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Grotesque Love
The day my mother died, my world shattered.
My voice was silenced. My freedom stolen. My sanity fractured.
Confined to Clifton Manor, a sprawling estate turned prison, I live under the oppressive watch of my stepfather, my only company the monstrous stone sentinels who guard the house.
Their promises to protect and love me are what give me the strength to face my twisted reality.
But as we uncover the sinister legacy lurking within its walls, I realise that the man who claims to care for me might be more terrifying than the monsters.
Note: This is a Why Choose supernatural Rapunzel inspired tale with echoes of Bluebeard and other gothic classics. Expect gargoyles, grotesques, braided hair and a crumbling tower. As well as sword crossing and magical curses. Please read the content warnings.
My voice was silenced. My freedom stolen. My sanity fractured.
Confined to Clifton Manor, a sprawling estate turned prison, I live under the oppressive watch of my stepfather, my only company the monstrous stone sentinels who guard the house.
Their promises to protect and love me are what give me the strength to face my twisted reality.
But as we uncover the sinister legacy lurking within its walls, I realise that the man who claims to care for me might be more terrifying than the monsters.
Note: This is a Why Choose supernatural Rapunzel inspired tale with echoes of Bluebeard and other gothic classics. Expect gargoyles, grotesques, braided hair and a crumbling tower. As well as sword crossing and magical curses. Please read the content warnings.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
September 3, 2024
It's a no from me, dawg.
The thing about these multi-author series is that you never know what you're going to get. This is the 2nd book in this series that I've read and it does not have the same vibes as the other book that I read. Not even close to the same vibes. For reference, I read Little Red and Her Creatures of Chaos first.
This was DARK. Like hella dark. The authors do have content warnings on their website, but to be frank, it probably needed to just be in print at the beginning of the book, spoilers be damned. I was expecting something dark and twisty, but I got something so much darker than I was anticipating and I gotta say, I did not enjoy myself. Again, I can't stress enough how different this was from the other book in this series that I read, so I felt a little bit confused on why they were even lumped together. Their only similarities are that they're fairytale retellings.
The other thing about this is that I was BORED during a large portion of this book. Which.. makes no sense, truly. It's just that nothing was happening to move the story forward. Time was passing, but nothing was actually happening and it was honestly hard to read because of the subject matter. Just... I wasn't a fan.
So yea, I can't say that I recommend this one and honestly wished I had just DNF'd it. And not to beat a dead horse, but if you're reading this whole multi-author series then just know that the vibes are not cohesive throughout.
The thing about these multi-author series is that you never know what you're going to get. This is the 2nd book in this series that I've read and it does not have the same vibes as the other book that I read. Not even close to the same vibes. For reference, I read Little Red and Her Creatures of Chaos first.
This was DARK. Like hella dark. The authors do have content warnings on their website, but to be frank, it probably needed to just be in print at the beginning of the book, spoilers be damned. I was expecting something dark and twisty, but I got something so much darker than I was anticipating and I gotta say, I did not enjoy myself. Again, I can't stress enough how different this was from the other book in this series that I read, so I felt a little bit confused on why they were even lumped together. Their only similarities are that they're fairytale retellings.
The other thing about this is that I was BORED during a large portion of this book. Which.. makes no sense, truly. It's just that nothing was happening to move the story forward. Time was passing, but nothing was actually happening and it was honestly hard to read because of the subject matter. Just... I wasn't a fan.
So yea, I can't say that I recommend this one and honestly wished I had just DNF'd it. And not to beat a dead horse, but if you're reading this whole multi-author series then just know that the vibes are not cohesive throughout.
July 17, 2024
Wow! Just Wow! I went into this blind and did know what to expect. I did not trust the FMC but I believe that is crucial to the story. Once I got into this book I could not put it down. I fell so in love with Arianwen's monsters. Each one of them for a completely different reason. The story is so creative. At some point my heart was racing because I thought I would hate the ending. I really had no idea how the conclusion would unfold and lets just say I was so obsessed with the ending it brought me to literal tears. Yes I know this is not real but these characters became my family. This book was amazingly suspenseful, creative, and just a good read.
Quote~
I cringe, hating that I have spoken to him. After so long, months of silence, I no longer wanted to give him my words.
Quote~
I cringe, hating that I have spoken to him. After so long, months of silence, I no longer wanted to give him my words.
July 11, 2024
WOW omg this book was good. The minute I started reading it i found it very hard to stop. It had a twist that im still shocked about like I knew there was something weird going on but what was actually happening shocked the crap out of me.
I loved this retelling of rapunzel. I two thing that I really liked were that the tower that she couldn't actually leave without her mens help was her safe place. I loved that a lot. Also her using her hair as a weapon was amazing. I feel like that showed how far strong she was even after everything that she went through.
I absolutely loved the guys, especially the way they were with her. There was definitely an instant connection between them and it just kept growing. Every time they got together i was smiling so much bc I found them so adorable. They were really obsessed with her and I love that. The way they cared for her had me melting. They were sweet monsters.
The book had a good mix of sweetness, spice, and some craziness to keep you hooked. I really enjoyed this one. Liked the writing so i need to go check out the authors other works bc I need more.
The only thing was the ending. I'm confused a little bit bc how are they surviving? How are they getting money? Did the cops not investigate? I have a couple of questions about that but you know what I'm actually so happy with the ending, in her getting her happy ending with her men and her nightmare being gone that it truly doesn't even matter how they living after everything 😭😭😭
I loved this retelling of rapunzel. I two thing that I really liked were that the tower that she couldn't actually leave without her mens help was her safe place. I loved that a lot. Also her using her hair as a weapon was amazing. I feel like that showed how far strong she was even after everything that she went through.
I absolutely loved the guys, especially the way they were with her. There was definitely an instant connection between them and it just kept growing. Every time they got together i was smiling so much bc I found them so adorable. They were really obsessed with her and I love that. The way they cared for her had me melting. They were sweet monsters.
The book had a good mix of sweetness, spice, and some craziness to keep you hooked. I really enjoyed this one. Liked the writing so i need to go check out the authors other works bc I need more.
The only thing was the ending. I'm confused a little bit bc how are they surviving? How are they getting money? Did the cops not investigate? I have a couple of questions about that but you know what I'm actually so happy with the ending, in her getting her happy ending with her men and her nightmare being gone that it truly doesn't even matter how they living after everything 😭😭😭
July 5, 2024
I have to say when i see a crystal north book,i automatically want to read it as ive enjoyed all her books ive read so far.
This one was no different.
This is a book in a series that is by multi authors.
It is a why choose,gothic l,adult retelling with some sword crossing involved.
There are tws so please read them before if you have any triggers.
My heart went to ari,who after her mother doed was left in the hands of her step father and he had some twisted ways of taking care of her.
Jasper,Saxon and Malachite are cursed gargoyles who during the daylight they are turned to stone,but at night,well,they are free.
They soon fall for ari and try their best to look after and protect her.
Cant wait to read more from this series
This one was no different.
This is a book in a series that is by multi authors.
It is a why choose,gothic l,adult retelling with some sword crossing involved.
There are tws so please read them before if you have any triggers.
My heart went to ari,who after her mother doed was left in the hands of her step father and he had some twisted ways of taking care of her.
Jasper,Saxon and Malachite are cursed gargoyles who during the daylight they are turned to stone,but at night,well,they are free.
They soon fall for ari and try their best to look after and protect her.
Cant wait to read more from this series
July 19, 2024
Grotesque Love by Crystal North and Alice La Roux is the 3rd book in the Fairy Tales With A Monstrous Twist series. This is a dark retelling of Rupunzel. Arianwen has lost her mother. Her stepfather is caring for her in his home and medicating her to the point she sleeps and loses track of days. However in the darkness she finds protection from Mal, Sax, and Jas that happen to be grotesques and gargoyles that are tied to the house. Will they all find their happily ever after?
I am in love with this series and this story does not disappoint. I can't help feeling sorry for Ari as she is so drugged she feels she can't trust herself or her memories. However her instincts scream when in the presence of her stepfather the true monster of this book. The gargoyles see her as pure and innocent, someone to protect.
This tale is a why-choose with separate M/M relationships, gothic retelling of Rupunzel. If you have trigger please check the content warning as there are some parts of the story some could find disturbing. That said it is an amazing story with lots of spice. If you like dark, why-choose, gothic, retellings this is a must read.
I am in love with this series and this story does not disappoint. I can't help feeling sorry for Ari as she is so drugged she feels she can't trust herself or her memories. However her instincts scream when in the presence of her stepfather the true monster of this book. The gargoyles see her as pure and innocent, someone to protect.
This tale is a why-choose with separate M/M relationships, gothic retelling of Rupunzel. If you have trigger please check the content warning as there are some parts of the story some could find disturbing. That said it is an amazing story with lots of spice. If you like dark, why-choose, gothic, retellings this is a must read.
June 27, 2024
I was lucky to receive this as an ARC! I loved this story even though it was really tough to stomach certain events for a while there. Poor Ari. I’m so glad that Carver got what he deserved and that Ari got to get revenge for what he did to her. Enough about that little rat because he’s not worth the time, and now about the boysssss, or should I say mennnnn👀 I loved the existing dynamic between the three males, especially Sax and Mal. However, I love how the dynamic between Jasper and Mal developed. The way that they all three did everything they could in order to help save Ari from her situation while also empowering her was swoon worthy. The ending was so cute and I’m so happy that they all got their happy ever after. 🏃🏼♀️Running to the bonus epilogue now🏃🏼♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2024
I love a book where I'm wondering what is going on in the background, a mystery to be revealed as the story goes on. This book did a great time with that concept and unraveled everything perfectly. It started with putting doubt into our minds with the pills and not understanding how we got to this point. To show little red flags that were being ignored. I felt like it was a good remake of Rapunzel without going as far as being like tangled. Ari, the FMC, did make me angry at times but that's because I'm fully conscious and she was not in the end she really came into herself with the guys' help. Mal, Jas, and Sax were really great MMCs, I think my favorite had to be Mal. I love a tortured soul. This book was also super spicy and had such great group and individual scenes
June 30, 2024
I like the idea of this book and it has potential but for some reason, I got bored with it.
July 14, 2024
This was my first from these authors! It was fantastic. I'm not usually a monster girl, but this one was addicting! It was definitely dark with a capital D, but I was absolutely here for it. I loved the several different POVs, especially the villians. It's most assuredly unnerving. I thoroughly enjoyed it and found it hard to out down. If you're of the monster persuasion, definitely give this go!!
July 9, 2024
This was a great monster book. This was about Ari. Her and her mother were arguing because Ari wanted to go to a party and her mother didn’t want her to. They lived with Carter who was her stepfather. Her mother ended up getting into a car accident that night with a drunk driver and didn’t survive. So it was just Ari and Carter. She pretty much slept all the time and she didn’t know why. Carter went away to the city for a while and Ari was left with the groundskeeper. He was supposed to make sure she had her medicine. She pretended to take it and then hid it. She had 3 people to protect her. Mal, Jas and Sax. Their history as to how they came about is interesting.
July 13, 2024
Grotesque Love is a Rapunzel type retelling with a monstrous twist. Arianwen is kept in a remote location away from her old life by her stepfather after her mother’s death. She’s overcome with grief and guilt and her stepfather has been “taken” care of her ever since.
This book is a RH with ⚔️ crossing. If you like monster smut, mystery, and curses, this book is def for you.
This book is a RH with ⚔️ crossing. If you like monster smut, mystery, and curses, this book is def for you.
July 15, 2024
Absolutely disturbing and spicy AF. PNR RH MMFM
July 10, 2024
This was my first gargoyle based book. I didn’t know how I was going to feel about it when I first started reading it. I loved it. Rapunzel is one of my favorite stories, so this retelling was interesting to say the least.
🌶️:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 26, 2024
I absolutely love retellings and reimaginings. This one was different though. I’ve never read anything like it!
This is kind of Rapunzel, kind of Hunch back of notre dam. However, I absolutely loved it. I’ve read other crystal north book but none with a coauthor. I will definitely be changing that in the future! I can’t wait to read the rest in this series!!!
This is kind of Rapunzel, kind of Hunch back of notre dam. However, I absolutely loved it. I’ve read other crystal north book but none with a coauthor. I will definitely be changing that in the future! I can’t wait to read the rest in this series!!!
June 26, 2024
Format: 📱 eBook 📱
Check TWs before this one - there's quite a few and it definitely toes the line.
This was genuinely such a unique take on a Rapunzel retelling, and I honest to god ate it up. It was dark and twisted (as most books you can expect with North as part of the writing team), filled with twists and turns, with some great humour and some surprisingly emotional moments thrown in, too.
Overall this book held a sweet love story of a human girl falling for her three monster guardians - two grotesques and a gargoyle - surrounded by the darkness of the curse and what was happening to her. We were privy to some of the things, but North and La Roux wrote this in such a way that left us to discover things as Ari and her monsters did, which made for such an amazing, immersive reading experience.
This book deals heavily with mental health - both Ari's and what is forced upon her. I loved how the authors showed her dealing with it, and the path of her recovery. Ari is an amazingly strong character, considering what she's going through, and I loved reading as she found herself, and pushed herself to realise there was more out there for her.
Jas, Mal and Sax. Our three monstrous love interests were all beautifully unique, amazingly written and created the perfect found family for Ari. Jas, the sweetheart golden retriever grotesque; Mal, the broody asshole gargoyle who pushes boundaries (and loves the punishment after); and Sax, the Alpha Daddy of the group. There is sword crossing between our three monstrous men, as well as plenty of delicious spice involving Ari. Let's not forget the special *ahem* extras that these monsters bring to the bedroom, either.
All this is encompassed with the idea that the monsters can only come to life when the sun sets, so rescuing Ari from all that is happening in the manor proves to be a difficult task. But the story created as you read it? Honestly, sign me up for more, because I genuinely loved it and did not want it to end. I want more of Ari and her monsters, as well as more from this writing duo!
Thank you to the authors and the Fairytales With a Monstrous Twist team for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check TWs before this one - there's quite a few and it definitely toes the line.
This was genuinely such a unique take on a Rapunzel retelling, and I honest to god ate it up. It was dark and twisted (as most books you can expect with North as part of the writing team), filled with twists and turns, with some great humour and some surprisingly emotional moments thrown in, too.
Overall this book held a sweet love story of a human girl falling for her three monster guardians - two grotesques and a gargoyle - surrounded by the darkness of the curse and what was happening to her. We were privy to some of the things, but North and La Roux wrote this in such a way that left us to discover things as Ari and her monsters did, which made for such an amazing, immersive reading experience.
This book deals heavily with mental health - both Ari's and what is forced upon her. I loved how the authors showed her dealing with it, and the path of her recovery. Ari is an amazingly strong character, considering what she's going through, and I loved reading as she found herself, and pushed herself to realise there was more out there for her.
Jas, Mal and Sax. Our three monstrous love interests were all beautifully unique, amazingly written and created the perfect found family for Ari. Jas, the sweetheart golden retriever grotesque; Mal, the broody asshole gargoyle who pushes boundaries (and loves the punishment after); and Sax, the Alpha Daddy of the group. There is sword crossing between our three monstrous men, as well as plenty of delicious spice involving Ari. Let's not forget the special *ahem* extras that these monsters bring to the bedroom, either.
All this is encompassed with the idea that the monsters can only come to life when the sun sets, so rescuing Ari from all that is happening in the manor proves to be a difficult task. But the story created as you read it? Honestly, sign me up for more, because I genuinely loved it and did not want it to end. I want more of Ari and her monsters, as well as more from this writing duo!
Thank you to the authors and the Fairytales With a Monstrous Twist team for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
June 29, 2024
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🏰 Rapunzel/ Blue Beard Retelling w/ a twist
🏰 Gothic Romance
🏰 Mental Health Representation
🏰 Etc.
Let me tell you.... READ THIS NOW!!
So, I'm not going to tell a lie... I started this a little hesitantly, and not expecting much, but was drawn in by the the third page. The writing is so good and flows so seamlessly that it's easy to feel the emotions that are being conveyed in the story as well as imagine the scenarios that are taking place.
Arianwen is a young woman that has been kept captive and medicated since her mother's death by her stepfather. He claims that it's for her own good, and that when she starts to get better he will let her out into the world, but has her convinced that she's too fragile right now. When he leaves her on 'business trips', she is taken care of by the creepy housekeeper, but senses that something else is going on around the house. When she sees the gargoyles, she initially feels something between them all, but ultimately chalks it up to an episode.
Insert the men.... Or gargoyles and grotesque. Sax, Mal, and Jas have been cursed to stay on this houses property for years. During the day they turn in stone, but can sense what is going on around them, and at night they are able to move around. They believe that Arianwen is going to be their savior and end the curse that has plagued them for so long.
I loved the relationship between Sax, Mal and Jas. The way that they were all different, but just looking to love Arianwen was so nice. Sax is the leader, he takes care of everyone, knows what they want before they do, and sees to it. Mal is the brooding grumpy face. Though he enjoys his time with Sax and Jas, he also tends to push them away by being gruff and blocking them from his emotions. And Jas is the sweetest of them all. His character in the story is similar to a young man that wants the love and acceptance of everyone, but is also there to help them no matter what they need.
This book was so good, and the spice was on spot. I loved reading this, and hope to read more from Crystal North and Alice La Roux in the future.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🏰 Rapunzel/ Blue Beard Retelling w/ a twist
🏰 Gothic Romance
🏰 Mental Health Representation
🏰 Etc.
Let me tell you.... READ THIS NOW!!
So, I'm not going to tell a lie... I started this a little hesitantly, and not expecting much, but was drawn in by the the third page. The writing is so good and flows so seamlessly that it's easy to feel the emotions that are being conveyed in the story as well as imagine the scenarios that are taking place.
Arianwen is a young woman that has been kept captive and medicated since her mother's death by her stepfather. He claims that it's for her own good, and that when she starts to get better he will let her out into the world, but has her convinced that she's too fragile right now. When he leaves her on 'business trips', she is taken care of by the creepy housekeeper, but senses that something else is going on around the house. When she sees the gargoyles, she initially feels something between them all, but ultimately chalks it up to an episode.
Insert the men.... Or gargoyles and grotesque. Sax, Mal, and Jas have been cursed to stay on this houses property for years. During the day they turn in stone, but can sense what is going on around them, and at night they are able to move around. They believe that Arianwen is going to be their savior and end the curse that has plagued them for so long.
I loved the relationship between Sax, Mal and Jas. The way that they were all different, but just looking to love Arianwen was so nice. Sax is the leader, he takes care of everyone, knows what they want before they do, and sees to it. Mal is the brooding grumpy face. Though he enjoys his time with Sax and Jas, he also tends to push them away by being gruff and blocking them from his emotions. And Jas is the sweetest of them all. His character in the story is similar to a young man that wants the love and acceptance of everyone, but is also there to help them no matter what they need.
This book was so good, and the spice was on spot. I loved reading this, and hope to read more from Crystal North and Alice La Roux in the future.
November 19, 2025
Grotesque Love is a compelling, emotionally rich, and deeply Gothic twist on a classic fairy tale. If you enjoy dark romance, monstrous guardians, and stories built around trauma, healing, and resilience, this book will pull you in from the very first page. The world is vivid, atmospheric, and haunting, with high stakes and relationships that feel authentic, powerful, and deeply earned.
The story follows Arianwen (Ari), whose life is shattered after her mother’s death, leaving her trapped under the control of her twisted stepfather, Carver. Confined within Clifton Manor—a place that feels far more like a prison than a home—Ari’s isolation sets the stage for a slow-unfolding mystery full of curses, monstrous protectors, and dangerous secrets.
Her guardians, Jasper, Saxon, and Malachite, bring the perfect blend of tenderness and terror to the narrative, offering both emotional support and fierce protection as Ari unravels the truth about her past and the curse binding them all. The spice in this book is intense and frequent, balancing beautifully with the emotional depth of Ari’s journey.
On the darker side, Grotesque Love dives headfirst into themes of abuse, manipulation, mental instability, and psychological trauma. Readers sensitive to heavy content should absolutely check the warnings first. Carver’s gory revelations and sinister behavior add a true horror edge to this already Gothic romance.
Overall, Grotesque Love is a dark, decadent, and gripping story—part fairy-tale retelling, part monster romance, and entirely immersive. Perfect for readers who crave beauty entwined with brutality, healing alongside hurt, and love that’s as monstrous as it is devoted.
The story follows Arianwen (Ari), whose life is shattered after her mother’s death, leaving her trapped under the control of her twisted stepfather, Carver. Confined within Clifton Manor—a place that feels far more like a prison than a home—Ari’s isolation sets the stage for a slow-unfolding mystery full of curses, monstrous protectors, and dangerous secrets.
Her guardians, Jasper, Saxon, and Malachite, bring the perfect blend of tenderness and terror to the narrative, offering both emotional support and fierce protection as Ari unravels the truth about her past and the curse binding them all. The spice in this book is intense and frequent, balancing beautifully with the emotional depth of Ari’s journey.
On the darker side, Grotesque Love dives headfirst into themes of abuse, manipulation, mental instability, and psychological trauma. Readers sensitive to heavy content should absolutely check the warnings first. Carver’s gory revelations and sinister behavior add a true horror edge to this already Gothic romance.
Overall, Grotesque Love is a dark, decadent, and gripping story—part fairy-tale retelling, part monster romance, and entirely immersive. Perfect for readers who crave beauty entwined with brutality, healing alongside hurt, and love that’s as monstrous as it is devoted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2024
This is not your typical Rapunzel story with the evil stepmother and I for one was 100% here for it.
Who knew an evil stepfather could totally change everything we knew about Rapunzel. Ari is strong, despite the fact that she is being kept down and made weak by Carver. It was interesting to see that Ari wasn't always kept in her tower like Rapunzel traditionally was but it was really fun to see that she had moments where she was able to get out and piece together the mystery that has surrounded the tragedy of her life all while finding love with Mal, Jas and Sax.
The introduction of gargoyles and grotesques was really unique and different. They all have Ari's best interest at heart and have a need to protect her despite the fact that there are certainly limitations as to how they are able to keep her safe. It was also really fun to not only see their relationship with Ari developed and grew both in trust and in chemistry but the relationship between all of the guys as well, especially Mal and Jas and how their relationship grew. I think they all had a comfort with each other that only grew over time but wasn't a relationship that was rushed- the development was perfectly timed and the chemistry was fantastic.
I also think the mystery in this story was well played out. You know as the reader that there is a deeper, darker secret in this story and the fact that it wasn't shoved right in your face in the beginning and was well drawn out in the story keeps you engaged and on edge trying to figure it all out
Who knew an evil stepfather could totally change everything we knew about Rapunzel. Ari is strong, despite the fact that she is being kept down and made weak by Carver. It was interesting to see that Ari wasn't always kept in her tower like Rapunzel traditionally was but it was really fun to see that she had moments where she was able to get out and piece together the mystery that has surrounded the tragedy of her life all while finding love with Mal, Jas and Sax.
The introduction of gargoyles and grotesques was really unique and different. They all have Ari's best interest at heart and have a need to protect her despite the fact that there are certainly limitations as to how they are able to keep her safe. It was also really fun to not only see their relationship with Ari developed and grew both in trust and in chemistry but the relationship between all of the guys as well, especially Mal and Jas and how their relationship grew. I think they all had a comfort with each other that only grew over time but wasn't a relationship that was rushed- the development was perfectly timed and the chemistry was fantastic.
I also think the mystery in this story was well played out. You know as the reader that there is a deeper, darker secret in this story and the fact that it wasn't shoved right in your face in the beginning and was well drawn out in the story keeps you engaged and on edge trying to figure it all out
June 27, 2024
This is another edition in the Fairy Tales with a Monstruous Twist, and I would check out the TW’s for this book, if you do and nothing there annoys you then jump on in, to this monstruous tale.
This book was very good and I loved the start of this book that it seemed disjointed but it accompanied Arianwen’s (Ari) state of mind perfectly and where the story fell.
This book is dark and twisted with twists and turns that keep you on your toes, you keep pushing with Ari to get through that brain fog to move past the unknown. Your feet follow her path and what a path she is on. Ari has a sense of niavity but underneath this is a woman waiting to be let free and when she does what a woman she is.
Then we have her men Sax, Mal and Jas – the leader, the troublemaker and the sweet and loveable. These men alone are hot, together they are sizzling hotness. Their dynamics together is hilarious and sizzling and then add their pursuit of Ari into the mix..... While we have three mmc each character is alive in this book and brings a different dynamic that fits so well with the overall group.
My favourite quote in this book: “Maybe my dreams were so vivid because I'd chased my way to release in the garden yesterday, on the back of that giant stone statue. Using a garden ornament to get myself off isn’t exactly normal behaviour.”
This book was very good and I loved the start of this book that it seemed disjointed but it accompanied Arianwen’s (Ari) state of mind perfectly and where the story fell.
This book is dark and twisted with twists and turns that keep you on your toes, you keep pushing with Ari to get through that brain fog to move past the unknown. Your feet follow her path and what a path she is on. Ari has a sense of niavity but underneath this is a woman waiting to be let free and when she does what a woman she is.
Then we have her men Sax, Mal and Jas – the leader, the troublemaker and the sweet and loveable. These men alone are hot, together they are sizzling hotness. Their dynamics together is hilarious and sizzling and then add their pursuit of Ari into the mix..... While we have three mmc each character is alive in this book and brings a different dynamic that fits so well with the overall group.
My favourite quote in this book: “Maybe my dreams were so vivid because I'd chased my way to release in the garden yesterday, on the back of that giant stone statue. Using a garden ornament to get myself off isn’t exactly normal behaviour.”
June 28, 2024
I loved the nods to gothic romance in this which is perfect for a princess in the tower retelling. Ari has been left reliant on her stepfather after her mother dies and her grief overcomes her. Whilst recovering in isolation in her stepfather's manor, she starts to realise not all is as it seems.
Although Ari is the main character, I enjoyed the relationships between Sax, Mal and Jas just as much and the family they became. I loved the development between Mal and Jas especially which although this was a fast paced read still felt earned and added some depth to their characters. I liked Carver as a character too and how he was written as it was just such a piece of work. I would have loved to know more about the curse though as I thought Ari was going to end being connected to that in some way. I was also waiting for Cameron to come back at some point as he called her Princess first; this book definitely had enough mystery to keep me engaged and all in all, a great fast paced monster read.
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
Although Ari is the main character, I enjoyed the relationships between Sax, Mal and Jas just as much and the family they became. I loved the development between Mal and Jas especially which although this was a fast paced read still felt earned and added some depth to their characters. I liked Carver as a character too and how he was written as it was just such a piece of work. I would have loved to know more about the curse though as I thought Ari was going to end being connected to that in some way. I was also waiting for Cameron to come back at some point as he called her Princess first; this book definitely had enough mystery to keep me engaged and all in all, a great fast paced monster read.
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
November 28, 2025
grotesque love by crystal north & alice laroux ★★☆☆☆
this book had a wild concept going for it, a gothic, monstrous twist on a fairy-tale with rapunzel vibes, gargoyles, curses, and creepy mansions, and i really wanted to be into it. the atmosphere was heavy, dark, and definitely unique. the idea of stone creatures, a cursed manor, and a woman trying to claw her way out of trauma had potential for something haunting and intense.
but honestly, it leaned too hard into the darkness for me. the horror and trauma felt relentless, and at times the story became more exhausting than engaging. i struggled with how genuinely disturbing some scenes were, which made it hard to keep reading without needing a break.
the pacing didn’t help. there were long stretches where little seemed to happen, and then big, shocking events would hit all at once. instead of building tension steadily, it felt like riding a rollercoaster built by someone who forgot to test the brakes.
i appreciated that the authors went all in on the gothic, horror, and romance mash up. when things worked, like the creepy setting, the tension, and the flashes of hope, it had moments that could’ve been something special. but overall, the darkness and lack of balance between trauma and payoff made it a hard read.
two stars for concept and ambition, but this one was a hard pass for me in terms of enjoyment.
this book had a wild concept going for it, a gothic, monstrous twist on a fairy-tale with rapunzel vibes, gargoyles, curses, and creepy mansions, and i really wanted to be into it. the atmosphere was heavy, dark, and definitely unique. the idea of stone creatures, a cursed manor, and a woman trying to claw her way out of trauma had potential for something haunting and intense.
but honestly, it leaned too hard into the darkness for me. the horror and trauma felt relentless, and at times the story became more exhausting than engaging. i struggled with how genuinely disturbing some scenes were, which made it hard to keep reading without needing a break.
the pacing didn’t help. there were long stretches where little seemed to happen, and then big, shocking events would hit all at once. instead of building tension steadily, it felt like riding a rollercoaster built by someone who forgot to test the brakes.
i appreciated that the authors went all in on the gothic, horror, and romance mash up. when things worked, like the creepy setting, the tension, and the flashes of hope, it had moments that could’ve been something special. but overall, the darkness and lack of balance between trauma and payoff made it a hard read.
two stars for concept and ambition, but this one was a hard pass for me in terms of enjoyment.
June 30, 2024
Crystal North and Alice La Roux took me totally by surprise. Grotesque Love wasn't as light as the two previous books, it had a darker edge that grabbed me from the start.
I read this story on a rainy day and what better backdrop for a Gothic Horror? Grotesque Love was dark and moody, set on a foggy English estate that's filled with monsters and other horrors. Talk about getting the shivers.
Somehow Crystal North and Alice La Roux have mashed up Rapunzel with Bluebeard fairytale but with a feel of Jane Eyre. It was a trip, a little bit creepy, and hot as hell between Arianwen and her three gargoyles. Woo, those scenes were steamy, and surprisingly a lot of them but the plot was just as good. I could feel that something sinister was happening but what? What was the stepfather up to? But most of all, the question that plagued me for most of the book is, what is in the west wing? The big reveal had me gasping (like, holy cow) but I wasn't really surprised. It was the shock factor that got me.
I enjoyed everything about Grotesque Love, it was the moody read I didn't know I was looking for. After reading this I think I need to check out Alice's books and start reading more Crystal North.
I read this story on a rainy day and what better backdrop for a Gothic Horror? Grotesque Love was dark and moody, set on a foggy English estate that's filled with monsters and other horrors. Talk about getting the shivers.
Somehow Crystal North and Alice La Roux have mashed up Rapunzel with Bluebeard fairytale but with a feel of Jane Eyre. It was a trip, a little bit creepy, and hot as hell between Arianwen and her three gargoyles. Woo, those scenes were steamy, and surprisingly a lot of them but the plot was just as good. I could feel that something sinister was happening but what? What was the stepfather up to? But most of all, the question that plagued me for most of the book is, what is in the west wing? The big reveal had me gasping (like, holy cow) but I wasn't really surprised. It was the shock factor that got me.
I enjoyed everything about Grotesque Love, it was the moody read I didn't know I was looking for. After reading this I think I need to check out Alice's books and start reading more Crystal North.
June 30, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ari Brought to Clifton Manor by her step father, Carver, after her mother tragically passed away. Grief and sinister doings by Carver keep Ari in a constant drug induced stupor.
Sax, Jas and Mal
2 grotesques and a gargoyle
Part of the Clifton Curse
They have to watch all of this unfold as they can only break out of their stony prison state after dark. They do their best to keep watch on Ari during that time, it is agony that they cannot stop the atrocities happening to her during the day.
Finally Ari gets a break when Carver is called away on business. Once she stops taking her meds, everything is better. But is she really going crazy. The shadows move and she swears the gargoyle outside her bathroom is grinning at her.
I loved how easily Ari just melted into the love and affection of these three. Each one of them offered her a little bit to help her start healing. Jas is the sweet and passionate one, Mal is the hard and rough one, and Sax is the Daddy taking care and disciplining all of them. And daaammmm they know who to take care of their girl.
Pushing her limits and sending her to new highs.
The guys and Ari find the perfect HEA for them.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ari Brought to Clifton Manor by her step father, Carver, after her mother tragically passed away. Grief and sinister doings by Carver keep Ari in a constant drug induced stupor.
Sax, Jas and Mal
2 grotesques and a gargoyle
Part of the Clifton Curse
They have to watch all of this unfold as they can only break out of their stony prison state after dark. They do their best to keep watch on Ari during that time, it is agony that they cannot stop the atrocities happening to her during the day.
Finally Ari gets a break when Carver is called away on business. Once she stops taking her meds, everything is better. But is she really going crazy. The shadows move and she swears the gargoyle outside her bathroom is grinning at her.
I loved how easily Ari just melted into the love and affection of these three. Each one of them offered her a little bit to help her start healing. Jas is the sweet and passionate one, Mal is the hard and rough one, and Sax is the Daddy taking care and disciplining all of them. And daaammmm they know who to take care of their girl.
Pushing her limits and sending her to new highs.
The guys and Ari find the perfect HEA for them.
October 11, 2025
Concept is great. Story is good, but could be so much more.
**No Spoilers**
⭐⭐⭐.5 / 5
⭐: All in all, it's a good story. Just kinda feels that some things were either hyper focused on or not fleshed out enough...
🌶🌶🌶 / 5
🌶: Could have been more; especially with the sexual openness of the characters. *The concept/framework/potential for some top tier smexy times is there, but the Author's held themselves back.
Pros:
-The plot concept is great.
-Character development is well done.
-Thriller/creeper scenes, Brava.
-Full inclusion of all characters during smexy time, 👍
-I appreciate the Author's note forewarning the timeline being wonky as "intended".
Cons:
-The last 1/3 of the book contains editing errors. (First 2/3, nothing stood out.)
-You can feel that there is more than one driving force making this story move forward at different speeds.
......When I felt that a section was "droning" on, I skipped pages (yes, pages) looking for key words (Conversation, Smexy, movement i.e. walking/running, etc.) to let me know that the pace has picked back up.....
I did not backtrack and I finished the book satisfied, take that as you will.
🤜🤛💥 ✌
**No Spoilers**
⭐⭐⭐.5 / 5
⭐: All in all, it's a good story. Just kinda feels that some things were either hyper focused on or not fleshed out enough...
🌶🌶🌶 / 5
🌶: Could have been more; especially with the sexual openness of the characters. *The concept/framework/potential for some top tier smexy times is there, but the Author's held themselves back.
Pros:
-The plot concept is great.
-Character development is well done.
-Thriller/creeper scenes, Brava.
-Full inclusion of all characters during smexy time, 👍
-I appreciate the Author's note forewarning the timeline being wonky as "intended".
Cons:
-The last 1/3 of the book contains editing errors. (First 2/3, nothing stood out.)
-You can feel that there is more than one driving force making this story move forward at different speeds.
......When I felt that a section was "droning" on, I skipped pages (yes, pages) looking for key words (Conversation, Smexy, movement i.e. walking/running, etc.) to let me know that the pace has picked back up.....
I did not backtrack and I finished the book satisfied, take that as you will.
🤜🤛💥 ✌
June 23, 2024
The third book in the A Fairy Tales With A Monstrous Twist series.
Great book, slightly dark with some heavy subjects. Be sure to read the trigger warnings before you dive in.
Gargoyles, grotesques and a Rapunzel inspired fairy tale. Ari has been locked away by her evil stepfather, and taken advantage of since her mother died. Things take an unexpected turn when the monsters and tales of the manor comes to life.
Great story, with excellent characters. Loved how each of the guys were different from each other, with their own personalities. Which I find often lacking in stand alone why choose books. The confusion and memory loss Ari experienced were very well expressed. I loved how she gradually became more and more herself, and started to take charge of her life again.
The hot and steamy scenes were chef’s kiss 😘 loved them.
Overall great story where she got her life back in the end, and Carver got what he deserved.
Great book, slightly dark with some heavy subjects. Be sure to read the trigger warnings before you dive in.
Gargoyles, grotesques and a Rapunzel inspired fairy tale. Ari has been locked away by her evil stepfather, and taken advantage of since her mother died. Things take an unexpected turn when the monsters and tales of the manor comes to life.
Great story, with excellent characters. Loved how each of the guys were different from each other, with their own personalities. Which I find often lacking in stand alone why choose books. The confusion and memory loss Ari experienced were very well expressed. I loved how she gradually became more and more herself, and started to take charge of her life again.
The hot and steamy scenes were chef’s kiss 😘 loved them.
Overall great story where she got her life back in the end, and Carver got what he deserved.
July 7, 2024
This is a fairy tale retelling of Rapunzel. It is also a reverse harem where all the men are with each other as well as with Ari (the FMC). It is also part of the series "Fairy Tales with a Monstrous Twist." Which have all been great so far. Being a paranormal romance you get to dive into a world where gargoyles and grotesques are very real and have very real manly parts.😊! Lets just say they have some "monster peens"😋!
These characters all had me cheering them on and loving each of their individualities. You have a FMC who starts very broken and lost, and you watch her become a very strong woman that is willing to fight to survive and for the men she loves. With the men you get some of every type. "The daddy, the mischievous bad boy, and the tender kind soul." There is a character for everyone. You also come across so truly evil, vile charcters as well.
Check your TRIGGER WARNINGS please. Some parts get dark and may not be for you.
Plot. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice. 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
These characters all had me cheering them on and loving each of their individualities. You have a FMC who starts very broken and lost, and you watch her become a very strong woman that is willing to fight to survive and for the men she loves. With the men you get some of every type. "The daddy, the mischievous bad boy, and the tender kind soul." There is a character for everyone. You also come across so truly evil, vile charcters as well.
Check your TRIGGER WARNINGS please. Some parts get dark and may not be for you.
Plot. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice. 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
July 8, 2024
I’m loving this series of books from great authors. This one is a Rapunzel retelling and it’s definitely NOT tangled. The authors give a warning at the beginning that the story timing will feel off and that it’s deliberate. They did a great job with that! Really making the reader feel just as discombobulated as the FMC, you really get a feel for her lost time and feeling lost. I really loved how everything came together as the book went on. You were never quite sure what was going on in the background, and one you start to figure it out, all of the “red flags” become way more apparent and you get the aha moments. I really loved the MMCs as well, great group of personalities and I always love a “she’s ours” possessive attitude. The spice was just as great as the story! Great group scenes! I love why choose with mm and this did not disappoint!! I was fortunate enough to receive this book as an arc. This review is my own personal opinion.
June 26, 2024
Give me Rapunzel. but also give me gargoyles and grotesques. Give me a twisted fairy tale where the evil parent is a stepfather who needs be featured on an episode of Law and Order: SVU.
This is a twisted fairytale retelling of Rapunzel where her love interests are Gargoyles and Grotesques. Stone creatures that are literally stone statues during the day, keeping watch over Ari and the castle. Or rather the tower that she is forced to be kept in. The monsters are in love with her. They fell first. I seriously love that little micro trope. They fell fast and hard for this young lady locked up in a tower. Her stepfather forces medication on her, she is led to believe that she is sick and never getting any better. Deedee Blanchard anyone?
The monsters vow to rescue her. They plan to protect her and keep her safe. But the problem is, they can only come alive when the sun has set. The spice scenes were hot. I'm honestly loving all the books in this series!
This is a twisted fairytale retelling of Rapunzel where her love interests are Gargoyles and Grotesques. Stone creatures that are literally stone statues during the day, keeping watch over Ari and the castle. Or rather the tower that she is forced to be kept in. The monsters are in love with her. They fell first. I seriously love that little micro trope. They fell fast and hard for this young lady locked up in a tower. Her stepfather forces medication on her, she is led to believe that she is sick and never getting any better. Deedee Blanchard anyone?
The monsters vow to rescue her. They plan to protect her and keep her safe. But the problem is, they can only come alive when the sun has set. The spice scenes were hot. I'm honestly loving all the books in this series!
June 25, 2024
Grotesque Love is part of the multi author series Fairy Tale With A Monstrous Twist. I love fairytale retellings and this one was very interesting.
Ari is a Rapunzel type character. She has long flowing hair and is locked in a tower by her step-father, who has nefarious intentions. She is constantly drugged and when she meets the gargoyle and grotesques she thinks she is having a delusion. The revelation that she wasn't made her a stronger person. She was willing to fight for what she wanted and she wanted her men.
Each guy had a unique personality and interaction with Ari. Jas was the sweet one who really took time to take care of her. Sax was the leader and took a more protective role. Mal was a bit of a horn dog who was more aggressive with his wants and desires.
There were a lot of great spicy scenes. This was definitely a great read!
Ari is a Rapunzel type character. She has long flowing hair and is locked in a tower by her step-father, who has nefarious intentions. She is constantly drugged and when she meets the gargoyle and grotesques she thinks she is having a delusion. The revelation that she wasn't made her a stronger person. She was willing to fight for what she wanted and she wanted her men.
Each guy had a unique personality and interaction with Ari. Jas was the sweet one who really took time to take care of her. Sax was the leader and took a more protective role. Mal was a bit of a horn dog who was more aggressive with his wants and desires.
There were a lot of great spicy scenes. This was definitely a great read!
June 27, 2024
Grotesque Love is the third book in the Fairy Tales With A Monstrous Twist Series, which is a multi author shared series. It is a paranormal, why choose romance with m/m and triggers.
This book tells the story of Arianwen and her monsters. The relationship development is awesome and the steam between these four is HOT and includes knots, praise, ridges, tails, and more.
Arianwen literally broke my heart with everything she has, and is going through. She feels broken, and I can completely understand her feelings of despair. The emotion is palpable.
Jasper and Saxon are Grotesques and Mal is a Gargoyle. They stand guard over Ari, trying to protect her. The guys are cursed and Ari may be the only one capable of saving them, and in turn, they may be just what she needs to heal.
I really enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it.
This book tells the story of Arianwen and her monsters. The relationship development is awesome and the steam between these four is HOT and includes knots, praise, ridges, tails, and more.
Arianwen literally broke my heart with everything she has, and is going through. She feels broken, and I can completely understand her feelings of despair. The emotion is palpable.
Jasper and Saxon are Grotesques and Mal is a Gargoyle. They stand guard over Ari, trying to protect her. The guys are cursed and Ari may be the only one capable of saving them, and in turn, they may be just what she needs to heal.
I really enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it.
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