst but also enough to tug at ya.
Fleshed out mcs and fmc
Vampires wolves gargoyles demons
*le sigh*
Also fae and other types. Such a fun world!!
This story was a fun and hot read. For someone with anxiety it can be hard to enjoy some books. And I tend to speed read bc of that. 🤷🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
I enjoyed every word of this book! Also, the author wrote such an amazing content explanation before Chapter one. Didn’t give anything away that would affect the enjoyment. Just enough to settle anyone nerves.
And she also gave us
an amazing epilogue that gives us so many GIFTS into their future. I am a HO BAG for epilogues. I wanna see their futures. Why do authors not understand this? SHE DOES👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼this author GIVES IT TO US. ♥️♥️👏🏼👏🏼
She is just as amazing at ending her books as the twisted sisters (looking at you Death Club duet-that epilogue was the chef’s kiss)
I am also excited bc the author said more books will be coming in this world!!!
This is def an author I am going to go stalk. I enjoyed her last book I read. So figures I would like more from her.
Highly recommend this fun sexy romance!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2023
This reminded me of a pack for christmas by the same author. Some of the humor is cute some is cheesy. I did finish it and loved the final epilogue. Dread was my favorite much like Murphy from APFC.
If u want a palatte cleanser it's fine but don't expect deep reading.
If u want a palatte cleanser it's fine but don't expect deep reading.
March 28, 2023
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆, 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒎, 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝑪𝒔, 𝒎𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒊 𝑷𝑶𝑽, 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒌, 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔, 𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕, 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒊𝒆
This was a quick and steamy read. I think my favorite character was Dread - the hellhound who really claims Emerson first. He reminded me of Murphy from A Pack For Christmas. Big, growly and protective 😮💨 also let me mention HE IS A VIRGIN. I can’t even.
We have the vampire, Laithe, who adds some unhinged vibes to the group. But unhinged in the best way possible… he’s a delight.
Ryktus is the quiet, broody and emotionally distant gargoyle. I thought a gargoyle MMC was such a great and unexpected supernatural love interest!
Finally, we have Arsyn, the succubus demon, who adds some lightheartedness to the pack. He is fun and sweet but spicyyyy. There is no MM in this book.
Emerson is really down on her luck. She is raising a half wolf shifter on her own. The father left when he found out about the pregnancy. So Emerson is struggling with an alpha toddler, her ex’s pack harassing her, and she also loses her apartment. Her friend, a witch, gives her a place to stay and a job at a supernatural club. This is where she meets her guys. There is so much to love about this book - sweet moments, plenty of spice, humor, and some action too!
Overall, this was an excellent paranormal romance! I’m excited to read whatever Jillian West writes next!
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆, 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒎, 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝑪𝒔, 𝒎𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒊 𝑷𝑶𝑽, 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒌, 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔, 𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕, 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒊𝒆
This was a quick and steamy read. I think my favorite character was Dread - the hellhound who really claims Emerson first. He reminded me of Murphy from A Pack For Christmas. Big, growly and protective 😮💨 also let me mention HE IS A VIRGIN. I can’t even.
We have the vampire, Laithe, who adds some unhinged vibes to the group. But unhinged in the best way possible… he’s a delight.
Ryktus is the quiet, broody and emotionally distant gargoyle. I thought a gargoyle MMC was such a great and unexpected supernatural love interest!
Finally, we have Arsyn, the succubus demon, who adds some lightheartedness to the pack. He is fun and sweet but spicyyyy. There is no MM in this book.
Emerson is really down on her luck. She is raising a half wolf shifter on her own. The father left when he found out about the pregnancy. So Emerson is struggling with an alpha toddler, her ex’s pack harassing her, and she also loses her apartment. Her friend, a witch, gives her a place to stay and a job at a supernatural club. This is where she meets her guys. There is so much to love about this book - sweet moments, plenty of spice, humor, and some action too!
Overall, this was an excellent paranormal romance! I’m excited to read whatever Jillian West writes next!
March 27, 2023
This was the best PNR I have ever read
First of all Jillian mentions this being her first paranormal book and it blows my mind because baby, she indoctrinated us both into the world with this book! I have read well over 600 books in the last 18 months and I have to tell you this book is hands down one of the best and definitely is the best paranormal book I’ve ever read….like ever! There is so much to it, so many amazing twists and I just can’t say enough. Also, the best epilogues ever. The worst thing an author can do in my opinion is leave us hanging or give a half azzed epilogue. It’s disrespectful to the reader and to the story. So when I tell you this book comes with several epilogues….baaaaabbbbbyyyy it made my day! This book will definitely stick with me a long time. I am hoping our little witch friend gets her own book as there was some teasing going on about her situation throughout the book, but I’d also love to read about how all 5 kids turn out and how they are as adults. The only thing I didn’t get clarification on is are they all half vampire now because of their mother? I need to know. Please.
First of all Jillian mentions this being her first paranormal book and it blows my mind because baby, she indoctrinated us both into the world with this book! I have read well over 600 books in the last 18 months and I have to tell you this book is hands down one of the best and definitely is the best paranormal book I’ve ever read….like ever! There is so much to it, so many amazing twists and I just can’t say enough. Also, the best epilogues ever. The worst thing an author can do in my opinion is leave us hanging or give a half azzed epilogue. It’s disrespectful to the reader and to the story. So when I tell you this book comes with several epilogues….baaaaabbbbbyyyy it made my day! This book will definitely stick with me a long time. I am hoping our little witch friend gets her own book as there was some teasing going on about her situation throughout the book, but I’d also love to read about how all 5 kids turn out and how they are as adults. The only thing I didn’t get clarification on is are they all half vampire now because of their mother? I need to know. Please.
May 7, 2023
Cute and pretty past faced RH standalone. Wasn’t exactly what I was expecting with a sex club and a questionable job for the heroine. I was a sucker for the adorable cover and I wish we got more cute moments with her kid but she’s so young she doesn’t even really speak. Heroine Emerson is a single mom and she’s going through a rough time after being stranded by her baby daddy. She winds up in a town of supernaturals where slowly but surely she starts unknowingly collecting men and building herself a harem. Little less detailed sex would have been preferred given the length of the book and more time spent on relationship development between them all but overall cute and quick read.
March 28, 2023
This was another spectacular book from Jillian West. I am so in love with the world and characters that she has created. Whenever I read RH, there’s usually one of the men I don’t like as much - but I adored ALL of them.
This was a super steamy, fun read. This was the author’s first PNR book, and it’s right up there with one of my favourites. Jillian, you absolutely belong in this space and I can’t wait to see what else you come up with.
Thank you again for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a super steamy, fun read. This was the author’s first PNR book, and it’s right up there with one of my favourites. Jillian, you absolutely belong in this space and I can’t wait to see what else you come up with.
Thank you again for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2023
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
This had a good premise and I did enjoy it but I wish it was fleshed out a little more. The characters could have used more development in my opinion, especially Emerson. And the relationship with all of them could have been focused on for more than just sex scenes.
Overall, it was entertaining and I'd probably give this author another try in the future.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
This had a good premise and I did enjoy it but I wish it was fleshed out a little more. The characters could have used more development in my opinion, especially Emerson. And the relationship with all of them could have been focused on for more than just sex scenes.
Overall, it was entertaining and I'd probably give this author another try in the future.
May 13, 2023
The MC has only met this owner of the club she works for twice. She comes home after work and he is in her CHILDS room in his shifted form and she’s just okay with it???? Girl what. She’s so chill she goes to bed and when she wakes up he’s STILL there making breakfast with her kid. And she’s not weirded out?????? Girl what the hell.
August 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️½
"It's quite the deal, isn't it?" Arsyn muses. His hands fall to my hips, leading me to grind against him with the beat of the music. "Never-ending support and men dead set on giving you as many orgasms as your tender little human body can handle."
📚 Book Review 📚
I loved Jillian West’s first foray into the paranormal romance genre! The Monster’s Den is a light-hearted, high-heat monster lover’s dream with a mixed pack of obsessed and possessive males, and a kind-hearted, curvy, down-on-her-luck, human single mother. It is a low-angst read that is sure to bring a smile to your face, from the FMC, Emerson’s accidental bonding of her lust demon, to the pack’s HEA.
I really enjoyed the way Jillian wrote Emerson’s character. She is strong, doing anything and everything to raise her daughter in the absence of her father, but she is still emotionally vulnerable. Emerson worked through the insecurities many women face with their bodies, and the men in her life repeatedly told her how amazing and beautiful they thought she was. She was perfect for them; they were perfect for her.
The males in her pack were all wonderful characters. Each was obsessed with Emerson, fighting that initial pull to her until they gave in and acknowledged the bond. They claimed her and her half-shifter daughter, vowing to protect them from all harm, taking on the roles of father figures and protectors. And they brought love into their lives that the girls were severely lacking.
This is a high-steam, fast-burn story. Emerson is entering employment as a sex worker to support her daughter when she becomes intimate with the pack. There are multiple bonding scenes, some public claiming, bites with blood sharing, and knotting. Emerson’s lust demon is well-equipped to assist with enhancing pleasure. All scenes are MF or MF+, without sword crossing.
The Monster’s Den was a great stand-alone, and I look forward to future books in this universe following some side characters we met here. I hope Jillian continues exploring paranormal romance alongside her omegaverse stories.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Melissa Moran is a new-to-me narrator but has earned herself a spot in my favorites with her performance here. She played Emerson perfectly, exactly how my inner voice heard her while reading the ebook.
Michael Gallagher, once again, was impressive. He is already one of my top male narrators, able to infuse different voices and personalities in the characters he reads. I adore his possessive growls, and the way he says, “Good Girl,” makes my insides spark.
I loved the duet-style narration. A first for one of Jillian’s books. I hope she keeps this format in future audiobooks, as it enhances an already spectacular story.
Genre: Paranormal Monster Romance
Tropes/Features: Why Choose, Monster romance, Multiple-species pack: vampire, hell hound, gargoyle, lust demon, Curvy FMC, Single Mother, He Falls First, Obsessed/Possessive MMCs, Exhibition/Voyeurism, Mate Bonds/Bites, Knotting
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV
Narration Type: Duet-style
Narrator(s): Melissa Moran & Michael Gallagher
Relationship Type: Why Choose, Fast Burn
Book Type/Ending: Standalone with HEA
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️½
"It's quite the deal, isn't it?" Arsyn muses. His hands fall to my hips, leading me to grind against him with the beat of the music. "Never-ending support and men dead set on giving you as many orgasms as your tender little human body can handle."
📚 Book Review 📚
I loved Jillian West’s first foray into the paranormal romance genre! The Monster’s Den is a light-hearted, high-heat monster lover’s dream with a mixed pack of obsessed and possessive males, and a kind-hearted, curvy, down-on-her-luck, human single mother. It is a low-angst read that is sure to bring a smile to your face, from the FMC, Emerson’s accidental bonding of her lust demon, to the pack’s HEA.
I really enjoyed the way Jillian wrote Emerson’s character. She is strong, doing anything and everything to raise her daughter in the absence of her father, but she is still emotionally vulnerable. Emerson worked through the insecurities many women face with their bodies, and the men in her life repeatedly told her how amazing and beautiful they thought she was. She was perfect for them; they were perfect for her.
The males in her pack were all wonderful characters. Each was obsessed with Emerson, fighting that initial pull to her until they gave in and acknowledged the bond. They claimed her and her half-shifter daughter, vowing to protect them from all harm, taking on the roles of father figures and protectors. And they brought love into their lives that the girls were severely lacking.
This is a high-steam, fast-burn story. Emerson is entering employment as a sex worker to support her daughter when she becomes intimate with the pack. There are multiple bonding scenes, some public claiming, bites with blood sharing, and knotting. Emerson’s lust demon is well-equipped to assist with enhancing pleasure. All scenes are MF or MF+, without sword crossing.
The Monster’s Den was a great stand-alone, and I look forward to future books in this universe following some side characters we met here. I hope Jillian continues exploring paranormal romance alongside her omegaverse stories.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Melissa Moran is a new-to-me narrator but has earned herself a spot in my favorites with her performance here. She played Emerson perfectly, exactly how my inner voice heard her while reading the ebook.
Michael Gallagher, once again, was impressive. He is already one of my top male narrators, able to infuse different voices and personalities in the characters he reads. I adore his possessive growls, and the way he says, “Good Girl,” makes my insides spark.
I loved the duet-style narration. A first for one of Jillian’s books. I hope she keeps this format in future audiobooks, as it enhances an already spectacular story.
Genre: Paranormal Monster Romance
Tropes/Features: Why Choose, Monster romance, Multiple-species pack: vampire, hell hound, gargoyle, lust demon, Curvy FMC, Single Mother, He Falls First, Obsessed/Possessive MMCs, Exhibition/Voyeurism, Mate Bonds/Bites, Knotting
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV
Narration Type: Duet-style
Narrator(s): Melissa Moran & Michael Gallagher
Relationship Type: Why Choose, Fast Burn
Book Type/Ending: Standalone with HEA
April 23, 2023
I am *so* shocked this book has such a high rating. Honestly I’d give it 2 stars, but I threw one more in there for entertainment value. The entertainment value coming in from how ridiculous parts of this book were. Like literally I kept reading thinking, what is the next really bizarre thing that’s going to be thrown into this book. It wasn’t even a love story. The MFC kept repeating how she liked these guys for their ability to protect her and her child. That’s it.
October 9, 2023
Monster’s Den by Jillian West
Yup, here I am back again with another read from the amazing Jillian West. Now, this one it a bit different from her other books but, still another great read with sweet MMC and HEA. This is Jillian’s first take with Paranormal rather than Omegaverse and she did amazing from the storyline to the characters.
This book follows Emerson parker who is a single mom just trying to do what's best for her daughter when things seem to be crashing down she gets an offer to stay at a sanctuary for both monsters and humans alike. With a friend nearby and some mysterious men she finds around her can she handle the twists and turns, that not only did she not expect (but I didn’t either)?
I really loved the dynamic between the love interests in this book and I truly am a sucker for a single-mom romance! We have gargoyles, vampires, hellhounds, incubus, and a very adorable shifter involved. In this book you will find; intrigue, spice, twists/turns, why-choose (FMC does not have to choose), and an overall sweet romance read all wrapped into one book. Definitely recommend you give it a try if any of the above sounds good and you want to dip your toes in some monster/paranormal romance with a why choose twist!
Yup, here I am back again with another read from the amazing Jillian West. Now, this one it a bit different from her other books but, still another great read with sweet MMC and HEA. This is Jillian’s first take with Paranormal rather than Omegaverse and she did amazing from the storyline to the characters.
This book follows Emerson parker who is a single mom just trying to do what's best for her daughter when things seem to be crashing down she gets an offer to stay at a sanctuary for both monsters and humans alike. With a friend nearby and some mysterious men she finds around her can she handle the twists and turns, that not only did she not expect (but I didn’t either)?
I really loved the dynamic between the love interests in this book and I truly am a sucker for a single-mom romance! We have gargoyles, vampires, hellhounds, incubus, and a very adorable shifter involved. In this book you will find; intrigue, spice, twists/turns, why-choose (FMC does not have to choose), and an overall sweet romance read all wrapped into one book. Definitely recommend you give it a try if any of the above sounds good and you want to dip your toes in some monster/paranormal romance with a why choose twist!
September 4, 2023
Nothing but smut. I enjoyed the beginning and had hopes there’d be more plot development, but once she met the guys, it was almost entirely sex for the rest of the book. And the FMC is nothing but a cum hole with no personality or backbone. She has zero opinions of her own and just rolls with everything she’s told to do. “Oh, I’m your mate? Okay. I don’t know what that means, but whatever. His dick is nice.” That sentiment repeated over and over. 🙄
I won’t be continuing the series.
I won’t be continuing the series.
March 23, 2023
This was absolutely good!! Loved the fact that there is no bullying, they are so good to her through the whole story. Love everyone of the guys and their personalities! The spice was so good and every one of Emerson’s monsters bring something different to the story! If you like monster smut and a wonderful story then give this one a try!
November 1, 2023
Romance:
May 24, 2023
I need BLEACH, BLEACH.
One of the worst book I've read this year, NEXT !
One of the worst book I've read this year, NEXT !
April 26, 2023
I found this book to be a fun read but also utterly confusing. It had a lot of promise but left a lot of threads hanging or too easily clipped rather than seeing them to the end (extending the metaphor).
This review is full of spoilers so reader beware.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
The heroine is a single mom having a hard time. A shifter got her pregnant and left her alone to be menaced by his pack alpha. She moves to a safe town for paranormals. And somehow the pack alpha finds her and continues to menace her.
Now, here is where the story gets weird. She learns there’s a job that pays more where she can be a sex worker for monsters. But she has to have a free “trial”to see if her sex skills are enough. That’s GROSS to have a trial and not pay her. These are supposed to be good employers.
Behind the scenes, one of the owners is crushing on her but decides not to chase her but wants to make sure she only has sex with his pack mates, who are the other owners.
And then, her “trial” partner FAILS HER. (Apparently he wants a second night for free). GROSS!!! So manipulative. This is a working single mom.
And there’s no discussion EVER in this book that this is not about her being a sex worker. Even to the point where ALL of the owners are having sex with her. It just somehow seamlessly moves to her mating with them.
Second “trial” for her includes a semi accidental mating. GROSS! What the actual f!? It’s not consent for her to accidentally get mated because she’s on a free trial and doesn’t know what things mean. That’s a workers comp claim there.
She wasn’t hugely happy with deciding to be a sex worker so it’s weird that she never checks in on her job for the rest of the book. She just keeps having sex and mate bonding with these dudes and never brings up her job again.
A friend of hers gives her a contraceptive spell and tells her a way around it.
And the heroine just lets one of her mates pressure her into the work around. AND THEN IS SURPRISED WHEN SHE ENDS UP PREGNANT!!!
Some of the “too neat” choices by the author include her magically being an omega, getting pregnant with four babies (one from each partner), and magically becoming a vampire but still being able to have children.
I wouldn’t recommend this book. It’s a bit sloppy and not thought out. But it had so much promise.
This review is full of spoilers so reader beware.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
The heroine is a single mom having a hard time. A shifter got her pregnant and left her alone to be menaced by his pack alpha. She moves to a safe town for paranormals. And somehow the pack alpha finds her and continues to menace her.
Now, here is where the story gets weird. She learns there’s a job that pays more where she can be a sex worker for monsters. But she has to have a free “trial”to see if her sex skills are enough. That’s GROSS to have a trial and not pay her. These are supposed to be good employers.
Behind the scenes, one of the owners is crushing on her but decides not to chase her but wants to make sure she only has sex with his pack mates, who are the other owners.
And then, her “trial” partner FAILS HER. (Apparently he wants a second night for free). GROSS!!! So manipulative. This is a working single mom.
And there’s no discussion EVER in this book that this is not about her being a sex worker. Even to the point where ALL of the owners are having sex with her. It just somehow seamlessly moves to her mating with them.
Second “trial” for her includes a semi accidental mating. GROSS! What the actual f!? It’s not consent for her to accidentally get mated because she’s on a free trial and doesn’t know what things mean. That’s a workers comp claim there.
She wasn’t hugely happy with deciding to be a sex worker so it’s weird that she never checks in on her job for the rest of the book. She just keeps having sex and mate bonding with these dudes and never brings up her job again.
A friend of hers gives her a contraceptive spell and tells her a way around it.
And the heroine just lets one of her mates pressure her into the work around. AND THEN IS SURPRISED WHEN SHE ENDS UP PREGNANT!!!
Some of the “too neat” choices by the author include her magically being an omega, getting pregnant with four babies (one from each partner), and magically becoming a vampire but still being able to have children.
I wouldn’t recommend this book. It’s a bit sloppy and not thought out. But it had so much promise.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2023
Jillian West decides to add PNR to her repertoire and it’s a hit. I adore her combination of monsters, fated mates, humor, suspense and a little mystery. This book really has it all.
Single mom and human, Emerson, never thought she'd find herself escaping to a monster-run area for sanctuary. However her ex has left a debt she can't possibly pay and the constant threat to her and her daughter is too much. One of my favorite parts of West's writing is how distinct she is with the crafting of her male main characters. Dread, Laithe, Ryktus, and Arsyn's perspectives are unmistakable and even if she didn't state whose chapter it was, I would almost immediately know. I also liked that while Emerson is in an untenable position with her ex's pack - she is not a doormat or completely helpless. The guys do, in some ways, come to her rescue - but her strength and perseverance shine through. There's also Emerson's adorable half-shifter toddler, Ember. Watching the guys switch between fierce warriors and gentle protectors is such fun.
While there's a fabulous HEA for this why-choose group, West has definitely left room to expand the world and share more characters' stories. I also love epilogues - and there's several here spanning a few weeks, months, and even 14 years into the future.
CW:
West has a comprehensive list at the beginning of the book.
Single mom and human, Emerson, never thought she'd find herself escaping to a monster-run area for sanctuary. However her ex has left a debt she can't possibly pay and the constant threat to her and her daughter is too much. One of my favorite parts of West's writing is how distinct she is with the crafting of her male main characters. Dread, Laithe, Ryktus, and Arsyn's perspectives are unmistakable and even if she didn't state whose chapter it was, I would almost immediately know. I also liked that while Emerson is in an untenable position with her ex's pack - she is not a doormat or completely helpless. The guys do, in some ways, come to her rescue - but her strength and perseverance shine through. There's also Emerson's adorable half-shifter toddler, Ember. Watching the guys switch between fierce warriors and gentle protectors is such fun.
While there's a fabulous HEA for this why-choose group, West has definitely left room to expand the world and share more characters' stories. I also love epilogues - and there's several here spanning a few weeks, months, and even 14 years into the future.
CW:
West has a comprehensive list at the beginning of the book.
June 11, 2023
DNF 30%
This book was just... Not very good.
The characters are not super likeable. The 'bad guys' are really cheesy.
The first sex scene in what I assume will turn into an RH is actually her 'interview' in sex work, which I found kind of icky.
The interactions with the toddler were weird. Sometimes her speech is totally normal, sometimes it's super babyish. It almost seemed like the author would remember small kids don't talk perfectly and throw in some baby talk randomly.
I didn't really like Laith at all, though I found myself enjoying Dreads few chapters. Right up until he set her up with another"interview' with someone else.
There's quite a bit of weirdness in the writing that I didn't care for. Telling instead of writing it all out, weird descriptions and dialogues.
I just didn't care for this book on the whole.
This book was just... Not very good.
The characters are not super likeable. The 'bad guys' are really cheesy.
The first sex scene in what I assume will turn into an RH is actually her 'interview' in sex work, which I found kind of icky.
The interactions with the toddler were weird. Sometimes her speech is totally normal, sometimes it's super babyish. It almost seemed like the author would remember small kids don't talk perfectly and throw in some baby talk randomly.
I didn't really like Laith at all, though I found myself enjoying Dreads few chapters. Right up until he set her up with another"interview' with someone else.
There's quite a bit of weirdness in the writing that I didn't care for. Telling instead of writing it all out, weird descriptions and dialogues.
I just didn't care for this book on the whole.
April 15, 2023
I really don't get why this book is so highly rated. Basically it is mostly smut. The basis for the story is actually sad where the mfc is forced by bullying to earn money as a sex worker. Furthermore, she has no backbone or outspoken personality. This was not for me unfortunately.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 813 reviews