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Monster in My Bed #5
Bounty and Bone
My disciplinary file at ESCU is almost as thick as my personnel file, which is saying something since I’ve been working for them for more than twenty years. I do the jobs no one else wants, go places no one is supposed to go to deal with monsters that don’t exist. After a while, you get a feel for how a mission’s going to go, and I have a feeling this next one is going to be fifty shades of FUBAR.
And not just because my new partner, Ziggy, is last night’s one-night stand.
Whom I may have accidentally married…
He’s a furry blue monster with big dreams and an even bigger heart. We’re supposed to be locating an escaped monster and the AWOL soldier who broke him out. I can’t afford to complicate our working relationship with feelings , especially given how my last relationship ended.
For better or worse we’re stuck together until I can figure out how to undo this, which is just as well considering everything I know about ESCU might be a lie.
Bounty and Bone is the fifth book in the Monsters in My Bed series, an MM monster romance series which should be read in order.
And not just because my new partner, Ziggy, is last night’s one-night stand.
Whom I may have accidentally married…
He’s a furry blue monster with big dreams and an even bigger heart. We’re supposed to be locating an escaped monster and the AWOL soldier who broke him out. I can’t afford to complicate our working relationship with feelings , especially given how my last relationship ended.
For better or worse we’re stuck together until I can figure out how to undo this, which is just as well considering everything I know about ESCU might be a lie.
Bounty and Bone is the fifth book in the Monsters in My Bed series, an MM monster romance series which should be read in order.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 18, 2023
I tried really, really hard to get through this book but it was such a slog. I hated the characters. I found them hard to understand or identify with in ways unrelated to the ever present gender identity issues. They just didn’t “jive”. The plot was convoluted and jumped around with lots of plot holes and convenient coincidences. It really felt like the author was done with the series and just reaching for anything to put an end to it.
February 16, 2026
How many are there? It's just that I guess getting rid of the source, wasn't enough.
October 17, 2023
It's so romantic when, at the VERY end of the book, our main hero thinks how much he wants to die already to be with his lovers when his current lover is STANDING RIGHT NEXT TO HIM. Poor Ziggy.
July 24, 2023
ARC review 🥰
First I have to say: I *love* the Eveland doesn’t shy away from representation. I’ve only read one other author that’s been willing to write a transmasc character without a magical transformation, multiple completed reconstruction surgeries, or intense body hatred. And while those stories absolutely 100% have their place too, it’s really nice to see the way Honor is depicted; I especially loved how everyone but the bad guy completely accepted him without question, hell without even batting an eye! I also really like that despite the villain constantly deadnaming them, Eveland does not actually *use* their deadname. I can’t explain it but that just feels more right to me. Like it’s not added for shock value, the villain is just a really bad dude and he does this bad thing but we don’t need to give that bad thing more airtime than necessary.
Okay, moving on to the rest of the story, and I’m sorry but I can’t do this one without some spoilers so if you’re anti-spoiler you can tap out now no hard feelings.
This is by far the most emotional book of the series, imo. There are a lot more losses in Honor’s life and the stakes are even higher than in past books. The entire thing was a delight to read but a good bit of it tugs at your heartstrings and makes you ache for Ziggy & Honor. The start of their relationship is rockier too, the accidental breaking of the bones sets up kind of a forced proximity set up that Honor is 100% against initially. Ziggy is smitten and tbh Honor doesn’t deserve it; he’s a straight up arse to Ziggy (and everyone, it’s not targeted) and he steps on Ziggy’s feelings more than once. Thankfully Honor feels bad about it and does apologize, I think he would’ve been intolerable if he didn’t lol. Once things start to heat up, both in the “Ziggy is going through a heat” and chemistry is building sense of the phrase, Honor realizes it’s going to be a lot harder than he thought to not catch feels.
Ziggy is adorable & super sweet — “Sweet, submissive, and breedable” as Honor says on more than one occasion — but he also has a protective, stubborn side that makes him interesting. Honor is expecting a doormat and Ziggy has definitely been treated as one before, but once Honor realizes Ziggy has been mistreated in the past he makes it his mission to build Ziggy up & give him the tools to ask for (and take) the things he wants. Ziggy also has a more monstrous surprise that I freakin loved, but I won’t elaborate and ruin it here.
The spicy scenes are excellent, although I do feel like this couple got less time to romp between the plot than the other couples or maybe it just seemed that way because of the near non-stop action and the fact that they’re not alone nearly as much as the other couples. Honor is a natural leader and protector, regardless of his gruff exterior, and he does a lot of collecting lost souls, similar to Hopper lol.
The plot? Truly a wild ride, emotional turbulence mentioned before aside. I keep thinking I know what’s going to happen and then L. Eveland goes in a different direction & it’s kinda nice to keep being surprised. I’m eager to see how they wrap the series up because there are still quite a few loose ends despite a lot of the ones from prior books being tied up nicely in this one.
As always please check the TWs because there are a few doozies, but Eveland does an incredible job with content notes.
First I have to say: I *love* the Eveland doesn’t shy away from representation. I’ve only read one other author that’s been willing to write a transmasc character without a magical transformation, multiple completed reconstruction surgeries, or intense body hatred. And while those stories absolutely 100% have their place too, it’s really nice to see the way Honor is depicted; I especially loved how everyone but the bad guy completely accepted him without question, hell without even batting an eye! I also really like that despite the villain constantly deadnaming them, Eveland does not actually *use* their deadname. I can’t explain it but that just feels more right to me. Like it’s not added for shock value, the villain is just a really bad dude and he does this bad thing but we don’t need to give that bad thing more airtime than necessary.
Okay, moving on to the rest of the story, and I’m sorry but I can’t do this one without some spoilers so if you’re anti-spoiler you can tap out now no hard feelings.
This is by far the most emotional book of the series, imo. There are a lot more losses in Honor’s life and the stakes are even higher than in past books. The entire thing was a delight to read but a good bit of it tugs at your heartstrings and makes you ache for Ziggy & Honor. The start of their relationship is rockier too, the accidental breaking of the bones sets up kind of a forced proximity set up that Honor is 100% against initially. Ziggy is smitten and tbh Honor doesn’t deserve it; he’s a straight up arse to Ziggy (and everyone, it’s not targeted) and he steps on Ziggy’s feelings more than once. Thankfully Honor feels bad about it and does apologize, I think he would’ve been intolerable if he didn’t lol. Once things start to heat up, both in the “Ziggy is going through a heat” and chemistry is building sense of the phrase, Honor realizes it’s going to be a lot harder than he thought to not catch feels.
Ziggy is adorable & super sweet — “Sweet, submissive, and breedable” as Honor says on more than one occasion — but he also has a protective, stubborn side that makes him interesting. Honor is expecting a doormat and Ziggy has definitely been treated as one before, but once Honor realizes Ziggy has been mistreated in the past he makes it his mission to build Ziggy up & give him the tools to ask for (and take) the things he wants. Ziggy also has a more monstrous surprise that I freakin loved, but I won’t elaborate and ruin it here.
The spicy scenes are excellent, although I do feel like this couple got less time to romp between the plot than the other couples or maybe it just seemed that way because of the near non-stop action and the fact that they’re not alone nearly as much as the other couples. Honor is a natural leader and protector, regardless of his gruff exterior, and he does a lot of collecting lost souls, similar to Hopper lol.
The plot? Truly a wild ride, emotional turbulence mentioned before aside. I keep thinking I know what’s going to happen and then L. Eveland goes in a different direction & it’s kinda nice to keep being surprised. I’m eager to see how they wrap the series up because there are still quite a few loose ends despite a lot of the ones from prior books being tied up nicely in this one.
As always please check the TWs because there are a few doozies, but Eveland does an incredible job with content notes.
August 2, 2023
Bounty and Bone is book 5 in the Monsters in My Bed series, with each book building and expanding on the one before. This series also just keeps getting better with each book, and this is partially because the world is developing and becoming more complex with each new couple/story.
One thing I love about this author is that they are completely open with their content/trigger warnings. I do not have any particular sensitivities, but I can appreciate such a list for those that do have things they need to avoid, or at least be warned about before stumbling across them.
However, and this is just my humble opinion, I think the author over-emphasised the darkness in this book. Admittedly, this story is a bit darker than their previous books. The subjects it touches on (particularly grief and transphobia/transphobic language) and a few things that happen to the characters (especially towards the end) do tip it into the dark grey area, but I would not classify it as dark.
I’m a bit sensitive when it comes to really dark stories, but I didn’t have any problems with this story. My suggestion would be to read the content warnings, which cover pretty much all the really ‘intense’ bits, but if you’re like me and a bit of a wuss, don’t be too put off by the dark warnings. I would classify it as mid-dark grey rather than black in intensity.
Regardless of the intensity of the dark, it is equally matched by light. As you’d expect from this series there are many light moments to ensure the story is never overly intense or heavy. Although Honor is still dealing with his grief, he still has many lighter moments, especially with Ziggy who is such a lovely sunshiney character.
I love that Phoenix and Bud played a large role in the story, as they are two of my favourites (although I’ve loved all the pairings). There was also some buildup scattered throughout for Axel’s story, and I can’t wait to see what is actually going on!
Bounty and Bone is a lovely addition to the Monsters in My Bed series, and despite it having a few more intense/serious moments than previous books, it has a beautiful ending that sets up Axel’s story perfectly.
I would not recommend reading Bounty and Bone as a standalone. You really need the backstories of the characters and events of previous books to really understand what is going on. This series really is a rolling ball, with each new book building on the previous books. So if you are newly interested in this series, I’d really really recommend you start with Kissed by the Krampus and go from there.
I am loving this series, and I cannot wait for the next instalment!!
Highly Recommended!
One thing I love about this author is that they are completely open with their content/trigger warnings. I do not have any particular sensitivities, but I can appreciate such a list for those that do have things they need to avoid, or at least be warned about before stumbling across them.
However, and this is just my humble opinion, I think the author over-emphasised the darkness in this book. Admittedly, this story is a bit darker than their previous books. The subjects it touches on (particularly grief and transphobia/transphobic language) and a few things that happen to the characters (especially towards the end) do tip it into the dark grey area, but I would not classify it as dark.
I’m a bit sensitive when it comes to really dark stories, but I didn’t have any problems with this story. My suggestion would be to read the content warnings, which cover pretty much all the really ‘intense’ bits, but if you’re like me and a bit of a wuss, don’t be too put off by the dark warnings. I would classify it as mid-dark grey rather than black in intensity.
Regardless of the intensity of the dark, it is equally matched by light. As you’d expect from this series there are many light moments to ensure the story is never overly intense or heavy. Although Honor is still dealing with his grief, he still has many lighter moments, especially with Ziggy who is such a lovely sunshiney character.
I love that Phoenix and Bud played a large role in the story, as they are two of my favourites (although I’ve loved all the pairings). There was also some buildup scattered throughout for Axel’s story, and I can’t wait to see what is actually going on!
Bounty and Bone is a lovely addition to the Monsters in My Bed series, and despite it having a few more intense/serious moments than previous books, it has a beautiful ending that sets up Axel’s story perfectly.
I would not recommend reading Bounty and Bone as a standalone. You really need the backstories of the characters and events of previous books to really understand what is going on. This series really is a rolling ball, with each new book building on the previous books. So if you are newly interested in this series, I’d really really recommend you start with Kissed by the Krampus and go from there.
I am loving this series, and I cannot wait for the next instalment!!
Highly Recommended!
July 25, 2023
I enjoyed this book. I was happy for Honor. I can't wait for more about axel. This book answered so many plot line and questions I had but also gave more questions.. I can not wait for Axels book I really think the ghost is that monster who goes invisible, protects him and is mated to him. Maybe he can't communication yet? I can't wait to find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2023
Another Interesting Story
This series has been interesting from the start. Honor and Ziggy's story is another interesting story. I enjoyed reading it quite a bit.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This series has been interesting from the start. Honor and Ziggy's story is another interesting story. I enjoyed reading it quite a bit.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
December 18, 2025
My second favorite of the series, I wasn't expecting this book at all. Honor tries so hard not to want Ziggy but that doesn't last long🤍 Ziggy is such a gentle giant until he isn't, iykyk!
February 18, 2026
Jesus F Christ 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️ I'm really regretting my option to listen to this copycat/plagiarised series.
Firstly, the gender politics in EVERY SINGLE BOOK is becoming a bit tedious... it's too much!
Secondly, the human MC is if I'm understanding correctly, a trans-man, who I'm guessing gave birth to Axel?!? 🤔
& hold TF up... I'm assuming the deadnaming is a female name, yet the author CHOSE Honor, which is also a female name 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️ i thought it was the character's surname as usually that's how law enforcement agents are known by... their surname not their first name, but I'm guessing Rose is the surname as Axel said his whole name was Axel Rose & Ziggy commented that they both have the same surname.... 🤔
The author is simultaneously trying to portray it as normal whilst also using it as a plot device... it's kinda feeling like a gender reveal party as a subplot.. Just state it from the beginning & let's get on with the story without it being used as some sort of mystery/intrigue plot device!
Ziggy is an alien, so he may not be aware about about transgender operations & the resulting scars, so rather than helping to educate him, he's shamed for asking even though the human MC is not hiding the scars & is walking around barechested.
I had a breast reduction & obviously I was left with scars around my breast area. Every single one of my sexual partners were NATURALLY curious about said scars & I simply told them what they were... SIMPLES!
& more often than not, I started telling them as soon as it got to naked time as I personally don't really care about scars, but I know some people do & it can be a shock (not so much now as the scars have faded considerably, it's been nearly 20 years & I've been with my partner for the past decade, but they were very noticeable for a while) No need to be offended by every little thing, it's natural for people to be curious... STREWTH!
Also, scars do NOT imply that the person has had an operation. I have MULTIPLE scars (beyond the ones on my breasts, which are my only surgical scars, but I'm chock full of them all over my body) as well as a now also faded horizontal stripe scar on my chest from when I was little & I fell down from the highest pine tree in our neighborhood.
As I held on to the trunk as I was falling, my chest area was SHREDDED. I never went to the doctors, but the scar ended up as a very straight line down my torso & most people used to think that it had been surgical... it wasn't & again when anyone expressed curiosity about it, I just say what happened... no need to quote HIPPA (I live in the UK, but I know that's a very US thing), if you don't wish to say what the scars are... don't, but don't shame people, especially innocent minded people... that just makes you a jackass IMO!
As with most of the characters in this series, I'm LOVING the monster MC (well, except Hopper who the author never developed beyond him being a sexual object for his human MC), but I'm not sold on the human MC... The whole scene in the lift when the HMC was being unnecessarily nasty to poor Ziggy 😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬
Disrespecting Ziggy's culture by calling his armour "stupid bones" which he broke & didn't even apologise for & just walked out of the room without even leaving an apology note or anything even remotely displaying remorse for breaking someone's property....😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬
Telling Ziggy that he doesn't want to mate him, but then being quick to try to get in his pants?!? Kissing him without consent & not taking into consideration that he's hurting Ziggy's feelings by both rejecting him & trying to fuck him at the same time...😡🤬😡🤬😡
Although the image in my mind of Ziggy grabbing onto his tail is beyond adorable 🥹🥹🤗... I do hate the HMC for making Ziggy feel so self-conscious & guilty about his anatomy... he explained that his tail has a mind of its own & it clearly only wants a cuddle... CUDDLE THE TAIL, GODDAMMIT 😡🤬😡🤬😡
Honestly, I think the only human MC that I actually liked was Charlie & Phoenix's protectiveness over Bud, but I hated what an ungrateful sod he was to Axel... so, this author is not that good at building likeable (human) characters IMO, even with the blatant plagiarism, the author was & has been unable to copy Lily Mayne's ability to create charming, lovable (human) characters 🤷♀️
This author is also from the school of thought (of authors) who confuse lust with love &/or think they're synonymous... they're not!
Finally finished... had to take a break as Honor was doing head in throughout.
He never asks Ziggy what the knotting means, yet takes it without letting Ziggy in on his plans.
For all he knows, because he never cared enough to find out, the knotting means that they're mated for life & if he dies, so does Ziggy... but he makes a decision that affects them both without consulting Ziggy or even telling him what he's planning! 😡🤬😡🤬😡
He finds out that the military DID sabotage Ziggy's home, but rather than telling him straight away so Ziggy can warn his elders, he waits until Ziggy arrives to the same conclusion & they're in the other world, so no way to contact Ziggy's people.
He thinks the military are going to target Axel & even if they no longer have mobile phones on them, there ARE payphones nearly everywhere you go... CALL him & warn him 🤦♀️ the assumption that the military is going to wait until you're finished with your current mission is moronic!
Both Honor & Phoenix conclude that Ziggy & Bud are more susceptible to surviving the desert because they require constant moisture, so this jackass forces Ziggy to carry him, even though Ziggy is severely dehydrated when he COULD'VE walked on his own 2 feet for several more hours, but he's throwing a strop... 😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬😡😡
& Ziggy IS exceptionally strong, so rather than taking the bags from him, they should've added extra bags with much needed water seeing as they all knew they would be crossing a desert for a minimum of THREE days & Ziggy & Bud would require more water than Phoenix & Honor, but again he was letting his moronic pissing contest overrule common sense 🤦♀️
Weren't the soldiers at the base EXPECTING a gunshot seeing as that was what the colonel or whatever the villain was... I've already forgotten it, but I think 🤔... I think that the author did name him Tom Jones like the singer, (but I might be wrong, I genuinely only remember Jones & I think Tom was mentioned 🤷♀️)... there's no end to this author's creativity 🙄🙄
So if they WERE expecting a gunshot WHY did they come running?!
OK, on an aside note, for me acceptance does not mean bending reality to fit a specific narrative, irrespective of what that is... you see a of reality bending by Brexiteers in the UK & Trumpists in tge US to name a few...
Honor is a TRANS-man, so biologically still female, there's no way to change that... maybe one day science will advance that far, but not yet... no amount of surgery or hormone therapy can change that currently...
So & I say this as a woman who IS atrong, but I'll NEVER be stronger than a man... maybe an extremely weak man, but most certainly NOT a Navy Seal type man... under any circumstances, so Honour trying to have a pissing contest with Phoenix over who can hold more bags is moronic!
& especially if we take into account that Honour himself said that he'd never had any military training... so he'd be screwed even against a female soldier 🤷♀️
Front hole... really?! Come now... that's what I'm not a fan of with these new gender politics... it's a vulva, if there wasn't a vaginectomy , it's still a vagina/vulva, calling it a hole doesn't change the facts! Even if a phalloplasty is done, UNLESS the vagina has been surgically removed, you still have a vagina & probably the vulva also...
Trans men can & do still mentruate UNLESS they've had a hysterectomy, because they still have their biological reproductive organs, including a vagina UNLESS it's been surgically removed/reconstructed, even a phalloplasty doesn't mean that they no longer have a vagina!
Firstly, the gender politics in EVERY SINGLE BOOK is becoming a bit tedious... it's too much!
Secondly, the human MC is if I'm understanding correctly, a trans-man, who I'm guessing gave birth to Axel?!? 🤔
& hold TF up... I'm assuming the deadnaming is a female name, yet the author CHOSE Honor, which is also a female name 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️ i thought it was the character's surname as usually that's how law enforcement agents are known by... their surname not their first name, but I'm guessing Rose is the surname as Axel said his whole name was Axel Rose & Ziggy commented that they both have the same surname.... 🤔
The author is simultaneously trying to portray it as normal whilst also using it as a plot device... it's kinda feeling like a gender reveal party as a subplot.. Just state it from the beginning & let's get on with the story without it being used as some sort of mystery/intrigue plot device!
Ziggy is an alien, so he may not be aware about about transgender operations & the resulting scars, so rather than helping to educate him, he's shamed for asking even though the human MC is not hiding the scars & is walking around barechested.
I had a breast reduction & obviously I was left with scars around my breast area. Every single one of my sexual partners were NATURALLY curious about said scars & I simply told them what they were... SIMPLES!
& more often than not, I started telling them as soon as it got to naked time as I personally don't really care about scars, but I know some people do & it can be a shock (not so much now as the scars have faded considerably, it's been nearly 20 years & I've been with my partner for the past decade, but they were very noticeable for a while) No need to be offended by every little thing, it's natural for people to be curious... STREWTH!
Also, scars do NOT imply that the person has had an operation. I have MULTIPLE scars (beyond the ones on my breasts, which are my only surgical scars, but I'm chock full of them all over my body) as well as a now also faded horizontal stripe scar on my chest from when I was little & I fell down from the highest pine tree in our neighborhood.
As I held on to the trunk as I was falling, my chest area was SHREDDED. I never went to the doctors, but the scar ended up as a very straight line down my torso & most people used to think that it had been surgical... it wasn't & again when anyone expressed curiosity about it, I just say what happened... no need to quote HIPPA (I live in the UK, but I know that's a very US thing), if you don't wish to say what the scars are... don't, but don't shame people, especially innocent minded people... that just makes you a jackass IMO!
As with most of the characters in this series, I'm LOVING the monster MC (well, except Hopper who the author never developed beyond him being a sexual object for his human MC), but I'm not sold on the human MC... The whole scene in the lift when the HMC was being unnecessarily nasty to poor Ziggy 😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬
Disrespecting Ziggy's culture by calling his armour "stupid bones" which he broke & didn't even apologise for & just walked out of the room without even leaving an apology note or anything even remotely displaying remorse for breaking someone's property....😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬
Telling Ziggy that he doesn't want to mate him, but then being quick to try to get in his pants?!? Kissing him without consent & not taking into consideration that he's hurting Ziggy's feelings by both rejecting him & trying to fuck him at the same time...😡🤬😡🤬😡
Although the image in my mind of Ziggy grabbing onto his tail is beyond adorable 🥹🥹🤗... I do hate the HMC for making Ziggy feel so self-conscious & guilty about his anatomy... he explained that his tail has a mind of its own & it clearly only wants a cuddle... CUDDLE THE TAIL, GODDAMMIT 😡🤬😡🤬😡
Honestly, I think the only human MC that I actually liked was Charlie & Phoenix's protectiveness over Bud, but I hated what an ungrateful sod he was to Axel... so, this author is not that good at building likeable (human) characters IMO, even with the blatant plagiarism, the author was & has been unable to copy Lily Mayne's ability to create charming, lovable (human) characters 🤷♀️
This author is also from the school of thought (of authors) who confuse lust with love &/or think they're synonymous... they're not!
Finally finished... had to take a break as Honor was doing head in throughout.
He never asks Ziggy what the knotting means, yet takes it without letting Ziggy in on his plans.
For all he knows, because he never cared enough to find out, the knotting means that they're mated for life & if he dies, so does Ziggy... but he makes a decision that affects them both without consulting Ziggy or even telling him what he's planning! 😡🤬😡🤬😡
He finds out that the military DID sabotage Ziggy's home, but rather than telling him straight away so Ziggy can warn his elders, he waits until Ziggy arrives to the same conclusion & they're in the other world, so no way to contact Ziggy's people.
He thinks the military are going to target Axel & even if they no longer have mobile phones on them, there ARE payphones nearly everywhere you go... CALL him & warn him 🤦♀️ the assumption that the military is going to wait until you're finished with your current mission is moronic!
Both Honor & Phoenix conclude that Ziggy & Bud are more susceptible to surviving the desert because they require constant moisture, so this jackass forces Ziggy to carry him, even though Ziggy is severely dehydrated when he COULD'VE walked on his own 2 feet for several more hours, but he's throwing a strop... 😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬😡🤬😡😡
& Ziggy IS exceptionally strong, so rather than taking the bags from him, they should've added extra bags with much needed water seeing as they all knew they would be crossing a desert for a minimum of THREE days & Ziggy & Bud would require more water than Phoenix & Honor, but again he was letting his moronic pissing contest overrule common sense 🤦♀️
Weren't the soldiers at the base EXPECTING a gunshot seeing as that was what the colonel or whatever the villain was... I've already forgotten it, but I think 🤔... I think that the author did name him Tom Jones like the singer, (but I might be wrong, I genuinely only remember Jones & I think Tom was mentioned 🤷♀️)... there's no end to this author's creativity 🙄🙄
So if they WERE expecting a gunshot WHY did they come running?!
OK, on an aside note, for me acceptance does not mean bending reality to fit a specific narrative, irrespective of what that is... you see a of reality bending by Brexiteers in the UK & Trumpists in tge US to name a few...
Honor is a TRANS-man, so biologically still female, there's no way to change that... maybe one day science will advance that far, but not yet... no amount of surgery or hormone therapy can change that currently...
So & I say this as a woman who IS atrong, but I'll NEVER be stronger than a man... maybe an extremely weak man, but most certainly NOT a Navy Seal type man... under any circumstances, so Honour trying to have a pissing contest with Phoenix over who can hold more bags is moronic!
& especially if we take into account that Honour himself said that he'd never had any military training... so he'd be screwed even against a female soldier 🤷♀️
Front hole... really?! Come now... that's what I'm not a fan of with these new gender politics... it's a vulva, if there wasn't a vaginectomy , it's still a vagina/vulva, calling it a hole doesn't change the facts! Even if a phalloplasty is done, UNLESS the vagina has been surgically removed, you still have a vagina & probably the vulva also...
Trans men can & do still mentruate UNLESS they've had a hysterectomy, because they still have their biological reproductive organs, including a vagina UNLESS it's been surgically removed/reconstructed, even a phalloplasty doesn't mean that they no longer have a vagina!
November 23, 2025
This was more of a 3.5 star rounded up to be perfectly honest. Though I'm still enjoying the series, I can't say any book has hit its mark like the first one did. While I really liked Ziggy's character, I can't say that I was overly fond of Honor. He was really the "woe is me" " I never left my middle school emo phase" "no one gets me, gaaaahd" type and that just isn't my thing. I'm excited for Axle's book but I really hope it's not another let down.
April 2, 2026
I tried to like this book but it just wasn’t for me it felt like he was just pushing him away the whole time and when he wasn’t doing that they were fucking it didn’t feel like a romance book to me
August 11, 2026
The world-building and characters are fantastic, but unfortunately, the relationship aspect suffered quite badly. This felt like a quest within a quest, with a side quest thrown in for good measure, followed by endless discussions about the same discussion, misunderstandings, dead lovers, and enough emotional circling to make me wonder whether we were actually going anywhere.
Ziggy was dealt a truly shitty hand, and I genuinely felt for him. Honor, however, spent far too much of the book being an emotionally constipated shithead, wallowing in his own misery instead of actually making an effort to build a meaningful bond with Ziggy.
And then we need to talk about the **blood after sex** situation. What the fuckity fuck was that supposed to do for me? Because apparently I was meant to find it sexy, whereas my gynecologist would probably look at the situation and say, *absolutely not, stop immediately, something has gone horribly wrong.* If there is blood, you are not having a particularly successful sexual encounter—you are having a medical concern. That is not spice. That is a reason to make an appointment. I am sorry, but I simply could not get on board with that one.
I was also intrigued by the little thread suggesting that Ziggy might be submissive, because I thought that could have taken the story in a really interesting direction. There seemed to be something developing there, and I was genuinely curious to see whether the author would explore it further. But nope. That thread was pretty much abandoned in favor of having Ziggy turn into the Hulk whenever he got angry.
As for the big bad of the book? Oh, you know. *The fucker who simply refuses to die.* Michael Myers would be proud. This man has more lives than a cat and, at this point, I genuinely expected him to crawl back out of the rubble after every single death. Cut off one head and two more assholes appear. Hydra, but make it deeply irritating.
And, naturally, we have the military. Because apparently no monster series is complete without the military showing up to make everything significantly worse. At this point, the moment I see a military base, I know somebody is about to make a catastrophically stupid decision and the entire place is going to end up in flames. Honestly, at this point, the military is less a plot element and more a recurring environmental hazard.
And the plot twist regarding Honor's mate's death? Please. **Who didn't see that coming?** I practically heard the dramatic music cue several chapters in advance.
So, yes. Another day, another military base blown to hell, another Parker, another species added to an increasingly elaborate universe... but sadly, not another god-tier love story.
And honestly, that was the part I wanted most.
Ziggy was dealt a truly shitty hand, and I genuinely felt for him. Honor, however, spent far too much of the book being an emotionally constipated shithead, wallowing in his own misery instead of actually making an effort to build a meaningful bond with Ziggy.
And then we need to talk about the **blood after sex** situation. What the fuckity fuck was that supposed to do for me? Because apparently I was meant to find it sexy, whereas my gynecologist would probably look at the situation and say, *absolutely not, stop immediately, something has gone horribly wrong.* If there is blood, you are not having a particularly successful sexual encounter—you are having a medical concern. That is not spice. That is a reason to make an appointment. I am sorry, but I simply could not get on board with that one.
I was also intrigued by the little thread suggesting that Ziggy might be submissive, because I thought that could have taken the story in a really interesting direction. There seemed to be something developing there, and I was genuinely curious to see whether the author would explore it further. But nope. That thread was pretty much abandoned in favor of having Ziggy turn into the Hulk whenever he got angry.
As for the big bad of the book? Oh, you know. *The fucker who simply refuses to die.* Michael Myers would be proud. This man has more lives than a cat and, at this point, I genuinely expected him to crawl back out of the rubble after every single death. Cut off one head and two more assholes appear. Hydra, but make it deeply irritating.
And, naturally, we have the military. Because apparently no monster series is complete without the military showing up to make everything significantly worse. At this point, the moment I see a military base, I know somebody is about to make a catastrophically stupid decision and the entire place is going to end up in flames. Honestly, at this point, the military is less a plot element and more a recurring environmental hazard.
And the plot twist regarding Honor's mate's death? Please. **Who didn't see that coming?** I practically heard the dramatic music cue several chapters in advance.
So, yes. Another day, another military base blown to hell, another Parker, another species added to an increasingly elaborate universe... but sadly, not another god-tier love story.
And honestly, that was the part I wanted most.
August 11, 2023
This is probably my favorite book of this series. If not my favorite then it’s definitely in the top two. There were numerous things about this book that I enjoyed, but there were a couple that were my favorites.
I enjoyed the dynamic between Ziggy and Honor. There were numerous times I wanted to slap Honor upside the head for how he treated Ziggy, but he did apologize, sincerely, and once he realized how badly Ziggy had been treated in the past, he stuck up for him and essentially hyped Ziggy up. Honor was also always there for Ziggy when he needed it no matter how Honor felt.
I also enjoyed how much they seemed to get each other, and how seemingly perfect they were for each other, without Honor realizing it or wanting it, in the beginning at least. I think one of my favorite parts was Ziggy’s reaction to two people kissing for the first time and how surprised he was that her face had not been eaten.
I also enjoyed the representation in this book. Each book has some kind of representation to it, but I deeply enjoyed L. Eveland’s take on Trans representation. My favorite thing was the fact that every one seemed to know about Honor being trans but no one seemed to care, minus one select individual. And they all seemed to realize that even with Honor being trans it did not take away from how good he was at his job. Another thing I enjoyed was that even when that select person dead named Honor, L Eveland didn’t actually use his dead name, which was a perspective I deeply enjoyed, because it got across how much of an ass Colonel Jacobs is and how harmful deadnaming is without trying to trigger the readers.
I enjoyed the dynamic between Ziggy and Honor. There were numerous times I wanted to slap Honor upside the head for how he treated Ziggy, but he did apologize, sincerely, and once he realized how badly Ziggy had been treated in the past, he stuck up for him and essentially hyped Ziggy up. Honor was also always there for Ziggy when he needed it no matter how Honor felt.
I also enjoyed how much they seemed to get each other, and how seemingly perfect they were for each other, without Honor realizing it or wanting it, in the beginning at least. I think one of my favorite parts was Ziggy’s reaction to two people kissing for the first time and how surprised he was that her face had not been eaten.
I also enjoyed the representation in this book. Each book has some kind of representation to it, but I deeply enjoyed L. Eveland’s take on Trans representation. My favorite thing was the fact that every one seemed to know about Honor being trans but no one seemed to care, minus one select individual. And they all seemed to realize that even with Honor being trans it did not take away from how good he was at his job. Another thing I enjoyed was that even when that select person dead named Honor, L Eveland didn’t actually use his dead name, which was a perspective I deeply enjoyed, because it got across how much of an ass Colonel Jacobs is and how harmful deadnaming is without trying to trigger the readers.
March 31, 2024
4.5 stars
I loved Honor and Ziggy. Loved them. The trans rep in this was amazing. Honor was such an interesting character that doesn't take shit from anyone. L Eveland handled his character really well and I enjoyed how they set up the trigger warnings/acknowledgements. This sold the author as an auto-buy/read from now on.
I also love how the characters from past books continue to interact with the main pair of the book. Everyone has great chemistry and work well together. Plot wise, I think I would rather see the government agency exposed for the wack jobs they are (corrupt, transphobic ones at that) than to have Honor/Phoenix/Chris "die" and start living under fake id's- it obviously isn't working. I want to see Honor's previous lovers' dream come true and have monsters and humans coexisting without monsters being experimented on.
I wish we got to see what happened to Charlie and Cupid beyond the veil instead of the plot we did get in their book, Hearts and Halos. It seemed super interesting.
Sex scenes in this were perfect. The pegging, the vaginal sex, everything. L also handled Honor learning to be emotional with other people really well.
I loved Honor and Ziggy. Loved them. The trans rep in this was amazing. Honor was such an interesting character that doesn't take shit from anyone. L Eveland handled his character really well and I enjoyed how they set up the trigger warnings/acknowledgements. This sold the author as an auto-buy/read from now on.
I also love how the characters from past books continue to interact with the main pair of the book. Everyone has great chemistry and work well together. Plot wise, I think I would rather see the government agency exposed for the wack jobs they are (corrupt, transphobic ones at that) than to have Honor/Phoenix/Chris "die" and start living under fake id's- it obviously isn't working. I want to see Honor's previous lovers' dream come true and have monsters and humans coexisting without monsters being experimented on.
I wish we got to see what happened to Charlie and Cupid beyond the veil instead of the plot we did get in their book, Hearts and Halos. It seemed super interesting.
Sex scenes in this were perfect. The pegging, the vaginal sex, everything. L also handled Honor learning to be emotional with other people really well.
July 26, 2023
Honor and Ziggy together are kind of everything. They’ve both experienced a lot– and developed different ways of moving through the world as a result. Honor isn’t always careful with Ziggy (or anyone’s) feelings in the beginning, but watching Ziggy get through to him is well worth it. Ziggy is kind and sweet– he has a big heart and is much more, I think, than he often gets credit for being. The dynamic that develops between them is particular to their wants and needs, and is full of care and emotion and chemistry, and it’s hard to ask for more than that. If you were planning to ask for more, however, how about the imagination and nuance with which this series’ world is developed? Each ‘monster’ is super interesting and has not only a personal history but a cultural backstory and their own norms and expectations to boot. Like the previous books’, the plot in this one is full of action and intrigue (none of which I’m going to spoil, don’t worry) and it all adds up to an immersive read. 4.5 stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 30, 2023
What an interesting concept! I don't think I've ever read anything that has had so many different types of monsters in it. There were so many different species and traits unique to those species. The description of Ziggy was truly adorable, his description reminded me of a big cat. Well.. until he hulked out that is.
Honor's character I couldn't really relate to? I mean he was quite brash and harsh at times. And while I understand why he was bitter and jaded, he was quite rude to Ziggy, time and time again. I liked how much background detail there was as well as how the action scenes were written. Those were quite cool, and I kept holding my breath throughout the whole story, hoping the egg wouldn't get cracked. (You'll know what I'm talking about once you read it. )
I'm looking forward to the next book cause I really want to know if Honor is able to repair his relationship with Axel. And I'm eager to read about Axel's reaction to Honor's husband.
Overall a pretty interesting read!
Honor's character I couldn't really relate to? I mean he was quite brash and harsh at times. And while I understand why he was bitter and jaded, he was quite rude to Ziggy, time and time again. I liked how much background detail there was as well as how the action scenes were written. Those were quite cool, and I kept holding my breath throughout the whole story, hoping the egg wouldn't get cracked. (You'll know what I'm talking about once you read it. )
I'm looking forward to the next book cause I really want to know if Honor is able to repair his relationship with Axel. And I'm eager to read about Axel's reaction to Honor's husband.
Overall a pretty interesting read!
August 4, 2023
This took me a few days to read because Honor gave me all the feels. He is hurting, grumpy, brave, no-nonsense, honourable, sarcastic, tired, sassy, and healing. Ziggy is a fantastic partner for him. One of the things I was impressed about in this book was the way Honor was presented as a transman. There's a few places in the story where Honor's body and experiences affect the story, either in his relationship with Ziggy or his lived experience, but otherwise he is completely accepted by everyone except the villain. The villain also deadnames Honor, but the AUTHOR never does. The second thing I was impressed with was the depiction of polyamory, with one of my favourite quotes being "love isn't a pizza". I enjoyed seeing pretty much the whole team again (except for Chris and Krampus, although they do get a mention), and learning about Axel's origins. Eveland also introduces some new aspects into this universe - aliens and fae. I'm definitely looking forward to more in this series and any spinoffs. Eveland knows how to write a good intimate scene as well!
July 25, 2023
This book was as amazing as the others. Probably moving to the top of my list as the favorite in the series.
I was intrigued by Honor and Ziggy when we met them in Lassos and Lace.
This was the first book I've read with a trans man as an MC and I have to say L did an amazing job with the story. The whole thing was very well done in my opinion. The note at the beginning of the book helped.
I was thrilled to see old characters from past books. Hopefully they'll all have their HEAs.
Like all of the characters I hope one day monsters and humans could live in peace. They're moving in the right direction but I foresee more issues coming.
I loved Ziggy and Honor together. I loved how Ziggy was able to get through Honor's hard exterior. I loved that Ziggy was able to make him see that there could be love after loss. I cried several times as Honor tried to come to terms with that realization. It was beautiful.
I was intrigued by Honor and Ziggy when we met them in Lassos and Lace.
This was the first book I've read with a trans man as an MC and I have to say L did an amazing job with the story. The whole thing was very well done in my opinion. The note at the beginning of the book helped.
I was thrilled to see old characters from past books. Hopefully they'll all have their HEAs.
Like all of the characters I hope one day monsters and humans could live in peace. They're moving in the right direction but I foresee more issues coming.
I loved Ziggy and Honor together. I loved how Ziggy was able to get through Honor's hard exterior. I loved that Ziggy was able to make him see that there could be love after loss. I cried several times as Honor tried to come to terms with that realization. It was beautiful.
August 27, 2023
5 … monster… stars…
Lots and lots to say! First of all this series doesn’t get enough hype or love. I know how much I love them but then I read another one in this series and I’m sucked back in! I accidentally read this til 3am it’s so good and I haven’t done that in a long time.
We got some trans rep in this book and it was super well done. I’m not a big fan of poly but this had past poly and a little future heaven poly and I thought that was honestly such a nice way to think of relationships if you have more than one love in a lifetime.
Ziggy being the strongest creature yet and going literal hulk mode to save Honor is awesome. I’m excited for Axels book and hoping we get to learn more about his and Honors past. As usual these books had good conflict, action, and plot but also is mostly monster romance which I love.
2/5 on spice. 3/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. The gang keeps growing.
Lots and lots to say! First of all this series doesn’t get enough hype or love. I know how much I love them but then I read another one in this series and I’m sucked back in! I accidentally read this til 3am it’s so good and I haven’t done that in a long time.
We got some trans rep in this book and it was super well done. I’m not a big fan of poly but this had past poly and a little future heaven poly and I thought that was honestly such a nice way to think of relationships if you have more than one love in a lifetime.
Ziggy being the strongest creature yet and going literal hulk mode to save Honor is awesome. I’m excited for Axels book and hoping we get to learn more about his and Honors past. As usual these books had good conflict, action, and plot but also is mostly monster romance which I love.
2/5 on spice. 3/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. The gang keeps growing.
August 2, 2023
The plot in this one is quite a ride and I can't wait to see how this series wraps up. What really grabbed me in this one was the relationship building between Honor and Ziggy. Honor is one of the most determined characters I've seen not to get involved emotionally with anyone and early on, Ziggy is most emphatically and not so politely kept at a distance. That doesn't work for long, however, because it's impossible not to fall for Ziggy. The author has done a wonderful job here of creating a cinnamon roll character who has been treated badly but has never let that change their fundamental decency. They also have steel in their core that was lovely to see when it showed itself. Once Honor spends time with Ziggy, there's no way not to fall. These two nurture each other and make each other stronger. There's pain and darkness here, but also hope, support and love.
July 27, 2023
I loved this book so much!!!
My favourite things:
- Small grumpy human + large sweet cat-monster (that can turn into
- Honor is an awesome dom and caring partner
- Even though Ziggy is much bigger and stronger he is such a cute sub<3
- Clear communication about relationship!
- Honor does get deadnamed a few times but the actual deadname is not mentioned
- When Ziggy goes into
- Good balance between the plot and character moments
Can't wait to read Axel's book!
I received an ARC of this book and I hope my review encourages you to give this book and the whole series a try!
My favourite things:
- Small grumpy human + large sweet cat-monster (that can turn into
- Honor is an awesome dom and caring partner
- Even though Ziggy is much bigger and stronger he is such a cute sub<3
- Clear communication about relationship!
- Honor does get deadnamed a few times but the actual deadname is not mentioned
- When Ziggy goes into
- Good balance between the plot and character moments
Can't wait to read Axel's book!
I received an ARC of this book and I hope my review encourages you to give this book and the whole series a try!
July 28, 2023
This book (and series) is just soo good, it's kinda hard to convey. There's so much more to it than just 'monster' or 'romance'. Like the others in the series, it's a complex, well thought-out paranormal fantasy that will draw you in, and then - bam - have some monster play while you're at it. I love how L.Eveland incorporates various elements of trans, poly, LGBTQ+ and disability rep into her stories. All her characters are flawed, real people - even the ones with fur, scales, or 4 arms. It reads well by itself too, so don't worry if you've not read all the others in the series - though I thoroughly recommend Kissed by the Krampus in particular, if you want to go back and start from the beginning.
July 24, 2023
Honor is a trans man, poly amorous and pansexual. He is also an absolute loner until he is assigned to work with Ziggy, a blue furry monster on a mission. As they face peril and have to figure out who is friend or foe, they open their hearts, feelings and bodies to each other. Friends from previous books unite with them as Honor chooses to face his past to save Ziggy. Ziggy is such a gentle soul who fiercely loves Honor. I love the monster series as each human pairs with a monster and each one shows when the military is trying to harm the monsters, a few brave humans choose the monsters and try to protect them. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
September 1, 2024
3.5⭐️
This series is getting a lot more action focused, which isnt typically what I go for but its still a fun read. It was a bit disappointing that this book followed a couple we hadn't met before, considering all the previous couples had appeared (before they got together of course) in previous books, or at least the protagonist had, however this couple did slot into the continuing storyline well.
There was also great representation of a ftm trans main character, including in smut scenes without fetishising them.
3.5⭐️ for me personally because I vibed with this book and plot but too much smut for me 🫣
This series is getting a lot more action focused, which isnt typically what I go for but its still a fun read. It was a bit disappointing that this book followed a couple we hadn't met before, considering all the previous couples had appeared (before they got together of course) in previous books, or at least the protagonist had, however this couple did slot into the continuing storyline well.
There was also great representation of a ftm trans main character, including in smut scenes without fetishising them.
3.5⭐️ for me personally because I vibed with this book and plot but too much smut for me 🫣
July 23, 2025
Honor and ziggys story was super interesting and with action and I so loved it. Ziggys is such a good kitten, but don't make him mad cuZ when he goes Al monster he is scary af and indestructible too. I loved to see more of Axels story and his parents and more of his heritage, superrr interesting.
This book was as about healing too and finding love again after a loss of your loved ones. Honor carried so much sadness and guilt , am so happy he and ziggys found each other.
We also get to see more here about cupid and Charlie's whereabouts and Phoenix, bud and junior appear too!! Although junior is an egg still. I love phoenix and bud so much
This book was as about healing too and finding love again after a loss of your loved ones. Honor carried so much sadness and guilt , am so happy he and ziggys found each other.
We also get to see more here about cupid and Charlie's whereabouts and Phoenix, bud and junior appear too!! Although junior is an egg still. I love phoenix and bud so much
August 15, 2025
I rly thought this would be my least fave in the series bc I was like who tf are honor and ziggy and why do I care about them but uh....turns out I care a lot
this was great. plus FTM trans rep and we never get that!!!! plus lots of phoenix and bud and I loved it!!!! honor/phoenix's begrudging frenemy-ship is so cute and funny to me
my only qualm is these books kinda all have the same structure...monster + human reluctantly thrown together, oh no he's hot, they fuck and fall in love, then there's some dramatic showdown at an ESCU base. it just gets a lil tiring after a while but it IS very satisfying to read them blowing up military bases ngl
this was great. plus FTM trans rep and we never get that!!!! plus lots of phoenix and bud and I loved it!!!! honor/phoenix's begrudging frenemy-ship is so cute and funny to me
my only qualm is these books kinda all have the same structure...monster + human reluctantly thrown together, oh no he's hot, they fuck and fall in love, then there's some dramatic showdown at an ESCU base. it just gets a lil tiring after a while but it IS very satisfying to read them blowing up military bases ngl
July 26, 2023
My heart is quite attached to all that is Ziggy. Such a sweet blue monster who just needs some special emotional and physical care. Honor really steps up and goes beyond his own comfort zone as he grows to understand Ziggy's past experiences. I absolutely loved Honor for becoming softer for his Ziggy! Ziggy is completely smitten with Honor. I must mention that Honor was a unique representation of a trans man, and I was very intrigued with all things about his life. We get to see our previous monster pairings as well. Love this world!
March 3, 2024
4 Stars
A very enjoyable installment in the series. I wasn't sure I was going to like Honor at first, but he grew on me eventually. Ziggy I loved from the start. How could you not like a giant furry cinnamon roll of a monster. I was happy that Honor finally got himself together to be the partner Ziggy wanted from the start. I was excited that our MCs got to visit the monster world this time. I am looking forward to Honor's reunion wit Axel and the rest of his story.
A very enjoyable installment in the series. I wasn't sure I was going to like Honor at first, but he grew on me eventually. Ziggy I loved from the start. How could you not like a giant furry cinnamon roll of a monster. I was happy that Honor finally got himself together to be the partner Ziggy wanted from the start. I was excited that our MCs got to visit the monster world this time. I am looking forward to Honor's reunion wit Axel and the rest of his story.
July 25, 2025
This may have been my favorite book in the series.
Honor and Ziggy were an awkward match at first… but Ziggy’s gentleness and softness were the perfect balm for Honors trauma.
The overall plot for the series progressed more and I like how we got to see more of the monster universe in this story.
I’m glad Honor found Ziggy and was able to heal the way he needed to in order to properly mourn Kit and Jesse.
Honor and Ziggy were an awkward match at first… but Ziggy’s gentleness and softness were the perfect balm for Honors trauma.
The overall plot for the series progressed more and I like how we got to see more of the monster universe in this story.
I’m glad Honor found Ziggy and was able to heal the way he needed to in order to properly mourn Kit and Jesse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
Could have been my favourite since I loved Ziggy so much and Honor was a stubborn potato, but I didn't like how some parts of their relationship or some of Honor's choices were towards the end. They didn't communicated as much as they could and we don't learn as much as we could have about Ziggy.
I still had a good time and really liked the trans rep and how it was handled when the bad guy disrespected Honor's identity.
Narrator: Simon Dornet & Lance West
Could have been my favourite since I loved Ziggy so much and Honor was a stubborn potato, but I didn't like how some parts of their relationship or some of Honor's choices were towards the end. They didn't communicated as much as they could and we don't learn as much as we could have about Ziggy.
I still had a good time and really liked the trans rep and how it was handled when the bad guy disrespected Honor's identity.
Narrator: Simon Dornet & Lance West
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