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The Sanctuary #2

The Jorogumo

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Two fated mates bond over their mutual love of comic books, but when one of them discovers his new friend isn't quite human, will their friendship end or turn into something more?

Haruto

My first visit to the human realm in decades was... memorable. I visited a comic book store, and made a new friend. Liam was just as geeky as me, and while he might seem scary to humans, all I saw were his sweet smiles and kind gestures.

Discovering he was my mate was a surprise, but when Liam didn't react the way I expected when I accidentally revealed I was a jorogumo, hope unfurled. Maybe he would be the one to accept me exactly as I was.

Liam

As a comic book geek and lover of fiction, I was excited when Haruto revealed a world of magic to me. Visiting the Sanctuary felt like a dream come true, but more than anything, being with Haruto was what truly felt like a dream.

Haruto was sweet, kind, and so very good to me. He took care of me the way I'd always hoped someone would, and it didn't hurt that he was so much stronger than me. Falling in love with him wouldn't be a hardship at all.

The Jorogumo is a 58k words MM paranormal romance featuring an asexual jorogumo who loves taking care of his partner, a big, strong human with a gentle heart, and a community of supernatural beings living in a safe haven called The Sanctuary. It's the second book in The Sanctuary series, and can be read as a standalone.

Note: While one of the MCs does have spider legs and the ability to weave spiderwebs, he does not have a full spider form.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 20, 2025

43 people are currently reading
34 people want to read

About the author

Stella Rainbow

55 books273 followers
Stella Rainbow is the pen name of a twenty something woman from India. Her heart is too full of rainbow colored stories to be limited by the lack of awareness in her home country.

Stella spends her days cuddling up with her cat, typing out new stories, daydreaming and reading all the books she can get her hands on.

She loves talking to her readers and other book lovers, so don't hesitate in contacting her on any of her socials or emailing her at authorstellarainbow@gmail.com

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5 stars
105 (53%)
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58 (29%)
3 stars
29 (14%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Xiomara.
183 reviews
March 23, 2025
4 stars

This is the second story in a series I think, even though this is supposed to be standalone. If you want you can read the first story even though is not necessarily. If only to get acquainted with the side characters they get mentioned through the whole book. It was an enjoyable story and a fun read. The main characters are so cute and so in love with each other. I can’t wait to read the next one coming out.
Profile Image for Eileen.
764 reviews30 followers
March 20, 2025
I liked this one, especially Liam and Haruto were so sweet and I love the comic topic, but I missed a plot, also Liam's fears and insecurities could have been dealt with more, especially his parents and the body-shaming on their side.
And we don't need to talk about the end. I don't like kitsch - a too perfect ending with marriage and everything... 😅🙈

A little plot and darkness can make the good, the bright, the love shine even more. My two cents to this topic... 😅🤗🙃
Nevertheless, I can't wait to read about Diego and Shade 🥰🤗
Profile Image for Kate.
2,570 reviews6 followers
March 20, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********

I really enjoyed this book which isn’t surprising as I’ve basically read all of Stella’s books release to date and have thoroughly enjoyed them all. I also thought that it was another good addition to The Sanctuary Forest Series. I absolutely hate spiders but I still decided to give this a go since I not only have complete faith in but it’s fiction and Haruto doesn’t have a full spider form. I thought that Haruto and Liam were cute together and I loved how their relationship progressed, as they became friends first and then Haruto finally realised that they’re mates when he can feel Liam’s desire for and he’s not uncomfortable and wants to actually feed off it. Haruto falls somewhere on the ace spectrum so anyone desiring him usually makes him very uncomfortable. Liam is pansexual.

Both of them have an absolute love for comics and that’s how they met since Liam is the manager at local comic store. Liam was so understanding about Haruto’s boundaries and making sure that he doesn’t cross them and Haruto loved taking care of Liam in all ways. Liam loves how strong Haruto is and his care makes him feel so special, as due to his size people make assumptions about him and put him in a box. He’s a total marshmallow though. Haruto sure has some interesting uses for his webs. I loved getting to see more of the unique supernaturals that call the Sanctuary home, and I’m looking forward to getting some of their stories as the series continues, as well as more books from Stella Rainbow in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series, universe and author to everyone.

******I received a copy of this book because I’m a member of the authors Patreon. I happily reviewed this book and I would do so even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
Profile Image for TJ.
240 reviews
March 29, 2025
I remembered him saying he found Spider-Man relatable, but I'd never thought this was what he'd meant. - Liam


Notable Tropes/Tags/Themes/etc.:
Fated Mates, Fluffy, Found Family, Strangers-to-Friends-to-Lovers, Homophobia (minor scene), Hurt-Comfort, MM Romance, Asexual MC, Paranormal, Sweet, Self Image Issues

My Opinion:
Haruto and Liam feel a strong draw to each other after meeting in the comic book store. Like Fate always does, they brought two individuals together into a perfect fit. Haruto wants to please and care for Liam, let him know how loved he is. Liam accepts Haruto for everything he is and his boundaries. This is a super sweet read. There is no angst (but I wanna know what's going on with the headmaster and the glitches) and is just a beautiful story of two souls becoming one. We get a nice conversation with Shade, sole resident of the Darkness, as well as Liam’s friend, Diego. Who . The next story, Shade, The Sanctuary 2.5, is set to be released later this year and is about Shade and . Stella has the blurb for the book on her website as well as the timeline of her book universe!

Main Character Information:
Liam: Human, Manager of Sanctum for Geeks, 6’1”, tough features, teddy bear, pansexual
Haruto: Jorogumo, approx 105, deep brown eyes, brown hair, asian descent, asexual

Intimate & Spicy Moments Include:


Possesses:
1st Person, Dual POV
3rd Act Break Up: No
Slow-burn: No
HEA: Yes
MC Sex w/o Other MC(s): No

Ratings:
Spice: 2/5
Angst/Stress: 0/5
Fluff: 3.5/5
Structure/Format/Flow: 5/5
Overall: 5/5

Side Characters:
Dustin:
Draven:
Khush:
Silas:
Zamir:
Shade:
Touya:
Diego:
Zephyr:
Bellamy:
Jacinta:
Keoni:
Alaric:
Nolan:
Ea & Nu:
Mira:

Meeting Liam was the greatest thing that ever happened to me. Not only did I find my mate in him, but I also found my best friend. - Haruto


It can be safely assumed all of my reviews are from books that are 1st Person, have a HEA, and have no intimate or spicy scenes with anyone/thing other than MC(s). I try to rate books objectively if they have something I don’t typically like (i.e. Break Ups, SA, 3rd Person, Single POV, Sharing Partners). If it’s still written well the author deserves the praise but I will make note to avoid for myself in the future. I do my best to mark different triggers/warnings as well as the intimate acts performed in case anything listed/done might not be something you would want to read. If M/M, Age Play, Interspecies, Insta Love, Erotica, MPreg, or Incest are something you actively avoid, you are probably better off avoiding most of the books I review.

DNF: Something off, couldn’t finish because of it.
1 Star: No, thanks. Something super wrong.
2 Stars: Oh that was something but it was not something for me.
3 Stars: Decent, some things didn’t sit or read right but it was worth the effort.
4 Stars: Really enjoyed it, might read again even.
5 Stars: Super duper enjoyed, written well and read well.
Profile Image for VersaiVex_Reads.
169 reviews4 followers
March 21, 2025
Liam & Haruto are such a sweet and refreshing couple!

Whether it was the webs of fate ( it totally was lol) or their extremely nerdy nature surrounding comics, they are so super sweet.

Like all of Stella's books, she does a great job of making each character have their own problems and the ability to solve it themselves, but are reinforced by their mate. While this book really didn't have any situations or issues, it still flowed and made you want them to succeed as a perfect mated pair.

We got to see a bigger view of the Sanctuary, it's resident and even the town. Gathering more supes and friends along the way.

This book did great with the Pansexual & Ace Rep and made sure our sweet nerds were comfy and loving the entire time. There was never any uncertainty in their bond and that made their coupling sweeter.

And while Haruto is considered Ace.. there isn't a lack of sweet spice in the book. You'll have to read to figure out what I mean by that ;D While one is technically an extrovert and the other an introvert, you see throughout the book that the introvert becomes way more comfortable being out and about with friends. Haruto finds his peace in the form of his mates comforting presence and that to me is *chefs kiss*. While it doesn't mean the characters change because they found love, it does mean they have become better people and partners I think.

I always recommend going waaaaay back to the beginning if you are really curious about the series or author. Basically everything is interconnected ( which I love), but each book usually stands on it's own just fine. I'm excited for the next chapter of the sweet Sanctuary residents finding their mates, even if we are still in the dark about it ;D
Profile Image for Monica .
228 reviews1 follower
March 27, 2025
Stella Rainbow once again delivers a heartwarming and captivating story with Jorogumo, weaving together themes of love, trust, and found family. From the very first page, I was drawn into the journey of Liam and Haruto—two characters who, despite their differences, find an unexpected connection through their shared love of comic books.

Liam, a gentle giant with a heart of gold, longs to be seen for who he truly is, but past experiences have left him guarded. Haruto, on the other hand, has resigned himself to a life without love due to the boundaries set by his supernatural nature and asexuality. Neither expects to find companionship, let alone something deeper, but as their friendship blossoms, they bring out the best in each other.

What makes their relationship so special is the mutual respect and understanding they build over time. Liam never pushes Haruto past his comfort zone, and in return, Haruto begins to open up in ways he never imagined. Their journey is a touching exploration of trust, boundaries, and the transformative power of friendship and love.

The vibrant community of the Sanctuary adds another layer of warmth to the story. It’s always a pleasure to revisit this group of lovable misfits, and their presence enriches Liam and Haruto’s journey even further.

Jorogumo is a beautifully written, feel-good romance that left me with a smile on my face and a heart full of warmth. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Diego next!

I received this ARC from Stella Rainbow and voluntarily leaving my review.

Monica
28 reviews
March 20, 2025
This was a great addition to the ongoing series! Even with my extreme dislike and strong fear of spiders, I adored Haruto. Liam also served as a great reminder to never judge a person by their appearance. He seems so kind, accepting, understanding, and passionate about comic books. I would want to be his friend. Speaking of Haruto, as someone who identifies as AroAce myself, he made me feel seen, included, and represented. It meant so much to me that you took the time to expand on what Haruto feels, and how he navigates experiencing attraction. It was so refreshing to see the open dialogue between partners, and the established boundaries being respected along with continuous consent. Thank you for not glossing over this or making light of it.

I desperately needed this positive, happy, feel-good story right now. Thank you for sharing your writing. I will always appreciate being an ARC reviewer for you. I am beyond excited to read Shade's story.
Profile Image for Mandy.
4,886 reviews46 followers
October 4, 2025
This is a story about Haruto, a jorogumo (a spider-yokai), and Liam, a human comic book enthusiast, who discover they are fated mates. Haruto meets Liam during a visit to the human realm, bonding instantly over their shared love of comic books. Haruto is surprised and hopeful when Liam doesn't run away after he accidentally reveals his true nature. Liam, a self-proclaimed geek, is thrilled by the revelation of a magical world. He quickly falls for Haruto, who is sweet, kind, and provides the care and strength he's always desired. The story explores whether Liam can fully accept Haruto's supernatural nature, allowing their friendship to deepen into love.

I enjoyed this story with the various paranormal creatures living in the Sanctuary. Liam was such a sweetheart and I was so glad that they got a a HEA at the end. There wasn't much detail of emotions and feelings but it was enjoyable. This was an MM story with mature content.
Profile Image for isthisakink.
1,199 reviews23 followers
March 21, 2025
Very precious and adorable, which is typical for this author and follows the pattern for this series perfectly.

There were wonky bits, and times when I wish things wouldn’t have vanished into nothing like they weren’t ever introduced, but it was a sweet fluff bomb of love and acceptance. We also need to shoutout the shoutout to those with arachnophobia who are trying hard to work on it, because it was correct: Haruto and Liam were worth it.

Also-also, I liked the way the asexual rep made it clear that there’s a difference between it and being aromantic just by being great, simple representation. It didn’t need to preach or make a scene. That was nice.

4/5. I need that Shade novella immediately, but will wait and keep my grabby hands to myself.

871 reviews5 followers
March 21, 2025
4.5/5 This was a beautiful, low-angst story about two geeks finding one another. I appreciated how body type didn’t dictate preferences and most people were genuinely decent. I wasn’t expecting quite so many spicy moments with Haruto being ace, but I liked how they figured out what worked for them. (And it’s an excellent reminder that ace is a spectrum.)

I loved how they both found acceptance with one another and all the other inhabitants of the Sanctuary. I appreciated the geekery, the love of comics, the discovery of Marvel movies, and the web-as-furniture house. This is such a feel-good book, a lovely escape when the world is a scary place.

Really looking forward to Shade and Diego’s novella!

I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
25 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2025
I thought that this was a very sweet book! It was the second book in the series, but I feel like you could read it as a stand alone and be fine! I love Stella's books when she makes it so everyone is deserving of love, and that love comes in all forms! I loved the comic parts of the book, I love books where there is a common love between the two outside of a relationship. I loved that they were friends first, and then Haruto realized as time went on that they were mates! I would definitely recommend this feel good read!
Profile Image for Kristina.
363 reviews1 follower
March 15, 2025
Liam and Haruto’s book is so good. This book has all the sweet, steam, and fun you want. One of my favorite things is when mates match, and this book shows that perfectly. I love how great Haruto is about reassuring Liam, and how Liam always respects Haruto’s boundaries. I love how they both show so much appreciation for each other and I especially love how sweet they are together. I recommend this book!
Profile Image for Jenny.
344 reviews
March 21, 2025
Haruto and Liam's love story brings us back to The Sanctuary and all of the found family within. Our self-professed geeks meet at Liam's comic book store and as Haruto courts his human over daily lunch dates, Liam literally falls for the guy who's more spider than Spiderman. This book is fluffy yet spicy, cute and quirky.
Bonus: Interesting use of spider webbing.
Minus: The Headmaster's got us all concerned.
Profile Image for Amanda Murch.
447 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2025
great read

I love the sanctuary books I want to live there.

I love haratio from the other books (although spiders freak me out) he is such a great loveable character.
Liam I fell in love with straight away he was brilliant and I love comics too so that helps.
It was great watching their love blossom and grown.

I am really enjoying this series, I really hope headmaster gets his man :) xx
170 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2025
Liam and Haruto

Another sweet love story from the Sanctuary. It's Haruto's turn to find his fated mate, and Liam is just perfect for our resident spider monster. Oh, what a web he weaves courting his human. It was sweet, fun, and full of steam. Very entertaining. The love and respect they have for each other is simply amazing as well. I love this world Stella Rainbow created and I'm looking forward to yhe next adventure.
20 reviews
April 5, 2025
Another amazing read from Stella that keeps me wanting more. Haruto and Liam another great pairing. You get cameos from previous characters that help the couple along the way. Liam helps Haruto find love and realize that he has a family and friends that care for him. We learn about more of the sanctuary supes. Tidbits from the book tease problem with headmaster and keeping up sanctuary. Need his book soon.
Profile Image for P Leslie.
3,202 reviews17 followers
March 16, 2025
This book was all kinds of sweet and I really enjoyed it.

I adored Liam and Haruto: these two were beautiful together and their unique relationship worked for them.

I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book.

*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
1,158 reviews4 followers
March 20, 2025
I ABSOLUTELY HANDS DOWN ADORE AND LOVE LIAM AND HARUTO.

This is such a lovely and wonderful read. Liam works at a comic book store, and one day, Haruto comes to the store. After Haruto comes to the store, Liam and him eventually strike up a friendship. I really loved the interactions between these two, so sweet and special. It's just an adorable and great read.
Profile Image for Deb Kel.
2,387 reviews7 followers
March 23, 2025
I just love Stella's writing style and how she is able to build the characters so well you can fully relate to them as you follow their journey. Liam and Haruto were so sweet and add in the paranormal element and for me this book was just perfect!
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Profile Image for Brennan Gray.
59 reviews2 followers
March 30, 2025
This was such a sweet story. Big teddy bear extrovert and supe who is am introvert. It was so well written and kept my attention from beginning to end and I am already ready for the next story. I love this series so much. I loved nothing the characters the plot and pace. It also threw hints in about the main storyline going forward and I can't wait to find out why things r happening.
1,488 reviews4 followers
April 28, 2025
I fell in love with the extended Universe of Stella Rainbow's books and this second installment in The Sanctuary series is a great example of how amazing this Universe is. I fell in love with Haruto and Liam and how they found just what they needed in each other. Again, every book add a piece in the giant puzzle and I can't wait to find out what happens next. A great book! Loved it!

1,475 reviews9 followers
March 17, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. The world building is amazing and the characters are all so fascinating and unique. These two were so sweet together and I absolutely loved their slow burn story. I can’t wait for the next story.
Profile Image for Li Taylor.
1,853 reviews1 follower
October 18, 2025
excellent

Loving this new series especially with the rare supernatural characters it’s great and an excellent way to learn about them.
Great story line can’t wait for more . Highly recommended series
Profile Image for Virginia Lee.
2,465 reviews36 followers
April 8, 2025
oh the web we weave to try to find their mate. when they meet he know that he take slow to get his mate to get know each other. you will see some friends that hope get their happy ending
Profile Image for Ana Silva.
517 reviews9 followers
March 31, 2025
This book is a sweet, heartfelt MM romance with a unique twist. Haruto, the jorogumo, is a character that stands out, not just because of his supernatural nature, but because of his gentle, caring personality. His dynamic with Liam, a human comic book store worker, creates a lovely balance of soft romance and geeky charm. The blend of paranormal elements and geek culture references adds a fun layer to the story.

The romance between Haruto and Liam is slow and tender, making for an enjoyable, low-stakes read that focuses on emotional connection and character growth. If you like stories with gentle pacing, supernatural beings, and a romance that grows naturally, The Jorogumo is a great pick.

Profile Image for Hannah.
67 reviews32 followers
March 30, 2025
I voluntarily read an ARC for this book. Once again Stella has brought us two people that feel a bit misunderstood and needing that someone special in their life and Haruto and Liam are just right for each other. I loved being able to explore Japanese mythology in Stella’s own way and I loved seeing everyone else from The Sanctuary and I can’t wait until the next HEA!
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