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The Unwilling Adventures of Harlow & Foxx #1
At First Irritation
Welcome, welcome. I can only guess you are here to read about my wonderful adventures? Oh, you don’t know who I am? Well, I’m Foxx Honeywell. An adorable, fierce vampire with a kink for violence. Any who, this marks the beginning of my story. A story of violence, blood, possibly pain, and love. Though, the love part is not so apparent at first.
So how does this story start, you may ask? Well, it starts with a simple—okay, maybe not so simple—law change, and a new job. I, Foxx, join the notorious Hunters Guild. An organization that used to murder my kind indiscriminately. But that was in the past. We've moved on and forward to better things, as paranormals are legal now! Yay, legal…
However, joining this government agency of questionable morals was just the catalyst of it all. Sure, the job is fun; lots of killing, maiming, blood, and even some explosions. But what is an adventure if you are all on your own? Boring, that’s what. No, the true satisfaction and fun comes not just from the job but from my partner on the job, Harlow Blackmore. The man is a sexy, silver fox of a human, who may or may not be a psychopath. He also possibly finds me irritating as hell. As any rational adult would, I choose to ignore those last parts and focus on the sexy! It will surely all work out in the end!
CONTENT WARNING: This is a slow burn M/M paranormal romance series with heat. There will be blood, violence, gore, torture and death. Please do not read if you find any of the previous triggering.
So how does this story start, you may ask? Well, it starts with a simple—okay, maybe not so simple—law change, and a new job. I, Foxx, join the notorious Hunters Guild. An organization that used to murder my kind indiscriminately. But that was in the past. We've moved on and forward to better things, as paranormals are legal now! Yay, legal…
However, joining this government agency of questionable morals was just the catalyst of it all. Sure, the job is fun; lots of killing, maiming, blood, and even some explosions. But what is an adventure if you are all on your own? Boring, that’s what. No, the true satisfaction and fun comes not just from the job but from my partner on the job, Harlow Blackmore. The man is a sexy, silver fox of a human, who may or may not be a psychopath. He also possibly finds me irritating as hell. As any rational adult would, I choose to ignore those last parts and focus on the sexy! It will surely all work out in the end!
CONTENT WARNING: This is a slow burn M/M paranormal romance series with heat. There will be blood, violence, gore, torture and death. Please do not read if you find any of the previous triggering.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2023
About the author
Shelby Rhodes
25 books163 followersShelby Rhodes is a lover and writer of MM Paranormal Romance novels, but any genre is up for grabs. She loves building worlds and creating new realities. In her books you can expect to find a mix of humor and fluff with a dash of blood and violence. And while dramatic and comedic monologues may be her favorite things, that doesn't mean she won't try to rip your heart out.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
March 9, 2024
I confess, I cackled a lot while reading this because some scenes were hilarious. However,I think it’s time to finally accept that rom-coms don’t do it for me anymore. Especially ridiculous ones like this which although entertaining it wasn’t anything to write home about. The guys acted like 2 bratty toddlers-pouting, screaming , stomping their feet- and though the author promised slow burn they fucked like bunnies pretty early. I prefer a real/complete slow burn not only an emotional one. I had fun but nothing else and I’ll probably browse through the second one when I’ll have a bit of time between heavier books.
March 20, 2026
Second read:
It’s only been 2 months since I first read this, which basically explains how much I love these two.
***
This was so good!!
A grumpy middle aged man and a sunshine 100+ year old vampire get paired up to work together. They’re both super blood thirsty and have no issues when their jobs involve murdering the bad guys.
Their relationship is a really fun dynamic, they’re both so different and clash quite a bit. There’s no romantic feelings between them yet, they’re barely friends honestly, but they are both very physically attracted to each other. It’s definitely an emotional slow burn (but not physical slowburn).
The narrator for this was so good, he did such distinct voices for Harlow and Foxx. I’m torn between starting the next ebook or waiting for the audio to come out instead.
It’s only been 2 months since I first read this, which basically explains how much I love these two.
***
This was so good!!
A grumpy middle aged man and a sunshine 100+ year old vampire get paired up to work together. They’re both super blood thirsty and have no issues when their jobs involve murdering the bad guys.
Their relationship is a really fun dynamic, they’re both so different and clash quite a bit. There’s no romantic feelings between them yet, they’re barely friends honestly, but they are both very physically attracted to each other. It’s definitely an emotional slow burn (but not physical slowburn).
The narrator for this was so good, he did such distinct voices for Harlow and Foxx. I’m torn between starting the next ebook or waiting for the audio to come out instead.
February 7, 2024
4.5
God I loved this to absolute bits.
"At First Irritation" was absolutely bonkers, wholly addictive, a delicious, hilarious, joyful ride from start to finish; it made me feel sooooo giddy and happy, and I can't tell you how glad I decided to give this book a chance. I think it's finally kicked my slump to the curb.
I adored Harlow and Foxx so damned much. Both of them are crazy, morally ambiguous disasters with a knack (and a kink) for violence, but they also couldn't be more different from each other: sunshine/grumpy at its finest, with the grump being, quite possibly, an introverted, asocial psycopath who likes his quiet time and being a lone wolf, and the sunshine being the cutest, fluffiest, most wholesome vampire chatterbox with a bratty side you could wish for.
I ADORED their dynamic so so so much; there's real, funny, crazy banter from start to finish, plus a heavy dose of flirting and sexual tension, and I absolutely adored the fact that, even when they start getting closer, inside and outside the bedroom, they never stop irritating each other and contemplating getting rid of the other via not-so-legal ways. Now, that's the slow-burn I LIVE for. I can't wait for them to become completely whipped for each other over the next few books *chef's kiss*
Harlow is hilarious, with his grumpiness and cruel streak, and I really can't wait to discover more him: he's pretty much a mystery still, and I feel like he's going to surprise us (and Foxx too!).
And Foxx!!!!!!! God, I loved him to death. He's that perfect balance of a walking, talking ray of sunshine, with the looks and attitude to match, but he's also got a bit of kink for violence and he's also a very ancient, dangerous predator too. AND he's got hidden trauma and vulnerabilities. Precisely my fav kind of character.
Their dynamic was so fun, the steam was STEAMY, and the plot was addictive and a joy to read about.
I'm so excited to see what the next book will bring; especially considering that somewhat abrupt ending. Thankfully book two is already out.
PS: HOW CUTE ARE THESE COVERS OMG.
God I loved this to absolute bits.
"At First Irritation" was absolutely bonkers, wholly addictive, a delicious, hilarious, joyful ride from start to finish; it made me feel sooooo giddy and happy, and I can't tell you how glad I decided to give this book a chance. I think it's finally kicked my slump to the curb.
I adored Harlow and Foxx so damned much. Both of them are crazy, morally ambiguous disasters with a knack (and a kink) for violence, but they also couldn't be more different from each other: sunshine/grumpy at its finest, with the grump being, quite possibly, an introverted, asocial psycopath who likes his quiet time and being a lone wolf, and the sunshine being the cutest, fluffiest, most wholesome vampire chatterbox with a bratty side you could wish for.
I ADORED their dynamic so so so much; there's real, funny, crazy banter from start to finish, plus a heavy dose of flirting and sexual tension, and I absolutely adored the fact that, even when they start getting closer, inside and outside the bedroom, they never stop irritating each other and contemplating getting rid of the other via not-so-legal ways. Now, that's the slow-burn I LIVE for. I can't wait for them to become completely whipped for each other over the next few books *chef's kiss*
Harlow is hilarious, with his grumpiness and cruel streak, and I really can't wait to discover more him: he's pretty much a mystery still, and I feel like he's going to surprise us (and Foxx too!).
And Foxx!!!!!!! God, I loved him to death. He's that perfect balance of a walking, talking ray of sunshine, with the looks and attitude to match, but he's also got a bit of kink for violence and he's also a very ancient, dangerous predator too. AND he's got hidden trauma and vulnerabilities. Precisely my fav kind of character.
Their dynamic was so fun, the steam was STEAMY, and the plot was addictive and a joy to read about.
I'm so excited to see what the next book will bring; especially considering that somewhat abrupt ending. Thankfully book two is already out.
PS: HOW CUTE ARE THESE COVERS OMG.
February 18, 2024
**Audiobook Review**
I very much enjoyed reading it but absolutely LOVED the audio version. Parts of the story I missed the first time around...totally caught during the audio. The narrator Matt Williams did an excellent job with the narration...each character had their own voice and it was wonderful. I'm really glad I was able to listen to the audio version...I'm hyped to listed to book 2 now
**Ebook Review**
"What in the strawberry effing shortcake is going on?!!!....yeah...this is what started my entertainment...I actually erupted in laughter then giggles from then on.
OMG...this was soooooooooo much fun to read. To tell the truth, I wasn't expecting so much humor...especially from the grumpy, psychotic but sexy Harlow. Should have known better tho just by the title of the series...LOL. So starting off, this was just a normal story...Harlow was just a regular disgruntled "government" worker doing unwanted jobs but secretly loving it...but once he met Foxx...and learned that he was his partner...OMG...their personalities clashed soooo much it was hilarious. Foxx was just the kind of short stack, sassy but cute with dimples person, I love. Him being a vampire (a tad bit psychotic too) was just the icing on the cake. The banter, arguments, sexy times, along with some violence, gore and mayhem, kept this a page turner. I really...really...REALLY hated to see this end. How it ended (it was hilarious) you know its more coming and I can't wait to read more shenanigans from Harlow and Foxx.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I very much enjoyed reading it but absolutely LOVED the audio version. Parts of the story I missed the first time around...totally caught during the audio. The narrator Matt Williams did an excellent job with the narration...each character had their own voice and it was wonderful. I'm really glad I was able to listen to the audio version...I'm hyped to listed to book 2 now
**Ebook Review**
"What in the strawberry effing shortcake is going on?!!!....yeah...this is what started my entertainment...I actually erupted in laughter then giggles from then on.
OMG...this was soooooooooo much fun to read. To tell the truth, I wasn't expecting so much humor...especially from the grumpy, psychotic but sexy Harlow. Should have known better tho just by the title of the series...LOL. So starting off, this was just a normal story...Harlow was just a regular disgruntled "government" worker doing unwanted jobs but secretly loving it...but once he met Foxx...and learned that he was his partner...OMG...their personalities clashed soooo much it was hilarious. Foxx was just the kind of short stack, sassy but cute with dimples person, I love. Him being a vampire (a tad bit psychotic too) was just the icing on the cake. The banter, arguments, sexy times, along with some violence, gore and mayhem, kept this a page turner. I really...really...REALLY hated to see this end. How it ended (it was hilarious) you know its more coming and I can't wait to read more shenanigans from Harlow and Foxx.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 16, 2025
I am... honestly not sure how to even rate this. It was fine? But I didn't feel any connection to Harlow and Foxx at all, I didn't feel any spark between them, the plot was... okay, the world-building very thin. There wasn't even any real romance, even by the end, just them doing it like bunnies.
This honestly read like a debut. And not a good one. For the most part it just left me very indifferent, which is why I have no clue how to rate this.
I probably won't continue the series.
This honestly read like a debut. And not a good one. For the most part it just left me very indifferent, which is why I have no clue how to rate this.
I probably won't continue the series.
Did Not Finish
March 15, 2024sorry but this audio is unlistenable!
no idea if I'll try the ebook someday.
no idea if I'll try the ebook someday.
April 10, 2024
1.75 stars?? I am interested in the vampire history, and in the history of some of the characters. And I do like the idea of this book... however, I found Fox too annoying and cringey😑🙄...so, idk if I will continue with this series or not. Also, couldn't stand their handler (Charity??) 😬😤🤬
Did Not Finish
November 18, 2025DNF 44%
So I started this book in September for my early spooky month read and never really got back into it. I tried picking up a few times, and I was just not feeling it. I dont know if its the audiobook that is so monotoned that it puts me sleep or the fact I cant really connect with the characters. Either way, its not for me but I can see why it would be for some other people. Oh well.
March 9, 2024
Hilarious, hot and bloody 🥰
July 9, 2026
Of course, the cute cover drew me in. Don't let this cover fool you though. This is not some cutesy lil romance, this story is definitely more of a dark rom-com. It was quite dark actually. What else could it be, when both main characters are freaking psychopaths. They are only calling Harlow one but no, nuh-uh they are both psychotic. But that makes them fit so perfectly together. I can't imagine them with any other partner (romantically and/or at work) than each other. They mash so wonderfully and it makes for some funny and honestly disturbing scenes.
Like i said, both are crazy. Foxx's crazy is packaged in the cutest outfits with the sweetest face and Harlow's crazy is packaged in the typical bad boy get up.
I don't like either of them but I really enjoy reading about these two.
At the end of the book we only have lust between them, maybe the beginnings of a friendship but mostly lust.
Speaking of lust, ugh Harlow is such a straight guy. I hope that changes. Harlow has only been with women before and the only sex he has with Foxx is basically anal. I hope we get some mouth on penis action in the next books. I don't want to read an MM romance where one of them screams basically hetero but hole is a hole, you know.
I really like the set up in this book. The vampire history is fascinating. Also the social commentary and how speciesist the society is, is of course infuriating but also very interesting.
Onto the next book in this series.
Like i said, both are crazy. Foxx's crazy is packaged in the cutest outfits with the sweetest face and Harlow's crazy is packaged in the typical bad boy get up.
I don't like either of them but I really enjoy reading about these two.
At the end of the book we only have lust between them, maybe the beginnings of a friendship but mostly lust.
Speaking of lust, ugh Harlow is such a straight guy. I hope that changes. Harlow has only been with women before and the only sex he has with Foxx is basically anal. I hope we get some mouth on penis action in the next books. I don't want to read an MM romance where one of them screams basically hetero but hole is a hole, you know.
I really like the set up in this book. The vampire history is fascinating. Also the social commentary and how speciesist the society is, is of course infuriating but also very interesting.
Onto the next book in this series.
October 25, 2023
This was gooood. I loved Foxx. He was absolutely hilarious and Harlow was cute too thought more of a stern- daddy.
I will say that it ended so abruptly ! I wanted to more like do they ever confess their undying love for each other ??? I want more ! Although this book was good, there wasn’t a lot of meat on the bones? We didn’t get a whole lot of character building because it mostly focused on the violence and sex but I still enjoyed it
I’m hoping the next book is Alastair’s because he seems very interesting.
Edit: I just realised that I’m stupid and the series is going to be about them so I take back what I said about them confessing their love ! I want a whole pot of angst before that happens 🤗
I will say that it ended so abruptly ! I wanted to more like do they ever confess their undying love for each other ??? I want more ! Although this book was good, there wasn’t a lot of meat on the bones? We didn’t get a whole lot of character building because it mostly focused on the violence and sex but I still enjoyed it
I’m hoping the next book is Alastair’s because he seems very interesting.
Edit: I just realised that I’m stupid and the series is going to be about them so I take back what I said about them confessing their love ! I want a whole pot of angst before that happens 🤗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2026
This was quirky as all hell but unbelievably fun. I could not put this down. I want more of these characters immediately so I need to head straight into book two.
September 6, 2024
Premise: great.
Execution: really disappointing shitty Vampire the Masquerade fanfiction. Not a romance. A SM-y pair of immature men who hate each other and just want to fuck. The entire “romance” boils down to “he hot” and “we both get off on violence and torture and fuck about it.”
I had hopes at the start that this was going to be a short king fem-ish twink sunshine vampire who bucked traditional gender norms by wearing cute colourful clothing and sewing as a hobby but he was the most immature childish character I think I’ve read. This overall felt super immature. Awful.
I was interested in the world building but we got very little of it and I’m definitely not reading further books for more.
Wasn’t even the funny kind of awful that made it worth finishing, I just didn’t want another dnf after getting through like 60% of it so I ramped it up to 2x to make it through. I regret my life choices.
Execution: really disappointing shitty Vampire the Masquerade fanfiction. Not a romance. A SM-y pair of immature men who hate each other and just want to fuck. The entire “romance” boils down to “he hot” and “we both get off on violence and torture and fuck about it.”
I had hopes at the start that this was going to be a short king fem-ish twink sunshine vampire who bucked traditional gender norms by wearing cute colourful clothing and sewing as a hobby but he was the most immature childish character I think I’ve read. This overall felt super immature. Awful.
I was interested in the world building but we got very little of it and I’m definitely not reading further books for more.
Wasn’t even the funny kind of awful that made it worth finishing, I just didn’t want another dnf after getting through like 60% of it so I ramped it up to 2x to make it through. I regret my life choices.
December 4, 2025
3⭐
This one was ok....
I’ll be honest: At First Irritation was genuinely fun in places, and I can absolutely see the potential this paranormal world is reaching for. The setup, with an antisocial, grumpy hunter forced to work with a quirky vampire in a society where vampires are a stigmatised minority, had me ready to fall headfirst into the dynamic.
But for a first book, the foundation just wasn’t strong enough for me. The world building feels more hinted at than established, especially considering the tensions and the mistreatment of vampires, which could have carried so much emotional weight. The hunt at the centre of the story never fully solidified either, leaving me waiting for a more focused plot thread to latch onto.
And then there’s Foxx. I love a quirky character, but here the quirkiness tipped into over the top for me, to the point where it overshadowed moments that could have deepened the partnership or the larger thematic stakes. Harlow has a lot of promise as the grumpy counterpart, but without a firmer plot or richer world around them, that dynamic never reached the depth I hoped for.
Overall, it was fun—light, humorous, and easy to breeze through—but it didn’t feel like the strongest starting point for a series with this kind of premise. I’m curious about what comes next because the ingredients are there. I probably won't return to this series unless book two makes up for the lacking plot...
This one was ok....
I’ll be honest: At First Irritation was genuinely fun in places, and I can absolutely see the potential this paranormal world is reaching for. The setup, with an antisocial, grumpy hunter forced to work with a quirky vampire in a society where vampires are a stigmatised minority, had me ready to fall headfirst into the dynamic.
But for a first book, the foundation just wasn’t strong enough for me. The world building feels more hinted at than established, especially considering the tensions and the mistreatment of vampires, which could have carried so much emotional weight. The hunt at the centre of the story never fully solidified either, leaving me waiting for a more focused plot thread to latch onto.
And then there’s Foxx. I love a quirky character, but here the quirkiness tipped into over the top for me, to the point where it overshadowed moments that could have deepened the partnership or the larger thematic stakes. Harlow has a lot of promise as the grumpy counterpart, but without a firmer plot or richer world around them, that dynamic never reached the depth I hoped for.
Overall, it was fun—light, humorous, and easy to breeze through—but it didn’t feel like the strongest starting point for a series with this kind of premise. I’m curious about what comes next because the ingredients are there. I probably won't return to this series unless book two makes up for the lacking plot...
July 12, 2023
This is such an awesome start to a series
I’m kind of giddy right now as I’ve literally just finished the book and could not hold in my need to proclaim its awesomeness. Harlow and Foxx are the most perfect pair of ridiculous but oddly sweet creatures out there. Harlow somehow manages to be a massive moody grump whilst also being kind of hilariously cute. I mean, I know Foxx in all his cuteness make an adorable person when angry (hehe angy) but Harlow does too. For all his scowls I honestly kind of just wanted to pat him on the shoulder and tell him he’s a cutie (which I accept May or may not lead to death lol). He’s all violence and anger on the outside but honestly is quite sweet in his own special way. Foxx is the perfect mix of violence, sweetness and snark. He seems like a genuinely nice guy to be friends with. Sure a bit hyper but honestly sweet and kind and cuddly. What I love is that mixed in with all that is a vicious, bloodthirsty man who takes genuine pleasure in the violence he participates in. And why not give the people he focuses that violence against are bad people? The way he meshes with Harlow is lovely. No judgment, no condemnation; he understands the desire for violence and allows Harlow to be who he is (well, let’s face it, most of the time he’s actively encouraging it!). Add to that the fact that they are on fire together and their ridiculous snarking when they irritate each other and they’re the cutest couple (though I’m sure Harlow would claim they aren’t a couple - they totally are). The world building is also really interesting; it’s a fascinating the layers that have been created around the coming out of the paranormal. Just like for anyone who is different, there are the surface level issues but thing also things that go so much deeper and have such long-term effects on your every day life. The cases Harlow and Foxx deal with are interesting and provide a good bit of action and suspense but also allow even more understanding of the world Foxx and Harlow live in. I will say, I also have a feeling there may be a few surprises in respect of certain people and their origins but I’m going to leave it at that. Needless to say, I am absolutist buzzing in anticipation for the next book. I’m going to be all good and wait but I am seriously looking forward to it (and seeing what Harlow does to Foxx about a certain incident with a pink sun suit hehe)!
I’m kind of giddy right now as I’ve literally just finished the book and could not hold in my need to proclaim its awesomeness. Harlow and Foxx are the most perfect pair of ridiculous but oddly sweet creatures out there. Harlow somehow manages to be a massive moody grump whilst also being kind of hilariously cute. I mean, I know Foxx in all his cuteness make an adorable person when angry (hehe angy) but Harlow does too. For all his scowls I honestly kind of just wanted to pat him on the shoulder and tell him he’s a cutie (which I accept May or may not lead to death lol). He’s all violence and anger on the outside but honestly is quite sweet in his own special way. Foxx is the perfect mix of violence, sweetness and snark. He seems like a genuinely nice guy to be friends with. Sure a bit hyper but honestly sweet and kind and cuddly. What I love is that mixed in with all that is a vicious, bloodthirsty man who takes genuine pleasure in the violence he participates in. And why not give the people he focuses that violence against are bad people? The way he meshes with Harlow is lovely. No judgment, no condemnation; he understands the desire for violence and allows Harlow to be who he is (well, let’s face it, most of the time he’s actively encouraging it!). Add to that the fact that they are on fire together and their ridiculous snarking when they irritate each other and they’re the cutest couple (though I’m sure Harlow would claim they aren’t a couple - they totally are). The world building is also really interesting; it’s a fascinating the layers that have been created around the coming out of the paranormal. Just like for anyone who is different, there are the surface level issues but thing also things that go so much deeper and have such long-term effects on your every day life. The cases Harlow and Foxx deal with are interesting and provide a good bit of action and suspense but also allow even more understanding of the world Foxx and Harlow live in. I will say, I also have a feeling there may be a few surprises in respect of certain people and their origins but I’m going to leave it at that. Needless to say, I am absolutist buzzing in anticipation for the next book. I’m going to be all good and wait but I am seriously looking forward to it (and seeing what Harlow does to Foxx about a certain incident with a pink sun suit hehe)!
April 12, 2026
This is entertaining and got some fresh ideas considering vampire lore 🦇 but I felt betrayed by the slow-burn label. There is some tension and build up but after they do the deed (oh so often *yawn*) everything seems to fall into place.. No internal debate, no problems with their work/boss/bestie
It felt too easy.
Not invested in the romance and the action part of the story left me indifferent as well- won't continue 🩷🤷🏻♀️
It felt too easy.
Not invested in the romance and the action part of the story left me indifferent as well- won't continue 🩷🤷🏻♀️
January 1, 2026
3.5/5. alright so this was batshit fun but also pissed me off so bad. the chemistry between these two did not survive their extremely toxic fighting and strange infantilizing of foxx (though i respect the kawaii grind). also the ending was so abrupt that i was convinced it was a joke ending and the next page would continue the story... so...
August 3, 2023
I love vampires and I love twinks, so I really loved Foxx. Sassy with a strange dress sense. He decides to apply to work for the Hunters Guild and is paired with Harlow who is the exact opposite of Foxx.
The book does end in a strange way but I am glad to see book 2 won't be long before its here.
The book does end in a strange way but I am glad to see book 2 won't be long before its here.
Read
February 23, 2025DNF 38%
It hasn’t hooked me yet, I’m bored, and I’ve been trying to read this for four days. I give up.
It hasn’t hooked me yet, I’m bored, and I’ve been trying to read this for four days. I give up.
March 13, 2025
Writing needed a bit of work, but I like the characters, and I'm hooked on the plot. Though I can see something specific coming already in the form of the taller mc.
August 10, 2023
Wow. What a ride. And I loved every second of it!
So firstly. This is a slow burn, but mainly in terms of the romance because there is not much of an actual romance between the MCs in this book...yet! They do care for each other, but now they mostly lust after each other and want to get to know each other. Speaking of lust, there are quite a bit of detailed smut scenes (after 50 % of the book or so) and... oh boy. They were wonderful. There are some kinks and dirty talk that I really loved. Wow. Their banter and chemistry were also top tier.
As for our MCs: What I love the most is that even though they get to know each other, they are not instantly changing themselves to please each other. Harlow is crazy and brutal, and he is not too soft with Foxx. I mean they banged a lot of times and they still argue like they want to murder one another. And that was actually lovely. Harlow is resilient and quiet, but he also opens up to Foxx (but remains morally gray and a bit psychotic).
As for Foxx, I loved him. He is funny but not too funny. I was afraid the book would be too much on the humour side, but it was really well balanced with the gore and violence (and horniness). His fashion sense was endearing and unapologetic. And I hope there will be some reason behind his fashion choices. It would be cool. There is also a hint at hurt/comfort for Foxx but it was definitely at the background (mainly in terms of romance, which I hope will gradually develop as the series progresses). And even though he is bubbly most of the time, he is not a push over.
At one point they argued and it really made me emotional.
The world building was interesting. I liked the mythology behind the vampires. Though I'd love more interactions with other paranormals (besides werewolves) because in the later part we suddenly had mentionings of magic and witches and it felt like there is not that much magic in the world in general. So most of the story focuses on vampies and the way they are (mis)treated by humans. And I enjoyed these moments. And the way Harlow got protective (maybe without realizing it) over Foxx. Cute.
I also enjoyed the structure of the story. Yes, it is character driven with multiple hunts that happen in the book (and even the action bits were cool!). And I loved the switch between the POVs. They paced the humor and overall mood of the book as both men have really distinc world views. And the POVs change even within one chapter (though the 2 POVs from Tony and Alastair were a bit random, ngl) which really made the humor well paced.
Cannot wait for the next book and based on the author's website, there are 4 books in total. Yay! I can't wait to see the men actually fall in love with each other.
So firstly. This is a slow burn, but mainly in terms of the romance because there is not much of an actual romance between the MCs in this book...yet! They do care for each other, but now they mostly lust after each other and want to get to know each other. Speaking of lust, there are quite a bit of detailed smut scenes (after 50 % of the book or so) and... oh boy. They were wonderful. There are some kinks and dirty talk that I really loved. Wow. Their banter and chemistry were also top tier.
Foxx glared at Harlow. The man was sitting there, legs spread, looking hot—the audacity.
As for our MCs: What I love the most is that even though they get to know each other, they are not instantly changing themselves to please each other. Harlow is crazy and brutal, and he is not too soft with Foxx. I mean they banged a lot of times and they still argue like they want to murder one another. And that was actually lovely. Harlow is resilient and quiet, but he also opens up to Foxx (but remains morally gray and a bit psychotic).
As for Foxx, I loved him. He is funny but not too funny. I was afraid the book would be too much on the humour side, but it was really well balanced with the gore and violence (and horniness). His fashion sense was endearing and unapologetic. And I hope there will be some reason behind his fashion choices. It would be cool. There is also a hint at hurt/comfort for Foxx but it was definitely at the background (mainly in terms of romance, which I hope will gradually develop as the series progresses). And even though he is bubbly most of the time, he is not a push over.
At one point they argued and it really made me emotional.
Foxx stared, dumbstruck. Was this fucker serious? “You can’t be serious. You can’t. Like, I get that those morons behind you buy this nonsense. But come on now, do I look like an idiot to you?” Then it struck him. “Oh, you’re a moron too, aren't you? Out here believing your own bullshit.”
The world building was interesting. I liked the mythology behind the vampires. Though I'd love more interactions with other paranormals (besides werewolves) because in the later part we suddenly had mentionings of magic and witches and it felt like there is not that much magic in the world in general. So most of the story focuses on vampies and the way they are (mis)treated by humans. And I enjoyed these moments. And the way Harlow got protective (maybe without realizing it) over Foxx. Cute.
I also enjoyed the structure of the story. Yes, it is character driven with multiple hunts that happen in the book (and even the action bits were cool!). And I loved the switch between the POVs. They paced the humor and overall mood of the book as both men have really distinc world views. And the POVs change even within one chapter (though the 2 POVs from Tony and Alastair were a bit random, ngl) which really made the humor well paced.
Cannot wait for the next book and based on the author's website, there are 4 books in total. Yay! I can't wait to see the men actually fall in love with each other.
July 26, 2023
Shelby is a new-to-me author, I've had my eye on their books for quite some time but I haven't been able to purchase them yet. So when the opportunity came around to read this book, I signed up right away. I'm really glad I did! I was a little apprehensive at first cause the way the description was written it didn't really give too much away. So, I wasn't really sure what to expect. But I actually think that benefitted the story.
Foxx is a vampire who is much older than people realize, after a new law gets passed he starts working as a hunter, the only catch is he has to have a partner.. and that partner turns out to be the grumpiest 'old man' alive.
Harlow is a human who's been a hunter for decades, before paranormals were announced to the public, and he's still a hunter now even after that declaration. Except now, due to a new law, he has to work with a partner. A highly talkative, too colorful, peppy, exuberant vampire, who Harlow is convinced is part cat.
I really, really enjoyed this story. Shelby's writing style is so unique and so different from anything else I've read before. Yeah, there was romance and tension, but there was also a fantastic build up of the plot, fantastic detail and well fleshed out scenes of all the cases these two had to not only investigate but to take care of, and there was a humorous undertone to the whole story. Which was very amusing! Foxx trying to get Harlow to stop being a grump was adorable, and when Harlow made Foxx really mad? Oh boy, Harlow better watch out! I usually have a difficult time with HFN's just because sometimes they aren't written that well, or they are really well written and I'm just impatient while waiting for the next book to release. This book falls into the ladder of those to options, I really enjoyed this book and I'm really looking forward to what Harlow and Foxx get up to next!
Foxx is a vampire who is much older than people realize, after a new law gets passed he starts working as a hunter, the only catch is he has to have a partner.. and that partner turns out to be the grumpiest 'old man' alive.
Harlow is a human who's been a hunter for decades, before paranormals were announced to the public, and he's still a hunter now even after that declaration. Except now, due to a new law, he has to work with a partner. A highly talkative, too colorful, peppy, exuberant vampire, who Harlow is convinced is part cat.
I really, really enjoyed this story. Shelby's writing style is so unique and so different from anything else I've read before. Yeah, there was romance and tension, but there was also a fantastic build up of the plot, fantastic detail and well fleshed out scenes of all the cases these two had to not only investigate but to take care of, and there was a humorous undertone to the whole story. Which was very amusing! Foxx trying to get Harlow to stop being a grump was adorable, and when Harlow made Foxx really mad? Oh boy, Harlow better watch out! I usually have a difficult time with HFN's just because sometimes they aren't written that well, or they are really well written and I'm just impatient while waiting for the next book to release. This book falls into the ladder of those to options, I really enjoyed this book and I'm really looking forward to what Harlow and Foxx get up to next!
May 12, 2025
A promising beginning to the tales of Foxx and Harlow. One small fluffy vampire, as colorful as a mantis shrimp and one big strong human in all black, both Hunters and pretty cool with rivers of blood. In a world where paranormals are part of society, they take down both humans and paranormals who run around doing bad things.
My favorite part so far is the chapter where Foxx tells Harlow about the origins of vampires - the six bloodlines, each with their own unique abilities. Such a great take on vampire lore.
Also, Harlow's thoughts here are depressingly relevant right now:
My favorite part so far is the chapter where Foxx tells Harlow about the origins of vampires - the six bloodlines, each with their own unique abilities. Such a great take on vampire lore.
Also, Harlow's thoughts here are depressingly relevant right now:
The various sects of Christianity used the damage they could cause with crosses, holy water, and so on, as proof that vampires were creations of the devil. Well, they also used it to try to say that their religions were the only real ones, as they saw it as the ultimate proof. Since vampires and the other paranormals had been revealed to the world, there had been an uptick of those flocking to religion. There had also been an uptick of good old Christians, Catholics, or whatever, committing some serious crimes. Harlow had probably arrested and tracked down more so-called goodie-goodie churchgoers than anyone else human-wise. Their shock at being treated like criminals always made him laugh.
July 21, 2023
Harlow & Foxx have been paired to work together, and oh boy, can they not be any more opposite, and the chaos is beautiful. For all their differences, what they can agree ish on is their attraction to one another and their thirst to unalive things that annoy them.
If you have read Shelbys Undead Detective Agency series, you will get her humor, and this series is bound to bring more blood lust while keeping that unique sense if humor is present. Great read cannot wait to see what these two are up to next.
If you have read Shelbys Undead Detective Agency series, you will get her humor, and this series is bound to bring more blood lust while keeping that unique sense if humor is present. Great read cannot wait to see what these two are up to next.
October 5, 2023
I liked the banter between the two, but there was no romance. I just wanted more with them. I skimmed the last 10% just to get to the end. I don’t have any interest in continuing this series.
This is the second series from this author that I won’t finish. I think they’re just not for me.
This is the second series from this author that I won’t finish. I think they’re just not for me.
January 28, 2024
I enjoyed this book, but the author needs a better editor. The term "the man" was used 293 times in this book, usually to describe Harlow, and it was so extremely irritating that I struggled to finish the book. Sometimes it was used more than 5 times in one page..
November 12, 2024
This was adorable. Grumpy/Sunshine at its finest, and humor that I actually found humorous.
No time for a more in-depth review—I have to go start Book 2 immediately.
No time for a more in-depth review—I have to go start Book 2 immediately.
January 13, 2026
3.5 stars
This was very lighthearted despite the protagonists being sociopaths directed to kill. I think that’s the only way I could have handled it. It’s very violent and moderately gory. So it had to be unrealistic and unemotional for me.
The book was often really humorous. Fox dressed like a child which brought a lot of hilarity. A scene with his sunsuit was laugh-out-loud funny. I loved that the vampire is the small bubbly one and the human is the grumpy big guy.
There were several cases they had and no overarching plot other than them learning to tolerate each other to the point they have sex. This isn’t really romance. There are no declarations of love. It’s just a lot of sex, too much. Even the final scene battle wasn’t what I’d hoped.
There was a huge info dump in the middle that was terrible even though the world-building was interesting. It was during a drive they took and Fox told Harlow all the stuff about vampires he didn’t know. But Fox told him stuff that he would have to use as a hunter so he would know already. Harlow also said some basic vampire law stuff that Fox would of course already known. Most of it was unnecessary for this story. Maybe it will be relevant in the later books but it didn’t need to be said here.
It was really weird that they claimed people were more tolerant of witches throughout history. How many women (and some men) were killed for being witches? Speaking of women, there was only one in the story, their handler. Their boss and all the bad guys and friends were men. There didn’t appear to be any people of color either.
Still, I think it was good and I'll like the series, it was just not a really strong beginning. I’m curious about the next one. I have to pay for it as the library doesn’t have it so we’ll see how soon.
The narrator, Matt Williams, was for the most part very good. He had different voices for the various characters with the MCs being very distinct on top of their intonation. Fox’s accent was also done really well. He portrayed emotion well, too. There were a couple of problems I had. One was that Harlow shouted a lot but it came across as almost as quiet as his regular voice. That voice was also supposed to be weary of the world and grumpy but it sounded almost inflectionless, no affect. The other problem was that when he was in one person’s POV, he used the same voice for the narration and for that person’s dialog. It was almost impossible to know what was in his head and what was spoken aloud.
This was very lighthearted despite the protagonists being sociopaths directed to kill. I think that’s the only way I could have handled it. It’s very violent and moderately gory. So it had to be unrealistic and unemotional for me.
The book was often really humorous. Fox dressed like a child which brought a lot of hilarity. A scene with his sunsuit was laugh-out-loud funny. I loved that the vampire is the small bubbly one and the human is the grumpy big guy.
There were several cases they had and no overarching plot other than them learning to tolerate each other to the point they have sex. This isn’t really romance. There are no declarations of love. It’s just a lot of sex, too much. Even the final scene battle wasn’t what I’d hoped.
There was a huge info dump in the middle that was terrible even though the world-building was interesting. It was during a drive they took and Fox told Harlow all the stuff about vampires he didn’t know. But Fox told him stuff that he would have to use as a hunter so he would know already. Harlow also said some basic vampire law stuff that Fox would of course already known. Most of it was unnecessary for this story. Maybe it will be relevant in the later books but it didn’t need to be said here.
It was really weird that they claimed people were more tolerant of witches throughout history. How many women (and some men) were killed for being witches? Speaking of women, there was only one in the story, their handler. Their boss and all the bad guys and friends were men. There didn’t appear to be any people of color either.
Still, I think it was good and I'll like the series, it was just not a really strong beginning. I’m curious about the next one. I have to pay for it as the library doesn’t have it so we’ll see how soon.
The narrator, Matt Williams, was for the most part very good. He had different voices for the various characters with the MCs being very distinct on top of their intonation. Fox’s accent was also done really well. He portrayed emotion well, too. There were a couple of problems I had. One was that Harlow shouted a lot but it came across as almost as quiet as his regular voice. That voice was also supposed to be weary of the world and grumpy but it sounded almost inflectionless, no affect. The other problem was that when he was in one person’s POV, he used the same voice for the narration and for that person’s dialog. It was almost impossible to know what was in his head and what was spoken aloud.
April 21, 2024
Very interesting start!
I believe this is the first book I've read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. The writing style and pacing is great. As it's a series with the same couple, I expected there to be a slower relationship progression, but I'm happy that it wasn't glacial. There isn't really anything past lust at this point, but towards the very end, you get a sense of how much Foxx is starting to care for Harlow. Harlow is still his grumpy self, but that's just going to make it even sweeter when he finally falls and starts having those big feelings.
I was actually surprised at the level of violence and dark humor, but not in a bad way. It's clear that both men are morally gray and enjoy the violence. I'm guessing there's a reason for that revealed later on, at least in Foxx's case. I also enjoyed the world building. I like that it's a bit different from the average vamp romance. It's not all about the biting and, while I love a good fated-mates trope, that's not present in this world (at least not yet). There's also some mystery surrounding Harlow's need for water...looking forward to unravelling that!
There's a nice amount of heat in this book. But I am hoping that more emotions get involved in book two. I want some romance in my romance books, lol.
I believe this is the first book I've read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. The writing style and pacing is great. As it's a series with the same couple, I expected there to be a slower relationship progression, but I'm happy that it wasn't glacial. There isn't really anything past lust at this point, but towards the very end, you get a sense of how much Foxx is starting to care for Harlow. Harlow is still his grumpy self, but that's just going to make it even sweeter when he finally falls and starts having those big feelings.
I was actually surprised at the level of violence and dark humor, but not in a bad way. It's clear that both men are morally gray and enjoy the violence. I'm guessing there's a reason for that revealed later on, at least in Foxx's case. I also enjoyed the world building. I like that it's a bit different from the average vamp romance. It's not all about the biting and, while I love a good fated-mates trope, that's not present in this world (at least not yet). There's also some mystery surrounding Harlow's need for water...looking forward to unravelling that!
There's a nice amount of heat in this book. But I am hoping that more emotions get involved in book two. I want some romance in my romance books, lol.
February 12, 2024
Zany gruesome fun
Foxx is an adorable pint sized bloodthirsty monster. Harlow is an antisocial grumpy bear of a human who enjoys beating things bloody. They're now partners in hunting down monsters, both human and paranormal. The dialogue was fun, the hunts a little mediocre, but the one liners kept it going. And that ending lmao. Brilliant. This is not really romantic, as in there's few emotions. There's steam, and scenes, but nothing really tender about it. But it's laying the groundwork for that something more, so the sequel should be very entertaining. Especially if it picks up where this one left off.
The world building was decently done, slid in without info dumps. The characters were well fleshed out and entertaining. Not a lot of growth, but still entertaining. The plot arc is nebulous yet, in that they're hunting monsters but no real end goal. There were a few grammatical oppsies but nothing unforgivable, either. It just lacked that warmth and bonding that you look for in romances. Again, another erotica titled as romance, hence the fewer stars.
Foxx is an adorable pint sized bloodthirsty monster. Harlow is an antisocial grumpy bear of a human who enjoys beating things bloody. They're now partners in hunting down monsters, both human and paranormal. The dialogue was fun, the hunts a little mediocre, but the one liners kept it going. And that ending lmao. Brilliant. This is not really romantic, as in there's few emotions. There's steam, and scenes, but nothing really tender about it. But it's laying the groundwork for that something more, so the sequel should be very entertaining. Especially if it picks up where this one left off.
The world building was decently done, slid in without info dumps. The characters were well fleshed out and entertaining. Not a lot of growth, but still entertaining. The plot arc is nebulous yet, in that they're hunting monsters but no real end goal. There were a few grammatical oppsies but nothing unforgivable, either. It just lacked that warmth and bonding that you look for in romances. Again, another erotica titled as romance, hence the fewer stars.
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