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Monster Under My Bed, Volume I
From Holly Roberds, comes a deliciously dark, depraved monster romance that is not for the faint of heart.In a childhood fractured by abuse and neglect, the monster under my bed was my unlikely guardian.
The bloody night he abandoned me left me broken, but now he’s back.
As I’ve matured, so has my need for him. My desires are dark, perverse, and only my monster can fulfill them.
My world’s a mess, spiraling into violence and fear, until I’m on the verge of embracing my inner darkness. He’s determined to preserve the humanity I’m on the brink of losing, but I'm not so sure it's worth keeping.
Welcome to a new side of Holly Roberds, and a dark romance meant for those who like it pitch black
The bloody night he abandoned me left me broken, but now he’s back.
As I’ve matured, so has my need for him. My desires are dark, perverse, and only my monster can fulfill them.
My world’s a mess, spiraling into violence and fear, until I’m on the verge of embracing my inner darkness. He’s determined to preserve the humanity I’m on the brink of losing, but I'm not so sure it's worth keeping.
Welcome to a new side of Holly Roberds, and a dark romance meant for those who like it pitch black
536 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2025
398 people are currently reading
792 people want to read
About the author
Holly Roberds
42 books1,853 followersHolly Roberds is an Amazon Top 40 Bestselling Author of the Vegas Immortals and Lost Girls series, known for badass heroines, gut-busting laughs, and spicy romance. Holly lives in Denver but is only outdoorsy in that she drinks on patios—with a prosecco in one hand and an espresso in the other. When not writing, she’s playing D&D, sharpening her banter skills, or sinking her teeth into her husband’s very bitable arm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
October 20, 2025
ARC Review
3.25⭐🌶️🌶️🌶️
So I signed up for this Arc because I was pretty sure it was a Kindle Vella chapter by chapter that I had been reading last year (I eventually got confirmation that it was in fact the same).
So I was excited to finally finish the story. (I think I had read about 10 chapters previously). I also was a kid who was never afraid of the monster under the bed because my mom told me that they were there to protect me.
so needless to say, I was excited for this book.
It does come with a list of trigger warnings at the beginning of the book which I am here for. But it unfortunately does not list the one thing that infuriated me the most: narcissism.
sadly our FMC has narcissistic qualities and they get worse as the story goes on. if the point of the book had been to hate the FMC then I could give it five stars, but I'm definitely in the minority here. I've dealt with narcissists in my life and I just don't want to read stories that focus on them.
Yes, the FMC has a dark and troubled past. which definitely leads to a lot of mental health issues. But by the end of the book when she is just being downright nasty and spiteful to our MMC monster, I really just want him to give her the finger and be like, "I'm out b🐩".. because she doesn't deserve him.
our MMC is golden retriever adjacent. more like a German Shepherd. loyal to a fault, but will rip apart those who hurt the FMC. But we also don't learn much about him and he doesn't have any character growth.
There are parts of the book that are beautifully written. this would include the flashbacks. and if you're looking for 🥵🌶️ , you'll find it here. unfortunately I just can't root for the FMC.
3.25⭐🌶️🌶️🌶️
So I signed up for this Arc because I was pretty sure it was a Kindle Vella chapter by chapter that I had been reading last year (I eventually got confirmation that it was in fact the same).
So I was excited to finally finish the story. (I think I had read about 10 chapters previously). I also was a kid who was never afraid of the monster under the bed because my mom told me that they were there to protect me.
so needless to say, I was excited for this book.
It does come with a list of trigger warnings at the beginning of the book which I am here for. But it unfortunately does not list the one thing that infuriated me the most: narcissism.
sadly our FMC has narcissistic qualities and they get worse as the story goes on. if the point of the book had been to hate the FMC then I could give it five stars, but I'm definitely in the minority here. I've dealt with narcissists in my life and I just don't want to read stories that focus on them.
Yes, the FMC has a dark and troubled past. which definitely leads to a lot of mental health issues. But by the end of the book when she is just being downright nasty and spiteful to our MMC monster, I really just want him to give her the finger and be like, "I'm out b🐩".. because she doesn't deserve him.
our MMC is golden retriever adjacent. more like a German Shepherd. loyal to a fault, but will rip apart those who hurt the FMC. But we also don't learn much about him and he doesn't have any character growth.
There are parts of the book that are beautifully written. this would include the flashbacks. and if you're looking for 🥵🌶️ , you'll find it here. unfortunately I just can't root for the FMC.
October 24, 2025
This was such an amazing monster romance!! I am so obsessed and I need more so much!! Evie was such an interesting character, and seeing her fight for herself and push for her life and the things she needed was so beautiful! Her growth and blossoming into her own, and embracing the monster in her life was just amazing to watch, especially as her self confidence and self worth grew and evolved! And Shadow was so amazing as he so slowly allowed himself to indulge in comforting Evie and keeping her safe! I loved getting to see him accept his own wants and needs, and continue to fight so desperately for Evie and to keep what he wanted for himself! These two were amazing together, and all but explosive! I am so obsessed with this story and Volume 2 cannot come soon enough!! I can't wait to see more of this world and so much more of these two!! Overall this is everything you want in a monster romance, and I just want to dive directly into the book!! 5 stars; 4.25 chili peppers
Tropes:
- Monster x Human
- Forced Proximity
- Forbidden Romance
- Touch Her and D*e
- Only Have Eyes For You
- Flashbacks
Tropes:
- Monster x Human
- Forced Proximity
- Forbidden Romance
- Touch Her and D*e
- Only Have Eyes For You
- Flashbacks
October 26, 2025
Monster Under My Bed, Volume 1 by Holly Roberds
📕 Rating: 3.5⭐️ 4🌶️
Shadow, the monster that has been under Evie’s bed, has been her friend, protector, and later, her reluctant lover. Shadow is your typical morally black, OTT protective shadow monster daddy that happens to know more about Evie than he lets on.
Evie has a troubled youth, bouncing from one abusive foster home to another. The trauma from her childhood years carries well into adulthood, leaving her insecure and stuck in a rut with dwindling prospects. She also has a bad attitude, which only worsens with Shadow’s absence and his secrecy. Then, like a flip of a switch, she is suddenly confident and powerful. I missed something there. Okay, so she hit rock bottom, but she didn’t just climb up; it’s like she catapulted up. I think more could have been written about her growth.
Miguel was a cameo in Evie’s life. He was the purest part, but unfortunately, her life is too complicated for him to stay in.
My favorite part of this book is the monster smut. Shadows, tentacles, forked tongues, and horns to hold on to.
Regarding the plot, I’m still trying to make sense of it. This book ends on a cliffhanger.
Thank you to Holly Roberds for the eARC which allowed me to read and voluntarily provide an unbiased review.
TROPES/ THEMES: age gap, monster under the bed, reluctant protector, monster smut
📕 Rating: 3.5⭐️ 4🌶️
Shadow, the monster that has been under Evie’s bed, has been her friend, protector, and later, her reluctant lover. Shadow is your typical morally black, OTT protective shadow monster daddy that happens to know more about Evie than he lets on.
Evie has a troubled youth, bouncing from one abusive foster home to another. The trauma from her childhood years carries well into adulthood, leaving her insecure and stuck in a rut with dwindling prospects. She also has a bad attitude, which only worsens with Shadow’s absence and his secrecy. Then, like a flip of a switch, she is suddenly confident and powerful. I missed something there. Okay, so she hit rock bottom, but she didn’t just climb up; it’s like she catapulted up. I think more could have been written about her growth.
Miguel was a cameo in Evie’s life. He was the purest part, but unfortunately, her life is too complicated for him to stay in.
My favorite part of this book is the monster smut. Shadows, tentacles, forked tongues, and horns to hold on to.
Regarding the plot, I’m still trying to make sense of it. This book ends on a cliffhanger.
Thank you to Holly Roberds for the eARC which allowed me to read and voluntarily provide an unbiased review.
TROPES/ THEMES: age gap, monster under the bed, reluctant protector, monster smut
October 29, 2025
I can always count on holly to bring out of a reading slump! I fucking devoured this. Holy fuck…Not only was this spicy as hell, my god was it emotional and I wasn’t expecting that!
The universe just knows me too well because damn, I think I needed this little dark monster romance at the right time.
My fucking heart. Shadow and Evie, my Evie. Ugh my soul feels tied to her. They both are such amazing main characters.
"𝕸ᥡ ძᥱᥣіᥴі᥆ᥙs 𝖿ᥙᥴkіᥒg ᥣі𝗍𝗍ᥣᥱ m᥆ᥒs𝗍ᥱr."
Holly truly knows how to write a fantasy novel and get you HOOKED. This is truly such an amazing story, yes it’s dark but so beautiful. The smut is absolutely immaculate, per usual.
Shadow daddy with tendrils & a forked tongue?!? HEHE YES PLEASE/
THAT FUCKING ENDING???? I need more asap and more in shadows POV. I’m so excited for what is to come!
𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕖, 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕒𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕.
𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕒 𝕧𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕞.
𝕀 𝕕𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕀 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕.
𝕀 𝕕𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕢𝕦𝕚𝕖𝕥 𝕠𝕣 𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕚𝕕 𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟.
𝕀 𝕔𝕒𝕟 𝕥𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕀’𝕞 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙 𝕚𝕥 𝕤𝕚𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕪 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕥.
❤️𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲
✨𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐱 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫
❤️𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲
✨𝐝𝐮𝐛𝐜𝐨𝐧
❤️𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲
The universe just knows me too well because damn, I think I needed this little dark monster romance at the right time.
My fucking heart. Shadow and Evie, my Evie. Ugh my soul feels tied to her. They both are such amazing main characters.
"𝕸ᥡ ძᥱᥣіᥴі᥆ᥙs 𝖿ᥙᥴkіᥒg ᥣі𝗍𝗍ᥣᥱ m᥆ᥒs𝗍ᥱr."
Holly truly knows how to write a fantasy novel and get you HOOKED. This is truly such an amazing story, yes it’s dark but so beautiful. The smut is absolutely immaculate, per usual.
Shadow daddy with tendrils & a forked tongue?!? HEHE YES PLEASE/
THAT FUCKING ENDING???? I need more asap and more in shadows POV. I’m so excited for what is to come!
𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕖, 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕒𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕.
𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕒 𝕧𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕞.
𝕀 𝕕𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕀 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕.
𝕀 𝕕𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕢𝕦𝕚𝕖𝕥 𝕠𝕣 𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕚𝕕 𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟.
𝕀 𝕔𝕒𝕟 𝕥𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕀’𝕞 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙 𝕚𝕥 𝕤𝕚𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕪 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕥.
❤️𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲
✨𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐱 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫
❤️𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲
✨𝐝𝐮𝐛𝐜𝐨𝐧
❤️𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲
October 23, 2025
First and foremost I want to state that I rate books on the respect of how they're written. I cannot say I enjoyed this book as I was in turmoil the majority of this book but Holly knows how to wow to keep me going in anticipation.
With that being said this is by far one of the darkest dark romantasy books I have ever read. It was warned this was teetering toward some pitch black and darker than morally grey and it hit the mark for me.
This book is darkly taboo and sinister. Shadow and Evie have a very possessive and toxic relationship throughout this story and it is wicked. It is cruel and vile but my goodness does Holly know how to write monster smutt!!! Even though, gruesome and definitely questionable in the psych department this book is definitely not for those who can't get too much darker than morally grey. Evie and Shadow are tainted and so very dark. Please for all the sunshine in the world ... READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!!!!!!
I think I will need to sleep with a nightlight for a while 🫣✨️📚✨️
With that being said this is by far one of the darkest dark romantasy books I have ever read. It was warned this was teetering toward some pitch black and darker than morally grey and it hit the mark for me.
This book is darkly taboo and sinister. Shadow and Evie have a very possessive and toxic relationship throughout this story and it is wicked. It is cruel and vile but my goodness does Holly know how to write monster smutt!!! Even though, gruesome and definitely questionable in the psych department this book is definitely not for those who can't get too much darker than morally grey. Evie and Shadow are tainted and so very dark. Please for all the sunshine in the world ... READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!!!!!!
I think I will need to sleep with a nightlight for a while 🫣✨️📚✨️
October 30, 2025
Monsters Inc ADULT version 😊. Let me tell you, this will make you think about the monsters under the bed, in the closet, in the shadows... very differently.
Spicy story telling at its halloween best!
5 🌟 Characters
5 🌟 world building
5 🌟 storyline
5 🌶 spice
💯% recommend
Spicy story telling at its halloween best!
5 🌟 Characters
5 🌟 world building
5 🌟 storyline
5 🌶 spice
💯% recommend
October 24, 2025
After reading Hollys Lost Girl series and Vegas Immortals series, I thought I knew what kind of read this was going to be. So, I got the ARC and prepared to enjoy some spice and intrigue, with some laughter. Y’all, there was definitely spice, hotter than the hottest pepper in the world. But the rest, nope. Holly freaking wrecked me, got me in a chokehold and never let go. This is so different from what I’m used to reading from her and she freaking blew me out of the water, the sky, the universe. I kept looking under my bed for my very own darkly dangerous, forbidden, forked tongued, monstrous anatomy, Shadow daddy. If you have no triggers, love a protector that’ll kill for you in the most violent way and then take you in the blood of his victims, this book won’t disappoint. Definitely read the trigger warnings. This book has gore, violence, an emotionally abused FMC, both mental and physical. It’s definitely an extremely dark book and I can’t wait for Volume 2!
October 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ For dark romance with smut readers this will hit all the right spots.
I don’t think I’m sold on the main characters. From reading this section of the story, there is a lot still unknown about both of them, and most problems are solved with sex and murder. I feel a little confused, because there was lots of information, but I don’t think a lot of it related to what will become the main story.
I don’t think I’m sold on the main characters. From reading this section of the story, there is a lot still unknown about both of them, and most problems are solved with sex and murder. I feel a little confused, because there was lots of information, but I don’t think a lot of it related to what will become the main story.
November 9, 2025
I enjoyed the smut.
The book had a lot of potential.
But the story overall started to feel predictable.
The FMC has the same tragic childhood abuse backstory that shows up in so many female characters.
As the plot went on, it was just one awful event after another. It feel more exhausting than emotionally impactful.
The FMC's inner monolog became so cringe and I found myself rolling my eyes frequently in the last quarter of the book.
And when her situation finally improved, she came across as self-absorbed and ungrateful.
The book had a lot of potential.
But the story overall started to feel predictable.
The FMC has the same tragic childhood abuse backstory that shows up in so many female characters.
As the plot went on, it was just one awful event after another. It feel more exhausting than emotionally impactful.
The FMC's inner monolog became so cringe and I found myself rolling my eyes frequently in the last quarter of the book.
And when her situation finally improved, she came across as self-absorbed and ungrateful.
October 30, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Before I start this review I want to take a second to say please check the trigger warnings in this book. It is a dark romance with many things that some may find triggering!
That being said this book absolutely kept me reading from beginning to end with no breaks! It will keep you on the edge of your seat, the tips of your toes, and reading pages as quickly as you can just waiting to see and wanting to know what is going to happen next! If you’re looking for a read with characters who don’t just walk the line or morally grey but cross the line into morally black with no regrets, a generous serving of spice, so many twists and turns that you’ll never be sure what’s going to happen next and a crazy cliffhanger of an ending that left me wanting to see what happens next immediately, then Monster Under My Bed is one I would highly recommend adding this to your TBR now!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Before I start this review I want to take a second to say please check the trigger warnings in this book. It is a dark romance with many things that some may find triggering!
That being said this book absolutely kept me reading from beginning to end with no breaks! It will keep you on the edge of your seat, the tips of your toes, and reading pages as quickly as you can just waiting to see and wanting to know what is going to happen next! If you’re looking for a read with characters who don’t just walk the line or morally grey but cross the line into morally black with no regrets, a generous serving of spice, so many twists and turns that you’ll never be sure what’s going to happen next and a crazy cliffhanger of an ending that left me wanting to see what happens next immediately, then Monster Under My Bed is one I would highly recommend adding this to your TBR now!
October 30, 2025
Author Holly Roberds has such a wicked sense of humor! Here is a smidge of an example from the Dedication page: “If you read this, congrats. You’re the red flag, babe.” —I love it!
‘Monster Under My Bed’ brings us Shadow, a monster, and Evie, a human. Their relationship is … complicated. Amongst its many complicated layers there’s devotion, obsession, passion, yearning.
Then insecurity sneaks in. Doubts sink its bloody claws. And there’s that dreadful cliffhanger—leaving us wanting.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Shadow
FMC:
✨Evie
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨Cliffhanger
Tropes:
👉paranormal monster romance
👉touch her and ☠️
👉obsessive fmc
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
💥violence
💥death
Burn Speed:
✨fast - ish
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF
‘Monster Under My Bed’ brings us Shadow, a monster, and Evie, a human. Their relationship is … complicated. Amongst its many complicated layers there’s devotion, obsession, passion, yearning.
Then insecurity sneaks in. Doubts sink its bloody claws. And there’s that dreadful cliffhanger—leaving us wanting.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Shadow
FMC:
✨Evie
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨Cliffhanger
Tropes:
👉paranormal monster romance
👉touch her and ☠️
👉obsessive fmc
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
💥violence
💥death
Burn Speed:
✨fast - ish
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF
October 31, 2025
Monster Under My Bed, Volume 1
If you like monster smut and you like them dark (think pitch black dark) then this is for you! Dark and spicy🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. The trigger warnings are for real! I’ve read other books by Holly so I was excited to receive this arc. I’ve read a few dark romance before but this was a new experience for me. I felt the FMC was a little narcissistic and while there is character development, it’s not good development. She gets more selfish as the book progressed and then there’s Shadow. I really wish there had been more about him and maybe there will be more in volume 2. I’m not sure what the story is really about since there’s nothing really mentioned beyond their toxic, gory relationship. I’ve not been disappointed by a Holly book, yet, so I’m hopeful Volume 1 was just a really slow build up and Volume 2 gives us the underlying story.
If you like monster smut and you like them dark (think pitch black dark) then this is for you! Dark and spicy🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. The trigger warnings are for real! I’ve read other books by Holly so I was excited to receive this arc. I’ve read a few dark romance before but this was a new experience for me. I felt the FMC was a little narcissistic and while there is character development, it’s not good development. She gets more selfish as the book progressed and then there’s Shadow. I really wish there had been more about him and maybe there will be more in volume 2. I’m not sure what the story is really about since there’s nothing really mentioned beyond their toxic, gory relationship. I’ve not been disappointed by a Holly book, yet, so I’m hopeful Volume 1 was just a really slow build up and Volume 2 gives us the underlying story.
January 3, 2026
I could not put this book down when I started it. That being said, it did get a little repetitive at times and the FMC pissed me off towards the end. But am I going to read the next one? Heck yeah. Got to know where it goes after the cliff hanger.
November 1, 2025
⭐⭐⭐
ARC Review
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Monster romance isn’t my usual cup of tea and yet I enjoyed this.
It is a very dark story, and it’s probably the dark aspects I enjoyed most. The darkness underlines the plot keeping it intriguing and entertaining for the most part.
I did feel the pacing was off in a few places and these bits were hard to get through. There were also a few places where you could tell the story was originally released a chapter at a time on Patreon, which interrupted the flow.
However, the two main characters are well written with lots of depth which help you to overlook these aspects. There is also great tension between them, which leads to some wonderful spicy scenes (which of course Holly is known for).
I’m looking forward to where the series takes us, especially after the cliffhanger!
Themes/Tropes:
Monster Romance, Paranormal, Good vs Evil, Chosen One, Dark, Damsel in Distress, Tragic Backstory, Emotional Scars, Touch Her & Die, Unhinged MC, Demons/Monsters & Multiworld.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
5/5 🌶
ARC Review
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Monster romance isn’t my usual cup of tea and yet I enjoyed this.
It is a very dark story, and it’s probably the dark aspects I enjoyed most. The darkness underlines the plot keeping it intriguing and entertaining for the most part.
I did feel the pacing was off in a few places and these bits were hard to get through. There were also a few places where you could tell the story was originally released a chapter at a time on Patreon, which interrupted the flow.
However, the two main characters are well written with lots of depth which help you to overlook these aspects. There is also great tension between them, which leads to some wonderful spicy scenes (which of course Holly is known for).
I’m looking forward to where the series takes us, especially after the cliffhanger!
Themes/Tropes:
Monster Romance, Paranormal, Good vs Evil, Chosen One, Dark, Damsel in Distress, Tragic Backstory, Emotional Scars, Touch Her & Die, Unhinged MC, Demons/Monsters & Multiworld.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
5/5 🌶
October 30, 2025
I give this book 4 stars, and 4 chili peppers. This book is full to the brim with spicy Monster smut, so be prepared! Trigger warnings page-very important.
I am not a fan of cliffhangers! Write the next installment Holly, quick please!
This book was a solid 5 in my book until the FMC’s attitude took a dip in the last 60 pages.
It took the book to a 4, for me. The FMC has had a hard life, and so it's to be expected that she will not be sunshine and roses.
Actually her choosing to embrace her darkness is part of why I liked her character. But, she turns downright awful and condescending at the end. The MMC Monster is so loyal and awesome, and she is just not. Shadow is a fantastic lead, and truly is a hero in monster form.
The author’s attention to detail is fantastic, and I do love little touches of softness as well, like Snarp and the cat. The story is also unique and interesting.
I’m grateful to have been chosen as an ARC reader, as this Author is stellar.
I am not a fan of cliffhangers! Write the next installment Holly, quick please!
This book was a solid 5 in my book until the FMC’s attitude took a dip in the last 60 pages.
It took the book to a 4, for me. The FMC has had a hard life, and so it's to be expected that she will not be sunshine and roses.
Actually her choosing to embrace her darkness is part of why I liked her character. But, she turns downright awful and condescending at the end. The MMC Monster is so loyal and awesome, and she is just not. Shadow is a fantastic lead, and truly is a hero in monster form.
The author’s attention to detail is fantastic, and I do love little touches of softness as well, like Snarp and the cat. The story is also unique and interesting.
I’m grateful to have been chosen as an ARC reader, as this Author is stellar.
October 30, 2025
❤️🔥MONSTER UNDER MY BED❤️🔥
Volume 1
By: Holly Roberds
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5 Star Review
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 5/5 Spiciness Level
FAVORITE QUOTE(S):
“‘You’re mine now, Evie,’” he claims…"’And I’ll do with you whatever I f** want,’” he snarls.” (Fanning my face… whew!!)
“We take care of each other. Monster to monster.” (Awwwwwww!!)
RECOMMENDATION:
Highly recommended for someone who is in the mood for a pitch black, dark, paranormal monster romance that ends in a brutal cloffhanger!
GENRE, POV, TROPES, PAGE COUNT:
This book is a dark monster romance. Very dark so check trigger warnings if needed. The POV is from Evie and in the first-person. There are fun chapter titles. The timeline shifts between the present and significant happenings chronologically as Evie is growing up from age 4 to 17. Tropes include very dark elements, murder, shadow daddy, some BDSM, monster MMC, age-gap and it ends in a cliffhanger. Approximately 415 pages long.
FMC:
Evie is 21 years old. She lost her parents when she was still a baby. She lives alone in a crappy apartment with a creepy slumlord husband & wife. She is impoverished and has serious mental health issues most likely from copious amounts of abuse within foster families while growing up. She truly hits rock bottom or whatever bottom is even below that. She thinks crazy thoughts and does crazy things. Her morality and innocence was shattered at a very early age that rocketed her down a very difficult path in life. Her “Shadow” is everything to her, but they have a tumultuous relationship. No matter how many times she tries to follow him through the portal it doesn’t stay open for her.
MMC:
Shadow, My Shadow or Umbra is a cosmic entity who appears as a shadow from under Evie’s bed. He has a very bad temper and is very protective of Evie. He has broken many rules with his relationship with her. A lot is not known about him, but I think that will change in volume 2! We do know he must eat hearts to maintain any sort of humanity.
STORYLINE/PLOT:
At the beginning of the book, out of complete desperation, Evie brings a man back to her apartment with plans to seduce him hoping it will coax Shadow to return. He’s been absent for 4 long years, left Evie when she was 17 after a significant event.
Evie was only four years old the first time Shadow showed himself. He came every time she needed him and they developed a very caring relationship, like he was her fairy god monster. So for him to have just abandoned her at the worst time of her life, why would she want him to come back? Right, it’s because him being there is the only way she feels safe.
She’s also beginning to have “other” feelings when it comes to her shadow… hint hint. It’s obvious he also has feelings for her other than simple protection, but he is adamant it is forbidden to have any sort of intimate relationship with her. It is a bit taboo considering she was so young when he began coming to her. So it’s like he was in a position similar to a parent… can’t think of the right word here. Because of this he is absolutely against any sort of intimate relationship even though she is all grown up now. She wants him though and she is very persuasive! He does hold out for quite a while!
When other magical creatures begin entering from the same portal under Evie’s bed, things get rather crazy! I loved the whole scenes with these other monsters!!!
Oh yeah, Evie tries to begin a relationship with a coworker’s relative, Miguel. He seems like a complete cinnamon roll, not judging, not rushing, just being a consistent friend who makes it clear he wants more from her but only when she is ready. The problem is she has given her whole heart to her shadow.
I will not spoil what happens but there are some serious twists and turns I never saw coming. Truly an amazing read! Our girl Evie is a BAD ASS in ALL CAPS! She’s kinda crazy too tho, I just love her! I love Shadow too, there is so much more to him and I HAVE to know more!!
SPICY CONTENT:
This author writes some amazing spice in her books! This one is so hottt and monster smut is the best smut, seriously! AND a shadow daddy?!!! Yesssss ma’am, I am HERE. FOR. IT!!!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW & TIME LENGTH:
No audiobook at the time of this review.
THANKS:
Thank you Holly Roberds for another amazing read!!
I seriously can’t wait for volume 2 to come out!!
Happy Reading! ♥☻
Volume 1
By: Holly Roberds
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5 Star Review
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 5/5 Spiciness Level
FAVORITE QUOTE(S):
“‘You’re mine now, Evie,’” he claims…"’And I’ll do with you whatever I f** want,’” he snarls.” (Fanning my face… whew!!)
“We take care of each other. Monster to monster.” (Awwwwwww!!)
RECOMMENDATION:
Highly recommended for someone who is in the mood for a pitch black, dark, paranormal monster romance that ends in a brutal cloffhanger!
GENRE, POV, TROPES, PAGE COUNT:
This book is a dark monster romance. Very dark so check trigger warnings if needed. The POV is from Evie and in the first-person. There are fun chapter titles. The timeline shifts between the present and significant happenings chronologically as Evie is growing up from age 4 to 17. Tropes include very dark elements, murder, shadow daddy, some BDSM, monster MMC, age-gap and it ends in a cliffhanger. Approximately 415 pages long.
FMC:
Evie is 21 years old. She lost her parents when she was still a baby. She lives alone in a crappy apartment with a creepy slumlord husband & wife. She is impoverished and has serious mental health issues most likely from copious amounts of abuse within foster families while growing up. She truly hits rock bottom or whatever bottom is even below that. She thinks crazy thoughts and does crazy things. Her morality and innocence was shattered at a very early age that rocketed her down a very difficult path in life. Her “Shadow” is everything to her, but they have a tumultuous relationship. No matter how many times she tries to follow him through the portal it doesn’t stay open for her.
MMC:
Shadow, My Shadow or Umbra is a cosmic entity who appears as a shadow from under Evie’s bed. He has a very bad temper and is very protective of Evie. He has broken many rules with his relationship with her. A lot is not known about him, but I think that will change in volume 2! We do know he must eat hearts to maintain any sort of humanity.
STORYLINE/PLOT:
At the beginning of the book, out of complete desperation, Evie brings a man back to her apartment with plans to seduce him hoping it will coax Shadow to return. He’s been absent for 4 long years, left Evie when she was 17 after a significant event.
Evie was only four years old the first time Shadow showed himself. He came every time she needed him and they developed a very caring relationship, like he was her fairy god monster. So for him to have just abandoned her at the worst time of her life, why would she want him to come back? Right, it’s because him being there is the only way she feels safe.
She’s also beginning to have “other” feelings when it comes to her shadow… hint hint. It’s obvious he also has feelings for her other than simple protection, but he is adamant it is forbidden to have any sort of intimate relationship with her. It is a bit taboo considering she was so young when he began coming to her. So it’s like he was in a position similar to a parent… can’t think of the right word here. Because of this he is absolutely against any sort of intimate relationship even though she is all grown up now. She wants him though and she is very persuasive! He does hold out for quite a while!
When other magical creatures begin entering from the same portal under Evie’s bed, things get rather crazy! I loved the whole scenes with these other monsters!!!
Oh yeah, Evie tries to begin a relationship with a coworker’s relative, Miguel. He seems like a complete cinnamon roll, not judging, not rushing, just being a consistent friend who makes it clear he wants more from her but only when she is ready. The problem is she has given her whole heart to her shadow.
I will not spoil what happens but there are some serious twists and turns I never saw coming. Truly an amazing read! Our girl Evie is a BAD ASS in ALL CAPS! She’s kinda crazy too tho, I just love her! I love Shadow too, there is so much more to him and I HAVE to know more!!
SPICY CONTENT:
This author writes some amazing spice in her books! This one is so hottt and monster smut is the best smut, seriously! AND a shadow daddy?!!! Yesssss ma’am, I am HERE. FOR. IT!!!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW & TIME LENGTH:
No audiobook at the time of this review.
THANKS:
Thank you Holly Roberds for another amazing read!!
I seriously can’t wait for volume 2 to come out!!
Happy Reading! ♥☻
December 29, 2025
As an avid Lost Girls reader, this was a whole new side of Holly Roberds I had not yet come across… and I loved it! Holly has been able to stretch her claws a bit with this one, and lean more to the darker side. It was open, raw, gritty, and it shines a stark light on the darkness that can reside in people. The list of TWs should be read and are thoroughly relevant.
The story follows Evie and her otherworldly protector Shadow who has watched over her all her life. While Shadow is a closed book and remains an enigma, he is the only solid foundation Evie has ever known. Evie has grown up in the foster system and is left with many traumas courtesy of the people in her life. As Evie matures, her wants and needs from her relationship with Shadow also mature. But there is a darkness in Evie that is also blossoming. When Shadow’s world starts to bleed into Evie’s, and the monsters start to emerge, Evie must decide how much of her humanity she wants to keep.
Much the same as Holly’s other books, she is a master builder of worlds and that I always enjoy immersing myself into. Evie’s character is delicately woven to create someone who is touch starved, affection starved and highly codependent. The coercive control and manipulative behaviours are very well depicted, and the reader can really understand where all this toxic behaviour stems from.
The voice acting is superb. Michelle Sparks and Gregory Salinas are perfect for these roles. Michelle embodies Evie’s personality and raw, highly-strung emotions so well, and Gregory’s ability to provide nuance and feelings with growling words is fantastic.
This does end on a cliffhanger, and now I impatiently await the next in the series.
Thank you to Holly Roberds and the team for giving me this audiobook as an Advanced Listener Copy in exchange for my honest review
The story follows Evie and her otherworldly protector Shadow who has watched over her all her life. While Shadow is a closed book and remains an enigma, he is the only solid foundation Evie has ever known. Evie has grown up in the foster system and is left with many traumas courtesy of the people in her life. As Evie matures, her wants and needs from her relationship with Shadow also mature. But there is a darkness in Evie that is also blossoming. When Shadow’s world starts to bleed into Evie’s, and the monsters start to emerge, Evie must decide how much of her humanity she wants to keep.
Much the same as Holly’s other books, she is a master builder of worlds and that I always enjoy immersing myself into. Evie’s character is delicately woven to create someone who is touch starved, affection starved and highly codependent. The coercive control and manipulative behaviours are very well depicted, and the reader can really understand where all this toxic behaviour stems from.
The voice acting is superb. Michelle Sparks and Gregory Salinas are perfect for these roles. Michelle embodies Evie’s personality and raw, highly-strung emotions so well, and Gregory’s ability to provide nuance and feelings with growling words is fantastic.
This does end on a cliffhanger, and now I impatiently await the next in the series.
Thank you to Holly Roberds and the team for giving me this audiobook as an Advanced Listener Copy in exchange for my honest review
October 31, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* Monster x human
* Forced proximity
* Forbidden romance
* Touch her and d!e
* Shadow daddy
Thank you Holly Roberds for this eARC! I have enjoyed everything I’ve read from her and this one was dark and different, but a very strong dark romance! Be mindful of the trigger warnings-there is a good deal in the list, but worth it if you’re able!
Evie is a tragically beautiful FMC, and I really felt for her as she recounts her past in vivid flashbacks, and how she grows a bond that goes beyond just care and protection as she gets older. While that may sound strange, it’s a progression that doesn’t feel as gross as I first thought. While Shadow and Evie have a relationship that at times can be very trying and frustrating at the beginning, once things pick up, they get hot, steamy, and suspenseful real quick!!
As she learns the truth about Shadow, and herself, the book got better for me. I think the first half was very sad and dealt with a lot of traumatizing experiences for her. To see him finally accept how he feels about Evie and break his world’s rules for her, I bought into their relationship much more.
Don’t get me wrong. This book is dark and twisted, it’s moody and such good monster smut! But the romance between them is also strong, and that cliffhanger had me reeling when I realized I’d have to wait for the next book!!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* Monster x human
* Forced proximity
* Forbidden romance
* Touch her and d!e
* Shadow daddy
Thank you Holly Roberds for this eARC! I have enjoyed everything I’ve read from her and this one was dark and different, but a very strong dark romance! Be mindful of the trigger warnings-there is a good deal in the list, but worth it if you’re able!
Evie is a tragically beautiful FMC, and I really felt for her as she recounts her past in vivid flashbacks, and how she grows a bond that goes beyond just care and protection as she gets older. While that may sound strange, it’s a progression that doesn’t feel as gross as I first thought. While Shadow and Evie have a relationship that at times can be very trying and frustrating at the beginning, once things pick up, they get hot, steamy, and suspenseful real quick!!
As she learns the truth about Shadow, and herself, the book got better for me. I think the first half was very sad and dealt with a lot of traumatizing experiences for her. To see him finally accept how he feels about Evie and break his world’s rules for her, I bought into their relationship much more.
Don’t get me wrong. This book is dark and twisted, it’s moody and such good monster smut! But the romance between them is also strong, and that cliffhanger had me reeling when I realized I’d have to wait for the next book!!
November 13, 2025
This book surprised me. I went in expecting monster kink and got a raw, emotionally complex story about trauma, obsession, and the fragile line between protection and possession.
Evie’s descent into darkness is palpable, but so is her fight to reclaim herself.
Shadow is ruthless and fiercely protective of Evie, he isn’t just a lover—he’s a mirror, a guardian, and a challenge.
Their bond is messy, obsessive, and strangely beautiful. It’s not a traditional romance, but it’s one that lingers.
This book does end on one hell of a cliffhanger.
Tropes
• Monster romance with emotional depth
• Childhood protector turned adult obsession
• Possessive but protective dynamic
• Trauma healing through unconventional love
• Touch her and he will eat you
Triggers Warnings
• Childhood abuse and neglect
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• Blood and violence (non-gratuitous but intense)
• Dubious consent themes (handled with care)
• Dark sexual content and power imbalance
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
Evie’s descent into darkness is palpable, but so is her fight to reclaim herself.
Shadow is ruthless and fiercely protective of Evie, he isn’t just a lover—he’s a mirror, a guardian, and a challenge.
Their bond is messy, obsessive, and strangely beautiful. It’s not a traditional romance, but it’s one that lingers.
This book does end on one hell of a cliffhanger.
Tropes
• Monster romance with emotional depth
• Childhood protector turned adult obsession
• Possessive but protective dynamic
• Trauma healing through unconventional love
• Touch her and he will eat you
Triggers Warnings
• Childhood abuse and neglect
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• Blood and violence (non-gratuitous but intense)
• Dubious consent themes (handled with care)
• Dark sexual content and power imbalance
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
October 25, 2025
10 ⭐️
Oh, Roberds ABSOLUTELY must be lacing her books with something unholy, because I was feral for this one from the very first page. I’m convinced she sprinkled powdered addiction between the chapters. 😮💨
This dark paranormal romance slinks right under your skin —literally 😌— because Shadow (our MMC) lives under the FMC’s bed. A shadow demon sworn to guard the veil between realms, he breaks every celestial law when he chooses to protect a crying little girl abandoned to the horrors of the foster system. What begins as a promise made in darkness turns into a forbidden devotion that defies the realms.
Years later, Evie is grown. He’s gone. And her nightmares have started whispering again. Her emptiness from missing her only true friend and protector growing into something feral and forbidden.
This story is equal parts tender, tragic, and sinful. Roberds gives us a heroine who has fought for every breath she’s ever taken, and a monster who would burn his own shadows to keep her safe. We are served electric tension, yearning that will make you question your morals and spice that… Well let’s just say, if you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to be worshiped by the darkness itself… Shadow is the perfect MMC to show you.
Every secret cut deep, every betrayal scorched, and every longing felt like a curse. It’s Monsters Inc., if the monster was a gorgeous, morally charcoal shadow daddy who makes you question every boundary you thought you had.
This one is definitely for readers who love the “they would burn the world down for each other“ trope.
Oh, Roberds ABSOLUTELY must be lacing her books with something unholy, because I was feral for this one from the very first page. I’m convinced she sprinkled powdered addiction between the chapters. 😮💨
This dark paranormal romance slinks right under your skin —literally 😌— because Shadow (our MMC) lives under the FMC’s bed. A shadow demon sworn to guard the veil between realms, he breaks every celestial law when he chooses to protect a crying little girl abandoned to the horrors of the foster system. What begins as a promise made in darkness turns into a forbidden devotion that defies the realms.
Years later, Evie is grown. He’s gone. And her nightmares have started whispering again. Her emptiness from missing her only true friend and protector growing into something feral and forbidden.
This story is equal parts tender, tragic, and sinful. Roberds gives us a heroine who has fought for every breath she’s ever taken, and a monster who would burn his own shadows to keep her safe. We are served electric tension, yearning that will make you question your morals and spice that… Well let’s just say, if you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to be worshiped by the darkness itself… Shadow is the perfect MMC to show you.
Every secret cut deep, every betrayal scorched, and every longing felt like a curse. It’s Monsters Inc., if the monster was a gorgeous, morally charcoal shadow daddy who makes you question every boundary you thought you had.
This one is definitely for readers who love the “they would burn the world down for each other“ trope.
November 7, 2025
All I can say is WOW!!! I love Holly and will read anything she writes and this book is no exception, although I will say the Monster Smut trope isn’t my thing. I gave it a try and it’s just not for me, which is why it took me a little longer to read this book, (I got it as an ARC read) Holly I apologize for taking so long to write up my review, I was a little slow in reading this book as I had to take breaks and set it aside for a little bit. I love the characters and the storyline is fantastic and had me hooked, I just wasn’t into the monster/human love story part, it threw me off a little bit and I kept thinking is Shadow was a mafia king pin then I would be really into it lol. I will continue reading the next volume because well 1st it’s Holly Roberds and 2nd I have to know what happens after being left on that cliff hanger.
November 11, 2025
This is probably the darkest story by Holly I have read. So many themes of abuse, trauma, isolation and poverty partnered with BDSM focused on blood play and finding pleasure in harms. I really liked Evie and Shadow with their very unique connection, but at times I found some events unsettling. And yes, I did read the trigger warning. Descriptions and situations were so rich with morally grey/dark events we may think about subconsciously yet purposely turn away from. The way things unfolded with the Nexus and Nightmare realm, I am curious how things will be addressed.
I received an ARC and voluntarily am sharing my honest review.
I received an ARC and voluntarily am sharing my honest review.
October 22, 2025
Yess! I need the next book ASAP!
I am obsessed I mean the FMC is such a fighter and Shadow the monster under her bed was Tortured, fighting his morals, protecting her, Rough and honest and everything she needed to get through the hardship of life.
I loved the storyline it was heartbreaking at moments and her resilience was truly inspiring, the ending is absolutely killing me 🤣😭 and the writing was just perfection!
I definitely recommend trying this book out!
Not to mention how fun is the monster under her bed concept! I LOVE IT!
I am obsessed I mean the FMC is such a fighter and Shadow the monster under her bed was Tortured, fighting his morals, protecting her, Rough and honest and everything she needed to get through the hardship of life.
I loved the storyline it was heartbreaking at moments and her resilience was truly inspiring, the ending is absolutely killing me 🤣😭 and the writing was just perfection!
I definitely recommend trying this book out!
Not to mention how fun is the monster under her bed concept! I LOVE IT!
October 25, 2025
This book was dark and the topics dealt with are not for the faint. Read the TWs!
It is a DARK monster romance with a broken, but still breathing FMC, who has never gotten a break in her relatively short life. The only good thing to ever happen to her is the appearance of a literal monster under her bed as a child - and that in itself is saying a lot.
You can't help but feel deeply for Evie and admire her resilience, and to an extent even sympathize with the morally grey person she turns into, because everyone has a limit after which they can no longer be "Mrs. Nice Girl". She is such a strong, young woman who simply yearns for love and security.
And Shadow - intense, possessive, obsessive, monstrous and mysterious.
And the spice between them?! Hopefully the sprinklers are working because those two are on fire! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This was an intense read, not a happy one - although there is a shimmer of hope on the horizon for Evie and her Monster. The books ends on a major cliff hanger that literally has you hanging on the edge of your seat. Hopefully the sequel gives us more of Shadow's backstory, because now we are completely invested in their story!
Would recommend to dark romantasy readers, who like black souls, unhinged characters and dirty spice.
It is a DARK monster romance with a broken, but still breathing FMC, who has never gotten a break in her relatively short life. The only good thing to ever happen to her is the appearance of a literal monster under her bed as a child - and that in itself is saying a lot.
You can't help but feel deeply for Evie and admire her resilience, and to an extent even sympathize with the morally grey person she turns into, because everyone has a limit after which they can no longer be "Mrs. Nice Girl". She is such a strong, young woman who simply yearns for love and security.
And Shadow - intense, possessive, obsessive, monstrous and mysterious.
And the spice between them?! Hopefully the sprinklers are working because those two are on fire! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This was an intense read, not a happy one - although there is a shimmer of hope on the horizon for Evie and her Monster. The books ends on a major cliff hanger that literally has you hanging on the edge of your seat. Hopefully the sequel gives us more of Shadow's backstory, because now we are completely invested in their story!
Would recommend to dark romantasy readers, who like black souls, unhinged characters and dirty spice.
October 28, 2025
Story 4.5 ⭐️
Spice 5 🌶️
Monster Under My Bed is about Evie and Shadow, the monster under her bed. Evie has been through hell in her life and things just continue to get worse for her as monsters begin to hunt her.
This story has lots of spice (which can get a bit weird at times being a monster romance), tension, suspense, and action. There are lots of flashbacks included to let you know how Evie and Shadow met, and how he became so important to her. Not much is known of the nightmare realm, yet, but the ending suggests the nightmare realm will be a much larger part of book two (hopefully).
Be warned, Monster Under My Bed ends in a cliffhanger.
I received a copy of Monster Under My Bed as an ARC via Holly Roberds and her team.
Spice 5 🌶️
Monster Under My Bed is about Evie and Shadow, the monster under her bed. Evie has been through hell in her life and things just continue to get worse for her as monsters begin to hunt her.
This story has lots of spice (which can get a bit weird at times being a monster romance), tension, suspense, and action. There are lots of flashbacks included to let you know how Evie and Shadow met, and how he became so important to her. Not much is known of the nightmare realm, yet, but the ending suggests the nightmare realm will be a much larger part of book two (hopefully).
Be warned, Monster Under My Bed ends in a cliffhanger.
I received a copy of Monster Under My Bed as an ARC via Holly Roberds and her team.
November 6, 2025
once again Holly didnt disappoint. Dragged me into the story made me fall in love with the characters and left me panting for more!!! I just need to know when the next book is out!!!
October 23, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Review: This book was like any other I have read before. It was dark, alluring, and great from start to finish. The world building was fantastic and also a mystery because we don't get answers or even a peek into the other realm till much later in the book.
Our FMC Evie had my heart constantly breaking into a million pieces for her. The way she was treated in the foster system and the things she had to endure kept my eyes watering with tears. All she wanted was to be loved and not alone.
Enter our MMC Shadow. He's dark, broody, and sent to protect her at all costs. Until he breaks a major rule and disappears from her life for 4 years. Now he's back but on the run.
These two together had all the best chemistry. They pushed each other sometimes almost to their breaking points even when it was breaking them. He would do anything for her and she for him.
If you are looking for a spooky season rec then this one is perfect. If none of this convinces you then let me just say two words. Shadow Tentacles! This makes me want my own personal monster under my bed.
Thank you so much to this phenomenal author for allowing me to ARC read for this book. There isn't a single thing I haven't read by Holly that I didn't love.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Review: This book was like any other I have read before. It was dark, alluring, and great from start to finish. The world building was fantastic and also a mystery because we don't get answers or even a peek into the other realm till much later in the book.
Our FMC Evie had my heart constantly breaking into a million pieces for her. The way she was treated in the foster system and the things she had to endure kept my eyes watering with tears. All she wanted was to be loved and not alone.
Enter our MMC Shadow. He's dark, broody, and sent to protect her at all costs. Until he breaks a major rule and disappears from her life for 4 years. Now he's back but on the run.
These two together had all the best chemistry. They pushed each other sometimes almost to their breaking points even when it was breaking them. He would do anything for her and she for him.
If you are looking for a spooky season rec then this one is perfect. If none of this convinces you then let me just say two words. Shadow Tentacles! This makes me want my own personal monster under my bed.
Thank you so much to this phenomenal author for allowing me to ARC read for this book. There isn't a single thing I haven't read by Holly that I didn't love.
October 30, 2025
I struggled with rating this book. I didn't love it but, I didn't hate it either.
It just - it just didn't HIT the mark for me, I felt the "build up" was drawn out and it was one of those books were it felt like there was just way more "filler" than there really needed to be, I know many people love that - I am just not one of those people.
For me, it was a bit like when you see previews/trailers for movies and then you watch the show and you realize that those were the best/only moments and really all they had to draw you in...
That might be a bit too harsh though (I already told you I struggled, remember!?), overall it was decent and even though I was less than impressed with the MFC from midpoint on, I'll probably keep the series flagged and give book two a chance when it comes along.
It just - it just didn't HIT the mark for me, I felt the "build up" was drawn out and it was one of those books were it felt like there was just way more "filler" than there really needed to be, I know many people love that - I am just not one of those people.
For me, it was a bit like when you see previews/trailers for movies and then you watch the show and you realize that those were the best/only moments and really all they had to draw you in...
That might be a bit too harsh though (I already told you I struggled, remember!?), overall it was decent and even though I was less than impressed with the MFC from midpoint on, I'll probably keep the series flagged and give book two a chance when it comes along.
November 4, 2025
I received this book as an ARC and Holly Roberds has done it again! This is such an awesome book! I wasn't sure how I felt about monster romance before I started this book, but I am really glad I took the time to read this story. Evie and her monster made me root for their romance and the cliff hanger had me biting my fingernails in anticipation. I cannot wait for the next book!
November 2, 2025
I really tried to like this book. I’m a fan of other books by this author but I just couldn’t get into it. The mfc gave “pick me” vibes and “I’m not like other girls” energy the whole book. I honestly found her annoying. The mmc annoyed me too. He kept secrets for no reason and the reason he tried to give seemed stupid. I give this one 2.3 stars.
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