Heat & Hard Candies

Survival of the Mated #3

by Lola Glass

I was assigned to play in the Fae Bachelorette … so I wrote a letter to the Society asking to put me in Survival of the Mated instead.

That sounds crazy, doesn't it?

It feels kind of crazy.

But I've seen the guys on Survival. I know the guys on Survival.

And there's one I want as my mate.

So, I'm walking onto the island of my own free will.

I'll ally myself with the best candidate, and I'll play this game any way I have to… because if I have to take a mate, I'm taking the man I want.


*This is a fun, steamy standalone novella with a happily ever after!

Genres: Romance, Fae, Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal, Romantasy, Paranormal Romance

108 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 25, 2024

About the author

Hi, I’m Lola! I’m a book lover with a *slight* romance obsession. My books are all steamy romantic fantasy or paranormal romance, and there is always a happily ever after.

Stop by my Facebook group, Lola's Book Lovers, for updates, giveaways and other fun!

For a full list of my work, check out my website https://www.authorlolaglass.com/

Thanks for reading!
All the love,
Lola Glass <3

Reviews

[Maca · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first two books in this series were pretty good but WTF was this?! It was sloppy, boring mess.

[Bella · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite of the series, but I generally don’t prefer novellas. When I read the preview I was excited because I was hoping we’d get a hardcore survivor FMC who could play the game as well as the men. But she was even more obvious than the first two! Overall I’m happy to have read about this couple but don’t know if I’d read another of these unless there was a major plot shift.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5/3 Stars

Ultimately I went with three stars for Kyle.

I'll admit I wasn't all that motivated to read the final book in the series but for a lack of anything better to read at the time, and out of curiosity, I decided to give it a go.

While I agree with others that the length was disappointing for Kyles story, it is what it is. I understand that Lola didn't have a lot of inspiration for his story, as she explained in the author note, and while that is disappointing I'm glad he got his happy ending atleast.

I wasn't a fan of how Launa and Kyle get right to having sex on the day they meet. Truly, that felt super strange to me. Kyle I could mayyyybe believe being on board with that behavior, especially with being so close to fading and feeling miserable that none of the previous women weren't interested in him. But Launa? Hm, no. She was inexperienced, very much a virgin and quite nerdy and seemingly shy, and socially inept. Awkward was the word she used most frequently to describe herself and her own behavior. So, despite her already deciding that Kyle was the one she wanted (which good for you girlie pop!) it felt really out of place and out of character from the impression I had of her to just go right into her not just admitting to Kyle she already chose him but to have sex within like an hour of meeting him. I dunno, just weird for me 😆

I did love that Launa knew what she wanted and was determined to get him. I do wish we actually understood WHY she chose Kyle and was determined to pick him because I don't recall that ever being explained to us. They were quite an opposites attract type of couple too.

I do wish we could have seen Kyle fall for her gradually rather than it feeling almost instalove-ish. Nothing wrong with that tbh but considering how discouraged and resigned he was when this season of Survival began, it would have been more believable to see him be more resistant, even for a moment, to her claiming she wanted him. Maybe fight himself over feeling worthy of her and as he got to know her then we see him catch feelings for her. Because as much as I didn't want it to, it sort of felt like Kyle was just happy and grateful to be chosen. Regardless of him claiming she was worth waiting for, it just came across that way to me especially with all the talk of her saving his life. 🤷🏻‍♀️

I also kind of wished we hadn't even bothered with the game itself considering how rude and unfriendly Launa was to the rest of the men. It was a waste of time imo. She was so sure of Kyle and choosing him that she had sex with him within an hour of being alone with him. Like, damn girl why not just break the rules and either make him lose control enough to say the mating vows together and make it permanent or announce to everyone when you got back to the beach that you refused to play? Just hey fuck y'all I already chose my man and I'm not playing? 😂 I would have found that hilarious and Kyle did deserve to have someone break the rules for him. I mean I refuse to believe with how whiny the other FMCs were about not wanting a mate or to participate in the survival game that not even one would consider breaking the rules and refusing to play or claiming someone in a way, such as sealing a bond, that couldn't be undone to regain a sense of agency.

Because what would the society do? Nothing. I doubt they'd try to break the mated couple up or even not allow her near the man she wanted even without a bond in place. It would have made for some good drama.

Anyway, it wasn't a bad read but I already wasn't sold on the series trope/plot and so I'm not the best judge tbh. But it was still cute.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Heat & Hard Candies, the third installment of the Survival of the Mated series, Lola Glass delivers a delightful mix of steamy romance and fierce determination. The story centers around a bold protagonist who takes her fate into her own hands by opting out of the Fae Bachelorette and entering the thrilling and treacherous world of Survival of the Mated. This decision sets the stage for an exciting adventure, one that is as captivating as it is heartfelt.

What I loved most about this novella is the protagonist’s unwavering resolve to claim the mate she desires, showcasing her strength and independence. As she allies herself with the best candidate on the island, the stakes rise, and the tension becomes palpable. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and Glass masterfully intertwines humor and passion, making each encounter sizzle with anticipation. The playful banter and undeniable attraction keep the pages turning as the heroine navigates challenges in pursuit of love.

The vibrant setting of the island adds an enchanting backdrop to the unfolding drama, enhancing the whimsical yet intense nature of the competition. Glass crafts a world that feels both familiar and fantastical, immersing readers in the challenges and triumphs of the contestants.

As a fan of steamy standalone novellas, I appreciated how Heat & Hard Candies blends romance with a reality game show twist, creating a chaotic yet exhilarating atmosphere. The story wraps up with a satisfying happily ever after, leaving readers with a warm glow.

Overall, Heat & Hard Candies is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun, steamy escape filled with strong characters and captivating romance. Lola Glass has once again proven her knack for storytelling, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store next!.

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

[Lisa Ella · Rating 3 out of 5]

Heat & Hard Candies is the third and final installment in Lola Glass’s series, and it brings a fiery, passionate story to the forefront with Launa and Kyle. Kyle, a familiar and beloved character from the previous books, has helped the female contestants navigate the competition to end up with their ideal fae mate. But when the sixth season of the survival game arrives, he finds himself blindsided. Launa has set her sights on him, and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to win his heart.

The premise of Launa sending in a request to join the survival season specifically for Kyle is an exciting twist, and it sets up a romantic tension that’s both intense and heartwarming. Their chemistry is undeniable, and watching their relationship unfold is a real treat. Launa's determination besides her awkward nature at the start and Kyle’s growth, especially after seeing him play a different role in the first two books, adds depth and makes you root for them as a couple.

One of the best parts of this book is witnessing Kyle's evolution from book one to now. His transition from a helpful guide for others to finally facing his own romantic challenges is well executed and satisfying. Launa’s fierce determination to win him over makes her an admirable heroine, and their fiery connection is noticable on every page.

However, like the previous books, I found the ending somewhat rushed. Just when the story builds to a fever pitch, it seems to conclude too quickly, leaving me wanting more closure. Additionally, this book being only around 100 pages, compared to the 200 pages of the first two books felt a bit disappointing. I wished there had been more time to fully develop the plot and give Kyle and Launa’s story the depth it deserved.

Despite these small letdowns, Heat & Hard Candies is a fun, steamy conclusion to the series. If you’ve been following Kyle’s journey since the beginning, this book offers a satisfying glimpse of his romantic growth, even if it leaves you craving a bit more.

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

She goes in knowing who she wants

Another fantastically witty, romantic, page-turning read by Lola Glass; a novella with drama, brilliant characters, steamy chemistry, teamwork, great humor and spice💖. Set in a world where the fae are looking for a mate in a reality TV show (Survivor meets Batchelor, Fae style).

Launa has managed to get herself onto the sixth season of Survival, having originally been registered for Batchelorette. She's watched all the previous shows and knows who she wants as her mate and is going in with a plan to leave with him.

Kyle has become the Cupid in the previous seasons of the contest, having helped all the previous winners to get their mate. He knows the women find him irritating and he has no chance and this will be his last before he goes home to fade with his family around him. The past women have been beautiful but he can't believe it when he sees Launa and is in even more disbelief when she tells him she's on the island for him.

"You want me?" I demanded.
She nodded. "Get us to the end, and I'm yours."

Though they agree they want each other the game is still on and they will need to play it to be able to leave together.

A brilliant novella to finish the series, Kyle and Lana are so sweet together and it was lovely to see him get his girl after helping all the others.

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

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Launa had annoyed the Fae council into allowing her to be on the Survival’s sixth season as she had already decided whom she wanted to be with. I found her interaction with her former bodyguard, Alfredo, hilarious. It bothers me that there are so many fae males that are nearing their end on the show. However, all of the ones who are close to their end have found their mates, except for Kyle. During the first book, I found Kyle annoying, but he began to grow on me from the second book on. This is because he wasn’t competing for himself anymore, but helping others to find their true mate with the woman for the season. I found that very heroic. Seeing more about his sister, Kenna, I found her to be a bit scary. Some of the things that Launa wears- tshirt wise, I love, and I want one! Launa is totally innocent when it comes to being with a male. Kyle doesn’t believe her at first when she tells him that she chose him. Boy, does she prove it! Just wow. I needed my AC on high with how steamy they got. The book is romantic and fascinating, on how they handle the other males. I really enjoyed the book. Especially the aftermath of the show. Seeing Launa and Kyle with his family. Priceless. I loved it. Can’t wait to see who is next, since it was done out of order. We still need to see seasons 3, 4, and 5. Since we jumped from Erin to Launa.

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

[Dee]

Part of Survival of the Mated series each can be read as a standalone with our contestants trying to find their mate during a survival show. Kyle is our sexy navigator of previous contestants approaching the sixth season and let’s just say things do not go as smoothly as they have in the past because our female constant came to win his heart. Launa is sweet but a little different she wanted to join the show was to win Kyle she put that into request add her unique way of approaching things, her weirdness draws you in from the beginning and she means to get her guy. The magnetic pull between them is there from the beginning even if he isn’t yet ready to acknowledge and the more, he tries to play his usual role the stronger the pull between them grows but he still find it hard to believe she wants him considering what the things he has heard said about him will they make it to the end together, will they play the game to make it to the end, will he get his girl after watching so many other matches, and will they end with happiness?

[Katy Sebastian · Rating 5 out of 5]

the perfect cozy romance

I took me less than 3 days to read all of Survival of the Mated & honestly it was 2 days too long!!! I started reading this after another major romantasy release last month and I was looking for something easy and when I stumbled on this series (special shoutout to Kindle ‘recommended’ section!) and could not be happier with my pick! Survival of the Mated is an emotionally, competitive game show in is essence, but quickly the reader realizes that we are here for our mate. I for one am the biggest champion for chosen mates & the ‘game show’ atmosphere of this book does not disappoint. By the time I got to book 3 I was already sold on Kyle! He was one of my favs from boom 1 even though he didn’t stand a chance but I KNEW the author wouldn’t disappoint by giving us Kyle’s POV. He spent the entire series ensuring the other males found their mate and Getting to see him find his was the literal icing on the cake.

Getting Kyle’s story has made the wrap up of this series just perfect! I can not wait to read the rest of this authors books!

[Crissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was perfect and had everything I needed to make it a fantastic read. I don't want to give anything away because it is short but it's also steamy, sweet and funny. Launa is a woman that knows exactly who she wants from the Survival of the Mated Games, and she is determined to have him. I loved her character because she was not only determined, but she was also shy and sweet at times. Her focus never wavered from the person she wanted. The fae now known as the "cupid" for the previous seasons knows that he has a better chance of making a match than matching with someone, and he's accepted that. However, fate has other plans and it's not over until it's over. I absolutely loved the main characters together and loved the way their story played out. This novella is one that is worth reading and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books from this author.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Talk about a race to the finish! Heat and Hard Candies is a short and steamy novella where Kyle finally gets his HEA.
Launa has her heart set on Kyle after watching the previous seasons of Survival and when they finally meet, the attraction between them flares up like gasoline on a fire!
Although a satisfying ending to the series, it was a little too fast paced for me. I really would have liked to be able to get to know the characters better and for there to have been a bit more angst and uncertainty in the plot which had made the previous books so captivating. This one’s a good, bite-sized, read in one sitting story!

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

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Novella featuring Kyle, one of the least favorite fae with the females in the competition. This is his sixth appearance on the show and he will probably not be strong enough to participate in the future.

Launa was obsessed with Survival of the Mated and had compulsively watched the first five episodes numerous times. Unlike the previous females, she has set her sights on Kyle. She had to lobby the Society to let her be on the show instead of Bachelorette.

Kyle had been shot down so many times that he finds it hard to believe he is the object of Launa’s desire. Once he’s convinced they conspire to ensure that he wins her in the end. Most of the other players are on board with this idea, including the fae assigned as her bodyguard. HEA guaranteed.

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can’t lie, I didn’t love this one. This book was Kyle and Launa’s story. I’ve been rooting for Kyle for a while now since he’s such a good guy so I was looking forward to this book. Launa fell in love with him while watching the show and picked him immediately so it was just about them not showing their affection for each other. It just felt rushed and smashed together. I mean they literally jump each other 5 minutes after meeting. It was sweet how he introduced her to his family and I like that the human women turned fae have each other as friends long term. This was a good series but I like some of Lola’s other series better. I did like the Easter egg for the Forbidden Mates series which I love and am going to reread now.

[Ashkenia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short & Sweet

H: Kyle
h: Launa
This book is different in a sense that the human female wants and asks to be on the Survival repeatedly & she finally got her wishes and will be part of the Survival 6th season. She wanted Kyle to be his mate. Kyle decided that season 6 will be his last season, Having only 2-3 months left in him. As soon as she got there and won the 1st challenge, he made it his mission to help Launa find her mate. He didn't believe her when she said she wanted him, so in order to prove it she pretty much gave herself to her (virgin). This was a really straight forward and short story. Which I honestly didn't mind since there is not much you can really do that hasn't been done before.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heat & Hard Candies is a short novella to finish up the Survival of the Mated series. It was nice that it was short. Kyle had spent the last five seasons of the show matching up the women with the mates they chose. He knows for sure this new woman won't want him either, and so after this he'll go home to quietly spend his last few days with his family. But he deserves so much more than that, he's a good guy. And Launa thinks so too, after spending the past months watching him put others' needs in front of his own over and over.

So this conclusion is short and sweet and I was happy to get to see him get his happy ever after.

[Manda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kyle has been instrumental in ensuring that his fae friends get the women they have fallen for. This will his last Survival contest before he fades. Not expecting anything else he is stunned when the beautiful young woman states that it's him that she wants. Now they just have to ensure he wins!

Launa is a shy, determined individual and having studied every episode of the show she is absolutely certain that it is Kyle she wants. Game on!

A fantastic finale to a fabulous series. I have never been disappointed with any of this author's stories and can't wait to see what her next series is about.

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

[Michelle Peralta · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Heat & Hard Candies** is the enchanting finale to the *Survival of the Mated* series. Kyle, who has spent five seasons helping others find their matches, believes he’s destined for a quiet ending as he prepares to go home. But Launa, a shy yet determined fan of the show, has her sights set on him. After declaring her feelings during the final contest, they must work together to secure a win—and a future Kyle never imagined.

This novella wraps up the series beautifully, showcasing the author’s knack for storytelling. Each of her works has been a delight, and I can’t wait to see what she offers next!

[ERFEOT · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super Cute Rom Com - She Chooses Him!

I loved Launa's and Kyle's story! It is so sweet with a very satisfying HEA. The main difference with this book is that Launa chooses to go to survivor because she wants Kyle as her mate. Kyle is disbelieving at first but determined - nothing is going to keep him from her. This story is full of humor, fun, and spice!!

This book was announced as the third and last installment of the 'Survival of the Mated' series - I am keeping my fingers crossed that the author introduces more in this series in the future.

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

[Lb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since this is a novella it is super short and everything happens pretty quickly it's kind of an insta love situation, immediate steam on the first date, the tasks are pretty much the same as from the first few books which again was disappointing it's almost like the author didn't want to think of new challenges for them (and even at the end in the authors note she writes about how she wanted Kyle to get his story but couldn't really think of a longer story for him so it came out short and sweet).

Even with the similarities throughout each book I enjoyed the series and would pick up a book by this author again.

*novella *short and sweet *happy ending *insta love *fae *romantasy *survival game show

*Virgin female *age gap (obviously since he's supposed to be like 300 years old) *some spice

longer post on blog:
https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knowing she would be forced to participate in the TV shows for a Fae fated mate. Launa has a plan to take the bull by the horns and asks to be on the survival show, having already set sights on who she wants. Time is slipping by for Kyle this could be his last show, after helping other Fae nearing their end get their mates will this time be his chance for happiness or will it seal a tragic fate? A great ending to the series, being a novella it was more fast paced, which felt a shame for Kyles story. well written fast paced, steamy, fae, mates, romance

[Alicia Walton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a cute short story. Let me first say I loved that Kyle got his story. Throughout reading this series, I loved to see how Kyle transformed and I firmly believe that ending the series with Kyle finding his true love was perfect. I loved Launa. She was socially awkward but firm enough to keep writing the Society to join Survival to get the man she wanted. I loved it. I feel this book was a breath of fresh air and I found I could not put it down so I could see how the series ended. This is a perfect read for a short steamy book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Read From This Series

Kyle’s romantic story was a short novella which packed in a lot of heat in this swoon-worthy read. It didn’t need to be any longer, we’d met him in the last two books so this was just perfect.

Launa knew she wanted Kyle as her mate and was determined to get on the Island and claim him but first they had to play the game in order for them to get their HEA.

A fun, witty, romantic read with some sizzling moment not to be missed!.

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

[Natalia Ferreira · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short novella and conclusion to the series.

This is Kyle’s story. The all around “good guy” helping everyone win. What no one else knows is that he only has months left to live. He’s making sure everyone has their own happiness before his own.

Launa is the newest contestant on the game of Survival of the Mated. She comes in hot and knowing who she wants. She wants Kyle. No one else matters. No one else deserves her time. Knowing what she knows now, she’s so happy for her decision.

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

[Joanne (Lyra) · Rating 3 out of 5]

As usual, I have mixed feelings about the last book for Glass's series. This time it's not too bad, though I was wanting more pages on Kyle's struggles.

I really liked Launa and what we got shown of her, but I wished there was just more depth with her relationship with Kyle and his nearing end. Just wanted more from him that we already don't know, like it would have been so sweet seeing him interact with his sister who he adores.

In the end, I'm fine with this series. It's definitely more fun and chill, which is what I needed for my current reading slump!

[Kerry Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very happy that we got a resolution with Kyle! He started off not good in the first book and then became a really nice person who learned boundaries.

I was surprised how short the book was, but I definitely think it makes sense considering how he was viewed by the other Survivor contestants. I am glad it wasn’t dragged out, because you’d hope with his death being so near and how helpful he has been previous that the other contestants would be understanding. So manufacturing drama would have felt very mean.

All to say, lovely novella!

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heat and Hard Candies is the third Survival of the Mated stories and a novella that features MMC Kyle whose story I was eagerly waiting for.
MFC Launa has watched every season of Survival and now that she is set to appear as a contestant the choice is easy, Kyle is the Fae for her!
Their story is hot, hot, hot but nerve racking as they work together to keep the other Fae males from suspecting her choice has already been made. Luckily it all works out in the end.
Good writing, quick read and an HEA.

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

[Vicki Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed Kyle’s version of this story liked him from the previous books but felt a bit sorry for him as he never got the girl as he always helped other couples get together. He couldn’t believe his luck when Launa said she only wanted him an chose to come to island just to meet him. This was just a novella so just a short story but still enjoyed it just the same it’s a nice easy read if you don’t want to get invested in a full book.
Live all of Lola’s books and would definitely recommend!!.

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

[Cazadora De Mundos · Rating 1 out of 5]

Decir que estoy molesta es decir poco, era mi chico más esperado y no le hicieron justicia, esta serie sin duda fue de mal a peor.
Aca no hay historia es sexo y ya, el juego prácticamente no existió, el romance no floreció y no se vio la personalidad del prota.
Se noto mucho que lo escribieron sin ganas, tiene menos de la mitad de paginas que los dos anteriores t realmente ni se esforzó en escribir este libro, NO PASA NADA DE NADA, están en la isla comen, se eliminan y cogen nada más.
Un desastre altamente decepcionante.

[ajscenic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story, which focuses on Launa and Kyle.
I like how Laurna saw something she wanted and went for it.
Kyle has had the most character development throughout the series and that continued during his story.
This was a shorter read that the other books, but it didn't suffer.
The story was well rounded and seamless.
The romance was great and the interactions between Launa and Kyle was sexy and super-sweet.
This was a fitting ending to a very good series.

[Something2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good short read. Novellas are good for when you want to relax and have a finished story in a couple hours, from start to finish, including the happy end. And if possible, with lots of spicy elements. This novella offers exactly that - easy to read, loveable characters, happening in a world you already know, steamy scenes and happy end included! When you need something fun to fill up a couple od hours, this book will definitely help you out!