Zodiac Monsters

Monsters of Graves Academy #2

by Leann Belle

What are brothers for, if not completely ruining each other's lives?

Two months at Graves Academy, and my life is a mess. 

The people who I thought I could trust are monsters, and those who I thought were monsters, well... I was right. Even when I do my best to distance myself from these dangerous men, the push and pull of the stars keeps us tied together. There's no reason an incubus, a vampire, or Zodiac Shifters should have any interest in a human. 

On the full moon of Pisces and the full moon of Aries, I might have to confront the fact that my Incubus professor, my vampire classmate, and my mysterious coworker aren't the ones who have been lying to me my entire life. 

Zodiac Monsters is the second book in Monsters of Graves Academy series, a paranormal dark academia romance set in a college where supernatural creatures hide in plain sight. You'll love it if you enjoy light Omegaverse mixed with horoscopes and astrology, enemies to lovers, student/teacher, and monster romance, finished with a splash of self-discovery and possessive, morally gray men who will fight for their very, very good girl.

Genres: Fantasy, Vampires, Paranormal, Shapeshifters, Monsters, Spicy, Why Choose

351 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2024

About the author

Leann Belle was born and raised in Los Angeles as an eternal dreamer, a hardcore gamer, and obsessive anime, manga, and JRPG nerd. Having fallen in love with countless villains, she immediately fell in love with the dark side of romance, and her lifelong love affair with Japanese horror and fantasy has heavily influenced her writing style as she crafts vicious and magical worlds.

When she’s not typing away behind her laptop, she’s living out of a tent off the back of her motorcycle on her quest to ride around the world. The wilderness is the best place to catch up on reading, after all!

Reviews

[Leann Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to love, astrology, and emotional baggage

I don't know if you'll all love me or hate me for this installment, but as long as you have feelings, I'm content 🤣

[Sanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a very very slow burn but also not. I like the pacing and the world building. Without getting to boring. I am excited to read all of them. And you should know I never read a long serie.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Camille Murray · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started the second book because I needed to know if Marcus was going to redeem himself for graping the fmc. The trigger warnings indicate duc/con and while that is definitely in this series, straight up grape is as well. It's bothering me that the story seems to try to explain it away as dun/con or somnophilia. I cannot stand Marcus and his immature and destructive nature. The story tries to explain he is that way because his brother was mean to him. It's pathetic. Adrian is the better brother but he is still an ass hole. I really want to see what can happen between Ceto and Lila. I'm really intrigued by Ceto and what he really wants. I. desperately hoping they all acknowledge that Marcus graped her and he pays the price for it.

[Ms. Dess · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Series Rating: TBD

We Have:
✅ FMM(+M?)
✅ why choose
✅ Academia
✅ Supernatural/Paranormal
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Multiple POV
✅ Cliffhanger (Book 2 of 6)

First, I love that this book starts with "Last Time in Monsters of Graves Academy." LOL—100% heard this in a soap opera voice..

I'm so freaking impatient. The great thing about this book is you get a ton of answers... The crappy thing is - I still have a TON of questions - lol - BUT it's important to remember - through this WHOLE Review ... I'M IMPATIENT!!

What does that mean? It means omg I wanted to read this whole fucking book in one sitting - and I couldn't. I wanted to KNOW everything, and I thought the novelty of the situation would have worn off... Nope. It didn't. This book was a bit more serious than the first. I giggled endlessly throughout book 1 (I still stand on the hill that Marcus is everything, Ceto a close second, and I legit am over the damn professor).

This time around, I'm paying very close attention in Astrology class (I can't wait until they get to my sign); I wish Marcus were more in the forefront (#TeamMarcus)- I'm irritated with Adrian, and what in the actual fuck is Ceto? - I love him, by the way - He's freaking adorable, and I hope that he enters the group chat 🥴🥴🥴

We have a long way to go with this series - and the way I'm getting answers, which also lead to more questions, is mouthwatering... Speaking of that 😏😏😏 - I want more smut... I meant we are getting great.. fucking... Scenes... UGH! The tension and build-up of each one of them is scrumptious - but I'd like more. - again, impatient here, hello! - but the number of them isn't doing it for me. I'm not a fan of edging 😏😏 More, please! I have a feeling as the plot comes more into play and the characters fill their places more securely, it's going to be a blast. I'm ready to see how her relationship develops with each one of them - except Adrian - because I'm sooo team Marcus right now. 1. His internal dialogue is HILARIOUS and 2. Feels - he's giving me feels.

Anywho - while this book has a different feel - so much happens that leaves you antsy AF for book three but really satisfied with what you've learned thus far. I feel like it's necessary to see some bad with the good, and I miss the hilarious, light-hearted banter of the first book. I laughed out loud so many times there, and this one just felt different. Don't get me wrong - there were plenty of pages that had me chuckle, but I kind of felt like this one was more informative, and grrr, I don't know how to describe it. Like, you know, things are going to happen, and you're waiting to see if it's good or if it's bad in the sense that you keep waiting for a meltdown - I know I'm not describing it right, but it just wasn't the super fun vibe of the first book. Now, that could have been intentional, or that could be my dark romance PTSD...

Now, I'll be impatiently waiting for the next book... FML 😒 - and I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion - clearly, I had thoughts lol

[PleaseGoAwayImReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so addicted to this series!

In this second book, Human Lila, as Ceto calls her, is not quite so human after all. But even so , there’s part of Lila’s heritage that still hasn’t been figured out.

I enjoyed watching Lila discover herself in this one. I also enjoyed the play between Lila and Marcus, Lila and Adrian, and the three of them all together. It was also interesting to watch Marcus and Adrian’s dynamic with one another as they definitely conversed more — and more deeply— with one another in this book. Their rivalry and jealousy over Lila definitely keeps things interesting.

I’m looking forward to the next book in the series, hopefully to learn more about exactly what Lila’s heritage is, and also to see how Lila’s friend (and possible suitor?) comes into play.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back in the graves university world and so glad to be back.

These books just feel too short for me I want so much more. I loved being back in the life of the main character. Her problems with identity, love interests and becoming more confident as a student and young woman.

It felt like we got a lot more character in this book for all our most important characters. I can't wait to learn more about them in the coming books. I hope we also get more about the creatures in this world and maybe some more about the world itself as well.

Also love the spicy scenes here so good 🥵.

Thank you to booksirens for a copy of this book to read and review.

[Crazydutchbooklady · Rating 4 out of 5]

We keep following Lila at Graves Academy in part two of Zodiac Monsters.

Again it’s an enjoyable interesting read. I’m highly invested because of the zodiac shifter abilities and some characters start to grow more on me.
Like Marcus emery’s inner dialogue was hilarious in the beginning of the book. During the end I even start to feel a bit pity for him.
I’m still disliking the professor tho, he’s still an ass if you ask me.
Adding Ceto was a good thing, he’s very likable and an enigma. I’m curious to read more about him and hope we get some more answers in the next part.

[Shénagh · Rating 3 out of 5]

3. 5⭐ – Fun and Suspenseful Sequel

After enjoying the first book, I was looking forward to continuing the story—and this one didn't disappoint, it kept the same fun, quirky vibe. It was funny, full of suspense, and I loved trying to figure out what Lila really is. The dynamic between the brothers was great again.

Some parts felt a bit repetitive, like the classroom jealousy and back-and-forth teasing, which dragged slightly. But overall, it was still an enjoyable read, and I’ve already downloaded the next one to see what happens next! Here's hoping for a 5 star read ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.

[Jessica Roe · Rating 5 out of 5]

MA'AM!!! 🥵🥵🥵🥵🤯
I need more ASAP 😅
If this series on your TBR list, Start it NOW🥵

[Mei · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book, gave it 4 stars and was excited to read the next installment. I'm giving this continuation a 3.5 because of character (non)developments, personalities, and plot (or lack there of). I don't know how long this series because a trilogy won't be enough. Besides finding out what Lila is, which in the end was not very exciting, what is the overarching plot? Is there one? Will Ceto start interacting with people outside of the library or the store?

As I continued reading, I came upon a realization that I didn't like the characters. Usually MMCs have something that'll keep the readers in their corner but they're just unlikeable. After that, I found it really hard to continue. Once my connection with the characters was lost, it was really hard to regain it. Though it's supposed to be a dark romance, it's not. I read Of Monsters and Mazes from this author, and though the men are even more morally grey than those in this book, there were redeeming qualities, as they all innately wanted to assist the FMC.

Adrian is an Incubus\Zodiac shifter, a cold manipulative alphah**e and honestly doesn't deserve any of Lila's attention. Adrian continues to flirt with Linda and to what end? He doesn't have any real motivation in doing so. It's odd.
From Adrian's Pov (Does this seem like a male that even likes her? This is midway through the second book.):

"This absolutely wasn’t a date, but it was a means to an end. In a way, I was being as manipulative as he was, leveraging the fact that she was drawn to me to keep her out of his sphere on this night, but what kind of a mentor would I be if I didn’t look out for her when she was in danger...The only thing an Incubus might break was her heart."

"That dress is striking on you." I paid her a compliment, and her cheeks turned beet red. If I could contribute nothing else of value, I could at least build her confidence. She deserved to hold her head high and find someone who would worship her."

Marcus continues to ask her out on dates but doesn't even know if he even likes her. He's petty, manipulative, and not to mention he did essentially r**e her in the first book. He doesn't even tell her. Both men have given her mating marks for no real good reason. Is it a sibling rivalry in which Lila is collateral damage? It's clear both are obsessed with her but having to read their POVs just reinforces my dislike of them. Adrian & Marcus's worthiness & redemption arc starts in the later half and I wasn't sure if I cared at that point.

Ceto is the other potential mate for Lila. We had glimpses of him in the first book and his role is expanded here. He offers Lila a job at his clothing store where he constantly asks if she know what she is. It's a bit repetitive.

Now, with our FMC. She's so desperate to have connections with people and to have the mmcs' attention and basically lets them steam-roll over her. Just reject them and move on and get your degree. (I'm just riling myself up at this point)Have a backbone. Some more examples:

"I didn’t even know why we were celebrating. I just followed along like a lost puppy."

"He’d only shoot me down further and make me feel worse, reminding me that he didn’t want me, that our relationship was inappropriate, and that we didn’t have anything real here at all. Why was it so hard for me to see him every day, while it was so easy for him to reject me.

Another problem is the over explanation of Zodiac signs, personalities, and characteristics. Ok. I get it. After awhile, I started skimming the descriptions cause surely it could have been summed up in the first book right?

The art in between sections was a nice touch though.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CelticMoonGoddess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 is my favourite one out of the three so far published in this series, as Lila finds herself in some very interesting, erotic, steamy and exciting full moon situations of Pisces and Aries, with the Aries moon encounter involving both Adrian and Marcus.

Lila has grown up a lot as she enters her third and fourth months at Graves Academy, and the intrigue around her shifter origin, bloodline, and what hybrid mix she could be adds to creating mystery around her and why she never knew of her magical essence. She has been thrown in at the deep end as she tries to come to terms very quickly, learning and discovering this new supernatural world unfolding around her.

The difference between Adrian and Marcus grows as we learn more about their dynamic of step-brothers, and with multiple POV exciting to see the mindset of each and their different behaviours, mannerisms and perspectives.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tab_Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️ 3.5🌶️
MOOD: adventurous, tense
TROPES: virgin main character, age gap, student/professor
VIBES: why choose, dark(-ish) academia, sibling rivalry, demonology
GENRES: fantasy/paranormal, monster romance, college/academy
FAV QUOTE: Okay. Clear path forward. Honesty. Appeal to her hormones. Be a psychopath.

MAIN CHARACTERS: Lila Denton, Adrian Karras, Marcus Emery, Ceto Arya

I wanted to like this one more than I did. I had to go back and look at the BookSirens description (which matches the good reads description) to figure out why I wanted to read it because for most of the book it felt like nothing happened - no plot movement, no character development (particularly with Lila), or relationship growth - and this was the book I wanted to read so much that I had to go back and read Zodiac Hybrids first. This is probably not the series for me which is really disappointing.

THE GOOD: The best part of this story/series is still the lore & world. Adrian, Marcus, and Ceto are still the most interesting characters and I wonder what it'd be like not to have a fourth main character since she very much feels like a stand in for the reader (but not in a good way most of the time). The new pieces of that were great. Unfortunately, almost everything thing else was lacking.
THE NEUTRAL: I was expecting more Ceto. I also thought there would be more months/moons especially given that it was laid out what happens during full moons in the first book. The first 60% of this story felt like filler. What we learn about Aiden & Marcus as kids was interesting but didn't really add to what is happening in the present in a way that moved the plot or added to their relationship(s). There was even an author's note that the book was longer than planned and that's not always a good thing. I'm not a fan of love triangles and the why choose elements definitely fell into that type of element - more so in this book than in the first one.
THE MEH: Lila wearing shapewear/restrictive underwear felt ridiculous after everything that happened in book one. Her relationship with her body was fine in the first book, not great but fine so for that to appear repeatedly in the second book was weird. It's mentioned in the first book that she packed some and she wore it once (and it was ruined) then it's not mentioned again. There were also a few times when fairly defined characters acted in a way that seemed outside their character and that was annoying but maybe had a reason?

CW: sexual content, dubious consent, public sex, manipulation/mind games
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. This is my honest review.

[Carol Rupprecht · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zodiac Monsters was even better than the first book in this series!! We got so much information in this book and even more questions that need answered as the story continues. One of the big ones for me was the explanation of Adrian and Marcus's parents and the whole story about why the two brothers don't get along. There was so much more to it than an affair, if you can even call it that at this point. It was a very complicated situation that eventually caused feelings to snowball into what they are now with no way to reverse the outcome. But I have a feeling Lila is going to bring these brothers closer than they ever expected to be. You can already see little signs of it throughout this book. I won't say that they will be bffs, but I can definitely see the mean jabs turning into teasing banter eventually between the two. Their relationship with Lila is sort of putting them in a similar situation as their parents, but I really have hope that there will be a much more positive outcome where no one will get hurt in the end.
We also got to find out more about Lila in this book, and by more, I don't mean much more. We find out her designation of either alpha, beta, or omega. Take a guess on what you think she is. But other than that, everything is still up in the air. There’s still so much to find out and not much to go by. We'll see if her parents are able to share anything with her in the next book.
I really enjoyed seeing more of Ceto this time around and am hoping he starts to play a bigger part in the story soon. I love his character and how blunt he is with Lila. He's honest with her and way more up front than Adrian and Marcus and so far it doesn't seem like he has much of an ulterior motive. I think he could be really good for Lila and I think learning from her and vice versa will be one of the things they spend time doing together. His designation should shake things up a bit as well and I’m really wondering how his and Lila's will interact with one another compared to how the alphas react to her. How different will it be?
I still don't believe things are going to go well for Marcus after a while. My prediction is that Lila is going to find out what Marcus did to her in the first book and how he's been trying to manipulate her this whole time causing her to make the decision to reject his bond. You can begin to tell that he's starting to develop feelings for her, but that may not be enough when everything is revealed. Looking forward to the next book!

[Silje · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a slight improvement over the first one, mainly due to an increase in the spice level. There is some character development, primarily in the discovery of aspects of Ceto and Lila's nature, as well as gaining more insight into the relationship between Marcus and Adrian. But I'm astonished at how relaxed Lila is about this life-turning event. If I found out my parents lied to me my whole life, their being on vacation would not stop me from contacting them in any way possible, even hunting them down if necessary.

The second book is also a bit longer than the first, at around 350 pages, but I don't understand how it is so long, because content-wise, it doesn't seem to add up. What I'm left with after reading this book is Lila building a friendship with Ceto and romancing a bit with Marcus, her figuring out a little bit more about her new world, all the men denying their feelings about several things (a lot of denial going around), and two failed attempts at avoiding shifting during the full moon. This doesn't warrant 350 pages, so in my opinion, there is much unnecessary writing in this book.

For me, these books are essentially a somewhat erotic paranormal romance story. Still, the author appears to be making a considerable effort to lend the narrative more substance and portray it as more than just that, with "broken" characters and a "finding yourself" storyline. I'm still unsure whether she has succeeded with that or just added extra pages.

On a sidenote: I'm having a hard time reviewing these books because the author has, on purpose, cut one whole story into, presumably, six pieces. There's no finality at the end of the books so far, just "to be continued," and the next book picks up right where the latter left off. This feels unnatural to me and makes it challenging to become familiar with the characters and see development (which is a crucial aspect of a book for me) in Book One and most of Book Two. She herself points out that even after about 150k words, we are barely getting to know the people in the story. I don't think I would have continued with this series if I had to pay for it book by book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

okay just finished this! and overall: loved!! this did seem to drag a bit in the beginning but I was still hooked & invested. I love that we're getting more povs from the guys, and being inside Marcus' head had me laughing out loud at times. he's doing his best to convince himself that he's a mean, alpha male and is upset that Lila thinks he's the opposite and I was dyingggg at how offended he was when she said she thought he was a beta 🤣🤣

Adrian's back and forth is starting to piss me off, but I know this is why choose so hopefully he gets his sh!t together soon. I'm ready for some groveling tho. from both of them really bc this poor girl has no idea what's going on aside from what little info they decide to share with her.

I am **very** excited to see her and Ceto on page more. I like how their relationship is developing and I can't wait to see what history there is between him and adrian&marcus? bc I have a feeling there's someeeething there I just don't know what. also I totally called his designation and I think I know what kinda shifter he is too 👀 can't share here bc spoilers but I'm down to chat w anyone who's finished :)

I'm really liking the world building and the magic system. the only issue I'm having is that the astrology sessions are starting to seem like info dumps? I really like learning more about the signs and what kinda lines up with each, but there were a couple times I felt my eyes glazing over bc there was a lot of info dropped in a huge chunk of dialogue and I had to go back and read it like three times. other than that? I'm v invested bc the way that astrology, shifters and other types of paranormal creatures are all interconnected is super cool to read about.

anyways, like I said overall: loved. the spicy scenes are 🔥 and I am HERE for this switch in Lila & Marcus' dynamic. I'm ready to get to the next book bc that little reveal at the end has me on the edge of my seat 👀

**arc review**

[Deborah Durand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brotherly Love

Freaking fabulous! This 2nd installment can only be fully appreciated by reading the first book. Welcome to Graves Academy where the usual collegiate courses are taught to primarily magical creatures with a smattering of human students to make this novel interesting. Lila Denton believes she belongs to the latter especially since she hasn’t morphed into another creature during a full moon… like her Physics professor, Adrian Karras, a Capricorn Incubus Hybrid shifter. She has also seen his half brother, Marcus Emery, a Leo vampire hybrid shifter, transform into an aquatic creature during the height of the full moon in Aquarius. And at the end of the first book, Lila makes a new friend whom she knows is magical. Ceto Arya is a socially awkward introvert whose family owns a clothing store where Lila works part time. He sarcastically refers to her as Human Lila, because she’s totally unaware of her own magical identity.

Read how Lila becomes more knowledgeable about the creatures around her and how the Zodiac signs influence their personality and behavior.

And as she becomes less reticent and more curious about others including herself, she discovers some very important people have been keeping secrets from her. This is an intensely sexual novel, but the majority of the pages are dedicated to the emotional intricacies of all the main characters and how they are affected by intimacy. This ends in a relative cliffhanger, but it’s an invitation to see how Ceto fits into this love triangle. Cannot wait to read it. Worth more than 5 stars ⭐️.
I have received an ARC from the author and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.

[Brita Mackay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am in love with this series. Since Zodiac Academy ended, I have been searching for my next fix, and I have now found it. Leann Belle's Zodiac series, while not the twisted sisters, has filled the hole that Zodiac Academy left in me. Just please check your TRIGGER warnings. YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!

This is book 2 in the series, and it delivers. Oh boy! It really started to open up the storyline and really started to answer a lot of the questions that were left with book 1. But, at the same time, you are left with a whole new set of questions. Something I think you needed with this series.

Zodiac Monsters goes more in-depth with our character arcs, and we get to learn more about our characters. We learn more about Adrian and Marcus and their past and how they came to have the relationship now that they do.

I wish we could have learned more about Lila, her past, her parents, and their past. I think that would have been very beneficial in moving the story forward and learning more about who and what she is. It would have also helped in understanding how her mom came to have such an easy time in getting Lila enrolled in Graves

The other thing that I wish in terms of character creation is that we could have learned more about some of the other side characters that we have met. Often, when the side characters are mentioned, it is as an afterthought not to move the story along or as an important part of the story.

I love how we have started to learn what Lila is and why she has the effects on Marcus, Adrian, and, to a degree, even Ceto, that she does. It would have again been nice if we could have learned from her parents more about what she fully is and what effects she will have on others fully. And what is with her ability to take multiple mate marks?

The storyline has tightened up a lot, and it has gotten so much stronger. I loved that with the strengthening of the story line the plot has has the time to really shine and we have gotten to really know the characters and we have been able to really see everything that the author wants to show us really come together.

Leann Belle, please don't make us wait too long for book 3. You left us on a cliff, and I'm about to fall off.

[Adena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things are heating up in book 2! If you have not yet read the first book, I highly recommend doing that before starting this book. This story builds upon the characters and relationships that began in book 1.

We get to meet two more signs of the Zodiac, and things are getting steamier. I really enjoy the mystery of discovering what powers our FMC has as she learns about them. It is also very refreshing to read spicy scenes that don't sound cliche or cringe. There is also a disclaimer at the beginning to let you know whether or not the themes are something you want to read about, so if this isn't your cup of tea you don't have to find out after you're already invested in the characters.

I'm really enjoying this world and the mythology behind it. The characters are also a lot of fun, and I can't wait to learn more about the secrets they are hiding. It is helpful that the POV shifts from character to character each chapter. We experience the plot through the eyes of the most relevant character for each scene, and it is masterfully done. Sometimes when you switch perspectives, you miss out on what the other characters ore doing or thinking, or you repeat scenes you already read. It is a delicate balance but in this series it is done extremely well. I never felt that things were dragging or that important things were rushed or missing.

I can't wait to meet the rest of the signs of the zodiac! How long before the next book is out? Not soon enough!

I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was great to see Lila's evolution—not just as a character, but as a woman stepping into her own, even if she still clings a little too tightly to that needy streak. The story teases you with partial answers, but raises just as many questions along the way. We get a deeper glimpse into Lila’s true nature, though the full mystery remains locked away. Adrian and Marcus may have dialed down the hostility, but they continue to play their games with Lila. However, there's a new player in town. I loved Ceto, but given how things have fared so far, I can’t help but question his intentions. Is he truly friend or foe? Either way, I couldn't help but appreciate how he treated Lila, especially compared to the rollercoaster of mixed signals she’s still getting from Adrian and Marcus. Adrian continues to waver on his feelings for Lila (seriously, will he ever make up his mind?), while Marcus clings to his mean, devil-may-care persona by the thinnest of threads. As I mentioned in my review of the first book, that one felt like more of an appetizer. But this is where the story really starts. The plot thickens, pulling you in deeper, and the heat between the characters is more intense, with the simmering tension threatening to explode at any moment. The passion, the intrigue—it’s all ramped up, leaving no doubt that this book is a keeper, and a tantalizing promise of what’s yet to come. My imagination is already running wild!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kelsy Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. While the characters are pretty frustrating at this point in the series, I find everything else very interesting.

I'm loving the build up to figuring out why Adrian and Marcus despise each other so much. While we get the gist of why they don't get along in this book, I still feel like there's more to then.

I also love that we see more of Ceto in this book. But I still wish there were more of him. He's probably the most mysterious out of the guys so far and he's not quite as focused on yet. I'm looking forward to seeing how he connects to Marcus, seeing as it's mentioned by both of them that they know of each other. I love how we're figuring out what Ceto is just as slowly as we are Lila. I feel like while we know what Marcus and Adrian are, were still left wondering about Lila and Ceto and I can't wait to read more about both of them.

I'm really intrigued by Lila and can't wait to figure out what exactly she is. While she's revealed as non human, I still feel like it's not enough. It's just the tip of the iceberg.

So I can't wait for the third book to find out more about this world and these characters. I'm definitely loving this series so far and am excited to continue it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shelley G · Rating 5 out of 5]

a really interesting book with many many plot twists you will really need to pay attention to to keep story straight. it ends on a cliffhanger which i absolutely hate however I was able to also get the arc copy for bk 3 at same time so didn't have to wait. Things are heating up between Marcus, Lila and Adrian as Lila becomes more aware of the non human world and that she herself must not be a shifter. Marcus and Adrian are still fighting each other esp as both have marked Lila and have to fight being triggered each full moon. Lila isn't cooperating either making some rash choices regarding full moon nights out of curiosity and lack of knowledge. Feelings between all three are getting tangled and twisted and someone Lila thinks is a friend wants more than that but Lila being very sheltered and naive doesn't have the maturity and experience even at 22 to see the reality in the ppl/supernaturals around her and takes everything at face value.

Well detailed and rich characters, wonderful world building around the academy and life there as well as the zodiac symbols meaning. a slow burn convoluted story line that keeps u guessing on what will happen next with some definite surprises. this author knows how to weave a story over the long haul.
I received an arc copy from book sirens and this is my honest voluntary review.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zodiac Monsters
Monsters of Graves Academy: Book 2 by Leann Belle

🍆🍆🍆🍆🍆/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

✅ FMM(+M?)
✅ why choose
✅ Academia
✅ Supernatural/Paranormal
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Multiple POV

Another GREAT book by Leann Belle!! I finished in two days, would have been completed in one day but hubby was leaving for 4 weeks on clean up crew ☹. I enjoyed the banter between Marcus and Adrian even though I still feel like Adrian can be an ass, and I can’t wait to find out what Cateo is. The struggles a reverse harem can cause, OMG so so so yummy. The Fountain – yes yes please. Hopefully when/if the third joins (fingers cross for Cateo) it will be smoother since they already have a great “friend” relationship. However, I get the feeling that Cateo and Marcus have a past and that will cause tension. All speculations but one can hope and dream 😊. I can’t wait for the banter on how Marcus and Adrian’s chat goes after that last one (aka the Fountain). I can’t wait for Lila and of course me 😊 to find out what she is. I wonder if now Marcus knows and if he will tell Adrian. This series is so yummy and now I have to wait until June for the next one ☹.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zodiac Monsters by Leann Belle is book two in the Monsters of Graves Academy series. Let me tell you after reading the first book I couldn’t wait to get my eyes on this one. It was so worth it, I’m so invested in everything I’m reading with this world. I didn’t want to stop reading and each chapter just kept me so interested. This book had the perfect balance of seriousness (more than the first) and humor. I think the line was straddled perfectly. But that being said I want to know so much more! I’m also really enjoying the character’s interactions with one another. Marcus and Lila is top tier and so are the others but I’m leaning towards him the most at the moment. I mean this has some seriously great tropes that I continue to eat up such as: enemies to lovers, astrology, student/teacher and some juicy morally grey men. Plus the writing is on point and very well done. The plot just keeps drawing me in and I’m invested. I will mention it does end on a cliffhanger and now I want the next book even more. This was a great reading experience for me and I would recommend that you check it out for yourself.

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fact that I have to wait for book three is currently crushing my soul.

I picked up this book this morning, and finished at around 12:30AM tonight so. When I say I’m hooked? I’m HOOKED.

I always get nervous for book two in a world that has a lot of variables, but Leann nailed it, yet again.

My favorite part of this series has been watching each of the main characters motivations evolve as the story goes on. Each of them are so different from where the story began, which is necessary in a series like this. The development was worked in so naturally, it wasn’t until I sat back and remembered how they all started in book one that I was able to see how much their stories have influenced each character’s growth.

I really enjoyed how this book got more into the astrology side of things, and the pacing at which twists are revealed.

Another thing I appreciated was the focus on consent within the dark romance theme. The things that happen aren’t purely for shock value, but because the characters are invested in exploring their relationships (or lack thereof) in a safe, but still thrilling, way.

I’m so invested in seeing where the story goes next!

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. We are back at Graves Academy. Lila Denton is dealing with being marked by brothers. For all intents and purposes, Lila still considers herself a human. Thankfully, she has met someone who is willing to help her navigate her new normal. Ceto Arya knew Lila wasn’t human but also knew she was not ready to hear it. No human could take a Zodiac shifters mark and Lila had two. Marcus is regretting his decision to throw his brother off his game. Professor Adrian is always so in control. Marcus just wanted to mess with him a little. It is not working out the way he wanted it to. In the end, he might lose Lila.

While out during the full moon, Lila shifts. Lila has a lot to deal with. More specifically, why her parents never told her. Whew! This series is getting good. We finally know what Lila is. Will Lila get more information from her parents? Will Adrian and Marcus learn to live in harmony. Neither one is willing to let Lila go. I can’t wait to see where this series will go from here.

[Heather Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well.. When I started this series a couple of days ago I had thought that it was a completed series, so imagine my surprise to get to the end of this book only to realize I cannot move onto the next one yet because it doesn't release until JUNE! UGH!!! I was so drawn into this very intriguing and one of a kind world with these unique characters and now I don't know what to do. 😩

I honestly love the world; it's so unique in a multitude of ways and now that we're getting more info into the characters and how everything works it's getting harder and harder to put down.
The spice is so good (4🌶️), but I do wish she would get it without it being a full moon. Also, Lila seems a bit more fixated on Adrian moreso than Marcus and Ceto come off more like the extra side character with a mild crush rather than a potential main love interest. I really do hope for more development on those fronts.

I'd really like to see Lila develop some female friendships; she deserves it, for sure.

The revelations in these pages are wild and I just can't wait to see what happens next.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to BookSirens ARC of this book. I was so glad to be able read I’m book one and two together, now I get to try and be patient while I wait for the third book and the rest of this series.

Another book I finished in two days of reading, I think the husband will be glad to have me back. I enjoy the content warning as that gave me something to look forward to and this one did not miss the mark. The struggles a reverse harem can cause. Hopefully when/if the third joins it will be smoother (well the hopes of the Omega Gemini), but from the tension I get from him and one of Lila’s mates may bring something more to the table. All speculations but one can hope.

Spicy scenes never fail, and I can’t wait for how Marcus and Adrian’s chat goes after that last one.

I also can’t wait for Lila to find out what she is and wonder if now Marcus knows and if will he tell Adrian?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book - lives up to the promise of book 1

It's often a risk to read the second book of a series when you enjoyed the first one so much, just in case of disappointment, however this one has really maintained the interest & momentum of what promises to be a brilliant series.

The main female character (Lila) is still delectable but developing in new & mysterious ways. The two main male characters (Adrian & Marcus) continue their rivalry (with Lila being the victim or beneficiary of their conflict, depending on the moment!).

There is also Ceto, a mysterious male briefly introduced in the first book but developing slowly but steadily in this one.

(There was a moment where I thought that the flow of the story would get bogged down with astrology detail but, fortunately, it recovered its balance.)

Definitely recommend to everyone who enjoyed the first of this series (and yes, you need to read book 1 first).

[Lili · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although it might seem that Lila is the central character in the series, I think the limelight keeps shifting among the 3 male main characters with each new POV.

Like Lila, they all have their childhood trauma (even if Ceto's is still undisclosed), and they all seem to gravitate towards her, irresistibly drawn by whatever her other half is (also still undisclosed).
I think it all stems from the family secrets and dynamics of each character, but you'll need to read the book to get a glimpse because… spoilers. Even the brothers somehow have a different family by having different fathers, and at the same time they have a lot of denied torment inside of them, resulting in loving to hate each other. Still, the psychological insight is very interesting, and their inner selves start slowly unraveling - and Ceto is not even on their radar yet!

I look forward to read what's next.

I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shirley M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. I have to say, at this point, I dislike Adrian. He says he doesn't want Lila, but then he acts possessive. He's bossy and kind of a hypocrite. I'm still team Marcus. Yeah, he's manipulating Lila, but he's so nice and subtle about it. I want to see him get time alone with her, without Adrian interrupting. Marcus genuinely likes Lila, although he doesn't want to admit it. I didn't like seeing Marcus feel like he was getting pushed aside. I want to see him get something good out of all of this. Lila is wishy washy and is still learning who she is, and she definitely did something way "out there". Ceto, still remains a mystery. So far, I like his quirky, awkward personality and I look forward to seeing more of his story and if he and Lila will get together.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.