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Monsters of Graves Academy #1
Zodiac Hybrids
Be careful when you wish upon the stars, Baby Doll
All I wanted was to go to a good college and finally get my life started. Maybe meet someone, get my degree, do something I'm passionate about.
I just wish someone had told me that my Physics professor could feed on my emotions and desires, the guy who sits next to me in Astrology Club would be hiding his fangs, and my first friend would have a secret of his own. An incubus and a Vampire should have been manageable, up until their bloodlines were mixed with an unpredictable race of Zodiac Shifters.
But I'm human.
I'm not part of their cursed Astrology.
The stars do not rule my life.
I didn't even know these things were real until last week.
But it's hard to argue with reality when an encounter on the night of the full moon left me as not such a Virgo anymore.
I don't know why Marcus, Adrian, and Ceto have all set their sights on me, but just because they're vicious and powerful, doesn't mean I'll be letting them get their way.
Zodiac Hybrids (Monsters of Graves Academy book 1) is a Paranormal Dark Academia Romance set in a college where supernatural creatures hide in plain sight. You'll love it if you enjoy mixing the principles of horoscopes and astrology in your romance, and you prefer your enemies to lovers, student/teacher, and monster romances with a mix of self-discovery and possessive, morally gray men who decided that no one else can have their very, very "good girl."
This story exists within Anni Lee's Graves Academy Shifterverse, first established in the MM+ series Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac and The Zodiac Werewolf. All books within the multiverse are entirely independent, and there's no need to read previous stories to enjoy Zodiac Hybrids,
All I wanted was to go to a good college and finally get my life started. Maybe meet someone, get my degree, do something I'm passionate about.
I just wish someone had told me that my Physics professor could feed on my emotions and desires, the guy who sits next to me in Astrology Club would be hiding his fangs, and my first friend would have a secret of his own. An incubus and a Vampire should have been manageable, up until their bloodlines were mixed with an unpredictable race of Zodiac Shifters.
But I'm human.
I'm not part of their cursed Astrology.
The stars do not rule my life.
I didn't even know these things were real until last week.
But it's hard to argue with reality when an encounter on the night of the full moon left me as not such a Virgo anymore.
I don't know why Marcus, Adrian, and Ceto have all set their sights on me, but just because they're vicious and powerful, doesn't mean I'll be letting them get their way.
Zodiac Hybrids (Monsters of Graves Academy book 1) is a Paranormal Dark Academia Romance set in a college where supernatural creatures hide in plain sight. You'll love it if you enjoy mixing the principles of horoscopes and astrology in your romance, and you prefer your enemies to lovers, student/teacher, and monster romances with a mix of self-discovery and possessive, morally gray men who decided that no one else can have their very, very "good girl."
This story exists within Anni Lee's Graves Academy Shifterverse, first established in the MM+ series Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac and The Zodiac Werewolf. All books within the multiverse are entirely independent, and there's no need to read previous stories to enjoy Zodiac Hybrids,
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2024
About the author
Leann Belle
14 books311 followersLeann Belle was born and raised in Los Angeles as an eternal dreamer, a hardcore gamer, and obsessive anime, manga, and JRPG nerd. Having fallen in love with countless villains, she immediately fell in love with the dark side of romance, and her lifelong love affair with Japanese horror and fantasy has heavily influenced her writing style as she crafts vicious and magical worlds.
When she’s not typing away behind her laptop, she’s living out of a tent off the back of her motorcycle on her quest to ride around the world. The wilderness is the best place to catch up on reading, after all!
When she’s not typing away behind her laptop, she’s living out of a tent off the back of her motorcycle on her quest to ride around the world. The wilderness is the best place to catch up on reading, after all!
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January 13, 2025DNF 50%
January 12, 2025
🚮
January 12, 2025
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September 26, 2024
My Rating: 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Series Rating: TBD
We Have:
✅ FMM(+?)
✅ Age Gap
✅ why choose
✅ Academia
✅ Supernatural/Paranormal
✅ Shifters
✅ Fated Mates (?)
✅ Somnophelia 😏😏
✅ Multiple POV
✅ Cliffhanger (Book 1 of 6)
I came across this book on a humble. I received the ARC of the second book in the series, and I figured I needed to know the story before I could read the second book. BRUH....I am so fucking glad I did!
I loved this story!! It is SO damn creative - It is so much fun - It's fucking hilarious.... This series has SO much potential!! The author has said this will likely be a six-book series covering all of the Zodiac. I'm super interested in seeing how this goes.
There are a lot of questions unanswered in this book (again, obviously), but she did a great job of answering (well, strongly hinting) some of the questions. It was a quick read (for me) at under 300 pages - especially when I'm used to 4, 5, and 6 hundred paged books. My complaint with that is I felt the story was rushed - BUT - that's probably just me because I'm used to authors doing a shit ton of world-building and character-building in a seemingly never-ending book.
This book started and then took the fuck off. I mean, we got smut really early on - then a bit of a slow burn - then another smutty scene. Both were delicious by the way! I want to say it felt kiddie - but then again, it wasn't. It was academia - with an older student (22) that was kinda naive but rolled with the punches in a sort of "fuck it, I'm here, might as well see" but not an "omg she's dumb, WHY is she doing this" type of way. Oh, oh, oh, oh ... and by the way - not only is our FMC not a blond, but baby got back! She's written with some softness and curves (thick thighs save lives!!), and the way the MMCs talk about her lovely body is just *chefs kiss*
You know I hate tropes - and so far there aren't any of the irritating ones! (yaay!) This book is a fantastic, well-paced, hilarious palate cleanser that is great to get you out of a funk or over the hump when you've read a book that pisses you off (which I did before this one). This was JUST what the doctor -err- Author - whatever, just what I needed. I'm off to start the next book.
Now, while I am obsessive and can not be patient when it comes to cliffhangers I'll admit the positive thing about this series is this book was published in April and the next one is due out in October of this year - so at least we won't have to wait a whole year to know what's happening!
Series Rating: TBD
We Have:
✅ FMM(+?)
✅ Age Gap
✅ why choose
✅ Academia
✅ Supernatural/Paranormal
✅ Shifters
✅ Fated Mates (?)
✅ Somnophelia 😏😏
✅ Multiple POV
✅ Cliffhanger (Book 1 of 6)
I came across this book on a humble. I received the ARC of the second book in the series, and I figured I needed to know the story before I could read the second book. BRUH....I am so fucking glad I did!
I loved this story!! It is SO damn creative - It is so much fun - It's fucking hilarious.... This series has SO much potential!! The author has said this will likely be a six-book series covering all of the Zodiac. I'm super interested in seeing how this goes.
There are a lot of questions unanswered in this book (again, obviously), but she did a great job of answering (well, strongly hinting) some of the questions. It was a quick read (for me) at under 300 pages - especially when I'm used to 4, 5, and 6 hundred paged books. My complaint with that is I felt the story was rushed - BUT - that's probably just me because I'm used to authors doing a shit ton of world-building and character-building in a seemingly never-ending book.
This book started and then took the fuck off. I mean, we got smut really early on - then a bit of a slow burn - then another smutty scene. Both were delicious by the way! I want to say it felt kiddie - but then again, it wasn't. It was academia - with an older student (22) that was kinda naive but rolled with the punches in a sort of "fuck it, I'm here, might as well see" but not an "omg she's dumb, WHY is she doing this" type of way. Oh, oh, oh, oh ... and by the way - not only is our FMC not a blond, but baby got back! She's written with some softness and curves (thick thighs save lives!!), and the way the MMCs talk about her lovely body is just *chefs kiss*
You know I hate tropes - and so far there aren't any of the irritating ones! (yaay!) This book is a fantastic, well-paced, hilarious palate cleanser that is great to get you out of a funk or over the hump when you've read a book that pisses you off (which I did before this one). This was JUST what the doctor -err- Author - whatever, just what I needed. I'm off to start the next book.
Now, while I am obsessive and can not be patient when it comes to cliffhangers I'll admit the positive thing about this series is this book was published in April and the next one is due out in October of this year - so at least we won't have to wait a whole year to know what's happening!
July 18, 2026
Multiple POVs. New Mysterious College & town. Insta spice. Multiple magical beings MMCs. Dubious consent, love triangle, virginity tropes. Kinda of corny but completely fun. Cliffhanger warning!
April 24, 2024
ZODIAC HYBRIDS is the first book in the Monsters of Graves Academy and will leave you with more questions than you get answered.
Lila is a naive introvert who has been rejected by all the major schools she applied for. When she finally gets an acceptance letter, it's not even a school she applied for. Anyway, she gets in and goes, has a weird encounter with a teacher, and finds a friend, before going out after curfew on a full moon night. Surprise!!! Things happen that she wasn't expecting.
This story is taken up with Lila's inner monologues on how she wants to fit in, is too weird, and does he really like her? As for Marcus and Adrian, there is some sort of war going on between them that never gets explained. The zodiac part took up a lot of the story and, to be honest, it almost felt a little lazy. Once again, none of that was explained. They don't do much to make themselves either likeable or the big bad. They're just there, playing their own games, for their own reasons.
I think the premise of this is a good one, I just don't think the writing style is for me. I think this is a book/series that you will either love or not. It is labelled as DARK, so make sure you take heed of the TWs.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 24, 2024
Lila is a naive introvert who has been rejected by all the major schools she applied for. When she finally gets an acceptance letter, it's not even a school she applied for. Anyway, she gets in and goes, has a weird encounter with a teacher, and finds a friend, before going out after curfew on a full moon night. Surprise!!! Things happen that she wasn't expecting.
This story is taken up with Lila's inner monologues on how she wants to fit in, is too weird, and does he really like her? As for Marcus and Adrian, there is some sort of war going on between them that never gets explained. The zodiac part took up a lot of the story and, to be honest, it almost felt a little lazy. Once again, none of that was explained. They don't do much to make themselves either likeable or the big bad. They're just there, playing their own games, for their own reasons.
I think the premise of this is a good one, I just don't think the writing style is for me. I think this is a book/series that you will either love or not. It is labelled as DARK, so make sure you take heed of the TWs.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 24, 2024
September 23, 2024
I’m slightly conflicted about this one.
Let’s start with the pro’s. I love the originality of the “monsters” I can’t recall ever reading about a zodiac shifter and knowing that well be meeting al 12 makes me highly anticipating.
I’m not really sure a lot happened during this first book. It’s more like an into and I have a hard time liking the MMC’s. Honestly there’s not really anything to like so far and threat her like shit for their games and own benefit.
But then again, this was just the beginning so I’m confident that it’ll all get better.
3.5⭐️
Let’s start with the pro’s. I love the originality of the “monsters” I can’t recall ever reading about a zodiac shifter and knowing that well be meeting al 12 makes me highly anticipating.
I’m not really sure a lot happened during this first book. It’s more like an into and I have a hard time liking the MMC’s. Honestly there’s not really anything to like so far and threat her like shit for their games and own benefit.
But then again, this was just the beginning so I’m confident that it’ll all get better.
3.5⭐️
November 2, 2024
I have just recently gotten into these types of books and it seems I can’t put them down! This book is well written and has all the things I look for when reading! I’m so glad I was able to read both of the monsters of graves books!.
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.
March 20, 2024
Plagued by rejection from the Ivy League schools she applied to, Lila chooses to attend the mysterious university her mother attended years ago, Graves Academy. But Graves Academy is more than just a university, as its student body tends to be made up of shifters, fae, vampires, and more. When Lila is unknowingly caught in a machination between two half-brothers, she finds herself suddenly the prey of a monster and herself mate-marked to another. Can Lila find her way through this new monstrous world?
Zodiac Hybrids is a dark romance with morally grey male leads and an exceptionally naive main character. Most characterization seems to depend largely on the zodiac signs of the characters, which is a major plot device in the series. Lila is likable but seems more like an eighteen year old rather than the twenty-two year old she is reported to be. She's awkward and introverted, and you just can't help but feel sorry for her as she's caught up in Adrian and Marcus's plans. But her insecurities tend to get repetitive and drag the book down.
I also struggled to like or care about Adrian and Marcus, as both make fairly egregious decisions in their interactions with her. While some of their bad blood is explained, Marcus's actual intentions and plans are never fully stated or explored. What exactly is Marcus wanting to happen here? Just to shame and humiliate Adrian? If so, there's little reason for him to continue to meddle with Lila. In comparison, Adrian seems most concerned about self-protection and damage control, which gives little for the reader to root for. At this point, I'm hoping Lila can get away from these two and get the freedom to find herself on her own in the next books of the series. It doesn't help that the book ends fairly quickly on a mild cliffhanger before we can get to any redeeming actions from the two men.
I would recommend perusing the content warnings before reading the book. If you like astrology, dark romances, and reverse harem set ups, this book is for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Zodiac Hybrids is a dark romance with morally grey male leads and an exceptionally naive main character. Most characterization seems to depend largely on the zodiac signs of the characters, which is a major plot device in the series. Lila is likable but seems more like an eighteen year old rather than the twenty-two year old she is reported to be. She's awkward and introverted, and you just can't help but feel sorry for her as she's caught up in Adrian and Marcus's plans. But her insecurities tend to get repetitive and drag the book down.
I also struggled to like or care about Adrian and Marcus, as both make fairly egregious decisions in their interactions with her. While some of their bad blood is explained, Marcus's actual intentions and plans are never fully stated or explored. What exactly is Marcus wanting to happen here? Just to shame and humiliate Adrian? If so, there's little reason for him to continue to meddle with Lila. In comparison, Adrian seems most concerned about self-protection and damage control, which gives little for the reader to root for. At this point, I'm hoping Lila can get away from these two and get the freedom to find herself on her own in the next books of the series. It doesn't help that the book ends fairly quickly on a mild cliffhanger before we can get to any redeeming actions from the two men.
I would recommend perusing the content warnings before reading the book. If you like astrology, dark romances, and reverse harem set ups, this book is for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2024
OKAY I LOVED THIS BOOK! I NEED MORE! Omg the way the zodiac is part of this story is like nothingggg else I've ever read. I love astrology and this was such a cool take. The world building in my opinion is light at the beginning and develops slowly over time, which I really appreciate.
This book starts off with the fmc, Lila, kind of lost, dead end job, bills barely paid, no college acceptances until a school she didn't apply for acceptance letter came in the mail: Graves Academy. This is where the story really begins to pick up. So she ends up in this school which on the outside seems “normal” but theres definitely more than meets the eye, hiding in plain sight.
Lila meets her professor, Adrian Karras & becomes close with classmate, Marcus Emery. I’m loving these characters. Lila starts off this story as a virgin. She’s nerdy and honestly lacks confidence in herself, which hopefully as she figures out more about herself will change. But her self consciousness is so relatable, and really well written.
“I was more awkward than a slutty dress in church.”
That line had me cracking up. Adrian and Marcus have this half brother sibling rivalry thing going on which I can’t wait to see how their relationships change not only with Lila but with each other. We also meet Ceto, another student, their friendship has only just started and I can’t wait to read more and see where he fits into everything. I love the different personalities everyone has and thats its based off their zodiac sign.
It’s told mostly by Lila but with some other POVs in there too (which i absolutely love). Theres also some pictures snuck in there too so you get to see what the characters look like! Theres definitely some spice which the zodiac also affects and I love those added elements.
This is a book I’m going to be thinking about constantly and waiting impatiently for more books of this series to come out! If you like astrology and fantasy reads you’ll love this one.
⭐️5
🌶️3
This book starts off with the fmc, Lila, kind of lost, dead end job, bills barely paid, no college acceptances until a school she didn't apply for acceptance letter came in the mail: Graves Academy. This is where the story really begins to pick up. So she ends up in this school which on the outside seems “normal” but theres definitely more than meets the eye, hiding in plain sight.
Lila meets her professor, Adrian Karras & becomes close with classmate, Marcus Emery. I’m loving these characters. Lila starts off this story as a virgin. She’s nerdy and honestly lacks confidence in herself, which hopefully as she figures out more about herself will change. But her self consciousness is so relatable, and really well written.
“I was more awkward than a slutty dress in church.”
That line had me cracking up. Adrian and Marcus have this half brother sibling rivalry thing going on which I can’t wait to see how their relationships change not only with Lila but with each other. We also meet Ceto, another student, their friendship has only just started and I can’t wait to read more and see where he fits into everything. I love the different personalities everyone has and thats its based off their zodiac sign.
It’s told mostly by Lila but with some other POVs in there too (which i absolutely love). Theres also some pictures snuck in there too so you get to see what the characters look like! Theres definitely some spice which the zodiac also affects and I love those added elements.
This is a book I’m going to be thinking about constantly and waiting impatiently for more books of this series to come out! If you like astrology and fantasy reads you’ll love this one.
⭐️5
🌶️3
May 23, 2025
This is the first book in the series and the end leaves me with a lot of questions.
I love a FMC with a backbone which was absolute NOT Lila, she's 22 but is quite naive for her age. She keeps on being insecure throughout the whole book, but I'm curious to find out if she will grow in to a confident women in the next books.
Then we have marcus "her friend", he is 4 years older and he is helpful when she needs it.
We also have his half brother Adrian, who is 34 --> age gap of 12years with our FMC. He is standoffish since he is her teacher and even in the magical world this is a big NO GO. At this moment he isn't my favorite since he disappeared on her when she needed him, and he could be nicer even as a professor. Looking forward to see how their relationship evolves.
And then at last we got quickly introduced to Ceto, he is the most intruiging (but maybe that is because we almost know nothing about him).
The first book looks like a love triangle but due to the introduction of Ceto, there is the possibility of more in the next books of the series. Can't wait to read the rest and see how the relationships shift en evolve throughout the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love a FMC with a backbone which was absolute NOT Lila, she's 22 but is quite naive for her age. She keeps on being insecure throughout the whole book, but I'm curious to find out if she will grow in to a confident women in the next books.
Then we have marcus "her friend", he is 4 years older and he is helpful when she needs it.
We also have his half brother Adrian, who is 34 --> age gap of 12years with our FMC. He is standoffish since he is her teacher and even in the magical world this is a big NO GO. At this moment he isn't my favorite since he disappeared on her when she needed him, and he could be nicer even as a professor. Looking forward to see how their relationship evolves.
And then at last we got quickly introduced to Ceto, he is the most intruiging (but maybe that is because we almost know nothing about him).
The first book looks like a love triangle but due to the introduction of Ceto, there is the possibility of more in the next books of the series. Can't wait to read the rest and see how the relationships shift en evolve throughout the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2025
Reading this was like reading a bad fanfic of Zodiac Academy…
The plot was completely non-existent. The characters lacked depth (and consistency, for that matter). The FMC was blander than a raw potato. We’re supposed to believe that she was SO INTELLIGENT that she was applying to Ivy leagues for an AEROSPACE ENGINEERING DEGREE???? Which felt like something that was just tossed into her background description to make her sound “nerdy and quirky” and “not like other girls”. But we never see her actually involved in anything related to this so-called “passion” of hers. Why does she want to pursue this specific major?? Why got her interested in this specific field?? Why does she say her only passion/thing she’s great at is “the sciences” but we never see her involved in anything actually science related??? She might as well have just been in this university as an undeclared undergraduate “trying to find herself” because THAT would have made more sense to her character and it would have changed NOTHING to the story.
Only giving it 2 stars because the only sliiiiiightly redeeming thing was the character of Marcus. He made me chuckle once or twice.
The plot was completely non-existent. The characters lacked depth (and consistency, for that matter). The FMC was blander than a raw potato. We’re supposed to believe that she was SO INTELLIGENT that she was applying to Ivy leagues for an AEROSPACE ENGINEERING DEGREE???? Which felt like something that was just tossed into her background description to make her sound “nerdy and quirky” and “not like other girls”. But we never see her actually involved in anything related to this so-called “passion” of hers. Why does she want to pursue this specific major?? Why got her interested in this specific field?? Why does she say her only passion/thing she’s great at is “the sciences” but we never see her involved in anything actually science related??? She might as well have just been in this university as an undeclared undergraduate “trying to find herself” because THAT would have made more sense to her character and it would have changed NOTHING to the story.
Only giving it 2 stars because the only sliiiiiightly redeeming thing was the character of Marcus. He made me chuckle once or twice.
February 13, 2026
Sigh....
Won't lie, a lot of skipping was involved just to get to the end. I was just hoping for more... Just more oomph.... Just more.
Calling it a dark RH doesn't excuse awful, clueless MMCs. They have no likable traits, it's like watching/reading teens bumble through their first sex escapades. Who wants to read that???? None of the characters are teens by the way. There is no excuse for this drivel.
One of the MMCs had sex with Lila and left her passed out naked in public then went on to gaslight her the next day. WHAT??? For some insane reason Lila is practically panting after Adrian..... Not even a good writer could sell this to me.
This wasn't dark romance at all, it was just sad. Mate bonds my foot!!. Lila has no chill it's embarrassing. Bottom line is she was assaulted, it's NOT romantic. Just last week I read about an over the top stalker, he did better than this mess.
It was even confirmed that broken mate bonds can't be fixed, one and done kind of thing. So why are these "children" acting like they are inconsequential??
Just no.
Won't lie, a lot of skipping was involved just to get to the end. I was just hoping for more... Just more oomph.... Just more.
Calling it a dark RH doesn't excuse awful, clueless MMCs. They have no likable traits, it's like watching/reading teens bumble through their first sex escapades. Who wants to read that???? None of the characters are teens by the way. There is no excuse for this drivel.
One of the MMCs had sex with Lila and left her passed out naked in public then went on to gaslight her the next day. WHAT??? For some insane reason Lila is practically panting after Adrian..... Not even a good writer could sell this to me.
This wasn't dark romance at all, it was just sad. Mate bonds my foot!!. Lila has no chill it's embarrassing. Bottom line is she was assaulted, it's NOT romantic. Just last week I read about an over the top stalker, he did better than this mess.
It was even confirmed that broken mate bonds can't be fixed, one and done kind of thing. So why are these "children" acting like they are inconsequential??
Just no.
January 8, 2026
Assault
The female is assaulted sexually by both main male characters. Gave up on this as that is a big turnoff.
The female is assaulted sexually by both main male characters. Gave up on this as that is a big turnoff.
December 20, 2024
3⭐️ 2.5🌶️
MOOD: adventurous, challenging, sad, tense
TROPES: virgin main character,
GENRES: fantasy/paranormal, monster romance, college/academy
MAIN CHARACTERS: Lila Denton, Adrian Karras, Marcus Emery, Ceto Arya (introduced)
I had a really hard time rating this. I was going to give it a 3.5 but it didn't match another book that I recently gave a 3.5 and it definitely wasn't a 4 for me. This is the first Leann Belle book I actually finished - I have DNFed two. Why would I try again? Cause the descriptions always sound really good. I picked this one up because I read the description for the 2nd book - Zodiac Monsters but they have to be read in order.
THE GOOD: The lore/world that is introduced is interesting. The relationship between Adrian and Marcus is one of the bright spots of the book - it's complicated and that makes it a more grounding & realistic component to this fantastical world. Lila is a mediocre character at best so I am hoping that her development improves with the next book - which I do feel the need to read and continue the series.
THE NEUTRAL: There's potential but not a lot of follow-through and that could just be because it's a planned series, I don't know. There were also some little things throughout the book that didn't really make sense - like Lila continuously referring to, and treating, astrology club like a class.
THE MEH: I read the CW and I was still shocked by Somnophilia (without consent or knowledge) - I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't that. That one is on me. It wasn't outside my reading content areas since I do read dark romance but it felt like an odd choice given the pacing and overall vibes of the characters up until that point. Lila is naive to the point of being annoying. She routinely ignores things that the other characters bring up and doesn't have an argument as to why she thinks what she thinks - just that she's lived 22 years this way so she must be correct even as she learns things about the world that she never knew.
CW: (provided by the author) Somnophilia, dubious consent, age gap/power imbalance, primal, pain/fear/blodd used in sexual context, choking, public sex, light bondage, tentacles, breeding kink
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
MOOD: adventurous, challenging, sad, tense
TROPES: virgin main character,
GENRES: fantasy/paranormal, monster romance, college/academy
MAIN CHARACTERS: Lila Denton, Adrian Karras, Marcus Emery, Ceto Arya (introduced)
I had a really hard time rating this. I was going to give it a 3.5 but it didn't match another book that I recently gave a 3.5 and it definitely wasn't a 4 for me. This is the first Leann Belle book I actually finished - I have DNFed two. Why would I try again? Cause the descriptions always sound really good. I picked this one up because I read the description for the 2nd book - Zodiac Monsters but they have to be read in order.
THE GOOD: The lore/world that is introduced is interesting. The relationship between Adrian and Marcus is one of the bright spots of the book - it's complicated and that makes it a more grounding & realistic component to this fantastical world. Lila is a mediocre character at best so I am hoping that her development improves with the next book - which I do feel the need to read and continue the series.
THE NEUTRAL: There's potential but not a lot of follow-through and that could just be because it's a planned series, I don't know. There were also some little things throughout the book that didn't really make sense - like Lila continuously referring to, and treating, astrology club like a class.
THE MEH: I read the CW and I was still shocked by Somnophilia (without consent or knowledge) - I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't that. That one is on me. It wasn't outside my reading content areas since I do read dark romance but it felt like an odd choice given the pacing and overall vibes of the characters up until that point. Lila is naive to the point of being annoying. She routinely ignores things that the other characters bring up and doesn't have an argument as to why she thinks what she thinks - just that she's lived 22 years this way so she must be correct even as she learns things about the world that she never knew.
CW: (provided by the author) Somnophilia, dubious consent, age gap/power imbalance, primal, pain/fear/blodd used in sexual context, choking, public sex, light bondage, tentacles, breeding kink
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
October 4, 2026
So. Dang. Good!
ZODIAC HYBRIDS is the best kind of non-bully academy romance—Sure, Adrian is a bit cruel, but I wouldn’t classify it as bullying. Lila experiences so, so much in the month + a smidge in book 1. She learns a LOT about herself in that time—and stays blissfully ignorant about other, very significant, factors.
I really enjoyed reading ZODIAC HYBRIDS and look forward to the rest of this interesting series.
***.Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Marcus
✨Adrian
✨Ceto
FMC:
✨Lila
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨Open Ended Ending, Cliffhanger, and To Be Continued
Series:
✨Book 1: Monsters of Graves Academy
Tropes:
👉dark academy romance
👉monster MMCs x human fmc
👉reverse harem
👉morally gray MMCs
👉dark fantasy
👉supernatural creatures
👉horoscopes and astrology
👉enemies to lovers
👉teacher / student
👉possessive MMCs
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, mf, open🚪sex, all the good, kinky, smutty, dirty, questionable things . . .
💥profanity
💥violence
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
ZODIAC HYBRIDS is the best kind of non-bully academy romance—Sure, Adrian is a bit cruel, but I wouldn’t classify it as bullying. Lila experiences so, so much in the month + a smidge in book 1. She learns a LOT about herself in that time—and stays blissfully ignorant about other, very significant, factors.
I really enjoyed reading ZODIAC HYBRIDS and look forward to the rest of this interesting series.
***.Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Marcus
✨Adrian
✨Ceto
FMC:
✨Lila
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨Open Ended Ending, Cliffhanger, and To Be Continued
Series:
✨Book 1: Monsters of Graves Academy
Tropes:
👉dark academy romance
👉monster MMCs x human fmc
👉reverse harem
👉morally gray MMCs
👉dark fantasy
👉supernatural creatures
👉horoscopes and astrology
👉enemies to lovers
👉teacher / student
👉possessive MMCs
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, mf, open🚪sex, all the good, kinky, smutty, dirty, questionable things . . .
💥profanity
💥violence
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2024
3.5/5 ⭐️ plot
3.5/5 🌶️ spice
3/5 ❤️ romance
I NEED MORE. I picked up this book and didn’t see it was the first in a 6(?) part series that literally JUST was released and we don’t know when the rest is happening . I will wait.
3.5 plot is generous and may change on what happens over the course of the books because TBH there was very little real plot - nothing really bad happened except little sub-plot things with a couple of the characters and a lot of world building… SO because I really enjoyed this even with that, I am giving it a 3.5 in hopes this goes some where.
I LOVED the zodiac aspect and have never READ a zodiac shifter book aside from Fruits Basket manga, which is much fluffier than these. I will probably check out the author’s other zodiac stuff. I am very interested in the world and I love the FMC so I will be waiting with bated breath for the next books.
When this book got sexy, it GOT sexy. The first scene with our vampire hybrid was a little too just none-consent than somno… but I looked past it… I guess? The hot springs scene though ?? Hot. Some of the trope aren’t usually my thing but I’m enjoying this! I’m just gonna buckle up and let the next books take me for a ride I guess !
3.5/5 🌶️ spice
3/5 ❤️ romance
I NEED MORE. I picked up this book and didn’t see it was the first in a 6(?) part series that literally JUST was released and we don’t know when the rest is happening . I will wait.
3.5 plot is generous and may change on what happens over the course of the books because TBH there was very little real plot - nothing really bad happened except little sub-plot things with a couple of the characters and a lot of world building… SO because I really enjoyed this even with that, I am giving it a 3.5 in hopes this goes some where.
I LOVED the zodiac aspect and have never READ a zodiac shifter book aside from Fruits Basket manga, which is much fluffier than these. I will probably check out the author’s other zodiac stuff. I am very interested in the world and I love the FMC so I will be waiting with bated breath for the next books.
When this book got sexy, it GOT sexy. The first scene with our vampire hybrid was a little too just none-consent than somno… but I looked past it… I guess? The hot springs scene though ?? Hot. Some of the trope aren’t usually my thing but I’m enjoying this! I’m just gonna buckle up and let the next books take me for a ride I guess !
August 11, 2024
2.75?
Not really sure how to rate this. Overall, I enjoyed reading this ... But it wasn't really a story.?.
We have the mfc who gets denied at every college she applies to until she gets a letter from a college her mother applied to named Graves College. She doesn't ask her mom anything about the college, even when she starts finding out monsters exist (there's no reason for this non communication, in fact, her and her mom have a really good relationship). Then she's attacked (kind of) by her professor, and then (kind of) by his brother later on, the end.
The enjoyable part is the uniqueness in how the author brings in the zodiac shifters, however, the reader is not given much in-depth information about any of it.
It read like the first couple chapters of a book ... You know the introduction part before the plotline and story are revealed.
Not really sure how to rate this. Overall, I enjoyed reading this ... But it wasn't really a story.?.
We have the mfc who gets denied at every college she applies to until she gets a letter from a college her mother applied to named Graves College. She doesn't ask her mom anything about the college, even when she starts finding out monsters exist (there's no reason for this non communication, in fact, her and her mom have a really good relationship). Then she's attacked (kind of) by her professor, and then (kind of) by his brother later on, the end.
The enjoyable part is the uniqueness in how the author brings in the zodiac shifters, however, the reader is not given much in-depth information about any of it.
It read like the first couple chapters of a book ... You know the introduction part before the plotline and story are revealed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2025
First time reading from this author and I have to say I’m not disappointed. This would definitely appeal to people who are into zodiac signs and paranormal. This was a great mix. Definitely glad for the content warnings before you get into the book. The FMC and MMCs are truly well written and they leave you wanting to read the next book. Cliffhangers are killer lol.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Did Not Finish
July 7, 2026Again I don't rate DNF's this review is for me for if I try to read this again.
Alright, honestly this writing style is not for me. The paragraphs are super choppy, there is a lack of descriptive language and instead of any real build up we are tossed into the deep end without a paddle. I also think the main character is far too naive for me and I am just not in the mood to deal with that whole check list.
Alright, honestly this writing style is not for me. The paragraphs are super choppy, there is a lack of descriptive language and instead of any real build up we are tossed into the deep end without a paddle. I also think the main character is far too naive for me and I am just not in the mood to deal with that whole check list.
July 6, 2025
An enjoyable read that combines all my favourite things.
The book is a combination of supernatural, fantasy, steamy and spicy adult themes, good banter and humour, multiple POVs, engaging characters, and just enough detail of background, setting, and information to set the scene for what looks like an exciting series of books ahead.
Information shared by the author sets out that each book will have two zodiac shifter encounters, so our main protagonist, Lila, has much to learn as she not only discovers a whole different world exists, but there are a lot of new encounters and monsters to learn about as part of her college experience!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book is a combination of supernatural, fantasy, steamy and spicy adult themes, good banter and humour, multiple POVs, engaging characters, and just enough detail of background, setting, and information to set the scene for what looks like an exciting series of books ahead.
Information shared by the author sets out that each book will have two zodiac shifter encounters, so our main protagonist, Lila, has much to learn as she not only discovers a whole different world exists, but there are a lot of new encounters and monsters to learn about as part of her college experience!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2025
3,5 it's good written I hate cliffhanger tho. So partly personal preference. I like the new sort shifters. I am curious what happens next. I am just a little in shock that it will be 6 books
If you like to read about shifters and monsters here is your book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you like to read about shifters and monsters here is your book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 26, 2024
Astrology, shifters, and spice
This was such a good read. The “monster” romance genre is relatively new to me so I really enjoyed this.
The story line was amazing, Lila has no clue what she is and hopefully she finds out in book two🙊
I really liked how the book was written as well as how the pages were set up.
Spice 🌶️🌶️
This was such a good read. The “monster” romance genre is relatively new to me so I really enjoyed this.
The story line was amazing, Lila has no clue what she is and hopefully she finds out in book two🙊
I really liked how the book was written as well as how the pages were set up.
Spice 🌶️🌶️
January 27, 2025
Fun and spicy college paranormal romance with love triangle vibes!
September 30, 2024
Wow. I really enjoyed this book. This is the first work I've read from Leann Belle, so I wasnt sure what to expect. I appreciated that there was a disclaimer at the beginning warning about the various dark themes and scenarios, since everyone has their own preferences and limitations. For readers like me who enjoy paranormal RH that's got a bit of danger and a bit of erotica, I highly recommend this series. It draws you in, and the racy scenes are well written. I couldn't put it down.
I've always been interested in Astrology, so the idea of Zodiac shifters intrigued me. The world of Graves Academy is compelling, and different enough from the typical vampire/witch/werewolf/fae lore to feel both new and familiar at the same time. The characters were wonderful and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. I also really want to explore the other novels that also take place in this universe, since I'll need something to tide me over until the next release.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
I've always been interested in Astrology, so the idea of Zodiac shifters intrigued me. The world of Graves Academy is compelling, and different enough from the typical vampire/witch/werewolf/fae lore to feel both new and familiar at the same time. The characters were wonderful and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. I also really want to explore the other novels that also take place in this universe, since I'll need something to tide me over until the next release.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
March 26, 2026
(Audible) Well, that was dumb. As expected. Don't get me wrong. I was mildly entertained. But I could have done without Marcus's non-consentual assaults. We are supposed to overlook the fact that he used her body while she was asleep and bit/marked her without consent, simply because he put her to bed and plugged in her phone? These guys are jerks and she is already struggling with self-confidence. Was not a fan of our male MC's here. Not to mention the FMC's mother keeping secrets about her lineage and applying for schools behind her daughter's back. There are no healthy relationships here.
Book contains mostly clean language, but plenty of steam of the abusive flavor. Told in 1st person, from 3 different perspectives. (2 men, 1 woman). Would not recommend, and don't plan to continue the series... but if it's free and you don't expect much, it was somewhat entertaining.
Book contains mostly clean language, but plenty of steam of the abusive flavor. Told in 1st person, from 3 different perspectives. (2 men, 1 woman). Would not recommend, and don't plan to continue the series... but if it's free and you don't expect much, it was somewhat entertaining.
June 8, 2025
I'll start by saying I enjoyed the book; it's a decent effort, it has potential, and I'm curious enough to continue reading the next book in the series. However, several things kept nagging at me, but they may not bother other readers as much as they did me. Also, if you expect this book to be something similar to the Zodiac Academy series, you'll be disappointed.
The theme of the plot is probably familiar to most readers and is starting to get worn thin: the insecure, curvy girl who turns out to be special, and all the hot guys are, for different reasons, obsessed with her. The added paranormal zodiac theme is the interesting part here.
It bothered me greatly that Lila continues to be willfully ignorant about her mother's connection to the school throughout the book when a simple phone call sometime during the two months this book lasts would answer so many questions.
As this is the first of six planned books, we only get to know the characters briefly, making it difficult to feel connected to them. Lila is a self-proclaimed introvert, which is fine, but her self-esteem is relatively low, and she is so insecure about everything and everyone that it gets annoying. The level of animosity between Adrian and Marcus is interesting, and I hope the author delves even deeper into it in later books. There is a teacher/student trope, but no real enemy-to-lovers trope as advertised so far. The blurb is accurate enough, though Ceto is barely there in this book.
My biggest issue is that the book's description oversells its content. "Paranormal dark academia romance" is the genre, and it is accurate per definition, but by the bare minimum. Paranormal is correct, but academia is essentially in setting only because there isn't much learning going on here. Still, it's the "dark romance" that bothers me the most. For a reader used to reading true dark romance, this book is not dark. Granted, there is one sexual interaction where there is a lack of consent, but the other two situations end up being consensual. These three are the only scenes of this kind, so the amount is also low for anything called "dark." They are detailed, however, resulting in a low to medium spice level. But even the monster kink is more of a unique shifter kink, so there is nothing properly dark there, either.
Morally grey characters are another vital part of dark romance, and these guys don't qualify so far; Marcus is, at worst, light grey.
Another aspect of the book that mitigates a dark vibe is the inclusion of drawings throughout, as well as a zodiac figure and symbol in every new chapter. These give a teenage vibe and lower the seriousness (for lack of a better word) of the story. If it weren't for the few sexual scenes previously mentioned, I would have thought this was YA.
I hope the following books will enhance my overall impression of the series; chopping one long story into several smaller pieces isn't always a good idea. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The theme of the plot is probably familiar to most readers and is starting to get worn thin: the insecure, curvy girl who turns out to be special, and all the hot guys are, for different reasons, obsessed with her. The added paranormal zodiac theme is the interesting part here.
It bothered me greatly that Lila continues to be willfully ignorant about her mother's connection to the school throughout the book when a simple phone call sometime during the two months this book lasts would answer so many questions.
As this is the first of six planned books, we only get to know the characters briefly, making it difficult to feel connected to them. Lila is a self-proclaimed introvert, which is fine, but her self-esteem is relatively low, and she is so insecure about everything and everyone that it gets annoying. The level of animosity between Adrian and Marcus is interesting, and I hope the author delves even deeper into it in later books. There is a teacher/student trope, but no real enemy-to-lovers trope as advertised so far. The blurb is accurate enough, though Ceto is barely there in this book.
My biggest issue is that the book's description oversells its content. "Paranormal dark academia romance" is the genre, and it is accurate per definition, but by the bare minimum. Paranormal is correct, but academia is essentially in setting only because there isn't much learning going on here. Still, it's the "dark romance" that bothers me the most. For a reader used to reading true dark romance, this book is not dark. Granted, there is one sexual interaction where there is a lack of consent, but the other two situations end up being consensual. These three are the only scenes of this kind, so the amount is also low for anything called "dark." They are detailed, however, resulting in a low to medium spice level. But even the monster kink is more of a unique shifter kink, so there is nothing properly dark there, either.
Morally grey characters are another vital part of dark romance, and these guys don't qualify so far; Marcus is, at worst, light grey.
Another aspect of the book that mitigates a dark vibe is the inclusion of drawings throughout, as well as a zodiac figure and symbol in every new chapter. These give a teenage vibe and lower the seriousness (for lack of a better word) of the story. If it weren't for the few sexual scenes previously mentioned, I would have thought this was YA.
I hope the following books will enhance my overall impression of the series; chopping one long story into several smaller pieces isn't always a good idea. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2026
First of all, read the trigger warning, this book has some dark and hard kinks that aren't for everyone. I personally don't like some of them, but I can tolerate them if they are present and I'm warned before reading the story. However, one of these kinks in particular created a situation that can be seen as assault and makes it really hard to like Marcus for me. I understand this is an erotic book, it's a fantasy, and I don't mind the kinks themselves, I get why there's no explicit consent. The issue is, that if I'm supposed to like Marcus, and at that point he generally acts like the "good" one, it makes it hard to like him as a reader for me. I think as a fantasy that can be okay if it's your thing go enjoy it, but for me, in a romance book, it makes me not like that character. Later on it makes more sense because he's actually the "rough" one, but eh.
Why does this review start talking about the kinks? Because there's no plot. The only plot adjacent thing that happens in this book is that we find out that the main character is a supernatural being but she doesn't know she's one, or which one she is because her mum never bother saying it. Again, I get it's an erotic book, but that doesn't mean we can't have some plot at least. This reads a fanfic that was tagged with "plot what plot", but in a book I expect a bit more.
I like the concepts related to the supernatural beings, the difference between pure ones and hybrids. I find the Zodiac ones a very interesting concept in particular, tho I have read it's very similar to another book with a similar title I haven't read that one so I can't say if that's true, but I'll be checking that series too. But besides that, I do like the concept of the transformations needing a trigger and having different transformations, it's fun. However, in the same way I said the book needs more plot, it also needs more world building. It has a lot of potential topics and possibilities related to astrology, and it's barely explored, we only get some mentions of compatibility based on the element of the sign and not much else.
If you wanna read a why choose, plot what plot, story with supernatural beings, I guess it's okay. I don't think the spicy stuff is extremely good, but it's decent. I don't think I'll continue reading this series because, while I'm curious about the other transformations, beings, and magic, it's not that interesting or even relevant in the story to keep me reading.
This is an ARC review, however this is my honest opinion.
Why does this review start talking about the kinks? Because there's no plot. The only plot adjacent thing that happens in this book is that we find out that the main character is a supernatural being but she doesn't know she's one, or which one she is because her mum never bother saying it. Again, I get it's an erotic book, but that doesn't mean we can't have some plot at least. This reads a fanfic that was tagged with "plot what plot", but in a book I expect a bit more.
I like the concepts related to the supernatural beings, the difference between pure ones and hybrids. I find the Zodiac ones a very interesting concept in particular, tho I have read it's very similar to another book with a similar title I haven't read that one so I can't say if that's true, but I'll be checking that series too. But besides that, I do like the concept of the transformations needing a trigger and having different transformations, it's fun. However, in the same way I said the book needs more plot, it also needs more world building. It has a lot of potential topics and possibilities related to astrology, and it's barely explored, we only get some mentions of compatibility based on the element of the sign and not much else.
If you wanna read a why choose, plot what plot, story with supernatural beings, I guess it's okay. I don't think the spicy stuff is extremely good, but it's decent. I don't think I'll continue reading this series because, while I'm curious about the other transformations, beings, and magic, it's not that interesting or even relevant in the story to keep me reading.
This is an ARC review, however this is my honest opinion.
December 23, 2024
Gray Academy: for the morally gray, I bet.
I love a twisted academy romance, and I love when two men compete for the same woman. It’s not the best writing in the world, and I thought I would stop at chapter 6, especially when I read the rape scene.
I managed to trip over that scene and keep reading, but I realized I have a kink, but not this one. I liked the non-con from J.L. Beck’s “The Wallflower” more. The FMC was invited by her knowing roommate to a party where consent is implied or socially known, but the female protagonist is naive. Therefore, anyone else thought she had consented to the game when she had not. But I decided that non-consensual scenes like this one with a sleeping woman who cannot react left a bad taste in my mouth.
Astrology, Or Magic System:
Briefly mentioned is a Greek zodiac and a Chinese zodiac. Only the Chinese zodiac has a fated mate option....so astrology is purely a complicated system to find one’s soulmate.
The zodiac determines when a student shifts, based on a full moon. Their powers erupt; they are dominated by their urges, but only if the trigger-of-the-month occurs.
The author mentioned that she has a MM Chinese zodiac version of Gray Academy that is darker.
The Romance:
⁃ multiple POV
⁃ Professor-student
⁃ Love Triangle (half-brothers)
⁃ Third partner TBC
⁃ Open door, two detailed scenes
⁃ Age-gap
⁃ Consensual rape (weird, huh?)
⁃
The men lose control and hate it. Lila loses control and decides she likes it.
It’s a fast-burn romantic read that I could finish. To be honest, I prefer the other book (Quicksilver, but my attention has sputtered), but I did see some merit in this start of a series: Marcus mentioned that he was all about control. I spent years feeling like I had no control over my life. I was depressed and spiraling downward. To see Marcus and Adrian dealing with the loss of control and realizing their feud is not worth the worry is precious to me.
So is it quality reading? No. The writing has some faults. But as a fluff piece or palate cleanser it works well. I would not read the series, but it worked for me as a standalone.
==========================================================
Characters:
Lila (Virgo, virgin, naive, clueless physics major)
Adrian (the professor, or Mr. Reluctant)
Marcus (Mr. Take her dead or alive)
Linda (the wannabee girlfriend)
Ceto (Mr. Sweet Talker
I love a twisted academy romance, and I love when two men compete for the same woman. It’s not the best writing in the world, and I thought I would stop at chapter 6, especially when I read the rape scene.
I managed to trip over that scene and keep reading, but I realized I have a kink, but not this one. I liked the non-con from J.L. Beck’s “The Wallflower” more. The FMC was invited by her knowing roommate to a party where consent is implied or socially known, but the female protagonist is naive. Therefore, anyone else thought she had consented to the game when she had not. But I decided that non-consensual scenes like this one with a sleeping woman who cannot react left a bad taste in my mouth.
Astrology, Or Magic System:
Briefly mentioned is a Greek zodiac and a Chinese zodiac. Only the Chinese zodiac has a fated mate option....so astrology is purely a complicated system to find one’s soulmate.
The zodiac determines when a student shifts, based on a full moon. Their powers erupt; they are dominated by their urges, but only if the trigger-of-the-month occurs.
The author mentioned that she has a MM Chinese zodiac version of Gray Academy that is darker.
The Romance:
⁃ multiple POV
⁃ Professor-student
⁃ Love Triangle (half-brothers)
⁃ Third partner TBC
⁃ Open door, two detailed scenes
⁃ Age-gap
⁃ Consensual rape (weird, huh?)
⁃
The men lose control and hate it. Lila loses control and decides she likes it.
It’s a fast-burn romantic read that I could finish. To be honest, I prefer the other book (Quicksilver, but my attention has sputtered), but I did see some merit in this start of a series: Marcus mentioned that he was all about control. I spent years feeling like I had no control over my life. I was depressed and spiraling downward. To see Marcus and Adrian dealing with the loss of control and realizing their feud is not worth the worry is precious to me.
So is it quality reading? No. The writing has some faults. But as a fluff piece or palate cleanser it works well. I would not read the series, but it worked for me as a standalone.
==========================================================
Characters:
Lila (Virgo, virgin, naive, clueless physics major)
Adrian (the professor, or Mr. Reluctant)
Marcus (Mr. Take her dead or alive)
Linda (the wannabee girlfriend)
Ceto (Mr. Sweet Talker
April 10, 2024
Welcome to Graves Academy!
This shifter-verse is kind of the place I go in my writing cave when I'm stuck or burned out and just want something fun, unhinged, and with lots of creative lore to play with, without going OVERLY dark and heavy (Although my opinion on what's Dark and other people's Dark may be very different, so please still check triggers!)
The lore of Astrology is surprisingly complex, and I've done a ton of research to try to portray each element accurately, so I hope those who have always loved the zodiac will find it rings true for them! Getting to learn endless trivia is one of my favorite parts of being a writer, and there's a lot to dig into on this one! If you don't know anything at all about Astrology coming in, you're about to learn a lot (No previous knowledge is required. Dr Karras is a professor, after all, haha)
And on a side note, I don't ordinarily write virgin FMCs for a reason, but this had a very plot relevant reason, which will make more and more sense as you progress through the series. You can expect a mix of humor, questionable spice, greek mythology, familiar paranormal monsters, and the forced proximity of dark academia, along side the whiplash of an innocent "human" thrown into an unfamiliar world she never knew existed in so, so many ways.
And just as a fun note, I’m personally a Capricorn born in the year of the Rabbit, and my forever partner is a Scorpio born in the year of the Dog, so the more I’ve delved into Astrology of both eastern and western origin, the more fun it’s been to see all these accidental patterns of compatibility I’ve fallen into in my own life (My partner doesn’t believe in coincidences, so maybe there’s something to that!)
That said, this isn't my first ever entry into this universe, but it is my first RH entry (If you enjoy MM+ though--the MM version of RH--dip into my Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series by Anni Lee! It's a bit more heavy, serious, and quite a bit darker, but it's one of my favorites!) The books are 100000% independent from each other though, so feel free to stick with your preferred pairings. You won't miss anything other than a small easter egg here or there.
As always, I hope you have fun with Zodiac Hybrids, and I hope you'll join me through Lila's tumultuous year at Graves Academy, as she learns to navigate each of these unique and brutal star signs!
This shifter-verse is kind of the place I go in my writing cave when I'm stuck or burned out and just want something fun, unhinged, and with lots of creative lore to play with, without going OVERLY dark and heavy (Although my opinion on what's Dark and other people's Dark may be very different, so please still check triggers!)
The lore of Astrology is surprisingly complex, and I've done a ton of research to try to portray each element accurately, so I hope those who have always loved the zodiac will find it rings true for them! Getting to learn endless trivia is one of my favorite parts of being a writer, and there's a lot to dig into on this one! If you don't know anything at all about Astrology coming in, you're about to learn a lot (No previous knowledge is required. Dr Karras is a professor, after all, haha)
And on a side note, I don't ordinarily write virgin FMCs for a reason, but this had a very plot relevant reason, which will make more and more sense as you progress through the series. You can expect a mix of humor, questionable spice, greek mythology, familiar paranormal monsters, and the forced proximity of dark academia, along side the whiplash of an innocent "human" thrown into an unfamiliar world she never knew existed in so, so many ways.
And just as a fun note, I’m personally a Capricorn born in the year of the Rabbit, and my forever partner is a Scorpio born in the year of the Dog, so the more I’ve delved into Astrology of both eastern and western origin, the more fun it’s been to see all these accidental patterns of compatibility I’ve fallen into in my own life (My partner doesn’t believe in coincidences, so maybe there’s something to that!)
That said, this isn't my first ever entry into this universe, but it is my first RH entry (If you enjoy MM+ though--the MM version of RH--dip into my Shifters of the Chinese Zodiac series by Anni Lee! It's a bit more heavy, serious, and quite a bit darker, but it's one of my favorites!) The books are 100000% independent from each other though, so feel free to stick with your preferred pairings. You won't miss anything other than a small easter egg here or there.
As always, I hope you have fun with Zodiac Hybrids, and I hope you'll join me through Lila's tumultuous year at Graves Academy, as she learns to navigate each of these unique and brutal star signs!
October 18, 2024
"Zodiac Hybrids"
Monsters of Graves Academy Book 1
by Leann Belle
I love everything about Astrological Zodiac Signs, so this series caught me in first place because of that. Also, I most confess that I love a blind date with a book so I don't read the book description or anything that indicates to me what I was about to read. I just chose my read base on the cover and the title 🤭😉
The story starts with knowing Lila through her monologues. She's nerdy 🤓, and has a huge lack of confidence in herself. She wasn't accepted by the college she applied.. She was lost in thousands thoughts about her life past, present and future, in all aspects. She didn’t know what to do with her life.
What Lila doesn't know was that her mother signed her up into another college. The one college her mom assisted when she was at Lila age..
Lila doesn't have a clue about what she was driven toward. Just a new college that she had never heard before, and she would never expect what she was going to face there.
It is such a twisty plot with the FMC learning things into a rush way. She isn't an expert on anything in life. Not even have friends, neither boyfriend didn't know how to interact or make friends etc. A total introvert, consumed by her overthinker mind.
I can see potential in this series . 🔥 It was complicated in some parts with all the info about zodiac mixed with the shifters. But enjoyable once you keep reading is hard to put down. It
will keep you interested page after page.
😈 Multiple POVs
🧛♂️ Age Gap
😈 Paranormal Romance
🧛♂️ Somnophilia
😈 Shifter
🧛♂️ Fated Mated? Who knows... 🤔
😈 Intrigue
🧛♂️ Virgin
😈 Reverse Harem
It's an interesting, creative and unique story. It was well written. A good introduction to the series.
I would highly recommend to read the content warning ⚠️ before reading this book. Your mental health matters.
But if you love dark romance and reverse harem, this is for you.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens. I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
The author has said it's going to be 6 books in the series covering all the Zodiac Signs, so Yasss!!!🖤 ♍️♈️♊️♑️♉️♒️♏️♎️♌️♓️♐️♋️
I'm here for it and for the Monsters 🖤
On my way to start reading Book 2 right away... 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️💨 I Want to see if Lila finds out she isn't human.
Monsters of Graves Academy Book 1
by Leann Belle
I love everything about Astrological Zodiac Signs, so this series caught me in first place because of that. Also, I most confess that I love a blind date with a book so I don't read the book description or anything that indicates to me what I was about to read. I just chose my read base on the cover and the title 🤭😉
The story starts with knowing Lila through her monologues. She's nerdy 🤓, and has a huge lack of confidence in herself. She wasn't accepted by the college she applied.. She was lost in thousands thoughts about her life past, present and future, in all aspects. She didn’t know what to do with her life.
What Lila doesn't know was that her mother signed her up into another college. The one college her mom assisted when she was at Lila age..
Lila doesn't have a clue about what she was driven toward. Just a new college that she had never heard before, and she would never expect what she was going to face there.
It is such a twisty plot with the FMC learning things into a rush way. She isn't an expert on anything in life. Not even have friends, neither boyfriend didn't know how to interact or make friends etc. A total introvert, consumed by her overthinker mind.
I can see potential in this series . 🔥 It was complicated in some parts with all the info about zodiac mixed with the shifters. But enjoyable once you keep reading is hard to put down. It
will keep you interested page after page.
😈 Multiple POVs
🧛♂️ Age Gap
😈 Paranormal Romance
🧛♂️ Somnophilia
😈 Shifter
🧛♂️ Fated Mated? Who knows... 🤔
😈 Intrigue
🧛♂️ Virgin
😈 Reverse Harem
It's an interesting, creative and unique story. It was well written. A good introduction to the series.
I would highly recommend to read the content warning ⚠️ before reading this book. Your mental health matters.
But if you love dark romance and reverse harem, this is for you.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens. I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
The author has said it's going to be 6 books in the series covering all the Zodiac Signs, so Yasss!!!🖤 ♍️♈️♊️♑️♉️♒️♏️♎️♌️♓️♐️♋️
I'm here for it and for the Monsters 🖤
On my way to start reading Book 2 right away... 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️💨 I Want to see if Lila finds out she isn't human.
Did Not Finish
August 29, 2026Dnf at 8%
The FMC is so naive and her thoughts are so cringe.
I stopped reading the moment she described how sexy her teacher was during their first encounter… and then went on for quite a while about how sexy he was. Way too much for my tolerance at this stage of the book :)
I’m just over this kind of development. Is it really that difficult to build a relationship between two people without making everything feel so simplistic?
Why am I supposed to be excited about this man? Because he’s sexy… ah wow. Where is the tension, the depth, the chemistry, all the things they have in common? I don’t have anything that makes me want to keep reading to find out if there’s more to it. The first impression is enough for me.
"[...] and I found myself on the other side of the tether of his stare. He looked mature, maybe mid-thirties, judging by the vague hints of crow’s feet that lightly rested above his high cheekbones. His hair was short, dark brown, and attractively messy, with trim, intentional stubble that was just a bit more than a five-o-clock shadow. The eyes that bore into me were such a vibrant shade of turquoise that they looked almost inhuman. He was dressed professionally, with creased slacks and a white button-up, though the way his dress pants strained against his thick quads, I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of physics he was practicing in the gym in between solving advanced equations. My eyes drifted upwards from his strong legs to the white cotton that couldn’t hide his lean yet muscular chest. A black tie drew the eye up his flat stomach, over his built chest, up his neck and over his sharp jawline, until my gaze finally returned to his face. The place where my eyes should have been all along. Because I was absolutely not checking out a teacher. I choked on my hormones as I tried to shove all any questionable thoughts back down. I was here to study, not imagine what he looked like naked. Or what he could do to me if I was naked. Which I wasn’t doing. Because he was way too old for me anyway. I mean, not that his age mattered either. Or his relationship to me. Or anything about him at all, since he was a teacher and that was inappropriate and scandalous, and even if he was my age and not an authority figure, guys like that, with the body of a Greek god and the face of a movie star, definitely had no interest in a girl like me."
The FMC is so naive and her thoughts are so cringe.
I stopped reading the moment she described how sexy her teacher was during their first encounter… and then went on for quite a while about how sexy he was. Way too much for my tolerance at this stage of the book :)
I’m just over this kind of development. Is it really that difficult to build a relationship between two people without making everything feel so simplistic?
Why am I supposed to be excited about this man? Because he’s sexy… ah wow. Where is the tension, the depth, the chemistry, all the things they have in common? I don’t have anything that makes me want to keep reading to find out if there’s more to it. The first impression is enough for me.
"[...] and I found myself on the other side of the tether of his stare. He looked mature, maybe mid-thirties, judging by the vague hints of crow’s feet that lightly rested above his high cheekbones. His hair was short, dark brown, and attractively messy, with trim, intentional stubble that was just a bit more than a five-o-clock shadow. The eyes that bore into me were such a vibrant shade of turquoise that they looked almost inhuman. He was dressed professionally, with creased slacks and a white button-up, though the way his dress pants strained against his thick quads, I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of physics he was practicing in the gym in between solving advanced equations. My eyes drifted upwards from his strong legs to the white cotton that couldn’t hide his lean yet muscular chest. A black tie drew the eye up his flat stomach, over his built chest, up his neck and over his sharp jawline, until my gaze finally returned to his face. The place where my eyes should have been all along. Because I was absolutely not checking out a teacher. I choked on my hormones as I tried to shove all any questionable thoughts back down. I was here to study, not imagine what he looked like naked. Or what he could do to me if I was naked. Which I wasn’t doing. Because he was way too old for me anyway. I mean, not that his age mattered either. Or his relationship to me. Or anything about him at all, since he was a teacher and that was inappropriate and scandalous, and even if he was my age and not an authority figure, guys like that, with the body of a Greek god and the face of a movie star, definitely had no interest in a girl like me."
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