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Dragonfly
A wingless gargoyle, a woman on the run, and a tattoo parlor turned sanctuary. Cashiel Two-hundred years ago Cashiel “Cash” Windheart was cast out of his clan, his wings ripped from his back, doomed to a life of isolation as one of the Wingless. Now, he leads a quiet life at the Monstrous Ink tattoo parlor as one of the few monsters who can tattoo stone skin. That is until a pink-haired human with eyes the color of whiskey, and a dragonfly tattoo on her neck, stumbles into the shop looking for a job. Daphne New hair, a new name, and a hundred dollars in her pocket. That’s all Daphne Clarke has when her car breaks down in Port Haven, California, a sanctuary for monster-kind. Daphne isn’t familiar with monsters, but they can’t be any worse than her ex. After responding to an ad for a front desk receptionist at a local tattoo parlor, Daphne meets Cash, the solemn, wingless gargoyle. It’s only supposed to be temporary. But as the days pass, Daphne finds herself drawn to the gargoyle and dreading the day that her car is road-ready again.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2023
37 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 9, 2023
The prologue of Dragonfly is emotionally gripping and introduces Cash's (H) banishment from his gargoyle clan. The next chapter is a couple hundred years later and jumps into Mina/Daphne's (h) escape from an abusive marriage. Unfortunately, the emotional peak of this story for me was the prologue and I struggled to connect deeply with the remainder of the book. This was a new author for me and I think the writing style is simply not a good fit. The world-building was light in that this is our world with paranormal beings who are discovered and then there are accords created to protect and manage interactions.
The backgrounds of Cash and Daphne were detailed, but I thought became repetitive at times. I'm also 90% sure there were some inconsistencies in Cash's background and I had to force myself to keep reading and not dive into that. Also, let me go ahead and put in this spoiler because I wanted more (). I found the main characters' personalities to be appealing and the small, monster community that Daphne ends up taking shelter in to have great potential. The pacing of the romantic relationship though was a little too slow and left me with the impression of some underdevelopment overall.
The romance itself is very sweet and Cash is both gruff and protective, making for a secretly considerate and lovely love interest. He went on from his trauma to create his own family from his friends and become a successful tattooist and animal rescuer. Daphne's identity was a bit more muddled because she had flashes of resiliency and inner strength but then would revert back to a more watered-down version of herself as a survivor of abuse. Her actual personality wasn't able to come to the forefront as often as I would have liked. The story focuses on Daphne's flight across the country, finding herself in the mostly monster town of Port Haven, and being hired at the same tattoo shop as Cash, where she also finds her people. Of course, her past comes looking for her as well. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, om drama in the sense that h's abusive husband isn't willing to release her, and neither are virgins (it's mentioned that H has been celibate for decades).
Cash and Daphne have some awkward and stilted interactions until Daphne ends up in a tight spot, from which Cash rescues her and offers her a safe space to live. From there, these two fall into a friendly rhythm as Daphne starts getting her feet underneath her. Cute scenes involving cooking and the shop and all the animals Cash has. There's attraction simmering and a strange reaction that Cash has, that he suspects he knows what it actually is (and the reader can guess). The romantic side of their relationship doesn't become the focus until the last third of the book probably. The steamy times are, of course, even later than that. There are still a couple of scenes that get quite explicit and involve anatomical differences from an interacting tail to size difference solved by magic oil. The mating fever and claiming was awesome.
Many of the side characters here are clearly getting their own tales at some point. Backgrounds are hinted at and potential future relationships as well. The tattoo shop and town have a mix of paranormal beings that are interesting, even though some of the obvious set-ups had me questioning how angsty those romances would end up. One character at the shop does not take to Daphne and his development in the story was really good, I appreciated how the author moved him from active dislike to protectiveness. I loved that Daphne also had a college friend who never gave up on her and helped her escape her husband AND that the friend didn't magically fall to the wayside once Daphne was acclimating to her new town. The friend is still actively present.
The plot involving the ex felt a little too manufactured. How he pops back up and then how he presents the final danger to them didn't sit exactly right in my mind. The action was welcome though because it did provide good tension. The resolution was a little weak too in that the ex does get his comeuppance but I wasn't sure if those that had acted against Cash and Daphne would be in prison forever or if something more drastic was happening. The ending is HEA with a jump ahead a few weeks in the future and then several months into the future. The epilogue was very adorable and sweet and left me smiling. I don't think I'll be continuing the series though sadly, but I would guess that some of my reader friends would enjoy this more than I did.
The backgrounds of Cash and Daphne were detailed, but I thought became repetitive at times. I'm also 90% sure there were some inconsistencies in Cash's background and I had to force myself to keep reading and not dive into that. Also, let me go ahead and put in this spoiler because I wanted more (). I found the main characters' personalities to be appealing and the small, monster community that Daphne ends up taking shelter in to have great potential. The pacing of the romantic relationship though was a little too slow and left me with the impression of some underdevelopment overall.
The romance itself is very sweet and Cash is both gruff and protective, making for a secretly considerate and lovely love interest. He went on from his trauma to create his own family from his friends and become a successful tattooist and animal rescuer. Daphne's identity was a bit more muddled because she had flashes of resiliency and inner strength but then would revert back to a more watered-down version of herself as a survivor of abuse. Her actual personality wasn't able to come to the forefront as often as I would have liked. The story focuses on Daphne's flight across the country, finding herself in the mostly monster town of Port Haven, and being hired at the same tattoo shop as Cash, where she also finds her people. Of course, her past comes looking for her as well. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, om drama in the sense that h's abusive husband isn't willing to release her, and neither are virgins (it's mentioned that H has been celibate for decades).
Cash and Daphne have some awkward and stilted interactions until Daphne ends up in a tight spot, from which Cash rescues her and offers her a safe space to live. From there, these two fall into a friendly rhythm as Daphne starts getting her feet underneath her. Cute scenes involving cooking and the shop and all the animals Cash has. There's attraction simmering and a strange reaction that Cash has, that he suspects he knows what it actually is (and the reader can guess). The romantic side of their relationship doesn't become the focus until the last third of the book probably. The steamy times are, of course, even later than that. There are still a couple of scenes that get quite explicit and involve anatomical differences from an interacting tail to size difference solved by magic oil. The mating fever and claiming was awesome.
Many of the side characters here are clearly getting their own tales at some point. Backgrounds are hinted at and potential future relationships as well. The tattoo shop and town have a mix of paranormal beings that are interesting, even though some of the obvious set-ups had me questioning how angsty those romances would end up. One character at the shop does not take to Daphne and his development in the story was really good, I appreciated how the author moved him from active dislike to protectiveness. I loved that Daphne also had a college friend who never gave up on her and helped her escape her husband AND that the friend didn't magically fall to the wayside once Daphne was acclimating to her new town. The friend is still actively present.
The plot involving the ex felt a little too manufactured. How he pops back up and then how he presents the final danger to them didn't sit exactly right in my mind. The action was welcome though because it did provide good tension. The resolution was a little weak too in that the ex does get his comeuppance but I wasn't sure if those that had acted against Cash and Daphne would be in prison forever or if something more drastic was happening. The ending is HEA with a jump ahead a few weeks in the future and then several months into the future. The epilogue was very adorable and sweet and left me smiling. I don't think I'll be continuing the series though sadly, but I would guess that some of my reader friends would enjoy this more than I did.
October 25, 2023
“Dragonfly” by Calliope Stewart takes the cake as one of my favorite monster romances of the year!
“Dragonfly” is Stewart’s unique interpretation of monster romance, where the MMC is a wingless gargoyle. Being Wingless means that you’re outcast from the gargoyle community. As an outcast, Cash forms his own pack with the artists of Monstrous Ink, the tattoo parlor in the monster sanctuary town. Unbeknownst to him, the new receptionist is a woman on the run from her own past.
Daphne, or Mina, depending on who’s asking, has recently left a very abusive relationship. On the run, she ends up in the small town of Port Haven after her car breaks down. While there, she takes up a job as a receptionist for a tattoo parlor.
The tattoo shop itself houses various artists of all different species. If you’ve grown tired of monster romance comprising of wolves and vampires, then Monstrous Ink is going to delight you in the best of ways! We have a variety of lesser known monsters, like cthulhu, which makes for a unique reading experience.
While there are heavier themes in this book, such as DV, I do appreciate that Stewart made the book light enough to still enjoy. I would describe this as a cozy monster romance, perfect for fans of Hazel Mack. It’s certainly one of my top reads of the year!
“Dragonfly” is Stewart’s unique interpretation of monster romance, where the MMC is a wingless gargoyle. Being Wingless means that you’re outcast from the gargoyle community. As an outcast, Cash forms his own pack with the artists of Monstrous Ink, the tattoo parlor in the monster sanctuary town. Unbeknownst to him, the new receptionist is a woman on the run from her own past.
Daphne, or Mina, depending on who’s asking, has recently left a very abusive relationship. On the run, she ends up in the small town of Port Haven after her car breaks down. While there, she takes up a job as a receptionist for a tattoo parlor.
The tattoo shop itself houses various artists of all different species. If you’ve grown tired of monster romance comprising of wolves and vampires, then Monstrous Ink is going to delight you in the best of ways! We have a variety of lesser known monsters, like cthulhu, which makes for a unique reading experience.
While there are heavier themes in this book, such as DV, I do appreciate that Stewart made the book light enough to still enjoy. I would describe this as a cozy monster romance, perfect for fans of Hazel Mack. It’s certainly one of my top reads of the year!
March 17, 2024
My song was lonely before you
This was a surprisingly lovely fun read. The characters were so vivid and vibrant. The author does a wonderful job creating a new world where humans and supernaturals live in harmony, well sort of. The banter and love that was apparent between each person in the group gave the story more depth of meaning, even the grumpy one. The heartsong was a beautiful addition to understanding the supernaturals of this story. I also loved that the rescue of abused and neglected animals was integrated so well into the storyline. It does deal with a few heavy topics, so use care and read the TW.
This was a surprisingly lovely fun read. The characters were so vivid and vibrant. The author does a wonderful job creating a new world where humans and supernaturals live in harmony, well sort of. The banter and love that was apparent between each person in the group gave the story more depth of meaning, even the grumpy one. The heartsong was a beautiful addition to understanding the supernaturals of this story. I also loved that the rescue of abused and neglected animals was integrated so well into the storyline. It does deal with a few heavy topics, so use care and read the TW.
October 27, 2023
disclaimer: I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I LOVEEEE a good monster romance book and from the start i was immediately drawn to this book. I love a good grumpy mmc and Cash was the perfect mix of grumpy and sweet. i adored him and his silent broody protective personality. he had such a sweet spirit deep down and he loves fiercely. i just loveddd him.
Daphne was so sweet too. I love a strong woman who knows her worth and she fought for her happiness and just exuded strength. She was such a fun character from her pink hair, her dragonfly tattoo, and her love for animals.
While I loved the main characters, I was OBSESSSEEDDDD with the side characters. I cannot wait to get the monsters at the tattoo shops stories. Effie, my love, i can’t wait for you. and Heath?!?! i love him. i love him sm. I cannot waitttt.
All in all this was a pretty low angst book. the conflict is resolved fairly quick and of course there’s an hea with an ADORABLE epilogue! it was a 5/5 read for me 😇 i can’t wait to see more of this series and hopefully more of Daphne and Cash in future books 🫶
thank you Calliope for the arc!
I LOVEEEE a good monster romance book and from the start i was immediately drawn to this book. I love a good grumpy mmc and Cash was the perfect mix of grumpy and sweet. i adored him and his silent broody protective personality. he had such a sweet spirit deep down and he loves fiercely. i just loveddd him.
Daphne was so sweet too. I love a strong woman who knows her worth and she fought for her happiness and just exuded strength. She was such a fun character from her pink hair, her dragonfly tattoo, and her love for animals.
While I loved the main characters, I was OBSESSSEEDDDD with the side characters. I cannot wait to get the monsters at the tattoo shops stories. Effie, my love, i can’t wait for you. and Heath?!?! i love him. i love him sm. I cannot waitttt.
All in all this was a pretty low angst book. the conflict is resolved fairly quick and of course there’s an hea with an ADORABLE epilogue! it was a 5/5 read for me 😇 i can’t wait to see more of this series and hopefully more of Daphne and Cash in future books 🫶
thank you Calliope for the arc!
October 30, 2023
Really liked this sweet romance
This was cute, adorable and just well sweet! Daphne and Cash were everything and their relationship was beautiful. I also loved all of the characters at Monstrous Ink and hope we get all of their stories.
This was cute, adorable and just well sweet! Daphne and Cash were everything and their relationship was beautiful. I also loved all of the characters at Monstrous Ink and hope we get all of their stories.
October 22, 2023
I was so surprised when I opened my email and found out I got an ARC for this! So what did I do? Dropped everything and read it immediately. I adored this. Cash is probably one of my top favorite book boyfriends.
The story follows Daphne, a human who is in the process of escaping an abusive relationship and ends up in a pro-monster town. From there she applies for a job at Monstrous Ink and meets Cash & the gang. I would love to see more of Daphne & Cash's relationship in this universe with other characters!! I'd love to see Ambrose get a happy ending too. Overall, this was such a sweet read and perfect for Halloween.
*please check trigger warnings before you read & make sure you're in an okay headspace before reading!!*
The story follows Daphne, a human who is in the process of escaping an abusive relationship and ends up in a pro-monster town. From there she applies for a job at Monstrous Ink and meets Cash & the gang. I would love to see more of Daphne & Cash's relationship in this universe with other characters!! I'd love to see Ambrose get a happy ending too. Overall, this was such a sweet read and perfect for Halloween.
*please check trigger warnings before you read & make sure you're in an okay headspace before reading!!*
October 23, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book was perfect monster sweetness. Daphne has been in a bad situation and thankfully is getting out. On that journey things don’t go to plan and she ends up in a monster sanctuary town. Through some luck she ends up working at a tattoo parlor. The whole cast of characters I was hooked on from the start. Cash has his own difficult past. The tattoo shop employees are really their own found family. I loved watching Daphne and Cash come together. His protective instincts are so sweet. And the whole gang coming together to help protect Daphne was everything. I loved this story and I’m really hoping to get more in this universe.
November 4, 2023
I just love a good, wholesome, sweet, monster romance! 😍 And Calliope Stewart never disappoints in general!
In this monster romance, we start out by meeting Cash who becomes a Wingless with his clan of Gargoyles. To become a Wingless is a fate worse than death. It's when a Gargoyle is stripped of his/her wings and is shunned by all Gargoyles for the rest of their known existence. Terrible. In this beginning instance we get a slight glimpse at Cash's sweet nature and heart because the cause for his Wingless sentence is that he saved a human child from frozen water - but due to the cruelty of humans, the child had lead the townsfolk to the Gargoyles village and they killed two of Cash's brethren (smashed them while they were in stone sleep). So, his punishment for the domino effect of saving the child = become a Wingless.
And so. Many many many years later, we then meet Mina! Mina is a young housewife who just hit her abusive husband upside the head, knocked him out cold and has decided now is the time to make the run from her husband!! She digs up her money she's been hiding away in the garden, calls her best friend for moral support, finds a little auto body shop that will sell her a cheap Volkswagen Beetle - that she names Peep, and she hits the road headed west!
Good ol' Peep gets her all the way to Port Haven, California before it calls it donsies. Well, down to her last dollar anyway. Mina has changed her hair (bright bubblegum pink) and name to Daphne, and she needs to now get a job to fix Peep so she can keep moving on before Abusive-A-Hole-Mike catches up to her. Funny how Peep decided to die in this Monster filled area. Funny how Daphne felt compelled to go to a coffee shop for a coffee. Funny how a certain tattoo flyer flapped in the wind hanging in the coffee shop stating "receptionist wanted." Funny how she felt compelled to go check it out. Funny how she got the job with like, no work experience. Funny. Like fate or something.
Daphne goes to the tattoo shop, meets all types of monsters, especially a special grumpy (uh, a sweet and wholesome and loveable and adorable - if you ask me) Gargoyle named Cash. (Gotta love a good Grumpy/Silent type with the Sweet Bubblegum Type)
Alright. Long story short. Cash finds out she sleeping in her car, makes her come home with him. He realizes she is his Heartsong (Gargoyles mate), he admits it her, she's okay with it, it's wonderful, Abusive-A-Hole-Mike comes back into the picture, drama happens oh no, read and find out, rescue mission, monsters galore throughout the book, laughs, jokes, just read it!
I was really impressed with how well written Daphne was. She wasn't an overly strong FMC, but she wasn't meek and timid for and abused runaway. I was worried she was going to take a minute to open up, but I think the pace was perfect!
Also, LOVED Effie! I need a nymph best friend and can't wait for her and Dallan's story!!
In this monster romance, we start out by meeting Cash who becomes a Wingless with his clan of Gargoyles. To become a Wingless is a fate worse than death. It's when a Gargoyle is stripped of his/her wings and is shunned by all Gargoyles for the rest of their known existence. Terrible. In this beginning instance we get a slight glimpse at Cash's sweet nature and heart because the cause for his Wingless sentence is that he saved a human child from frozen water - but due to the cruelty of humans, the child had lead the townsfolk to the Gargoyles village and they killed two of Cash's brethren (smashed them while they were in stone sleep). So, his punishment for the domino effect of saving the child = become a Wingless.
And so. Many many many years later, we then meet Mina! Mina is a young housewife who just hit her abusive husband upside the head, knocked him out cold and has decided now is the time to make the run from her husband!! She digs up her money she's been hiding away in the garden, calls her best friend for moral support, finds a little auto body shop that will sell her a cheap Volkswagen Beetle - that she names Peep, and she hits the road headed west!
Good ol' Peep gets her all the way to Port Haven, California before it calls it donsies. Well, down to her last dollar anyway. Mina has changed her hair (bright bubblegum pink) and name to Daphne, and she needs to now get a job to fix Peep so she can keep moving on before Abusive-A-Hole-Mike catches up to her. Funny how Peep decided to die in this Monster filled area. Funny how Daphne felt compelled to go to a coffee shop for a coffee. Funny how a certain tattoo flyer flapped in the wind hanging in the coffee shop stating "receptionist wanted." Funny how she felt compelled to go check it out. Funny how she got the job with like, no work experience. Funny. Like fate or something.
Daphne goes to the tattoo shop, meets all types of monsters, especially a special grumpy (uh, a sweet and wholesome and loveable and adorable - if you ask me) Gargoyle named Cash. (Gotta love a good Grumpy/Silent type with the Sweet Bubblegum Type)
Alright. Long story short. Cash finds out she sleeping in her car, makes her come home with him. He realizes she is his Heartsong (Gargoyles mate), he admits it her, she's okay with it, it's wonderful, Abusive-A-Hole-Mike comes back into the picture, drama happens oh no, read and find out, rescue mission, monsters galore throughout the book, laughs, jokes, just read it!
I was really impressed with how well written Daphne was. She wasn't an overly strong FMC, but she wasn't meek and timid for and abused runaway. I was worried she was going to take a minute to open up, but I think the pace was perfect!
Also, LOVED Effie! I need a nymph best friend and can't wait for her and Dallan's story!!
October 25, 2023
Mood: You're looking for a man (literally) made of stone with the ooey gooiest center.
I always love Calliope Stewart but I didn't know I would love it this much!
Cash is a wingless gargoyle with an incredibly long lifespan and a harrowing backstory. Daphne is on the run from a despicable ex who actively isolated and controlled her, before he started laying hands on her.
Well, one day she gets fed up and introduces his head to a blunt object and enacts an escape plan she built with the best friend she secretly reconnected with. Part of the escape plan involves buying a clunker and making it all the way to the West Coast but her little Bug (she nicknames it Peep!) has other plans. That plan involves breaking down in a monster sanctuary town, monsters are totally mainstream in this world and live alongside humans in varying degrees of harmony.
She can't afford to continue on when Peep breaks down so she ends up settling in the town and finding a job at Monstrous Ink, a monster tattoo shop. She quickly becomes part of the team and draws the appreciation of most of the team, but none more than Cash who can't admit exactly why he's drawn to her (:cough: fated mates :cough:). She originally has plans to leave town as soon as Peep is in traveling condition but becomes enamored with Monstrous Ink, Cash, and his animal sanctuary farm. And then, of course, her ex shows up with ulterior motives and information she doesn't even know about her past.
It's up to her to figure out what's next? Stay in town? Keep traveling on? Or will her ex win?
Anywho, read this! Perfect for spooky season and all the other seasons when you need a big (YES, BIIIIIIG) strong man who goes warm and fuzzy for the right woman.
I always love Calliope Stewart but I didn't know I would love it this much!
Cash is a wingless gargoyle with an incredibly long lifespan and a harrowing backstory. Daphne is on the run from a despicable ex who actively isolated and controlled her, before he started laying hands on her.
Well, one day she gets fed up and introduces his head to a blunt object and enacts an escape plan she built with the best friend she secretly reconnected with. Part of the escape plan involves buying a clunker and making it all the way to the West Coast but her little Bug (she nicknames it Peep!) has other plans. That plan involves breaking down in a monster sanctuary town, monsters are totally mainstream in this world and live alongside humans in varying degrees of harmony.
She can't afford to continue on when Peep breaks down so she ends up settling in the town and finding a job at Monstrous Ink, a monster tattoo shop. She quickly becomes part of the team and draws the appreciation of most of the team, but none more than Cash who can't admit exactly why he's drawn to her (:cough: fated mates :cough:). She originally has plans to leave town as soon as Peep is in traveling condition but becomes enamored with Monstrous Ink, Cash, and his animal sanctuary farm. And then, of course, her ex shows up with ulterior motives and information she doesn't even know about her past.
It's up to her to figure out what's next? Stay in town? Keep traveling on? Or will her ex win?
Anywho, read this! Perfect for spooky season and all the other seasons when you need a big (YES, BIIIIIIG) strong man who goes warm and fuzzy for the right woman.
November 24, 2023
i rarely read the paranormal/fantasy/monsters genre but i thought the book was okay in general. however there is one thing i hate in a lot of author's execution, which is repeatedly mentioning something but never bother to explain in more details.
for example in this book, there were a couple of instances which have hinted at the heroine being brought up in a well-to-do family like having a chef, owning horses etc. and then the heroine's ex-husband revealing that her mum was one of the richest women in the country yada yada, yet despite having mentioned all the above, readers have no idea what the hell does the heroine's mother do to be one of the riches women in the country? the background story fell short because if the author doesn't wanna go into details, she should have not highlight this point multiple times. it's kind of like dangling a carrot in front of a rabbit but is not planning to hand it over.
another thing is the heroine's ability to see "glamour". firstly, the explanation is insufficient as i still don't really get what is it. is it like an overcoat? or a transparent shield cover etc.? and because the heroine can see the "glamour shimmer", it was suggesting the heroine might not be fully human but this "suggestion" did not went into details as well. the heroine just maintained that her father is human though he was just a sperm donor. and that's the end of this point, another dangling carrot...
i would have like the book a little more if it have more details.
for example in this book, there were a couple of instances which have hinted at the heroine being brought up in a well-to-do family like having a chef, owning horses etc. and then the heroine's ex-husband revealing that her mum was one of the richest women in the country yada yada, yet despite having mentioned all the above, readers have no idea what the hell does the heroine's mother do to be one of the riches women in the country? the background story fell short because if the author doesn't wanna go into details, she should have not highlight this point multiple times. it's kind of like dangling a carrot in front of a rabbit but is not planning to hand it over.
another thing is the heroine's ability to see "glamour". firstly, the explanation is insufficient as i still don't really get what is it. is it like an overcoat? or a transparent shield cover etc.? and because the heroine can see the "glamour shimmer", it was suggesting the heroine might not be fully human but this "suggestion" did not went into details as well. the heroine just maintained that her father is human though he was just a sperm donor. and that's the end of this point, another dangling carrot...
i would have like the book a little more if it have more details.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2023
Who Needs Wings To Fly 🪽🪽🪽
First, I’d like to gush over how gorgeous the cover is for this book. It’s stunning 😍 I’d read it for that reason alone, except the blurb also sounded amazing too….soooo, win win 😝🫶🏼
I’m drawn to stories like this, where the FMC is on the run, or hiding, from an abusive husband/boyfriend, and they end up finding the person that will ultimately help them heal & find strength they didn’t know they had. Daphne/Mina is definitely one of those characters, and Cash lives up to being the supportive new man (or gargoyle in this case 😉) in her life. Cash isn’t the only one that helps build her back up though. She finds support from the other “monsters” they work with at the tattoo shop that took a chance on her when she needed it, and on top of that, she finds new friends in the town that her car stranded her in when she was running from her old life. This is a humorous & heartwarming story balanced perfectly with spice & passion, but also a touch of mystery, danger & action to keep you guessing. By the end you will have met so many characters that are just begging you to come back so that you can see them also get a HEA. Callie did an amazing job building this world without overdoing it, and an even better job at giving you secondary characters that you get attached to just as much as the main characters. I can’t wait for more stories set in this magical new world that I happily lost myself in for a few hours ✨💖✨
First, I’d like to gush over how gorgeous the cover is for this book. It’s stunning 😍 I’d read it for that reason alone, except the blurb also sounded amazing too….soooo, win win 😝🫶🏼
I’m drawn to stories like this, where the FMC is on the run, or hiding, from an abusive husband/boyfriend, and they end up finding the person that will ultimately help them heal & find strength they didn’t know they had. Daphne/Mina is definitely one of those characters, and Cash lives up to being the supportive new man (or gargoyle in this case 😉) in her life. Cash isn’t the only one that helps build her back up though. She finds support from the other “monsters” they work with at the tattoo shop that took a chance on her when she needed it, and on top of that, she finds new friends in the town that her car stranded her in when she was running from her old life. This is a humorous & heartwarming story balanced perfectly with spice & passion, but also a touch of mystery, danger & action to keep you guessing. By the end you will have met so many characters that are just begging you to come back so that you can see them also get a HEA. Callie did an amazing job building this world without overdoing it, and an even better job at giving you secondary characters that you get attached to just as much as the main characters. I can’t wait for more stories set in this magical new world that I happily lost myself in for a few hours ✨💖✨
November 5, 2023
I love Cash! I would like him as my own, please!
This story was incredibly sweet for having such a rough start. Both Cash and Daphne have horrible, traumatic, abusive backgrounds that they left - both finding refuge (at very different times) at a monster tattoo shop.
I really enjoyed Calliope Stewart's monster world. It's very similar to modern day but with all kinds of monsters! The monsters have integrated into society better in some places than others. There is prejudice towards them but its more in passing than the focal point of the story.
Cash and Daphne are never really enemies but there is tension there and they are quickly forced into friendship. I looooved seeing their relationship grow and change. Plus Cash literally lives on a farm and rescues/fosters neglected animals. Done. Sold. Sign me up.
Once Daphne makes her way to California and Monstrous Ink we are introduced to an amazing cast of monster artists. I cannot wait to learn more about Effie and Heath since they are my absolute favorites. Although I think Ambrose's story will break my heart.
It's a quick, short read but definitely worth it. Calliope Stewart writes characters and settings in a way that is hard to put down and makes you want to pull an all nighter to finish the story!
This story was incredibly sweet for having such a rough start. Both Cash and Daphne have horrible, traumatic, abusive backgrounds that they left - both finding refuge (at very different times) at a monster tattoo shop.
I really enjoyed Calliope Stewart's monster world. It's very similar to modern day but with all kinds of monsters! The monsters have integrated into society better in some places than others. There is prejudice towards them but its more in passing than the focal point of the story.
Cash and Daphne are never really enemies but there is tension there and they are quickly forced into friendship. I looooved seeing their relationship grow and change. Plus Cash literally lives on a farm and rescues/fosters neglected animals. Done. Sold. Sign me up.
Once Daphne makes her way to California and Monstrous Ink we are introduced to an amazing cast of monster artists. I cannot wait to learn more about Effie and Heath since they are my absolute favorites. Although I think Ambrose's story will break my heart.
It's a quick, short read but definitely worth it. Calliope Stewart writes characters and settings in a way that is hard to put down and makes you want to pull an all nighter to finish the story!
December 1, 2023
This has to be one of my favourite out of Calliopes books.
This was sweet and all around wholesome.
Cash, a wingless gargoyle, banished from his clan and left to the world, finds a way to live through he pain of being wingless and alone, tattooing the monsters of the lands, a talent that is in high demand. Cash with his tough exterior is truly a softy and is protective.
Daphne/Mina is running from an abusive marriage and when fate kicks in and her car breaks down, she needs money to continue so she finds herself a job as a receptionist at Monstrous Ink and in turn finding Cash.
Both faced challenges that alone were tough to fight and overcome and find a few new challenges but together Cash and Daphne find just what they were needing.
There were so many sweet moments in this, other monsters who took Daphne under their watch and were protective of her, taking care of her in kind ways that showed her that not all in the world are horrible. Loved Effie, she was a firecracker of a woman who knew how to handle the men at Monstrous Ink and was just a great friend. I look forward to her story in the future.
This was sweet and all around wholesome.
Cash, a wingless gargoyle, banished from his clan and left to the world, finds a way to live through he pain of being wingless and alone, tattooing the monsters of the lands, a talent that is in high demand. Cash with his tough exterior is truly a softy and is protective.
Daphne/Mina is running from an abusive marriage and when fate kicks in and her car breaks down, she needs money to continue so she finds herself a job as a receptionist at Monstrous Ink and in turn finding Cash.
Both faced challenges that alone were tough to fight and overcome and find a few new challenges but together Cash and Daphne find just what they were needing.
There were so many sweet moments in this, other monsters who took Daphne under their watch and were protective of her, taking care of her in kind ways that showed her that not all in the world are horrible. Loved Effie, she was a firecracker of a woman who knew how to handle the men at Monstrous Ink and was just a great friend. I look forward to her story in the future.
October 22, 2023
Like everything else written by Calliope Stewart, I loved this book! It's fitting for Halloween too. I always look forward to that time of the year, since that's when the good monster romance books come out. I wasn't disappointed, but I admit, I had hoped for another Knot Today Satan book.
Daphne is on the run from her abusive husband. Cashiel "Cash" is a wingless gargoyle, who is shunned by his kind. Both of them hold a lot of pain and past baggage.
I loved to see those two interact with each other and see their relationship grow over time. Not only that, but the people around them made the story so great, either. It really felt like a family. The characters were all unique and there were a lot of funny moments too.
I can't wait to read the next books in the universe. I think the next one will be about Effie and Dallan. But hopefully Ambrose isn't far behind! That grumpy dark elf deserves love in his life.
Daphne is on the run from her abusive husband. Cashiel "Cash" is a wingless gargoyle, who is shunned by his kind. Both of them hold a lot of pain and past baggage.
I loved to see those two interact with each other and see their relationship grow over time. Not only that, but the people around them made the story so great, either. It really felt like a family. The characters were all unique and there were a lot of funny moments too.
I can't wait to read the next books in the universe. I think the next one will be about Effie and Dallan. But hopefully Ambrose isn't far behind! That grumpy dark elf deserves love in his life.
October 28, 2023
“The way Daphne made me feel was almost the exact same way I felt when I used to be able to fly. Like everything in the world was light and airy.”
This was so stinkin’ sweet! Trust me, it’s a slow burn with spice but ugh. Cash & Daphne were so sweet. The way Cash was so protective of her and willing to help her from the beginning warmed my heart.
This felt like a small town romance but also not at the same time…it’s hard to explain. You get all the fun from a small town romance with a fun found family, locals who know and have history with other locals and more but the setting was so fun. I could picture the little beach town with this monster tattoo shop that I would definitely find my way into.
I would’ve love to have known just a smidge more about Daphne’s background with the parentage but overall, I had a lot of fun reading this book. It was quick, sweet, spicy and had an entertaining plot.
*ARC review*
This was so stinkin’ sweet! Trust me, it’s a slow burn with spice but ugh. Cash & Daphne were so sweet. The way Cash was so protective of her and willing to help her from the beginning warmed my heart.
This felt like a small town romance but also not at the same time…it’s hard to explain. You get all the fun from a small town romance with a fun found family, locals who know and have history with other locals and more but the setting was so fun. I could picture the little beach town with this monster tattoo shop that I would definitely find my way into.
I would’ve love to have known just a smidge more about Daphne’s background with the parentage but overall, I had a lot of fun reading this book. It was quick, sweet, spicy and had an entertaining plot.
*ARC review*
October 20, 2023
A perfect read in time for Halloween!
Cash is a wingless gargoyle, having been banished from his clan for something he did in his past. Daphne is a woman on the run from her abusive husband, who comes to work at Cash’s tattoo shop ‘Monstrous Ink’ and reinvents herself, to stay off her ex’s radar.
It was so fun to see this grumpy gargoyle fall for this sweet woman, as well as all the other lovely monsters working with them. I can’t wait for the next one in this series. Sweet monster romance with a dash of grumpy monster? Yes please, sign me up. If you’re familiar with Calliope’s Stewart omegaverse books, you know exactly how good she is at depriving a sweet romance. It was so exciting to see her first foray into monster romance, and she didn’t disappoint!
As always, check trigger warnings. Your mental health matters.
Cash is a wingless gargoyle, having been banished from his clan for something he did in his past. Daphne is a woman on the run from her abusive husband, who comes to work at Cash’s tattoo shop ‘Monstrous Ink’ and reinvents herself, to stay off her ex’s radar.
It was so fun to see this grumpy gargoyle fall for this sweet woman, as well as all the other lovely monsters working with them. I can’t wait for the next one in this series. Sweet monster romance with a dash of grumpy monster? Yes please, sign me up. If you’re familiar with Calliope’s Stewart omegaverse books, you know exactly how good she is at depriving a sweet romance. It was so exciting to see her first foray into monster romance, and she didn’t disappoint!
As always, check trigger warnings. Your mental health matters.
October 27, 2023
🩷Monsters
🩷Small Town
🩷Friends to Lovers
🩷Found Family
I adore Calliope’s books! They always leave me with a happy heart. And Dragonfly is no different. This was my first monster romance and it gave me all the feels and is what I would consider a comfort read. Mina is on the run from her abusive husband and her car breaks down in a small coastal town. She is down on her luck and happens to find a job as a receptionist at Monstrous Ink Tattoo Parlor. Here she meets several monsters and supernatural beings including Cash. He is a wingless gargoyle that has been banished by his kind. I loved Cash so much! He is everything Mina needed and she ended up being his world. I loved the found family aspect of this story and Mina finding a home in the quaint little monster sanctuary. This was the perfect October read and has me on the hunt for more monster romances!
🩷Small Town
🩷Friends to Lovers
🩷Found Family
I adore Calliope’s books! They always leave me with a happy heart. And Dragonfly is no different. This was my first monster romance and it gave me all the feels and is what I would consider a comfort read. Mina is on the run from her abusive husband and her car breaks down in a small coastal town. She is down on her luck and happens to find a job as a receptionist at Monstrous Ink Tattoo Parlor. Here she meets several monsters and supernatural beings including Cash. He is a wingless gargoyle that has been banished by his kind. I loved Cash so much! He is everything Mina needed and she ended up being his world. I loved the found family aspect of this story and Mina finding a home in the quaint little monster sanctuary. This was the perfect October read and has me on the hunt for more monster romances!
October 27, 2023
Daphne is on the run, and after her car breaks down, she must look for employment. Enter in Monstrous Ink. A tattoo shop in desperate need of a receptionist. There, she meets Cash, one of the tattoo artists and a gargoyle. After having been banished from his clan, he's lived a solitary life. He's always been one to mind his business. When Daphne's past comes back into the picture, he can no longer ignore his feelings for her.
I have loved this author's omegaverse books, so I was excited to give this new series a shot. Monster romance and mf, this one definitely progresses more of a slow burn. Daphne and Cash each had their hang-ups, and I'm so glad they got to know each other before they jumped into any type of relationship. I'm so freaking intrigued by the side characters. I'm going to need their stories asap!
I have loved this author's omegaverse books, so I was excited to give this new series a shot. Monster romance and mf, this one definitely progresses more of a slow burn. Daphne and Cash each had their hang-ups, and I'm so glad they got to know each other before they jumped into any type of relationship. I'm so freaking intrigued by the side characters. I'm going to need their stories asap!
October 30, 2023
I loved this story. I loved the background of all the characters and the world of how the monsters and humans were integrated. One idea on that that stuck out to me was the monsters live longer lives, so even though the treaty, or accords happened like 50 years ago (a long time for Daphne, before she was even born), it was like no time at all for a monster who is hundreds of years old…. That was interesting to think about…. Loved the grumpy cinnamon roll of Cash. I loved that he was the one connected to our damaged FMC. And I loved that everyone came to her aid when she needed it. All in all, the story had good humor, good steam, good growth and a lovely HEA. I kept wanting to turn the page at the end, I just didn’t want to close the story out! Loved it. (How many times can I used the word "loved" in a review? Evidently a lot. You get the picture.)
November 15, 2023
Calliope Stewart has once again crafted a spellbinding tale with Dragonfly. From the first page, I was swept away by the enchanting narrative. Mina's journey from escaping her troubles to discovering an unexpected haven in a coastal town is nothing short of heartwarming. The quirky ensemble of supernatural characters, especially the endearing Cash, a wingless gargoyle, adds a delightful twist to the story. The found family theme weaves seamlessly into the narrative, making Dragonfly a perfect fusion of romance and comfort. Stewart's storytelling prowess shines through, making this a must-read for those in search of a heartening escape into a world where monsters and love coexist effortlessly. Dragonfly has left an indelible mark on my reading experience, leaving me eagerly anticipating more from Calliope Stewart's imaginative pen.
December 20, 2023
I picked up this one after flipping back and forth on it for a while. This one is one of the newest releases from Calliope Stewart, who is starting to become one of my favorite authors, and I should’ve just instantly picked this one up. In this book, we focus on Daphne as she escapes a very toxic, abusive marriage and runs clear across the country to start over. I liked following that journey with her. I really loved the small town that she ended up in and how it’s a monster sanctuary. I just wish we got to see a little bit more of it. This book is the first in a new series, and I’m curious to see where we go next. I hope everyone at the tattoo shop gets a book, but I know the next one will be about Effie and Dallan, and I cannot wait to learn more about this situation!
October 26, 2023
I loved reading Calliope's first monster romance, and I can't wait for more! Daphne finally found a way to leave her abusive husband and finds herself in a small town that also happened to be a monster sanctuary. She needs a job and is able to secure one at a tattoo parlor that specialized in tattooing for monsters. Cash usually keeps to himself, but there's just something about the new human receptionist. He helps her out, and things blossom from there. Of course, there will be ex drama, but Daphne and Cash get their HEA in the end. This book is a bit of a slow burn, and the spice it good once it happens. Check the triggers before reading.
October 31, 2023
Sweet Monster Romance? Yes Please!
Disclaimer:
I did receive the ARC in return for an honest review!
I think have to start out by saying I may be a bit biased as I absolutely LOVE Calliope Stewart’s books!
In this sweet monster romance we met Daphne who is on the run from her a**hole of a husband. She hopes to just blend in, but dang it if she doesn’t catch the eye of Cash, a wingless gargoyle. Of course Daphne has to have to fun loving, sassy friends to round out the story!
I think Cash is my favorite character for the whole book as he is the perfect amount of broody and sweet. Through the story you see both Cash and Daphne overcome their own fears and obstacles in not only their relationship, but also their lives!
I was amazed at how flawlessly this book came together, I wished it didn’t have to end and I’m looking forward to more books set in this world! Especially the sassy Effie!
Disclaimer:
I did receive the ARC in return for an honest review!
I think have to start out by saying I may be a bit biased as I absolutely LOVE Calliope Stewart’s books!
In this sweet monster romance we met Daphne who is on the run from her a**hole of a husband. She hopes to just blend in, but dang it if she doesn’t catch the eye of Cash, a wingless gargoyle. Of course Daphne has to have to fun loving, sassy friends to round out the story!
I think Cash is my favorite character for the whole book as he is the perfect amount of broody and sweet. Through the story you see both Cash and Daphne overcome their own fears and obstacles in not only their relationship, but also their lives!
I was amazed at how flawlessly this book came together, I wished it didn’t have to end and I’m looking forward to more books set in this world! Especially the sassy Effie!
October 27, 2023
Sweet romance
This is a sweet romance with a grumpy gargoyle MMC and a quiet human MFC. Cash and Daphne are so opposite of each other, but they mesh well as they come together while healing from their past. There is a whole host of supporting characters who add humor and friendship as the couple grow closer to each other.
Overall this is an easy enjoyable read. It has trigger warnings listed at the beginning which covers everything. Spice is low through most of the book until the end. It's very much a slow burn. Can't wait until the rest of the tattoo shop gets their own stories.
This is a sweet romance with a grumpy gargoyle MMC and a quiet human MFC. Cash and Daphne are so opposite of each other, but they mesh well as they come together while healing from their past. There is a whole host of supporting characters who add humor and friendship as the couple grow closer to each other.
Overall this is an easy enjoyable read. It has trigger warnings listed at the beginning which covers everything. Spice is low through most of the book until the end. It's very much a slow burn. Can't wait until the rest of the tattoo shop gets their own stories.
November 3, 2023
I can't say it again... READ Calliope's books! ALL OF THEM!
This monster romance was a nice take on a grumpy and sweet MMC. Cash is a wingless gargoyle who along with others form a pack; Monstrous Ink. Daphne, having just left an abusive relationship, comes to a small town and takes on the job as a receptionist. There Cash and Daphne find each other and heart eyes bloom. Hehee This was a lovely monster romance with a HEA. Can't wait to see more side characters as they were a big part of this story. It's nice when side characters are heard and not just seen.
Can't wait for the next installment.
This monster romance was a nice take on a grumpy and sweet MMC. Cash is a wingless gargoyle who along with others form a pack; Monstrous Ink. Daphne, having just left an abusive relationship, comes to a small town and takes on the job as a receptionist. There Cash and Daphne find each other and heart eyes bloom. Hehee This was a lovely monster romance with a HEA. Can't wait to see more side characters as they were a big part of this story. It's nice when side characters are heard and not just seen.
Can't wait for the next installment.
December 8, 2023
This has been an Amazing story with twists and turns, suspense, murder, mayhem, friendships and love. The characters are fabulous and they grow page after page.
Their is drama that stems brim spousal abuse.
Confusion, anger,fear,anxiety along with elation, contented mess and a strong sense of rightness are among some of the feels!
250years before Daphne story begins Cashiels story starts.
Gargoyles can survive most things but being attacked whole in their stone form they cannot.
California is a safe haven for not only Monsters but also a great place for Dapne to hide in plain site
until its not.
Their is drama that stems brim spousal abuse.
Confusion, anger,fear,anxiety along with elation, contented mess and a strong sense of rightness are among some of the feels!
250years before Daphne story begins Cashiels story starts.
Gargoyles can survive most things but being attacked whole in their stone form they cannot.
California is a safe haven for not only Monsters but also a great place for Dapne to hide in plain site
until its not.
October 26, 2023
This feels like some of the best storytelling from calliope Stewart. The story is given the time it needs to develop and the relationships to form while also providing the explanations you need for background. This is definitely a lighter story although it does have an underlying DV theme. The character seems mostly unaffected by the DV and has no issues with her mate. While I prefer a more realistic story when DV is involved, and trust is built over more time, this made sense for the more lighthearted monster romance that it is.
October 26, 2023
Dragonfly by Calliope Stewart is the first in the Monstrous Ink Series. We meet Daphne, a young lady running from a mean, horrible ex who abused her. She finds herself in Port Haven after her ride breaks down. She gets a job at Monstrous Ink as their receptionist. Cash is one of the artists that work there. He is a wingless gargoyle. He has his own sad backstory. All of the tattoo artists at Monstrous Ink are of a "monster" variety. Very cool monsters. Loved this sweet, monster story. Looking forward to more in this world.
October 27, 2023
That was a really fun read that was sweet with just the right amount of tension. I enjoyed this first book in a new series, and am actually interested to see what characters’ story we get to read next. All of the side characters in this book were really interesting and likable. I love that I have that to look forward to. The couple in this story were fantastic as well. Very cute.
For the most part there was low angst but not completely love at first sight, it was a nice balance.
I would defiantly recommend.
4⭐️ 2🌶
For the most part there was low angst but not completely love at first sight, it was a nice balance.
I would defiantly recommend.
4⭐️ 2🌶
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