What do you think?
Rate this book
Nothing can keep me from her, not even the heavens themselves.
I've watched over countless humans from the shadows, a guardian angel sworn to protect them from afar. But when I laid eyes on Astoria, everything changed. Her captivating soul and heart of gold drew me in like no other.
As I sensed a dangerous stalker closing in on her, I knew I had to intervene, even if it meant breaking the sacred laws that bound me. I revealed myself to Astoria, knowing the risks, but unable to resist the pull of our forbidden love.
Now, with the council of angels looming over us, ready to enforce the ultimate punishment, I face an impossible choice: obey the rules and lose Astoria forever, or risk everything to keep her safe.
WHAT READERS CAN EXPECT: Only is a spicy guardian angel forbidden romance, following a male angel POV. This is a novella set in the Creature Cravings series, where every paranormal romance gets a happy ever after. Books in this series can be read in any order.
Full content guide is available on the author’s website as well as a bonus epilogue only available for newsletter subscribers.
As of mid-April 2024, Only has entered its second edition! This version of the story is expanded with new content and further character development.
I've watched over countless humans from the shadows, a guardian angel sworn to protect them from afar. But when I laid eyes on Astoria, everything changed. Her captivating soul and heart of gold drew me in like no other.
As I sensed a dangerous stalker closing in on her, I knew I had to intervene, even if it meant breaking the sacred laws that bound me. I revealed myself to Astoria, knowing the risks, but unable to resist the pull of our forbidden love.
Now, with the council of angels looming over us, ready to enforce the ultimate punishment, I face an impossible choice: obey the rules and lose Astoria forever, or risk everything to keep her safe.
WHAT READERS CAN EXPECT: Only is a spicy guardian angel forbidden romance, following a male angel POV. This is a novella set in the Creature Cravings series, where every paranormal romance gets a happy ever after. Books in this series can be read in any order.
Full content guide is available on the author’s website as well as a bonus epilogue only available for newsletter subscribers.
As of mid-April 2024, Only has entered its second edition! This version of the story is expanded with new content and further character development.
166 pages, Hardcover
First published July 25, 2022
62 people are currently reading
441 people want to read
About the author
Rachel H. Drake
7 books28 followersRachel H. Drake is a paranormal romance author with a side of cozy vibes. Follow on Instagram and TikTok @rachelhdrake for updates. The Creature Cravings series is being re-published as Lily Hills Creatures.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
January 7, 2024
Loved the Premise, Guardian Angel falls in love with the Girl Next Door, not happy with the outcome.
The story reminded me of the City of Angels and as a huge lover of the movie I was so excited to try this story out and was sadly disappointed.
It had so much potential but a lot of the book is information about the characters from other stories in this series (Ghost guy and the witch) and kept wondering if I should have read one of those books first.
The whole story is told from the MMCs POV who was super sweet.
The author put some thought into the rules for the Guardian Angel character but the world was very reminiscent of the City of Angels movie. A lot of little things still made no sense, which is usually not a big deal for short stories like this one, but is kind of annoying.
Mostly I got sick of reading about Willaim the ghost next door, and the witch cousin of the FMC both of whom are characters from different stories in this series. My takeaway from this super short read was that the author wrote it (and gave it away for free) mainly to promote other books in the series. I wish she would have put more effort into this book instead of constantly writing plugs about characters that we don't even meet in this book.
I'm disappointed, and my City of Angels fantasy is squashed.
The story reminded me of the City of Angels and as a huge lover of the movie I was so excited to try this story out and was sadly disappointed.
It had so much potential but a lot of the book is information about the characters from other stories in this series (Ghost guy and the witch) and kept wondering if I should have read one of those books first.
The whole story is told from the MMCs POV who was super sweet.
The author put some thought into the rules for the Guardian Angel character but the world was very reminiscent of the City of Angels movie. A lot of little things still made no sense, which is usually not a big deal for short stories like this one, but is kind of annoying.
Mostly I got sick of reading about Willaim the ghost next door, and the witch cousin of the FMC both of whom are characters from different stories in this series. My takeaway from this super short read was that the author wrote it (and gave it away for free) mainly to promote other books in the series. I wish she would have put more effort into this book instead of constantly writing plugs about characters that we don't even meet in this book.
I'm disappointed, and my City of Angels fantasy is squashed.
September 25, 2023
Cole is an Guardian Angel who falls in love with his charges neighbor. He reveals himself to her to let her know she is not alone. He also takes care of her stalker.
March 29, 2024
So far I think I enjoyed this instalment of the Creature Cravings the best. I really liked Cole and Astorias relationship. The books are fast paced running full force into that HEA. But it’s worth it. Who doesn’t love the idea of a Guardian Angel, and a gorgeous one at that. You’re a lucky lady Story. I feel like Rachel’s writing is getting stronger with each novella and I love it. Keep these beautiful paranormal love stories coming! Bite is next!
July 26, 2023
As a regular reader of Rachel's books, I was excited to find out she was writing a forbidden angel romance as part of her Creature Cravings series. As an ARC reader, I was doubly excited to find out I'd be one of the firsts to get my hands on it. And let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint!
In this short little story, we meet Cole, a guardian angel who is not assigned to a human woman named Astoria. But that doesn't stop him from choosing to guide her. And it certainly doesn't stop him from falling in love with her and choosing to break all the angel rules to protect her. This is definitely a forbidden romance that you won't be able to put down. I know I couldn't.
What I liked: The forbidden romance. Seriously, this is one of my favorite tropes. And once again, Rachel has taken one of my favorites and handled it in such a fun and unique way. I also really loved how she took the angel-human relationship and turned it on its head just a bit. So, if you're into having tropes you love done a bit differently, this book is for you!
What I didn't like: While I do like short stories the romance in this one started off really quick. I don't think it was a bad thing. I'm just more of a slow-burn romance lover than quick almost insta-love types. But for those of you who love that sort of thing, this one will be even more up your alley!
Rating & Recs: I'm giving this lovely book 5 out of 5 stars. It was beautifully written, the chemistry and smut were off the charts, and it's a fun quick read. I couldn't ask for more. I fully recommend this book to anyone looking for a one-sitting romance read who is into paranormal, monogamous relationships. It's definitely spicy and a great read for anyone looking for a "touch her and die" trope. This one holds so much in such a tiny package. So, go pick it up!
Favorite Line: "Don't talk about yourself like that. You are everything."
In this short little story, we meet Cole, a guardian angel who is not assigned to a human woman named Astoria. But that doesn't stop him from choosing to guide her. And it certainly doesn't stop him from falling in love with her and choosing to break all the angel rules to protect her. This is definitely a forbidden romance that you won't be able to put down. I know I couldn't.
What I liked: The forbidden romance. Seriously, this is one of my favorite tropes. And once again, Rachel has taken one of my favorites and handled it in such a fun and unique way. I also really loved how she took the angel-human relationship and turned it on its head just a bit. So, if you're into having tropes you love done a bit differently, this book is for you!
What I didn't like: While I do like short stories the romance in this one started off really quick. I don't think it was a bad thing. I'm just more of a slow-burn romance lover than quick almost insta-love types. But for those of you who love that sort of thing, this one will be even more up your alley!
Rating & Recs: I'm giving this lovely book 5 out of 5 stars. It was beautifully written, the chemistry and smut were off the charts, and it's a fun quick read. I couldn't ask for more. I fully recommend this book to anyone looking for a one-sitting romance read who is into paranormal, monogamous relationships. It's definitely spicy and a great read for anyone looking for a "touch her and die" trope. This one holds so much in such a tiny package. So, go pick it up!
Favorite Line: "Don't talk about yourself like that. You are everything."
April 17, 2024
***Note: The version I reviewed has been updated since the original release.***
Only, a paranomal, fantasy romance, is a novella set in Drake's Creature Cravings series. It features Cole and Astoria.
Cole is a guarding angel with no recollection of his human existence. His charge is a ghost (read Haunt). As Cole isn't really needed at the moment, his attention gets diverted to Astoria, who lives next door. She is a lovely person who lives a fairly solitary life. She is kindhearted and generous of spirit, but when she's alone, her depression and anxiety often take center stage. When Cole realizes that he isn't the only one watching her, he takes her on as an unofficial charge. Not only does he want to protect her, but he also wants to see her happy. If that means breaking the rules, then so be it.
I loved the forbidden romance element of this book. I also appreciated the dynamic between our main characters. While Cole is hundreds of years older than Astoria, he follows her lead; he is a very willing student. There could be a power dynamic at play given his abilities, but there is none. It makes this relationship all that more delicious.
Even if you don't read anything else from the series (even though you most definitely should!) I recommend picking up this short read and delving into this illicit and spicy love story with a guaranteed HEA.
Only, a paranomal, fantasy romance, is a novella set in Drake's Creature Cravings series. It features Cole and Astoria.
Cole is a guarding angel with no recollection of his human existence. His charge is a ghost (read Haunt). As Cole isn't really needed at the moment, his attention gets diverted to Astoria, who lives next door. She is a lovely person who lives a fairly solitary life. She is kindhearted and generous of spirit, but when she's alone, her depression and anxiety often take center stage. When Cole realizes that he isn't the only one watching her, he takes her on as an unofficial charge. Not only does he want to protect her, but he also wants to see her happy. If that means breaking the rules, then so be it.
I loved the forbidden romance element of this book. I also appreciated the dynamic between our main characters. While Cole is hundreds of years older than Astoria, he follows her lead; he is a very willing student. There could be a power dynamic at play given his abilities, but there is none. It makes this relationship all that more delicious.
Even if you don't read anything else from the series (even though you most definitely should!) I recommend picking up this short read and delving into this illicit and spicy love story with a guaranteed HEA.
October 2, 2024
I should have read the blurb 😖 There’s a character with a name I can’t stand, although it’s not the main character; I was worried it would be, and almost stopped reading after the first few pages.
——🖤——
A guardian angel, Cole, who falls in love with a human, Astoria. This is major cheeseballs. He calls her “Story,” which is such a weird nickname.
I did appreciate the fact that the MMC was the one who hadn’t slept with anyone before, as it’s usually the FMC.
But ugh, he’s in love with her after stalking her for 3 years, and only reveals himself after saving her from her human stalker?? The irony.
——🖤——
Halfway through, she mentions that she needs to get on the pill, but, uhm… he’s dead? Can you get pregnant by someone who’s technically dead? I’m so so confused.
Welp, she ended up getting pregnant, and living (happily ever after?) with her angel husband. Married, I’ll let you know, after 6 months of dating.
Cole can walk around visible to humans but needs to wear a trench coat to cover his wings. I can’t with this imagery 😂
——🖤——
A guardian angel, Cole, who falls in love with a human, Astoria. This is major cheeseballs. He calls her “Story,” which is such a weird nickname.
I did appreciate the fact that the MMC was the one who hadn’t slept with anyone before, as it’s usually the FMC.
But ugh, he’s in love with her after stalking her for 3 years, and only reveals himself after saving her from her human stalker?? The irony.
——🖤——
Halfway through, she mentions that she needs to get on the pill, but, uhm… he’s dead? Can you get pregnant by someone who’s technically dead? I’m so so confused.
Welp, she ended up getting pregnant, and living (happily ever after?) with her angel husband. Married, I’ll let you know, after 6 months of dating.
Cole can walk around visible to humans but needs to wear a trench coat to cover his wings. I can’t with this imagery 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2024
3-3.5 ⭐️
Wow, my first angel romance. That’s just another one off the list these days, I guess 😂 Vampires, werewolves, aliens, demons, and now angels. Even I’m afraid of what I might end up reading one of these days 👀🤣
I genuinely really enjoyed this little fast burn book. Romance? Sweet 💕
Spice? Hot ❤️🔥 but well balanced 🫶
Characters? Unique and engaging 🧚♀️🧙♀️
*SPOILER WARNING*
The only thing I get caught up on funnily enough is not how quickly they fall in love, but how quickly (and easily) Cole goes from literal baby boy of heaven to chill serial killer. It’s one thing to commit murder once on a spur of the moment situation to protect Astoria, but to become some vigilante mass murderer in a couple months with no issues??? Nah, I don’t buy it. Over years? Maybe, sure - I could see it, but only at a push. But not in the time span of a few weeks or even months of becoming an official rule breaker.
Wow, my first angel romance. That’s just another one off the list these days, I guess 😂 Vampires, werewolves, aliens, demons, and now angels. Even I’m afraid of what I might end up reading one of these days 👀🤣
I genuinely really enjoyed this little fast burn book. Romance? Sweet 💕
Spice? Hot ❤️🔥 but well balanced 🫶
Characters? Unique and engaging 🧚♀️🧙♀️
*SPOILER WARNING*
The only thing I get caught up on funnily enough is not how quickly they fall in love, but how quickly (and easily) Cole goes from literal baby boy of heaven to chill serial killer. It’s one thing to commit murder once on a spur of the moment situation to protect Astoria, but to become some vigilante mass murderer in a couple months with no issues??? Nah, I don’t buy it. Over years? Maybe, sure - I could see it, but only at a push. But not in the time span of a few weeks or even months of becoming an official rule breaker.
August 4, 2024
Note from the author: Only is now in its second edition!
If you ordered the book before April 11, 2024 - you have the original first edition.
Based on feedback from readers, the book went into a second edition with new editing and re-writes. The new second edition is over double in length, includes further character development, more focus on Astoria's anxiety, and backstory on Cole's life as an angel.
If you can, confirm which version of the book you have before reviewing. When reviewing the first edition, I recommend labeling that in the review, so readers can see the difference in the new and original version.
If you have the original and want to read the second edition, you'd need to re-buy the book or download it on Kindle Unlimited under its new second edition listing to receive it. Deleting your download and then re-downloading it, when you have the first edition, won't upgrade you to the new edition, since the book needed a new ISBN.
If you ordered the book before April 11, 2024 - you have the original first edition.
Based on feedback from readers, the book went into a second edition with new editing and re-writes. The new second edition is over double in length, includes further character development, more focus on Astoria's anxiety, and backstory on Cole's life as an angel.
If you can, confirm which version of the book you have before reviewing. When reviewing the first edition, I recommend labeling that in the review, so readers can see the difference in the new and original version.
If you have the original and want to read the second edition, you'd need to re-buy the book or download it on Kindle Unlimited under its new second edition listing to receive it. Deleting your download and then re-downloading it, when you have the first edition, won't upgrade you to the new edition, since the book needed a new ISBN.
July 22, 2023
Another fantastic addition to the series of delicious little snacks, Creature Cravings from Rachel H. Drake! Only is fantastic for those with a sweet tooth, and those who like their books sweet and spicy. 😉
I love that this book is so cute and has a different feel, with a virgin guardian angel MMC, and a FMC that feels so alone, moving through life without much direction. She is not his charge, but he watches out for her, regardless of his duty.
Guardian angels have rules the council has imposed upon them, and if they are broken there are major consequences. He will break all of the rules for her.
The Creature Cravings series is a series of interconnected stand-alones that are super satisfying HEAs. There is something for everyone in these books and I recommend reading the whole series!
I love that this book is so cute and has a different feel, with a virgin guardian angel MMC, and a FMC that feels so alone, moving through life without much direction. She is not his charge, but he watches out for her, regardless of his duty.
Guardian angels have rules the council has imposed upon them, and if they are broken there are major consequences. He will break all of the rules for her.
The Creature Cravings series is a series of interconnected stand-alones that are super satisfying HEAs. There is something for everyone in these books and I recommend reading the whole series!
August 3, 2023
“Loving her was inevitable.”
Cole and Astoria’s story is a feathered glide of curious hearts and fiery souls.
A darling afternoon read sure to leave readers with a mischievous grin and an urge to pick up another book in the Creature Cravings straight away! (can be read in any order!)
“I laughed and squeezed her tighter, fully aware of what a mess we were.” - I will just let your imagination run with that little quote. ❤️🔥
The author has stated ‘Only’, the e-book, will forever be free! Maybe this was Cole’s idea, such an angel move.
Cole and Astoria’s story is a feathered glide of curious hearts and fiery souls.
A darling afternoon read sure to leave readers with a mischievous grin and an urge to pick up another book in the Creature Cravings straight away! (can be read in any order!)
“I laughed and squeezed her tighter, fully aware of what a mess we were.” - I will just let your imagination run with that little quote. ❤️🔥
The author has stated ‘Only’, the e-book, will forever be free! Maybe this was Cole’s idea, such an angel move.
August 4, 2023
I loved this story so much! It came at a time when I needed it the most. I was in a reading slump and this popped me right out of it.
If you love a good love story between an angel a human this is a must read. Cole and Astoria are relationship goals. Who wouldn’t want someone to sacrifice everything to be with you? Also the spice… so good. I think what I loved most about the spice is Astoria is teaching Cole. Boy is he a fast learner. 😏
Quotes:
“Can I be yours? Will you keep my heart, Story?”
“Only because you look so good when you come screaming my name.”
Tropes:
✨forbidden romance
✨non experienced male
✨touch her and 💀
If you love a good love story between an angel a human this is a must read. Cole and Astoria are relationship goals. Who wouldn’t want someone to sacrifice everything to be with you? Also the spice… so good. I think what I loved most about the spice is Astoria is teaching Cole. Boy is he a fast learner. 😏
Quotes:
“Can I be yours? Will you keep my heart, Story?”
“Only because you look so good when you come screaming my name.”
Tropes:
✨forbidden romance
✨non experienced male
✨touch her and 💀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2023
2,5 stars★★☆
tropes:
▸forbidden romance
▸insta-love
▸touch her and d1e
the premise sounds good, but I found it weird when she's crying in a shower and suddenly an angel appears in her bathroom, and she just chats with him like nothing? how could she not be scared, screaming or acting like any other normal human being who encounters a stranger who suddenly speaks out of nowhere to her?
this book can be easily read in one sitting, I finished it like 10 minutes only because there's so many steamy scenes that I skipped. perfect for TBR fluffer and to reach your reading challenge goals.
tropes:
▸forbidden romance
▸insta-love
▸touch her and d1e
the premise sounds good, but I found it weird when she's crying in a shower and suddenly an angel appears in her bathroom, and she just chats with him like nothing? how could she not be scared, screaming or acting like any other normal human being who encounters a stranger who suddenly speaks out of nowhere to her?
this book can be easily read in one sitting, I finished it like 10 minutes only because there's so many steamy scenes that I skipped. perfect for TBR fluffer and to reach your reading challenge goals.
January 29, 2024
I love the concept and story, but there are a few things that just feel disconnected. She is not surprised at all to have an angel appear in her bathroom while she's showering and is not even a little bit upset about finding out he's watched her for 3 years. She loves him after one night with him. I think the story is rushed and a lot more time could have been spent with the characters to make plot development flow more smoothly. I love everything that is there, but it jumps to the next development too fast and ends quickly.
September 3, 2024
Only by @rachelhdrake was a really fun read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ it’s a novella about an ANGEL falling in love with someone that he was not assigned to guard. He was looking out for her for 3 years before he revealed himself to her. I really enjoyed this paranormal romance 🥰 I would be happy to read a full book by this author to see how she builds up the connection between the main characters. #stuffyourkindle #paranormalromanceseries #paranormalromancereaders #kindle #kindlebooks #romancebookstagrammers #romancestagram #reading #readmorebooks #reading #readersgonnaread
July 14, 2023
Can easily read this in one sitting, great for between reads, especially when you need as easy win of finishing a book.
It was hot, sweet and the best protector of them all, a guardian angel. Swoon.
I love how all the books are interconnected and see you can see previous characters (and maybe some new ones).
This book is a great introduction into the Creature Cravings series. Go check them out.
It was hot, sweet and the best protector of them all, a guardian angel. Swoon.
I love how all the books are interconnected and see you can see previous characters (and maybe some new ones).
This book is a great introduction into the Creature Cravings series. Go check them out.
July 17, 2023
The storyline had a lot if potential but I struggled with the language. It seemed at times like elements were over explained and other times not explained at all. I've read insta love before but to have a woman crying in a shower and an angel suddenly appear in her bathroom and she just chats with him like she's known him forever? It seemed rushed. If the storyline and conversation had been drawn out and the over explaining been less I would have enjoyed it much more.
April 15, 2024
Loved the idea of this book - Guardian Angel vs Human.
Cole is an angel in charged of guarding a ghost. However, when Cole meets his charges neighbor, Astorias - he can't help but want to protect her.
When Astorias finds her self being in trouble - he will do anything to protect her, even if he has to break the rules and risk being vanished forever.
*** This Review is done based on the new version of this book.
Cole is an angel in charged of guarding a ghost. However, when Cole meets his charges neighbor, Astorias - he can't help but want to protect her.
When Astorias finds her self being in trouble - he will do anything to protect her, even if he has to break the rules and risk being vanished forever.
*** This Review is done based on the new version of this book.
July 26, 2023
I enjoyed reading this paranormal romance, a different take on forbidden love.
It was interesting to read a male POV, and I loved it.
Cole and Astoria were definitely interesting characters. For this short Novella, we got a glimpse of an insta-love, touch her you die, kinks and magic.
Definitely recommend ✨️
It was interesting to read a male POV, and I loved it.
Cole and Astoria were definitely interesting characters. For this short Novella, we got a glimpse of an insta-love, touch her you die, kinks and magic.
Definitely recommend ✨️
August 1, 2023
I love this series the books are small and not as intimidating as some of the bigger fantasy/pnr books that are out there. I love reading these in between bigger books its almost like a reading vacation. I loved the characters, I loved the story, and I cannot wait to watch this world continue to expand and grow.
June 27, 2024
I enjoyed the writing style of this short story as well as the characters. My only issue with the story is its insta-love. There are literally zero pages before Astoria is in love with Cole. I get that this is more of a prequel/teaser for the rest of the series, but I actually enjoyed the characters, and I'm sad we didn't get to watch them fall in love.
August 20, 2023
I normally enjoy angel romance but I found this lacking in all aspects. It's was somewhat cute I guess. I actually found James and Rosie more interesting than the main characters and they were in say 5 pages max!
Easy read, took about 2 hours! And it was free.
Easy read, took about 2 hours! And it was free.
September 21, 2023
This book was so disappointing that I’m having a hard time explaining my thoughts without coming across as insulting, so I will only say that if you think a forbidden guardian angel romance sounds good, don’t read this one.
January 7, 2024
This was the first book I read in the Creature Craving series. I was hooked from the start. It made me want to read the whole series!! If you like paranormal couples (guardian angel + human), then you will love this spicy book!! I recommend looking over the kink warnings before reading, though.
February 12, 2024
This was an extremely short read coming in at just 72 pages. Definitely something to keep in mind if you've got a goal you're trying to reach!
We're lookin at
•Fast paced 👟
•Not too hot, not too cold, juuuuust right 🌶
•He's a guardian angel, she's human ✨️
•Instalove ❤️
We're lookin at
•Fast paced 👟
•Not too hot, not too cold, juuuuust right 🌶
•He's a guardian angel, she's human ✨️
•Instalove ❤️
April 12, 2024
Thank you so much Rachel for sending me the new version of this novella! While I didn't read the original story that was written, I really enjoyed this. I loved the characters and their romance. This was very steamy and such a great addition to this series.
June 30, 2024
This book was a disappointment. I had high hopes going in. It really caught my attention but the story fell through.
I kept pushing hoping it would get better. In my opinion, with some editing and rewriting it could be amazing, but it’s not there yet for me currently. The potential is for sure.
I kept pushing hoping it would get better. In my opinion, with some editing and rewriting it could be amazing, but it’s not there yet for me currently. The potential is for sure.
April 18, 2025
Cringe.
A cringy, silly plot that I had to force myself to read the last 55% of this short story. I think this may be some series, I don't know, I didn't look close enough to plan on reading anymore of these. If I was tossing down 🌶 I'd give it one.
A cringy, silly plot that I had to force myself to read the last 55% of this short story. I think this may be some series, I don't know, I didn't look close enough to plan on reading anymore of these. If I was tossing down 🌶 I'd give it one.
Want to read
July 31, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/31/2023)! 🎁
August 22, 2023
A really great book for being so short, which is great for my slow reading ADHD brain! Absolutely love the story line and how well it flows.
September 24, 2023
I love the cover, but the novella itself not really. Too much too fast happening to believe.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews