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Bargained to Monsters #2
Married to a Merman
Mellony is used to being abandoned—but she didn’t expect her newly-wed husband to literally throw her into the sea.
As a fourth daughter, Mellony has always been a burden. Her father even added his best sailing ship to her dowry just to pawn her off to a husband. Still, she’s thrilled to marry a rich and handsome young merchant—until she discovers he’s involved in the slave trade. To silence her, he tosses her to the sea.
Fortunately, an unusual man swims to her rescue. He has a voice full of music, a powerful body that cuts through the waves, and oh, he has a tail.
Pelayo, as it turns out, is not a man at all, but a merman. He calls Mellony a gift from the Sea Mother, a gift that will save his people. He promises to help stop her husband’s enterprise... but only if she’ll accept his pearl and marry him instead.
However, it’s just a matter of time before Pelayo realizes she’s nothing special. Her heart barely survived her first husband’s betrayal... if her second also throws her away, she’ll drown for good.
------
Married to a Merman is a spicy monster romance book with a sweet monster hero. The story features a monster/human couple. This is a 68,000-word standalone fantasy monster romance book for adults. Happily ever after guaranteed.
As a fourth daughter, Mellony has always been a burden. Her father even added his best sailing ship to her dowry just to pawn her off to a husband. Still, she’s thrilled to marry a rich and handsome young merchant—until she discovers he’s involved in the slave trade. To silence her, he tosses her to the sea.
Fortunately, an unusual man swims to her rescue. He has a voice full of music, a powerful body that cuts through the waves, and oh, he has a tail.
Pelayo, as it turns out, is not a man at all, but a merman. He calls Mellony a gift from the Sea Mother, a gift that will save his people. He promises to help stop her husband’s enterprise... but only if she’ll accept his pearl and marry him instead.
However, it’s just a matter of time before Pelayo realizes she’s nothing special. Her heart barely survived her first husband’s betrayal... if her second also throws her away, she’ll drown for good.
------
Married to a Merman is a spicy monster romance book with a sweet monster hero. The story features a monster/human couple. This is a 68,000-word standalone fantasy monster romance book for adults. Happily ever after guaranteed.
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 12, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
This was my first book by Elena Moore, it looks like she only has two out so far and both take place in the same larger fantasy world. Overall the writing here was smooth and engaging. The world is detailed, primarily focused on the mer people in this book vs the wider world. I did have some personal taste issues with some of the time jumps, character development, and other finer details, but I still really enjoyed this book.
Mellony (h) is a spinster who has a downtrodden feel since she's not valued by her family. She's newly married after her father added a ship for her dowry and she's hopeful for her new marriage, though is quickly disillusioned when her husband turns out to be a monster involved in the slave trade. When confronted, he tosses her off a ship during a storm. Thankfully she’s saved by a merman, Pelayo (H), who believes their meeting is a sign from the goddess that Mellony is his mate. He's instantly devoted and ready to cherish her, insert heart eyes. Mellony has hesitations and a lot of internal baggage however, including doubts about how long he'll actually want her. She also has a plan to stop her human husband from slaving, which Pelayo agrees to support. The plot is primarily about fighting against Mellony's human husband and his atrocious acts, while Mellony also adjusts to being Pelayo's mate. Some scenes do get dark and violent FYI, which contrasted quite a bit heavily with the cozier elements. Written in first person, single POV of h. No ow drama, some om drama from h’s human husband. H is a virgin and h’s only experience is losing her virginity as a newly wed (it was one time on page and uncomfortable but lasted seconds).
I loved the romance, which was so sweet thanks to big ole cinnamon roll Pelayo who's also not afraid to protect and fight for those he loved. He's such a sweetheart who does the merman version of blushing, feeds her from his own hand, is entranced by her toes and legs, just all sorts of adorable details. Mellony isn’t as straight forward as she has low self-esteem and believes herself to be a burden, which is a constant negative refrain. I do give her props for being accepting of Pelayo and how she bonds with him too. A lot of her internal self-bashing comes from a place of feeling like he's gotten a raw deal being paired with her and she deeply cares for him. She does make poor choices at times that were frustrating and naive (she feels close to TSTL, if not actually crossing the line). Thankfully, Mellony does grow by the end, though it takes til basically the end.
I really liked that the mating ritual for the mer was unique and that it allowed for Mellony to be underwater, communicate through thought, and that they could feel each other's emotions. Mer anatomy includes double the fun *ahem* down there, but was hard for me to picture because it’s an unusual setup. This is a steamy book with plenty of descriptive scenes, including figuring each other out due to inexperience and anatomical differences. They sure do love the figuring each other out part lol.
Because there's a lot of chasing the villain around, there are brief time jumps and descriptions of long swims. It's also not just the villain who's a threat underwater and some scenes included other threats. The underwater palace for the mer sounded really cool and I liked that their society was matriarchal, the Matron was quite the character. Unfortunately not everyone is accepting of a human/mer pairing and events occur that underscore some of Mellony's negativity.
There is a separation that broke my heart, but put Mellony on the road to what needed to happen to effect change, for herself and the mer. I prefer my main characters to grow together though. The climax is very action-based and intense with "life hanging in the balance" moments. But the villain is dealt with and the ending is HEA. I did feel like Mellony needed to truly grovel when she eventually reunited with Pelayo. Of course, he was just relieved to be with his mate again. I also had questions about what their life would look like day-to-day and more time would have been lovely post-final conflict. There is a bonus epilogue available via newsletter signup. It was cute and steamy and sweet. I’d read more by this author, I imagine her voice will only strengthen.
This was my first book by Elena Moore, it looks like she only has two out so far and both take place in the same larger fantasy world. Overall the writing here was smooth and engaging. The world is detailed, primarily focused on the mer people in this book vs the wider world. I did have some personal taste issues with some of the time jumps, character development, and other finer details, but I still really enjoyed this book.
Mellony (h) is a spinster who has a downtrodden feel since she's not valued by her family. She's newly married after her father added a ship for her dowry and she's hopeful for her new marriage, though is quickly disillusioned when her husband turns out to be a monster involved in the slave trade. When confronted, he tosses her off a ship during a storm. Thankfully she’s saved by a merman, Pelayo (H), who believes their meeting is a sign from the goddess that Mellony is his mate. He's instantly devoted and ready to cherish her, insert heart eyes. Mellony has hesitations and a lot of internal baggage however, including doubts about how long he'll actually want her. She also has a plan to stop her human husband from slaving, which Pelayo agrees to support. The plot is primarily about fighting against Mellony's human husband and his atrocious acts, while Mellony also adjusts to being Pelayo's mate. Some scenes do get dark and violent FYI, which contrasted quite a bit heavily with the cozier elements. Written in first person, single POV of h. No ow drama, some om drama from h’s human husband. H is a virgin and h’s only experience is losing her virginity as a newly wed (it was one time on page and uncomfortable but lasted seconds).
I loved the romance, which was so sweet thanks to big ole cinnamon roll Pelayo who's also not afraid to protect and fight for those he loved. He's such a sweetheart who does the merman version of blushing, feeds her from his own hand, is entranced by her toes and legs, just all sorts of adorable details. Mellony isn’t as straight forward as she has low self-esteem and believes herself to be a burden, which is a constant negative refrain. I do give her props for being accepting of Pelayo and how she bonds with him too. A lot of her internal self-bashing comes from a place of feeling like he's gotten a raw deal being paired with her and she deeply cares for him. She does make poor choices at times that were frustrating and naive (she feels close to TSTL, if not actually crossing the line). Thankfully, Mellony does grow by the end, though it takes til basically the end.
I really liked that the mating ritual for the mer was unique and that it allowed for Mellony to be underwater, communicate through thought, and that they could feel each other's emotions. Mer anatomy includes double the fun *ahem* down there, but was hard for me to picture because it’s an unusual setup. This is a steamy book with plenty of descriptive scenes, including figuring each other out due to inexperience and anatomical differences. They sure do love the figuring each other out part lol.
Because there's a lot of chasing the villain around, there are brief time jumps and descriptions of long swims. It's also not just the villain who's a threat underwater and some scenes included other threats. The underwater palace for the mer sounded really cool and I liked that their society was matriarchal, the Matron was quite the character. Unfortunately not everyone is accepting of a human/mer pairing and events occur that underscore some of Mellony's negativity.
There is a separation that broke my heart, but put Mellony on the road to what needed to happen to effect change, for herself and the mer. I prefer my main characters to grow together though. The climax is very action-based and intense with "life hanging in the balance" moments. But the villain is dealt with and the ending is HEA. I did feel like Mellony needed to truly grovel when she eventually reunited with Pelayo. Of course, he was just relieved to be with his mate again. I also had questions about what their life would look like day-to-day and more time would have been lovely post-final conflict. There is a bonus epilogue available via newsletter signup. It was cute and steamy and sweet. I’d read more by this author, I imagine her voice will only strengthen.
December 25, 2023
Safety:
• Virgin H/ non virgin h- ish? She was practically r@ped by her husband she didn’t love one time and she was a virgin
• No OW/ some OM with her ex husband (he is violent towards the mermaids)
• no condoms (not like this could be a thing because he has two 🍆)
• Virgin H/ non virgin h- ish? She was practically r@ped by her husband she didn’t love one time and she was a virgin
• No OW/ some OM with her ex husband (he is violent towards the mermaids)
• no condoms (not like this could be a thing because he has two 🍆)
March 20, 2024
RE-READ: Under and Over Seas (Pisces theme)
Look I get it Mellony
I love the sea the same way I love lions and big bears I fear the sea - in much the same way. And yet, if presented with the choice to adapt to the merciless waters to swim below forever with a sweet angel like Pelayo - I'd do it in a heartbeart.
Probably my favorite Mer-human couple.
Gills, you say?
Webbed hands, you say?
Did you say scsles and little side-leg fins?
Sign👏me👏up👏
************************************
OLD REVIEW:
Get in losers we're commandeering the ocean to stop Slave Traders and then we're falling in love with Mermen seriously though, this was stinking cute.
Despite some heavy subject matter .. let's see: slavery, dirtbag slave trading first husband, oh and "Walking the Plank" well at least getting thrown over by said 5 pump chump dirtbag Garret - this book gave me some warm and fuzzies.
I am warming up to first person narrative these days, especially in Romantasy. Sometimes it's a bit jarring but despite that I was rooting for Mellony and I also wanted to yell at her for confronting trashbag Garret on a stormy ship in the middle of the ocean. HELLO situational awareness much?
Romance: Plot/Storyline/Themes: I am convinced Romantasy is ruining all men for me - seriously why can't they just be like Pelayo huh? Mellonyfulgria and Pelayo are sweet and spicy and all things nice. What a love story. The underlying themes are definitely abandonment and a sense of self worth that has taken one too many dings given the time and women's agency in that world.
Character Development/Favorite Character/s:
Mellony: a beautiful 26 year old (considered a spinster in that era) who has never been loved, is riddled with a weird combination of self confidence and in the same breath doubt. The FMC is accustomed to being begrudgingly tolerated as opposed to loved - a lot of childhood trauma to unpack there.
"It’s better to be alone than unwanted, and my soul feels lighter for it." (Mellony on ...life)
Pelayo: I love this kind of merfolk characterization; not just top half human, bottom half fish - his anatomy is realistic (given the fantastical nature of this creature and my suspension of disbelief) and feels all the more mesmerizing. Okay so, I realize I am objectifying this merman, what can you do, he's equal parts hot, adorable, loyal, kind, brave - you know what I love you Mellony but Imma just nip back into this book and snatch him up for myself mkay?
“I shall cherish you, Mellonyfulgria, and protect you with all my strength. My heart, my body, my spear, shall be yours alone.” (Pelayo being every bit as endearing as a merman could be).
Favorite/Curious/Unique Scene::
Two creatures, both studying each other intenly, what's similar and what's different. Cuteness.
While I’m ogling him, he’s ogling my toes. I suppose I must’ve lost my shoes while the sea was tossing me about. The merman pokes my pinky toe, and I can’t help but curl the rest of them when he does. He grasps my foot by the ankle and lifts it a few inches. He looks at it from every angle (Mellony taking it rather well that a merman is staring at her toes)
Favorite/Curious/Unique Quotes:
●"Everything that passes my lips tastes like broken dreams." (Mellony on the "joys" of marriage)
●"it’s hard to be properly scared of someone when he’s sniffing your toes." (Meet cute so cute)
Favorite/Curious/Unique Concepts: Merfolk Magic
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2025
Challenge Prompt: 150 Romance books by 2025
Look I get it Mellony
I love the sea the same way I love lions and big bears I fear the sea - in much the same way. And yet, if presented with the choice to adapt to the merciless waters to swim below forever with a sweet angel like Pelayo - I'd do it in a heartbeart.
Probably my favorite Mer-human couple.
Gills, you say?
Webbed hands, you say?
Did you say scsles and little side-leg fins?
Sign👏me👏up👏
************************************
OLD REVIEW:
Get in losers we're commandeering the ocean to stop Slave Traders and then we're falling in love with Mermen seriously though, this was stinking cute.
Despite some heavy subject matter .. let's see: slavery, dirtbag slave trading first husband, oh and "Walking the Plank" well at least getting thrown over by said 5 pump chump dirtbag Garret - this book gave me some warm and fuzzies.
I am warming up to first person narrative these days, especially in Romantasy. Sometimes it's a bit jarring but despite that I was rooting for Mellony and I also wanted to yell at her for confronting trashbag Garret on a stormy ship in the middle of the ocean. HELLO situational awareness much?
Romance: Plot/Storyline/Themes: I am convinced Romantasy is ruining all men for me - seriously why can't they just be like Pelayo huh? Mellonyfulgria and Pelayo are sweet and spicy and all things nice. What a love story. The underlying themes are definitely abandonment and a sense of self worth that has taken one too many dings given the time and women's agency in that world.
Character Development/Favorite Character/s:
Mellony: a beautiful 26 year old (considered a spinster in that era) who has never been loved, is riddled with a weird combination of self confidence and in the same breath doubt. The FMC is accustomed to being begrudgingly tolerated as opposed to loved - a lot of childhood trauma to unpack there.
"It’s better to be alone than unwanted, and my soul feels lighter for it." (Mellony on ...life)
Pelayo: I love this kind of merfolk characterization; not just top half human, bottom half fish - his anatomy is realistic (given the fantastical nature of this creature and my suspension of disbelief) and feels all the more mesmerizing. Okay so, I realize I am objectifying this merman, what can you do, he's equal parts hot, adorable, loyal, kind, brave - you know what I love you Mellony but Imma just nip back into this book and snatch him up for myself mkay?
“I shall cherish you, Mellonyfulgria, and protect you with all my strength. My heart, my body, my spear, shall be yours alone.” (Pelayo being every bit as endearing as a merman could be).
Favorite/Curious/Unique Scene::
Two creatures, both studying each other intenly, what's similar and what's different. Cuteness.
While I’m ogling him, he’s ogling my toes. I suppose I must’ve lost my shoes while the sea was tossing me about. The merman pokes my pinky toe, and I can’t help but curl the rest of them when he does. He grasps my foot by the ankle and lifts it a few inches. He looks at it from every angle (Mellony taking it rather well that a merman is staring at her toes)
Favorite/Curious/Unique Quotes:
●"Everything that passes my lips tastes like broken dreams." (Mellony on the "joys" of marriage)
●"it’s hard to be properly scared of someone when he’s sniffing your toes." (Meet cute so cute)
Favorite/Curious/Unique Concepts: Merfolk Magic
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2025
Challenge Prompt: 150 Romance books by 2025
ebook-tbr
November 23, 2023omg who made this cover?????? IM OBSESSED
May 23, 2024
3.5
This book was a surprise for me. I'm a sucker for merman/mermaid stories, and after looking at that cover, I couldn't resist myself. This year I haven't had much luck in regards to aquatic stories, but I'm glad to announce I finally found THE aquatic story of 2024🛐
I'm not saying the story is without fault or that it has become a favorite of mine, but there's a lot of potential, creativity, and originality.
In regards to the story, to me, there are two types of fantasy. The high one and the fairytale-esque one. One tends to read more 'sophisticated' than the other while the other reads 'simple', maybe even a little bit childish. This book had a little bit of both, so some things worked for me right away while others took time for me to adjust and even accept. Nevertheless, I ended up feeling invested in the story and the characters.
⚠️↘️SOME SPOILERS↙️⚠️
I found Mellony to be likable and down-to-earth. She was aware of her limitations and wasn't completely naive. She definitely surprised me when she started to realize she wasn't the problem and instead was surrounded by sh*tty people who were supposed to love her and protect her.
When I think about 'feminine rage', I think about women being assertive and outspoken. However, the way Mellony carried herself was calm and calculated, which I thought was not only in character for her but also made her more unpredictable. She kept me guessing as to what she was going to do, and I wasn't disappointed when she took matters into her own hands.
The spice was spicing - and it was creative compared to other books I've read using the merman trope - something I WAS NOT expecting, but I'm so very glad it did.
There are a couple of typos throughout the book, and I'm going to list them here:
Page 61
"Does my nakedness I offend you?"
Page 116
"He face blanches white as the Maria Fulgria’s sails."
Page 151
"I feel like I did this to him just be existing. “I’m sorry,” I whisper."
Overall, this was a fun read full of magic and acceptance. It kept me entertained and constantly guessing throughout it. I think the mer-world has the potential to be explored further, but even if the next book doesn't, I'll definitely read it.
This book was a surprise for me. I'm a sucker for merman/mermaid stories, and after looking at that cover, I couldn't resist myself. This year I haven't had much luck in regards to aquatic stories, but I'm glad to announce I finally found THE aquatic story of 2024🛐
I'm not saying the story is without fault or that it has become a favorite of mine, but there's a lot of potential, creativity, and originality.
In regards to the story, to me, there are two types of fantasy. The high one and the fairytale-esque one. One tends to read more 'sophisticated' than the other while the other reads 'simple', maybe even a little bit childish. This book had a little bit of both, so some things worked for me right away while others took time for me to adjust and even accept. Nevertheless, I ended up feeling invested in the story and the characters.
⚠️↘️SOME SPOILERS↙️⚠️
I found Mellony to be likable and down-to-earth. She was aware of her limitations and wasn't completely naive. She definitely surprised me when she started to realize she wasn't the problem and instead was surrounded by sh*tty people who were supposed to love her and protect her.
When I think about 'feminine rage', I think about women being assertive and outspoken. However, the way Mellony carried herself was calm and calculated, which I thought was not only in character for her but also made her more unpredictable. She kept me guessing as to what she was going to do, and I wasn't disappointed when she took matters into her own hands.
The spice was spicing - and it was creative compared to other books I've read using the merman trope - something I WAS NOT expecting, but I'm so very glad it did.
There are a couple of typos throughout the book, and I'm going to list them here:
Page 61
"Does my nakedness I offend you?"
Page 116
"He face blanches white as the Maria Fulgria’s sails."
Page 151
"I feel like I did this to him just be existing. “I’m sorry,” I whisper."
Overall, this was a fun read full of magic and acceptance. It kept me entertained and constantly guessing throughout it. I think the mer-world has the potential to be explored further, but even if the next book doesn't, I'll definitely read it.
December 8, 2023
Newly married Mellony (h) and her husband, Garrett, depart on their honeymoon aboard the ship her father included as part of her dowry. She soon finds evidence he’s a slave trader, and when confronted he throws her overboard, where she descends into darkness. Merman Pelayo (H) rescues Mellony, believing her to be the mate sent to him by the Sea Mother, the goddess of the mer. He agrees to help Mellony stop Garret if she agrees to be his mate, and the two set off on their journey. Mellony finds pleasure with Pelayo in ways she never did with Garrett, btu she struggles with her insecurities after a lifetime of harsh treatment. Pelayo is dedicated to Mellony and will do anything to help her, his pearl. Mellony will have to grow and develop in so many ways before she finds her way, with many sacrifices and dangers along the journey. Pelayo is strong and supportive of Mellony, always treasuring her and loving her just as she is. Ultra-hot and steamy mer-human romance with lots of action, danger, and violence.
November 29, 2023
Mellony is the fourth daughter who was always made to feel unwanted by her father and sisters. Her mother died during her birth. Now she has grown but has been unable to find a husband. Finally her father throws in one of his ships to be part of her dowry. A young merchant ends up marrying her, more for the ship than for any desire for Mellony. One their wedding night, Mellony learns that her husband wants to use the ship for the slave trade. When she confronts him, he pushes her overboard. Luckily a merman named Pelayo rescues her. Mellony wants to stop her husband from collecting slaves. Pelayo agrees to help her if she agrees to be his mate.
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.
Did Not Finish
September 23, 2024DNF @ 40%
I liked the idea behind MARRIED TO A MERMAN but it was kind of boring and Mellony was too naive as a FMC. I did appreciate that Pelayo was more than just a human man with a fish tail, he actually had some interesting "monster" attributes. It was spicy but between those scenes it was super slow.
I liked the idea behind MARRIED TO A MERMAN but it was kind of boring and Mellony was too naive as a FMC. I did appreciate that Pelayo was more than just a human man with a fish tail, he actually had some interesting "monster" attributes. It was spicy but between those scenes it was super slow.
Read
September 9, 2024Unfortunately, I like my merman romances with a raw edge and a hint of darkness. Everything here was too sweet, and I seriously question the heroine's intellectual capacity.
No to this. Not my cuppa.
No to this. Not my cuppa.
May 4, 2024
This is a good book with a human/merman pairing and chosen mates. It has a splash of action, danger and some light angst.
Mel is the youngest in her family and married off to a merchant. Mel is unwanted in her family and struggles with a sense of self worth. She is eager to marry and hopes Garrett is a good match. Mel seems to be practical, strong, and yet vulnerable from her lonely upbringing. The book starts right after their marriage and the beginning of their voyage.
Unfortunately, she discovers her new husband is not a good man. When she confronts him over his slave trade pursuits, he throws her overboard and leaves her for dead. Mel is saved by a merman, Pelayo. The merfolk are known to exist but rarely seen by humans.
Pelayo is convinced Mel was sent to him from their goddess as a mate and a blessing to his people. I thought it was interesting how the merfolk choose mates by giving them a “pearl.” The pearl is a part of them and when removed, it is then given to their mate and placed inside their chest, basically. For Mel, it gives her gills and allows her to sense Pelayo’s emotions & vice versa.
Pelayo felt a little one dimensional to me and probably because the book was single POV from Mel. He didn’t think have much of a personality and it was instalove on his side. Mel was more hesitant because her husband just threw her overboard (makes sense) and she has no value of worth. In order to convince get to become mates, Pelayo says he will help her stop Garrett from slave trading. She agrees.
The spice happens pretty quickly and I would’ve appreciated more of a medium/slow burn. Mel just had dubcon sex for the first time with Garrett (30 sec disappointment), had dinner, confronted him, and was tossed overboard. She meets Pelayo, agrees to become his mate, and then maybe 12 hours later has sex with him. That was my perception at least. It felt too quick for what Mel had just been through.
Pelayo has some interesting anatomy, a double 🍆, and he’s a virgin. I’m not great at visualizing and I felt like I needed a picture for how exactly his anatomy was made though. He is described as having “claspers” and all I can think of is lobster claspers. The spice was super well done though! We even got some DVP (as we should with double 🍆)!!! So thank you, author, for that 😂
Overall, this was a pretty good book and I’d definitely read more by this author. The artwork on the cover is gorgeous!
Mel is the youngest in her family and married off to a merchant. Mel is unwanted in her family and struggles with a sense of self worth. She is eager to marry and hopes Garrett is a good match. Mel seems to be practical, strong, and yet vulnerable from her lonely upbringing. The book starts right after their marriage and the beginning of their voyage.
Unfortunately, she discovers her new husband is not a good man. When she confronts him over his slave trade pursuits, he throws her overboard and leaves her for dead. Mel is saved by a merman, Pelayo. The merfolk are known to exist but rarely seen by humans.
Pelayo is convinced Mel was sent to him from their goddess as a mate and a blessing to his people. I thought it was interesting how the merfolk choose mates by giving them a “pearl.” The pearl is a part of them and when removed, it is then given to their mate and placed inside their chest, basically. For Mel, it gives her gills and allows her to sense Pelayo’s emotions & vice versa.
Pelayo felt a little one dimensional to me and probably because the book was single POV from Mel. He didn’t think have much of a personality and it was instalove on his side. Mel was more hesitant because her husband just threw her overboard (makes sense) and she has no value of worth. In order to convince get to become mates, Pelayo says he will help her stop Garrett from slave trading. She agrees.
The spice happens pretty quickly and I would’ve appreciated more of a medium/slow burn. Mel just had dubcon sex for the first time with Garrett (30 sec disappointment), had dinner, confronted him, and was tossed overboard. She meets Pelayo, agrees to become his mate, and then maybe 12 hours later has sex with him. That was my perception at least. It felt too quick for what Mel had just been through.
Pelayo has some interesting anatomy, a double 🍆, and he’s a virgin. I’m not great at visualizing and I felt like I needed a picture for how exactly his anatomy was made though. He is described as having “claspers” and all I can think of is lobster claspers. The spice was super well done though! We even got some DVP (as we should with double 🍆)!!! So thank you, author, for that 😂
Overall, this was a pretty good book and I’d definitely read more by this author. The artwork on the cover is gorgeous!
November 21, 2023
The first part of this book really hurt my heart on behalf of the FMC. To be so conscious of being not cared for and used by the people who SHOULD love you and accept you most is just gutting. But that certainly makes the story between the MC's all the sweeter. I this world Mers aren't mythology but they're rarely seen and almost never interacted with which is part of why I especially love their meeting interaction; it made me snort laugh aloud: "I should probably be afraid, but I’m not, despite all the stories of merfolk dragging humans into the sea to drown. I mean, he’s probably the one who saved my life, so he can’t mean me any harm, right? He wouldn’t have fashioned a pallet for me otherwise. Also, it’s hard to be properly scared of someone when he’s sniffing your toes.
The merman cocks his head, looking at the sole of my foot, then rotating my ankle. He returns to inspecting my toes, leaning closer and closer until my big toe is right in his face. And then he puts it in his mouth. I shriek, not just because of what he did, but also at the shock of the warm, wet sensation engulfing my toe. I jerk my foot from his grasp and scramble backward. My sudden wakefulness obviously startles the merman. He hisses like a cat, baring needle-sharp teeth so terrifying I gasp. He flips around and disappears into the water with a splash."
I also really like the fact that while there is instant attraction there is an acknowledgement of there not being instant love; but rather faith that they are destined FOR love which I found very touching. This is also a fun virgin MMC and basically virgin FMC who come together so sweetly it will make you go awwww. Super fun read that goes SO QUICKLY, 5/5 Stars.
The merman cocks his head, looking at the sole of my foot, then rotating my ankle. He returns to inspecting my toes, leaning closer and closer until my big toe is right in his face. And then he puts it in his mouth. I shriek, not just because of what he did, but also at the shock of the warm, wet sensation engulfing my toe. I jerk my foot from his grasp and scramble backward. My sudden wakefulness obviously startles the merman. He hisses like a cat, baring needle-sharp teeth so terrifying I gasp. He flips around and disappears into the water with a splash."
I also really like the fact that while there is instant attraction there is an acknowledgement of there not being instant love; but rather faith that they are destined FOR love which I found very touching. This is also a fun virgin MMC and basically virgin FMC who come together so sweetly it will make you go awwww. Super fun read that goes SO QUICKLY, 5/5 Stars.
August 18, 2024
Generally i would rather not read steamy stuff(not a prude, just used to the fade to black but well each time it's rarer i feel), or monster romance due to the weirdness, but lately i have been more open minded and said fck it, i want a story where the merfolk isn't the girl, and well i am weak for pretty covers(ik kinda shallow lol) so i picked it up. Also, i have heard good opinions about the dinamics in monster romance reviews on Bookpodcasts from Youtube so well, here i got.
Kinda spoiler?: Sure, i was frustrated how naiive their plan was: that POS did not have enough moral compass to say " oopsie, i am wrong let's sweat holly water from now on uwu " so it was a waste of time, but they did recognize it at the end so all good. I loved how much of a sweet golden retriever Ml was to fl, i like the dynamic of abused broken bean being nursed lots of love from sunshine bean back and learning they deserve happiness too, kinda cute🥺, in this case both of them were adorable and Pelayo was a green flag even in his color pallette lol.
Anyway i gave it 4 stars as well , lows aside i had enough good points to score it that way. I like powercouples as a romance subplot( like my coffee i like my romances with just enough sweetness, not too much yet not too sour, light with milk, as i hate how many romance stories become boring once they get together yet here there was an interesting plot beyond the romance) but i also love sweet pairs aww so sometimes i am like ok, lets read a sweet pair.
Also, fl gets character development yay, but i would have loved more of ml's pov and development too as well.
I felt,if i am not mistaken, the Matron was kinda a wink of Ariel from tlm somehow: red ginger and a human collection?, nice. Well, that is all i can remember to say, i think.
Kinda spoiler?: Sure, i was frustrated how naiive their plan was: that POS did not have enough moral compass to say " oopsie, i am wrong let's sweat holly water from now on uwu " so it was a waste of time, but they did recognize it at the end so all good. I loved how much of a sweet golden retriever Ml was to fl, i like the dynamic of abused broken bean being nursed lots of love from sunshine bean back and learning they deserve happiness too, kinda cute🥺, in this case both of them were adorable and Pelayo was a green flag even in his color pallette lol.
Anyway i gave it 4 stars as well , lows aside i had enough good points to score it that way. I like powercouples as a romance subplot( like my coffee i like my romances with just enough sweetness, not too much yet not too sour, light with milk, as i hate how many romance stories become boring once they get together yet here there was an interesting plot beyond the romance) but i also love sweet pairs aww so sometimes i am like ok, lets read a sweet pair.
Also, fl gets character development yay, but i would have loved more of ml's pov and development too as well.
I felt,if i am not mistaken, the Matron was kinda a wink of Ariel from tlm somehow: red ginger and a human collection?, nice. Well, that is all i can remember to say, i think.
November 27, 2023
“I shall cherish you, Mellonyfulgria, and protect you with all my strength. My heart, my body, my spear, shall be yours alone.”
'It’s incredible. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine anyone would say such a thing to me and mean it.'
My family gave me up and my husband just threw me off a ship to die, so why can’t I seize whatever scraps of happiness fall my way?
I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I thought the first meeting between Mellony and Pelayo was absolutely adorable. Pelayo won my heart right then and there. I was so sad for how Mellony was treated by her family and even more so by her new husband. She has a lifetime of insecurity issues due to the rejection and disdain of her family to work though, but Pelayo was so sweet and heartfelt. I couldn't wait to see them fall in love. This story was a fun adventure with action, danger, and, of course, romance. This was the first book I've read by this author and I will be back for more. 5 stars.
'It’s incredible. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine anyone would say such a thing to me and mean it.'
My family gave me up and my husband just threw me off a ship to die, so why can’t I seize whatever scraps of happiness fall my way?
I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I thought the first meeting between Mellony and Pelayo was absolutely adorable. Pelayo won my heart right then and there. I was so sad for how Mellony was treated by her family and even more so by her new husband. She has a lifetime of insecurity issues due to the rejection and disdain of her family to work though, but Pelayo was so sweet and heartfelt. I couldn't wait to see them fall in love. This story was a fun adventure with action, danger, and, of course, romance. This was the first book I've read by this author and I will be back for more. 5 stars.
August 9, 2025
I enjoyed the concept a lot and thought this had a good balance of sweet/wholesome, angst, and spicy scenes.
I loved the romance, although I think I would have appreciated a bit more of a slow burn with the sex. Pelayo is such a sweetheart and I loved his earnestness, seeing the characters show curiosity toward each other, and having Mellony work through her past so she could receive his love. I also enjoyed seeing that the merfolk society was matriarchal and enjoyed what lore we got about them!
I liked that we had a plot beyond the romance, although Mellony struck me as overly trusting which made the plot a bit more predictable than it could have been. Some of the swimming scenes also dragged a bit. Overall though I enjoyed the story.
I loved the romance, although I think I would have appreciated a bit more of a slow burn with the sex. Pelayo is such a sweetheart and I loved his earnestness, seeing the characters show curiosity toward each other, and having Mellony work through her past so she could receive his love. I also enjoyed seeing that the merfolk society was matriarchal and enjoyed what lore we got about them!
I liked that we had a plot beyond the romance, although Mellony struck me as overly trusting which made the plot a bit more predictable than it could have been. Some of the swimming scenes also dragged a bit. Overall though I enjoyed the story.
November 22, 2023
One of my favorite ARC reads of 2023!
I don't know where else to begin besides starting out with, I LOVE THIS BOOK!
The world-building is simplistic and yet full of wonder, which together creates a breathtaking, heartwarming, and empowering story.
The spice is beautifully written and passionate, but it's how the characters act around one another that shows the reader the true romance of the story because love isn't just smut; it's a relationship with understanding, trust, and empathy.
The author did a phenomenal job in creating this story and telling its tale.
I don't know where else to begin besides starting out with, I LOVE THIS BOOK!
The world-building is simplistic and yet full of wonder, which together creates a breathtaking, heartwarming, and empowering story.
The spice is beautifully written and passionate, but it's how the characters act around one another that shows the reader the true romance of the story because love isn't just smut; it's a relationship with understanding, trust, and empathy.
The author did a phenomenal job in creating this story and telling its tale.
December 5, 2023
This was such a hot and romantic monster romance! You really do not see merman novels as a monster romance so this was a refreshing read.
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.
September 19, 2024
The story leans more into erotica than anything else. The MMC is a total green flag, and there’s some character development for the FMC, I guess, but of course, it all feels a bit too convenient—thanks to the power of the plot.
October 14, 2024
omg
This might be my favorite merman romance. Because I mean….Pelayo. Come on. Clasp clasp.
Well written, intriguing plot (though the solution was a bit over the top). But hey, it’s fantasy and I loved it.
Just what I was looking for.
Spice with plot 👌🏼
This might be my favorite merman romance. Because I mean….Pelayo. Come on. Clasp clasp.
Well written, intriguing plot (though the solution was a bit over the top). But hey, it’s fantasy and I loved it.
Just what I was looking for.
Spice with plot 👌🏼
September 28, 2025
California roll
Lovely mmc. Heroine is also well written. Takes her a while to believe her worth but she had a lot to overcome. Nice balance between sexy scenes and story. Interesting take on mer sex.
Lovely mmc. Heroine is also well written. Takes her a while to believe her worth but she had a lot to overcome. Nice balance between sexy scenes and story. Interesting take on mer sex.
July 15, 2026
True mates
I was skeptical about finding a good mermaid book,but at last I finally found one. Makes your heart ache,and throb with love and joy. This book really has all your emotions in one. I absolutely love loved it!!
I was skeptical about finding a good mermaid book,but at last I finally found one. Makes your heart ache,and throb with love and joy. This book really has all your emotions in one. I absolutely love loved it!!
Did Not Finish
January 23, 2024why the merman kinda.....
March 2, 2025
3.5 stars
October 25, 2025
This was a nice read from beginning to end i found the characters and the story interesting. Read this if you just need a quick fun read.
May 5, 2024
3.5-3.75 stars rounded up to 4.
August 8, 2025
MARRIED TO A MERMAN is the best merman book I have ever read. The adventure starts on the Maria Fulgria, a tall ship. I didn’t expect the story to be set in what feels like the 1800s and then bleeds into a fantasy world with a paranormal romance. Mellony has just been married and I thought her husband was the merman, but things quickly come undone with the human Garrett. Mellony isn’t loved by her family or husband and she isn’t the most skilled person or smartest either. After being thrown overboard by her dickhead husband, an equally naïve merman rescues Mellony. They are an adorable perfect match. Mellony decides to go after Garrett because he has her family ship and he is about the buy slaves, but it gets worse, and Mellony finds the strength and wits to out smart him. Pelayo will protect Mellony at all costs. They work well together. And it’s Pelayo’s love that awakens Mellony’s self-worth. I loved the story, the descriptions, the adventure, and of course the exploratory, sensual love scenes between a human and merman that will make you blush like a merman.
January 22, 2025
Was on ok book. The spicy scenes were a bit odd…as in the merman had two…uh, “claspers” and they were as long as her forearm (Damn!). They also moved on their own. I never read a monster smut…but yeah, that was um, interesting lol!
It was hard to figure out what exactly was going on in those spicy scenes though.
Plot was ok. Mellony was a bit annoying for me.
It was hard to figure out what exactly was going on in those spicy scenes though.
Plot was ok. Mellony was a bit annoying for me.
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