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Meet a girl with tails and a guy with horns in this different take on a workplace romance.

Bastian Castillo is the head cook and aspiring manager of the Burger Bliss restaurant. He’s arrogant, rich, annoying, and the absolute bane of my existence. It doesn’t matter that he’s my co-worker and the most attractive person I know because I cannot stand the guy, and I’m sure the feeling is mutual.

But my bi-monthly Heat that every female Fox Folk experiences comes unexpectedly one night and he’s the best and only option to help me through it. Imagine my surprise when he’s so nice about the entire ordeal and really makes it seem like he cares about my well-being! Maybe we’re more than just rival co-workers at a fast-food burger restaurant… Maybe we’re something more?

Join Odessa “Desi” Rose, a Fox Folk woman with three tails, as she navigates life and deals with the bi-monthly Heat that threatens to upend her tentative “friendship” with the restaurant’s head burger cook with gray skin and horns, Bastian Castillo.

“Burger Bliss” is a standalone romance novel with a HEA and adult content.

197 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 20, 2024

18 people are currently reading
58 people want to read

About the author

Minty Marie

12 books19 followers
Minty Marie can be found mostly at her desk typing on her laptop or staring out the window in thought. She lives in sunny SoCal and while the weather is great, she’s really more of an indoor person. That’s where she writes her spicy books and giggles to herself throughout the entire process.

She also has several cats with varying degrees of color and drama. If you’ve read her books through KU or purchased them, the money she earned probably went towards them in some fashion or other.

Follow her on Insta for updates! @Minty.Marie.Books

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5 stars
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32 (41%)
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17 (21%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Becky Rice.
242 reviews45 followers
November 16, 2024
This book was so good!

Lots of good spicy scenes, humor, and a storyline that keeps you interested.

I especially liked how expressive the tails of the main character were. It made me laugh every time her tails gave away her emotions.

Im giving it a 4 star.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and BookSirens for allowing me to read this ARC
Profile Image for Tiffany ✨️ Bergamot Book Reviews.
551 reviews17 followers
November 20, 2024
Desi and Bastian are Fox Folk and Demonnie coworkers at the local Burger Bliss who regularly rile each other up. Desi finds him to be an arrogant, annoying know-it-all with management aspirations. She's a college dropout with family issues and nowhere to stay during an approaching heat cycle. Bastian swoops in and offers to take care of her. One thing leads to another, and Desi's opinion begins to shift with each action Bastian takes to begin something anew.

*****

This was such an unexpectedly cute and lighthearted novella. I enjoyed the modern world she built, with the preemptive description of each race existing in New California. Diving right into Desi and Bastian's conflict had me interested from the first page, although I would have liked their pre-heat relationship to be fleshed out more. The switch from her heat to being together had such little tension or build-up. We were primarily told, but not shown, examples on page of their historically combative interactions beforehand. Having more of a chain of events of that animosity could have added some depth that was missing to the plot and characters themselves while still keeping it entertaining and lighthearted. There were little gaps in how the characters were fleshed out, so they ended up being interesting yet surface level. I would have loved more detail in the development of their feelings, the spice, and a bit more plot to really tie up the loose ends.

Despite it being more of a surface level read, it was fun! At some points, dialogue got a bit cheesy, and a few grammar and spelling mistakes were missed, yet the novella was easy to get into. The pacing was solid, the world didn't need a lot of build-up to understand it.

If you're looking for an entertaining and quick read with some spice that doesn't involve too much back story or convoluted history, this one is a hit.

*****

Thank you, BookSirens and Minty Marie, for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for monika_is_booked.
390 reviews13 followers
November 2, 2024
Desi and Bastian have been working at Burger Bliss for quite some time. While Desi is sure, he doesn't like her, Bastian has been watching her and when Desi is in need of a place to stay during her heat, he finally can come to her rescue. Wil he be able to keep her permanently or is it just a temporary truce?
This is such a cute, cozy story. Found family working alongside at a Burger restaurant, going through ups and downs but always having each other's back. Even the grumpy co-worker who you wouldn't expect to do so. The sp!ce is amazing. Desi is in heat after all and needs help to get through it 🥵
The world building with it's different characters is really interesting and I can't wait for more stories centering around a certain cute Burger restaurant 🥰
3,188 reviews31 followers
November 18, 2024
Desi, the female Fox Folk lead, has always been viewed as less by her culture and family because she only has three tails instead of the vaunted nine. Having struggled at college, she has dropped out and is currently living out of her car and working at a local burger franchise. Unfortunately, she hasn’t had funds for suppressants and her heat is approaching.

Bastian, the male Demonnie lead, has been a thorn in Desi’s side during her employment. She knows he’s a rich creature and assumes he’s deliberately a jerk, though he’s extremely attractive. But, when he finds out she’s homeless and about to go into heat, he offers his home as a safe place for Desi. And then doesn’t take advantage of her. Maybe there’s more than base attraction here…

This novella is female lead POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary fantasy romance. I enjoyed Desi’s attitude and appreciated how hard she worked for her independence. I enjoyed that she was willing to take assistance she genuinely needed, rather than doggedly stubborn. I enjoyed Bastian’s generosity and morals, and how his actions changed Desi’s perspective of him. I enjoyed their intimate scenes. I chuckled at the banter between characters, both lead and secondary. I enjoyed the supportive secondary characters. Though I prefer dual POV, this story was enjoyable, and I will look for more by this author.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Profile Image for I'll See Ya Luv.
82 reviews
October 26, 2024
Nice steamy novella under 200 pages. I liked the world Minty created, The Creatures of New California. I appreciated all the various monsters and how she detailed them all out at the start to help create the imagery.

I liked the main characters, Desi and Bastian. The pacing of the book was ok. Honestly the spicy scenes felt a bit repetitive towards the end.

There's a sub plot with Desi's family treating her like an outcast but it's just barely mentioned, it's almost not even necessary to have the Mother constantly texting her.

I liked the plot of coworkers at a fast food joint, add in the paranormal aspect of monsters, and the enemies to lovers at work trope. All good stuff, great potential. I enjoyed Bastian claiming he always wanted Desi, although the book never explained why he was mean or rude or whatnot. I guess we just chock it up to him being a jerk or something.

Unfortunately I didn't highlight anything. So I'm going with 3 stars. Lots of spicy scenes, with toys and double appendages, no spoiler as it's mentioned in CWs.

The book is romantic and it's a quick read.
Profile Image for LyTysha.
147 reviews6 followers
November 23, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, to Booksprout and the author, Minty Marie for the opportunity to read this book.

Minty Marie’s books are always so imaginative and this was no exception. This may be my favorite book of hers to date! Burger Bliss is spicy, fun, and has some unexpected turns that keep you on your toes.

Odessa is one of my favorite female main characters in a long time. She works so hard and struggles so much. She has overcome a lot in her life, including being excluded by her Fox Folk family because she is considered the “runt” of the family. Bastian is one of her co-workers and he is a different species (Demonnie) and Desi cannot stand him. However, a series of unfortunate events including Desi going into her heat, force them together in a way. I love a good “enemies to lovers” book and this one was well-done. I love Bastian’s caring spirit and how he wanted to nurture Desi through her difficult times.

Minty, please keep writing because I genuinely love your creativity!
1,671 reviews15 followers
October 22, 2024
This is a funny, sexy and sweet romance about Desi and how she thought she was a rock bottom, but somehow she turns a corner and ends up living her best life. I thought that Desi was funny, stubborn but determined. Bastian was so sweet and caring and they were perfect for each other.
This is such a feel-good story that made be laugh. I was rooting for both of them.
Let me tell you, this had the perfect ending.
This is one of the most enjoyable books that I have read all year.
Profile Image for Tess.
24 reviews
November 4, 2024
This was my second or third foray into monster romance, and may I just say, there are still things that I am learning as I delve into this genre. First off, please pay attention to the content considerations, and if that's not something that you want to experience, don't read this book. Second, I really appreciated the list of the different kinds of creatures that I encountered in the book. Okay onto the book itself. This is a short quick read, and I would call it cozy. There's not a ton of drama or suspense. If this were an anime I would akin it to almost a slice of life anime. The characters are enjoyable, there's definitely a he fell first atmosphere, as well as some enemies to lovers and forced proximity. The spice was SPICY. Beware the heat if that's not something you are into because it is prevalent and it doesn't wait. This would have been a 5 star read if there was a little more plot and character development, but overall enjoyable.

Thank you to BookSirens and Minty Marie for providing me with and eARC of this book
3,491 reviews27 followers
November 19, 2024
“Burger Bliss: A New California Monster Romance” by Minty Marie

A fun, spicy novella set in a quirky monster-filled world. The found family dynamic at the burger joint adds warmth and humor. While the romance between Desi and Bastian is steamy, some might wish for more emotional buildup. A light, entertaining read perfect for fans of cozy monster romance.
I received a free copy of this book. This is my honest opinion, freely shared.
Profile Image for Banana.
37 reviews2 followers
October 26, 2024
Full disclosure, I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I was super stoked for this book given the setting and premise. Expected something with similar vibes to the movie Waiting with lots of comedy and commiserating over working in the food industry. Although the characters were likable, I do wish the book had more depth. More plot, more details in the spice, etc. If you're looking for something very lighthearted with spice, you'll love this.
Profile Image for Leanne Prangnell.
184 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2024
A very enjoyable read. This story is short and sweet and thoroughly enjoyable. Even though there were some grammatical and spelling errors throughout, they didn’t feel too jarring.

I enjoyed the mix of creatures in this world from Fox Folk, Demonnie and humans, to name a few, and the various character types and how they worked together, as well as the ‘realistic’ look into how life pans out sometimes and that ‘meeting expectations’ isn’t the be all and end all, especially with the right people.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.9k reviews369 followers
November 20, 2024
Learning Something New . . .

Bastian Castillo, a Demonnie (human/demon-type hybrid), is the head cook and wannabee manager of Burger Bliss restaurant. He is annoying with his arrogant attitude. His co-worker, Odessa Rose (“Desi”), is a Fox Folk woman having only 3 tails (which makes her family shun her since she doesn’t have the requisite 9 tails). Although she acknowledges that Bastian is attractive, she does not like being around the man. But when her bi-monthly Heat arrives unexpectedly one night, Bastian is her only option to get through it and he takes her home to keep her safe. To her surprise, he is cooperative and kind through her entire ordeal and treats her with respect! Does he possibly have feelings for her? Or has she just misjudged him right from the start?
149 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2024
Cute story premise. What there is of it. The author mentions at the beginning that there is sex and cussing. However there is far more sex than story telling. Could have done with more of the story to keep my interest. Almost DNF less than half way into the book. Not my cup of tea.
5 reviews
October 30, 2024
Loved this book! Gave me real feels from working in the service industry, hehe. Enjoyed the FMCs personal growth and the MMC grew on me. Another banger by Minty!!
Profile Image for Ann Brown.
3,587 reviews24 followers
November 22, 2024
A funny, heartwarming, spicy romance with fabulous characters. Desi and Bastian were so adorable together. So much fun to read.

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,393 reviews7 followers
Read
November 21, 2024
This was a cute story, steamy with low angst. I like how the relationship between Desi and Bastion developed, and their friends are also a hoot.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Christina Bowling.
1,601 reviews15 followers
November 22, 2024
This one was a little different and I wasn't entirely sure how I would feel about it, but was drawn to it enough to give it a try. I'm glad I did, it was a fun story and kept me entertained.
Profile Image for WTF did I just Read Reviews.
191 reviews12 followers
November 7, 2024
A cute not common romance, at least not for me. In the way that I don't read creature romance when i opted to read this book i did not realize. However, that being said I am glad that I did. It was a cute story, a little odd for me during spicy scenes because it was creatures but anyone who reads this genre would surly be swooned.
The writing itself is detailed and relatable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jen.
304 reviews3 followers
December 7, 2024
Monster McDonald's

Desi and Bastain have been bickering coworkers for years. That is until Bastain finds out Desi is living in her car and about to go into Heat. He invites her stay with him as a matter of safety, but before long, he's helping her out.

Desi finally sees that Bastain isn't just the arrogant rich kid she always assumed. When she gives him a chance, sparks fly.

I've read plenty of books set among restaurant staff, but never a fast food restaurant. It was fun having these non-human characters just working in a burger joint.
Profile Image for Elliot.
53 reviews8 followers
November 4, 2024
This was such a cute fun(and steamy) read!
I was instantly drawn to it and I loved the modern world with fictional human like creatures!
Absolutely adored Bastian and his grumpyness but also how he was more complex and down to earth than he seems. Adored him and Desi’s relationship and how it evolved! A big thank you to BookSirens for allowing me an ARC of this book in return for an honest review!
38 reviews
October 29, 2024
This is a story set in New California with species that have an explanation and introduction in the beginning of the book. Even if you don't read that part, you will catch on to what is happening.

Overall, I liked this story but a few things made me not love it. I really had trouble with the amount of di**do usage, not as a prude but more like get it on already. I also thought the characters were using the di**dos so often to prepare for really spicy scenes later in the book and that didn't happen. Also, the repeated description of smelling like burgers after a shift took me out of the romance, back to reality.

Except for the two things mentioned above, I liked the story. It is an enemies to lovers trope and it is done well.

If you like a bit of fantasy with your romance, you will like this quick, easy read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
134 reviews3 followers
November 3, 2024
Desi and Bastian are so cute together! Not quite an enemies-to-lovers trope, but almost. Just two beings with a love-hate relationship that thankfully develops into way more. This book will have you on swooning with the unrequited love, tearing up at life's unfairness, and blushing at the steamy scenes. I couldn't put this down and highly recommend binge reading it in one sitting.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rachael.
251 reviews33 followers
November 29, 2024
4⭐️
3🌶️

I had a lot of fun with this story, and Desi and Bastian were great characters with plenty of chemistry and heat, in more ways than one. 😉

This is a quick, light read, so if you're looking for something less serious and more fun and steamy then look no further. The world Minty Marie has created is interesting and quirky, yet still touches on some larger personal and societal issues; specifically, the fact that Desi has been outcast from her Fox Folk family because she doesn't fit their 'perfect' physical standards.

Desi and Bastian's co-working relationship until this point has been contentious, but I wish we could've gotten more of those interactions before they were thrown together for her heat, because I love a good enemies/rivals to lovers trope, and this one was very light on the first half of that trope for me.

The steam was great in this one 🥵, though it was a good majority of the story, so if that's not what you're lookin for this might not be for you.

Overall this is a quick, light, steamy monster novella that I recommend to anyone looking for just that kind of a read. 😘
I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
651 reviews3 followers
December 2, 2024
Bastian & Odessa (Desi): A New California Monster Romance: Hybrids (Monster, animal, demon, & other mythical entities)/ workplace/ paranormal romance: Standalone. Fun & spicy quick read. Minty Marie did a great job with world building and character development. Hopefully more is developed from this unique world, because I would love to read it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Brittany.
22 reviews
November 29, 2024
Ya'll…..this book was so good. I was lucky to receive an arc of this book.
It was rather funny. I loved the banter between the FMC and the MMC. I usually gravitate more to the omegaverse but I love this hybrid human/animal universe.

The story was very spicy but it also had heart. I loved the story. now I do feel like there were more characters to keep up with than I would have liked but they were all pretty interesting characters.

All in all I will reccommend this book to anybody and I really think that it's a fun book to read while also getting a dose of spice.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rebecca Tofflemire.
39 reviews
October 31, 2024
This was a cute, easy, toe dip into my first non-human/non-fae book and I loved it. Spicy and sweet and the perfect palette cleanser.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,210 reviews
November 30, 2024
This is an entertaining monster workplace romance book that holds your attention captive from beginning to end. The storyline is intriguing as the elements unfold. The characters are well written with steamy chemistry together. I enjoyed this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Alex T.
399 reviews2 followers
November 27, 2024
Well written plot line and the characters were intresting to read the romance the drama between the characters were off the charts. Liked outwardly romance received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
24 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2025
Y’all. I picked this book solely to broaden my book genre and experience something new and hopefully fun. I loved it! Seriously. It’s not too heavy but not so lighthearted either. It’s a monster romance but not so outside the ‘norm’ that you cannot relate to characters in it. Well written and an absolute blast to read. I’ve added Minty Marie to my authors to follow and cannot wait to read more of their work! As always when I read any book and love it I secretly hope we get to hear more from the characters in this book. So maybe in the future we’ll get a book from one of the side characters in here ✨hint hint✨ 🤣🤣🤣 thank you for allowing me to read this ARC MM, I can’t wait to find more. Easy 5⭐️ from me!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Maaren.
1,538 reviews10 followers
October 30, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

**

Burger Bliss tells the story of Desi and Bastian, two co-workers who on the surface look like they might be enemies. But when Desi's Heat comes on unexpectedly and Bastian finds out she is living in her car, he offers to take her to his place to ride it out. And when things heat up, could it be that these two do not hate each other after all?

I really like the world the author has created and I loved the different species that were introduced. I think the lore was done well, especially with the Fox Folk and the Demonnie's as those are the two primary ones, but the secondary characters and their customs really deepened the thing for me. I found it intriguing and I wanted to find out more.

The story is pretty fast paced but it does help a lot that these characters have known each other for a time and are in the same group. I got some lovely found family vibes from the book as well which I really enjoyed. Especially the friendship between Desi and Tandi was adorable.

The book is quite spicy and I think the author did a lovely job at balancing those spicy moments with the more quiet, introspective ones. In those quieter moments we really get to know both main characters well and I found myself really liking both Bastian and Desi. I will admit that it took me a second to warm up to Bastian in the beginning but he grew on me and by the end of the book, I was really liking him a lot. Yay for character growth and understand his motives!

I am curious to see where the world goes next and who we might see next in the series. There's definitely some potential future couples in the Burger Bliss family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews