Courting the Krampus

Monsters of Alberad #3

by Elle Sterling

All Natalie wanted was a new adventure. What she didn’t expect was for that adventure to be in the North Pole. With a krampus and Santa’s secret second son.

Rerouted from her Caribbean vacation, Natalie is charmed not only by the magical pink snow, but by the chemistry between her hosts.

Jasper and Cole are in charge of Santa’s Naughty List—a job they abhor, but do diligently every year. When Natalie lets that slip—not so accidentally—to Santa, he sends them on a mission to come up with a creative alternative.

Will Natalie, Cole, and Jasper find the perfect replacement for coal in time for Christmas? Will their adventures as they traipse through elvish villages provide them with the right inspiration as they explore their fated bond?

Courting the Krampus is an MMF high heat romance between a human and her two fated mates. It’s the third standalone book in the Monsters of Alberad world. For readers 18+

Genres: Monsters, Christmas, M M F, Holiday, Why Choose, Fantasy, M M Romance

226 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2024

About the author

Elle Sterling is an author of wholesomely horny romance that'll make you giggle and swoon.

Much like her own life after emigrating from South Africa to South Korea, she enjoys writing characters crossing cultural barriers and loving without restraint.

You can usually find Elle in her writing cave with coffee within reach at all times. She also enjoys grilled kimchi-and-cheese sandwiches and hibernates during the humid summer until the weather has cooled.

To keep up with her life in Korea and latest releases, follow her on social media: @ellesterlingauthor

Reviews

[Poppy || Monster Lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fluffy, cozy, and sweet; all great things for a holiday romance. The fated mate bond stuff ramped up pretty quick between these three, though having an existing situationship between Cole and Jasper certainly played into that. Cole and Jasper were kinda outcasts with some low self worth. Natalie had figured out her worth, but was leery of long term relationships. She was bold and brazen bordering on no filter in her interactions but hey, I love a confident woman.

Spice: 5/5

Triggers: difficult parent and child relationship, social isolation, brief discussion of financial difficulties, vague discussion of children in difficult situations

[Marian Pattechat · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a spicy holiday treat! I had fun with the trio of MCs, who took me on an adventure of schmexy exploration and festive mischief. I liked how the FMC was open about what she wanted, and how she clicked with the guys. There were funny moments too. Lots of hot moments, good thing I had a fan to fan myself with vigorously :D I can't wait to see the other monsters of Alberad fall hard for their mates!

[Josie Lingard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courting the Krampus by Elle Sterling
5 🌟

After packing up her life in Arizona and heading to the Caribbean, the last thing Natalie expected was to meet a Krampus, let alone become magically bonded to him. When she follows Jasper to the North Pole, Natalie meets another magical male - Cole, Santa’s secret second son and Jasper’s ‘special friend’. When the three of them meet, sparks fly, and their bond expands. Could this be the start of something real, or will it only last for the holidays?

I’m not even sure I have the words to describe this book other than it was absolutely phenomenal. The spice was immaculately written (definitely a one-handed read, IYKYK 😉), the chemistry between Jasper, Natalie and Cole was exquisite, the banter was hilarious, and the overall cozy vibes felt like a big, warm hug. The dedication to open communication and explicit consent was beautifully written, and I loved the healing that the characters experienced throughout this book. And for such a spicy book, I wasn’t expecting to tear up at the end, but it was just so beautifully rounded 🥰 It’s safe to say Courting the Krampus has secured the number one spot in my Monsters of Alberad rating - until the next one at least ❤️💚

[Kara McCrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐ 5/5🌶️

Please note this is an ARC review and I was given this book for free in exchange for my review of it ☺️

This book was incredible. It was the spiciest of the series so far, but what I loved about it the most was that along with all that spicy goodness there was heaps of wholesomeness behind it. I just fell in LOVE with Jasper, Cole and Natalie. They were perfect for each other from the start. I was so so invested in their happiness that by the end of the book I had the warm and fuzzies. This book is a gem and really gets you in that Christmas spirit. It makes you wanna cuddle up and drink hot cocoa ( with gingerbread whipped cream 😏).
For me, Courting the Krampus was the perfect blend of festive holiday goodness and spice. The characters were all likeable and complimented one another perfectly. This is a stand alone, but I will always recommend the books of this series be read in order (this is book 3) to get the most out of the story. In my opinion this book (and the series as a whole) is a must read if you are into monster romance.

“Life’s too short to worry about shit out of our control. Just enjoy the ride. Pun intended.”

[Petra Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweetly lusty.

Let’s have a sex-positive Christmas with Krampus and Santa’s brother!

Sterling’s holiday story gets lusty right away, but there’s also a real story here. Amidst all the explicit scenes there is also vulnerability, friendship, and romance. Each of the trio profoundly affects the other two, and it’s so fun to read.

Krampus+half-elf+human
100% enthusiastic consent
Fated mates
Sugar plums and brandied cream
⚔️
The sweetest Santa ever (he’s lonely but not a love interest)
Pink snow

[Mary Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was SO good!! A holiday treat!

My heart is so full after reading about human Natalie and her two lovers, krampus Jasper and elf Cole. There were several moments of swooning, laughter, and blushing. I absolutely love how the three of them found each other and formed a beautiful mated throuple. The plot was light and fun, and the ending was lovely, bringing tears to my eyes at the family moment. Themes of acceptance, reconciliation, and adventure were prominently displayed. Well done!!

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was not expecting this to be so sweeeeet! It’s the perfect Christmas story for all my monster and why-choose book besties. We’ve got three hot hot hot characters, complete with MM and MMF action and let’s just say our MMCs have some very special surprises in their pants 🤣. I loved that it was low angst, fun, and packed with spice. This definitely makes me want to dive into the rest of the stories in this series!

[spidermse · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I'm going to affection her so hard she can't help but fall in love with both of us."

I was hooked from the first sentence. This book perfectly embodies the phrase "sugar, spice, and everything nice". There's sweet and cozy moments, a fun journey through the North Pole, fancy peens, amazing spice, and lots of healing.

I fell in love with all the characters. Natalie is such a strong, independent woman who knows what she wants and goes for it. Who wouldn't want a mate like her? And of course, our two monster consent kings who want Natalie in their lives but want to make sure she has the choice. "Your heart, your choice" really hit home right now. Why can't the real world be full of Jaspers and Coles. The chemistry between them all was hot and hilarious. I loved seeing, not only the relationship between the three grow, but the relationship between Jasper and Cole develop into more.

There's an amazing cast of side characters, too! I can't wait to find how Nick finds his HEA.

Perfect holiday feels book with spice hot enough to keep you warm! Make sure all the toys are charged before you read this one. 😏

[Kaitlyn Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing!
I loved every single second of it.
The spice. The plot. The characters. The tension. It was all perfect.

I aspire to be Natalie 🤣🤣
I would also love a Cole and a Jasper
please, and thank you 🫣🥰

The spice on this one was 🥵🥵🥵
Soooo good. I loved that Natalie was confident in her sexuality and even helped the guys become more comfortable with themselves.

The 3 of the really were perfect together. The way they loved and supported each other was everything.

Even through the hard stuff (PUN NOT INTENDED 🤭) they were able to be true to themselves and really become who they wanted to be. And it was so good to be able to see everybody come full circle at the end.

I do recommend reading the other 2 in this series before this one. As you only get a little of the original plot line in this one. So it will make the most sense if you read them first.

AND NOW I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!!!

[Ruby Dalegendaryreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

”We want you to stay. But we love you enough to make it your choice.”

This book hit my kindle early in the morning and I literally dropped my current read (Lights Out) to read this, and no regrets!

We follow Natalie, one of the girls who got the matching tattoos with Jasper, the Krampus. However, he’s also tied with Santa’s secret second son. They embarked on an adventure to improve Santa’s naughty list around the North Pole while exploring the new dynamic of their relationship.

Okay, I’m really picky with reading a MMF or any variation because the author might mess it up. But I trust Elle and she delivered!

This book is spicy but I didn’t mind it one bit. We saw the attraction between Natalie and Jasper when they were on the Caribbean vacation and boy, the chemistry and tension was off the charts! I was fanning myself.

The added mix of Cole in the story was handled well. As we go along their story, we also saw their own background, past and traumas as they were all communicative with each other.

I saw how the author took great care in balancing every character by slowly easing us into the story. As they get to know each other, we also saw them beyond their facade.

I’m gonna say it again, it’s spicy with added sprinkles on top wink wink!

Seeing the North Pole and the new world was so cool. Santa or anything related is not my culture or tradition, but it placed me right in a Christmas mood.

I love all characters that I can relate to them in some way or other. The way they all complemented each other and there’s no jealousy or anything because they are putting the work in.

I literally messaged the author after reading this because I cannot contain my excitement! I love her sm.
If you ask me to choose between Jasper and Cole, please don’t because I love them equally.

Brb while I go eat some sugar cookies and drink caffe mocha with gingerbread whipped cream.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This flirty little Christmas read really puts the smut in smutmas. Fated mates are brought together when krampus Jasper and human Natalie run into each other on a Caribbean island alongside other monster males and human women and both parties end up bound in some forced proximity tether shown by magically matching tattooed moon and stars. A moment I’m still a little confused about from how it was described but now knowing there are two books before this one, think it’s safe to assume the first romance would have (potentially) more information. I know it says standalones, but I think best enjoyment and understanding would probably come from reading in order. I’ll have to test that theory by reading book one myself but I think it’s a solid bet.

Anywho, the monster and human pairings each go their separate destinations from the island with Jas and Nat venturing all the way to the North Pole. And this North Pole is not exactly what one would picture: everything is PINK. Like trees and snow, all around pink. Talk about magical. The North Pole is also home to Jas’s “special friend” Cole and, well, the attraction between the three tells the story for itself. The phrase “communication is key” was definitely the motto this trio lived by in all aspects of getting to know each other. Their banter had me grinning so much at times throughout reading.

While the romance was a big part of this story and watching them fall in love amidst the lust was super sweet, I also really enjoyed the plotline of the trio trying to find a better way to handle the Naughty List than simply a lump of coal. Nat made such a good point to dear brother Santa in that sometimes what gets deemed “naughty” may not be so black and white as the List deems it to be. Their solution was beautiful and showcased their teamwork and talents as fates intended.

I am curious on which story will be told next: Diana amongst the wolves or maybe even Santa 👀👀👀

[B (ReadLikeB) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC but all thoughts are my own.

This series just gets better and better with each book. This time around we're with Cole, Jasper, and Natalie. Yes! We've got ourselves a throuple. I love how right off the bat Natalie is comfortable in her sexuality. She knows what she likes and what she wants. She has no issues expressing herself. And let me tell you, the author wastes no time bringing the heat. The dynamic between the characters feels natural, even with the addition of the FMC. I loved seeing how comfortable Cole and Jasper were with each other, you could tell they had a loving relationship that's been going on for awhile.

The spice wasn't the only good thing! I loved the plot as well. It was fun visiting the different North Pole villages and seeing how different each one was. Seeing each village welcome Cole & Jasper with open arms was really sweet. And picturing a Krampus with bells hanging off his horns is hilarious. The story line around Cole, Nick, and their father was really well done too. I liked that Natalie had no issues standing up for either of her males even though she was new here. Watching Cole and his family heal and find a new balance was really nice.

While this book is part of a series, you can easily read it as a standalone. Elle does a great job of always explaining the big picture in each book so readers aren't lost or confused. Oh and if you're a fan of specialty flavors of a certain variety, you'll love this book. IYKYK.

[Katie Brackett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rerouted from her Caribbean vacation after meeting Jasper, a Krampus, Natalie and him are set off to the North Pole. There she meets Cole, Santa's secret second son. Both Jasper and Cole are in charge of Santa’s Naughty List—a job they abhor, but do every year. When Natalie lets that slip—not so accidentally—to Santa, he sends them on a mission to come up with a creative alternative to coal. As the trio travel through and fall in love with the local villages finding the perfect replacement, they also start falling harder for each other. Did the fates get it right and will they accept their bond?

SHUT UP!! These three are the best and most adorable characters!! This book gave me all the spice, all the cutesy, and heartfelt moments all wrapped in one with the perfect bow on top! "Courting the Krampus" is easily my favorite in the series so far. The love and joy these three have for each other is felt so deeply. I felt like a fly on the wall reading. I loved seeing the relationship between Jasper and Cole grow with Natalie being their missing story page (IYKYK📚). I'm also hoping for a novella for Santa too 🙏

This will easily become an annual Christmas read. 🎁🎄 Please don't hesitate in adding this to your TBR immediately!

[Michelle Lebron · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can you not love the world of Monster of Alberad? Each book is a new world and a new literary obsession—this time, two instead of one. Elle has me captivated with these monster boyfriends; their unique charm becomes more fascinating each time. Natalie melts Cole’s heart with the fire she brings wherever she goes. She’s an independent, confident woman who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to ask for it. The level of spice in this book will have you reaching for a fire extinguisher—these three characters complement each other in such an incredible way. Every couple in Alberad seems perfectly matched, like they were made for each other. Let me tell you, the “monster dongs” in this book are absolutely mouthwatering, especially with the incredible “flavors” they bring.

Who would’ve thought Daddy Santa could be your father-in-law? Can you imagine? The way Elle describes the magic of the North Pole is simply enchanting and incredible. Nick holds a special place in my heart—I can’t wait for him to get his happy ending. This is the perfect story for Christmas, with just the right mix of coziness and spice. Pair this read with some gingerbread-flavored whipped cream, and you’re all set. I can’t wait for the next couple—these books are my new obsession!

[Micheala · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know that feeling you get when you come in from the cold and curl up under a nice blanket with a cup of hot chocolate? Yeah. That's this book.

We got the spice nice and early and the chemistry between the three was great! I love Natalie, Jasper, and Cole! They meshed so nicely together and I spent the whole book smiling and/or fanning myself lol. They helped each other grow and it was really quite beautiful. Overall, they're dynamic was just awesome!

I loved their adventure around the North Pole! It had me smiling the entire time. It brought the pink Christmas vibes and really lived up to the cozy feeling I love in my holiday books. It hit every single mark; spicy? Check. Cozy? Check. Sweet? Check. Fun? Check. Literally all the other adjectives? Check.

Twinkle had me laughing. I need to channel her energy. Nick...I love him already. Really, I liked all the side characters, but Nick especially. The ending was great and leaves an opening for more from these characters in the future.

Also, Natalie killed it with her decorations.

Thank you Elle for the arc. All thoughts are my own.

[meevreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prepare yourselves for a cozy, yet very spicy adventure through the North Pole with a human bonded to a Krampus, and Santa's secret second son.

Natalie, Jasper, and Cole might seem like an odd trio, but their chemistry was incredible. While Cole and Jasper had a previous relationship together, and Natalie was accidentally bonded to Jasper during their time in the Caribbean, they were all instantly attracted to each other and were pretty much inevitable. Natalie came in like a wrecking ball, breaking the two males out of their pining, and shaking things up in the North Pole. I loved her, she was confident and was not afraid of standing up for her loved ones. Jasper and Cole were both equally loveable, and they fell so fast and so hard for their feisty little human mate, it was adorable!
It was really great seeing them lay out their vulnerabilities and help each other through them. There was a lot of growth and acceptance, and it was heartwarming.

This book was full of love, a ton of sweet moments, and an equal amount of scorching spice. I absolutely recommend it for anyone looking for a sweet and spicy holiday read, monster romance style. It has MMF dynamics, sleigh rides, an adventure through the Noth Pole, fancy peens, and copious amounts of fluids 😆

Thank you Elle for the opportunity to read and review this book!

[Bookfairymel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was honestly a holiday masterpiece for me! It was so wholesome and heartfelt, while also being extremely spicy and funny. I think it was the perfect balance of everything, I even cried a couple of times. I loved Cole, Jasper and Natalie’s dynamic so much, I also appreciated how willing everyone was to switch and play around with each other. I think it was important for Natalie to have alone time moments with each of the boys, which enriched the dynamic between them. Cole was my personal favorite, I loved all his tattoos and how sweet he was to both of his mates. I also loved seeing him Dom during spicy scenes, strong daddy energy.

The spice was amazing, so many good uses of a poly dynamic. I also loved that Natalie was down to be in charge or not in the bedroom. I think if she was always bottoming, it wouldn’t have been as successful. Overall, the spice was five stars, the heartfelt moments were warm and filled with holiday spirit and all the characters were extremely lovable! I’m so in love with this series!

[Spicy_bookcorner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Monsters of Alberad series and probably my favourite one so far-I do love the previous two, don’t get me wrong.

Natalie (the best name by the way ☺️) is bound to Jasper but then she meets Nick (ho ho ho) secret son Cole who also happens to be getting jiggy with Jasper on occasion. Natalie, Cole and Jasper navigate their relationship whilst delivering a mission from Santa.

I just found this one sooooo smexy. I’be not really read much MMF books, let alone a supernatural one but oh my gosh, was it hot. I loved Jasper and Cole and how beautiful they were together; you could tell they really cared about each other. I thought their relationship with Natalie was just really cute YET 🥵. I am not jealous at all 🤣

This had some really funny and cheeky parts to it, which I loved.

I cannot wait for more from Elle 💋

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[Hilary Delorey · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 Courting Krampus
🖊 Elle Sterling
⭐️ Rating 4/5
🌶 Spice 5/5

This book had the perfect mix. A cute plot where a group triggers a mating bond, only it's with a Krampus and a human. They go back to the north pole where his partner is, the brother to Santa, Cole. Get this Cole's in charge of the naughty list. Together they explore their mating bond, and work together to change Christmas for the better by moving away from coal for naughty children. Their adventures in finding inspiration for this project, the magic throughout the North Pole and their blossoming love is incredible. Add to it they're so 'naughty' in other ways with special parts and neat characteristics to add to the magic. I really enjoyed it.

[McKayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun, flirty, dirty, and FESTIVE story!

I absolutely loved the flirty banter Jasper, Natalie, and Cole had going on. Jasper was especially hysterical. I adore Natalie, her ability to lay her boundaries and be strong, and know exactly what she wants is something I wish I could learn! (One day) she’s an icon FR.

I couldn’t stop giggling and kicking my feet while reading this. I was utterly obsessed with the ambiance and vibes of this too. It truly felt like you had the creamiest, richest hot chocolate while curled up in front of a fire. The imagery in this book for the North Pole was SO GOOD.

The knotting in this was A+

[Darktwistybookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

• MMF
• Fated mates
• Forced proximity
• Hurt / comfort
• Pr!mal chase
• Flavoured fluids
• Knøtting

Just like Christmas, this book is filled with a mixture of sugar, spice, and heartwarming Hallmark moments.
This is our first throuple in the series, and let's just say Natalie is a very lucky girl! This book brings the heat pretty quickly, but there's also a lot of healthy communication, healing, and a festive story to bring the cosy vibes.
Cole and Jasper were just adorable. They may be flirty and dominant, but they also had really tender sides, which melts your heart. I really enjoyed it!

[Misty's Book Space · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is the 3rd book in the Monsters of Alberad series and the best one so far in my opinion. First off what an opening line. That one will stick with me for a while for sure. I love how we did get a little recap on what happened in the first book, but it was short and sweet and to the point. I loved the banter between Natalie, Jaspers and Cole. I pretty much had a permanent smile on my face while reading this. I also got giddy at times reading it. I loved how all 3 of the main characters were confident in the sexuality and knew what they wanted and wasn't afraid to talk about it with each other. If you didn't know this is a why choose MMF romance. It's very steamy which I of course love. This was almost a full 5 star read for me but in the last half I lost that giddy feeling I had while reading the first half. I can't wait for the next book in the series.

[Erin M. Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of all three books that the indomitable Elle has written so far, I think Courting is by far the sweetest, sexiest book of hers. It just hits you right in the feels, and keeps on going. Jasper, Cole, and Natalie all had some past trauma that with the help of each other were able to work through the past by talking and enjoying each other's company, by being there for each other.
I just loved how they meshed together being three different species; a Krampus, Christmas Elf/Santa, and a Human. As always, I'm definitely looking forward to the next book.
I received a complimentary ARC from the author for a fair and honest review.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always with Elle, this is a lovely balance of spicy (and this one is HOT) and cozy, especially as a holiday romance novel. This novel follows Natalie and Jasper after they meet on the eventful vacation, and Natalie's introduction to Jasper's other partner, Cole. With Natalie, they go on a (SPICY) journey to make improvements to Santa's naughty list gifts. Once all 3 found their place in the dynamic, they all clicked together perfectly. Natalie was hesitant to give into the fated bond, but no doubt the support from Cole and Jasper helped her to make a decision.

This series has been so much fun to read, and I can't wait to see the rest of the HEAs to come.

[ladybreww · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted an explanation for the bond tattoos - so the story to me felt unfinished. I am such a sucker for a cute cover that I picked this up and dove in. The spice was superb. Love the ... flavors. If you like insta love and cheesy fated mates you will enjoy this. All things considered it is pretty monster light. My biggest issue for why this wasn't rated higher was because it either needed to be cut down into a true novella, or developed a bit more into a full length book. The middle of the ground length didn't work for me.

[Jenn Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steamy and fluffy fated mates holiday read

This was a fluffy and steamy holiday romance! Krampus, Santa’s brother, and a human end up with a mysterious bond. What begins as a weird coincidence turns out to be fate and just may be the way to saving Christmas for all those who end up on the naughty list.

Tropes/themes:
- MMF romance
- Fated mates
- Dom/Sub
- Shifter Romance

If you enjoy a quick and steamy holiday monster romance, this is for you!

[Lanae (findmeonsmutlane) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is spicy, cheesy, adorable, and the perfect read for Christmas. If you're interested in monsters, but want hallmark cuteness, this is an excellent read for you!

The story is very insta-love, but I honestly loved it. Things happened quickly, but it was fun. I loved all the Christmas aspects of the story. The entire adventure in the North Pole and bringing in the different Christmas stories and traditions.

A great little christmasy monster read!

[fullyb00ked👻📚 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just as sweet as it was spicy 🥵 seriously the spice was DELICIOUS!

The plot is a pretty simple & safe story, there’s not much angst and nothing bad happens to the characters so if you want a read that’s not going to break you then this is it. It’s very heartwarming and cosy with plenty of Christmas magic.

The spice is what made it for me. All three MCs had great distinct characters and when they all came (😏) together in the bedroom it was perfection.

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute!

While being fast-paced and almost insta love, I still really like this story and how cute Jasper was. He makes me wish that I could have a sweet, cuddly krampus of my own.

I started with this one, even though technically it’s the third in the series, it can definitely be a standalone. However, I will eventually go back and red the first two because now I’m invested in this crazy world of monster brethren.

[Katie Moody · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a spicy holiday treat, look no further! Courting the Krampus is perfect if you’re looking for a fated mates MMF story that has the spiciest spice! Elle does an amazing job in this monster romance focused on Natalie, Cole & Jasper’s time in the North Pole. I can’t wait for the next book!