Haunting Beauty

The Mate Games: Death #1

by K. Loraine, Meg Anne, Stella Hunter (Narrator)

An all new duet narrated multicast series from USA Today best-selling authors Meg Anne and K. Loraine.

One heroic act damned me for eternity. With a name like Tor, I should have been a hero, just like my father and twin. Turns out I’m not. Not even close. Instead I’m the very thing we hunted. A depraved monster. I thought there was no escaping the curse. No hope for a future.

And then I met my mate in the unlikeliest of places: Blackwood Asylum. A place for criminals. Power-hungry madmen. Supernatural outcasts. And her, the curvaceous writer who sees ghosts.

I’m not the only one with a need to claim her though, and I don’t know which of us she’ll choose.

The dragon

The pirate

The lost soul, or me...the beast.

Dahlia was my reason for holding on to the last shreds of my humanity, but with every passing day I lose more of myself. And I’m starting to think that’s for the best.

With threats closing in from all sides and a serial killer on the loose, maybe fate brought us together because she doesn’t need a hero. Maybe what my beauty really needs is a villain.

For fans of Supernatural and American Horror Story, USA Today best-selling authors Meg Anne and K. Loraine are thrilled to bring you another installment in the Mate Games Universe.

Warning: The Mate Games: Death is a spicy paranormal series with a cast of antiheroes utterly devoted to their heroine (even if they haven’t realized it yet). It contains a cursed Novasgardian berserker with primal energy, a dastardly pirate captain who deals in pixie dust, a possessive fae dragon shifter who is fond of hand necklaces, and a mysterious Southern gentleman who’d show her what he liked, if only he could remember. Please refer to the authors' website for all tropes, tags, and CWs.

Genres: Fantasy, Audiobook, Why Choose, Paranormal, Romance, Dark Romance, Paranormal Romance

10 pages, Audible Audio

Published January 15, 2024

Reviews

[Lucie V. · Rating 4 out of 5]

✅ Main character
✅ Slightly unhinged love interests
✅ Future RH
✅ Sexual tension and smut
✅ Multiple POVs
✅ Magic / Shifters / Vampires / Demons
✅ Pace
✅(🆗) Plot
❗️❗️Mild cliffhanger
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: mentions of cult (past), panic attacks, and past attempted rape

If you like intense and slightly unhinged love interests, this one is for you. 😉

**This series can be read independently, but if you want to fully understand the background and past events, you should read The Mate Games: War (Obsession) and The Mate Games: Pestilence (Deal with the Demon) first.

After War and pestilence, it’s Death’s turn to try to start the apocalypse.
Dahlia is sent to Blackwood to care for her mental health after an intense breakdown during the premiere of her book’s movie adaptation. She quickly realizes that Blackwood’s residents are not all sound of mind, and definitely not human at all. Dahlia also comes to understand that she can see ghosts and that she is not 100% human either.

The setting of this book is a little darker than the previous series, as it happens in an asylum a care center for people who need a psychological break and some help. The patients are not all sane and sound, and many are there because they’ve been forced to: it’s either that or a supernatural prison of some sort, so Dahlia finds herself in the middle of this group of powerful, unsteady, and dangerous magical beings.

I’ve always had a thing for villains. Morally gray is my favorite flavor, and red my favorite color. Flag, that is.
We’ll just call them daddy issues and leave it at that.

Dahlia is the daughter of a cult leader who, after surviving a very traumatic childhood, enjoys her time alone in her home. She doesn’t like mingling with people and she easily gets anxious, yet she has spunk when being pushed around by the guys of Blackwood. She is witty and funny, and her interactions with the 4 guys are full of sass and sexual tension. I can’t wait for their bonds to develop and solidify.

“Oh my God, he’s SCOTTISH? You need to lead with the good stuff. How tall are you? Six-two? Six-three?” Kiki asked.
“Six-four.”
She fanned her face. “I might be pregnant.”
“Keeks!”
“What? Have you seen this guy? Good lord. He’s like a walking fertility clinic. I bet he could knock up an octogenarian.”


“I need you to show her your tattoo.”
“You need to be more specific, lass. I’m covered in them.”
“Is it my birthday?” Kiki whispered. “This feels like a present.”
“The moving one. It’s usually here,” I said, reaching up and tracing the edge of his collar.
The man gave a soft grunt that I felt in my lady business. Fuck. Without a word, he reached behind his head and pulled his shirt off.
Kiki gasped. “Oh fuck, I was such a good girl, wasn’t I?”
“Kiki . . .”

Also, I have to mention that Kiki is a hilarious best friend, and her exchanges with Dahlia, while she was in Blackwood, were so funny, they made me smile and laugh out loud every time.

Kai is the resident dragon, with a tenuous control over his dragon side, especially when his dragon is decided to claim Dahlia as his. He is haunted by his past and tries his best to learn how to control his dragon so he is never a danger to others again. I adored his more understanding side when it came to Dahlia’s moods and needs. Whereas Hook was all flirty, Cain was hot and cold, and Tor was pushing her away (for her good), Kai knew when to give her space, and when to just be there for her to chat and lend an ear. He wanted her but was also willing to act as a friend if that’s what Dahlia needed.

Dr. Masterson: Caspian, what have I told you about calling me darling?
Caspian: *whispers* That it makes you wet?
Dr. Masterson: Don’t make me send you to isolation again.


“Was I talking about you?” Cain asked with a lift of his brow. “I didn’t realize you dabbled in souls, Caspian.”
“What use is a soul? Virtue. Panties. Those are far more interesting.”

Caspian Hook… We saw him at the end of the pestilence series, and I was super intrigued by him, so I was thrilled to know that he was one of the love interests in this series. He is sexy, cocky, and he adds a little humor and lightness to the intense and part-time unhinged crew that gravitates around Dahlia. He is cheeky, sexy, and arrogant, and I loved him. I kept picturing a fae version of Colin O'Donoghue for him. I can’t even remember what he’s supposed to look like. He’s Colin O'Donoghue to me.

“Is he always like this? Hot and cold? Ready to shove me up against the wall and claim me, then act as frozen as the polar ice caps. Well . . . maybe that’s a bad example. They’re melting.”

Tor Nordson is the intense, caring, and protective mate, who also happens to be a cursed Berserker who can lose control of his beast whenever he’s angry. Because of the curse, he knows that one day soon, he might change into the beast and not be able to change back, and because of that and the threat his beast poses to Dahlia, he tries to keep his distance at first. Seeing him care for Dahlia made me jealous. The way he swooped in and treated her like a princess when she had her period? That was the ultimate boyfriend level.

Cain only grinned. It was in that moment I realized how completely I’d underestimated him. I’d thought Tor was unhinged, but Cain was the true monster. He might be the most depraved of us all. And I’d helped him slip his leash.

Cain Alexander is the most intriguing of the 4 men. We don’t know much about him, and he lost his memories so he doesn’t know much about himself either. There are hints about who he might be, but nothing confirmed yet… He is powerful, and I’m curious to see if my suspicions about him are right.

The rivalry between the 4 guys reminds me of the dynamic in the first book of The Mate Games: War. They all want Dhalia, and they realize that she might be attracted to all of them, but they are not ready to share her yet, even though they are starting to understand that they might not have a choice eventually. For now, all is fair between them, and it’s like they’re having a competition of sorts to see who will get the furthest with Dahlia, and who will be able to claim her and have her choose him first.

There is no real reverse harem yet, but Dahlia does spend some quality time (*wink wink*) with all 4 guys, and she bonds on a deeper level with one of them too. There is some good and hot smut in this book, but not an overabundance of it, and the authors managed to make it spicy even if Dahlia doesn’t go “all the way” and have sex with all of the men.

After seeing the cast of voice actors for this series, I might very well listen to the second book instead of reading it.


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[♥Milica♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

HAPPY RELEASE DAY TO HAUNTING BEAUTY!!

I would very much like to be sane about this book, but I don't think that's possible. From the get go I was sucked in, as with the other Mate Games books, but I think this one is by far my favourite.

It's a little darker, set in an asylum *ahem* wellness retreat and the patients are to die for. I fell for all of them instantly, even the minor characters (Sorchaaaaa, my new book wife, and the little yippy dog whose name we won't repeat because it's possible one of the review sites I'm posting this on won't let me proceed if we do).

In the previous two series I had one of the mates get on my bad side, so I'm really happy I'm loving everyone this time around.

I am so biased that if you asked me about my fav mate I'd say Tor, but listen, Cap'n Hook? HE COULD GET IT ANY DAY OF THE WEEK!!! He's too hot for this world, and such a delight whenever he's on page. He also has an earring and guyliner...he was written for me, mhm.

Tor is of course the perfect, protective and caring mate, one who's ready to go to war for you. What more could a girl want? I too need him to take care of me when I'm suffering through cramps.

Kai or Cain. Cain or Kai. Pick one because I can't. They're both kind of mysterious and we know the least about them (well, Cain more so than Kai), but they too stole my sanity with the way they were written.

I normally listen to audiobooks at fast speeds, but for the steamy scenes I paid extra close attention, they were CRIMINALLY well written. Like I legit had to stop what I was doing and sit there for a few minutes grinning like an idiot. Probably the hottest book so far, I SAID WHAT I SAID.

Reading this book really made my year, I swear, and it got even better when we got to see some of the characters from previous games, and some references to Meg's other series (heartbroken warrior and brainwashed assassin anyone?). The uncle Alistair mention got me, I was not prepared, I was crying my eyes out.

I also have a bunch of highlights for this read, there's so many good swoony lines I fear I'll have to get a physical copy to annotate.

Shout out to the therapy sessions too, I think they're so creative and I can't wait to see more of them. And the always present humour, oh I'm seated for more of that.

*Thank you to the authors for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Laurens.Little.Library · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 28%

Absolutely not lol. FTC

[Debra Sneddon · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNF I’m smarter than this! Jeez.

[Jess Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

We've been through War; we've survived Pestilence but what happens now that Death is the one in control of the reigns...

When K. Loraine and Meg Anne come together you know that the story is going to be epic but what makes their stories so phenomenal is their casting for narrators. Haunting Beauty was full of some of your favorite names in romance right now and if you think you know James Joseph or John Hartley, just wait. Their take on these characters is out of this world delicious!!

Blackwood Asylum is not what you would expect. A retreat for healing they like to say but it is much more, and Dahlia is not sure which way to turn. After being thrown into Blackwood for her mental health there is much more here at play than she is being told. And as if the matter of seeing ghosts isn't enough for her to deal with, she has four men after much more than her heart.

The ensemble of characters here is nothing like you've seen from the previous Mate Games. Starting with James Joseph as Hook, that wicked man brought a lighthearted fun to the story that could rival Kingston himself.

Jason Clarke as Tor really should come with a warning label or at the very least a notice to buy more batteries. If you've read some of Meg Anne's books before then you are very familiar with the specific type of beast Tor is. Not to mention the lengths that he will go to in protecting what is his.

Cain is by far the most intriguing and frustrating character out of this merry band of misfits and J.F. Harding did his character so much justice. Him getting thrown in with this mix is either going to be disastrous or very enticing.

John Hartley as Kai our resident Dragon has my entire heart!! While we don't know too much about him yet, I can tell you his character arc brings the familiarity of dragons we are accustomed to with some delicious new treats thrown in.

Our girl Dahlia is played by none other than Stella Hunter and that sass we have come to love from her is here and stronger than ever. Dahlia was thrown into this world without knowing anything but what she learned from fairytales.

I do have to give a big shoutout to Samantha Brentmoor as Dr. Masterson and Kiki. Dr. Masterson is one of those characters that should frighten you because while she seems calm and collected there is something building under the surface. Is it going to be damaging or helpful to our girl and her men? Zero clue but it is going to be entertaining to find out as The Mate Games: Death continues.

*ALC received from Audibly Addicted in exchange for my honest review. *

[D.L. Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧

First off I just wanted to to commend the merit of this audiobook and the wonderful cast who made this story come to life. One of the best audios I’ve ever listened to.

Thankfully the story was just as good. I’m not the biggest RH fan but I couldn’t help but adore every character in this crazy book. From our fair FMC to the Viking Beserker, to the pirate Hook, the dragon and of course that mystery grump with the little dog with BDE, er should I say “big dog energy.”

I laughed, I swooned and I craved those men like nobody’s business. And then you give me a murder mystery on top of all that?

I can’t wait to dig into the next one!

[Veronica Ticker · Rating 5 out of 5]

(audiobook) Those Mate Games series are really great, and each of them has a different setting–a supernatural college, a strange small town… And now an asylum, which was unexpected and interesting. Especially with various fairytales woven into the story.

Imagine thinking you’re a regular human, but ending up in an asylum for paranormal creatures after a tragic event, and discovering that you aren’t that normal after all. That’s what happens to Dahlia. I thought there was too little scepticism. I mean, you’re supposed to be surrounded by crazy people, and the ones you meet tell you they are all monsters of some sort, you would think they’re all imagining things. And yes, that happens, but Dahlia is quickly convinced. And strangely not worried at all. Of course, a lot of unexplainable things happen early in the story.

Also, she’s a writer and writes paranormal reverse harem. Ring a bell? I love mise en abyme. I’m curious about the artist’s craft, always, so if they talk about it through their art, I’m happy to peek behind the curtain. Here, Dahlia is the conduit of not one, but two authors, which makes it even more interesting. As Dahlia seems to use writing as a way to cope with her tragic past, I wonder how much of themselves the co-writers put into the character. And since Dahlia also writes about her fantasies, and unknowingly about her inner hidden–even to herself–self, they probably hint at their writing process. All very interesting things to explore.

The mise en abyme doesn’t stop there, as very well known fairytales are used, sometimes as metaphors, sometimes as themes, sometimes as character development. One of those fairytales being Beauty and the Beast–see the title–and books playing a big part in that particular story, is there even a mise en abyme in the mise en abyme? But you’ll find Peter Pan’s story referenced too, as one of the male characters is Hook. And bits of other tales here and there.

This is a story about stories. The ones we tell others, the ones we tell ourselves, the ones others try to sell us. There’s even a scene where the characters are watching a movie adaptation of a famous novel. So it makes perfect sense to have all those elements included.

But it’s also a perfectly crafted explicit–sometimes gruesome–reverse harem paranormal romance. There are multiple fantastic creatures, and unexplained events. I kind of enjoyed the general atmosphere. Since the setting is an asylum, and there’s a serial killer lurking around, it was a bit darker than the previous series, but I’m here for it. It was heavy on the sexy too, more than on the romantism, as it’s the very beginning of the series, but it’s okay. I don’t expect a slow burn in that kind of book.

The usual female narrator is back to play the main character, and I felt she fit perfectly. She’s also seconded by one of my favorite female narrators whose energy is a good complement. As for the male narrators, it sounds like the characters were written for them. It’s a perfect cast all around.

There are a lot of mysteries to unfold, and I can’t wait for the next book.

Quickie

- Series: The Mate Games: Death #1 (linked to the other Mate Games series, ends on a cliffhanger)
- Hashtags: #paranormal romance #reverse harem #fairytales #asylum #serial killer #ghosts #virgin #amnesia
- Triggers: violence and multiple deaths, mention of past cult activities
- Main “couple”: Dahlia Moore & (Tor Nordson/Caspian Hook/Malakai Nash/Cain Alexander)
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 2/5
- + I loved the setting
- – for now it’s a lot more lust and fate than love

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

*audiobook

i was left confused.

Here are 2 possible reasons:

1. this isn't a stand-alone, and i am missing a LOT of context/previous books...

Or

2. the writing is just too muddled and is not reader-friendly.

Either way, i didn't know what was going on half the time i was listening...

Also, fmc had zero chemistry with the guys...

Unsure if i will continue the series...

[Sienasummerrreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Welcome to Wonderland little rabbit. We’re all mad here.”

This follows Dahlia a well-known author who has a breakdown at a public event she has been sent to the Scottish Highlands to a wellness centre called Blackwood Estate. To others, it’s an asylum that houses villains and supernatural beasts. With a serial killer on the loose can she stay safe amongst four dangerous men? The pirate, dragon a lost soul and the beast.

Listen to the audiobook. Full cast narration which is brilliant. Accents that make you melt. Best audiobook narration I have listened to.
This book was mysterious and delicious. Dahlia is one lucky woman. These four men had me screaming. They’re possessive, protective and all entwined in her orbit with a jealous broody side. The sassy funny banter and playfulness at times Dahlia was with the boys had me laughing and smiling. Honestly, I feel like I was Kiki during the webcam call in chapter 13. Favourite men in order Tor, Kai, Cain and Caspian. TOR IS EVERYTHING.
Now down to the nitty gritty. I would have liked to see more deep dive into Dalia’s past. Why is the ripper involved and who, what’s Caspian’s sneaky side business meetings, discovering that you are a psychic and not being phased? It’s a very mysterious plot and sometimes I like to have all the answers by the end of the book but I’m left with so many questions that are not answered. We had three endings that abruptly stunted and messed with my thoughts. I’m aware there are more books and I assume we will get more answers. Looking forward to book two.

If you love:

🔹Dark Mysterious Romance
🔹Why Choose
🔹Forced Proximity
🔹Supernatural Beasts
🔹Asylum
🔹Delicious Tension and Spice

Genre/Type: Dark Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook
Audiobook Length: 9hrs 52mins
Narrators: Stella Hunter (Dahlia Moore), J.F. Harding (Cain Alexander), Jason Clarke (Tor Nordson), John Hartley (Kai Nash), James Joseph (Caspian Hook) and Samantha Brentmoor (Dr Masterson & Kiki) - Full Cast
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book One In The Mate Games Series
Tropes or Themes: Fantasy, Paranormal, Forced Proximity, Why Choose, Slow Burn, Asylum, Fae, Shifter - Dragon, Magic, Morally Grey Men, Protective and Possessive MMC’s, Grumpy MMC, Jealousy, Made Me Laugh, Tension, Banter, Mental Illness, Anxiety, Eyes On Me, Mine, Cult, Abandonment, Discusses Rape, Past Trauma, Cliffhanger, Violence, Death, Drug Use, You Can Take It, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise and Virgin
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

All Round Romance Reader 
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫

[Mona Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haunting Beauty

I am not sure where to begin because, dang, this book is amazing. I couldn't stop reading it once I started, and the audiobook? Excellent as always
This story starts off strong and just keeps going. You get sucked into this new world and just just can't stop reading. Dahlia is amazing, I adore her. And the guys we get to meet in this one? Well done ladies well done. Each of them brings something that just draws you in. Of course, it's not going to be sweet and light, so prepare yourself because a game is afoot.
If you get the chance to listen to the audiobook? Do it!!!! Full cast of characters again that will leave you breathless and wanting more.

[Tara Swan · Rating 5 out of 5]

These ladies have done it again! Death's debut already has me dying for more! The suspense, the comedy, the spice. All of it so well balanced in this stunning package that will have you wanting to read this straight through from start to finish!

And the AUDIOBOOK! Holy shit, the team has outdone themselves! They have carried in new editing styles and new voices to create a product unlike any multicast narration I have heard before. Mixing traditional narration with a well balanced touch of graphic that you just have to listen to. This elite cast has brought these characters to life and they will make you fall in love with them all. Who's ready for the next set of games because I sure am!

[Heather]

DNF @ 48% I really enjoyed the beginning of this book and the plot idea was unique. However the relationships between the FMC and MMCs just didn’t hit right to me and I can’t seem to get myself to care to see where this is going.

[Layla]

DNF @ 40%

[Merry Jayned · Rating 4 out of 5]

these books are just so fun. simple smutty fun. silly and ridiculous and fun.

[Tabitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is f*cking hot and also hilarious. I love the MFC she's all of us bookish girlies. And her friend KiKi is just fire!
And the men....oh the men....🥵🥵🥵

[Alecia Only1leesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALC Audio Review

First they gave us War, then Pestilence and now Death... K.Loriane and Meg Anne are masters at story telling . The multi cast line up does not disappoint .
Stella Hunter
Jason Clarke
John Hartley
James Joseph
JF Harding
Samantha Brentmoor

"Haunting Beauty" intricately explores Tor's journey from the envisioned hero to an unexpected and tormented monster. Tor, originally named for heroism, faces the harsh reality that his destiny is far from the noble path of his father and twin. The revelation of his depraved nature, bound by an unbreakable curse, shatters any hope for redemption. This internal struggle serves as a compelling foundation for Tor's character, creating empathy and curiosity among readers.
The narrative takes a thrilling turn when Tor's path intersects with Dahlia, a curvaceous writer situated in the eerie confines of Blackwood Asylum—a place teeming with supernatural outcasts and an unsettling aura. The introduction of potential mates adds layers of complexity to Tor's predicament. The dragon, the pirate, the lost soul, and Tor himself—the beast—form a tantalizing array of choices. This dynamic not only fuels the plot with tension but also delves into themes of identity, desire, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy.
The vivid portrayal of Dahlia as Tor's unexpected anchor, especially in the midst of his internal unraveling, adds a poignant touch to the story. As Tor grapples with losing fragments of his humanity, Dahlia emerges as the reason for clinging to the last shreds of who he once was.
"Haunting Beauty" masterfully combines supernatural elements, complex relationships, and a looming sense of danger. As a fan of K.Lorain andMeg Anne these ladies have given a vivid story that unfolds and the story is just beginning.

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay I went into this book entirely blind. Didn’t know a damn thing about anything.

The men in this series… just wow. That’s all I have to say on that.🔥

I love Dahlia, she’s a nervous talker and just rambles on in every uncomfortable situation which is super relatable.

As for the entire book as a whole, I have to give it 5 stars. There was a ghost crying in the bathroom and Dahlia named her Myrtle… IYKYK ⚡️

The whole class therapy sessions were 1) hilarious but 2) it felt like X-MEN First Class all over again when you combine a bunch of randoms in a room and hope to make it work. Idk I loved it. Can’t wait to read book 2!

[MC · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.0 / 5.0 (3/4 spice)

I was at measure equally entertained and confused by this.

The story is captivating because first, what is our FMC? Did she kill a whole movie premier or was that faked? Second, crazy stalker Jack the Ripper villain terrorizing the immortal community and apparently in pursuit of the FMC? Yes, I’d like to know more. And finally, 4 hot men but each cursed in a different way that is steeped in fairytales? You had me at “4”.

But, it is chaotic. Who are our 4 fairytale men? Clearly we have Beast from Beauty and the Beast but as a Viking demigod. Captain Hook from Peter Pan. The other two are harder to place. A dragon shifter and shadow mage? It’s hard to say and then the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are thrown in there too, just for funsies, but the whole thing is sorely lacking in world building or character development.

It’s entertaining, it’s spicy, it’s predicated on the whole pop-culture phenomenon of smut and women reclaiming a spot at the table of literary art and progression, but it’s not well written or precisely executed.

I’ll keep going, it has me hooked (no pun intended) but it’s not good enough to buy physical copies.

Until Next Time,
MC

P.s update… I have since learned this isn’t the first series in this universe. There is more (like thousands of pages more) of back-lore and lead up to this series in the metaverse of this author. I am going to continue this series and also search back and find the intro to this world.

[Jess McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Series one: Amazing
Series two: Fantastic
Series three, Book 1: Holy Hell

I grabbed this one off bookprout, because who doesn't love an asylum filled with unhinged villains. Villain mmc's with the whole touch her and die thing going on... *fans self*

This one has been interesting. There's characters in this one that we've met briefly in the previous series. I love that Dahlia doesn't quite understand what's happening to her, but fully embraces everyone else after not knowing about this side of the world.

The guys are 🥵 I love that no two are the same, but they all have that protective nature over her due to fated mates. We've got a little bit of everything in them - charming, standoffish, dickish, and of course overbearing, possessive, obsessive alphaholes.

I cannot wait till the next one because after the cliffy, I need answers.

[Catherine - mygreenlibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dahlia, Tor, Caspian, Kai & Cain 🧚🏼

This was the best audiobook I’ve ever heard! I listened on audible, and the duet-style narration and multi-cast was incredible!

Stella Hunter
Jason Clarke
J.F. Harding
John Hartley
James Joseph
Samantha Brentmoor

Tor is so possessive! Once he sets his eyes on Dahlia, he’ll do anything to keep his “Kai Rasta”.

Caspian is a shameless flirt. He leaves his mermaid hookups behind just to chase Dahlia.

Kai is obsessed with his “gem”. As the dragon he is, he hoards her favorite items.

Cain is fighting his own demons. He’s attracted to Dahlia, and he feels a connection… they may even have history, he just can’t remember.

The concept for this book was so unique! I can’t wait to read and hopefully listen to the rest of the series.

✨tropes✨
- virgin FMC
- why choose
- possessive MMC’s
- anti heroes

[Devon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just say - if you haven’t heard of the mate games series (any of them) what are you doing? And if you haven’t listened to the audio, what are you doing!!!!!??? It’s so, so good and this latest instalment is just as perfect. All the men in the RH, Dahlia, the banter, the spice - just perfection. I am so glad these are rapid release because I need more of this story please like yesterday. Go start from the beginning, listen to all the yummy accents and laugh at all the personality these characters have and report back.

Thank you SO much to the authors for this ARC ❤️

[Kyle Modschiedler · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. This was chaotic in the best way. I was so sad when it ended. Loved the FMC and how chill and go with the flow she was and all 4 of her men were awesome! DO THE AUDIO BOOK!!! Can’t wait for the next book

[Nyx And Novels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick Stats:
Buddy read with Tayla.

Format: eBook and Audiobook.

Narrators: 🎙️ Stella Hunter, J.F. Harding, Jason Clarke, John Hartley, James Joseph, Samantha Brentmoor.

Narration Style: 🎧 Full Cast

Whispersync: ✅ Yep
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Plot 💭:

Dahlia's just trying to stay out of trouble… which is hard to do when you’re sent to a haunted asylum and start attracting the attention of four insanely hot, emotionally unavailable supernatural men.

She sees the dead. The four insanely hot men see her as theirs.

Now Dahlia’s caught in the middle of a murder mystery, supernatural politics, and a whole lot of unresolved trauma (theirs and hers). From broody berserkers to silver-tongued pirates, no one at Blackwood Asylum is what they seem. Least of all her.

The shadows are watching and Dahlia might be exactly what they want.
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Audiobook 🎧:

Stella Hunter nails Dahlia’s voice. She’s vulnerable without being weak, funny without trying too hard, and carries the whole emotional arc like a pro.
Samantha Brentmoor is the perfect pick for Dahlia's BFF, Kiki. And she absolutely nails the Scottish accent of Dr Masterson.

Each of the guys have their own distinct sound.
J.F. Harding brings that soft-but-deadly intensity to Cain.
Jason Clarke goes full commanding alpha as Tor.
John Hartley is all edge and chaos as Kai.
James Joseph gives that British charm with a dangerous twist to Hook.

The production was clean, transitions were seamless, and the full cast gave it that cinematic feel. Especially the parts where the sessions were recorded. I loved that 'radio' audio touch. Honestly? This audio is worth every second.
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Sizzle Scale:

Scorching: 🔥3.5/5

The heat builds slowly but explodes once it hits. Intense, possessive, and emotional. No fade-to-black here, thank the gods.
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Book Bite:

Haunting Beauty is everything I wanted: creepy vibes, dark romance, and morally grey chaos wrapped in irresistible spice. Dahlia is the perfect “soft but not weak” heroine, and her dynamic with each of the guys is chef’s kiss.

It’s part romance, part supernatural thriller (honestly my favourite part), part found family, and somehow it works so well together. You’ll laugh, you’ll squirm, and you’ll probably develop a crush on at least three of her mates. Obsessed is an understatement.

Tropes:

✔️ Reverse Harem
✔️ Fated Mates
✔️ Paranormal Asylum Setting
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Morally Grey Men
✔️ Murder Mystery
✔️ “She’s ours” Energy
✔️ MINE
✔️ Touch Her And ⚰️

[Tammy Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio review:

I’m always down to dive back into the Mate Games world and I was even more excited for this one since I knew that Tor was going to be in it. I was so excited to get my hands on this audiobook because there is seriously no better way to consume these books. The narrators are utterly fantastic and suck me right into the world and the story. Their acting and emotions are amazing and just make me completely fall in love with the characters.

I love the fact that Dahlia is an author and has these moments of just totally losing herself in the moment because her author brain kicks on. Stella Hunter did an amazing job bringing her quirky and witty personality out. I can’t wait to find out more about Dahlia’s past and her powers.

The men in this book are just everything I could have wanted. Tor is hands down my favorite which is no surprise since his brother was my favorite in the first Mate Games series. There’s just something about a Norse demigod that steals the show for me. And the way that Jason Clarke portrays him with that beastly growl, while also showing how tormented and conflicted Tor is, was everything that I could have asked for. Caspian had be cackling with his sheer audacity and arrogance which James Joseph did an awesome job showcasing. JF Harding totally brought Cain’s personality and the mystery surrounding him and his past to life while John Hartley did the same with Kai’s possessiveness of Dahlia along with the inner fight with his dragon.

And can we talk about Samantha Brentmoor’s performance for a moment? She did such a masterful job portraying Dr. Masterson with her Scottish accent. And she had me rolling on the floor laughing as she brought Kiki to life. I feel like I need to go find some more audiobooks that she’s narrated.

If you couldn’t already tell, I absolutely loved this book, from the characters to the story to the setting. I love how K. Loraine and Meg Anne continue to make the books fresh. This may be the third series in the Mate Games world but it doesn’t feel like any of the others, and that more than anything will keep me coming back for more. I can’t wait for the next book in this series, especially because I have so many theories rolling around in my head right now and I can’t wait to see what if anything I was right about.

[Jodi - JodiReadsnListens · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Audio Review **
Am I insane for this book? Absolutely! Haunting Beauty by K. Loraine and Meg Anne was a dark, delusional, and spicy why choose paranormal romance that commanded my attention right from the start! Prep your heart to be immersed in the mysterious and seductive Mate Games world because this talented author duo delivers once again! I couldn’t get enough of Dahlia’s intense, intricate story along with all her hunky Blackwood Villians.

This audiobook is performed in multicast duet narration, and simply put...this cast is stunning and mind-blowing! Stella Hunter portrayed Dahlia’s bold and witty persona perfectly also highlighting her doubts and fears of her newfound powers. Jason Clarke brought a new level of feral growl to his performance of the beastly Tor conveying his conflicted and tormented soul. James Joseph portrayed Caspian Hook’s arrogant and cheeky persona brilliantly while John Hartley showcased Kai’s dedication to Dahlia and inner struggle with his dragon. JF Harding presented Cain with the perfect air of danger and mystery to leave me wanting more. Samantha Brentmoor’s performance of the Scottish Dr. Masterson was hypnotizing, and her portrayal of Kiki had me laughing so much. There are also some amazing audio enhancements!

Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a paranormal why choose romance with a high spirited romance author, a beastly Viking, a guyliner-wearing cocky pirate, a thieving dragon shifter, a puzzling southern gent, a sassy best friend, a concerning doctor, Blackwood Asylum, Jack the Ripper, ghosts, secrets, danger, all the spice, toying with death, and a cliffhanger ending that will leave you crazy for more, then you will love the start of the Mate Games Death series! I always look forward to more from K. Loraine and Meg Anne.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the games continue, the Mating Games that is. The next series in the universe is The Mating Games: Death with the first book being Haunting Beauty and it was glorious. I knew I was going to love it but even I was surprised by how much. I was blown away.


Delilah was complex. All kinds of awkward, she claimed to not know how to people, but she's amazing at banter, and her thought process is something to marvel at. She's ridiculously funny and doesn't follow any of the rules, never does what I'd expected her to. I freaking loved her.


Everybody loves a villain. That includes four of the most sexiest guys ever and each of them has their eye on Delilah. They fall first, they fall hard (except one who's in denial) and Del is just going with it, her and her raging hormones, haha. The guys have some major issues, all are the big and brooding, woe-is-me type and very angsty, well except for Caspian, he's delusional but at least he's sexy. Except for Kai, I know all the guys one way or another, I just got to know them better in this and I likey.


This book was written for me. A dark and sketchy atmosphere, even shadier characters, all sorts of weirdness, it was dark, and humorous, and very steamy. I loved the session tapes, they definitely made me laugh although Delila's lusty thought-spirals made me laugh even more. This whole book gave me strong Alice in Wonderland vibes which I should have expected given the quote at the beginning. Gods, this book...


Haunting Beauty was just the start I can't imagine how the rest of the series is gonna turn out. This has been my favorite book in this universe so far it's gonna be hard to top it but if anyone can do it, it's Meg and Kim.

[Christine G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I swear everything they write is magic! These ladies have a gift with words and storytelling. Hooked right off the start, in love with the characters. The banter is always so witty and makes me chuckle and smile. Reading about these broody, sexy, dark, mysterious men has me aching for more. I simply can't get enough. I will live in my happy bubble of book 1 where everything is pretty much OK, we're just getting to know each other, enjoying the angst and "will they/won't they" (not so spoiler alert... but they will.... eventually)... I'll just glaze over the cliffy and live in my happy place.... it's only gonna get more stressful from here!

[Christi Goodwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great Banter!

The pirate characters lines being the best!

Highly recommend audio on this one. Accents are perfection. When the psychiatrist has her sessions the sound switches to a cassette type recording which is quite immersive.

This book is a mash up of fairy tale, paranormal, and random characters. It was weird to me and caused some disconnection.

Not much resolution in book one.

However the author has a very creative mind which kept the pages turning.

[Celeste · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.7-2 stars / 5 stars ⭐️

how did I finish this?? I honestly have no clue. Kind of a fever dream and I’m still confused about what happened. Although, I kind of like the the pirate Caspian (Captain Hook) but the end kind of scared me.. are they going to ruin him?? Also nothing exceptionally eventful happened in over 400 almost 500 pages (on kindle).

It is what it is 🤷🏻‍♀️

[Ashlee Steinbach · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is mostly character driven and has little plot however started to build up more plot towards the very end. I listened to the audiobook version which was very well done with a massive cast and duet so highly recommend listening over reading it.