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Monsters of Moonvale #2
Afterglow
A woman rediscovering herself…
After my husband left, all I wanted was to find myself again. Turns out that’s a lot easier said than done when my chronic pain has me canceling plans and everything I try reminds me of my inadequacies.
Things only get worse when my attempt at exploring submission is a total disaster. But hope comes in the form of my stoic, stunning vampire friend, Blair. She offers to teach me, giving me a space to safely explore a side of myself I’ve kept locked away.
It’s meant to be platonic. Just one friend helping another. So then why can’t I stop imagining what it would be like to take things further?
A vampire losing control…
I’ve spent the past ten years building a life where I’m in control. I swore I’d never go back to being the pathetic, emotional girl I was before I was turned.
Then Grace showed up.
I knew from the moment we met she’d be a problem. My monster craves her in a way that terrifies me, and her humor and beauty pierce through the cracks in my carefully crafted, cold facade. Yet keeping my distance would ruin one of the few friendships I have.
How do I shore up the crumbling barriers around my heart before I end up more broken and alone than I was the night I became a vampire?
Afterglow is a spicy, slow burn sapphic romance featuring a jaded, lonely vampire FMC and a bubbly, anxious human FMC.
Afterglow is Book 2 in the Monsters of Moonvale series, however, it can be read as a standalone.
After my husband left, all I wanted was to find myself again. Turns out that’s a lot easier said than done when my chronic pain has me canceling plans and everything I try reminds me of my inadequacies.
Things only get worse when my attempt at exploring submission is a total disaster. But hope comes in the form of my stoic, stunning vampire friend, Blair. She offers to teach me, giving me a space to safely explore a side of myself I’ve kept locked away.
It’s meant to be platonic. Just one friend helping another. So then why can’t I stop imagining what it would be like to take things further?
A vampire losing control…
I’ve spent the past ten years building a life where I’m in control. I swore I’d never go back to being the pathetic, emotional girl I was before I was turned.
Then Grace showed up.
I knew from the moment we met she’d be a problem. My monster craves her in a way that terrifies me, and her humor and beauty pierce through the cracks in my carefully crafted, cold facade. Yet keeping my distance would ruin one of the few friendships I have.
How do I shore up the crumbling barriers around my heart before I end up more broken and alone than I was the night I became a vampire?
Afterglow is a spicy, slow burn sapphic romance featuring a jaded, lonely vampire FMC and a bubbly, anxious human FMC.
Afterglow is Book 2 in the Monsters of Moonvale series, however, it can be read as a standalone.
Unknown Binding
First published November 19, 2024
251 people are currently reading
2367 people want to read
About the author
Emily Antoinette
16 books898 followersEmily loves cozy, emotional, and spicy romances with a monstrous twist. When she isn’t musing on the merits of doting, dominant monsters, she reads an obscene amount of romance novels, and cultivates her eccentric recluse persona.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
November 11, 2024
Afterglow is a sapphic vampire x human romance full of emotion, steam, and so much love! The story follows Grace, a woman still finding her bearing after a recent divorce, and Blair, her friend and professional domme. Wanting to explore the world of kink, Grace and Blair strike up a plan to teach her and still keep their friendship. This was such a sweet and sensual read, I loved diving into Grace and Blair's mutual pining. The two were so gone for each other and it was so sweet to see them open up and flourish under the care of a relationship. The steam was so fun and explorative, I loved that Grace was always encouraged to ask for what she wanted and advocate for herself. The romance and ending was bittersweet and just fit the tone of the book so well. Prepare to cry!
Read if you like:
🩸Hurt and Comfort🩸
🩸Angst🩸
🩸Disability Rep🩸
🩸Slow Burn🩸
🩸Domme x Sub🩸
🩸Yearning🩸
🩸Bi Awakening🩸
~Many thanks to Emily Antoinette for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Read if you like:
🩸Hurt and Comfort🩸
🩸Angst🩸
🩸Disability Rep🩸
🩸Slow Burn🩸
🩸Domme x Sub🩸
🩸Yearning🩸
🩸Bi Awakening🩸
~Many thanks to Emily Antoinette for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
April 14, 2025
Ughhh this book completely wrecked me in the best way!!!
I really felt Grace. Her chronic pain, the frustration, the grief of not being able to do “simple” things, is something I struggle with too snd Emily nailed that experience. And seeing her step into her sexuality and kink exploration after everything she’s been through was really beautiful to witness and watching her embrace this whole new part of herself was so freaking empowering!!
And don’t even get me started on Blair!! She’s so emotionally awkward but loyal to the core. The way she shows up for Grace, the way she learns to communicate better and be a safe space was really doing things to my heart.
And the kink? YES it was hot, we had a really well done dom/sub dynamic and with it a few other kinks like slight humiliation, degradation, praise, impact- play, a lot of teasing and of course a really hot face fitting scene!! And all this definitely had me kicking my feet, but what really got me was how emotional it was.
The kink here wasn’t just about the play—it was about connection, trust, letting go. Letting someone see you fully and hold that space with care. The way Blair gave Grace room to surrender and feel safe in her vulnerability? That’s what did me in. That emotional intimacy? That’s the real kink!!
This book was raw, tender, queer, and so real. One of those stories that lingers and makes you want to reread it just to live in that space again—even if it breaks your heart a little every time.
I really felt Grace. Her chronic pain, the frustration, the grief of not being able to do “simple” things, is something I struggle with too snd Emily nailed that experience. And seeing her step into her sexuality and kink exploration after everything she’s been through was really beautiful to witness and watching her embrace this whole new part of herself was so freaking empowering!!
And don’t even get me started on Blair!! She’s so emotionally awkward but loyal to the core. The way she shows up for Grace, the way she learns to communicate better and be a safe space was really doing things to my heart.
And the kink? YES it was hot, we had a really well done dom/sub dynamic and with it a few other kinks like slight humiliation, degradation, praise, impact- play, a lot of teasing and of course a really hot face fitting scene!! And all this definitely had me kicking my feet, but what really got me was how emotional it was.
The kink here wasn’t just about the play—it was about connection, trust, letting go. Letting someone see you fully and hold that space with care. The way Blair gave Grace room to surrender and feel safe in her vulnerability? That’s what did me in. That emotional intimacy? That’s the real kink!!
This book was raw, tender, queer, and so real. One of those stories that lingers and makes you want to reread it just to live in that space again—even if it breaks your heart a little every time.
December 20, 2024
This is the most emotionally devastating smut I have ever read and I’m not kidding… This ripped my heart out of my chest and stomped on it. I’m actually going to cry
November 8, 2024
"Loving you is the easiest thing I've ever done."
Emily has, yet again, given us a beautiful story with incredibly related characters, strong women, supportive partners, and healing from trauma. I felt all the feels while reading this. I knew it would be a tear jerker but I didn't expect to be affected so strongly to Grace and Blair's story. And of course the spice was HOT. Amazing kink exploration.
Grace was so relatable and I felt so seen while reading her struggles with chronic pain. It's something I've dealt with every single day for years. And I knew exactly how Grace was feeling when her pain kept her from being able to do simple day to day tasks.
When we met Blair in Behold Her, I absolutely had a crush on her and wished I had someone like her in my life. Now? I am so in love. She was always there for Mona and Grace even when the affection made her uncomfortable. We all need a Blair. But I know if I met her in real life there is no way I'd be able to work up the courage to talk to her.
I hope we see more of Declan in future books. He's so sexy! And it was lovely seeing characters from previous books, too.
Emily has, yet again, given us a beautiful story with incredibly related characters, strong women, supportive partners, and healing from trauma. I felt all the feels while reading this. I knew it would be a tear jerker but I didn't expect to be affected so strongly to Grace and Blair's story. And of course the spice was HOT. Amazing kink exploration.
Grace was so relatable and I felt so seen while reading her struggles with chronic pain. It's something I've dealt with every single day for years. And I knew exactly how Grace was feeling when her pain kept her from being able to do simple day to day tasks.
When we met Blair in Behold Her, I absolutely had a crush on her and wished I had someone like her in my life. Now? I am so in love. She was always there for Mona and Grace even when the affection made her uncomfortable. We all need a Blair. But I know if I met her in real life there is no way I'd be able to work up the courage to talk to her.
I hope we see more of Declan in future books. He's so sexy! And it was lovely seeing characters from previous books, too.
April 30, 2025
no because I'm pissed off, actually. this was almost four stars. we were all rooting for you, tiffany
"I didn't want the characters to have a magical solution to--" 🤚🏻 shut up I don't care
"It's a realistic love story if--" 🤚🏻fuck off
"their love would be worth--" 🤚🏻didn't ask
fantasy stories by fantasy authors require fantasy solutions to solve for the HEA. I didn't sign up for a mortality dilemma.
"I didn't want the characters to have a magical solution to--" 🤚🏻 shut up I don't care
"It's a realistic love story if--" 🤚🏻fuck off
"their love would be worth--" 🤚🏻didn't ask
fantasy stories by fantasy authors require fantasy solutions to solve for the HEA. I didn't sign up for a mortality dilemma.
November 3, 2024
This book had me sobbing so. Damn. Much. Grace was such a relatable character for me personally because I figured out I was queer when I was 29 (thank you oppressive childhood) and deal with chronic pain and coming to terms with being disabled. Grace’s personal journey was just as compelling as her love story. She had love and support, but earned her self acceptance. Blair was so closed off but so protective of those she cared about. Even when she struggled to give and receive hugs, she still would drop anything to help Mona or Grace. The kink exploration was sweet and Grace and Blair’s relationship was the stuff of fairytales.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: chronic pain, grief and loss, sex work (voluntary), religious trauma, trauma and shame from past relationships, references to homophobic parents, brief depictions of dubcon and sexual trauma from past partners, mentions of past violence including accidental manslaughter, mentions of past partner cheating, mentions of fat phobia, blood play
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: chronic pain, grief and loss, sex work (voluntary), religious trauma, trauma and shame from past relationships, references to homophobic parents, brief depictions of dubcon and sexual trauma from past partners, mentions of past violence including accidental manslaughter, mentions of past partner cheating, mentions of fat phobia, blood play
April 2, 2025
Grace is sunshine, and she makes me burn.
Maybe more of a 3.25? I kind of went on a bit of a rollercoaster ride with this one. I didn't always love the writing, and there were a few things about the character development and their backstories that I found a bit irksome. Also, in the latter half of the book, I thought it was going in a certain direction that would have pissed me off. But happily, it didn't. I loved the way this ended, and I really liked these characters and their romance. This is just one of those cases where a book has a wonderful premise, but the execution doesn't really live up to that premise. And what you have in the end is a really solid book, but one that I know I could have loved if written differently.
Grace is a divorcee with chronic pain, still recovering from her ex husband's emotional mistreatment, and looking to dip her toes into kink. Blair is a vampire domme with demons in her past, emotionally closed off to all but a few people. They've been friends for a few months, and Blair has had a bit of an infatuation, but she thinks that Grace is straight. And when Grace's first foray into kink goes kind of poorly, Blair steps in to give her lessons and guide her. What was supposed to be platonic quickly turns into something more, and they start exploring a relationship together. Great premise; I LOVE guidance and kink lessons like this. There were a few things about the writing that really held me back from liking it in the beginning, like I said before, but they're pretty minor and don't bear mentioning. I will say, this is described as a slow burn, and as always... I think it shoulda been slower! The author builds up a certain amount of delicious tension, and there's a bit of a misunderstanding as each woman thinks the other isn't interested, but they're each feeling that mounting attraction... I wanted to keep that tension building a little while longer. Not TOO long, but just a few more chapters before things started getting sexual, or before they acknowledged their romantic feelings, would have been nice. We're meant to feel like they've built a strong connection, but there are certain things we never really see them talking about together. Most notably, both their pasts with abusive partners. I didn't exactly want detailed descriptions of their pain on page, but I expected them to bond more over certain things. Their connection just didn't feel that deep to me. Which was unfortunate, because I do think it had a great foundation.
But I mean, the book did excel in other ways. It's really sexy, and swoony, and I loved the way they took care of each other. Especially Blair, and the ways she found to cater for Grace's chronic pain and neck issues. Every single biting scene was immaculate. ME NEXT. The third act breakup made me a little impatient, but it wasn't the worst I've read. I'm mostly really relieved, because as with any vampire romance, this has some lifespan angst, and there are only a few ways to deal with that. My LEAST favourite way is reversibly vampirism (i.e. the vampire character finds some way to turn human again) and for a while, I was scared the book was heading in that direction. That would have definitely brought the rating down for me; I think reversible vampirism is the biggest copout in the world and we should ban it from the genre. Thankfully, it didn't go that way. I really like the way the author chose to deal with it in the end. My heart!
(I will say though, it felt like the last 15 percent was just one drawn out epilogue, and I wasn't a fan of that, lol. I felt like we could have wrapped up sooner.)
I feel like I should probably have more to say, but I can't think of anything. I did really like this. Medium burn, toaster oven, plus size rep, disability rep... all things I love. While this wasn't a favourite, I'd def. read from the author again.
Content warnings:
If she’ll let me, I’ll give her everything. I’ll let her drain my heart dry.
November 19, 2024
Honest review in exchange for an ARC - thanks for having me on the team!
God I loved this book! It had a perfect blend of spice (🥵🥵🥵), yearning, vulnerability, drama and love. It made me laugh, it made me cry and it definitely made me hot under the collar!
The relationship between Grace and Blair was so beautifully written with their vulnerability, love and concerns coming across so authentically. I was so invested in their story, their explorations and their love and really liked how the ending was handled which felt so true to these characters and their story.
As someone who lived with chronic pain I felt so seen with Grace's struggles, her frustration, her grief and her temptation to put in a brave face and hide all of those from those around her. It was really well written so kudos to the author!
Loved the dual perspectives and the writing style and would love to read more sapphic stories in this universe! 👀👀👀
God I loved this book! It had a perfect blend of spice (🥵🥵🥵), yearning, vulnerability, drama and love. It made me laugh, it made me cry and it definitely made me hot under the collar!
The relationship between Grace and Blair was so beautifully written with their vulnerability, love and concerns coming across so authentically. I was so invested in their story, their explorations and their love and really liked how the ending was handled which felt so true to these characters and their story.
As someone who lived with chronic pain I felt so seen with Grace's struggles, her frustration, her grief and her temptation to put in a brave face and hide all of those from those around her. It was really well written so kudos to the author!
Loved the dual perspectives and the writing style and would love to read more sapphic stories in this universe! 👀👀👀
November 12, 2024
I would give this a million stars if I could. Everything I could ever want and expect from an Emily Antoinette book. Always cozy, always emotional, always spicy! I loved Blair and Grace so so so much 🥺 Their story was fantastic! Friend you got me with that epilogue though 😫
Read if you love:
▫️ Vampire x human
▫️ Kink lessons
▫️ Mutual pining
▫️ Healing blood
▫️ Chronic pain rep
Genre/type: Sapphic Vampire Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐���⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or standalone: Monsters of Moonvale book 2
Tropes or themes: Romance, Spicy, Kink Lessons, Sapphic, Monster Community, Found Family, Chronic Pain Rep, Mental Health Rep, LGBTQA+, Mutual Pining, Vampire x Human, Angst
Read if you love:
▫️ Vampire x human
▫️ Kink lessons
▫️ Mutual pining
▫️ Healing blood
▫️ Chronic pain rep
Genre/type: Sapphic Vampire Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐���⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or standalone: Monsters of Moonvale book 2
Tropes or themes: Romance, Spicy, Kink Lessons, Sapphic, Monster Community, Found Family, Chronic Pain Rep, Mental Health Rep, LGBTQA+, Mutual Pining, Vampire x Human, Angst
November 7, 2024
ARC review of Afterglow (Monsters of Moonvale book two) by Emily Antoinette.
🌶️5/5
⭐️5/5
Afterglow is a spicy, slow burn sapphic monster romance featuring a jaded, lonely vampire FMC and a bubbly, anxious human FMC.
Featuring:
👩🏽❤️💋👩🏽 Sapphic spicy romance
🧛🏽♀️Vampire x human 👩🏽❤️💋👩🏽👩🏽❤️💋👨🏽 BI awakening 👩🏽🤝👩🏼Mutual pining 🛑Disability & chronic pain rep
🪢 K!nk & 🐝 DSM lessons ✏️Unlearning comphet 🩸Healing blood & blood play
🥀Sex work, voluntary, paid
🔗Dom x sub dynamic
🙎🏽♀️Mention of emotional and verbal abuse from previous relationships, emotional trauma related to previous relationships.
I am absolutely gushing at this novel. It had me swooning over Blair’s dominant side and living vicariously through Grace’s experiences. Blair’s patience when Grace is exploring and discovering new Kinks is profound and shows the bond of trust and love between them. I could not put this down and lapped up every moment with these characters and was able to easily visualise scenes with the dramatic and excellent writing. Thankyou Emily for producing such a heartfelt sapphic novel. *All artwork, cover art and images in the post above is credited to @emilyantoinettebooks Instagram and the amazing creators of the art*
🌶️5/5
⭐️5/5
Afterglow is a spicy, slow burn sapphic monster romance featuring a jaded, lonely vampire FMC and a bubbly, anxious human FMC.
Featuring:
👩🏽❤️💋👩🏽 Sapphic spicy romance
🧛🏽♀️Vampire x human 👩🏽❤️💋👩🏽👩🏽❤️💋👨🏽 BI awakening 👩🏽🤝👩🏼Mutual pining 🛑Disability & chronic pain rep
🪢 K!nk & 🐝 DSM lessons ✏️Unlearning comphet 🩸Healing blood & blood play
🥀Sex work, voluntary, paid
🔗Dom x sub dynamic
🙎🏽♀️Mention of emotional and verbal abuse from previous relationships, emotional trauma related to previous relationships.
I am absolutely gushing at this novel. It had me swooning over Blair’s dominant side and living vicariously through Grace’s experiences. Blair’s patience when Grace is exploring and discovering new Kinks is profound and shows the bond of trust and love between them. I could not put this down and lapped up every moment with these characters and was able to easily visualise scenes with the dramatic and excellent writing. Thankyou Emily for producing such a heartfelt sapphic novel. *All artwork, cover art and images in the post above is credited to @emilyantoinettebooks Instagram and the amazing creators of the art*
November 16, 2024
I've waited so long for this book, I was almost scared to read it but it was everything I could have hoped for. This was SUCH a good story. Grace suffers from chronic pain but she hasn't been open with her friends about it so she's suffering alone. Recently divorced and looking to explore she and Blair decide to try a dom/sub dynamic. Grace also has always considered herself hetero so her discovering this whole new side of herself and her sexuality was incredible. I loved the kink exploration and how safe they were with each other. There is so much more between Grace and Blair, they were friends first and there's always been a connection between them. I cried so much reading this, my heart. Aghhh. I loved how realistic the struggles they went through felt (like I know vampires aren't real, but the issues that Blair dealt with made sense and were handled realistically) but also the sexuality and the kink and the chronic pain and being real and vulnerable. Emily has once again written just the most incredible book. I plan to reread this again and again, even if I have to cry myself silly every time.
I could talk about this book all day.
100000/10
I could talk about this book all day.
100000/10
May 15, 2025
4.75
It's definitely the best so far.
Okay *drumroll* Grace and Blair.
Blairs storyline was insanity. Religious and abuse family. Washing a kid mouth out with soap is abuse.
Her "sire" sexually assaulted her. Let's call it what it is.
Then, she is one of the most powerful magical creatures, and being a black woman on top of it.
Going through so much to ensure she is not "weak enough" to ever hurt anyone again. Which put this barricade around her.
That POOR SWEET GIRL. Also, she's hot. lol
Grace, I didn't really like in Mona and Max's is story, but there is always more to someone that meets the eye.
Dealing with chronic pain, going through a divorce, a body change, self-esteem issues, made to feel as if you are frigid because of men... *hard side eye*. She always had to put on a brave face even when she wasn't well and dealing with work as well and her shitty boss ugh.
Them together amazing. I'm so glad Mona pushed Grace.
First of all, the spicy scenes... Holy.... Shit.
I mean, when it's done well, it's done well, my goodness.
Consent and safe words for both the domme and the submissive. Blair being able to read Grace and using things like orgasm denial, etc. I don't want to spoil it, but that was hot.
Aven was a dick for popping up and causing some drama between the couple, but Blair should've just heard Grace out. Let's say it together... miscommunication.
Overall, the book was done very well.
Highlights:
- Finding the reason why Blair chose Rose
- Blood Play (hot)
Ugh, the Bear, I think his name was Nic, a sweet, sweet man
- The first dom Grace was with also a sweet man but just a man unfortunately, but fortunately
I see why I got into sapphic books many moons ago, and this DEFINITELY calling me back.
It's definitely the best so far.
Okay *drumroll* Grace and Blair.
Blairs storyline was insanity. Religious and abuse family. Washing a kid mouth out with soap is abuse.
Her "sire" sexually assaulted her. Let's call it what it is.
Then, she is one of the most powerful magical creatures, and being a black woman on top of it.
Going through so much to ensure she is not "weak enough" to ever hurt anyone again. Which put this barricade around her.
That POOR SWEET GIRL. Also, she's hot. lol
Grace, I didn't really like in Mona and Max's is story, but there is always more to someone that meets the eye.
Dealing with chronic pain, going through a divorce, a body change, self-esteem issues, made to feel as if you are frigid because of men... *hard side eye*. She always had to put on a brave face even when she wasn't well and dealing with work as well and her shitty boss ugh.
Them together amazing. I'm so glad Mona pushed Grace.
First of all, the spicy scenes... Holy.... Shit.
I mean, when it's done well, it's done well, my goodness.
Consent and safe words for both the domme and the submissive. Blair being able to read Grace and using things like orgasm denial, etc. I don't want to spoil it, but that was hot.
Aven was a dick for popping up and causing some drama between the couple, but Blair should've just heard Grace out. Let's say it together... miscommunication.
Overall, the book was done very well.
Highlights:
- Finding the reason why Blair chose Rose
- Blood Play (hot)
Ugh, the Bear, I think his name was Nic, a sweet, sweet man
- The first dom Grace was with also a sweet man but just a man unfortunately, but fortunately
I see why I got into sapphic books many moons ago, and this DEFINITELY calling me back.
Read
August 22, 2025This is my first FF story that I’ve read. Overall I thought it was a cute book. The mc’s were besotted with each other, and I found it interesting reading about The Vault.
Per usual, this has been read out of order on my part. I don’t feel like it impacted my experience to do so.
A few things that I wasn’t fond of. The main one being one of the mc’s breaking up with the other due to an outside friend’s influence. It just makes the character look weak to me. She knew her fae friend was trifling, yet she let them color her perception so quickly. I’m just not fond of that reason for a third act breakup at all.
I also expected more spice that wasn’t scene related. I don’t want to yuk people’s yum, and I knew the D/s element was going to be there and it’s not my thing, but still would have liked more development outside of that, especially since this was Grace’s sexual awakening.
One last thing: yes, I’m gonna say it: I didn’t like the decision they made of Blair not turning Grace into a vampire too. Yes, yes, I know many readers prefer couples with life-expectancy differences to stay as they are (vampires, cyborgs, androids, fae, etc) and I’m sorry but I don’t like bittersweet endings. Thank goodness this book didn’t include Grace’s death in the epilogue like so many other authors do. I hate crying. I read for the good feels. That’s me. Is it more ‘realistic’ for such endings? Yes. But I don’t like it.
This is the second book I’ve read by the author. The writing is pretty decent. I think it’s cool that as a bi author, she writes all sorts of relationship dynamics, but they don’t feel token or fetish-like. It’s just stories about different people being themselves, and I respect that.
Per usual, this has been read out of order on my part. I don’t feel like it impacted my experience to do so.
A few things that I wasn’t fond of. The main one being one of the mc’s breaking up with the other due to an outside friend’s influence. It just makes the character look weak to me. She knew her fae friend was trifling, yet she let them color her perception so quickly. I’m just not fond of that reason for a third act breakup at all.
I also expected more spice that wasn’t scene related. I don’t want to yuk people’s yum, and I knew the D/s element was going to be there and it’s not my thing, but still would have liked more development outside of that, especially since this was Grace’s sexual awakening.
One last thing: yes, I’m gonna say it: I didn’t like the decision they made of Blair not turning Grace into a vampire too. Yes, yes, I know many readers prefer couples with life-expectancy differences to stay as they are (vampires, cyborgs, androids, fae, etc) and I’m sorry but I don’t like bittersweet endings. Thank goodness this book didn’t include Grace’s death in the epilogue like so many other authors do. I hate crying. I read for the good feels. That’s me. Is it more ‘realistic’ for such endings? Yes. But I don’t like it.
This is the second book I’ve read by the author. The writing is pretty decent. I think it’s cool that as a bi author, she writes all sorts of relationship dynamics, but they don’t feel token or fetish-like. It’s just stories about different people being themselves, and I respect that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
This beautiful smutty book had NO right to make me cry as hard as I did. No notes, 10/10 recommended and will be one of my comfort books moving forward.
March 9, 2025
Oh my goodness! My heart ❤️❤️❤️ this is so cute and perfect and fills my little queer heart with joy. Smutt 5 stars, plot 5 stars, yearning vampire, bdsm, gothic and sunshine ahhhh so cute 🥰🥰🥰. Someone needs to read this so I can yap with them about it
November 23, 2024
When I saw Emily was writing a sapphic vampire/human romance, I knew I had to jump at the opportunity to read it.
Boy was it so much more than I expected.
Grace, beautiful, lovable Grace. If I ever pictured myself with a girlfriend, she’d be goals.
Blair, dark mysterious Blair. I’ve never seen someone so similar to my mindset when it comes to emotional expression and anxiety.
Emily writes so beautifully and realistically even when her characters are out of this world.
If I could give this infinity stars, I would.
Boy was it so much more than I expected.
Grace, beautiful, lovable Grace. If I ever pictured myself with a girlfriend, she’d be goals.
Blair, dark mysterious Blair. I’ve never seen someone so similar to my mindset when it comes to emotional expression and anxiety.
Emily writes so beautifully and realistically even when her characters are out of this world.
If I could give this infinity stars, I would.
November 19, 2024
4/5 🌶️
Afterglow is the first sapphic book I have read. At first I was apprehensive since it isn’t in my typical realm of romance, but gosh did I love it. A budding romance between Blaire, a vampire domme, and Grace, a curvy chronic pain warrior. How could I not love it?
Emily has a way of writing characters that I just relate to, she even had me crying at a few parts. I love this little world she has created in the moonverse series. I hope there is more to come!
Afterglow is the first sapphic book I have read. At first I was apprehensive since it isn’t in my typical realm of romance, but gosh did I love it. A budding romance between Blaire, a vampire domme, and Grace, a curvy chronic pain warrior. How could I not love it?
Emily has a way of writing characters that I just relate to, she even had me crying at a few parts. I love this little world she has created in the moonverse series. I hope there is more to come!
January 6, 2025
3⭐️ Black vampire fmc? My dream! | tropes: friends to lovers, bdsm, angst | high steam | digital
"For all that Blair proclaims that she’s a predator, a monster that should be feared, all I see in her eyes is longing. An ache to be wanted. Hunger for affection. If she’ll let me, I’ll give her everything. I’ll let her drain my heart dry."
characters:
🩶 I loved Grace! I related to her feelings of rejection and dealing with Adhd and chronic pain on top of that. I really liked seeing her grow and become more confident in herself.
🩶 I loved Blair as well! She had a lot of internal struggles and I really sympathized with her.
"Living like this, without trying to control and restrain my emotions, is intoxicating. My blood might help Grace with her chronic pain, but she gives me life."
favorite bits:
🖤 I loved how much they really loved and yearned for each other. When they communicated and were vulnerable, their relationship was the best. Grace and Blair have been through so much separately that it makes you want them to be together even more because they truly deserve happiness together.
"Blair is safe. I trust her implicitly. Maybe with her I won’t have to battle fears that I’m not enough, because she’s already decided that I’m worthy of being her friend."
issues:
❌ Why is a man there? I understood it's importance to the plot and Grace's exploration but it lead me to keep hesitating getting through that part of the book.
❌ I felt that the pacing of this book was slow and the third act break-up was very predictable.
"For all that Blair proclaims that she’s a predator, a monster that should be feared, all I see in her eyes is longing. An ache to be wanted. Hunger for affection. If she’ll let me, I’ll give her everything. I’ll let her drain my heart dry."
characters:
🩶 I loved Grace! I related to her feelings of rejection and dealing with Adhd and chronic pain on top of that. I really liked seeing her grow and become more confident in herself.
🩶 I loved Blair as well! She had a lot of internal struggles and I really sympathized with her.
"Living like this, without trying to control and restrain my emotions, is intoxicating. My blood might help Grace with her chronic pain, but she gives me life."
favorite bits:
🖤 I loved how much they really loved and yearned for each other. When they communicated and were vulnerable, their relationship was the best. Grace and Blair have been through so much separately that it makes you want them to be together even more because they truly deserve happiness together.
"Blair is safe. I trust her implicitly. Maybe with her I won’t have to battle fears that I’m not enough, because she’s already decided that I’m worthy of being her friend."
issues:
❌ Why is a man there? I understood it's importance to the plot and Grace's exploration but it lead me to keep hesitating getting through that part of the book.
❌ I felt that the pacing of this book was slow and the third act break-up was very predictable.
November 19, 2024
In this book we meet Blair, a vampiress that has spent the last ten years, since she was turned, enjoying her freedom and becoming a sought after domme.
We also meet Grace, a lovely human who is one year post divorce from a horrid cheating husband. Unfortunately, our Grace also suffers from chronic pain which keeps her often canceling plans or working from home.
Grace and Blair are already friends, thanks to a mutual friend, but Blair has been keeping her distance for some months. Until One night Grace shows up, with their friend, at a specialty club Blair occasionally displays her skills at. While there Grace admits she’s ready to move on from her divorce and wants to explore her more submissive side. A confession that gets Blairs blood humming no matter how hard she tries to ignore it.
Afterburn, is a sweet and savory slow burn. The tension between our two ladies is so good you could use for a high wire act. When they do finally get together it is a five-alarm fire.
Somehow, despite having read almost 200 books this year this is my first sapphic romance, and I regret nothing. This was a great one. The writing was well done the story well executed and the details of the characters and side characters enjoyable.
Sometimes with these slow burn romances I feel like it draaaaaaaags and it’s not so much a build to the romance, as it is just like a jump scare. (which is always what makes me a little weary when going into one) This was a lovely simmer that built to a boil and never made me wonder when things were going to get moving, and kept me from putting the book down!
This is also part of connected, but stand-alone, series Monsters of Moonvale. We run into characters from two previous novels, and those from a third novel are mentioned. So while it isn’t necessary to have read the previous it is enjoyable to see them again and hear about them again.
Tropes: Vampires x Humans, friends to lovers, D/s, Sapphic romance, mutual pining, ANGST, Bondage & Impact Play, Healing Blood, Unlearning ComHet, and Biting
Content Warning: Throughout the book, there are references to chronic pain, queer identity and experiences, grief and loss, sex work, religious trauma, and trauma and shame from past relationships. For a full list of triggers please see the author’s website; https://emilyantoinette.com/afterglow
We also meet Grace, a lovely human who is one year post divorce from a horrid cheating husband. Unfortunately, our Grace also suffers from chronic pain which keeps her often canceling plans or working from home.
Grace and Blair are already friends, thanks to a mutual friend, but Blair has been keeping her distance for some months. Until One night Grace shows up, with their friend, at a specialty club Blair occasionally displays her skills at. While there Grace admits she’s ready to move on from her divorce and wants to explore her more submissive side. A confession that gets Blairs blood humming no matter how hard she tries to ignore it.
Afterburn, is a sweet and savory slow burn. The tension between our two ladies is so good you could use for a high wire act. When they do finally get together it is a five-alarm fire.
Somehow, despite having read almost 200 books this year this is my first sapphic romance, and I regret nothing. This was a great one. The writing was well done the story well executed and the details of the characters and side characters enjoyable.
Sometimes with these slow burn romances I feel like it draaaaaaaags and it’s not so much a build to the romance, as it is just like a jump scare. (which is always what makes me a little weary when going into one) This was a lovely simmer that built to a boil and never made me wonder when things were going to get moving, and kept me from putting the book down!
This is also part of connected, but stand-alone, series Monsters of Moonvale. We run into characters from two previous novels, and those from a third novel are mentioned. So while it isn’t necessary to have read the previous it is enjoyable to see them again and hear about them again.
Tropes: Vampires x Humans, friends to lovers, D/s, Sapphic romance, mutual pining, ANGST, Bondage & Impact Play, Healing Blood, Unlearning ComHet, and Biting
Content Warning: Throughout the book, there are references to chronic pain, queer identity and experiences, grief and loss, sex work, religious trauma, and trauma and shame from past relationships. For a full list of triggers please see the author’s website; https://emilyantoinette.com/afterglow
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing. Emily did such a great job with this one. Loved it from start to finish. It's a sapphic vampire x human steamy romance that stole my heart!
It follows Grace as she find herself back after a divorce but with her chronic pain acting up she finds it hard to go out. When one night she goes to the club with her best friend she runs into Blair. Blair is a vampire and a domme. So when Grace wants to explore her submission she asks Blair for help. It's a safe and platonic way for Grace to explore what she wants. Blair has trouble keeping her "monster" at bay and spending more time around Grace only seems to make it worse as her monster craves her.
I loved their relationship so much. It wasn't perfect as nothing ever is but they learned from each other and were better for it. Blair and Grace both had some issues to work through. And seeing them work through it to be better was amazing. The pov switched between them both and seeing them fall in love with each other without realising the other person is too was the cutest! I loved the steamy parts in this one too as it worked with Grace's chronic pain. They really took care of each other. So if you are looking for a steamy, sapphic, vampire x human, bi awakening, sub x dom romance this is one for you!
Thanks to Emily Antoinette for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It follows Grace as she find herself back after a divorce but with her chronic pain acting up she finds it hard to go out. When one night she goes to the club with her best friend she runs into Blair. Blair is a vampire and a domme. So when Grace wants to explore her submission she asks Blair for help. It's a safe and platonic way for Grace to explore what she wants. Blair has trouble keeping her "monster" at bay and spending more time around Grace only seems to make it worse as her monster craves her.
I loved their relationship so much. It wasn't perfect as nothing ever is but they learned from each other and were better for it. Blair and Grace both had some issues to work through. And seeing them work through it to be better was amazing. The pov switched between them both and seeing them fall in love with each other without realising the other person is too was the cutest! I loved the steamy parts in this one too as it worked with Grace's chronic pain. They really took care of each other. So if you are looking for a steamy, sapphic, vampire x human, bi awakening, sub x dom romance this is one for you!
Thanks to Emily Antoinette for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2024
“I’m not scared of falling into darkness again, because I’ll spend the rest of existence basking in her afterglow.”
Another EASY 6 star read from this author for me. When this ARC dropped into my kindle I literally dropped everything. I read it front to back in 4 hours and was LOSING MY MIND the entire time. It’s everything I was promised and more, yall. The disability rep? The pining? The self-discovery? The bi awakening? It was perfect. I laughed, I screamed, I swooned, I sobbed. Blair and Grace are my dream couple: it’s like Emily specifically wrote them for me 😂 Like, a bubbly, blonde, pink-loving, disabled ray of sunshine and her hot grouchy goth vampire gf with a tragic backstory and a deep willingness to go to therapy? Hell yes, sign me up immediately.
Some of the subject matter might be triggering; there were a few times that the weight of Blair and Grace’s histories knocked the breath out of me, so I definitely recommend checking the content warnings, but other than that I literally do not know a single adult who wouldn’t enjoy this book.
Afterglow releases TOMORROW (11/19), but you can still pre-order on Kindle now for a discount!
Major thanks to the author for sharing an advanced reading copy of this book with me. I was not compensated for this review in any way and receiving an arc holds no influence over my opinions. 💖
Another EASY 6 star read from this author for me. When this ARC dropped into my kindle I literally dropped everything. I read it front to back in 4 hours and was LOSING MY MIND the entire time. It’s everything I was promised and more, yall. The disability rep? The pining? The self-discovery? The bi awakening? It was perfect. I laughed, I screamed, I swooned, I sobbed. Blair and Grace are my dream couple: it’s like Emily specifically wrote them for me 😂 Like, a bubbly, blonde, pink-loving, disabled ray of sunshine and her hot grouchy goth vampire gf with a tragic backstory and a deep willingness to go to therapy? Hell yes, sign me up immediately.
Some of the subject matter might be triggering; there were a few times that the weight of Blair and Grace’s histories knocked the breath out of me, so I definitely recommend checking the content warnings, but other than that I literally do not know a single adult who wouldn’t enjoy this book.
Afterglow releases TOMORROW (11/19), but you can still pre-order on Kindle now for a discount!
Major thanks to the author for sharing an advanced reading copy of this book with me. I was not compensated for this review in any way and receiving an arc holds no influence over my opinions. 💖
November 10, 2024
"I'm not scared of falling into darkness again, because I'll spend the rest of my existence basking in the afterglow of her love"
Afterglow is a cozy sapphic monster romance full of pining, kink, and love. I SOBBED reading this book. Afterglow is full of warmth and care, between Blair and Grace and in how Emily has written this story. You will laugh, gasp, cry, and enjoy every single page.
One of my favorite things about Afterglow is how human these characters are. Grace and Blair are SO relatable. They each carry their pain and insecurities differently. We get to see their strengths, weaknesses, and how they uplift and hold each other. No matter who you are or how you identify, I think you will find yourself in Grace and/or Blair. It will pull at your heart strings, leaving you tearful, yet so full of love and hope.
Let's talk about the kink baby! I LOVE the exploration of it between dommy mommy Blair and sweet submissive Grace. Blair is so very gentle and caring with Grace, constantly getting consent and checking on Grace's pain from her chronic illness before/after every scene. Grace experiences her bisexual awakening through her developing relationship with Blair and honestly...you may too!
I appreciate the diversity in all of Emily's books. There is plus-size representation, chronic pain representation, racial diversity, and a wide range of monsters and sexual orientations. We get a bit of a glimpse into the tastes of a few other couples featured in Emily's other books Escaping the Friendzone, Love Lights, and Behold Her. While you don't have to read these to enjoy Afterglow, I would recommend reading Behold Her because Mona and Max play important secondary roles within this book and understanding their relationship provides a bit more context and excitement.
Thank you so much Emily for gifting me an ARC! It is always a joy to read your work and I'm honored to be on your street team.
Afterglow is a cozy sapphic monster romance full of pining, kink, and love. I SOBBED reading this book. Afterglow is full of warmth and care, between Blair and Grace and in how Emily has written this story. You will laugh, gasp, cry, and enjoy every single page.
One of my favorite things about Afterglow is how human these characters are. Grace and Blair are SO relatable. They each carry their pain and insecurities differently. We get to see their strengths, weaknesses, and how they uplift and hold each other. No matter who you are or how you identify, I think you will find yourself in Grace and/or Blair. It will pull at your heart strings, leaving you tearful, yet so full of love and hope.
Let's talk about the kink baby! I LOVE the exploration of it between dommy mommy Blair and sweet submissive Grace. Blair is so very gentle and caring with Grace, constantly getting consent and checking on Grace's pain from her chronic illness before/after every scene. Grace experiences her bisexual awakening through her developing relationship with Blair and honestly...you may too!
I appreciate the diversity in all of Emily's books. There is plus-size representation, chronic pain representation, racial diversity, and a wide range of monsters and sexual orientations. We get a bit of a glimpse into the tastes of a few other couples featured in Emily's other books Escaping the Friendzone, Love Lights, and Behold Her. While you don't have to read these to enjoy Afterglow, I would recommend reading Behold Her because Mona and Max play important secondary roles within this book and understanding their relationship provides a bit more context and excitement.
Thank you so much Emily for gifting me an ARC! It is always a joy to read your work and I'm honored to be on your street team.
November 19, 2024
I’ve been eagerly anticipating this release, and it did not disappoint! Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and the sapphic pining in this story was chef’s kiss. It’s perfect for anyone who figured out their sexuality later in life—a beautiful celebration of queer love, plus-size representation, chronic pain representation, vampire angst, and the bittersweet complexities of loving someone you might lose.
Blaire’s haunted past and Grace’s personal journey intertwined so beautifully, making you root for them as they navigated it all. The spice? Kinky yet brimming with warm fuzzies—because as Emily Antoinette knows so well, cozy love paired with spicy kink is a match made in heaven.
It was such a treat to see familiar faces from other Monsters of Moonvale stories. Their appearances enriched the world and made me even more excited for future tales from this cast of characters. There’s some hefty emotional work Blaire and Grace go through that got me a little teary (no spoilers) and solidified my love for this book.
All in all, this is such a fantastic spicy sapphic read—equal parts heartwarming and satisfying.
Blaire’s haunted past and Grace’s personal journey intertwined so beautifully, making you root for them as they navigated it all. The spice? Kinky yet brimming with warm fuzzies—because as Emily Antoinette knows so well, cozy love paired with spicy kink is a match made in heaven.
It was such a treat to see familiar faces from other Monsters of Moonvale stories. Their appearances enriched the world and made me even more excited for future tales from this cast of characters. There’s some hefty emotional work Blaire and Grace go through that got me a little teary (no spoilers) and solidified my love for this book.
All in all, this is such a fantastic spicy sapphic read—equal parts heartwarming and satisfying.
November 15, 2025
I was so curious about grace and blair since Mona and Max's story.
Blair had past trauma and never deserved that at all . I love how she loves to be called Mona bestfriend its adorable, and Mona loves her as much . That's a beautiful friendship .
Blair thought she was a monster and didn't deserve to find happiness she was wrong cause she absolutely deserved happiness & more .
Grace, i loved her character since she represented chronic illness, which i related to that part. The pain can be so painful but not wanting to be a burden to anyone else .
The way her crush on Blair was hard to deny, and Blair wanted grace so badly but didn't think she would want a woman .
Grace is perfect at being submissive. it's adorable and sexy.
Blair, omg, she is domme. I can't deny that is what caught my attention a lot cause the way she could observe and know by experiencing what exactly grace needed in those moments, and she felt safe with Blair.
Blair is so incredibly sexy and the dominance in her aura and just her overall has me hooked, especially when she said this .
“You love eating this pussy, don’t you? You want me to soak your pretty face.”
Blair had past trauma and never deserved that at all . I love how she loves to be called Mona bestfriend its adorable, and Mona loves her as much . That's a beautiful friendship .
Blair thought she was a monster and didn't deserve to find happiness she was wrong cause she absolutely deserved happiness & more .
Grace, i loved her character since she represented chronic illness, which i related to that part. The pain can be so painful but not wanting to be a burden to anyone else .
The way her crush on Blair was hard to deny, and Blair wanted grace so badly but didn't think she would want a woman .
Grace is perfect at being submissive. it's adorable and sexy.
Blair, omg, she is domme. I can't deny that is what caught my attention a lot cause the way she could observe and know by experiencing what exactly grace needed in those moments, and she felt safe with Blair.
Blair is so incredibly sexy and the dominance in her aura and just her overall has me hooked, especially when she said this .
“You love eating this pussy, don’t you? You want me to soak your pretty face.”
November 15, 2024
Afterglow by Emily Antoinette is a beautifully crafted, spicy, sapphic romance that offers so much more than just steamy moments. Packed with heartfelt representation—from chronic pain and plus-sized characters to sex positivity and sapphic love—this book is a masterclass in blending romance, spice, and profound emotional depth.
The story centers around Grace and Blair, two characters who are as distinct as they are compelling. Grace’s journey of rediscovering herself after heartbreak is tenderly written, showcasing her growing confidence and self-acceptance. Blair, a stoic and guarded vampire, is equally fascinating, and her thawing emotions and vulnerability add layers of depth to the narrative. Their chemistry is palpable, and their relationship blossoms in a way that feels natural, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying.
The pacing of the plot is perfectly executed, with no part of the story feeling rushed or drawn out. The epilogue, written as a passage of time, was especially lovely—it offered a beautiful glimpse into their continued growth and happiness. The spice in Afterglow deserves a special mention: it’s phenomenally written, hot as hell, and seamlessly woven into the story in a way that feels both meaningful and relevant to the characters’ relationship.
This book isn’t just about romance and steam—it’s also packed with emotional moments that hit hard. Grace and Blair’s individual struggles and growth are handled with care, creating a story that’s as cozy and romantic as it is profound and moving. I cried, I laughed, and I couldn’t put it down.
Afterglow is a standout in the spicy monster romance genre, combining representation, emotional depth, and swoon-worthy romance in a way that feels fresh and impactful. It’s cozy, steamy, and beautifully written—a must-read for fans of sapphic romances that pack both spice and heart.
Thank you to Emily Antoinette for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
The story centers around Grace and Blair, two characters who are as distinct as they are compelling. Grace’s journey of rediscovering herself after heartbreak is tenderly written, showcasing her growing confidence and self-acceptance. Blair, a stoic and guarded vampire, is equally fascinating, and her thawing emotions and vulnerability add layers of depth to the narrative. Their chemistry is palpable, and their relationship blossoms in a way that feels natural, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying.
The pacing of the plot is perfectly executed, with no part of the story feeling rushed or drawn out. The epilogue, written as a passage of time, was especially lovely—it offered a beautiful glimpse into their continued growth and happiness. The spice in Afterglow deserves a special mention: it’s phenomenally written, hot as hell, and seamlessly woven into the story in a way that feels both meaningful and relevant to the characters’ relationship.
This book isn’t just about romance and steam—it’s also packed with emotional moments that hit hard. Grace and Blair’s individual struggles and growth are handled with care, creating a story that’s as cozy and romantic as it is profound and moving. I cried, I laughed, and I couldn’t put it down.
Afterglow is a standout in the spicy monster romance genre, combining representation, emotional depth, and swoon-worthy romance in a way that feels fresh and impactful. It’s cozy, steamy, and beautifully written—a must-read for fans of sapphic romances that pack both spice and heart.
Thank you to Emily Antoinette for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 15, 2024
Afterglow is the third full length book in the Monsters of Moonvale series by Emily Antionette. It’s a spicy FF monster romance between a vampire, Blair & a plus size human, Grace. They have a domme/sub dynamic. Emily’s writing style is fast paced & fun, with great banter & great friendships. However, I gave this book 3 stars because I feel like every time I turned the page Grace was complaining about herself & how “pathetic she was” & it just got kind of old. Spoiler: there is a third act break up & I also didn’t care for the secondary character Samantha, who came end right at the end out as a way of getting Grace & Blair back together. Felt there could have been a better way for them to reconcile. The spice was about a 2 for me personally. It was my first FF book & it just felt like there wasn’t “enough” spice. But overall, Emily is a great author & if you’re into monster & alien romance, you should definitely check her out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2025
A-bit slow at the beginning but once you get to about 20% it assumes a nice pace and I breeze through. I enjoyed the characters and their romance. The third act break up was realistic for the two characters and I enjoyed Grace finding her own through the story and Blair letting Grace in and becoming more open.
I really enjoyed seeing all the characters from the series and the friendship dynamic.
I even got emotional at the third act climax.
I really appreciate the work and research done into kink and BDSM and found that the author took care in representing the lifestyle in the correct way.
I found the writting style to be comfortable to read however their are at times with this author for her work and paragraphs to become very information dumpy. Which can distract or disengage the reader. The information dumps dot. Feel very integrated into the story and can break up the flow.
Overall I really enjoyed this book.
I really enjoyed seeing all the characters from the series and the friendship dynamic.
I even got emotional at the third act climax.
I really appreciate the work and research done into kink and BDSM and found that the author took care in representing the lifestyle in the correct way.
I found the writting style to be comfortable to read however their are at times with this author for her work and paragraphs to become very information dumpy. Which can distract or disengage the reader. The information dumps dot. Feel very integrated into the story and can break up the flow.
Overall I really enjoyed this book.
November 19, 2024
I have always enjoyed Emily's books. She writes beautiful slow burn and pining with her characters. Then I read afterglow and did not expect the rollercoaster of emotions this book would bring. As I finished the book I had tears in my eyes with the beautiful and emotional rollercoaster she brought me through.
I love a good sapphic romance and was all in when I read the summary of Afterglow. Grace was a wonderful character and I always enjoy reading an FMC taking back her sense of self and exploring her sexuality after coming out of a toxic relationship. Enter Blair, a vampire domme and previous friend that had been recently distant. Blair and Grace had tension from the first interaction and the acceptance they both gave each other, even thought neither were willing to accept it. I loved the winding path they took to come together. They both needed to work through their own trauma which allowed them to fully accept the love and happiness they could bring to each other.
This book was beautifully paced and I couldn't put it down. I loved all the characters and the emotions it brought out. I will always love Emily's books but this will be a particular favourite for me.
Thank you Emily for the ARC of this beautiful book.
I love a good sapphic romance and was all in when I read the summary of Afterglow. Grace was a wonderful character and I always enjoy reading an FMC taking back her sense of self and exploring her sexuality after coming out of a toxic relationship. Enter Blair, a vampire domme and previous friend that had been recently distant. Blair and Grace had tension from the first interaction and the acceptance they both gave each other, even thought neither were willing to accept it. I loved the winding path they took to come together. They both needed to work through their own trauma which allowed them to fully accept the love and happiness they could bring to each other.
This book was beautifully paced and I couldn't put it down. I loved all the characters and the emotions it brought out. I will always love Emily's books but this will be a particular favourite for me.
Thank you Emily for the ARC of this beautiful book.
November 18, 2024
5⭐️3.5🌶️
Once again Emily gives us raw emotions, real struggles, passion and this couple’s own happily ever after. We met Blair and Grace in Behold Her as Mona ride or die friends and their chemistry and sexual tension could not be deny.
Grace struggles with chronic invisible conditions to others on a daily basis and this was depicted and portrayed so true and authentic in this read. Graces struggles with her physical and mental health was something that I really identify with.
Blairs past and her monstrous side has lead to hide herself and guard her soft side to the world. And Blairs attraction and raw desire for Grace has her running scare of her monster side.
I loved immersing myself in Grace’s journey of discovering her wants and needs and attraction to Blair. And Blair accepts that happiness might be temporary but the memories, moments and gifts from that life with someone you love will always glow and shine and provide the afterglow of life afterwards.
Emily is a great story teller, her POV is so engaging. Emily is an automatic read for me, all her series are top reads for me and I can’t wait for her next story from the Moonvale series.
Once again Emily gives us raw emotions, real struggles, passion and this couple’s own happily ever after. We met Blair and Grace in Behold Her as Mona ride or die friends and their chemistry and sexual tension could not be deny.
Grace struggles with chronic invisible conditions to others on a daily basis and this was depicted and portrayed so true and authentic in this read. Graces struggles with her physical and mental health was something that I really identify with.
Blairs past and her monstrous side has lead to hide herself and guard her soft side to the world. And Blairs attraction and raw desire for Grace has her running scare of her monster side.
I loved immersing myself in Grace’s journey of discovering her wants and needs and attraction to Blair. And Blair accepts that happiness might be temporary but the memories, moments and gifts from that life with someone you love will always glow and shine and provide the afterglow of life afterwards.
Emily is a great story teller, her POV is so engaging. Emily is an automatic read for me, all her series are top reads for me and I can’t wait for her next story from the Moonvale series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
Welp I'm obsessed!! This was the perfect steamy monster romance and it was not only body positive but I loved the dynamic and communication between FMCs. The fact G was able to self advocate for her needs without shame is everything and I'm so very glad that I read this book!
Emily has an enthralling writing style that captivates you right off the start. This can be read as a standalone but I'd recommend checking out book 1 first.
El's Scales:
⭐ | 4.5/5
🌶️ | 3 ~ the perfect balance!
I volunteered to be an ARC reader for this book and I'm leaving my own voluntary and honest review. Thank you!
Emily has an enthralling writing style that captivates you right off the start. This can be read as a standalone but I'd recommend checking out book 1 first.
El's Scales:
⭐ | 4.5/5
🌶️ | 3 ~ the perfect balance!
I volunteered to be an ARC reader for this book and I'm leaving my own voluntary and honest review. Thank you!
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