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Monster Bae #2
Howl You Doin?
An introverted chef. A hungry lycan shifter hiding among humans. A desire hotter than any kitchen ought to be.
When Whitley Whitt becomes the chef at Castle Tepesh, she wants nothing more than to get the funds to buy back her grandmother’s bakery and return to living her best life reading romance and baking cupcakes. But the castle gets creepier day by day, and she thinks Connor O’Doyle is the biggest bosshole to ever live.
Connor O’Doyle's greatest wish is to prove monsters and humans can coexist after turning Dracula’s home into a hotel.
As he juggles a castle filled with humans hosted by monsters, a yacht-stealing vampire best friend, and one chef who continuously tempts him with cupcakes and spite, he struggles to keep his identity secret.
When sparks and fangs fly, who will be the last wolf standing?
When Whitley Whitt becomes the chef at Castle Tepesh, she wants nothing more than to get the funds to buy back her grandmother’s bakery and return to living her best life reading romance and baking cupcakes. But the castle gets creepier day by day, and she thinks Connor O’Doyle is the biggest bosshole to ever live.
Connor O’Doyle's greatest wish is to prove monsters and humans can coexist after turning Dracula’s home into a hotel.
As he juggles a castle filled with humans hosted by monsters, a yacht-stealing vampire best friend, and one chef who continuously tempts him with cupcakes and spite, he struggles to keep his identity secret.
When sparks and fangs fly, who will be the last wolf standing?
Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2024
344 people are currently reading
1539 people want to read
About the author
Jacklyn Hyde
8 books314 followersHello!! My name is Jacklyn Hyde and I write books geared toward readers who like romcom paranormal vibes. I like piña coladas short walks to my car Also a huge fan of carbs and everything smut related. I have cookies and would love new friends ❤️
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
December 5, 2024
My new favorite werewolf book!
Whitley is so cute and Connor is the perfect kind of alphahole imo (no spoilers but I love him sm)
This is a phenomenal mix of (monster) romance and comedy. I’m really enjoying the underlying plot line and how just enough of it is unravelled in each book so far; the balance between the main couple and the intersecting story of the series as a whole keeps me constantly interested.
The spice is GOOOOOOOD in this one besties 🔥
This is just fast-paced enough the entire time—but not rushed—to never have me “pushing through” to the next exciting bit. Genuinely so well balanced! I can’t wait for book 3 even though this one’s not even out yet lol thank you to Jacklyn Hyde for allowing me to beta read this absolute treat <3
Whitley is so cute and Connor is the perfect kind of alphahole imo (no spoilers but I love him sm)
This is a phenomenal mix of (monster) romance and comedy. I’m really enjoying the underlying plot line and how just enough of it is unravelled in each book so far; the balance between the main couple and the intersecting story of the series as a whole keeps me constantly interested.
The spice is GOOOOOOOD in this one besties 🔥
This is just fast-paced enough the entire time—but not rushed—to never have me “pushing through” to the next exciting bit. Genuinely so well balanced! I can’t wait for book 3 even though this one’s not even out yet lol thank you to Jacklyn Hyde for allowing me to beta read this absolute treat <3
February 9, 2025
Finished book 2!!!! And I gotta say I really enjoyed this one to.it did take a little longer for them to fall and get together but it was worth it. We saw how much these two disliked each other for no real reason lol. About 30% of the book Conner was a douche to Whitley he never really said why until near when they were in a good place. So you get a lot of him being nice to everyone but her. When he’s started to be nice even whit was confused why he was being nice. But she flirted back and made cupcakes to annoy him lol. The friends with benefits was good. Plus we love a man who used toys :)
Beside that mess between them Conner was trying to make everything perfect since Vlad wasn’t at the Hotel. I kinda miss Vlad and his crankiness.
And we had some randomness about a hacker and Frank.. we know who the hacker is.. but poor Frank doesn’t and i love that someone got over him. Hopefully he isn’t a douche wish we got more stuff dealing with the hotel.
We also had a mini break up between Conner and Whit when he finds out someththing which was totally random in her family. I’m surprised annoyed with how he handled it. But oh well.
Safety- it was mentioned that Conner slept with 2 ppls a month before Whit came, also many monsters were flirting with Whit. Beside that nothing else.
No ow/tiny om (frank was flirting and another monster was flirting with FMC), no cheating, secondary character, drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-Yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
heat level-🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Prologue
Slowishburn
age gap
knotting
mentioned of Somnophila
primal play
tampering with BC
anal play
sex toys
praise kink
no condom
hea
epilogue
Beside that mess between them Conner was trying to make everything perfect since Vlad wasn’t at the Hotel. I kinda miss Vlad and his crankiness.
And we had some randomness about a hacker and Frank.. we know who the hacker is.. but poor Frank doesn’t and i love that someone got over him. Hopefully he isn’t a douche wish we got more stuff dealing with the hotel.
We also had a mini break up between Conner and Whit when he finds out someththing which was totally random in her family. I’m surprised annoyed with how he handled it. But oh well.
Safety- it was mentioned that Conner slept with 2 ppls a month before Whit came, also many monsters were flirting with Whit. Beside that nothing else.
No ow/tiny om (frank was flirting and another monster was flirting with FMC), no cheating, secondary character, drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-Yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
heat level-🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Prologue
Slowishburn
age gap
knotting
mentioned of Somnophila
primal play
tampering with BC
anal play
sex toys
praise kink
no condom
hea
epilogue
February 2, 2025
✨️ These types of books are such a guilty pleasure, and I'm too easy to please, haha. ✨️
📚 Synopsis:
Sequel in the Monster Bae romance series. Connor O'Doyle, the werewolf companion of Vlad (Dracula), gets his own happy ending. Werewolf romance, if you know you know.
💭 My Thoughts:
This book is definitely cheesy in that fun, millennial way. It’s super easy to follow and doesn’t try to be anything deep. It's a quick little read, like a guilty pleasure snack.
I really enjoy the characters. They’re not groundbreaking, but they’re fun, and I love the little twists on the classic monster archetypes. There’s a lot of banter and spice between them that kept me hooked. You can tell the author is having a good time, and that makes it easy for the reader to have a good time, too.
The plot is pretty predictable and straightforward, obviously. There was a small little sort of twist that I wasn't expecting, at least the way it played out. The story moves fast and doesn’t linger too long on anything, which I like. It’s definitely more about the vibe than anything else.
The castle is really fun, and I like how the author brought it to life. It’s not like this world building masterpiece, but the setting works perfectly for the book.
❤️ What I Loved:
I loved the silliness of the whole book, and I'm happy we are getting to continue the story with characters we already met. I feel like the author improved a lot from the first book, and the main complaints I had with the previous story were mostly fixed in this one.
💔 What I Didn't Love:
The plot is pretty predictable and doesn’t offer a lot of emotional depth or surprises, but honestly, that wasn’t a huge problem for me. It’s just a quick, light read, so I didn't go in expecting anything life changing.
📝 Final Thoughts:
Overall, this book is a fun, silly, quick read. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is exactly what makes it enjoyable. If you liked the first book, I think you’ll really like this one too. It’s perfect if you're in the mood for something light, spicy, and full of banter, nothing deep, just fun.
🔖 Recommend For:
You know exactly who you are and if you should read this book, lol. No recommendations are needed
📚 Synopsis:
Sequel in the Monster Bae romance series. Connor O'Doyle, the werewolf companion of Vlad (Dracula), gets his own happy ending. Werewolf romance, if you know you know.
💭 My Thoughts:
This book is definitely cheesy in that fun, millennial way. It’s super easy to follow and doesn’t try to be anything deep. It's a quick little read, like a guilty pleasure snack.
I really enjoy the characters. They’re not groundbreaking, but they’re fun, and I love the little twists on the classic monster archetypes. There’s a lot of banter and spice between them that kept me hooked. You can tell the author is having a good time, and that makes it easy for the reader to have a good time, too.
The plot is pretty predictable and straightforward, obviously. There was a small little sort of twist that I wasn't expecting, at least the way it played out. The story moves fast and doesn’t linger too long on anything, which I like. It’s definitely more about the vibe than anything else.
The castle is really fun, and I like how the author brought it to life. It’s not like this world building masterpiece, but the setting works perfectly for the book.
❤️ What I Loved:
I loved the silliness of the whole book, and I'm happy we are getting to continue the story with characters we already met. I feel like the author improved a lot from the first book, and the main complaints I had with the previous story were mostly fixed in this one.
💔 What I Didn't Love:
The plot is pretty predictable and doesn’t offer a lot of emotional depth or surprises, but honestly, that wasn’t a huge problem for me. It’s just a quick, light read, so I didn't go in expecting anything life changing.
📝 Final Thoughts:
Overall, this book is a fun, silly, quick read. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is exactly what makes it enjoyable. If you liked the first book, I think you’ll really like this one too. It’s perfect if you're in the mood for something light, spicy, and full of banter, nothing deep, just fun.
🔖 Recommend For:
You know exactly who you are and if you should read this book, lol. No recommendations are needed
December 8, 2024
My Review:
4.5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
Jacklyn Hyde serves up a sizzling, paranormal romcom that’s as spicy as a jalapeño cupcake—and just as addictive. Whitley Whitt, our introverted chef with a knack for sass and sweets, lands at Castle Tepesh to chase her bakery dreams but instead finds herself baking up sparks with Connor O’Doyle, the brooding lycan and king of “bossholery.” Their banter is sharper than Van Helsing’s stakes, packed with ‘90s nostalgia and enough heat to make even Dracula sweat.
Connor might be the alpha male, but Whitley is no beta female—she’s got a silver tongue and a secret that might make you howl. And speaking of howls, let’s just say Connor gives her more than a taste of his inner wolf—she’s not just moonlighting as a chef anymore.
The book doesn’t just focus on romance—it weaves in a compelling mystery involving hacked systems, hidden identities, and the unique challenges of running a hotel filled with both humans and paranormal creatures. Cameos from a colorful cast of monsters, including a yacht-stealing vampire, a mischievous pug (who knows all the secrets), and a Scottish nudist with Loch Ness vibes, add layers of hilarity and intrigue. And let’s not forget the witch who oozes Ursula-like menace, giving the story an edge of magical mischief. The book’s side characters keep the castle buzzing with chaos and comedy.
The chemistry between Connor and Whitley is hotter than a convection oven, with enough steam to make even your Kindle fog up. Between sizzling kisses and mysterious cupcake metaphors (is it the frosting or the bite that gets you?), you’ll be hooked. If you’re ready for a paranormal romance that’s part spicy bake-off, part monster mash, and entirely fang-tastic, this one will have you begging for seconds.
4.5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
Jacklyn Hyde serves up a sizzling, paranormal romcom that’s as spicy as a jalapeño cupcake—and just as addictive. Whitley Whitt, our introverted chef with a knack for sass and sweets, lands at Castle Tepesh to chase her bakery dreams but instead finds herself baking up sparks with Connor O’Doyle, the brooding lycan and king of “bossholery.” Their banter is sharper than Van Helsing’s stakes, packed with ‘90s nostalgia and enough heat to make even Dracula sweat.
Connor might be the alpha male, but Whitley is no beta female—she’s got a silver tongue and a secret that might make you howl. And speaking of howls, let’s just say Connor gives her more than a taste of his inner wolf—she’s not just moonlighting as a chef anymore.
The book doesn’t just focus on romance—it weaves in a compelling mystery involving hacked systems, hidden identities, and the unique challenges of running a hotel filled with both humans and paranormal creatures. Cameos from a colorful cast of monsters, including a yacht-stealing vampire, a mischievous pug (who knows all the secrets), and a Scottish nudist with Loch Ness vibes, add layers of hilarity and intrigue. And let’s not forget the witch who oozes Ursula-like menace, giving the story an edge of magical mischief. The book’s side characters keep the castle buzzing with chaos and comedy.
The chemistry between Connor and Whitley is hotter than a convection oven, with enough steam to make even your Kindle fog up. Between sizzling kisses and mysterious cupcake metaphors (is it the frosting or the bite that gets you?), you’ll be hooked. If you’re ready for a paranormal romance that’s part spicy bake-off, part monster mash, and entirely fang-tastic, this one will have you begging for seconds.
November 23, 2025
A very cozy, mindless, comforting, and fun read. Book one is still my favorite, but I’m definitely going to be reading the rest of the series.
This one is a romance set in Dracula’s castle between a Lycan / Shifter and a human chef, and is a hatred to lovers trope.
The only reason why I gave it a 4 instead of a 5 is because sometimes their conversations feel random, nonsensical, and disconnected. Like they weren’t planned out.
Also, I really don’t believe for a moment that a man who is over 300 years old would say things like “calm your tits” to his employee. I don’t think he would even know that phrase let alone be that immature. It pulled me out of the story.
It also got a bit chaotic towards the end. There were too many side characters popping up and then disappearing. Not everyone’s part was necessary.
Connor’s history and backstory never truly made sense. You never got a play by play of what happened. Or why he ended up at the castle.
We also never learned about the FMCs plans and how things changed. What’s the deal with her bakery now? Does she still have that dream? Is she getting a bonus? How is this going to work? Is she going to live in Romania half the year and New Orleans the other half running a business?? Why wasn’t there a conversation between either of them about the bakery?
The story wasn’t actually resolved even though it had a “happy ending.”
And why were there suddenly conversations being thrown around about kids out of no where? That also didn’t make sense for either of the characters. Especially when they didn’t individually want kids or have talks regarding their actual relationship. You should probably work on that first before thinking about kids.
Now that I think about it, they didn’t actually ever talk or get to know each other. They just had a lot of sex with various vibrators.
Now that I’m writing out my thoughts, I realize that there was a lot that didn’t make sense about this book 😂
But I still enjoyed it. I’m glad I finally read it. And I did get sucked in.
But I guess it’s a book you read more for the vibes. The romance and plot is not really planned out and written well.
It’s funny how I started out this review being so positive and now I’m like, damn I guess it wasn’t that good. 🤣
This one is a romance set in Dracula’s castle between a Lycan / Shifter and a human chef, and is a hatred to lovers trope.
The only reason why I gave it a 4 instead of a 5 is because sometimes their conversations feel random, nonsensical, and disconnected. Like they weren’t planned out.
Also, I really don’t believe for a moment that a man who is over 300 years old would say things like “calm your tits” to his employee. I don’t think he would even know that phrase let alone be that immature. It pulled me out of the story.
It also got a bit chaotic towards the end. There were too many side characters popping up and then disappearing. Not everyone’s part was necessary.
Connor’s history and backstory never truly made sense. You never got a play by play of what happened. Or why he ended up at the castle.
We also never learned about the FMCs plans and how things changed. What’s the deal with her bakery now? Does she still have that dream? Is she getting a bonus? How is this going to work? Is she going to live in Romania half the year and New Orleans the other half running a business?? Why wasn’t there a conversation between either of them about the bakery?
The story wasn’t actually resolved even though it had a “happy ending.”
And why were there suddenly conversations being thrown around about kids out of no where? That also didn’t make sense for either of the characters. Especially when they didn’t individually want kids or have talks regarding their actual relationship. You should probably work on that first before thinking about kids.
Now that I think about it, they didn’t actually ever talk or get to know each other. They just had a lot of sex with various vibrators.
Now that I’m writing out my thoughts, I realize that there was a lot that didn’t make sense about this book 😂
But I still enjoyed it. I’m glad I finally read it. And I did get sucked in.
But I guess it’s a book you read more for the vibes. The romance and plot is not really planned out and written well.
It’s funny how I started out this review being so positive and now I’m like, damn I guess it wasn’t that good. 🤣
December 15, 2024
Whitley and Conner are so dang cute. I love books that make me laugh, have spice, and give me a happy ever after. This book is all of that!
Whitley is the chef for the castle turned hotel. Things would be fine if her boss wasn't such a jerk to her. Conner can't seem to do anything but argue with Whitley. He said no more cupcakes, so she made a tiered cake instead. If only he could traverse the castle and not smell her everywhere. But then they come to a truce, and then something more.
This book had knotting, banter, family secrets, and plenty of spicy scenes. I'm living everything about this series so far.
Whitley is the chef for the castle turned hotel. Things would be fine if her boss wasn't such a jerk to her. Conner can't seem to do anything but argue with Whitley. He said no more cupcakes, so she made a tiered cake instead. If only he could traverse the castle and not smell her everywhere. But then they come to a truce, and then something more.
This book had knotting, banter, family secrets, and plenty of spicy scenes. I'm living everything about this series so far.
December 14, 2024
This was both super adorable and so freaking HOT!! I’ve been so excitedly waiting for Conner and Whitley’s story since finishing Your Coffin or Mine, and it was everything I needed!! Not enough books have toy play, and let me tell you, it was unbelievably hot in this one! Everything with this story was so much fun, the banter, the side characters, the primal play and knotting!!This book was exactly what I needed to pull me out of the book slump I could feel myself falling in to. I already can’t wait for the next one.
May 4, 2025
This was a fun read! I still enjoyed the first book in the series more. The constant fighting in the first 1/3 got annoying. But I did like it once they were together. The plot twist at the end was good, but I wish it was expanded more on.
December 16, 2024
— 3 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 361 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Jacklyn Hyde
⏳ 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡: Interconnected Standalone Series
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Independently Published
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 15 December 2024
What you can expect:
— Adult Paranormal Fantasy RomCom
— First Person X Dual POV
— Hate-To-Love
— Slow Burn Romance
— Hidden Identity
— Found Family
— Lycan MMC X Human FMC
— Angst & Grovelling
— Banter & Nickanmes
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: sexually explicit content, primal play, unexpected knotting, alcohol consumption and mentions of somnophilia.
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Howl You Doin? is the second instalment in the Monster Bae series by author Jacklyn Hyde. This book is perfect for those looking for banter-filled character interactions filled with witty dialogue meant to entice laugh-out-loud moments. I believe this is meant to be able to be read as a standalone however I do recommend reading the first book in the series, Your Coffin or Mine, in order to better understand the timeline of the story and the side character inclusions. The events of book one are mentioned which may work for some, however I personally think I would've struggled to understand some of the events within Howl You Doin? if I hadn't read the first book prior. The pacing struggled at times for me as I was hoping to see the plot progress at a rate faster than what was provided, and as a result I unfortunately feel like the development and expansion of the characters and their history was sacrificed as a result. I felt like the events of the book were relaxed and easy to follow before the stakes would immediately ramp up causing me to feel confused and having to swipe backwards to reread for clarification. I did enjoy Howl You Doin? overall as I had been very excited for our two main characters stories, however I must admit that I found the first book in the series to feel stronger and more cohesive overall.
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭:
The plot in Howl You Doin? was an ease to follow as we find ourselves joining two unlikely individuals on their explosive journey towards unexpected love. All Whitley Whitt has ever aspired to be is an owner to her own bakery where her passion and creativity can thrive without restrictions. Unfortunately for Whitley this requires money that she does not have... which is how she finds being employed as a chef in a creepy castle turned hotel which comes with a substantial bonus should she adhere to every aspect of her employment contract. Whitley needs that bonus if she's ever to secure herself a chance at securing her dream that seems more within reach with every passing day, but unfortunately for her the job also comes with an overbearing and grumpy boss who seems determined to make her job as difficult as possible. All Connor O’Doyle wants in life is for his best friend to stop existing as a corpse, and to make their home into the best hotel and tourist attraction it can possibly be. Only one of those two things proves to come easily to Connor, and suddenly he finds himself battling with a stubborn chef who refuses to adhere to his rules and seems to rejoice in taunting him every step of the way. As a lycan with his own complex history, existing amongst humankind without detection is the upmost importance and yet... is proving more difficult as Whitley brings his baser instincts to the forefront at any given opportunity. I was really excited by the early premise of this book, however I do find that the point of the plot felt simplistic which is not intended as a negative as it was easy to follow with the focus of this book seemingly to be on character interactions and relationship development. The main plot of the book seemed to be focused upon the party/gala that Connor wanted to host which created a low-stakes reading experience for me. It was fine, but honestly I just found myself not really interested or feeling invested as there wasn't much going on other than attempted matchmaking and our two main characters regularly finding themselves in a verbal sparring match. Even the internal investigation that we see occur seemed to fall flat and not really go anywhere as opposed to offer a compelling and exciting mystery to follow, however I suspect this will be reintroduced in the third book so I'm hopeful that it was only intended as hook for readers to feel intrigued by the next book. Overall Howl You Doin? was fun but unfortunately not particularly memorable or new for me, but I can definitely see the appeal for those looking for a low-stakes book with a focus on character dynamics and interaction.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Whitley Whitt was a fun character to follow who felt well explored and fleshed out when it comes to her characteristics and personality which are what drives her character arc forward. I enjoyed getting to know her aspirations as they are what largely acts as her motivations as a character towards her end-goal which helps make it easier to understand her better as a reader. Whitley is a fiercely driven and passionate woman who takes a lot of pride and care into the food that she provides. Unsurprisingly she better thrives when it comes to baked goods and sugary treats much to the delight of hotel guests... and to the dislike of her frowny bosswhole. Her determination and stubborn nature made her a fierce adversary for any who dared cross her, and overall it was a joy to be in her point-of-view throughout the story. Whitley's love for romance books added a fun dynamic that comes into play later in the story, and my only complaint is how little we learn about his life outside of the hotel. A few titbits of information is offered up but I personally hoped for a little more in order to better connect and relate to her character. Her dream of running her own bakery seems to be discarded after sudden events take place in the book that took me by surprise... because I genuinely think I was more shocked than Whitley herself when that plot point made its appearance. It just felt... thrown in there? Here I am thinking I'm reading a super fun spicy scene just for the entire thing to be derailed by a paranormal surprise that I didn't even fully register had happened until I felt really confused and had to flip a few pages backwards. It was a fun addition for sure... but I just don't think that moment was the best place for it to be introduced. The explanation for it also needed more of a detailed history for me to fully enjoy myself and feel immersed into the experience.
I am not ashamed to say that I truly did not particularly like Connor O’Doyle as a character until around the halfway mark of the story. He was nothing but a gentlemen to his staff and guests, and yet seemed to be the absolute worst version of himself around Whitley which just set a bad tone to his character for me. I appreciate that this is later explained in the book but it still did not excuse how horrible his attitude and regard for Whitley was. Connor was rude and dismissive whilst feeling adamant that he was always in the right which set a negative professional environment. He invaded her personal space and privacy with a ridiculous and self-entitled excuse that had my eyebrows raising which really cemented my dislike for him at that time. It was a shame too, because I was very excited for his story after reading the first book in the series and really enjoying his dynamics with Audrey and Vlad. Connor's character definitely showcases a substantial improvement later on in the story which was greatly needed, however this was executed at such a sudden rate that I genuinely felt emotional whiplash. I swear he just bounced up from bed one morning and just immediately decided that he was done being a horrible person? Suddenly his scowls and barking remarks are traded in for flirty winks and charming grins. It's no wonder poor Whitley was feeling so confused and mistrustful of his sudden personality. I did appreciate Connor's grovelling paired with self-reflection and recognition which made him an infinitely more likeable character, even if I do wish Whitley had made him grovel for longer than he did. I liked him a lot more by the end of the book, but unfortunately the last of consistency for his character and the feeling of rushed character development resulted in me personally not connecting with or enjoying Connor as a character. I honestly wish we'd been introduced to 'nice Connor' earlier in the story because it would've greatly impacted my overall reading experience and improved my opinion of his character by the end.
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
"Hate at first sight" is the easily the best way to summarise the beginning of Whitley and Connor's tumultuous and explosive tale which is first introduced in the first instalment of the series, Your Coffin or Mine. Neither Connor nor Whitley can seem to cease their endless bickering and taunting remarks which was funny to begin with... but when this is still continuing after the 30% mark it just began to feel tedious and repetitive. It felt like they were arguing just for the sake of arguing, especially when a great deal of their strife seemed to revolve around cupcakes and sugary delights? It felt far-fetched and this feeling didn't really disappear for me when the whole cupcake thing is later explained. The explanation in itself was a little ridiculous and cringey but ultimately Whitley and Connor's strength is found when they finally decide to communicate like adults. This is when the story and their characters really begin to shine for me and I can finally sense their compatibility and chemistry. Both Connor and Whitley have so much love and loyalty to provide for a partner and it was really sweet to see how doting and supportive they could be. I enjoyed how committed and devoted both characters were to the other, and how they seemed to finally prioritise communication (for the most part.) There was some really beautifully written and tender moments between the pair which had me swooning and excited for their future as a couple... which was obviously briefly thwarted by a brief third act miscommunication which lead to strife and arguments. That entire situation was really frustrating because after the amount of build-up and work that went into building Connor and Whitley into a couple, that disagreement felt like a major set-back that was flung in there as a final shock factor. I wish it hadn't happened the way it did and I didn't enjoy the way it was handled by all of the characters involved, but in the end Connor and Whitley talked it out and reconciled in the end. Their relationship seemed to have more downs than ups, but I can see the vision and I really enjoyed the moments of joy that they were granted individually and as a couple.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Howl You Doin? was a fun and easy read to immerse myself into filled with many laugh-out-loud moments and fun character interactions. Unfortunately it hasn't turned out to be my favourite of the series as I'd hoped due to reasonings that I have highlighted in my review above which was a shame as I greatly enjoyed the first book, however all of my thoughts are due to my own personal tastes and enjoyment. I still had a good time overall and recommend this book to anybody looking for an introduction to all things Paranormal Romance, werewolves/lycans and knotting. The open-door scenes were very well written and the there was plenty of funny and goofy materials to lose yourself into for a banter-filled experience.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 361 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Jacklyn Hyde
⏳ 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡: Interconnected Standalone Series
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Independently Published
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 15 December 2024
What you can expect:
— Adult Paranormal Fantasy RomCom
— First Person X Dual POV
— Hate-To-Love
— Slow Burn Romance
— Hidden Identity
— Found Family
— Lycan MMC X Human FMC
— Angst & Grovelling
— Banter & Nickanmes
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: sexually explicit content, primal play, unexpected knotting, alcohol consumption and mentions of somnophilia.
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Howl You Doin? is the second instalment in the Monster Bae series by author Jacklyn Hyde. This book is perfect for those looking for banter-filled character interactions filled with witty dialogue meant to entice laugh-out-loud moments. I believe this is meant to be able to be read as a standalone however I do recommend reading the first book in the series, Your Coffin or Mine, in order to better understand the timeline of the story and the side character inclusions. The events of book one are mentioned which may work for some, however I personally think I would've struggled to understand some of the events within Howl You Doin? if I hadn't read the first book prior. The pacing struggled at times for me as I was hoping to see the plot progress at a rate faster than what was provided, and as a result I unfortunately feel like the development and expansion of the characters and their history was sacrificed as a result. I felt like the events of the book were relaxed and easy to follow before the stakes would immediately ramp up causing me to feel confused and having to swipe backwards to reread for clarification. I did enjoy Howl You Doin? overall as I had been very excited for our two main characters stories, however I must admit that I found the first book in the series to feel stronger and more cohesive overall.
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭:
The plot in Howl You Doin? was an ease to follow as we find ourselves joining two unlikely individuals on their explosive journey towards unexpected love. All Whitley Whitt has ever aspired to be is an owner to her own bakery where her passion and creativity can thrive without restrictions. Unfortunately for Whitley this requires money that she does not have... which is how she finds being employed as a chef in a creepy castle turned hotel which comes with a substantial bonus should she adhere to every aspect of her employment contract. Whitley needs that bonus if she's ever to secure herself a chance at securing her dream that seems more within reach with every passing day, but unfortunately for her the job also comes with an overbearing and grumpy boss who seems determined to make her job as difficult as possible. All Connor O’Doyle wants in life is for his best friend to stop existing as a corpse, and to make their home into the best hotel and tourist attraction it can possibly be. Only one of those two things proves to come easily to Connor, and suddenly he finds himself battling with a stubborn chef who refuses to adhere to his rules and seems to rejoice in taunting him every step of the way. As a lycan with his own complex history, existing amongst humankind without detection is the upmost importance and yet... is proving more difficult as Whitley brings his baser instincts to the forefront at any given opportunity. I was really excited by the early premise of this book, however I do find that the point of the plot felt simplistic which is not intended as a negative as it was easy to follow with the focus of this book seemingly to be on character interactions and relationship development. The main plot of the book seemed to be focused upon the party/gala that Connor wanted to host which created a low-stakes reading experience for me. It was fine, but honestly I just found myself not really interested or feeling invested as there wasn't much going on other than attempted matchmaking and our two main characters regularly finding themselves in a verbal sparring match. Even the internal investigation that we see occur seemed to fall flat and not really go anywhere as opposed to offer a compelling and exciting mystery to follow, however I suspect this will be reintroduced in the third book so I'm hopeful that it was only intended as hook for readers to feel intrigued by the next book. Overall Howl You Doin? was fun but unfortunately not particularly memorable or new for me, but I can definitely see the appeal for those looking for a low-stakes book with a focus on character dynamics and interaction.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Whitley Whitt was a fun character to follow who felt well explored and fleshed out when it comes to her characteristics and personality which are what drives her character arc forward. I enjoyed getting to know her aspirations as they are what largely acts as her motivations as a character towards her end-goal which helps make it easier to understand her better as a reader. Whitley is a fiercely driven and passionate woman who takes a lot of pride and care into the food that she provides. Unsurprisingly she better thrives when it comes to baked goods and sugary treats much to the delight of hotel guests... and to the dislike of her frowny bosswhole. Her determination and stubborn nature made her a fierce adversary for any who dared cross her, and overall it was a joy to be in her point-of-view throughout the story. Whitley's love for romance books added a fun dynamic that comes into play later in the story, and my only complaint is how little we learn about his life outside of the hotel. A few titbits of information is offered up but I personally hoped for a little more in order to better connect and relate to her character. Her dream of running her own bakery seems to be discarded after sudden events take place in the book that took me by surprise... because I genuinely think I was more shocked than Whitley herself when that plot point made its appearance. It just felt... thrown in there? Here I am thinking I'm reading a super fun spicy scene just for the entire thing to be derailed by a paranormal surprise that I didn't even fully register had happened until I felt really confused and had to flip a few pages backwards. It was a fun addition for sure... but I just don't think that moment was the best place for it to be introduced. The explanation for it also needed more of a detailed history for me to fully enjoy myself and feel immersed into the experience.
I am not ashamed to say that I truly did not particularly like Connor O’Doyle as a character until around the halfway mark of the story. He was nothing but a gentlemen to his staff and guests, and yet seemed to be the absolute worst version of himself around Whitley which just set a bad tone to his character for me. I appreciate that this is later explained in the book but it still did not excuse how horrible his attitude and regard for Whitley was. Connor was rude and dismissive whilst feeling adamant that he was always in the right which set a negative professional environment. He invaded her personal space and privacy with a ridiculous and self-entitled excuse that had my eyebrows raising which really cemented my dislike for him at that time. It was a shame too, because I was very excited for his story after reading the first book in the series and really enjoying his dynamics with Audrey and Vlad. Connor's character definitely showcases a substantial improvement later on in the story which was greatly needed, however this was executed at such a sudden rate that I genuinely felt emotional whiplash. I swear he just bounced up from bed one morning and just immediately decided that he was done being a horrible person? Suddenly his scowls and barking remarks are traded in for flirty winks and charming grins. It's no wonder poor Whitley was feeling so confused and mistrustful of his sudden personality. I did appreciate Connor's grovelling paired with self-reflection and recognition which made him an infinitely more likeable character, even if I do wish Whitley had made him grovel for longer than he did. I liked him a lot more by the end of the book, but unfortunately the last of consistency for his character and the feeling of rushed character development resulted in me personally not connecting with or enjoying Connor as a character. I honestly wish we'd been introduced to 'nice Connor' earlier in the story because it would've greatly impacted my overall reading experience and improved my opinion of his character by the end.
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
"Hate at first sight" is the easily the best way to summarise the beginning of Whitley and Connor's tumultuous and explosive tale which is first introduced in the first instalment of the series, Your Coffin or Mine. Neither Connor nor Whitley can seem to cease their endless bickering and taunting remarks which was funny to begin with... but when this is still continuing after the 30% mark it just began to feel tedious and repetitive. It felt like they were arguing just for the sake of arguing, especially when a great deal of their strife seemed to revolve around cupcakes and sugary delights? It felt far-fetched and this feeling didn't really disappear for me when the whole cupcake thing is later explained. The explanation in itself was a little ridiculous and cringey but ultimately Whitley and Connor's strength is found when they finally decide to communicate like adults. This is when the story and their characters really begin to shine for me and I can finally sense their compatibility and chemistry. Both Connor and Whitley have so much love and loyalty to provide for a partner and it was really sweet to see how doting and supportive they could be. I enjoyed how committed and devoted both characters were to the other, and how they seemed to finally prioritise communication (for the most part.) There was some really beautifully written and tender moments between the pair which had me swooning and excited for their future as a couple... which was obviously briefly thwarted by a brief third act miscommunication which lead to strife and arguments. That entire situation was really frustrating because after the amount of build-up and work that went into building Connor and Whitley into a couple, that disagreement felt like a major set-back that was flung in there as a final shock factor. I wish it hadn't happened the way it did and I didn't enjoy the way it was handled by all of the characters involved, but in the end Connor and Whitley talked it out and reconciled in the end. Their relationship seemed to have more downs than ups, but I can see the vision and I really enjoyed the moments of joy that they were granted individually and as a couple.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Howl You Doin? was a fun and easy read to immerse myself into filled with many laugh-out-loud moments and fun character interactions. Unfortunately it hasn't turned out to be my favourite of the series as I'd hoped due to reasonings that I have highlighted in my review above which was a shame as I greatly enjoyed the first book, however all of my thoughts are due to my own personal tastes and enjoyment. I still had a good time overall and recommend this book to anybody looking for an introduction to all things Paranormal Romance, werewolves/lycans and knotting. The open-door scenes were very well written and the there was plenty of funny and goofy materials to lose yourself into for a banter-filled experience.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰.
December 22, 2024
I got this as an ARC and boy was it worth it. I loved the dynamics from the first book and I'm glad that some of that translated into this one. Connor and Whitley had such a cute ending and the enemies to lovers was a good change. I do wish we got a little bit more spice in the entire book but I enjoyed all of the steamy bits we did get. I am so excited to see what happens in Franks book!
December 24, 2024
A good second book in the series, but honestly it didn't quite meet my expectations.
40% of the book dealt with Connor and Whitley's unnecessary arguments and misunderstandings, which was already something we had experienced in book 1. Then the story picked up, with quite a bit of revelations, that frankly were truly surprising. We get to meet an array of characters, that all add their unique elements and twist to the main storyline. The dynamics between these characters was where the humour and craziness came in. The spice was well done, but the synergy that was Vlad and Aubrey remains unmatched.
40% of the book dealt with Connor and Whitley's unnecessary arguments and misunderstandings, which was already something we had experienced in book 1. Then the story picked up, with quite a bit of revelations, that frankly were truly surprising. We get to meet an array of characters, that all add their unique elements and twist to the main storyline. The dynamics between these characters was where the humour and craziness came in. The spice was well done, but the synergy that was Vlad and Aubrey remains unmatched.
February 12, 2025
I’m so disappointed. I loved the first one so much, but this one just couldn’t land the plane for me. I found myself wondering what I even saw in the first one? And then I figured it out. My absolute favorite thing was the banter between Vlad and Doyle, but for some reason, Vlad was MIA for almost this entire book. What was left was just not enough to get into. I was living for the scenes when Vlad would check in…and there weren’t many.
Doyle was just…a complete turd in this. SO so different from Your Coffin or Mine. I disliked so much of his character in this. Whitley never grew on me either. Throw them together and there wasn’t much to like. Their “hatred” didn’t even make sense. It was just annoying.
The plot was…what was it, honestly? I can barely remember anything that happened and I just finished the book!
The side characters are all either unmemorable or unlikable. Apparently Frank is the MMC in the next book and I honestly don’t know how I’m going to overcome my strong distaste for him. Odette was cruel and annoying. Maria was flighty, ditzy, and I know literally nothing about her. Lachlan was okay, but had two scenes, so again…not enough to make a dent in my displeasure.
There just wasn’t much to go on here. I really should have DNFed. I thought about it 10,000 times, but I decided to keep going for who knows why. This book took me FIVE DAYS to get through. Since I’m normally finishing a book in 1-2…that’s telling.
Anyway…may go on to the next book, but I probably won’t be excited about it. I’m hoping this was just a fluke.
Doyle was just…a complete turd in this. SO so different from Your Coffin or Mine. I disliked so much of his character in this. Whitley never grew on me either. Throw them together and there wasn’t much to like. Their “hatred” didn’t even make sense. It was just annoying.
The plot was…what was it, honestly? I can barely remember anything that happened and I just finished the book!
The side characters are all either unmemorable or unlikable. Apparently Frank is the MMC in the next book and I honestly don’t know how I’m going to overcome my strong distaste for him. Odette was cruel and annoying. Maria was flighty, ditzy, and I know literally nothing about her. Lachlan was okay, but had two scenes, so again…not enough to make a dent in my displeasure.
There just wasn’t much to go on here. I really should have DNFed. I thought about it 10,000 times, but I decided to keep going for who knows why. This book took me FIVE DAYS to get through. Since I’m normally finishing a book in 1-2…that’s telling.
Anyway…may go on to the next book, but I probably won’t be excited about it. I’m hoping this was just a fluke.
February 16, 2025
DNF. Really can’t get into a book where the dude actually actively hates the FMC and talks about her terribly including her ‘stench.’ Have read plenty of enemies to lovers, but this one just really rubbed me the wrong way
December 20, 2024
Mmmh no. This one was cringy which makes me sad bc the first one was cute 😩 I’ll probably read the next one if it’s Lachlan’s though as I am a sucker for a Scottish man.
December 23, 2024
This one was a miss for me. It was super repetitive, and I didn't particularly care for either of the main characters.
December 15, 2024
4.5⭐
3🌶️
Idiots in love..omg 😂
We meet Connor and Whitley in "Your Coffin or Mine" (Vlads Book) and it's hate at first sight.
Whitley just rubs Connor the wrong way from day one and she does so happily with a side of cupcakes.
Connor just annoys Whitley with his stick up ways and all the rules he seems to live by.
I had so much fun reading the progression of the relationship.
From dress fittings to Neck sniffing 😂 it was a fun ride.
I didn't know what to really expect going into book 2 but I was so very pleasantly surprised. The idiots/haters to lovers trope is strong with these two, honestly 😂
Plus we meet some new characters and get reacquainted with some familiar ones.
I thought we were in for the same formula ( Supernatural meets human, resists, than ultimately falls in love) that just works with paranormal romance but we had some twists and I gotta say I thoroughly enjoyed them.
I cannot wait to see who's next.
Sweet crazy baby Lachlan or Frank.N.Stein.
Who knows? But I'm looking forward to it 😉
P.S
"Drunk" Connor is my favorite.
3🌶️
Idiots in love..omg 😂
We meet Connor and Whitley in "Your Coffin or Mine" (Vlads Book) and it's hate at first sight.
Whitley just rubs Connor the wrong way from day one and she does so happily with a side of cupcakes.
Connor just annoys Whitley with his stick up ways and all the rules he seems to live by.
I had so much fun reading the progression of the relationship.
From dress fittings to Neck sniffing 😂 it was a fun ride.
I didn't know what to really expect going into book 2 but I was so very pleasantly surprised. The idiots/haters to lovers trope is strong with these two, honestly 😂
Plus we meet some new characters and get reacquainted with some familiar ones.
I thought we were in for the same formula ( Supernatural meets human, resists, than ultimately falls in love) that just works with paranormal romance but we had some twists and I gotta say I thoroughly enjoyed them.
I cannot wait to see who's next.
Sweet crazy baby Lachlan or Frank.N.Stein.
Who knows? But I'm looking forward to it 😉
P.S
"Drunk" Connor is my favorite.
January 9, 2025
Damned if I do, and damned if I don’t, but I think I’d rather choose sleep and cuddles. I have no fucks left to give, not when it could potentially be about the person I’ve been waiting centuries for.
This book was so unserious.
2.5/5 stars
4/5 spice (with some knottyness)
So I really loved the first one, I enjoyed the character growth from it and thought the spice was so well done. When going into this book my expectations were to be excited and have something fun to read. It definitely WAS fun and I did laugh at some of the quips that were involved.
I enjoyed the dynamic between the two MC's towards the middle of the book when things started moving. Whitley was a spitfire and didn't put up with his mood in the beginning. I am always skeptical when books are labeled as enemies/hate to lovers now because its such a common trop or type of story. It was okay, I thought Connor came in a little hot with some of his ass-hole-ness then the switch to lovers was a little quick for me.
Maybe its just me, truly, I'm not a fan of hate f*cking & thats what it felt like. I enjoyed the twist on the plot in the middle of the book. I wasn't expecting her change to happen and that was a nice different take on a shifter romance like this.
As ALWAYS I do think Jacklyn Hyde knows how to write spice. She is just willing to go there, and give the girlies what they want. There was some dialog throughout this that felt almost too modern for a werewolf thats hundreds of years old to use that it would take me out of the story a bit.
I thought the writing was slightly jumpy, there would be mentioning of things to cover up holes in the plot but then we wouldn't actually SEE the characters do what was mentioned. I could barely understand what Lochlan was saying due to how his accent was written
(and I'm only critical of this because I JUST read Under Loch and Key (also a book about a Loch Ness Monster named Lochlan) by Lana Ferguson and she did the Scottish accent so well... this one felt overdone)
I just think if you go into this having 'just give me something fun and smutty' expectations it will probably hit, but for me the writing was a little jumpy, the characters didn't have much deep backstory like book one did, and there was no antagonist.
This book was so unserious.
2.5/5 stars
4/5 spice (with some knottyness)
So I really loved the first one, I enjoyed the character growth from it and thought the spice was so well done. When going into this book my expectations were to be excited and have something fun to read. It definitely WAS fun and I did laugh at some of the quips that were involved.
I enjoyed the dynamic between the two MC's towards the middle of the book when things started moving. Whitley was a spitfire and didn't put up with his mood in the beginning. I am always skeptical when books are labeled as enemies/hate to lovers now because its such a common trop or type of story. It was okay, I thought Connor came in a little hot with some of his ass-hole-ness then the switch to lovers was a little quick for me.
Maybe its just me, truly, I'm not a fan of hate f*cking & thats what it felt like. I enjoyed the twist on the plot in the middle of the book. I wasn't expecting her change to happen and that was a nice different take on a shifter romance like this.
As ALWAYS I do think Jacklyn Hyde knows how to write spice. She is just willing to go there, and give the girlies what they want. There was some dialog throughout this that felt almost too modern for a werewolf thats hundreds of years old to use that it would take me out of the story a bit.
I thought the writing was slightly jumpy, there would be mentioning of things to cover up holes in the plot but then we wouldn't actually SEE the characters do what was mentioned. I could barely understand what Lochlan was saying due to how his accent was written
(and I'm only critical of this because I JUST read Under Loch and Key (also a book about a Loch Ness Monster named Lochlan) by Lana Ferguson and she did the Scottish accent so well... this one felt overdone)
I just think if you go into this having 'just give me something fun and smutty' expectations it will probably hit, but for me the writing was a little jumpy, the characters didn't have much deep backstory like book one did, and there was no antagonist.
December 18, 2024
FIRST ARC REVIEW!!!!
I kid you KNOT this book was better than the first! (pls don’t hate me)
Rating 4.5 stars & 🌶️🌶️
I always say a book is good when you go from hating to loving the characters the same way they do in the book. Conner and Whitley nearly drove me up the damn wall in the beginning but they were also doing that to each other (metaphorically and physically) soooo…. *shrugs*
This book was packed with tension, lust, love, comedy and over all agnst. I could not put it down and I’m truly sad it’s over. I would’ve given the book 5 stars if Frank hadn’t disappeared after being a heavy presence in the first half. I know there is another book coming but it felt like Frank was thrown in there for intimidation purposes and das it.
Otherwise, JH (Jacklyn Hyde) did an amazing job telling Conner and Whitney’s story, from describing the setting to meeting new friends and FINALLY getting O’Doyle Rules laid!
Howl’ You Doing is available on Amazon, be sure you buy it, read it, then buy Your Coffin or Mine and read that too!
I kid you KNOT this book was better than the first! (pls don’t hate me)
Rating 4.5 stars & 🌶️🌶️
I always say a book is good when you go from hating to loving the characters the same way they do in the book. Conner and Whitley nearly drove me up the damn wall in the beginning but they were also doing that to each other (metaphorically and physically) soooo…. *shrugs*
This book was packed with tension, lust, love, comedy and over all agnst. I could not put it down and I’m truly sad it’s over. I would’ve given the book 5 stars if Frank hadn’t disappeared after being a heavy presence in the first half. I know there is another book coming but it felt like Frank was thrown in there for intimidation purposes and das it.
Otherwise, JH (Jacklyn Hyde) did an amazing job telling Conner and Whitney’s story, from describing the setting to meeting new friends and FINALLY getting O’Doyle Rules laid!
Howl’ You Doing is available on Amazon, be sure you buy it, read it, then buy Your Coffin or Mine and read that too!
January 9, 2025
Another super fun one by Jacklyn Hyde! I loved this one just as much as I did the first one, even though I think it’s a little slower of a burn 😉 still fab, and I’ll always recommend it to friends and other readers!
December 15, 2024
OmG! Monster smut who knew??? lol I loved seeing more of the characters from the first book.
Wow just wow!
Extremely spicy!!!
Also giggled so much!
Wow just wow!
Extremely spicy!!!
Also giggled so much!
October 4, 2025
This one's maybe not quiiiiiite as charming as book 1 was.
It's just as kooky. Make no mistake. And I'd even say it's maybe a little hotter than book 1, once the spice gets going.
But this one didn't quite win me over as much as book 1 did. I know that only because I'm being less forgiving about things that irked me.
Maybe it's because Connor's only flirty move is to wink and he does it so often I began to wonder if it was some kind of tick. Maybe it's because the 'hatred' part of the story evaporates into thin air over the course of 1 singular conversation and I don't think it should have. A large part of the hilarity was Whitley and Connor's argumentative banter back and forth. But when 37% of the way through this story Connor randomly decides to stop being an asshole their conversations become rather tame, sort of repetitive, and almost entirely laced with a sexual undertone that was at first amusing, but eventually became just sort of irritating. Maybe it was the weird way the Loch Ness Monster almost spoke with a Scottish brogue - but it's written so awkward and bad it sailed right over funny into cringe territory.
Frank is also a much bigger character in this book - but all he really does is lurk around the castle, be vaguely threatening, and act as a cock-block between Whitley and Connor. I don't like the dude. And we're not meant to like him - but I know his book is coming, and I really don't know how anyone expects us to want to read about him finding his true mate and falling in love.
Outside of all of this - virtually nothing happens in this book. In book one we at least had the hotel's grand opening and a ball as a back up to the romantic plot. This book - 90% of it is just...regular day-to-day activities going on in the hotel. And even those are few and far in between.
I'm fine with making a book all about the romance. Really I am. But if you're gonna do that, don't bother wasting the page space dragging me through whole chapters of boring day-to-day activities that don't matter and add nothing to the story.
Some other things I wasn't crazy about - and these things are ultimately what cost this rating.
1. After Whitley and Connor first have sex, she begins to transform into a wolf-like creature. She flips out and flees, jumping out a window and landing in the moat where she (and we!) encounters Lachlan, the Loch Ness Monster. Whitley gets her crash-course in all things furry not from her lover, but from the fish-guy living in the moat. Shouldn't CONNOR have been the one to explain what she is and what she can do and the difference between what she became and what werewolves are? Why are we getting all this exposition from a character we've JUST met?
And when Connor does find her in Nessie's lair, she refuses to leave it, even when he begs her to come back to the castle so they can talk privately - but Whitley is suddenly more concerned about the fish man than she is about her current furry situation or her rocky relationship with Connor.
It was well and truly a strange situation. Especially considering once Connor finally manages to get her to leave with him, she never ONCE thinks about Lachlan again.
2. There's no real answer on what exactly Connor is. There's apparently a (subtle) difference between a Lycan and a Werewolf - but that doesn't exactly matter because Connor wasn't created the typical way and so he doesn't even really know WHAT he is. Only that everyone CALLS him a Lycan. 😒🙄 Like choices were made here... and they aren't good ones. I'm fine with the distinction between a shifter and a werewolf. It's asinine but fine, I could roll with it. But then to just not be clear on what Connor even was on top of that? And THEN, to tack on that Whitley is different even from Connor because she's somehow a "full-blooded" shifter. Because this Odette person shows up and proclaims it to be so? Give me a break.
3. The author spells Yzma from The Emperor's New Groove "Izma". C'mon, that was a 5 second google search away.
4. Odette is a weird character. She's a witch who apparently once "healed" Connor. Only her "potions" have diabolical consequences sometimes. I honestly didn't know what to make of her. She was mentioned in book one as a kind of villain. Connor is clearly unsettled by her, I'm pretty sure she cursed Nessie to live in a moat forever until he finds his mate...she turns Connor into a husky puppy....for some reason? And yet she's a "girls' girl" apparently and just wants to be besties with Whitley... Just...chaos.
5. The conversations revolve around the same topic over and over again which is basically "you're something different, we don't know how things are going to react once the mating bond takes hold." I got very tired of these people talking this topic to death. Especially when there wasn't any really new information, just more "well nobody knows" being thrown around.
6. The sex got gross. It's liquids and fluids all over the place. I just ended up skipping over it. Also, I was terrified we were going to end up somewhere in Furry territory and I was just not prepared for that - so yeah, skipped that, too. Fucking animals is where I draw the line. (Not that I have anything against Furries, let your freak flag fly! Just couldn't be me.)
7. The whole Van Helsing plot was more than a little odd. The ancestral relation on Whitley's part comes out of NOWHERE and feels made up 65% of the way through the book... like the author didn't know where things were going until that moment. Not to mention, when Connor learns about Whitley's family he kicks her out of the castle (or attempts to) even though she's his mate.
Shouldn't being someone's mate supersede fucked up family lineages? Especially considering 1. she knew nothing about any of this coming into this story and 2. he's waited 300 years to find his person? I dunno It all seemed sort of overly dramatic for no reason.
And especially after Connor learns about Whitley's past with men, he still abandons her, after professing his love and promising her he'll never leave her alone. Just knowing she's related to people who she's NEVER EVEN MET somehow makes her a loathsome horrible person he wants nothing to do with? Ehhhh. If I were Whitley, that would have been the end of that relationship permanently. You're not about to get mad at ME for something I couldn't control, then kick me out of not only the house, but also my JOB and still expect me to be okay with you being around me ever again.
I mean after he drops this on her: "I would rather cut my own arm off than touch you. You are literally what I hate most in this world, and I don't even want to look at you." Nah fuck that. Bro can rot.
8. Oh, and before I end this - remember how just up there, I mentioned Frank being in the castle and being a menace? Yeah well, that was apparently only for the first half of the book. Because, see, once Whitley and Connor start fucking, the dude magically disappears into the ether. As big a problem as he was for Aubrey and Vlad, and as much trouble as he could have been for Whitley and Connor, dude just disappears and Odette the Potentially Wicked Witch of the Weird shows up out of nowhere to cause problems that don't need exist.
Sigh, I dunno, guys. I think maybe I can only take ridiculous over-the-top silly stories like these in small doses. The beginning of this was kind of great. And then the couple got together and things really went off the rails for me. Book 1 was hilarious in a consistent and cohesive way. This one...it just felt like there was a monkey in a basement somewhere spinning a wheel to see what happened next, because some of the choices made in this one were downright unhinged, and not in a cute, quirky, funny way.
It's just as kooky. Make no mistake. And I'd even say it's maybe a little hotter than book 1, once the spice gets going.
But this one didn't quite win me over as much as book 1 did. I know that only because I'm being less forgiving about things that irked me.
Maybe it's because Connor's only flirty move is to wink and he does it so often I began to wonder if it was some kind of tick. Maybe it's because the 'hatred' part of the story evaporates into thin air over the course of 1 singular conversation and I don't think it should have. A large part of the hilarity was Whitley and Connor's argumentative banter back and forth. But when 37% of the way through this story Connor randomly decides to stop being an asshole their conversations become rather tame, sort of repetitive, and almost entirely laced with a sexual undertone that was at first amusing, but eventually became just sort of irritating. Maybe it was the weird way the Loch Ness Monster almost spoke with a Scottish brogue - but it's written so awkward and bad it sailed right over funny into cringe territory.
Frank is also a much bigger character in this book - but all he really does is lurk around the castle, be vaguely threatening, and act as a cock-block between Whitley and Connor. I don't like the dude. And we're not meant to like him - but I know his book is coming, and I really don't know how anyone expects us to want to read about him finding his true mate and falling in love.
Outside of all of this - virtually nothing happens in this book. In book one we at least had the hotel's grand opening and a ball as a back up to the romantic plot. This book - 90% of it is just...regular day-to-day activities going on in the hotel. And even those are few and far in between.
I'm fine with making a book all about the romance. Really I am. But if you're gonna do that, don't bother wasting the page space dragging me through whole chapters of boring day-to-day activities that don't matter and add nothing to the story.
Some other things I wasn't crazy about - and these things are ultimately what cost this rating.
1. After Whitley and Connor first have sex, she begins to transform into a wolf-like creature. She flips out and flees, jumping out a window and landing in the moat where she (and we!) encounters Lachlan, the Loch Ness Monster. Whitley gets her crash-course in all things furry not from her lover, but from the fish-guy living in the moat. Shouldn't CONNOR have been the one to explain what she is and what she can do and the difference between what she became and what werewolves are? Why are we getting all this exposition from a character we've JUST met?
And when Connor does find her in Nessie's lair, she refuses to leave it, even when he begs her to come back to the castle so they can talk privately - but Whitley is suddenly more concerned about the fish man than she is about her current furry situation or her rocky relationship with Connor.
It was well and truly a strange situation. Especially considering once Connor finally manages to get her to leave with him, she never ONCE thinks about Lachlan again.
2. There's no real answer on what exactly Connor is. There's apparently a (subtle) difference between a Lycan and a Werewolf - but that doesn't exactly matter because Connor wasn't created the typical way and so he doesn't even really know WHAT he is. Only that everyone CALLS him a Lycan. 😒🙄 Like choices were made here... and they aren't good ones. I'm fine with the distinction between a shifter and a werewolf. It's asinine but fine, I could roll with it. But then to just not be clear on what Connor even was on top of that? And THEN, to tack on that Whitley is different even from Connor because she's somehow a "full-blooded" shifter. Because this Odette person shows up and proclaims it to be so? Give me a break.
3. The author spells Yzma from The Emperor's New Groove "Izma". C'mon, that was a 5 second google search away.
4. Odette is a weird character. She's a witch who apparently once "healed" Connor. Only her "potions" have diabolical consequences sometimes. I honestly didn't know what to make of her. She was mentioned in book one as a kind of villain. Connor is clearly unsettled by her, I'm pretty sure she cursed Nessie to live in a moat forever until he finds his mate...she turns Connor into a husky puppy....for some reason? And yet she's a "girls' girl" apparently and just wants to be besties with Whitley... Just...chaos.
5. The conversations revolve around the same topic over and over again which is basically "you're something different, we don't know how things are going to react once the mating bond takes hold." I got very tired of these people talking this topic to death. Especially when there wasn't any really new information, just more "well nobody knows" being thrown around.
6. The sex got gross. It's liquids and fluids all over the place. I just ended up skipping over it. Also, I was terrified we were going to end up somewhere in Furry territory and I was just not prepared for that - so yeah, skipped that, too. Fucking animals is where I draw the line. (Not that I have anything against Furries, let your freak flag fly! Just couldn't be me.)
7. The whole Van Helsing plot was more than a little odd. The ancestral relation on Whitley's part comes out of NOWHERE and feels made up 65% of the way through the book... like the author didn't know where things were going until that moment. Not to mention, when Connor learns about Whitley's family he kicks her out of the castle (or attempts to) even though she's his mate.
Shouldn't being someone's mate supersede fucked up family lineages? Especially considering 1. she knew nothing about any of this coming into this story and 2. he's waited 300 years to find his person? I dunno It all seemed sort of overly dramatic for no reason.
And especially after Connor learns about Whitley's past with men, he still abandons her, after professing his love and promising her he'll never leave her alone. Just knowing she's related to people who she's NEVER EVEN MET somehow makes her a loathsome horrible person he wants nothing to do with? Ehhhh. If I were Whitley, that would have been the end of that relationship permanently. You're not about to get mad at ME for something I couldn't control, then kick me out of not only the house, but also my JOB and still expect me to be okay with you being around me ever again.
I mean after he drops this on her: "I would rather cut my own arm off than touch you. You are literally what I hate most in this world, and I don't even want to look at you." Nah fuck that. Bro can rot.
8. Oh, and before I end this - remember how just up there, I mentioned Frank being in the castle and being a menace? Yeah well, that was apparently only for the first half of the book. Because, see, once Whitley and Connor start fucking, the dude magically disappears into the ether. As big a problem as he was for Aubrey and Vlad, and as much trouble as he could have been for Whitley and Connor, dude just disappears and Odette the Potentially Wicked Witch of the Weird shows up out of nowhere to cause problems that don't need exist.
Sigh, I dunno, guys. I think maybe I can only take ridiculous over-the-top silly stories like these in small doses. The beginning of this was kind of great. And then the couple got together and things really went off the rails for me. Book 1 was hilarious in a consistent and cohesive way. This one...it just felt like there was a monkey in a basement somewhere spinning a wheel to see what happened next, because some of the choices made in this one were downright unhinged, and not in a cute, quirky, funny way.
October 4, 2025
This was pretty much what I expected after reading the first book in the series. It's cheesy and full of tropes. The plot is pretty light and all the conflicts are easily resolved. The smut is... weird. 😂 But this is my first wolf-shifter romance, so maybe it's just me. The writing itself comes across as amateur and repetitive.
Was it good? Meh.
Did I giggle? Definitely.
Was it good? Meh.
Did I giggle? Definitely.
December 15, 2024
Such a cute continuation of the series. I loved the enemies to lovers plot and there were twists I did knot see coming. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
December 16, 2024
I received an ARC in return for an honest judgement
Plot:3.75/5
Spice 4/5
This book has knotting, primal play, bosshole turned sweetie pie, sugar spice and everything nice.
This story follows the life of (sort of) Lycan Werewolf Connor, and executive hotel chef Whitley.
I am surprised to say this but I wanted more angst than spice?!? Like it was *punches you in the face* surprise, then less than a chapter later it was resolved, then another *kick to my bollocks* then it was resolved less than two pages later. I usually never want that, I want diet-angst straight spice. But I wanted more angst, more anger. Like the spice was great don't get me wrong, but I wanted more fighting. But to be a hypocrite Connor is like 300 years old, if he just stopped for a moment and thought it would have solved problems.
I'm giving this a four (my rating is truly a 3.75) because I have tons of questions and not enough answers. Like what happens when Whitley goes back to NOLA to create her bakery, which is her dream? And what about Frank? More questions than answers in this book, but that's okay we've got one more (which is hopefully Lochlan's book?!)
I'm not sure they're true mates. I think Connor will get mad when Whitley's 3 months are up and wants to go back to her dream bakery (which like yeah he got it for her, so maybe he'll follow her, but would he really leave Vlad).
To end Whitley is a boss bitch and truly handled everything much better than what I could have, and I read the same spicy omegaverse books as her.
Plot:3.75/5
Spice 4/5
This book has knotting, primal play, bosshole turned sweetie pie, sugar spice and everything nice.
This story follows the life of (sort of) Lycan Werewolf Connor, and executive hotel chef Whitley.
I am surprised to say this but I wanted more angst than spice?!? Like it was *punches you in the face* surprise, then less than a chapter later it was resolved, then another *kick to my bollocks* then it was resolved less than two pages later. I usually never want that, I want diet-angst straight spice. But I wanted more angst, more anger. Like the spice was great don't get me wrong, but I wanted more fighting. But to be a hypocrite Connor is like 300 years old, if he just stopped for a moment and thought it would have solved problems.
I'm giving this a four (my rating is truly a 3.75) because I have tons of questions and not enough answers. Like what happens when Whitley goes back to NOLA to create her bakery, which is her dream? And what about Frank? More questions than answers in this book, but that's okay we've got one more (which is hopefully Lochlan's book?!)
I'm not sure they're true mates. I think Connor will get mad when Whitley's 3 months are up and wants to go back to her dream bakery (which like yeah he got it for her, so maybe he'll follow her, but would he really leave Vlad).
To end Whitley is a boss bitch and truly handled everything much better than what I could have, and I read the same spicy omegaverse books as her.
December 16, 2024
I love love loved Your Coffin or Mine. So honestly I knew I would love this one just as much. I gel with the writing style, I love the Hotel Transylvania vibes, and I’m now confused by whether I’d like Allans face in real life? 😂
Whitley and Connor were such a different couple to Vlad and Aubrey but I am so here for them. They have a few discoveries along the way, more than a few revelations to deal with. A real enemies to lovers. They hate each other but they’re unsure why. They can appreciate how attractive they find each other whilst remembering they are definitely not pals. This makes their banter absolutely top tier, the zingers they shot each other, phew, it’s no wonder they’re explosive together.
Exhibit A:
“Is she okay? Why am I the one being accused of foul play? It’s not like I’ve murdered her and buried her corpse—yet—but the thought has crossed my mind”
- Connor
“Compelling blue eyes, dark slashing brows, firm sensual lips, and a six-foot frame that would be made for me to climb, if the guy wasn’t the most arrogant asshole I’ve ever met.”
- Whitley
There’s jealousy, there’s an abundance of cinnamon rolls, there’s intrigue and breadcrumbs to pick up along the way. I laughed out loud more than a few times, my heart squeezed with super sweet moments, gasped at others and loved how big events were worked through. It was pure enjoyment. I dunno what to tell ya, it’s great and I cannot wait for book 3!
Whitley and Connor were such a different couple to Vlad and Aubrey but I am so here for them. They have a few discoveries along the way, more than a few revelations to deal with. A real enemies to lovers. They hate each other but they’re unsure why. They can appreciate how attractive they find each other whilst remembering they are definitely not pals. This makes their banter absolutely top tier, the zingers they shot each other, phew, it’s no wonder they’re explosive together.
Exhibit A:
“Is she okay? Why am I the one being accused of foul play? It’s not like I’ve murdered her and buried her corpse—yet—but the thought has crossed my mind”
- Connor
“Compelling blue eyes, dark slashing brows, firm sensual lips, and a six-foot frame that would be made for me to climb, if the guy wasn’t the most arrogant asshole I’ve ever met.”
- Whitley
There’s jealousy, there’s an abundance of cinnamon rolls, there’s intrigue and breadcrumbs to pick up along the way. I laughed out loud more than a few times, my heart squeezed with super sweet moments, gasped at others and loved how big events were worked through. It was pure enjoyment. I dunno what to tell ya, it’s great and I cannot wait for book 3!
December 16, 2024
I received an ARC but all thoughts are my own.
I loved the first book in the series and was very exited to see that Connor and Whitley were going to be the next couple. I love how they have a push and pull relationship. Whitley takes no crap from Connor and you love to see it! Jacklyn does a really great job of balancing the spice with the story. I love that she added some clues for the next book but the focus was still on the current couple. There were a few twists and turns that kept the story refreshing and different. The humor was spot on as well. A few parts had me cackling for sure. There was some angst but nothing too wild.
I looooooved that Connor saw toys as friends, and not foes. The dinner serving scene was beyond hot. There was a little primal play too if that's your thing.
I loved that we got to learn a little more about Lachlan and Frank too. I can't wait to see who ends up paired with Frank. Whoever it is, they'll have to be a bad ass for sure. I'm very curious about the hacker story line with his company and can't wait to see how that unfolds.
I do think you can read this book as a standalone. I've read the previous book as I mentioned before, but wouldn't have felt lost or left out if I just jumped into this one.
I loved the first book in the series and was very exited to see that Connor and Whitley were going to be the next couple. I love how they have a push and pull relationship. Whitley takes no crap from Connor and you love to see it! Jacklyn does a really great job of balancing the spice with the story. I love that she added some clues for the next book but the focus was still on the current couple. There were a few twists and turns that kept the story refreshing and different. The humor was spot on as well. A few parts had me cackling for sure. There was some angst but nothing too wild.
I looooooved that Connor saw toys as friends, and not foes. The dinner serving scene was beyond hot. There was a little primal play too if that's your thing.
I loved that we got to learn a little more about Lachlan and Frank too. I can't wait to see who ends up paired with Frank. Whoever it is, they'll have to be a bad ass for sure. I'm very curious about the hacker story line with his company and can't wait to see how that unfolds.
I do think you can read this book as a standalone. I've read the previous book as I mentioned before, but wouldn't have felt lost or left out if I just jumped into this one.
November 26, 2025
3.5 stars — kitchen heat, cupcake-fueled tension, and an uptight lycan trying to hold onto his last two nerves.
Book two leans even harder into the grown-up Hotel Transylvania energy, and I was very much here for it. It’s still quick and chaotic, but this time the spotlight is on Whitley — an introverted chef whose only crimes are wanting quiet, cupcakes, and her dream bakery back.
Instead, she ends up cooking in a castle run by literal monsters. Not a metaphor. Actual monsters.
Connor O’Doyle is a lycan pretending to be human, trying to turn Dracula’s castle into a functioning hotel without outing every supernatural he knows. He’s also a bossy, broody, giant wolf man who cannot cope with Whitley’s combination of competence and spite.
Their chemistry is pure enemies-to-hungry-lovers energy:
• She weaponizes cupcakes.
• He tries not to fantasize about mauling her (in the good way).
• They both fail spectacularly.
Connor’s internal monologues are unhinged in the funniest way — he’s doing mental gymnastics trying not to slip and bare a fang while Whitley is just trying to sauté something without dying.
It’s fast, it’s spicy, it’s irreverent, and it refuses to take itself seriously for even one second. Another perfect slump-buster.
Book two leans even harder into the grown-up Hotel Transylvania energy, and I was very much here for it. It’s still quick and chaotic, but this time the spotlight is on Whitley — an introverted chef whose only crimes are wanting quiet, cupcakes, and her dream bakery back.
Instead, she ends up cooking in a castle run by literal monsters. Not a metaphor. Actual monsters.
Connor O’Doyle is a lycan pretending to be human, trying to turn Dracula’s castle into a functioning hotel without outing every supernatural he knows. He’s also a bossy, broody, giant wolf man who cannot cope with Whitley’s combination of competence and spite.
Their chemistry is pure enemies-to-hungry-lovers energy:
• She weaponizes cupcakes.
• He tries not to fantasize about mauling her (in the good way).
• They both fail spectacularly.
Connor’s internal monologues are unhinged in the funniest way — he’s doing mental gymnastics trying not to slip and bare a fang while Whitley is just trying to sauté something without dying.
It’s fast, it’s spicy, it’s irreverent, and it refuses to take itself seriously for even one second. Another perfect slump-buster.
January 13, 2025
This book was good, even if there were bits and pieces I didn’t love.
I really love Whitley she’s a very cute character.
Connor is infuriating but loveable.
This book was magical, fun, and easy to read. I also loved the nods to beauty and the beast and their unhinged feud at the beginning of the book.
I did, however, feel that the pacing of this book was a little off, and that some of the plot wasn’t clear.
And majority of the conflict stems from miscommunication which is a bit frustrating at times…
that being said, I’m looking forward to the next one which I hope will be about Lachlan, who I absolutely adored - im very excited for his moment in the sun.
🌶️ - 3/5
I really love Whitley she’s a very cute character.
Connor is infuriating but loveable.
This book was magical, fun, and easy to read. I also loved the nods to beauty and the beast and their unhinged feud at the beginning of the book.
I did, however, feel that the pacing of this book was a little off, and that some of the plot wasn’t clear.
And majority of the conflict stems from miscommunication which is a bit frustrating at times…
that being said, I’m looking forward to the next one which I hope will be about Lachlan, who I absolutely adored - im very excited for his moment in the sun.
🌶️ - 3/5
April 9, 2025
I LOVED Whitley’s character!! She was so FUNNY AND HILARIOUS!!! 🤣 I loved the banter between her and Connor it was definitely comical especially with the cupcakes that had me laughing so much!!
I loved Connor’s character too!! I definitely enjoyed both of their stories!!
Also this book is pretty SPICY!! 🥵 I was like DANG THAT’S HOT!!
Also Lachlan was a great edition I know they mentioned him a little bit in book one but I truly hope for a book for his character and Jeykell’s character!! I’d love to know more about each of them!!
I honestly thought I wouldn’t like it but once I got to probably about 45% i definitely started devouring this book! I know it took me 2 months to read but I was buddy reading this and I was in and out of a horrible book slump!!
I loved Connor’s character too!! I definitely enjoyed both of their stories!!
Also this book is pretty SPICY!! 🥵 I was like DANG THAT’S HOT!!
Also Lachlan was a great edition I know they mentioned him a little bit in book one but I truly hope for a book for his character and Jeykell’s character!! I’d love to know more about each of them!!
I honestly thought I wouldn’t like it but once I got to probably about 45% i definitely started devouring this book! I know it took me 2 months to read but I was buddy reading this and I was in and out of a horrible book slump!!
January 1, 2025
This second installment of the Monster Bae series is just as amazing and hilarious as the first, with an extra large helping of spice. Our main characters are amazingly lovable and their banter, and often outward distain toward one another, is as hilarious as it is a driving force steering us directly into pound town. You could literally cut the smexy tension in this book with a knife, and it would probably have to be a sharp one, cause it's thicc.
This is by far one of my favourite series and Jacklyn is a new favourite author. I already can't wait to see what she does next.
This is by far one of my favourite series and Jacklyn is a new favourite author. I already can't wait to see what she does next.
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