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Creatures & Coding #3
Zero Fox Given
Finding out that your childhood sweetheart is alive after thinking he was dead for most of your life is a rollercoaster of emotions for savvy marketing expert
Maddie. And Schrödinger's fox? He is still the most dashing guy she has ever seen.
Maddie and her dad left her childhood Scottish town fifteen years ago. She's back to rescue another business in trouble. It's personal this time. Lone Fox Distillery is owned by Fitz, her first love. She left, leaving their unfinished story behind. Maddie is about to turn the page once more.
Inheriting the family distillery and restoring its past glory was Fitz's one goal in life. But after spending a lot of money on the business, it's still not making enough cash and he's in a really tough spot.
Luckily, Betaworth CEO Dex Murphy has the perfect woman for the job. The moment Fitzgerald lays eyes on her, he knows it's her. His childhood bestie who moved away and never replied to his letters.
But help comes too late. Fitz has to borrow more money from his grandfather, but there's a catch. If his wedding is the first one at the Distillery in thirty years, he gets the loan.
He reluctantly agrees when Maddie offers to play his wife for a year. Marrying his friend and marketing manager is a bad idea, but what else can he do?
They embark on a journey that will push their hearts to the limit. Can Maddie and Fitz leave their past behind and create a fresh start for the distillery and themselves?
ZERO FOX GIVEN is a cosy monster romance novel with sugar & spice, and a guaranteed HEA. It's the third novel in the CREATURES & CODING series, and can be read as a standalone.
✨✨✨
Welcome to Betaworth IT, your trusted partner for nerdy women, beefy men and immaculate software solutions ✨We’re an interspecies agency devoted to creating the best apps possible for our amazing customers.
What you get? Plenty of spice and everything nice, a cosy office space, great code and even greater coffee!
Let’s create beta solutions for your business. You’ll get your money’s worth, we promise!
Zero Fox Given is the third instalment in Creatures & Coding!
Content (internal and external)
Alcohol consumption (possibly unhealthy, used to calm nerves)
Glorification of meds
Trauma (both for patient and carer (mother))
Hospitalisation and rehab
Childhood sickness (infection, including artificial coma, hallucinations, physical and mental long term effects, needing intensive care)
Authoritarian person
Classism
Ageism
This book contains explicit content between consenting adults and is only for readers 18+ years.
Maddie. And Schrödinger's fox? He is still the most dashing guy she has ever seen.
Maddie and her dad left her childhood Scottish town fifteen years ago. She's back to rescue another business in trouble. It's personal this time. Lone Fox Distillery is owned by Fitz, her first love. She left, leaving their unfinished story behind. Maddie is about to turn the page once more.
Inheriting the family distillery and restoring its past glory was Fitz's one goal in life. But after spending a lot of money on the business, it's still not making enough cash and he's in a really tough spot.
Luckily, Betaworth CEO Dex Murphy has the perfect woman for the job. The moment Fitzgerald lays eyes on her, he knows it's her. His childhood bestie who moved away and never replied to his letters.
But help comes too late. Fitz has to borrow more money from his grandfather, but there's a catch. If his wedding is the first one at the Distillery in thirty years, he gets the loan.
He reluctantly agrees when Maddie offers to play his wife for a year. Marrying his friend and marketing manager is a bad idea, but what else can he do?
They embark on a journey that will push their hearts to the limit. Can Maddie and Fitz leave their past behind and create a fresh start for the distillery and themselves?
ZERO FOX GIVEN is a cosy monster romance novel with sugar & spice, and a guaranteed HEA. It's the third novel in the CREATURES & CODING series, and can be read as a standalone.
✨✨✨
Welcome to Betaworth IT, your trusted partner for nerdy women, beefy men and immaculate software solutions ✨We’re an interspecies agency devoted to creating the best apps possible for our amazing customers.
What you get? Plenty of spice and everything nice, a cosy office space, great code and even greater coffee!
Let’s create beta solutions for your business. You’ll get your money’s worth, we promise!
Zero Fox Given is the third instalment in Creatures & Coding!
Content (internal and external)
Alcohol consumption (possibly unhealthy, used to calm nerves)
Glorification of meds
Trauma (both for patient and carer (mother))
Hospitalisation and rehab
Childhood sickness (infection, including artificial coma, hallucinations, physical and mental long term effects, needing intensive care)
Authoritarian person
Classism
Ageism
This book contains explicit content between consenting adults and is only for readers 18+ years.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2024
190 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 31, 2025
Kilts and Kisses
KU Read
Almost 400 Pages
Workplace Romance (Employee & Client)
Childhood friends
Second Chance
Human X Vulpus
Disability and Autism Rep
Maddie and Fitz were childhood friends/sweethearts, but we're separated when Fitz took ill and Maddie moved away with her Dad. 15 years later, they are thrown together again when Fitz hires Maddie's firm to help him update his businesses online structure and Maddie is assigned as his account manager.
The pair clearly still have feelings for each other, but there are complications such as work and family hurts from the past. But Maddie's is determined to help Fitz and his business even going so far as to agree to Marry him in order to boost the company and secure funds to help them along... But soon both realise they don't want a marriage with an end date or just for business, they are in love and want it for real... If only they had the guts to tell each other this...?
The story was handled with care around their respective disabilities and didn't let these facts fall by the wayside and instead complimented both characters well in their love story. They were both compassionate with each other and made each other feel both seen and respected, strengthening their bond.
KU Read
Almost 400 Pages
Workplace Romance (Employee & Client)
Childhood friends
Second Chance
Human X Vulpus
Disability and Autism Rep
Maddie and Fitz were childhood friends/sweethearts, but we're separated when Fitz took ill and Maddie moved away with her Dad. 15 years later, they are thrown together again when Fitz hires Maddie's firm to help him update his businesses online structure and Maddie is assigned as his account manager.
The pair clearly still have feelings for each other, but there are complications such as work and family hurts from the past. But Maddie's is determined to help Fitz and his business even going so far as to agree to Marry him in order to boost the company and secure funds to help them along... But soon both realise they don't want a marriage with an end date or just for business, they are in love and want it for real... If only they had the guts to tell each other this...?
The story was handled with care around their respective disabilities and didn't let these facts fall by the wayside and instead complimented both characters well in their love story. They were both compassionate with each other and made each other feel both seen and respected, strengthening their bond.
January 15, 2024
Maddie and Fitz are seriously the cutest! I really enjoyed reading about their love story. Them getting a second chance after reuniting as adults since they were kids is so 🥺 The author did such an amazing job at the rekindled romance between the two of the MCs. The combination of heartache and sweetness was absolutely perfect!
I'm quite excited to see what the author has planned for the next book 👀 following a couple with a certain hate to love dynamic! 🤭
I'm quite excited to see what the author has planned for the next book 👀 following a couple with a certain hate to love dynamic! 🤭
January 21, 2024
"I might not have known why, but it's always been you. When you came back into my life in spring, it felt like the end of a winter I thought eternal. The bitter cold melted away and flowers grew in the barren lands of my soul. And I know when autumn comes, I'll love it even more, because way more than the season itself, it's you who teaches me how beautiful change can be."
I've wanted to read this book ever since I saw the cover reveal and my past Robin Hood obsession flared back to life. I loved the romance, the spice, and all the amazing rep in this book. It was a cute slice of life romance - a bit longer than I prefer for that type of book but I didn't mind taking it slow and just enjoying the romance.
Fitz was super adorable and every time I thought I couldn't fall in love with him any more....he said something completely swoon worthy and more of my heart went to him. And that filthy mouth?? Oh boy he is a smooth talkin fox.
I've wanted to read this book ever since I saw the cover reveal and my past Robin Hood obsession flared back to life. I loved the romance, the spice, and all the amazing rep in this book. It was a cute slice of life romance - a bit longer than I prefer for that type of book but I didn't mind taking it slow and just enjoying the romance.
Fitz was super adorable and every time I thought I couldn't fall in love with him any more....he said something completely swoon worthy and more of my heart went to him. And that filthy mouth?? Oh boy he is a smooth talkin fox.
June 26, 2024
I have very mixed feelings about this story honestly. I liked the idea behind it, and there were definitely many aspects about it that I did like... but overall, it just didn't wow me.
I well and truly thought is was absolutely annoying how nearly every character was basically interested in each other. Oh there's two barely mentioned coworkers that have brief tumultuous interaction? Well obviously it's heavily implied they are f*cking. There's a random dress salesman and a tartan maker who literally have never met before and are literally irrelevant characters to the story? Well of course one of them eyef*cks the other. A neutrally mentioned employee invites a person having a meeting into the building? Well clearly he's absolutely stupefied by her. The wedding planner meets the best man for the first time? Well it's no shock that she is immediately smitten. You can kinda catch my drift here in that it got old really quickly, especially when majority of the characters are hardly mentioned. Literally outside of Fitz and Maddie, basically all other characters are mentioned in passing, by name only (not actually having an interaction), or only a handful of times.... so nothing significant enough to really care or bother with. Not every person that meets each other or have some sort of connection to each other needs to be interested in each other. It just became aggravating because it was so irrelevant when it came to tertiary characters. Even more so is that literally nothing came from any of it within the book nor implied to be brought up or developed on in another book. It was just weird, annoying, and frivolous.
Additionally, I found that the story was fairly dry for as long as it was. Not much actually happened throughout the story, and quite honestly, it was so low drama that it just left you sitting there saying "Okay?? And then what??" Just waiting for something of substance to actually happen. I feel that majority of the story could have been condensed to 150-200 pages since nothing really happened, it was mostly just filler.
I like Fitz and Maddie, they had a cute dynamic and the idea of everything was cute... but I just can't justify that as being the sole purpose of liking a book when the actual story itself sat on a mid line.
I well and truly thought is was absolutely annoying how nearly every character was basically interested in each other. Oh there's two barely mentioned coworkers that have brief tumultuous interaction? Well obviously it's heavily implied they are f*cking. There's a random dress salesman and a tartan maker who literally have never met before and are literally irrelevant characters to the story? Well of course one of them eyef*cks the other. A neutrally mentioned employee invites a person having a meeting into the building? Well clearly he's absolutely stupefied by her. The wedding planner meets the best man for the first time? Well it's no shock that she is immediately smitten. You can kinda catch my drift here in that it got old really quickly, especially when majority of the characters are hardly mentioned. Literally outside of Fitz and Maddie, basically all other characters are mentioned in passing, by name only (not actually having an interaction), or only a handful of times.... so nothing significant enough to really care or bother with. Not every person that meets each other or have some sort of connection to each other needs to be interested in each other. It just became aggravating because it was so irrelevant when it came to tertiary characters. Even more so is that literally nothing came from any of it within the book nor implied to be brought up or developed on in another book. It was just weird, annoying, and frivolous.
Additionally, I found that the story was fairly dry for as long as it was. Not much actually happened throughout the story, and quite honestly, it was so low drama that it just left you sitting there saying "Okay?? And then what??" Just waiting for something of substance to actually happen. I feel that majority of the story could have been condensed to 150-200 pages since nothing really happened, it was mostly just filler.
I like Fitz and Maddie, they had a cute dynamic and the idea of everything was cute... but I just can't justify that as being the sole purpose of liking a book when the actual story itself sat on a mid line.
January 24, 2024
Cozy
I was so excited for this book because disability representation is everything. Fitz was such a sweetheart and he and Maddie together were just perfect. I also appreciated that Maddie wasn’t just coded as autistic, but clearly stated to be so.
The history between them was so hard, but made a lot of sense.
Fake dating isn’t my fave trope, but this was done well.
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: memory loss, severe illness (off page), ableism
I was so excited for this book because disability representation is everything. Fitz was such a sweetheart and he and Maddie together were just perfect. I also appreciated that Maddie wasn’t just coded as autistic, but clearly stated to be so.
The history between them was so hard, but made a lot of sense.
Fake dating isn’t my fave trope, but this was done well.
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: memory loss, severe illness (off page), ableism
June 14, 2024
This was one of the sweetest childhood sweethearts' second chance romances I've read in a while. It's hard to put into words, but my heart just feels happy after reading this. Fitz and Maddie were perfection, both individually and as a couple. I loved the disability representation and autism and adhd representation. I giggled and kicked my feet. It's a really fun feel-good read!
January 16, 2024
I love this series
I love this series I definitely relate to the characters being neurodivergent it’s always great when someone writes them very well. I love how exclusive the stories are and I am hoping that one of the books will be a WLW story.
I love this series I definitely relate to the characters being neurodivergent it’s always great when someone writes them very well. I love how exclusive the stories are and I am hoping that one of the books will be a WLW story.
July 12, 2025
Themes:
Fluid kink
Knotting
Childhood sweethearts
Second chance
Fake engagement
He loves to eat ;)
Thoughts:
Sometimes, the best way to prove to your shitty grandfather that you know how to run your business is to impulsively agree to a fake marriage with someone you haven’t seen for fifteen years. I mean, we’ve all been there.
This was the cutest story of childhood sweethearts getting a second chance at happiness through the magic of the fake engagement. Of course, they have to practise being in a relationship to make sure it looks believable, obviously. There is a LOT of “practice”. Sexy, sexy practice. Through the whole thing, they’re both secretly head over heels for each other and adorable about it too. Watching them do cute couple things together and just reconnect was so sweet and really warmed my heart. The whole book has such a cosy, warm vibe to it!
Fitz is a fox who cares passionately about three things: his business, the people he cares about, and proving that he isn’t useless or worthless like his grandfather thinks just because Fitz is in a wheelchair or refuses toe the line when it comes to running the family business. Years of criticism have made him sometimes unsure of himself but he is really sweet and it’s lovely to see how kind he is and how he flourishes in his relationship.
Maddie is confident in her lane, she comes across as comfortable within herself (despite a few hangups) and knowing her own mind and that makes her a really great character to read. I loved spending time in her chapters and found her really fun and likeable. She and Fitz have great chemistry and their romance works so well because they’re very much on the same wavelength with little drama between them.
I also want to mention the representation in this book and how important it is to me. For those who don’t know, I’m a wheelchair user because, like Fitz, I have neurological issues with my legs (mine comes from spinal problems). I’m also autistic and ADHD like Maddie. To see myself - my good days and my bad - reflected in these characters is so huge. I feel seen, I feel like someone else gets it, and I feel like other readers will understand my reality a little bit more. Fitz has more ability to walk than I do, but his experiences are similar. Maddie’s brain is SO like mine, I highlighted so much of her internal monologue and descriptions of her thought processes! Everything was really well written and I love to see these kinds of characters out there for people to identify with and love. We are wonderful and worthy and deserve to be seen!
Overall, this is a really sweet, low stakes, medium heat read with the more adorable romance. Perfect to curl up with!
Fluid kink
Knotting
Childhood sweethearts
Second chance
Fake engagement
He loves to eat ;)
Thoughts:
Sometimes, the best way to prove to your shitty grandfather that you know how to run your business is to impulsively agree to a fake marriage with someone you haven’t seen for fifteen years. I mean, we’ve all been there.
This was the cutest story of childhood sweethearts getting a second chance at happiness through the magic of the fake engagement. Of course, they have to practise being in a relationship to make sure it looks believable, obviously. There is a LOT of “practice”. Sexy, sexy practice. Through the whole thing, they’re both secretly head over heels for each other and adorable about it too. Watching them do cute couple things together and just reconnect was so sweet and really warmed my heart. The whole book has such a cosy, warm vibe to it!
Fitz is a fox who cares passionately about three things: his business, the people he cares about, and proving that he isn’t useless or worthless like his grandfather thinks just because Fitz is in a wheelchair or refuses toe the line when it comes to running the family business. Years of criticism have made him sometimes unsure of himself but he is really sweet and it’s lovely to see how kind he is and how he flourishes in his relationship.
Maddie is confident in her lane, she comes across as comfortable within herself (despite a few hangups) and knowing her own mind and that makes her a really great character to read. I loved spending time in her chapters and found her really fun and likeable. She and Fitz have great chemistry and their romance works so well because they’re very much on the same wavelength with little drama between them.
I also want to mention the representation in this book and how important it is to me. For those who don’t know, I’m a wheelchair user because, like Fitz, I have neurological issues with my legs (mine comes from spinal problems). I’m also autistic and ADHD like Maddie. To see myself - my good days and my bad - reflected in these characters is so huge. I feel seen, I feel like someone else gets it, and I feel like other readers will understand my reality a little bit more. Fitz has more ability to walk than I do, but his experiences are similar. Maddie’s brain is SO like mine, I highlighted so much of her internal monologue and descriptions of her thought processes! Everything was really well written and I love to see these kinds of characters out there for people to identify with and love. We are wonderful and worthy and deserve to be seen!
Overall, this is a really sweet, low stakes, medium heat read with the more adorable romance. Perfect to curl up with!
April 12, 2024
I disliked this book so much that I DNF’d it. I made it to 63% and couldn’t stomach any more of it. Usually if I’ve made it that far through, I’ll power through it. I just honestly couldn’t take it any more.
I am all about spreading positivity and light onto neurodivergent individuals and what they deal with. I am a neurodivergent and have my own set of things I deal with. However, it seems to be the only thing that is talked about over and over again with our FMC. The author almost goes out of her way to talk about the fact that she’s neurodivergent or has ADHD.
And it was some of the most polite sex I’ve ever read. They checked in with each other so often that I didn’t like reading their spicy scenes.
Wouldn’t recommend, I’m irritated that I read as much of it as I did.
I am all about spreading positivity and light onto neurodivergent individuals and what they deal with. I am a neurodivergent and have my own set of things I deal with. However, it seems to be the only thing that is talked about over and over again with our FMC. The author almost goes out of her way to talk about the fact that she’s neurodivergent or has ADHD.
And it was some of the most polite sex I’ve ever read. They checked in with each other so often that I didn’t like reading their spicy scenes.
Wouldn’t recommend, I’m irritated that I read as much of it as I did.
April 3, 2025
Almost a DNF
I loved so many aspects of this book and there was so much potential but around halfway it turned into a slog that never seemed to get better.
I loved so many aspects of this book and there was so much potential but around halfway it turned into a slog that never seemed to get better.
April 1, 2024
MF, Monster, Contemporary, 1st Dual POV
Status: KU, Series of Interconnected Standalones, Third Act Conflict - , Breakup , Reproduction -
Maddie: AuDHD, Of Irish Descent, Grew up in Scottland, Works in Marketing, 28 Yrs Old, Teal Hair, Septum Peircing, Wears Glasses, Painted Nails, Mid Sized, Bi, Touch Starved
Fitz: Vulpis (Fox Hybrid), Scottish, Owns a Distillery, Bi, 29 Yrs Old, Disabled (Neurological Disorder, Contracted Rabies as a Teen), Cain/Wheelchair User, Chronic Pain, Goes to Physical Therapy, Praise Kink, Touch Starved, Birth Control Implant, Preppy Dresser
Rep: Disability (Cane/Wheelchair User) (MMC), AuDHD FMC (Own Voices), Birth Control Implant (MMC), Neurodivergent Side Characters, Queer-Normative, FMC Has a Period
Notes: Set in Scotland, Re-encounter, Childhood Friends to Lovers, FMC is Working to Save MMC's Business, Female Friendship, Fitz Does PT "On Screen", Fake Engagement, Marriage of Convenience, Date to a Fair, Wedding Planning and Preparations
Sex Notes:
CWs:
Status: KU, Series of Interconnected Standalones, Third Act Conflict - , Breakup , Reproduction -
Maddie: AuDHD, Of Irish Descent, Grew up in Scottland, Works in Marketing, 28 Yrs Old, Teal Hair, Septum Peircing, Wears Glasses, Painted Nails, Mid Sized, Bi, Touch Starved
Fitz: Vulpis (Fox Hybrid), Scottish, Owns a Distillery, Bi, 29 Yrs Old, Disabled (Neurological Disorder, Contracted Rabies as a Teen), Cain/Wheelchair User, Chronic Pain, Goes to Physical Therapy, Praise Kink, Touch Starved, Birth Control Implant, Preppy Dresser
Rep: Disability (Cane/Wheelchair User) (MMC), AuDHD FMC (Own Voices), Birth Control Implant (MMC), Neurodivergent Side Characters, Queer-Normative, FMC Has a Period
Notes: Set in Scotland, Re-encounter, Childhood Friends to Lovers, FMC is Working to Save MMC's Business, Female Friendship, Fitz Does PT "On Screen", Fake Engagement, Marriage of Convenience, Date to a Fair, Wedding Planning and Preparations
Sex Notes:
CWs:
May 22, 2024
Maddie and Fitz were once childhood sweethearts but they were separated once Fitz landed in a hospital and Maddie moved away from their hometown. For fifteen years, both of them thought of the other but neither reached out. So when a chance encounter brings them together, old emotions flare up again and with Fitz needing help to save his legacy, Maddie steps in and agrees to become his fake fiancee. But is it fake?
I loved this fake marriage/childhood friends-to-lovers story. I adored Maddie from the get-go and I want her teal hair lol. But honestly, the representation with ADHD is perfect in this one and I found myself loving how normalized it was in the book. Yes, there are some struggles as in real life, and I think Rhea Fox did a fantastic job with it. Fitz uses a cane and a wheelchair on occasion because of his leg but it doesn't hinder him one bit and I loved seeing it. Again, the way that there are moments where this is addressed and talked about, but it's not his entire personality is so well done.
The plot is paced well and the pining especially was a favorite of mine. Yes, they got together quite early in the book but the emotional side took some time and I loved seeing them both kind of struggle with the fact that their relationship had an expiration date even though neither of them wanted it. Love when that happens and the big reveal was so much fun to see.
There is a good amount of spice in this one and the spice is spicing in a good way. I felt it worked well with the plot and I found myself being captivated by them. So good!
I loved this fake marriage/childhood friends-to-lovers story. I adored Maddie from the get-go and I want her teal hair lol. But honestly, the representation with ADHD is perfect in this one and I found myself loving how normalized it was in the book. Yes, there are some struggles as in real life, and I think Rhea Fox did a fantastic job with it. Fitz uses a cane and a wheelchair on occasion because of his leg but it doesn't hinder him one bit and I loved seeing it. Again, the way that there are moments where this is addressed and talked about, but it's not his entire personality is so well done.
The plot is paced well and the pining especially was a favorite of mine. Yes, they got together quite early in the book but the emotional side took some time and I loved seeing them both kind of struggle with the fact that their relationship had an expiration date even though neither of them wanted it. Love when that happens and the big reveal was so much fun to see.
There is a good amount of spice in this one and the spice is spicing in a good way. I felt it worked well with the plot and I found myself being captivated by them. So good!
July 16, 2024
I was surprised at my own rating, since I’m usually a sucker for this type of book but I had one main complaint that just kept bashing me over the head the whole time. There was a lot of dialogue/texting that would suddenly throw me out of the cadence of the writing, which was already a bit slow. I liked the writing itself, but then suddenly I would cringe at something that was either old-fashioned enough to be jarringly out of place in a 2030’s setting (even taking into account the characters acting JUST like they might as teens, which is a leap), behaviors out of character or being handed every single explanation. Good examples of this are texting in the style of *wrings hands nervously*/*glances at clock* (maybe I’m just too young of a reader to not find this awful, since I grew up with this exact style and hated it) and having every instance of a neurodivergent behavior be explained (even if it isn’t a common knowledge behavior, there’s lot of ways to write to tell readers this without saying it flat-out).
Also note that this style of review that’s got all these parentheses is also how both main characters believe professional emails with an unknown client would be written, so that’s it’s own oddly jarring dialogue.
I loved the representation of neurodivergence, totally normalized LGBTQ+, the fact that the miscommunication trope isn’t the entire plot and the actual premise of the story. Altogether, a 3 because despite loving what a book is made up of, if it hurts to read it every few pages then it wasn’t enjoyable enough to rate it higher.
Also note that this style of review that’s got all these parentheses is also how both main characters believe professional emails with an unknown client would be written, so that’s it’s own oddly jarring dialogue.
I loved the representation of neurodivergence, totally normalized LGBTQ+, the fact that the miscommunication trope isn’t the entire plot and the actual premise of the story. Altogether, a 3 because despite loving what a book is made up of, if it hurts to read it every few pages then it wasn’t enjoyable enough to rate it higher.
March 17, 2024
What a smooth talking fox 🧡🦊🧡
In this charming tale, childhood sweethearts rediscover love through a fake engagement that leads to plenty of 'practice' – sizzling and sweet in equal measure. Fitz, a fox with a heart of gold, battles his insecurities while proving his worth beyond societal judgments. His growth and kindness shine through in his relationship with Maddie.
Maddie, confident and self-assured despite her own struggles, shines brightly as a relatable and likeable character. The chemistry between her and Fitz is palpable, their connection free of unnecessary drama, making their romance a joy to witness.
Representation plays a vital role in this story, particularly in Maddie's character who has ADHD.. Seeing authentic portrayals of individuals with ADHD, showcasing both strengths and vulnerabilities, resonates deeply with this reader who shares similar experiences. The inclusivity and relatability in the characters' journeys are truly empowering.
'Zero Fox Given' is a cozy, feel-good read with a perfect blend of warmth and romance, ideal for a relaxing escape into a world of endearing characters and heartfelt moments. 📚💕✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
In this charming tale, childhood sweethearts rediscover love through a fake engagement that leads to plenty of 'practice' – sizzling and sweet in equal measure. Fitz, a fox with a heart of gold, battles his insecurities while proving his worth beyond societal judgments. His growth and kindness shine through in his relationship with Maddie.
Maddie, confident and self-assured despite her own struggles, shines brightly as a relatable and likeable character. The chemistry between her and Fitz is palpable, their connection free of unnecessary drama, making their romance a joy to witness.
Representation plays a vital role in this story, particularly in Maddie's character who has ADHD.. Seeing authentic portrayals of individuals with ADHD, showcasing both strengths and vulnerabilities, resonates deeply with this reader who shares similar experiences. The inclusivity and relatability in the characters' journeys are truly empowering.
'Zero Fox Given' is a cozy, feel-good read with a perfect blend of warmth and romance, ideal for a relaxing escape into a world of endearing characters and heartfelt moments. 📚💕✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 18, 2024
Fitz Hall needs help. His family's distillery isn't what it once was. He has lots of ideas but no clue how to implement them.
His last hope is hiring Betaworth. When the woman, who shows up to help him, turns out to be his childhood sweetheart Maddie, Fitz is hardly able to keep his hands and his heart to himself.
As it turns out, Betaworth's help comes too late. Fitz has to borrow more money from his grandfather, but Ilwyn's got one condition. Only if Fitz' wedding is the first one at the distillery, he gets the loan.
Maddie offers to help Fitz' out by playing his wife for a year, but for how long will they be able to pretend without getting their hearts involved for good?
I'm officially in love with a fox 🫠
Even though the story involves darker themes (childhood sickness,...see TW) it's very sweet. Maddie and Fitz care deeply for each other and accept the other's quirks and needs without questions. You can feel the love growing between them from page to page 💛
I love the childhood friends to lovers trope so much. The "it's always been you" just hits different 🥹🥰 😭
His last hope is hiring Betaworth. When the woman, who shows up to help him, turns out to be his childhood sweetheart Maddie, Fitz is hardly able to keep his hands and his heart to himself.
As it turns out, Betaworth's help comes too late. Fitz has to borrow more money from his grandfather, but Ilwyn's got one condition. Only if Fitz' wedding is the first one at the distillery, he gets the loan.
Maddie offers to help Fitz' out by playing his wife for a year, but for how long will they be able to pretend without getting their hearts involved for good?
I'm officially in love with a fox 🫠
Even though the story involves darker themes (childhood sickness,...see TW) it's very sweet. Maddie and Fitz care deeply for each other and accept the other's quirks and needs without questions. You can feel the love growing between them from page to page 💛
I love the childhood friends to lovers trope so much. The "it's always been you" just hits different 🥹🥰 😭
April 9, 2024
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this book as I have never really read a romance with anthropomorphic animals ( or human animal hybrids) before, but let's just say I was NOT disappointed!
Rhea Fox has a writing style that instantly draws you in, making you feel like you really know the characters, so much so that at certain times I was squealing like a teenager who is excited their best friend is hooking up with their crush!
This is undoubtedly cozy romance, but don't worry there is PLENTY of spice for those that like that. A second chance romance for childhood sweethearts Maddie and Fitz, there were no super high stakes despite there being a marriage of convenience to save the family business. ADHD and disability rep too.
The world is so fleshed out that I often found myself wondering about the other characters, and as I am sure is Fox's intention, shipping them to that you simply have to pick up the other books in the world!
Rhea Fox has a writing style that instantly draws you in, making you feel like you really know the characters, so much so that at certain times I was squealing like a teenager who is excited their best friend is hooking up with their crush!
This is undoubtedly cozy romance, but don't worry there is PLENTY of spice for those that like that. A second chance romance for childhood sweethearts Maddie and Fitz, there were no super high stakes despite there being a marriage of convenience to save the family business. ADHD and disability rep too.
The world is so fleshed out that I often found myself wondering about the other characters, and as I am sure is Fox's intention, shipping them to that you simply have to pick up the other books in the world!
June 6, 2025
Another good addition to the cute romance series!
It was a very cute second chance romance, with childhood friends that find each other again when the company our FMC works for is hired by the MMC to help promote his expanding business.
The characters are both very sweet with their own challenges that they need to face. I liked that these traits were addressed and held space throughout the story having characters make adjustments to these constrains in the relationship and subjects they communicated through.
We had a cute progression of them getting to know each other again at the beginning, but quickly things became quite spicy.
I do enjoy that we get to see what characters from previous books are up to as they interact with our current MCs. It’s also fun that we see who our possible future MCs may be.
This has been a very cute and cozy romance series and I’m sure the next book won’t disappoint.
It was a very cute second chance romance, with childhood friends that find each other again when the company our FMC works for is hired by the MMC to help promote his expanding business.
The characters are both very sweet with their own challenges that they need to face. I liked that these traits were addressed and held space throughout the story having characters make adjustments to these constrains in the relationship and subjects they communicated through.
We had a cute progression of them getting to know each other again at the beginning, but quickly things became quite spicy.
I do enjoy that we get to see what characters from previous books are up to as they interact with our current MCs. It’s also fun that we see who our possible future MCs may be.
This has been a very cute and cozy romance series and I’m sure the next book won’t disappoint.
May 15, 2024
Fitz is my new book boyfriend
Marriage of convenience
ND rep
Disabled MC
As usual with Rhea’s books: SO. MUCH. COMPASSION. She knocks it out of the park with every book in my honest opinion.
I LOVED that Maddie falls for Fitz (again) in HOURS all the while Fitz is oblivious trying to scheme ways to make her fall in live with him and stay with him for ever. Adorable.
This book was filled to the brim with swoony moments and heat; all the while filled with enough tension and hurt for the characters to keep it interesting. Huge plus' are kilts (I'm married to a Scot and have a massive weakness for thigh meat), a full cast of side characters (many of which we know from the other Creatures & Coding books), and an underdog story I could really get behind and root for.
Marriage of convenience
ND rep
Disabled MC
As usual with Rhea’s books: SO. MUCH. COMPASSION. She knocks it out of the park with every book in my honest opinion.
I LOVED that Maddie falls for Fitz (again) in HOURS all the while Fitz is oblivious trying to scheme ways to make her fall in live with him and stay with him for ever. Adorable.
This book was filled to the brim with swoony moments and heat; all the while filled with enough tension and hurt for the characters to keep it interesting. Huge plus' are kilts (I'm married to a Scot and have a massive weakness for thigh meat), a full cast of side characters (many of which we know from the other Creatures & Coding books), and an underdog story I could really get behind and root for.
June 17, 2024
Rating: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Trope:
Monster Romance
Fake dating
Plot: Maddie and Fitz were once childhood sweethearts but they were separated once Fitz landed in a hospital and Maddie moved away from their hometown. For fifteen years, both of them thought of the other but neither reached out. So when a chance encounter brings them together, old emotions flare up again and with Fitz needing help to save his legacy, Maddie steps in and agrees to become his fake fiancee. But is it fake?
Thoughts: sooooooooo cute i love Maddie and Fitz. I was so excited for this book because disability representation is everything.
Safety:
Virgin/ Celebate: no
Cheating/sharing: no
Triggers: Abelism (Internal and External), Alcohol Consumption, (Past) Trauma for Patient and Carer, (Past) Hospitalization and (Past and Current) Rehab, Extreme Childhood Illness, Classism, Ageism
HEA: yesssssss
Spice: 3/5
Trope:
Monster Romance
Fake dating
Plot: Maddie and Fitz were once childhood sweethearts but they were separated once Fitz landed in a hospital and Maddie moved away from their hometown. For fifteen years, both of them thought of the other but neither reached out. So when a chance encounter brings them together, old emotions flare up again and with Fitz needing help to save his legacy, Maddie steps in and agrees to become his fake fiancee. But is it fake?
Thoughts: sooooooooo cute i love Maddie and Fitz. I was so excited for this book because disability representation is everything.
Safety:
Virgin/ Celebate: no
Cheating/sharing: no
Triggers: Abelism (Internal and External), Alcohol Consumption, (Past) Trauma for Patient and Carer, (Past) Hospitalization and (Past and Current) Rehab, Extreme Childhood Illness, Classism, Ageism
HEA: yesssssss
March 31, 2025
SUCH a cute second chance romance!
Thinking I need to get me a job at this tech company, man! Yet another absolutely perfect romance between a tech savvy girlie and her old school Mr. Fox 🦊
I love how Rhea makes her characters so empathetic to each others mental health! It is swoon worthy every single page!
My heart broke for these childhood best friends and sweethearts who were torn apart from each other and tossed unexpectedly back together in such a perfect way! Nothing like waiting until the last second to calm my nerves… but this couple is the sweetest (and Fitz has SUCH a mouth on him in private) and this was such a great story!
Thinking I need to get me a job at this tech company, man! Yet another absolutely perfect romance between a tech savvy girlie and her old school Mr. Fox 🦊
I love how Rhea makes her characters so empathetic to each others mental health! It is swoon worthy every single page!
My heart broke for these childhood best friends and sweethearts who were torn apart from each other and tossed unexpectedly back together in such a perfect way! Nothing like waiting until the last second to calm my nerves… but this couple is the sweetest (and Fitz has SUCH a mouth on him in private) and this was such a great story!
May 27, 2025
Like a Big ‘ol’ fluffy, foxy, very spicy cinnamon roll
I’m loving this super sweet, diverse world. The representation of various conditions is beautiful. If I didn’t have my very own cinnamon role, one might think the way these characters love hard is unreal. I love taking a trip through all these varied characters trips though limerence, it’s a sweet and spicy escape.
With platforms like KU making books available to readers en masse, I am loving the development of content via platforms like patron. Creatives deserve to be compensated for the lovely voyages they take us readers on.
If you like sweet/cozy monster romances, this series is for you!
I’m loving this super sweet, diverse world. The representation of various conditions is beautiful. If I didn’t have my very own cinnamon role, one might think the way these characters love hard is unreal. I love taking a trip through all these varied characters trips though limerence, it’s a sweet and spicy escape.
With platforms like KU making books available to readers en masse, I am loving the development of content via platforms like patron. Creatives deserve to be compensated for the lovely voyages they take us readers on.
If you like sweet/cozy monster romances, this series is for you!
September 17, 2024
Madeline and Friz
OMG I’m loving this whole series and yes the spice is off the charts 📈. But the writing is so amazing and keeps you very engaged. I loved how these characters in one of point of their lives they really knew each. Honestly they really looked out for each other in their younger years. If you read the blurb of course Friz gets very sick life threatening. So, his memory is not all that great but he still remembers Madeline. I love the difference of the characters and how they were able to come together. I love the writing and trust me you want get bored .
OMG I’m loving this whole series and yes the spice is off the charts 📈. But the writing is so amazing and keeps you very engaged. I loved how these characters in one of point of their lives they really knew each. Honestly they really looked out for each other in their younger years. If you read the blurb of course Friz gets very sick life threatening. So, his memory is not all that great but he still remembers Madeline. I love the difference of the characters and how they were able to come together. I love the writing and trust me you want get bored .
October 30, 2024
For the third episode of Season Seven, of the SFFRomCast, Emma and Jess were discussing some of their favourite books with the Friends to Lovers Trope! Jess chose Zero Fox Given as one of her recommendations. You can find out why here:
Podcasts: Episode Three, Season Seven
YouTube: Episode Three, Season Seven
Podcasts: Episode Three, Season Seven
YouTube: Episode Three, Season Seven
January 21, 2025
I love this kinky, monster world that Rhea Fox writes. Accepting and considerate creatures with lots of good spice.
Madeline and Fitz were best friends as children. When Fitz contracted rabies though and went away, Maddie's father lost his job and the family had to move. Fitz's grandfather worked to keep the two apart, but they are reunited when Maddie consults on improving Fitz's business 15 years later.
So many great tropes in this one, with mental health rep, neurodiversity rep, and some excellent kinks!
Madeline and Fitz were best friends as children. When Fitz contracted rabies though and went away, Maddie's father lost his job and the family had to move. Fitz's grandfather worked to keep the two apart, but they are reunited when Maddie consults on improving Fitz's business 15 years later.
So many great tropes in this one, with mental health rep, neurodiversity rep, and some excellent kinks!
January 19, 2024
So sweet!
The perfect book to curl up with and keep me sane while we were snowed in! Sweet and cozy and swoon worthy. Fitz and Maddie are amazing! I adored Maddie so much!! Seeing parts of myself in characters is always wonderful, and Rhea certainly accomplished it here! And Fitz! I need to figure out how to give my husband soft fox ears so I can run my fingers through the fur!
The perfect book to curl up with and keep me sane while we were snowed in! Sweet and cozy and swoon worthy. Fitz and Maddie are amazing! I adored Maddie so much!! Seeing parts of myself in characters is always wonderful, and Rhea certainly accomplished it here! And Fitz! I need to figure out how to give my husband soft fox ears so I can run my fingers through the fur!
March 31, 2024
swoon!!!
This book had me in a chokehold. I couldn’t stop reading it, I had to let people know I was okay because I hadn’t been active on Social Media while I was reading it. Haha Rhea Fox has done a wonderful job allowing you to really care about the characters and get involved in their lives. I adore this book, it’s definitely getting added to my favorites list. 💜
This book had me in a chokehold. I couldn’t stop reading it, I had to let people know I was okay because I hadn’t been active on Social Media while I was reading it. Haha Rhea Fox has done a wonderful job allowing you to really care about the characters and get involved in their lives. I adore this book, it’s definitely getting added to my favorites list. 💜
June 22, 2024
Super Spicy
“Adding completed tasks to lists so I can check them off is the quickest way to my heart.”
This book is fast paced and kinda insta-love, but I was laughing the whole time. Maddy reminds me so much of my friend with ADHD, and Fitz is so dedicated to his childhood sweetheart it made me swoon. This is also the best physical disability rep I’ve ever read. Very tasteful.
“Adding completed tasks to lists so I can check them off is the quickest way to my heart.”
This book is fast paced and kinda insta-love, but I was laughing the whole time. Maddy reminds me so much of my friend with ADHD, and Fitz is so dedicated to his childhood sweetheart it made me swoon. This is also the best physical disability rep I’ve ever read. Very tasteful.
January 9, 2025
Zero Fox Given stole my breath away! I love foxes-Disney’s Robin Hood was my favorite growing up- and Fitz makes for the perfect fox hero. Maddie was as engaging, lovable, and interesting as the other heroines of Creatures and Coding. I loved seeing these first loves find forever love. I’d recommend this read to any romance or fantasy fan.
March 15, 2025
Another amazing addition to this series! I'm addicted to the work of Rhea Fox. I love the focus on consent, and it's been present in every book in the series. Plus, I know it might not be the most important thing, but the characters actually use the bathroom! Other books I've read, there's always that little tickle in the back of my mind like, 'wow they sure are doing a lot of stuff, when do they have time for the bathroom?' And these are the first books I've read that actually include bathroom breaks in the story (not in a detailed way, but just that they're even mentioned made me happy).
March 28, 2025
This book was so sweet and spicy.
I loved the premise, that he was going to lose his distillery unless he accepted money from his grandfather, with the caveat that he had to get married. In steps his childhood sweetheart to save the day, not just by suggesting marriage with her, but with clever marketing skills.
I loved everything about this.
I loved the premise, that he was going to lose his distillery unless he accepted money from his grandfather, with the caveat that he had to get married. In steps his childhood sweetheart to save the day, not just by suggesting marriage with her, but with clever marketing skills.
I loved everything about this.
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