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Christmas with the Horned God
They say the abandoned Christmas tree farm is haunted.
Just Rowen’s luck that she gets stranded there on the drive to visit her overbearing mother…not that Rowen would complain. It’s easier not to rock the boat, even if her jaw aches from a life spent biting her tongue.
When she stumbles across Asher, the farm’s surly caretaker and her former flame, things are anything but easy. Getting snowed in together opens old wounds, and the past ten years have done nothing to quell the heat between them.
But Asher has a secret lurking in the woods. It watches and waits for a chance to sink its teeth into Rowen. Asher has to do everything they can to protect her, even if it means pushing her away again.
As cursed Christmas Eve approaches, Rowen and Asher must finally face their fears or let love slip away for good.
For fans of Freydís Moon and Rien Gray, this story of healing and hunger is the perfect mix of winter chill, holiday warmth, and sultry heat.
Just Rowen’s luck that she gets stranded there on the drive to visit her overbearing mother…not that Rowen would complain. It’s easier not to rock the boat, even if her jaw aches from a life spent biting her tongue.
When she stumbles across Asher, the farm’s surly caretaker and her former flame, things are anything but easy. Getting snowed in together opens old wounds, and the past ten years have done nothing to quell the heat between them.
But Asher has a secret lurking in the woods. It watches and waits for a chance to sink its teeth into Rowen. Asher has to do everything they can to protect her, even if it means pushing her away again.
As cursed Christmas Eve approaches, Rowen and Asher must finally face their fears or let love slip away for good.
For fans of Freydís Moon and Rien Gray, this story of healing and hunger is the perfect mix of winter chill, holiday warmth, and sultry heat.
211 pages, Paperback
First published December 22, 2023
9 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Aveda Vice
10 books399 followersAveda Vice (any pronouns) is a pansexual author of unconventional kink and monstrous romances. In their books, you’ll find a fondness for queer creatures, polyamorous love, and grumpy girls. She falls down rabbit holes, decorates every day like it’s Halloween, and is going to hell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 21, 2023
4.5 stars!
Getting snowed in on your ex’s isolated mountaintop never ended so spicy and…horned?? Get ready for another Aveda Vice ride. I know I'm always in for a unique and steamy time when I see a new book from this author.
Concept/Monster Element: ★★★★
Pacing: ★★★★★
Steam factor: not very steamy for me, but it's a delicious slow burn with payoff
Characters: ★★★★★
Rowen is not having a great day. She's trying to drive up an isolated mountaintop to reach her emotionally manipulative and abusive mother for the holidays—Rowen's been dealing with her mother's extreme demands for years, and even though she knows its her people pleasing skills working overdrive, she can't seem to stop.
But then the bridge she needs to cross collapses. And all the sudden, Rowen's alone and isolated in the dark of the snowy mountain with nowhere to go.
This is obviously the perfect time to have a run in with her long-lost (but never forgotten) ex, who has changed quite a bit since Rowen's last seen them. They're large and in charge, and they go by Asher now.
Rowen can't seem to stop looking. And her feelings, barely buried, are quick to resurface as she finds herself trapped with Asher in their rustic cabin waiting out the storm for help.
There's no better place to hash out old wounds than an isolated cabin, right?? (This is going to go well...)
However, all is not well for Asher. They've got a secret, and its not something they want Rowen to know. There's an Otherworldly presence that isn't going to let Asher rest, and once its got a lock on Rowen, Asher's terrified things will get much worse.
Cue the DRAMA! But wait, actually no—cue an amazing slow burn, second chance, semi-angsty but mostly sweet romance set in the snow during the holidays instead.
Christmas with the Horned God was both not what I was expecting and yet an amazing festive read that I found myself falling head over heels for instead. I came for the high steam factor I associate with Aveda Vice. But I stayed for the awesome emotional character building and complex wins. This was so sweet and I just spent most of the time wanting to wrap both Rowen and Asher into one big hug and never let go.
Don't get me wrong, there ARE several fun smexy scenes here. But they're not the core of the story, and I found myself actually loving this novel for that reason. Vice continues to surprise me, and I'm more than happy to let them.
A fun, festive read for those of us who enjoy happy queer monster tales!
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
Getting snowed in on your ex’s isolated mountaintop never ended so spicy and…horned?? Get ready for another Aveda Vice ride. I know I'm always in for a unique and steamy time when I see a new book from this author.
Concept/Monster Element: ★★★★
Pacing: ★★★★★
Steam factor: not very steamy for me, but it's a delicious slow burn with payoff
Characters: ★★★★★
Rowen is not having a great day. She's trying to drive up an isolated mountaintop to reach her emotionally manipulative and abusive mother for the holidays—Rowen's been dealing with her mother's extreme demands for years, and even though she knows its her people pleasing skills working overdrive, she can't seem to stop.
But then the bridge she needs to cross collapses. And all the sudden, Rowen's alone and isolated in the dark of the snowy mountain with nowhere to go.
This is obviously the perfect time to have a run in with her long-lost (but never forgotten) ex, who has changed quite a bit since Rowen's last seen them. They're large and in charge, and they go by Asher now.
Rowen can't seem to stop looking. And her feelings, barely buried, are quick to resurface as she finds herself trapped with Asher in their rustic cabin waiting out the storm for help.
There's no better place to hash out old wounds than an isolated cabin, right?? (This is going to go well...)
However, all is not well for Asher. They've got a secret, and its not something they want Rowen to know. There's an Otherworldly presence that isn't going to let Asher rest, and once its got a lock on Rowen, Asher's terrified things will get much worse.
Cue the DRAMA! But wait, actually no—cue an amazing slow burn, second chance, semi-angsty but mostly sweet romance set in the snow during the holidays instead.
Christmas with the Horned God was both not what I was expecting and yet an amazing festive read that I found myself falling head over heels for instead. I came for the high steam factor I associate with Aveda Vice. But I stayed for the awesome emotional character building and complex wins. This was so sweet and I just spent most of the time wanting to wrap both Rowen and Asher into one big hug and never let go.
Don't get me wrong, there ARE several fun smexy scenes here. But they're not the core of the story, and I found myself actually loving this novel for that reason. Vice continues to surprise me, and I'm more than happy to let them.
A fun, festive read for those of us who enjoy happy queer monster tales!
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
December 7, 2025
i'm not a big second chance reader, so the trope wasn't really for me. i also am not a big fan of folk horror (as an environmentalist, i'm camp nature did nothing wrong / don't care for it horror-ized) so this was an uphill battle for me but out of personal preference than anything else.
good rep (trans enby mc) and spice, just was expecting this to be monsterfucker rather than PNR between humans w a dash of monster.
good rep (trans enby mc) and spice, just was expecting this to be monsterfucker rather than PNR between humans w a dash of monster.
January 10, 2024
This book got me so emotional 🥹💕 this HAS to be one of my favourite friends to lovers romance.
Christmas with the Horned God was full of heart-aching love and second chances. It was one of those stories that explores the depths of self-discovery and believing in yourself in a way that I think was really well done. Now excuse me while I recover from this book jekdkeke
Christmas with the Horned God was full of heart-aching love and second chances. It was one of those stories that explores the depths of self-discovery and believing in yourself in a way that I think was really well done. Now excuse me while I recover from this book jekdkeke
December 22, 2023
"I know you. I knew you ten years ago. I haven't stopped."
There is something truly special about this novella. I related heavily to both Rowen and Asher’s journey’s of healing. The way Aveda writes each of their journey’s is absolutely remarkable. The romance is everything you want it to be, the holiday vibes are immaculate, there’s a fun creepy element at play, the plot is more complex than you would expect, PLEASE GO READ THIS 😭🫶
❄️Rowen is plus size & Asher is nonbinary
❄️Second chance romance
❄️Creepy/cozy vibes
❄️Angst for dayssss
❄️Personal healing
❄️Grumpy/Sunshine
❄️Does it count as a threesome if it includes the forest god who’s possessing you? (Lmao)
**Check CW’s if needed**
Thanks to the author for the arc copy! 💖
There is something truly special about this novella. I related heavily to both Rowen and Asher’s journey’s of healing. The way Aveda writes each of their journey’s is absolutely remarkable. The romance is everything you want it to be, the holiday vibes are immaculate, there’s a fun creepy element at play, the plot is more complex than you would expect, PLEASE GO READ THIS 😭🫶
❄️Rowen is plus size & Asher is nonbinary
❄️Second chance romance
❄️Creepy/cozy vibes
❄️Angst for dayssss
❄️Personal healing
❄️Grumpy/Sunshine
❄️Does it count as a threesome if it includes the forest god who’s possessing you? (Lmao)
**Check CW’s if needed**
Thanks to the author for the arc copy! 💖
December 28, 2025
The first 80% of this book was pure (partially resolved) sexual tension and non-communication (not even miscommunication), and then the final 20% contained a rushed resolution and the saddest excuse for an epilogue I've seen in quite some time. A second-chance romance based on references to the past and sexual tension doesn't work. We need at least some communication about how the couple is going to make it work this time. Just having sex without talking to each other doesn't count.
December 17, 2025
The title tells the whole story.
December 24, 2023
3.5⭐️ No one tackles discussions of gender with as much nuance and talent as Aveda Vice. Full RTC
November 25, 2024
Oh my. A delightfully spooky and erotic monster-y Christmas novella taking place where the wild things are. I wanted to know more about the deep magic of the place but I suppose the vagueness is part of the point.
December 11, 2024
Overall ⭐️⭐️/5
Spicy content 🌶🌶/5
This book is a cute and cozy, quick read that has a strong focus on LGBTQ+ representation, which I find fantastic, it is beautifully woven into the entire narrative of this story but is done so in a very tasteful manner. This inclusivity is a highlight of this book and adds depth and authenticity to the story.
I loved the relationship between Asher and Rowan, and it is truly heartwarming and easily, in my opinion, the best aspect of this book. Their dynamic is tender, passionate, and compelling, while providing moments of connection and charm that resonated with me and made me want to read more about them
However, the overall story just didn’t quite land for me. While I appreciated the representation and the relationship between Rowan and Asher, a lot of other elements in this story and the plot didn’t fully capture my interest. This purely may be more about my own curse of being a mood reader rather than the quality of the story itself, and I encourage everyone to give this book a chance! You never know this could very well become your next five-star read.
If you're looking for a festive, inclusive romance with endearing characters, Christmas with the Horned God might just be the perfect book to cozy up with this holiday season.
Spicy content 🌶🌶/5
This book is a cute and cozy, quick read that has a strong focus on LGBTQ+ representation, which I find fantastic, it is beautifully woven into the entire narrative of this story but is done so in a very tasteful manner. This inclusivity is a highlight of this book and adds depth and authenticity to the story.
I loved the relationship between Asher and Rowan, and it is truly heartwarming and easily, in my opinion, the best aspect of this book. Their dynamic is tender, passionate, and compelling, while providing moments of connection and charm that resonated with me and made me want to read more about them
However, the overall story just didn’t quite land for me. While I appreciated the representation and the relationship between Rowan and Asher, a lot of other elements in this story and the plot didn’t fully capture my interest. This purely may be more about my own curse of being a mood reader rather than the quality of the story itself, and I encourage everyone to give this book a chance! You never know this could very well become your next five-star read.
If you're looking for a festive, inclusive romance with endearing characters, Christmas with the Horned God might just be the perfect book to cozy up with this holiday season.
December 22, 2023
This holiday monster romance is everything I needed to read this holiday season! It has the perfect combination of cozy and creepy vibes to keep your twisted little minds enraptured. It is a second chance romance of sorts as the characters were previously holiday season flings. It has LGBTQIA+ representation with a relationship that is between a woman and a nonbinary person. (I hope I am using the right terms. Please respectfully correct me if I'm not.) Personally, I'm a sucker for the forced proximity trope being snowed in together has to be one of my favorite microtropes! I also really loved the story behind the curse and the duskwalker like attributes of the monster but make it creepier. The detail used throughout was perfection, and I'm looking forward to what Aveda releases next already.
My heat rating is based on the amount of occurrence, length of scenes, and how filthy/unconventional the scenes are. I think this rates a steady 3/5 🌶.
My heat rating is based on the amount of occurrence, length of scenes, and how filthy/unconventional the scenes are. I think this rates a steady 3/5 🌶.
December 11, 2024
Book Rating : ⭐️⭐️
I have no idea where to start or what to say. I was really Book Rating : ⭐️⭐️
I have no idea where to start or what to say. I was really excited to read this as the premise sounded so good but unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me.
I’m so upset I didn’t enjoy this book, I didn’t connect with the characters and just felt a bit meh about the whole thing. I did love the LGBTQ+ representation and thought it was done quite well in this and I loved the cozy tree farm cabin atmosphere of the book.
I do think it might be right book wrong time as I am sort of going through a reading slump so I might give this book another chance maybe same time next year and see how I feel about it then.
I definitely think if you’re looking for a good fun, cozy, Christmas read for around this time of year then this one might be one you enjoy.
Happy reading xx
I have no idea where to start or what to say. I was really Book Rating : ⭐️⭐️
I have no idea where to start or what to say. I was really excited to read this as the premise sounded so good but unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me.
I’m so upset I didn’t enjoy this book, I didn’t connect with the characters and just felt a bit meh about the whole thing. I did love the LGBTQ+ representation and thought it was done quite well in this and I loved the cozy tree farm cabin atmosphere of the book.
I do think it might be right book wrong time as I am sort of going through a reading slump so I might give this book another chance maybe same time next year and see how I feel about it then.
I definitely think if you’re looking for a good fun, cozy, Christmas read for around this time of year then this one might be one you enjoy.
Happy reading xx
December 15, 2023
I received an early copy via the author’s Patreon.
Aveda Vice is one of my top favorite authors, and their prose just hits so good for me. One of the very first things in this book I fell in love with was how Rowen’s described, as a loaf of bread rising in the oven, and something about that just hit perfectly, a homey quality and also a desirous element to describing her fatness that way. I also love how much this book is cyclic and reflection on hunger - for another, to be oneself, to not be alone. It’s just so beautiful and wonderful and it worked so well. Highly recommend!
Aveda Vice is one of my top favorite authors, and their prose just hits so good for me. One of the very first things in this book I fell in love with was how Rowen’s described, as a loaf of bread rising in the oven, and something about that just hit perfectly, a homey quality and also a desirous element to describing her fatness that way. I also love how much this book is cyclic and reflection on hunger - for another, to be oneself, to not be alone. It’s just so beautiful and wonderful and it worked so well. Highly recommend!
December 20, 2023
I received an ARC from the author and an voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was beautiful. The prose was deep and meaningful and the characters relatable and heartbreaking. Rowen broke my heart with her need to cater to everyone around her because of an abusive mother. Asher was the perfect foil for her: keeping everyone out and lashing out at those who get close. The transformative symbolism involved in coming out was on point.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: homophobia (off page), transphobia (off page), emotional abuse, gore, animal attack
This book was beautiful. The prose was deep and meaningful and the characters relatable and heartbreaking. Rowen broke my heart with her need to cater to everyone around her because of an abusive mother. Asher was the perfect foil for her: keeping everyone out and lashing out at those who get close. The transformative symbolism involved in coming out was on point.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: homophobia (off page), transphobia (off page), emotional abuse, gore, animal attack
December 24, 2023
Okay but the way this book put me in a chokehold.
It’s giving all the dark yule creepy vibes, but somehow STILL SO COZY. You’ve got angst, tension, NB and plus sized representation, and the some dang spiceeee to top it off. The characters were relatable and their journey was thoughtful and so well written.
I am at a loss for words, I just loved this whole story so much.
It’s giving all the dark yule creepy vibes, but somehow STILL SO COZY. You’ve got angst, tension, NB and plus sized representation, and the some dang spiceeee to top it off. The characters were relatable and their journey was thoughtful and so well written.
I am at a loss for words, I just loved this whole story so much.
did-not-finish
December 31, 2023DNF @ 77%
I was so close to finishing but ah... I was really into it, but as usual I think Aveda's pacing kind of lost me and I just stopped picking it up (same thing happened while reading Inextricably Tied, though I did finish that one in the end).
If I did finish it I probably would have given it 4 stars, but I think this book was a bit too long to be carried by only two characters.
I was so close to finishing but ah... I was really into it, but as usual I think Aveda's pacing kind of lost me and I just stopped picking it up (same thing happened while reading Inextricably Tied, though I did finish that one in the end).
If I did finish it I probably would have given it 4 stars, but I think this book was a bit too long to be carried by only two characters.
December 27, 2024
*3.75/5 stars
aveda vice's take on a christmas romance? say less
aveda vice's take on a christmas romance? say less
December 10, 2024
Beautiful prose, amazing representation (as always), and creepy, yet cozy, monster holiday romance.
January 5, 2024
This second-chance romance unfolded against a festive backdrop, weaving together warmth, magic, and a hint of the unexpected. Vice's storytelling prowess shines, crafting characters with depth and emotions that resonate. While not my usual preference (not a second-chance girlie), the narrative's charm and angst were too good.
ARC provided by the author.
ARC provided by the author.
April 21, 2025
3.5 stars.
Okay, so I have many thoughts about this book. I wanted it to be a 4 star so badly, but something in it ruined it for me, which I'll get to later. First off, I want to say thank you to Book Box AU because I received this book in the Christmas Advent Calender box from them at the end of last year.
This is my first time reading an Aveda Vice book, and I must say I loved her writing style. I loved the second-chance romance element, seeing the dynamic between Rowen and Asher as well as their history, and how clearly they still have feelings for each other even after 10 years. I loved how much Asher tried to help Rowen stand up for herself, and how much Rowen tried to reassure Asher that she loves them.
I feel like I really connected to Rowen's character with her difficulties saying no and her people pleasing tendencies, and I love how Asher was able to bring her out of her shell.
I felt that the trans representation with Asher was done really well and I found it interesting to see how their gender dysphoria impacted things like intimacy. It does upset me a bit knowing that the only reason Asher isn't as dysphoric as they used to be is because they're too stressed about the curse and they feel worse about that than their gendered body, because the gender dysphoria did still come back during intimacy. I hope that Asher being more comfortable about in the epilogue also extends to them feeling more comfortable in their body in general.
This book made me feel so many emotions, and I really did love most of it. But the ending? That's what did it for me with my rating. It got to the last 40 pages and I was so scared with how it was going to end because I didn't know how Vice could possibly wrap it up that quickly. I was honestly scared that one of them was going to die because that's where it seemed like it was going, and I really didn't want that. Now I think maybe that would have been a better ending, because I was unsatisfied with what she left us:
I know that it wasn't intended to be the that heals everything, and it's more so the fact that
Honestly, I like the idea of the intention. I do think it makes sense for that to be how because it's linked to why in the first place. But the execution was horrible, and I think the at the end was completely unnecessary and made it seem more like that was what fixed everything instead of what I'm assuming the intention was.
Overall, I did really enjoy most of the book, but that part right at the end is preventing me from giving it 4 stars. I'm going to throw in two adorable quotes here showcasing Asher and Rowen's love to make me forget the ending and remember the parts I did love about the writing.
I told you, I want all of you. Every part. Every iteration.
Okay, so I have many thoughts about this book. I wanted it to be a 4 star so badly, but something in it ruined it for me, which I'll get to later. First off, I want to say thank you to Book Box AU because I received this book in the Christmas Advent Calender box from them at the end of last year.
This is my first time reading an Aveda Vice book, and I must say I loved her writing style. I loved the second-chance romance element, seeing the dynamic between Rowen and Asher as well as their history, and how clearly they still have feelings for each other even after 10 years. I loved how much Asher tried to help Rowen stand up for herself, and how much Rowen tried to reassure Asher that she loves them.
I feel like I really connected to Rowen's character with her difficulties saying no and her people pleasing tendencies, and I love how Asher was able to bring her out of her shell.
Its heart still beat all these years. It still popped into her thoughts when she least wanted it, when a man tucked her hair behind her ear and said she was the perfect woman: pretty and quiet. When a date complimented how easy she was to get along with, because she never voiced her opinions. When a boyfriend admired her loyalty, obedience, and forgiveness, as if she were a dog instead of a woman.
The dying creature cried mournfully until it was all Rowen could here: Asher knew you better than this. Asher didn't want you to cut yourself down just to please them, Asher wanted you wild.
I felt that the trans representation with Asher was done really well and I found it interesting to see how their gender dysphoria impacted things like intimacy. It does upset me a bit knowing that the only reason Asher isn't as dysphoric as they used to be is because they're too stressed about the curse and they feel worse about that than their gendered body, because the gender dysphoria did still come back during intimacy. I hope that Asher being more comfortable about in the epilogue also extends to them feeling more comfortable in their body in general.
This book made me feel so many emotions, and I really did love most of it. But the ending? That's what did it for me with my rating. It got to the last 40 pages and I was so scared with how it was going to end because I didn't know how Vice could possibly wrap it up that quickly. I was honestly scared that one of them was going to die because that's where it seemed like it was going, and I really didn't want that. Now I think maybe that would have been a better ending, because I was unsatisfied with what she left us:
I know that it wasn't intended to be the that heals everything, and it's more so the fact that
Honestly, I like the idea of the intention. I do think it makes sense for that to be how because it's linked to why in the first place. But the execution was horrible, and I think the at the end was completely unnecessary and made it seem more like that was what fixed everything instead of what I'm assuming the intention was.
Overall, I did really enjoy most of the book, but that part right at the end is preventing me from giving it 4 stars. I'm going to throw in two adorable quotes here showcasing Asher and Rowen's love to make me forget the ending and remember the parts I did love about the writing.
I will never let you have her. Asher keeps the vision of Rowen at the front of their mind. Every animal in the forest will tear me apart before you get near her.
"I want to help you because I love you. because I want to be with you. Because I've spent so long without you, and it just makes everything...less. Less happy. Less real. I'm less of myself when I'm not with you. This is for me too." "I made my choice. No matter where you run, I will follow. As long as it takes."
December 29, 2023
F/NBi, Christmas, Monster, 3rd Dual POV
Status: Non-KU, Standalone, Third Act Conflict - , Reproduction
Rowen: FMC, Plus Size, Early 30s, People Pleaser, Deals with a Narcissistic and Emotionally/ Verbally Abusive Mother, Office Job
Asher: NBi MC, They/Them, Early 30s, Tattoos, Owns a Dog, Caretaker for an Abandoned Lodge, Celibate for ~10 Years,
Rep: Plus Size FMC, NBi MC, Trans Affirming During Sexual Encounters
Own Voices: Gender-diverse
Notes: Snowed In, Second Chances, Spooky Christmas Vibes, Posession and Curse, Scrooge x Festive, Personal Healing, Use of Symbolism,
Sex Notes:
CWs:
Status: Non-KU, Standalone, Third Act Conflict - , Reproduction
Rowen: FMC, Plus Size, Early 30s, People Pleaser, Deals with a Narcissistic and Emotionally/ Verbally Abusive Mother, Office Job
Asher: NBi MC, They/Them, Early 30s, Tattoos, Owns a Dog, Caretaker for an Abandoned Lodge, Celibate for ~10 Years,
Rep: Plus Size FMC, NBi MC, Trans Affirming During Sexual Encounters
Own Voices: Gender-diverse
Notes: Snowed In, Second Chances, Spooky Christmas Vibes, Posession and Curse, Scrooge x Festive, Personal Healing, Use of Symbolism,
Sex Notes:
CWs:
February 10, 2024
2/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It's nice to have read another Aveda book before the year ends. Personally, I find the backstory for how Asher became what they are to be somewhat lacking. Everything related to the curse and the Horned God was divulge near the end and I find that personally unsatisfying. The character development of Rowen was there and it makes sense, however, I find her growing a backbone happened too late already.
This book also did not gave the Christmas vibes for me. I think the book wants to have both the Christmas vibe and the monster romance thing but upon execution, both elements did not complement each other that well, at least for me. The second chance romance was okay, but I wished their resolution was juicier and have something more going on.
Overall, I'm sad because I came to this book expecting another banger from the author given that their previous releases were an all-out 5 stars to me back to back to back to back. But I guess this just means that I love the full out monster furry romance from them than books like these with human love interest lol.
If you're not like me, a monster (furry) romance connoisseur, and/or you're a beginner in this subgenre of romance, I'll recommend this book to you since it still involved humans for the most part and it feels like it's dabbing a little bit to the weird and bonkers monster fucking thing but is still not quite there. It's like monster romance, but PG.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It's nice to have read another Aveda book before the year ends. Personally, I find the backstory for how Asher became what they are to be somewhat lacking. Everything related to the curse and the Horned God was divulge near the end and I find that personally unsatisfying. The character development of Rowen was there and it makes sense, however, I find her growing a backbone happened too late already.
This book also did not gave the Christmas vibes for me. I think the book wants to have both the Christmas vibe and the monster romance thing but upon execution, both elements did not complement each other that well, at least for me. The second chance romance was okay, but I wished their resolution was juicier and have something more going on.
Overall, I'm sad because I came to this book expecting another banger from the author given that their previous releases were an all-out 5 stars to me back to back to back to back. But I guess this just means that I love the full out monster furry romance from them than books like these with human love interest lol.
If you're not like me, a monster (furry) romance connoisseur, and/or you're a beginner in this subgenre of romance, I'll recommend this book to you since it still involved humans for the most part and it feels like it's dabbing a little bit to the weird and bonkers monster fucking thing but is still not quite there. It's like monster romance, but PG.
December 15, 2023
I can always count on Aveda Vice to infuse symbolism to talk about self-discovery. You know if people just see Asher as grumpy you would miss the point. The decisions they had to make to protect themselves and those they loved (while a little misguided) was rooted in past experiences, isolation made sense. The symbolism of dying creatures hunting them made me think while Asher's outward appearance "changed", the hurt (the hidden) was still present never giving them peace until they acknowledged perhaps healing from it. Asher's pain was very present and heartbreaking.
Now Miss people pleasing Rowen I was rooting for her because the weight of perfectionism is awful. One thing I don't think that was resolved for me was her ending. Was it part of "The Voice" plan to change Rowen to? Idk I could have missed it because I was crying towards the end. I also wasn't sure about the sacrifice, I'm still processing this part. The care Rowen showed when they got down and asking Asher what they preferred was chef's kiss. Also the reason behind Asher's name cue the tears.
Overall, this was a nice break from the traditional Xmas story, that still filled the cozy vibes because it was a slow burn situation.
CN: verbally abusive parent, transphobic parents, terminal illness, drugs, on-page dead animals, body dysmorphia (I think) or at least body image concerns on-page, dementia, nursing home
Now Miss people pleasing Rowen I was rooting for her because the weight of perfectionism is awful. One thing I don't think that was resolved for me was her ending. Was it part of "The Voice" plan to change Rowen to? Idk I could have missed it because I was crying towards the end. I also wasn't sure about the sacrifice, I'm still processing this part. The care Rowen showed when they got down and asking Asher what they preferred was chef's kiss. Also the reason behind Asher's name cue the tears.
Overall, this was a nice break from the traditional Xmas story, that still filled the cozy vibes because it was a slow burn situation.
CN: verbally abusive parent, transphobic parents, terminal illness, drugs, on-page dead animals, body dysmorphia (I think) or at least body image concerns on-page, dementia, nursing home
December 16, 2023
"No matter where you go after this, you're still mine. You've always been mine. You're always — gonna — fucking — be — mine ."
I'd like to thank Aveda Vice for an advance early copy for my honest and voluntary review
This book was everything I did not know I needed, but everything I could have possibly ever wanted. This book has EVERYTHING. Second chance, a bit of horror, spice, romance, forgiveness, learning to accept yourself, learning to stand-up for yourself... honestly I could go on forever. Asher using they/them pronouns and I truly just wanted to give them a hug and tell them that there was nothing wrong with them. I found the whole relationship between the Horned God and Asher very symbolic. The author did a phenomenal job weaving that story. Asher and Rowan tore my heart about and pieced it back together the entire time I read this. I was rooting not only for their relationship, but their own internal journey they had to overcome.
I can't scream about this book enough. I'm definitely recommending this to all my friends. This might have been my first Aveda Vice book, but it definitely won't be my last.
I'd like to thank Aveda Vice for an advance early copy for my honest and voluntary review
This book was everything I did not know I needed, but everything I could have possibly ever wanted. This book has EVERYTHING. Second chance, a bit of horror, spice, romance, forgiveness, learning to accept yourself, learning to stand-up for yourself... honestly I could go on forever. Asher using they/them pronouns and I truly just wanted to give them a hug and tell them that there was nothing wrong with them. I found the whole relationship between the Horned God and Asher very symbolic. The author did a phenomenal job weaving that story. Asher and Rowan tore my heart about and pieced it back together the entire time I read this. I was rooting not only for their relationship, but their own internal journey they had to overcome.
I can't scream about this book enough. I'm definitely recommending this to all my friends. This might have been my first Aveda Vice book, but it definitely won't be my last.
January 7, 2024
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This was a great read and I loved the paranormal elements. Vice does a great job at really building up the complicated relationship between Rowen and Asher and I loved how we get snippets of their time together back in the day. The tension between the two is palpable and is delicious when it turns from animosity to desire. I appreciated how we got both POVs so we could see how this surprise second chance situation was messing with both of their heads. This was probably the most emotional read of this round of romances but I thought Vice did a fantastic job of handling these more sensitive topics. I found myself wanting to see more of the horror elements of what was happening out on the mountain - we were either stuck in the cabin with Rowen or following Asher while they were stuck in their own head. I was just really intrigued by the paranormal/magical elements and wanted more of them.
Thanks to the author for the ARC. Publication date was December 22, 2023
This was a great read and I loved the paranormal elements. Vice does a great job at really building up the complicated relationship between Rowen and Asher and I loved how we get snippets of their time together back in the day. The tension between the two is palpable and is delicious when it turns from animosity to desire. I appreciated how we got both POVs so we could see how this surprise second chance situation was messing with both of their heads. This was probably the most emotional read of this round of romances but I thought Vice did a fantastic job of handling these more sensitive topics. I found myself wanting to see more of the horror elements of what was happening out on the mountain - we were either stuck in the cabin with Rowen or following Asher while they were stuck in their own head. I was just really intrigued by the paranormal/magical elements and wanted more of them.
Thanks to the author for the ARC. Publication date was December 22, 2023
December 20, 2023
♾️ - all of the stars - Aveda can have them all!!!
Firstly, thank you Aveda for the ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) - reminder to look over the TW/CW, you know your limits
If I could give a book infinite stars I would - technically, this is a novella yet somehow it fully immersed me into this story.
WOW - I mean truly Aveda made such dark, beautiful magic happen with this one!
I really had no idea what to anticipate other than the general tropes, and was looking for something bring me the holiday spirit. This! DID THAT & then some. Maybe it’s the element of something dark & haunted? Or the mystical curse? Could be the second chance romance? The incredible spice?? Oh, or maybe it’s the beyond beautiful character development???
I’m going with D, all the above.
Let’s also note queer & non-binary rep, as well as plus sized rep
I will not shut up about this novella for the foreseeable future - if there’s a holiday story you need, let it be this one. Beyond magical!
Firstly, thank you Aveda for the ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) - reminder to look over the TW/CW, you know your limits
If I could give a book infinite stars I would - technically, this is a novella yet somehow it fully immersed me into this story.
WOW - I mean truly Aveda made such dark, beautiful magic happen with this one!
I really had no idea what to anticipate other than the general tropes, and was looking for something bring me the holiday spirit. This! DID THAT & then some. Maybe it’s the element of something dark & haunted? Or the mystical curse? Could be the second chance romance? The incredible spice?? Oh, or maybe it’s the beyond beautiful character development???
I’m going with D, all the above.
Let’s also note queer & non-binary rep, as well as plus sized rep
I will not shut up about this novella for the foreseeable future - if there’s a holiday story you need, let it be this one. Beyond magical!
December 11, 2024
How have I forgotten the absolute honor and privilege it is to be able to read an Aveda Vice book?!? 🫶🏼 genuinely one of the authors that is so consistent in bringing out 10/10, absolutely no faults, inclusive, and hard-hitting books.
I loved Asher and Rowen so, so, SO! much. The non-binary rep was just… to die for. I am hit hard with this one. The portrayal of their body, tattoos, the way rowen navigated their physical moments, everything was just so spot on. The reason they chose the name.. Asher 😭😭😭 the rowan berry tattoos 😭 god. This book was so detail oriented and full of longing.
I like books for the characters, but the plot of this was one so phenomenal as well. The VOICE as the god of the woods also being a metaphor for your own inner sabotage is just so spot on. There are layers on layer on LAYERS to this book and I am just so glad I picked it up.
As always, Aveda, you have snatched my soul. 🖤🖤
I loved Asher and Rowen so, so, SO! much. The non-binary rep was just… to die for. I am hit hard with this one. The portrayal of their body, tattoos, the way rowen navigated their physical moments, everything was just so spot on. The reason they chose the name.. Asher 😭😭😭 the rowan berry tattoos 😭 god. This book was so detail oriented and full of longing.
I like books for the characters, but the plot of this was one so phenomenal as well. The VOICE as the god of the woods also being a metaphor for your own inner sabotage is just so spot on. There are layers on layer on LAYERS to this book and I am just so glad I picked it up.
As always, Aveda, you have snatched my soul. 🖤🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2024
This was the kind of Christmas book I was needing right now. I had never heard of Aveda Vice before this but I guarantee I will be reading more from them now. This book had everything, plus size rep, over 30 FMC, enby love interest, tattoos, light kink, monsters, creepy cabin in the woods, and was trans affirming. On top of that, the writing was impeccable. I was so drawn in that I didn't even notice that I read so much of the book before there was any spice. This was probably the least spicy book I have read lately but it was written so well that the slow burn felt extra burn-y by the time I got to it. My only complaint was that I wanted so much more. I knew going in that the reviews said it was a novella but when I got to the end I was so sad that it was over. Great job Aveda Vice, I can't wait to read the rest of what you have to offer.
January 4, 2025
The pacing of this book was a bit slow. I found myself doing more skimming than reading in the last quarter of the book. I wish that the lore of the curse would have been deeper and more explicitly revealed. It was a bit frustrating as a reader to have little to no information about it until the very end of the book. This felt like a lazy and uncreative attempt to keep me interested.
I also would have liked more paranormal elements in this book. The bulk of the story feels very human and mundane. I did appreciate that many of the paranormal elements leaned more towards a folk horror vibe than a silly fantasy vibe. I think I would have liked this book more if it had been written with the intention of being a paranormal horror story with mature scenes.
I also would have liked more paranormal elements in this book. The bulk of the story feels very human and mundane. I did appreciate that many of the paranormal elements leaned more towards a folk horror vibe than a silly fantasy vibe. I think I would have liked this book more if it had been written with the intention of being a paranormal horror story with mature scenes.
December 18, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
This books was a wonderful, creepy, heartbreaking, hopeful, and spicy package. I had a fantastic time reading Rowen and Asher’s story. Watching these two idiots (lovingly) pine for each other was *chef’s kiss* and the pay off was well worth the wait. Rowen and Asher were wonderful MCs. While things in this book were fantastical they both felt very grounded and aspects of both really hit close to home for me. I enjoyed watching these two come back together and to themselves. Aveda did a great job balancing the heavy with the light and touching into topics that can be difficult.
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This books was a wonderful, creepy, heartbreaking, hopeful, and spicy package. I had a fantastic time reading Rowen and Asher’s story. Watching these two idiots (lovingly) pine for each other was *chef’s kiss* and the pay off was well worth the wait. Rowen and Asher were wonderful MCs. While things in this book were fantastical they both felt very grounded and aspects of both really hit close to home for me. I enjoyed watching these two come back together and to themselves. Aveda did a great job balancing the heavy with the light and touching into topics that can be difficult.
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
December 22, 2023
It's always 'You're kinda cool' and never 'I love you every iteration'.
Very few authors walk the fine line between horny monsters and existential prose as well as Aveda Vice. There is so much here about the pain of unrequited love and how it can teach us that we ourselves are to blame for what never came to pass. About the treacherous road to self-discovery and the fear that the people you love will reject your identity. About believing in your strength when no one else seems to.
But there's also a horned (and horny) mountain deity and the woman they've been pining after for a decade snowed in a small cabin... And things get steamy.
Thank you for the ARC copy!
Very few authors walk the fine line between horny monsters and existential prose as well as Aveda Vice. There is so much here about the pain of unrequited love and how it can teach us that we ourselves are to blame for what never came to pass. About the treacherous road to self-discovery and the fear that the people you love will reject your identity. About believing in your strength when no one else seems to.
But there's also a horned (and horny) mountain deity and the woman they've been pining after for a decade snowed in a small cabin... And things get steamy.
Thank you for the ARC copy!
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