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Demons-In-Law #3
Zachary
A dragon with endless secrets meets a demon with nothing to hide…
I’m the easygoing one. The fun one. The rare member of my family who gets along with anyone. Except there’s a chance I may have got off on the wrong foot with our new dragon liaison, Ronan. In my defense, he rubs everyone the wrong way. The only thing he’s got going for him is his looks… if the miserable frown weren’t there to mar them. But he seems to be trying harder to connect, and I guess I should do the same. Even if his arrival here was the beginning of all my problems.
When I cross the line and guilt compels me to apologize, I get my first glimpse of a different Ronan. Someone who enjoys baking, thinks glitter is amazing, and wants people to like him. Someone I could be friends with. And when that frown disappears? I want more than just friendship.
But there’s something going on with him, something he’s been carrying for a long time. He’s been hurt before, and the secrets he’s keeping are the kind that eat you inside. How can we take things to the next step if he can’t be open with me?
It’s only when he steps up to make all my dreams come true that I realize some secrets need to stay that way… and that loving Ronan means accepting him for who he really is.
I’m the easygoing one. The fun one. The rare member of my family who gets along with anyone. Except there’s a chance I may have got off on the wrong foot with our new dragon liaison, Ronan. In my defense, he rubs everyone the wrong way. The only thing he’s got going for him is his looks… if the miserable frown weren’t there to mar them. But he seems to be trying harder to connect, and I guess I should do the same. Even if his arrival here was the beginning of all my problems.
When I cross the line and guilt compels me to apologize, I get my first glimpse of a different Ronan. Someone who enjoys baking, thinks glitter is amazing, and wants people to like him. Someone I could be friends with. And when that frown disappears? I want more than just friendship.
But there’s something going on with him, something he’s been carrying for a long time. He’s been hurt before, and the secrets he’s keeping are the kind that eat you inside. How can we take things to the next step if he can’t be open with me?
It’s only when he steps up to make all my dreams come true that I realize some secrets need to stay that way… and that loving Ronan means accepting him for who he really is.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2024
165 people are currently reading
417 people want to read
About the author
Louisa Masters
74 books1,594 followersLOUISA MASTERS started reading romance much earlier than her mother thought she should. While other teenagers were sneaking out of the house, Louisa was sneaking romance novels in and working out how to read them without being discovered. She’s spent most of her life feeling sorry for people who don’t read, convinced that books are the solution to every problem. As an adult, she feeds her addiction in every spare second, only occasionally tearing herself away to do things like answer the phone and pay bills. She spent years trying to build a “sensible” career, working in bookstores, recruitment, resource management, administration, and as a travel agent, before finally conceding defeat and devoting herself to the world of romance novels. Louisa has a long list of places first discovered in books that she wants to visit, and every so often she overcomes her loathing of jet lag and takes a trip that charges her imagination. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, where she whines about the weather for most of the year while secretly admitting she’ll probably never move.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
January 31, 2024
Awwww!
This book made me smile, it's just got a really lovely feeling to it, especially when Zac gets his head out of his backside and realises he's taking out his frustrations on Ronan.
I absolutely love Louisa's Hidden Species world, so there's no great surprise that I loved this final instalment in the Demons-in-Law series which has been focusing on Gideon's cousins and their loves up in the village of Hortplatz in the depths of the Swiss Alps.
Ronan is Steffen's twin brother, someone who's had to deal with truly horrible things in his past which he's still very much feeling the aftereffects of and so it's no surprise that's he's socially awkward and really not sure of himself at all.
His arrival in the village to help out with the hidden dragon vault has already been fraught with issues, so Zac's sudden cold-shouldering only makes him feel more out of place (fluffy blanket and big hugs at the ready here! I wanted to whisk him away and make him feel better, the poor dragon).
There's obviously lots more to what's going on which I won't be spoiling but let's just have a massive round of applause for sorcerer Zoe! She sees that Ronan's struggling and goes out of her way to be a friend to him and I adored her for that.
As has been the case with all the books in this expanded universe, there's a lovely mix of humour, heat and pathos to bring an all round level of satisfaction from all the narratives being told.
My only complaint, and it's not a complaint as such but more me being nosy, is that I wanted to find out more about what, actually, was in the mysterious vault and why the dragon had created it in the first place.
I'm not sure if that may be coming in future stories though, so atm I'll just leave it as being a bit disappointed there wasn't more here.
Overall though, a fab way to round out this mini jaunt into the Demon community.
#ARC kindly received from the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review
This book made me smile, it's just got a really lovely feeling to it, especially when Zac gets his head out of his backside and realises he's taking out his frustrations on Ronan.
I absolutely love Louisa's Hidden Species world, so there's no great surprise that I loved this final instalment in the Demons-in-Law series which has been focusing on Gideon's cousins and their loves up in the village of Hortplatz in the depths of the Swiss Alps.
Ronan is Steffen's twin brother, someone who's had to deal with truly horrible things in his past which he's still very much feeling the aftereffects of and so it's no surprise that's he's socially awkward and really not sure of himself at all.
His arrival in the village to help out with the hidden dragon vault has already been fraught with issues, so Zac's sudden cold-shouldering only makes him feel more out of place (fluffy blanket and big hugs at the ready here! I wanted to whisk him away and make him feel better, the poor dragon).
There's obviously lots more to what's going on which I won't be spoiling but let's just have a massive round of applause for sorcerer Zoe! She sees that Ronan's struggling and goes out of her way to be a friend to him and I adored her for that.
As has been the case with all the books in this expanded universe, there's a lovely mix of humour, heat and pathos to bring an all round level of satisfaction from all the narratives being told.
My only complaint, and it's not a complaint as such but more me being nosy, is that I wanted to find out more about what, actually, was in the mysterious vault and why the dragon had created it in the first place.
I'm not sure if that may be coming in future stories though, so atm I'll just leave it as being a bit disappointed there wasn't more here.
Overall though, a fab way to round out this mini jaunt into the Demon community.
#ARC kindly received from the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review
March 19, 2025
Really enjoyed this one! And I'm glad I read the Here be Dragons series first, especially Conspiracy of Dragons. Added a lot to getting Ronan's story.
Hopefully we get more books set in this universe!!
Hopefully we get more books set in this universe!!
March 15, 2025
Secrets and magic.
Family and friends. Needs more
sex and species dick.
Family and friends. Needs more
sex and species dick.
January 21, 2024
This was delightful. I was wondering what route Zac and Ronan's would take, especially as they seemed to start with such a wrong foot. But I live how it went, how they shaped up, what they did for each other. The shenanigans! This is one I could se myself rereading in the future.
February 2, 2024
Easily the most laid back book in this series but still really enjoyable.
I liked the way Ronan grew into his dragon identity, and the group chats for making friends - I could do with a support group for that too, because I'm far too socially awkward!!
Zac was an interesting character and his laid back personality really came across in the other books, so it was instantly noticeable when he was desperately unhappy with his situation. I would have actually liked to see more of the story where the resort was up and running and Zac was in his element though as there was all this build up towards achieving the goal, and then the book ended pretty abruptly afterwards.
There were a lot of time jumps also, sometimes only a week or so, but there were so many I was starting to get frustrated that all of the character development and the romance building were taking place off page, and we were just told about it afterwards.
However, I really enjoyed Ronan going all fierce dragon on the grandmother to make sure Zac got what he needed to be happy! It was nice to see him being so confident in himself and I loved when he and Steffen had their chats too.
I liked the way Ronan grew into his dragon identity, and the group chats for making friends - I could do with a support group for that too, because I'm far too socially awkward!!
Zac was an interesting character and his laid back personality really came across in the other books, so it was instantly noticeable when he was desperately unhappy with his situation. I would have actually liked to see more of the story where the resort was up and running and Zac was in his element though as there was all this build up towards achieving the goal, and then the book ended pretty abruptly afterwards.
There were a lot of time jumps also, sometimes only a week or so, but there were so many I was starting to get frustrated that all of the character development and the romance building were taking place off page, and we were just told about it afterwards.
However, I really enjoyed Ronan going all fierce dragon on the grandmother to make sure Zac got what he needed to be happy! It was nice to see him being so confident in himself and I loved when he and Steffen had their chats too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2024
Can't lie the romance came out of nowhere on this one. I totally didn't think they were even at the stage of having romantic feelings yet-- so that felt rushed-- but the story here was good and I liked being back with all the characters. A good end to this series.
January 31, 2024
Demons in Law book 3 is the contnuiation of the storyline of the Hortzplatz demons and their need to integrate other species to their home to make all lives around them better.
This time, we get Zachary [zac) and Ronan (Steffans long lost twin from Here Be Dragons series) who set off on the wrong footing. Ronan is such a beautifully complex character. You feel his pain of never really knowing who he truly is until he gets this chance to be free. Zac sick of family obligation takes it out on Ronan until he sees the error of his ways, and when he does, a beautiful friendship begins. These two are just so dang sweet for each other and help build each other up. When they actually become friends, it's a beautiful thing to see.
As with most Louisa books, this is the right combination of heart and humor, leaving us with all the feels. That ending just hit me with all the feels just the right balance of sweet and zany that we've all come to know and love from this world.These two now own me, and I can not wait to see if Louisa will be able to top this couple and their beautiful collection of family and friends.
Audio update:Joel Leslie once again shows why he is the right narrator for this series of Louisa Masters. He brings the right amount of humor and seriousness to these beautiful characters. These books for me are no questions asked, but on audio, the stories are just that much better when brought to the audio format.
This time, we get Zachary [zac) and Ronan (Steffans long lost twin from Here Be Dragons series) who set off on the wrong footing. Ronan is such a beautifully complex character. You feel his pain of never really knowing who he truly is until he gets this chance to be free. Zac sick of family obligation takes it out on Ronan until he sees the error of his ways, and when he does, a beautiful friendship begins. These two are just so dang sweet for each other and help build each other up. When they actually become friends, it's a beautiful thing to see.
As with most Louisa books, this is the right combination of heart and humor, leaving us with all the feels. That ending just hit me with all the feels just the right balance of sweet and zany that we've all come to know and love from this world.These two now own me, and I can not wait to see if Louisa will be able to top this couple and their beautiful collection of family and friends.
Audio update:Joel Leslie once again shows why he is the right narrator for this series of Louisa Masters. He brings the right amount of humor and seriousness to these beautiful characters. These books for me are no questions asked, but on audio, the stories are just that much better when brought to the audio format.
January 25, 2024
Note to self: When an author tells you that their book is a
very slow burn.
Believe them. Because this is probably the s l o w e s t burn book I've read in a while. Now don't take that as I didn't enjoy it, cuz I totally did. I just want you to be prepared going in.
Ronan was nothing like I thought he would be and I honestly loved that. Seeing him finally start to come out of his shell after living with dragonkind for over 5 years was heartwarming. Every time he did something "dragon like" and he realized, it was such a surprise to him. He truly felt such a disconnect from his culture and it broke my heart. But who could blame him? He was raised by a psychopathic elf who bound his magic and convinced him of so many lies. Trauma like that takes time to heal. And sometimes a little distance. And it doesn't get much more distant than a remote mountain town where it snows most of the year.
Zac was kind of a brat in the beginning of this book. To be fair, he was dealing with his own personal issues, but that didn't mean he had to take out his frustration on Ronan. I have to give credit where credit is due though. Zac put on his big boy demon pants and made things right. It was cute seeing the two of them fumble around trying to be friends after getting off to a rocky start. I also really liked how patient Zac was with Ronan. It was exactly what Ronan needed and I feel like it helped to make them stronger as a couple.
The friend chat Ronan had going on made me laugh so hard. All their little tidbits of advice were of course all over the place, but it truly came from the love of their friend. The epilogue was super cute. It was great to see Ronan and Zac still blissfully happy years later. And the moment Ronan had with Steffen? Yeah, I may have almost teared up a bit. I'm sad this is the last in this series as I love this Universe, but I am definitely looking forward to Higher Demon which is a spin-off of the Ghostly Guardians series coming next!
Ronan was nothing like I thought he would be and I honestly loved that. Seeing him finally start to come out of his shell after living with dragonkind for over 5 years was heartwarming. Every time he did something "dragon like" and he realized, it was such a surprise to him. He truly felt such a disconnect from his culture and it broke my heart. But who could blame him? He was raised by a psychopathic elf who bound his magic and convinced him of so many lies. Trauma like that takes time to heal. And sometimes a little distance. And it doesn't get much more distant than a remote mountain town where it snows most of the year.
Zac was kind of a brat in the beginning of this book. To be fair, he was dealing with his own personal issues, but that didn't mean he had to take out his frustration on Ronan. I have to give credit where credit is due though. Zac put on his big boy demon pants and made things right. It was cute seeing the two of them fumble around trying to be friends after getting off to a rocky start. I also really liked how patient Zac was with Ronan. It was exactly what Ronan needed and I feel like it helped to make them stronger as a couple.
The friend chat Ronan had going on made me laugh so hard. All their little tidbits of advice were of course all over the place, but it truly came from the love of their friend. The epilogue was super cute. It was great to see Ronan and Zac still blissfully happy years later. And the moment Ronan had with Steffen? Yeah, I may have almost teared up a bit. I'm sad this is the last in this series as I love this Universe, but I am definitely looking forward to Higher Demon which is a spin-off of the Ghostly Guardians series coming next!
January 29, 2024
What a great finale, it’s my favorite of the Demons-In-Law and both MCs were cute and I needed more of them!
I am going to miss these characters so much🫢😩😭 what a wonderful journey! Steffen is THE BEST! And how he answers Ronan’s calls is both hilarious and sad🫢♥️
I am going to miss these characters so much🫢😩😭 what a wonderful journey! Steffen is THE BEST! And how he answers Ronan’s calls is both hilarious and sad🫢♥️
September 30, 2025
It's sad saying goodbye to these characters; not only the main characters of this trilogy but all the interconnected characters from all the series. I love how they were all here one way or the other and how much their connection and relationships are part of the story.
I was not expecting of loving Ronan as much as I did. His hoard, omg, nothing would've prepared me for that. I absolutely adored him; how shy and sweet he was, how he kept trying, at first failing, to connect with the people around him while at the same time trying to leave the past in the past and move on, find a place for himself, being happy inside and out.
Zac was so much fun and stubborn yet with a fragility that made you love him. He has dreams, projects, aspirations, but he is caged by family obligations he is volunteered for by his grandmother. Zac is frustrated so he takes out his frustration on Ronan at first and there just seemed to be no way for them to be even friends. Luckily one apology leads to talking, to opening up, to showing their true selves, to finding love.
The book is low angst, has a pinch of steam, and lots of feelings. Tiny misunderstandings easily solved, a lot of baking, secret plans, a hilarious group chat, and new friendships. And a lovely epilogue.
I will miss them all!
I was not expecting of loving Ronan as much as I did. His hoard, omg, nothing would've prepared me for that. I absolutely adored him; how shy and sweet he was, how he kept trying, at first failing, to connect with the people around him while at the same time trying to leave the past in the past and move on, find a place for himself, being happy inside and out.
Zac was so much fun and stubborn yet with a fragility that made you love him. He has dreams, projects, aspirations, but he is caged by family obligations he is volunteered for by his grandmother. Zac is frustrated so he takes out his frustration on Ronan at first and there just seemed to be no way for them to be even friends. Luckily one apology leads to talking, to opening up, to showing their true selves, to finding love.
The book is low angst, has a pinch of steam, and lots of feelings. Tiny misunderstandings easily solved, a lot of baking, secret plans, a hilarious group chat, and new friendships. And a lovely epilogue.
I will miss them all!
![Profile Image for ❀ Alex ❀ [Hiatus] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1724819109i%2F127505214._UX200_CR0%2C35%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 10, 2024
Rating: 3/5
Yeah, so the problem with this entire series is that there is not enough drama(realistic) to keep me engaged. In the previous two books I was initially intrigued but eventually lost interest.
Which is the case with this one as well. I sort of liked the characters and the plot of the book but everything is just too boring and uneventful. Not only that the story also drags at times.
Coming to the characters, I like Ronan and Zachary individually but in my opinion they do not have enough moments together for me to feel the romance or the chemistry. Too many moments with the side characters.Yes, the Mcs are cute together but that's not enough for me to root for them.
All in all I'm very underwhelmed by the series and unfortunately Lousia Masters might not be the author for me.
Yeah, so the problem with this entire series is that there is not enough drama(realistic) to keep me engaged. In the previous two books I was initially intrigued but eventually lost interest.
Which is the case with this one as well. I sort of liked the characters and the plot of the book but everything is just too boring and uneventful. Not only that the story also drags at times.
Coming to the characters, I like Ronan and Zachary individually but in my opinion they do not have enough moments together for me to feel the romance or the chemistry. Too many moments with the side characters.Yes, the Mcs are cute together but that's not enough for me to root for them.
All in all I'm very underwhelmed by the series and unfortunately Lousia Masters might not be the author for me.
February 2, 2024
Zachary, by Louisa Masters, is a hilarious adult m/m paranormal romance!
This is the third book in this series, which is a spin-off from another series of this author, and while you get the most out of these books if you read them in order, you can still enjoy this book as a stand alone. This author is so great at making these books laugh out loud funny, and Zachary is that for sure!
In addition, Zac and Ronan's romance may be the sweetest, most hopeful romance of the series! Ronan learns to make friends and get a boyfriend, and move on from past trauma. It's very cute how they help each other grow and heal.
This is the third book in this series, which is a spin-off from another series of this author, and while you get the most out of these books if you read them in order, you can still enjoy this book as a stand alone. This author is so great at making these books laugh out loud funny, and Zachary is that for sure!
In addition, Zac and Ronan's romance may be the sweetest, most hopeful romance of the series! Ronan learns to make friends and get a boyfriend, and move on from past trauma. It's very cute how they help each other grow and heal.
January 25, 2024
I was sooo excited for Ronan’s story since his first apparition, when they talked about sending a dragon for the cave, I was convinced it would be him.
It’s truly impossible to not feel for him, his life until the big revelation was a real sh*t-show and he deserves to find some happiness and learn about his own culture. He has that shy persona that puts him in bad positions but he only grows from it. I loved the absolute banter between him and his dragon friends who are “helpful” at least Alastair is not involved in this group chat 🤣 Now that Ronan is in Switzerland he has to make new friends and the team is ready !!
Meanwhile, Zac is the more laid-back of the cousins but seeing his dreams being crushed gets the better of him and his attitude towards Ronan pays the price. Afterwards, he tries to build a friendship with him - and starts to fall for our dragon
I truly loved that book, it was sooo sweet, I just wanted to hug Ronan and I’m happy for him.
Also, the family DRAMA was just epic !! And poor Gideon 🤣
I received an ARC Copy of this book from the author, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
It’s truly impossible to not feel for him, his life until the big revelation was a real sh*t-show and he deserves to find some happiness and learn about his own culture. He has that shy persona that puts him in bad positions but he only grows from it. I loved the absolute banter between him and his dragon friends who are “helpful” at least Alastair is not involved in this group chat 🤣 Now that Ronan is in Switzerland he has to make new friends and the team is ready !!
Meanwhile, Zac is the more laid-back of the cousins but seeing his dreams being crushed gets the better of him and his attitude towards Ronan pays the price. Afterwards, he tries to build a friendship with him - and starts to fall for our dragon
I truly loved that book, it was sooo sweet, I just wanted to hug Ronan and I’m happy for him.
Also, the family DRAMA was just epic !! And poor Gideon 🤣
I received an ARC Copy of this book from the author, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
February 3, 2024
Ronan + Zachary
•A dragon 🐉 and a demon 😈
•Both have a job they did not ask for but feel duty-bound
•A rough start to their relationship as they appear to hate each other
•Meddling friends and family members
•A several millennia virgin
•A dragon without a hoard, or so he thought
•Baking as a hobby
Loved this last installment in the Demon-in-law series.
•A dragon 🐉 and a demon 😈
•Both have a job they did not ask for but feel duty-bound
•A rough start to their relationship as they appear to hate each other
•Meddling friends and family members
•A several millennia virgin
•A dragon without a hoard, or so he thought
•Baking as a hobby
Loved this last installment in the Demon-in-law series.
August 21, 2024
4.5 stars
I think this book is the most low-key, low angst story in this entire universe. I was so happy to finally get Ronan's story. It definitely felt like his personal journey was left very open-ended at the end of A Conspiracy Of Dragons. He so deserves his own happy ending. I loved getting to see more of the dragon shenanigans in their group chat. It definitely made me chuckle. I enjoyed seeing Ronan and Zac's relationship grow and develop. It was pretty adorable at times. Zac became so protective of Ronan, and I absolutely loved how respectful Zac was of Ronan's boundaries. We love consent over here. This was definitely a slow burn of sorts, and I really loved that for them. I absolutely LOVED when Ronan went all scary dragon on grandma for Zac. I wanted to cheer him on in that moment. I do wish we got to see a little more of the relationship development on page instead of being told after some of the small time jumps, but that said, this was still thoroughly enjoyable. This series has been so much fun, and I have loved getting to continue to experience this universe. It's silly and fun, and it's what I needed.
I think this book is the most low-key, low angst story in this entire universe. I was so happy to finally get Ronan's story. It definitely felt like his personal journey was left very open-ended at the end of A Conspiracy Of Dragons. He so deserves his own happy ending. I loved getting to see more of the dragon shenanigans in their group chat. It definitely made me chuckle. I enjoyed seeing Ronan and Zac's relationship grow and develop. It was pretty adorable at times. Zac became so protective of Ronan, and I absolutely loved how respectful Zac was of Ronan's boundaries. We love consent over here. This was definitely a slow burn of sorts, and I really loved that for them. I absolutely LOVED when Ronan went all scary dragon on grandma for Zac. I wanted to cheer him on in that moment. I do wish we got to see a little more of the relationship development on page instead of being told after some of the small time jumps, but that said, this was still thoroughly enjoyable. This series has been so much fun, and I have loved getting to continue to experience this universe. It's silly and fun, and it's what I needed.
January 23, 2024
This is the 3rd and final in the Demons-In-Law series and I'm happy we got to know these cousins.
As mentioned previously, DIL is a spin off from the author's Hidden Species and Here Be Dragons series. It's not necessary to read the other series, but I would highly recommend that you do, especially as we met Ronan in Conspiracy of Dragons HBD bk4, and his backstory makes this book even more special.
After a grumpy start, Zachary and Ronan decide to put in the effort into becoming cordial and what develops is a beautiful friendship. Their relationship took a while to blossom, almost to the end of the book, but I wasn't sad about that.
Ronan's personal growth as he learnt to accept his past and put 100% into the future made him a very lovable character.
This book is full of shenanigans and fun group texting. It's a heartfelt story and a great addition to the series.
Highly recommend this series and the author's Hidden Species and Here Be Dragons.
As mentioned previously, DIL is a spin off from the author's Hidden Species and Here Be Dragons series. It's not necessary to read the other series, but I would highly recommend that you do, especially as we met Ronan in Conspiracy of Dragons HBD bk4, and his backstory makes this book even more special.
After a grumpy start, Zachary and Ronan decide to put in the effort into becoming cordial and what develops is a beautiful friendship. Their relationship took a while to blossom, almost to the end of the book, but I wasn't sad about that.
Ronan's personal growth as he learnt to accept his past and put 100% into the future made him a very lovable character.
This book is full of shenanigans and fun group texting. It's a heartfelt story and a great addition to the series.
Highly recommend this series and the author's Hidden Species and Here Be Dragons.
February 1, 2024
3.5 stars.
The story here, for me, was a lot about healing.
Both Ronan and Zac have unresolved feelings that they work through here. This part, I really enjoyed, and I shed a tear whenever they stood up for themselves and knocked down another wall.
What I did not like as much was the frequent time jumps in the beginning and the quick enemies-to-lovers arch. I was happy to see both characters get their happiness, but I am not quite sure I enjoyed that their healing came from each other.
I know that this is a romance, so of course it had to be part of the book, I just also think Ronan's story especially was strong enough to stand alone.
The story here, for me, was a lot about healing.
Both Ronan and Zac have unresolved feelings that they work through here. This part, I really enjoyed, and I shed a tear whenever they stood up for themselves and knocked down another wall.
What I did not like as much was the frequent time jumps in the beginning and the quick enemies-to-lovers arch. I was happy to see both characters get their happiness, but I am not quite sure I enjoyed that their healing came from each other.
I know that this is a romance, so of course it had to be part of the book, I just also think Ronan's story especially was strong enough to stand alone.
February 4, 2024
Loved this last book in the series. Especially liked the Ro Ro Ro Group. Gave me alot of smiles along the way.
Glad that Zac and Ronan took it slow and that there wasn't alot of sex in this book. Its so nice to have a story. Also nice to see Ronan making friends in the village and preparing for a life there.
Glad that Zac and Ronan took it slow and that there wasn't alot of sex in this book. Its so nice to have a story. Also nice to see Ronan making friends in the village and preparing for a life there.
February 4, 2024
More of a 3,5, but I'm rounding up since this entire universe is so much fun. And I did love this one as well, but I didn't feel all that much chemistry between Zach and Ronan.
So many emotions about Ronan and his journey finding friends, bless him.
So many emotions about Ronan and his journey finding friends, bless him.
November 15, 2025
This story was kind of all over the place but it was fun to see Ronan find a place for himself and a special someone in Zac. This book was everything I've come to expect from a Louisa Masters book! I laughed, I cried, I squeed, and I feel a little in love with our dynamic duo.
August 9, 2024
4.25 stars
I liked both of these guys more than I liked either of them in the previous book, but I'm kinda glad I'm done with the series now.
I liked both of these guys more than I liked either of them in the previous book, but I'm kinda glad I'm done with the series now.
February 10, 2024
Sweet story about finding yourself and standing up for what you believe in.
I absolutely loved watching Ronan bloom into a healthy, happy dragon and Zac having a few epiphanies himself.
I was mildly disappointed that so little detail was given on what was found in the vault - although the detail isn't important to Zac and Ronan's story, such a big deal is made of finding out what's behind the doors that it felt a little underwhelming.
I absolutely loved watching Ronan bloom into a healthy, happy dragon and Zac having a few epiphanies himself.
I was mildly disappointed that so little detail was given on what was found in the vault - although the detail isn't important to Zac and Ronan's story, such a big deal is made of finding out what's behind the doors that it felt a little underwhelming.
February 4, 2024
(3,5 stars rated up) 'Zachary' is the third and last installment in the 'Demons-In-Law' series, a spin-off of the 'Hidden Species' series. It centers around Gideon's demon cousins living in Hortplatz, a remote town in the Swiss Alps, almost exclusively populated by demons due to its location, hardly accessible to any other species because of heavy snowfall for almost half of every year.
At the beginning of the story, Zachary is the last one among his cousins without a partner. He works as an (unpaid) ranger, keeping track of local flora and fauna, training everyone in wilderness safety, leading search and rescue teams, and volunteering in the local fire department. His big dream is to build a ski resort that would attract other species to visit and maybe even settle in Hortplatz. After his grandmother refuses to listen to Zachary's idea, he takes out his bad mood on Ronan, a dragon liaison sent to Hortplatz to identify and catalog the contents of the recently discovered (book one) and opened (book two) vault containing historically valuable dragon hoard.
We first met Ronan in 'Conspiracy of Dragons', the fourth and last installment of the 'Here Be Dragons' series (another spin-off of the 'Hidden Species' series). In that series, it was discovered that Ronan The plot of Zachary takes place five years after Ronan's appearance . Ronan still struggles with his dragon identity and, as such, feels insecure about being the one responsible for cataloging a dragon hoard. His behavior doesn't make him very well-liked in town, but after Garrett calls him out on it, he makes an effort to be more sociable.
Ronan and Zachary's acquaintance starts off on the wrong foot due to the fact that both of them are struggling with their own issues. After Zachary apologizes for his behavior, they form a tentative friendship that grows into something more after Ronan .
I was really looking forward to 'Zachary' because I wanted more of Ronan's story after finishing 'Conspiracy of Dragons'. At that time, I had very little hope for it, as 'Conspiracy of Dragons' was the last book in the series, and I didn't expect Ronan would be one of the characters in the 'Demons-In-Law' series, which I'm not sure was even announced at that time. As I got further into the 'Demons-In-Law' series and the dragon aspect was introduced, and the overall series plot took shape, the more hopeful I was about seeing Ronan again. I was so happy to learn that the author decided to give us Ronan's own story, and I will admit that his (and Steffen's) character journey was the main reason why I enjoyed 'Zachary' as much as I did. While I really enjoyed witnessing Ronan making friends with Zoe, Garrett, and Cam and for the most part found the development of his romance with Zachary enjoyable as well, I found the rest of the story was somewhat lacking.
The dragon vault storyline felt like an afterthought. Considering it was the focal point of the entire series, having it reduced to little more than an excuse to get Ronan to Hortplatz and together with Zachary felt like a letdown. I expected to see more of Ronan cataloging various interesting artifacts aside from only being told of him making various notes and "uploading it to the Cloud." I also kind of expected that there would be more to the story and that it would be revealed The ski resort storyline stole the little focus there was away from the dragon hoard, but even that I found underdeveloped, as Zachary's grandmother's motives for shooting down his idea made very little sense when they were revealed in the end.
None of my above issues with the story come as much of a surprise, considering this author's books then to be more character driven while the actual plot development takes a secondary place. Since I do enjoy the worlds and characters they create, I can still see myself reading more from them in the future.
Themes: dual POV, dragon/demon, animosity, small towns, virginity
At the beginning of the story, Zachary is the last one among his cousins without a partner. He works as an (unpaid) ranger, keeping track of local flora and fauna, training everyone in wilderness safety, leading search and rescue teams, and volunteering in the local fire department. His big dream is to build a ski resort that would attract other species to visit and maybe even settle in Hortplatz. After his grandmother refuses to listen to Zachary's idea, he takes out his bad mood on Ronan, a dragon liaison sent to Hortplatz to identify and catalog the contents of the recently discovered (book one) and opened (book two) vault containing historically valuable dragon hoard.
We first met Ronan in 'Conspiracy of Dragons', the fourth and last installment of the 'Here Be Dragons' series (another spin-off of the 'Hidden Species' series). In that series, it was discovered that Ronan The plot of Zachary takes place five years after Ronan's appearance . Ronan still struggles with his dragon identity and, as such, feels insecure about being the one responsible for cataloging a dragon hoard. His behavior doesn't make him very well-liked in town, but after Garrett calls him out on it, he makes an effort to be more sociable.
Ronan and Zachary's acquaintance starts off on the wrong foot due to the fact that both of them are struggling with their own issues. After Zachary apologizes for his behavior, they form a tentative friendship that grows into something more after Ronan .
I was really looking forward to 'Zachary' because I wanted more of Ronan's story after finishing 'Conspiracy of Dragons'. At that time, I had very little hope for it, as 'Conspiracy of Dragons' was the last book in the series, and I didn't expect Ronan would be one of the characters in the 'Demons-In-Law' series, which I'm not sure was even announced at that time. As I got further into the 'Demons-In-Law' series and the dragon aspect was introduced, and the overall series plot took shape, the more hopeful I was about seeing Ronan again. I was so happy to learn that the author decided to give us Ronan's own story, and I will admit that his (and Steffen's) character journey was the main reason why I enjoyed 'Zachary' as much as I did. While I really enjoyed witnessing Ronan making friends with Zoe, Garrett, and Cam and for the most part found the development of his romance with Zachary enjoyable as well, I found the rest of the story was somewhat lacking.
The dragon vault storyline felt like an afterthought. Considering it was the focal point of the entire series, having it reduced to little more than an excuse to get Ronan to Hortplatz and together with Zachary felt like a letdown. I expected to see more of Ronan cataloging various interesting artifacts aside from only being told of him making various notes and "uploading it to the Cloud." I also kind of expected that there would be more to the story and that it would be revealed The ski resort storyline stole the little focus there was away from the dragon hoard, but even that I found underdeveloped, as Zachary's grandmother's motives for shooting down his idea made very little sense when they were revealed in the end.
None of my above issues with the story come as much of a surprise, considering this author's books then to be more character driven while the actual plot development takes a secondary place. Since I do enjoy the worlds and characters they create, I can still see myself reading more from them in the future.
Themes: dual POV, dragon/demon, animosity, small towns, virginity
February 3, 2024
a wonderful, heartfelt conclusion to a terrific trilogy
Rating: 5🌈
With Zachary, the wonderful Demons-In-Law trilogy comes to a heartwarming conclusion and for me, it’s way too early for this series to end.
I feel like we are just getting to know the extraordinary mountain enclosed village of Hortplatz, the most demon inhabitants, and run by an imperious demon grandmother who’s a remarkable figure. Plus we barely explored the mysterious dragon hoard , hidden behind a 12,000 ish year old puzzle door, that had been built into the mountain above the village by a long ago dragon, and it now the scientific find of the world. Oh, Hortplatz, we hardly knew you!
Masters finishes with the heartbreak couple. Ronan Draco, Steffen’s twin brother, who is burdened by their horrific past, and his self inflicted “prison” of guilt, doubts, and inability to connect with others. Ronan is selected by Brandt to catalog the items and help identify them as them come out of the vault. It’s terrifying to him.
On the other side, there’s Zachary, grandson to the formidable grandmother ,Damaris Bailey , who rules the family, town Council and everyone else with a steely voice and gaze to match. Zachary is the town’s forester, well, go to demon, depending on the job, despite having his own hopes and dreams. He’s continually sacrificed for the sake of the family and the community, letting family obligations and responsibilities become an invisible prison for himself. Until the bitterness is threatening to swallow him.
This is the setup that Masters introduces the reader to the situation and these haunted beings to each other. It is not a meet cute.
But the journey to redemption and love for both is a fabulous and heartwarming story to read. Ronan’s as he realizes his need to connect with the Hortplatz community and learn how to make friends. That’s a truly remarkable, funny, and joyful stumbling path he had to take, one that included pastries, group text sessions, and a box from the World of Wangs makes an important appearance. Ronan finds he can become part of a community, have a home, with a loving partner, leaving the past behind.
And Zachary? In Ronan, he finds someone to stand with him, support his passions, explore new experiences, even if it means staying in Hortplatz. For now.
Masters doesn’t forget Damaris, the stern, unyielding grandmother, whose actions and character become fully revealed in a wonderful, memorable scene.
So many great characters are brought in to help Ronan and Zachary achieve their dreams and HEA, from Steffen to all the many demon cousins and their families.
As I said, three books is barely breaking the surface of this village’s stories and what the future now holds for them.
It’s my wish that Masters might come up with another series that will find its way back into this world and town , so we can get an update on everyone there and the new couples to arrive.
In the meantime, I’m highly recommending this series and book. It’s fantastic and a grand bit of fantasy!
Demons-In-Law:
- [x] Asher #1
- [x] Micah #2
- [x] Zachary #3
Rating: 5🌈
With Zachary, the wonderful Demons-In-Law trilogy comes to a heartwarming conclusion and for me, it’s way too early for this series to end.
I feel like we are just getting to know the extraordinary mountain enclosed village of Hortplatz, the most demon inhabitants, and run by an imperious demon grandmother who’s a remarkable figure. Plus we barely explored the mysterious dragon hoard , hidden behind a 12,000 ish year old puzzle door, that had been built into the mountain above the village by a long ago dragon, and it now the scientific find of the world. Oh, Hortplatz, we hardly knew you!
Masters finishes with the heartbreak couple. Ronan Draco, Steffen’s twin brother, who is burdened by their horrific past, and his self inflicted “prison” of guilt, doubts, and inability to connect with others. Ronan is selected by Brandt to catalog the items and help identify them as them come out of the vault. It’s terrifying to him.
On the other side, there’s Zachary, grandson to the formidable grandmother ,Damaris Bailey , who rules the family, town Council and everyone else with a steely voice and gaze to match. Zachary is the town’s forester, well, go to demon, depending on the job, despite having his own hopes and dreams. He’s continually sacrificed for the sake of the family and the community, letting family obligations and responsibilities become an invisible prison for himself. Until the bitterness is threatening to swallow him.
This is the setup that Masters introduces the reader to the situation and these haunted beings to each other. It is not a meet cute.
But the journey to redemption and love for both is a fabulous and heartwarming story to read. Ronan’s as he realizes his need to connect with the Hortplatz community and learn how to make friends. That’s a truly remarkable, funny, and joyful stumbling path he had to take, one that included pastries, group text sessions, and a box from the World of Wangs makes an important appearance. Ronan finds he can become part of a community, have a home, with a loving partner, leaving the past behind.
And Zachary? In Ronan, he finds someone to stand with him, support his passions, explore new experiences, even if it means staying in Hortplatz. For now.
Masters doesn’t forget Damaris, the stern, unyielding grandmother, whose actions and character become fully revealed in a wonderful, memorable scene.
So many great characters are brought in to help Ronan and Zachary achieve their dreams and HEA, from Steffen to all the many demon cousins and their families.
As I said, three books is barely breaking the surface of this village’s stories and what the future now holds for them.
It’s my wish that Masters might come up with another series that will find its way back into this world and town , so we can get an update on everyone there and the new couples to arrive.
In the meantime, I’m highly recommending this series and book. It’s fantastic and a grand bit of fantasy!
Demons-In-Law:
- [x] Asher #1
- [x] Micah #2
- [x] Zachary #3
August 9, 2025
Here is Louisa Master's "Zachary." It's the third novel in her Demons-In-Law series, which is a Hidden Species spin-off
["A dragon with endless secrets meets a demon with nothing to hide…
I’m the easygoing one. The fun one. The rare member of my family who gets along with anyone. Except there’s a chance I may have got off on the wrong foot with our new dragon liaison, Ronan. In my defense, he rubs everyone the wrong way. The only thing he’s got going for him is his looks… if the miserable frown weren’t there to mar them. But he seems to be trying harder to connect, and I guess I should do the same. Even if his arrival here was the beginning of all my problems.
When I cross the line and guilt compels me to apologize, I get my first glimpse of a different Ronan. Someone who enjoys baking, thinks glitter is amazing, and wants people to like him. Someone I could be friends with. And when that frown disappears? I want more than just friendship.
But there’s something going on with him, something he’s been carrying for a long time. He’s been hurt before, and the secrets he’s keeping are the kind that eat you inside. How can we take things to the next step if he can’t be open with me?
It’s only when he steps up to make all my dreams come true that I realize some secrets need to stay that way… and that loving Ronan means accepting him for who he really is."]
I was very not prepared for this to be enemies to lovers when it was previewed in the last book. It hurt my heart (mostly to see kind and good-natured Zac be a dick to our traumatized (and clearly still Healing) Ronan). Though Zac had his reasons for being in a horrible mood, just maybe not so much on taking it out on others.
But they healed together. They wanted ot make the other smile and laugh so much so that they healed themselves. They faced their fears, they got help from friends (and enemies), and they took chances. They were so adorable!
Also, this book made me tear up a looot. A lot a lot. And full-on-cry a few times. All of the trauma and moments of grief. All of the kindness and moments of open support. All of love and moments of pure happiness. Ronan deserves all of it and more (oh, and Zac, too).
Trigger Warnings: anxiety, self-loathing, guilt, ptsd, past-torture, violence, past-brainwashing, trauma, family trying to help but it coming out toxic, and more
#reunion #asher #micah #zachary #louisamasters #demonsinlaw #demonsinlawseries #herebedragons #herebedragonsseries #hiddenspecies #hiddenspeciesseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["A dragon with endless secrets meets a demon with nothing to hide…
I’m the easygoing one. The fun one. The rare member of my family who gets along with anyone. Except there’s a chance I may have got off on the wrong foot with our new dragon liaison, Ronan. In my defense, he rubs everyone the wrong way. The only thing he’s got going for him is his looks… if the miserable frown weren’t there to mar them. But he seems to be trying harder to connect, and I guess I should do the same. Even if his arrival here was the beginning of all my problems.
When I cross the line and guilt compels me to apologize, I get my first glimpse of a different Ronan. Someone who enjoys baking, thinks glitter is amazing, and wants people to like him. Someone I could be friends with. And when that frown disappears? I want more than just friendship.
But there’s something going on with him, something he’s been carrying for a long time. He’s been hurt before, and the secrets he’s keeping are the kind that eat you inside. How can we take things to the next step if he can’t be open with me?
It’s only when he steps up to make all my dreams come true that I realize some secrets need to stay that way… and that loving Ronan means accepting him for who he really is."]
I was very not prepared for this to be enemies to lovers when it was previewed in the last book. It hurt my heart (mostly to see kind and good-natured Zac be a dick to our traumatized (and clearly still Healing) Ronan). Though Zac had his reasons for being in a horrible mood, just maybe not so much on taking it out on others.
But they healed together. They wanted ot make the other smile and laugh so much so that they healed themselves. They faced their fears, they got help from friends (and enemies), and they took chances. They were so adorable!
Also, this book made me tear up a looot. A lot a lot. And full-on-cry a few times. All of the trauma and moments of grief. All of the kindness and moments of open support. All of love and moments of pure happiness. Ronan deserves all of it and more (oh, and Zac, too).
Trigger Warnings: anxiety, self-loathing, guilt, ptsd, past-torture, violence, past-brainwashing, trauma, family trying to help but it coming out toxic, and more
#reunion #asher #micah #zachary #louisamasters #demonsinlaw #demonsinlawseries #herebedragons #herebedragonsseries #hiddenspecies #hiddenspeciesseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
July 23, 2025
We met Ronan in the last book of the Here Be Dragons series. We know him as Steffan's long-lost twin brother who survived extreme trauma - not quite the same trauma that Steffan survived, but at the hands of the same beings.
Now, years later, he's still working through his trauma, what it means to be a survivor, and what being a dragon feels like to him. As he's still working through these things, he is thrown head-first by Brandt into a whole new project - cataloguing and archiving the items that have been discovered in a long-lost dragon hoard in a demon community deep in the Swiss Alps.
Ronan is uncomfortable, but he's doing his best. If only the demon tasked with assisting his transport to and from the hoard weren't quite so hostile.
Zac has always put his duty to his family and his community above all else. But when he suddenly asks for something of his own - his own dream to work toward - his terrifying grandmother, Damaris, puts her foot down. And Zac stews.
But as he gets to know Ronan more, and the two become closer, they both learn new things about themselves, and each other. They both learn that they can rely on their friends and family for support when needed, and that they can absolutely rely on each other.
This romance was a bit of a slower burn, but I really enjoyed that. Ronan and Zac both needed the time and space to figure more of themselves out before they could comfortably start a relationship with each other that was deeper and more meaningful than friendship. And I loved seeing that develop slowly, even as they hit some roadblocks and misunderstandings.
And the best part - the absolutely best part for me - was the cousins finally standing up to Damaris and putting her in her rightful place. Finally speaking up about their wants for their futures, and how they hope to contribute to their continued commitment to making their community as inclusive and diverse as possible, given their geographical circumstances.
I really, really enjoyed this trilogy. I had a lot of fun getting to know Asher, Micah, and Zac. I also love seeing different sides of the community of species, seeing how far they've come since the beginning of this inter-connected world. I wasn't ever ready to let go of this world from the beginning. I keep coming back to it for a reason. I'll probably always keep coming back to it, as this universe continues to grow and expand. I'm just unspeakably glad that there seem to be more stories to tell.
Now, years later, he's still working through his trauma, what it means to be a survivor, and what being a dragon feels like to him. As he's still working through these things, he is thrown head-first by Brandt into a whole new project - cataloguing and archiving the items that have been discovered in a long-lost dragon hoard in a demon community deep in the Swiss Alps.
Ronan is uncomfortable, but he's doing his best. If only the demon tasked with assisting his transport to and from the hoard weren't quite so hostile.
Zac has always put his duty to his family and his community above all else. But when he suddenly asks for something of his own - his own dream to work toward - his terrifying grandmother, Damaris, puts her foot down. And Zac stews.
But as he gets to know Ronan more, and the two become closer, they both learn new things about themselves, and each other. They both learn that they can rely on their friends and family for support when needed, and that they can absolutely rely on each other.
This romance was a bit of a slower burn, but I really enjoyed that. Ronan and Zac both needed the time and space to figure more of themselves out before they could comfortably start a relationship with each other that was deeper and more meaningful than friendship. And I loved seeing that develop slowly, even as they hit some roadblocks and misunderstandings.
And the best part - the absolutely best part for me - was the cousins finally standing up to Damaris and putting her in her rightful place. Finally speaking up about their wants for their futures, and how they hope to contribute to their continued commitment to making their community as inclusive and diverse as possible, given their geographical circumstances.
I really, really enjoyed this trilogy. I had a lot of fun getting to know Asher, Micah, and Zac. I also love seeing different sides of the community of species, seeing how far they've come since the beginning of this inter-connected world. I wasn't ever ready to let go of this world from the beginning. I keep coming back to it for a reason. I'll probably always keep coming back to it, as this universe continues to grow and expand. I'm just unspeakably glad that there seem to be more stories to tell.
July 30, 2025
4.5 rounding up
Despite the title, this was, I think, mostly a book about Ronan, and he's an amazing character. Obviously, Zach as the other MC was as important. Okay I take it back. It was about both of them. But the complexity and tragedy of Ronan's background, his lack of confidence, of a sense of belonging, of feeling legitimate as a dragon, and his social awkwardness—he had so many hurdles, and watching him transform was beautiful. His journey to a sense of belonging, both in the community of dragons and the community at...I have no idea how to spell the name of the town, because I listened to the book. The town in the Swiss Alps. Not to mention his decision to own not only his dragon daring and sense of fun, but also the steely power of will that he earned the hard way over his millennia of life. There was also some very touching growth in his relationship with Steffen. Oh - and his best friend, Zoey, who took him under her wing, was an awesome character!
Okay, Zachary: He also had a powerful journey. After living under his grandmother's tyrannical thumb his whole long life, being voluntold to serve his community, working overtime for no pay, and finally after having his dream perfunctorily and heartlessly shot down by the steely matriarch—Zach found an unexpected ally. An ally who helped him and his family see more clearly that she wasn't omnipotent, and more important, that she didn't have the right to rule their lives. This ally helped Zach, and the rest of his family, stand up to his grandmother. And damn, wasn't that satisfying!
Asher, Garret, Micah and Cam were involved, and to a lesser extent (but no less fun!) Gideon, Alastair, and the "bro's." The appearances by the CSG characters were hilarious, frequently adding delightful levity to some more serious times.
The epilogue wrapped up the series - and to some degree the Dragon series as well - with heartwarming completeness. There are HEAs all over the place, and a bright future for all.
And I'm sad it's over. I've really grown to love some of these characters. But I can read all three series again, and I definitely will!
Audiobook: Joel Leslie continues to shine. I could do with his MC voices being a bit deeper and perhaps a bit lighter on the accents, but overall he's superb. I listened on Hoopla.
Despite the title, this was, I think, mostly a book about Ronan, and he's an amazing character. Obviously, Zach as the other MC was as important. Okay I take it back. It was about both of them. But the complexity and tragedy of Ronan's background, his lack of confidence, of a sense of belonging, of feeling legitimate as a dragon, and his social awkwardness—he had so many hurdles, and watching him transform was beautiful. His journey to a sense of belonging, both in the community of dragons and the community at...I have no idea how to spell the name of the town, because I listened to the book. The town in the Swiss Alps. Not to mention his decision to own not only his dragon daring and sense of fun, but also the steely power of will that he earned the hard way over his millennia of life. There was also some very touching growth in his relationship with Steffen. Oh - and his best friend, Zoey, who took him under her wing, was an awesome character!
Okay, Zachary: He also had a powerful journey. After living under his grandmother's tyrannical thumb his whole long life, being voluntold to serve his community, working overtime for no pay, and finally after having his dream perfunctorily and heartlessly shot down by the steely matriarch—Zach found an unexpected ally. An ally who helped him and his family see more clearly that she wasn't omnipotent, and more important, that she didn't have the right to rule their lives. This ally helped Zach, and the rest of his family, stand up to his grandmother. And damn, wasn't that satisfying!
Asher, Garret, Micah and Cam were involved, and to a lesser extent (but no less fun!) Gideon, Alastair, and the "bro's." The appearances by the CSG characters were hilarious, frequently adding delightful levity to some more serious times.
The epilogue wrapped up the series - and to some degree the Dragon series as well - with heartwarming completeness. There are HEAs all over the place, and a bright future for all.
And I'm sad it's over. I've really grown to love some of these characters. But I can read all three series again, and I definitely will!
Audiobook: Joel Leslie continues to shine. I could do with his MC voices being a bit deeper and perhaps a bit lighter on the accents, but overall he's superb. I listened on Hoopla.
February 4, 2024
Comfort Read
I’ll be adding “Zachary” to my ‘comfort reads’ list as soon as I post this review. It’s sweet and funny with just enough spicy to keep things interesting.
The romance is a little hate-turned-love and a little touch-him-and-suffer. It’s got a nice emotional undertone that still allows for levity and Masters’s humor to shine.
Zac is a demon who has always been incredibly loyal to his family, doing everything his grandmother has ever asked of him, and he doesn’t think it’s too much to ask that she listen to him a little in return. She’s always been intimidating and lorded power over her family and her town, but she’s gone too far.
Ronan grew up with evil elves who kept him in a gilded cage. They gave him the illusion of safety and a twisted view of the world. The guilt he carries for almost finishing their work plagues him. He’s a dragon who doesn’t feel like a dragon. The dragon leader has given him forgiveness, but he is struggling to feel like he deserves it.
The two meet as they reach the height of their internal struggles. It causes them to have a lot of problems with each other. However, forced proximity means finding a truce, and that leads to so much more.
The love story here is beautiful. I found myself choked up several times, especially over Ronan’s past. Their chemistry is a slow-burn simmer, both hot and sweet. I look forward to reading this one again in the future when I need a pick-me-up.
It’s possible to read this as a standalone if someone insisted, but it’s not what I’d recommend. A lot of the setup for this book happened in the previous one and all the discussion of “the cave” may not make sense without it. It’s also when we see the tension between Ronan and Zac start.
I swear the series title, “Demons-in-Law” was really just a clever way to call Zac’s grandmother “Satan.” Yes, they’re a type of magical being rather than something from a fiery underworld, but the connotation of the word “demon” is always going to be in the back of readers’ minds. Damaris is as close to a villain as we get in this book, and she is an antagonist, even if her intentions are supposedly good.
I’ll be adding “Zachary” to my ‘comfort reads’ list as soon as I post this review. It’s sweet and funny with just enough spicy to keep things interesting.
The romance is a little hate-turned-love and a little touch-him-and-suffer. It’s got a nice emotional undertone that still allows for levity and Masters’s humor to shine.
Zac is a demon who has always been incredibly loyal to his family, doing everything his grandmother has ever asked of him, and he doesn’t think it’s too much to ask that she listen to him a little in return. She’s always been intimidating and lorded power over her family and her town, but she’s gone too far.
Ronan grew up with evil elves who kept him in a gilded cage. They gave him the illusion of safety and a twisted view of the world. The guilt he carries for almost finishing their work plagues him. He’s a dragon who doesn’t feel like a dragon. The dragon leader has given him forgiveness, but he is struggling to feel like he deserves it.
The two meet as they reach the height of their internal struggles. It causes them to have a lot of problems with each other. However, forced proximity means finding a truce, and that leads to so much more.
The love story here is beautiful. I found myself choked up several times, especially over Ronan’s past. Their chemistry is a slow-burn simmer, both hot and sweet. I look forward to reading this one again in the future when I need a pick-me-up.
It’s possible to read this as a standalone if someone insisted, but it’s not what I’d recommend. A lot of the setup for this book happened in the previous one and all the discussion of “the cave” may not make sense without it. It’s also when we see the tension between Ronan and Zac start.
I swear the series title, “Demons-in-Law” was really just a clever way to call Zac’s grandmother “Satan.” Yes, they’re a type of magical being rather than something from a fiery underworld, but the connotation of the word “demon” is always going to be in the back of readers’ minds. Damaris is as close to a villain as we get in this book, and she is an antagonist, even if her intentions are supposedly good.
January 31, 2024
Zachary is the final book in the Demons-In-Law trilogy and is best enjoyed when read in order as, when we first meet Ronan earlier in the series he appears to be a very different character. His initial butting heads with Zac - they just can't help themselves - is what sets this up to be a great enemies to lovers story.
The family theme obviously runs through this series as it follows the three demon brothers, but it is most important here; family can be destructive as well as healing. So we don't just get the fond/comical interference from Zac’s brothers and the interactions with his other family members, we also see the huge impact family had on Ronan's life. His childhood and upbringing have left him so emotionally scarred he effectively withdrew from society - he's there but no longer knows how to people since his reconnection with his own brother. Both MCs find their voice here, though: Zac is able to eventually take the stand against the harder to handle members of his family he’s itching to take to fulfil an ambition. Ronan, meanwhile, thanks to his innate need to be better - and his growing attraction to Zac - learns to build a circle of friends and ask for help when he needs it…sometimes with very funny results! So he really leans into found family as well as strengthening his relationship with his brother.
A knock-on effect of Ronan’s upbringing and isolation is that he's very old but still innocent, which leads to some very comical moments with his ‘Bro Code’ bros - Alistair is still just the funniest even in the tiniest cameos! That combined with his earnest desire to do the right thing makes him a great complex character…and the perfect foil for Zac, who is the most self-sacrificing of his family. They make a brilliant couple on their slow burn journey to their HEA.
This trilogy has been so entertaining. I've got to say, though, Ronan and Zac are my favourite of the three couples. Their happy ending just feels a bit sweeter after they learn together to put behind them the ways in which they've been previously treated. We have great MCs, a good wrap-up to the overarching storyline, such a sweet slow burn romance, cameos from Gideon, Alistair and some of the dragon family. Considering the setting is so cold the book leaves you with a lovely warm glow. Yes, I'm sad to say goodbye to the demon village of Hortplatz, but we definitely leave on a high note. 4.5*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest opinion.
The family theme obviously runs through this series as it follows the three demon brothers, but it is most important here; family can be destructive as well as healing. So we don't just get the fond/comical interference from Zac’s brothers and the interactions with his other family members, we also see the huge impact family had on Ronan's life. His childhood and upbringing have left him so emotionally scarred he effectively withdrew from society - he's there but no longer knows how to people since his reconnection with his own brother. Both MCs find their voice here, though: Zac is able to eventually take the stand against the harder to handle members of his family he’s itching to take to fulfil an ambition. Ronan, meanwhile, thanks to his innate need to be better - and his growing attraction to Zac - learns to build a circle of friends and ask for help when he needs it…sometimes with very funny results! So he really leans into found family as well as strengthening his relationship with his brother.
A knock-on effect of Ronan’s upbringing and isolation is that he's very old but still innocent, which leads to some very comical moments with his ‘Bro Code’ bros - Alistair is still just the funniest even in the tiniest cameos! That combined with his earnest desire to do the right thing makes him a great complex character…and the perfect foil for Zac, who is the most self-sacrificing of his family. They make a brilliant couple on their slow burn journey to their HEA.
This trilogy has been so entertaining. I've got to say, though, Ronan and Zac are my favourite of the three couples. Their happy ending just feels a bit sweeter after they learn together to put behind them the ways in which they've been previously treated. We have great MCs, a good wrap-up to the overarching storyline, such a sweet slow burn romance, cameos from Gideon, Alistair and some of the dragon family. Considering the setting is so cold the book leaves you with a lovely warm glow. Yes, I'm sad to say goodbye to the demon village of Hortplatz, but we definitely leave on a high note. 4.5*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest opinion.
January 18, 2024
Be still, my little black heart🥺🥲
BUT RONAN AND ZAC THOUGHHHH!
I love this universe. I love the sweet romances, all of the love, the stories, the characters, and the interesting world that’s been built. I love this series, and I’m not okay with it being over.
But there’s something about Ronan and Zac that made me love them the most.
I just want to hug them both. I want to hang out with them and be friends with them and I want to bake with Ronan and hike with Zac… U G H.
This book was also ALL about the romance. It was an extremely slow burn, which made room for the details necessary to wind down the series in a satisfying way and the perfect build up of everything Ronan and Zac could—and should—be. It was OTT cheesy and precious and if you’re looking for angst or h a r d c o r e s m u t, this will not be for you. Manage your expectations and don’t be a brat, because it’s everything it needs to be and nothing else.
And no, I’m not just saying that. I’ve been highly critical of this author, as much as I love them, and I will continue to be whenever I want to. I just happen to be a (forever) 🧌fluff goblin🧌 on my bs ~permanently~, so, you know, it be like this all the time.
The mechanics were fine, with minimal mistakes that I’m sure will be fixed when the final copy goes live. I have nothing to complain about. Just two dudes, getting their HEA that they DEFINITELY deserved.
Also Damaris being Damaris. And some hellhound ✨glitter “magic”✨ for good measure, because OF COURSE THERE’S GLITTER.
5/5. I refuse to accept that this is all over, because I don’t want to. My soul is not okay.
**[I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews (GRR). All opinions, ratings, and reviews are my own.]**
BUT RONAN AND ZAC THOUGHHHH!
I love this universe. I love the sweet romances, all of the love, the stories, the characters, and the interesting world that’s been built. I love this series, and I’m not okay with it being over.
But there’s something about Ronan and Zac that made me love them the most.
I just want to hug them both. I want to hang out with them and be friends with them and I want to bake with Ronan and hike with Zac… U G H.
This book was also ALL about the romance. It was an extremely slow burn, which made room for the details necessary to wind down the series in a satisfying way and the perfect build up of everything Ronan and Zac could—and should—be. It was OTT cheesy and precious and if you’re looking for angst or h a r d c o r e s m u t, this will not be for you. Manage your expectations and don’t be a brat, because it’s everything it needs to be and nothing else.
And no, I’m not just saying that. I’ve been highly critical of this author, as much as I love them, and I will continue to be whenever I want to. I just happen to be a (forever) 🧌fluff goblin🧌 on my bs ~permanently~, so, you know, it be like this all the time.
The mechanics were fine, with minimal mistakes that I’m sure will be fixed when the final copy goes live. I have nothing to complain about. Just two dudes, getting their HEA that they DEFINITELY deserved.
Also Damaris being Damaris. And some hellhound ✨glitter “magic”✨ for good measure, because OF COURSE THERE’S GLITTER.
5/5. I refuse to accept that this is all over, because I don’t want to. My soul is not okay.
**[I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews (GRR). All opinions, ratings, and reviews are my own.]**
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