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Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac #2
Year of the Dragon: (Dark Circus MM Astrology Shifter Romance)
Dragons were never meant to be simple circus attractions.
The Dragon Shifter among the men of the Chinese Zodiac had disappeared without a trace, up until a meddling Rooster Shifter dug up his whereabouts. And Jun Shen, the snake shifter, enforcer of magical tennants, and Advanced Math professor within Graves Academy is obligated to look into the matter. When he meets a man more broken than even the Rabbit Shifter who he... still hasn't entirely gotten over, he finds himself conflicted on where he stands in this realm of fated mates and damaged men.
With a limiter collar supressing his power, Jarek Milan is a prisoner of Avro's dark and magical circus. Through countless escape attempts, the light at the end of the tunnel only seems to grow more distant. But when the circus pitches its tent at Graves Academy, he may finally have the help he needs, in so very many ways.
Set in the same Universe as The Zodiac Werewolf, this is the second book in the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac MM+ Paranormal Romance Series. Readers who love dark carnivals, healing through k!nk, dominant and sinister men who have a soft spot for their mates, and the occasional magical cupcake will love the twisted tale of the Zodiac Shifters of Graves Academy.
While there are many moments of fun and spice, this is still a DARK work of fiction. Please check the author's website for CWs
The Dragon Shifter among the men of the Chinese Zodiac had disappeared without a trace, up until a meddling Rooster Shifter dug up his whereabouts. And Jun Shen, the snake shifter, enforcer of magical tennants, and Advanced Math professor within Graves Academy is obligated to look into the matter. When he meets a man more broken than even the Rabbit Shifter who he... still hasn't entirely gotten over, he finds himself conflicted on where he stands in this realm of fated mates and damaged men.
With a limiter collar supressing his power, Jarek Milan is a prisoner of Avro's dark and magical circus. Through countless escape attempts, the light at the end of the tunnel only seems to grow more distant. But when the circus pitches its tent at Graves Academy, he may finally have the help he needs, in so very many ways.
Set in the same Universe as The Zodiac Werewolf, this is the second book in the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac MM+ Paranormal Romance Series. Readers who love dark carnivals, healing through k!nk, dominant and sinister men who have a soft spot for their mates, and the occasional magical cupcake will love the twisted tale of the Zodiac Shifters of Graves Academy.
While there are many moments of fun and spice, this is still a DARK work of fiction. Please check the author's website for CWs
337 pages, Hardcover
First published November 7, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 8, 2023
I can't believe this is finally out, and what a journey it was! I've always loved dark carnivals and captive stories, and I had a blast dipping into this depraved and hopeless world of wonder.
I wrestled with this book for a while (Thus the reason it took me a whole year to get it out), fighting my desire to write the story I wanted to write versus the expectations of what's more marketable, and I ultimately decided... well, fuck it. The Graves Universe is my passion project, and it's going to play out exactly as the characters need it to, and no other way, even if that steps all over some conventions and formulas.
So that said, if you read the first book and expected this series to be a bunch of clean cut MM pairings with some zodiac lore in the background, I'd like to welcome you officially to my shifterverse, where there are no clean, easy, straightforward relationships among such messy, broken people. From Jun's sadism, Levy's timidity, to Eliot's protectiveness, Jarek's aggression, and Gavin's conniving, I love writing these characters, and I hope you enjoy the continuation of this Zodiac Shifter fantasy soap opera! You're in for a wild ride!
I wrestled with this book for a while (Thus the reason it took me a whole year to get it out), fighting my desire to write the story I wanted to write versus the expectations of what's more marketable, and I ultimately decided... well, fuck it. The Graves Universe is my passion project, and it's going to play out exactly as the characters need it to, and no other way, even if that steps all over some conventions and formulas.
So that said, if you read the first book and expected this series to be a bunch of clean cut MM pairings with some zodiac lore in the background, I'd like to welcome you officially to my shifterverse, where there are no clean, easy, straightforward relationships among such messy, broken people. From Jun's sadism, Levy's timidity, to Eliot's protectiveness, Jarek's aggression, and Gavin's conniving, I love writing these characters, and I hope you enjoy the continuation of this Zodiac Shifter fantasy soap opera! You're in for a wild ride!
November 10, 2023
I just wanted to be free and live a normal life. Maybe wake up to eggs and bacon instead of the threat of whips and chains. Maybe one day, the first face I saw every morning would be a lover instead of a demon. I could have that. I deserved that. Right?
ARC Review~
I loved being back in the world of Zodiac Shifters again but this time the focus was more on Jun, the sexy snake shifter from book 1 and a new character - Jarek, a dragon shifter who has been chained and forced to perform in a circus for years.
Jarek will do anything to escape and once Jun realises where the long lost dragon shifter is he’s there to help. I loved their dynamic and Levy & Eliot’s roles as well.
This book also opens up the idea of Levy being able to have multiple mates due to his hybrid status and I was so excited to see that but wished we had gotten more esp from Eliot’s POV. I’m convinced that Jun will eventually be added to that mix and I’m completely here for it!
ARC Review~
I loved being back in the world of Zodiac Shifters again but this time the focus was more on Jun, the sexy snake shifter from book 1 and a new character - Jarek, a dragon shifter who has been chained and forced to perform in a circus for years.
Jarek will do anything to escape and once Jun realises where the long lost dragon shifter is he’s there to help. I loved their dynamic and Levy & Eliot’s roles as well.
This book also opens up the idea of Levy being able to have multiple mates due to his hybrid status and I was so excited to see that but wished we had gotten more esp from Eliot’s POV. I’m convinced that Jun will eventually be added to that mix and I’m completely here for it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2023
TW: Threatened and actual sexual non-com/rape, physical and sexual abuse. abduction, imprisonment
I enjoyed this second book in the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series, but it definitely has some darker themes, including forced sexual contact, sexual and non-sexual abuse, kidnaping, and imprisonment. The book focuses on the Dragon shifter of the Chinese Zodiac who has been missing in the current generation, because he was tricked and forced into servitude in Avro's magical circus. However, when the circus comes to Graves Academy, the chance for freedom arrives. Although the dragon shifter (Jarek Milan), what I liked most about the book was learning more about Jun Shen, the powerful and seemingly psychotic snake shifter of the zodiac. While he freely admits to enjoying killing people, he has soft spots in his heart, too, and he has been hurt by the fated mate process and by love. This is a story full of pain, emotion, suspense, despair, and hope. I was on the edge of my chair wondering what would happen next and if Avro could be beaten. It was a very satisfying tale overall, though there were definitely some scenes that made me want to look away. There are definitely some hot, sexy times, too, and the ending between Avro and Jarek was highly satisfying. One final thought I have is that someone needs to reign Gavin in. I understand he may be hurt, jealous, and angry, but he needs to be stopped.
The narration was excellent, and really captured all the emotion and suspense of the story.
I received a free copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I enjoyed this second book in the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series, but it definitely has some darker themes, including forced sexual contact, sexual and non-sexual abuse, kidnaping, and imprisonment. The book focuses on the Dragon shifter of the Chinese Zodiac who has been missing in the current generation, because he was tricked and forced into servitude in Avro's magical circus. However, when the circus comes to Graves Academy, the chance for freedom arrives. Although the dragon shifter (Jarek Milan), what I liked most about the book was learning more about Jun Shen, the powerful and seemingly psychotic snake shifter of the zodiac. While he freely admits to enjoying killing people, he has soft spots in his heart, too, and he has been hurt by the fated mate process and by love. This is a story full of pain, emotion, suspense, despair, and hope. I was on the edge of my chair wondering what would happen next and if Avro could be beaten. It was a very satisfying tale overall, though there were definitely some scenes that made me want to look away. There are definitely some hot, sexy times, too, and the ending between Avro and Jarek was highly satisfying. One final thought I have is that someone needs to reign Gavin in. I understand he may be hurt, jealous, and angry, but he needs to be stopped.
The narration was excellent, and really captured all the emotion and suspense of the story.
I received a free copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
November 18, 2023
4.5 stars
This was much, much better than book 1. There was action(so much!), romance, and some fluffy moments despite the darker premise. I read till 60% in one sitting before reluctantly putting it down. I definitely expected the romance to be between Jun and Jarek but it seems like it's going in a spoke-and-wheel direction, which is going to be interesting, and I'm so here for it. More info on zodiac shifters were added in this book, which I appreciate. Plus characters are more developed in this book imo. Bonus points that we get to look more closely at Jun's cunning mind.
Although there was some things that kind of didn't really add up, Nontheless, they were minor enough that it didn't really affect the flow of the story.
I definitely look forward to the next installment of the series, and to see how Jun and Levy and the others' relationships evolve!!
This was much, much better than book 1. There was action(so much!), romance, and some fluffy moments despite the darker premise. I read till 60% in one sitting before reluctantly putting it down. I definitely expected the romance to be between Jun and Jarek but it seems like it's going in a spoke-and-wheel direction, which is going to be interesting, and I'm so here for it. More info on zodiac shifters were added in this book, which I appreciate. Plus characters are more developed in this book imo. Bonus points that we get to look more closely at Jun's cunning mind.
Although there was some things that kind of didn't really add up, Nontheless, they were minor enough that it didn't really affect the flow of the story.
I definitely look forward to the next installment of the series, and to see how Jun and Levy and the others' relationships evolve!!
November 22, 2023
Sigh. I read this book because I had already agreed to ARC read it, but as previously stated in my review of Year of the Rabbit, had I not already committed I would not have done so.
I admit this book was better than Year of the Rabbit. There’s a lot more happenings going on, which made it much more interesting. But the same issues bogged down this story as the last one (for me). I’m literally so tired of hearing about how confused Levy is over Jun. If they’re gonna be a throuple then do it, if he’s gonna break his mate bond to Eliot then do it. I was hoping to not have to see so much of Levy this book, but alas it was not in the stars for me.
This is not the series for me and that’s ok. I don’t think the author is a bad writer by any means.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I admit this book was better than Year of the Rabbit. There’s a lot more happenings going on, which made it much more interesting. But the same issues bogged down this story as the last one (for me). I’m literally so tired of hearing about how confused Levy is over Jun. If they’re gonna be a throuple then do it, if he’s gonna break his mate bond to Eliot then do it. I was hoping to not have to see so much of Levy this book, but alas it was not in the stars for me.
This is not the series for me and that’s ok. I don’t think the author is a bad writer by any means.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2025
Exciting installment! I listened to these first two audiobooks in this series back to back, and wish I didn't have to wait for the third one to come out! I really enjoyed both of them. The plot is interesting and exciting, the narration is good, and my only complaint is that I wish they were a bit longer as they seem to end a bit abruptly once the main pairing of the book finally happens. This is a pet peeve of mine of the romance genre in general though--abrupt endings whenever the main conflict or hinderance is finally resolved, there seems to be a rush to the ending like the final act is completely missing. This book though ended with a surprising discovery, a really exciting flashback, and a not-so-surprising but important confession from one of the main characters. The main characters from the book in the series 'Year of the Rabbit' return in this story--Levy, Eliot, and Jun--and we meet a dragon shifter named Jarek, who is in need of some serious help. It turns out to be quite a wild ride. I hope the wait for the third audiobook is not a long one! The audiobook itself needs some editing though. There were multiple places where sentences and phrases were repeated by the voice actor, as if he was trying out different intonations of the same parts, and both still remained in the final audio file. One more thing: I hope Jarek finds out what happened with Rizz. I am sure there is some vengeance owed there.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2023
This is not a stand alone romance. It is a continuation of the Year of the Rabbit. Jun, Eliot, and Levy find themselves embroiled in trying to break dark magic to save the long lost Dragon. This book is darker than the first with less healing. Definitely pay attention to trigger warnings.
Jarek is a pride filled Dragon who only wanted revenge but ended up captured and put on display. He's suffered years of abuse but still manages to find hope even when he thinks all is lost. Jun is trying to move on from his feelings for Levy while fighting fate. As he helps Larek, a softer side of Jun emerges. Peace isn't easily achieved though... It takes sacrifice and blood.
This book satisfied some things left hanging in book 1 while opening up a whole other can of problems. This series likes cliffhangers. Be prepared. This book did have moments of humor, but overall it was more tense or creepy. So much happens in a short period of time that you never know what's going to happen next. The character development still happens. Relationships still evolve. I enjoyed reading how Levy and Jun are trying to tiptoe around each other. There is more abuse in this book and less spice.
I'm hoping the author pushes through this series because I need to know what happens next! This is my current favorite series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jarek is a pride filled Dragon who only wanted revenge but ended up captured and put on display. He's suffered years of abuse but still manages to find hope even when he thinks all is lost. Jun is trying to move on from his feelings for Levy while fighting fate. As he helps Larek, a softer side of Jun emerges. Peace isn't easily achieved though... It takes sacrifice and blood.
This book satisfied some things left hanging in book 1 while opening up a whole other can of problems. This series likes cliffhangers. Be prepared. This book did have moments of humor, but overall it was more tense or creepy. So much happens in a short period of time that you never know what's going to happen next. The character development still happens. Relationships still evolve. I enjoyed reading how Levy and Jun are trying to tiptoe around each other. There is more abuse in this book and less spice.
I'm hoping the author pushes through this series because I need to know what happens next! This is my current favorite series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 23, 2023
The Dragon’s Twisted Fate
‘Year of the Dragon’ primarily focuses on Jarek, a dragon Zodiac shifter, and Jun, a snake Zodiac shifter. However, Levy from ‘Year of the Rabbit’ still plays a big role, making this book not quite a standalone. Jun, we also met previously. He is the current enforcer of the Chinese Zodiac Shifters and also a math professor. Jarek has spent the last decade imprisoned by a powerful warlock as part of a magical circus.
Jun is intrigued by Jarek, after rescuing him from the circus, and wants to help him in any way he can. Partially with his own brand of healing, and partially by enlisting the help of Levy, whom he is definitely not still interested in, to help remove the collar suppressing Jarek’s ability to shift. Levy, is of course on board to help Jun and Jarek in any way he can, despite being bonded and in love with his fated mate Eliot.
Levy’s status as a half-breed warlock and shifter continues to cause him problems in ‘Year of the Dragon’. The chemistry between Jarek and Jun was more friendly than sizzling. Levy seems to have hotter chemistry with everyone. But there wer definitely plenty of spicy scenes, between a variety of pairings. This book is much darker than ‘Year of Rabbit’, and while the overall plot is wrapped up, the characters are all left on cliff-hangers. I really enjoyed this story and rate it four and a half stars.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
‘Year of the Dragon’ primarily focuses on Jarek, a dragon Zodiac shifter, and Jun, a snake Zodiac shifter. However, Levy from ‘Year of the Rabbit’ still plays a big role, making this book not quite a standalone. Jun, we also met previously. He is the current enforcer of the Chinese Zodiac Shifters and also a math professor. Jarek has spent the last decade imprisoned by a powerful warlock as part of a magical circus.
Jun is intrigued by Jarek, after rescuing him from the circus, and wants to help him in any way he can. Partially with his own brand of healing, and partially by enlisting the help of Levy, whom he is definitely not still interested in, to help remove the collar suppressing Jarek’s ability to shift. Levy, is of course on board to help Jun and Jarek in any way he can, despite being bonded and in love with his fated mate Eliot.
Levy’s status as a half-breed warlock and shifter continues to cause him problems in ‘Year of the Dragon’. The chemistry between Jarek and Jun was more friendly than sizzling. Levy seems to have hotter chemistry with everyone. But there wer definitely plenty of spicy scenes, between a variety of pairings. This book is much darker than ‘Year of Rabbit’, and while the overall plot is wrapped up, the characters are all left on cliff-hangers. I really enjoyed this story and rate it four and a half stars.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
January 20, 2024
MM+, PNR, 1st Rotating POV
Status: KU, Series, Conflict - , Cliffhanger -
Jarek: Dragon Shifter, Alpha, 35 Yrs Old, Tattoo, Scarred, Traumatized, Imprisoned by a Magical Circus, Half Polish, Former Underground Fighter, Gym Rat,
Jun: Snake Shifter, Alpha, Early 40s, College Math Professor, POC (of Asian Descent), Enforcer of Magical Tenants, Has a Sex Dungeon, Trained in Martial Arts, Dom, Top
Levy: Rabbit Shifter, Warlock, Baker at a Magic Bakery, 22 Yrs Old, Beta, POC (Of Asian Descent), College Student (Business), Traumatized, Self Loathing, Fear Kink, Bottom,
Eliot: Dog Shifter, Alpha, 27 Yrs Old, Works at Levy's Bakery, College Student, Math Whiz, Top
Notes: Mythology, Paranormals Out in the Open, Escape Attempts, Wounded Bird, Hurt/Comfort, Sexual Healing, Kink as Therapy, Fated Mates, Mate Bond, Good BDSM Rep, Complicated Relationships
Sex Notes:
CWs:
Status: KU, Series, Conflict - , Cliffhanger -
Jarek: Dragon Shifter, Alpha, 35 Yrs Old, Tattoo, Scarred, Traumatized, Imprisoned by a Magical Circus, Half Polish, Former Underground Fighter, Gym Rat,
Jun: Snake Shifter, Alpha, Early 40s, College Math Professor, POC (of Asian Descent), Enforcer of Magical Tenants, Has a Sex Dungeon, Trained in Martial Arts, Dom, Top
Levy: Rabbit Shifter, Warlock, Baker at a Magic Bakery, 22 Yrs Old, Beta, POC (Of Asian Descent), College Student (Business), Traumatized, Self Loathing, Fear Kink, Bottom,
Eliot: Dog Shifter, Alpha, 27 Yrs Old, Works at Levy's Bakery, College Student, Math Whiz, Top
Notes: Mythology, Paranormals Out in the Open, Escape Attempts, Wounded Bird, Hurt/Comfort, Sexual Healing, Kink as Therapy, Fated Mates, Mate Bond, Good BDSM Rep, Complicated Relationships
Sex Notes:
CWs:
November 16, 2025
“I assumed Haoyu had warned you.”
Finally... book 2 in the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series has made it to audio. Ever since the release of book 1 on Audible I've been anxiously awaiting book 2. The narrator did a great job bringing this book and characters to life. When I saw this audiobook available on Booksprout, I grabbed it up!!!
What a wild ride! I can't say enough about how much I loved this book and the audiobook was fantastic. It's been a while and I loved getting to see Levy, Eliot and Jun again. I could definitely get by without seeing Gavin again. I remember when I first read book 1, I was already jonesing for book 2. Now that this audiobook has been released I'm ready for Anni Lee to write and release book 3.
I'm not going to tell you what the book's about you can read that in the blurb. I will warn you though that you definitely need to read or listen to book one before starting this book, in fact I recommend that you also read the Zodiac Werewolf series before starting this series. There's a lot going on at the Graves Academy and I love this world the author has created.
Reader beware, if you don't like a bit of dark and twisted this one probably isn't for you... but oh how you'll miss out on the ride!
Hurt/comfort, fated mates, bonding through trauma, an evil mage, a treacherous mate, a special bakery with magic treats
Finally... book 2 in the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series has made it to audio. Ever since the release of book 1 on Audible I've been anxiously awaiting book 2. The narrator did a great job bringing this book and characters to life. When I saw this audiobook available on Booksprout, I grabbed it up!!!
What a wild ride! I can't say enough about how much I loved this book and the audiobook was fantastic. It's been a while and I loved getting to see Levy, Eliot and Jun again. I could definitely get by without seeing Gavin again. I remember when I first read book 1, I was already jonesing for book 2. Now that this audiobook has been released I'm ready for Anni Lee to write and release book 3.
I'm not going to tell you what the book's about you can read that in the blurb. I will warn you though that you definitely need to read or listen to book one before starting this book, in fact I recommend that you also read the Zodiac Werewolf series before starting this series. There's a lot going on at the Graves Academy and I love this world the author has created.
Reader beware, if you don't like a bit of dark and twisted this one probably isn't for you... but oh how you'll miss out on the ride!
Hurt/comfort, fated mates, bonding through trauma, an evil mage, a treacherous mate, a special bakery with magic treats
December 4, 2023
Following the events in book 1 year of the rabbit.
This was a great paced story with a range of interesting characters and their relationships and bonds with one another. It features multiple M/M romances, and fated mate bonds amongst shifters (animals and Chinese Zodiac), mages and hybrids.
There's lots of action in this story, insights into characters pasts and motivations, and lots of tension and spice.
The dynamics are intriguing between the zodiac shifters and the mate bonds, and how they feel drawn to others which makes it interesting not knowing how things will end up, and the RH relations.
There was a lot of dark content in this, a macabre and twisted circus, a pyschopathic circus owner, intense trauma, multiple villains, and references to S.A, torture, and violence (so check triggers), but it's also a story about building trust, friendship and love.
This is an ongoing series with multiple narrators and intertwining relationships with lots of twists.
Hoping to read more soon!
This was a great paced story with a range of interesting characters and their relationships and bonds with one another. It features multiple M/M romances, and fated mate bonds amongst shifters (animals and Chinese Zodiac), mages and hybrids.
There's lots of action in this story, insights into characters pasts and motivations, and lots of tension and spice.
The dynamics are intriguing between the zodiac shifters and the mate bonds, and how they feel drawn to others which makes it interesting not knowing how things will end up, and the RH relations.
There was a lot of dark content in this, a macabre and twisted circus, a pyschopathic circus owner, intense trauma, multiple villains, and references to S.A, torture, and violence (so check triggers), but it's also a story about building trust, friendship and love.
This is an ongoing series with multiple narrators and intertwining relationships with lots of twists.
Hoping to read more soon!
December 5, 2023
Jarek is a zodiac dragon and he has been held captive, punished and humiliated for five years. The horrible evil warlock that has Jarek under a locked collar spell takes pleasure in hurting him. Jarek has tried to escape so many times but no punishment. No pain is going to stop him from trying to get away.
Professor Jun the snake shifter is surprised when his mate tells him that a circus is coming to town and it is reported that they have a dragon. But it’s going to take a lot to keep him safe. And Levy is needed to help.Jun.
The tension in this book is literally sitting on the edge. It’s just you are on the edge of a cliff waiting for something to happen. You feel it throughout the book. The butterflies I’m so intrigued with this series because it gets confusing because Levy could have multiple mates that you kind of left thinking when is Jun going to find happiness. Four star because I’m still intrigued where the story is going.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Professor Jun the snake shifter is surprised when his mate tells him that a circus is coming to town and it is reported that they have a dragon. But it’s going to take a lot to keep him safe. And Levy is needed to help.Jun.
The tension in this book is literally sitting on the edge. It’s just you are on the edge of a cliff waiting for something to happen. You feel it throughout the book. The butterflies I’m so intrigued with this series because it gets confusing because Levy could have multiple mates that you kind of left thinking when is Jun going to find happiness. Four star because I’m still intrigued where the story is going.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2023
I have never been happier to scream: I CALLED IT!! I wanted this to be a why choose so bad in book one because the chemistry between Levy and both parties was THICK! Now I just need Elliott to get with program and supportive of this since CLEARLY Levy was destined to have a harem. The vibe between Levy and Jarek was perfect! they understood each other on such an important level that I feel was healing for both of them and i think Jarek fits in well with rest of them as well. And don't even get me started on Jun and Jarek's relationship. They seem to fit very well together*cough, cough*. The thing that really stood out to me though is how Anni really gives Jun, Jarek, and Elliott complimentary yet different reasons for loving and relating to Levy. They each represent something Levy needs and really does become more whole with the love he given from each of them. The innate understanding Jarek and Levy had because of the similar traumas they have been through really hit me in the feels. if you couldn't tell, I loved this read!
*this was an ARC read*
*this was an ARC read*
June 3, 2026
I enjoyed this installment more than the first for some reason. The entire world feels very unique to me. I don’t read a lot of shifter romance, so that might just mean I’m naïve about the genre, but the fact that these are Chinese Zodiac shifters is pretty cool.
I adore both Levy and Jun from book one, but the addition of the dragon shifter in this one quadrupled the "ohhhh" factor for me. He had the tender brokenness of Levy, thanks to a whole lot of trauma, but he also had Jun’s determination and grit, which I thought was a pretty impressive combination of traits.
Hopefully book three arrives soon!
I adore both Levy and Jun from book one, but the addition of the dragon shifter in this one quadrupled the "ohhhh" factor for me. He had the tender brokenness of Levy, thanks to a whole lot of trauma, but he also had Jun’s determination and grit, which I thought was a pretty impressive combination of traits.
Hopefully book three arrives soon!
November 28, 2023
I loved and disliked this book at different times in the story
Honestly I adored parts of this dark story but other parts just confused me and some I just don’t know about. I gave it four stars because I really did enjoy most of it. I guess one of the things that I didn’t like is that it doesn’t really follow the standard romance format and yet I like other books that are far from standard. My biggest complaint would be how open things are left at the end of the book so maybe when more of this series has been written then I will be happier. I’m all in favor of larger stories being a thread throughout books in a series and I like that in these two books that Anni Lee has written so far.
I hope that you can understand what I’m trying to say which probably best boils down to I liked a lot of it but had some reservations. I’m recovering from a certain type of flu virus and I hope I’ve been making sense.
Honestly I adored parts of this dark story but other parts just confused me and some I just don’t know about. I gave it four stars because I really did enjoy most of it. I guess one of the things that I didn’t like is that it doesn’t really follow the standard romance format and yet I like other books that are far from standard. My biggest complaint would be how open things are left at the end of the book so maybe when more of this series has been written then I will be happier. I’m all in favor of larger stories being a thread throughout books in a series and I like that in these two books that Anni Lee has written so far.
I hope that you can understand what I’m trying to say which probably best boils down to I liked a lot of it but had some reservations. I’m recovering from a certain type of flu virus and I hope I’ve been making sense.
Read
November 19, 2023I'll be honest, I didn't remember book 1 being anything super exciting, but I remembered I liked it so read this as well. And either I don't remember book 1 as well as I thought (but there are a lot of little reminders in this book about that story), so this one went much darker.
Although, I'm not overly surprised, since this one center's around the dear professor from book 1. And he wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. We see more of characters we know, we see a really great villain, and some people we don't know well. And keep an eye on that Rooster guy, he's going to be an interesting one.
Let's face it, the circus is always a little macabre, so add in shifters and you can't look away. Lot's of youth trauma in this book, from both our Dragon friend and the Professor. But the end... well, this isn't the couple series you thought it was.
Although, I'm not overly surprised, since this one center's around the dear professor from book 1. And he wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. We see more of characters we know, we see a really great villain, and some people we don't know well. And keep an eye on that Rooster guy, he's going to be an interesting one.
Let's face it, the circus is always a little macabre, so add in shifters and you can't look away. Lot's of youth trauma in this book, from both our Dragon friend and the Professor. But the end... well, this isn't the couple series you thought it was.
November 30, 2023
I’ll be waiting for the next book…
This book added a lot to the overall world that the zodiac shifters are in and I’m excited to learn more about Jun and the other characters.
Why not 5 stars?
I didn’t dissolve into this book like I do with my favourite books, I feel like the story was a bit all over the place and I wasn’t sure who the book was meant to be about as it’s posed to be about the dragon shifter but it got wrapped up in the other characters as well (not necessarily bad just a bit confusing and I feel it could’ve been set up better). There were also quite a few spelling mistake and whole words missing which was okay but threw me off a few times when reading.
🐉 Zodiac shifters
🐉 Dark
🐉 Hurt/comfort
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book added a lot to the overall world that the zodiac shifters are in and I’m excited to learn more about Jun and the other characters.
Why not 5 stars?
I didn’t dissolve into this book like I do with my favourite books, I feel like the story was a bit all over the place and I wasn’t sure who the book was meant to be about as it’s posed to be about the dragon shifter but it got wrapped up in the other characters as well (not necessarily bad just a bit confusing and I feel it could’ve been set up better). There were also quite a few spelling mistake and whole words missing which was okay but threw me off a few times when reading.
🐉 Zodiac shifters
🐉 Dark
🐉 Hurt/comfort
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 19, 2025
3.5 rounding up for the narrator! Bret Mykel really did a fantastic job again articulating the MCs (Jun, Levy, Eliot, Jarek), especially Jarek! Each of the MCs has a distinct voice and personality - I thought there were multiple narrators at times! He came through with all the emotions and the spicy times were quite HOT. As with the previous book, we are still following along the half-shifter/half-wizard Levy and while he has his fated mate, he still has emotions for another. The previous book was MM+ and this one is as well. The spice includes scenes with a variety of match=ups with the participants. This book seemed a touch darker than the first in terms of themes. Also an enjoyable read. I do recommend reading the first book in this series as I don't think this is easily understood without it. Ends on a mild cliffhanger.
January 31, 2026
So you are telling me that I definitely should read the first book because there is a lot of lore here, but I could also just not do that, listen to the recap, understand nothing and continue to listen to the second book instead? Oh baby, you know which one of those I'm choosing.
Umm so, it feels mean to say anything negative about this book, I never gave it a fair chance--I just wanted something to not pay attention to while I did something else. It was pretty dramatic, slightly ridiculous, which I appreciated (I might have started hyperventilating in stunned befuddlement a few times). It also seems (?) to be a poly kind of thing which is just not for me. So I'll just give it a "it was fine" 2 stars and move on.
Umm so, it feels mean to say anything negative about this book, I never gave it a fair chance--I just wanted something to not pay attention to while I did something else. It was pretty dramatic, slightly ridiculous, which I appreciated (I might have started hyperventilating in stunned befuddlement a few times). It also seems (?) to be a poly kind of thing which is just not for me. So I'll just give it a "it was fine" 2 stars and move on.
November 7, 2023
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. This book is packed with emotion, the book about finding the Chinese zodiac dragon but you get to see more of the layered Jun..
Held in captivity Jarek was bound to the eviliest mages. Unable to escape due to the limiter on his dragon.
Given a clue by none other then Gavin,that a dragon shifter was held in a circus, Jun and Levy venture out to check on if its the truth. What new tricks was that blasted rooster up to by giving a helping hand at freeing Jarek. Bringing Levy in to to help was a risk, but it would take a softer side to help with the trauma that Jarek has suffered at Avro dark deeds.
Held in captivity Jarek was bound to the eviliest mages. Unable to escape due to the limiter on his dragon.
Given a clue by none other then Gavin,that a dragon shifter was held in a circus, Jun and Levy venture out to check on if its the truth. What new tricks was that blasted rooster up to by giving a helping hand at freeing Jarek. Bringing Levy in to to help was a risk, but it would take a softer side to help with the trauma that Jarek has suffered at Avro dark deeds.
November 14, 2023
This book is packed with emotion, the book about finding the Chinese zodiac dragon but you get to see more of the layered Jun..
Held in captivity Jarek was bound to the eviliest mages. Unable to escape due to the limiter on his dragon.
Given a clue by none other then Gavin(Jun’s fated mate) that a dragon shifter was held in a circus, Jun and Levy venture out to check on if its the truth. What new tricks was that blasted rooster up to by giving a helping hand at freeing Jarek. Bringing Levy in to to help was a risk, but it would take a softer side to help with the trauma that Jarek has suffered at Avro dark deeds.
Held in captivity Jarek was bound to the eviliest mages. Unable to escape due to the limiter on his dragon.
Given a clue by none other then Gavin(Jun’s fated mate) that a dragon shifter was held in a circus, Jun and Levy venture out to check on if its the truth. What new tricks was that blasted rooster up to by giving a helping hand at freeing Jarek. Bringing Levy in to to help was a risk, but it would take a softer side to help with the trauma that Jarek has suffered at Avro dark deeds.
December 5, 2023
I've waited for this book for so long and it didn't disappoint. I think that this book is so far my fave that Anni Lee has written. I loved getting more on the shifter zodiac's and getting more into Jun's head and how his mind works. I loved that the book kept me on my toes and that when I thought I knew where it was going that I'd be surprised. It's a lot darker than other books in this universe that I've read, but I think that's a lot of what attracted me to this series and especially this book in particular. Looking forward to the next installment to get more of these relationships and see how dark it really can go.
December 1, 2025
Jared, Juno and Levy story was impactful with a lot of surprises, unexpected turns of the events, revenge, betrayal, jealousy, and a lot of suffering caused by an unscrupulous being.
This one is more violent then the first book, has more danger and adrenaline, and an unexpected development that shakes foundations and also a longing that is still suppressed.
I enjoyed the narrator voice and input, but it had some small hiccups that were concerning.
My heart still bleeds for the one that is still apart and is struggling with his feelings, as well as the hand that was given by fate and hope he’ll find happiness.
I liked the story and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
This one is more violent then the first book, has more danger and adrenaline, and an unexpected development that shakes foundations and also a longing that is still suppressed.
I enjoyed the narrator voice and input, but it had some small hiccups that were concerning.
My heart still bleeds for the one that is still apart and is struggling with his feelings, as well as the hand that was given by fate and hope he’ll find happiness.
I liked the story and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
November 13, 2023
Wow! This author is so refreshing. I can never predict her stories in the best ways, and the characters just suck me in. I didn't expect this story to play out like this at all but I'm so glad it did. Jarek was a great addition to the cast, and following his fight and triumphs and defeats was a rollercoaster that had me wanting his HEA so badly. That ending!
I don't want to spoil anything so I'm not going to say too much more, but It's going to be tough to wait for the next book in this series
I don't want to spoil anything so I'm not going to say too much more, but It's going to be tough to wait for the next book in this series
November 13, 2023
Darker than the first book, so check those triggers! The whole story had me on my toes. It was intense and funny and heartfelt and scary all in one, with twists and turns for days. The circus was as demented as you could ask for and Jarek might be my new fave character (second to Jun at least).
I kept wishing it had been MMM at the end of book 1, but I think we're on a whole ass journey to get there with this one. It's going to be a hard wait for book 3! I NEED the fallout from that last chapter like yesterday
I kept wishing it had been MMM at the end of book 1, but I think we're on a whole ass journey to get there with this one. It's going to be a hard wait for book 3! I NEED the fallout from that last chapter like yesterday
November 30, 2023
Jerak a zodiac dragon shifter under the control of an evil mage, forever trying to escape. Levy a zodiac rabbit shifter/mage trying to come to terms with his life. Eliot a zodiac dog shifter and Levy mate. Gavin a zodiac rooster shifter good/bad rejected by his fated mate. Jun zodiac snake shifter, math professor and enforcer who seems to like to stir up everyone’s life and emotions. This zodiac shifter series is action packed, steamy, funny at times and always keeping you turning to the next page.
December 18, 2023
I loved Year of the Dragon by Anni Lee. It's the second book in the Chinese Zodiac series. Oh! Evil, evil, evil is the ending to this book. I need more stat! There are so many twists and turns, and we got so much backstory from Jun, and I can see why he doesn't want his fated mate. I loved that the story is a continuation of the first book and that Levy, Eliot, and Jun are a big part of the second story, in addition to Jarek and Gavin. I can't wait to read the next book when it comes out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2024
The second book was just a good as the first. The introduction of Jarek to the group was a good blend. I didn't mind there being less Eliot since his character is a bit bland for me, but I I dont think I got enough Levy/Jarek, Levy/Jun, or Jun/Jarek interaction to feel completely satisfied. There was a good amount of each, but not enough of one in particular. The ending was a surprise and it makes me curious for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2025
Overall 5 STAR
Performance 5 STAR
Story 5 STAR
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this second story of the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series.
Bret Mykel has the perfect voice for this series and I think he captured these complex characters and emotions really well.
He does evil / seductive voices so well!
Be warned that each story does end on a cliffhanger and there really is dark subjects involved so if you have any triggers make sure to check out the CW / TW before reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Performance 5 STAR
Story 5 STAR
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this second story of the Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series.
Bret Mykel has the perfect voice for this series and I think he captured these complex characters and emotions really well.
He does evil / seductive voices so well!
Be warned that each story does end on a cliffhanger and there really is dark subjects involved so if you have any triggers make sure to check out the CW / TW before reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, I never really liked the circus and now it’s even more questionable. The strength and determination that Jarek demonstrated was incredible especially after learning about his past experiences. Then to find out that he had a few mates in the mix was also surprising. The story was pretty involved with lots of different characters and how they all fit together. I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves mm romance stories that get you thinking.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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