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The Shades of Sanctuary #2.7
A Minotaur Tale: In Prose, Being a Monster Romance for Yuletide
"Expect the first gift when the bell tolls one."
All Cora wants for Yule is a few more shells for her collection, a cozy book by the fire, and t̶o̶ b̶e̶ s̶p̶o̶i̶l̶e̶d̶ b̶y̶ a̶ m̶i̶n̶o̶t̶a̶u̶r̶ to avoid the Yuletide Ball.
Nymphs are supposed to be fun and flirty, but Cora has always been shy, bookish, and serious. If only Asterion, the minotaur of her dreams, would set his cap at someone else before she can disappoint him—like everyone else who has discovered her proclivity toward speeches on the differences between clams and mussels.
Just when it seems she's successfully dissuaded him, on the eve of her loneliest holiday yet, she comes across a package on her doorstep, detailing Asterion's plan to woo
Three gifts, one night, one chance to prove he really sees her.
"A Minotaur Tale in Prose. Being a Monster Romance for Yuletide" by Kass O'Shire is a cozy, gaslamp, holiday novella featuring a plus-sized nymph on the autism spectrum, and the cinnamon roll minotaur determined to prove that he loves her for all of who she is. With callbacks to A Christmas Carol, substituting spoiling for spectres, it's sure to become your favorite spicy tradition for heating up the holidays. Preorder it now to ensure your holiday enjoyment!
All Cora wants for Yule is a few more shells for her collection, a cozy book by the fire, and t̶o̶ b̶e̶ s̶p̶o̶i̶l̶e̶d̶ b̶y̶ a̶ m̶i̶n̶o̶t̶a̶u̶r̶ to avoid the Yuletide Ball.
Nymphs are supposed to be fun and flirty, but Cora has always been shy, bookish, and serious. If only Asterion, the minotaur of her dreams, would set his cap at someone else before she can disappoint him—like everyone else who has discovered her proclivity toward speeches on the differences between clams and mussels.
Just when it seems she's successfully dissuaded him, on the eve of her loneliest holiday yet, she comes across a package on her doorstep, detailing Asterion's plan to woo
Three gifts, one night, one chance to prove he really sees her.
"A Minotaur Tale in Prose. Being a Monster Romance for Yuletide" by Kass O'Shire is a cozy, gaslamp, holiday novella featuring a plus-sized nymph on the autism spectrum, and the cinnamon roll minotaur determined to prove that he loves her for all of who she is. With callbacks to A Christmas Carol, substituting spoiling for spectres, it's sure to become your favorite spicy tradition for heating up the holidays. Preorder it now to ensure your holiday enjoyment!
132 pages, Paperback
Published November 22, 2024
57 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
December 9, 2025
The pining?! This was absolutely scrumptious!
December 5, 2024
This was the cutest holiday short story. Every person deserves a love that is gentle, kind, and understanding. I loved how Asterion eased Cora into courting him, was always giving her a way out if she wanted it, and how she was finally able to let herself fall. I wish we could hear more from them, but as a holiday short this was perfect.
November 15, 2024
A TALL ASF MINOTAUR THAT IS SO SWEET AND THOUGHTFUL AND OBSESSED AND HAS A DIRTY MOUTH? 😍 SIGN 👏🏼ME 👏🏼 UP 👏🏼
I absolutely loved this story, it was so cute and cozy I wanted to cry. Perfect for a nice cozy seasonal read🎄I have been having such a hard time lately in my personal life but this brought me so much joy 🥹
Every other page I was like “oh, babies🥺” Cora is a sweet baby who deserves the best and I’ve seen myself in her when she’s dreaming of a family and someone to be loved by and love. And Aestarion is such a thoughtful king who is so shy and cute (and also has a naughty side which we love), they are both made for eacohother, also slay consent king 👑
It was also very fun to see other characters from the other books in this, I felt so happy to peak into how their little lives were going 🥰
Honestly Kass does it for me every single time, I’m obsessed with her work and have been reading her for a while now, so to be able to have received an ARC copy of her for the first time makes me feel incredibly grateful 🫶🏼
*I kindly received an ARC copy of this book but all my opinions are my own
I absolutely loved this story, it was so cute and cozy I wanted to cry. Perfect for a nice cozy seasonal read🎄I have been having such a hard time lately in my personal life but this brought me so much joy 🥹
Every other page I was like “oh, babies🥺” Cora is a sweet baby who deserves the best and I’ve seen myself in her when she’s dreaming of a family and someone to be loved by and love. And Aestarion is such a thoughtful king who is so shy and cute (and also has a naughty side which we love), they are both made for eacohother, also slay consent king 👑
It was also very fun to see other characters from the other books in this, I felt so happy to peak into how their little lives were going 🥰
Honestly Kass does it for me every single time, I’m obsessed with her work and have been reading her for a while now, so to be able to have received an ARC copy of her for the first time makes me feel incredibly grateful 🫶🏼
*I kindly received an ARC copy of this book but all my opinions are my own
November 15, 2024
Cora was a grouchy neurodivergent librarian and needed mister himbo Minotaur to brighten her life. She found in him someone willing to listen to her info dump. He was also open to changing the way courting was supposed to be done to meet both of their needs. Asterion was goofy and adorable and dreamy AF. I would have loved more time getting to know them in their happy ever after.
Spice: 2/5
Triggers: social isolation and ostracism, ableism (not from MCs, all off page), discussion of infertility of other couple, hyper-sexualization
Spice: 2/5
Triggers: social isolation and ostracism, ableism (not from MCs, all off page), discussion of infertility of other couple, hyper-sexualization
November 14, 2024
『••✎••』
🎄I was kindly given an ARC Copy🎄
↳ 🕯️┊’Cora, I want to give you everything, not just the things that you think you deserve. Everything.’
Kass has done it again, it may be short and sweet but it’s the perfect read for a winters eve. The twist on the tale of the three ghosts as seen in A Christmas Carol - a tale so close to my heart as a Christmas historian was such a beautiful touch to this story. This was a book filled with beautiful details of Yule traditions and other festive customs that had clearly been researched. Cora is a darling and Asterion is determined to win her heart and oh my does this story make you kick your feet as the pair find their way in a festive twist.
If you need a cosy yet spicy festive read this Christmas season, definitely give this short addition to the Shades of Sanctuary universe a read! You will not be disappointed!
🎄I was kindly given an ARC Copy🎄
↳ 🕯️┊’Cora, I want to give you everything, not just the things that you think you deserve. Everything.’
Kass has done it again, it may be short and sweet but it’s the perfect read for a winters eve. The twist on the tale of the three ghosts as seen in A Christmas Carol - a tale so close to my heart as a Christmas historian was such a beautiful touch to this story. This was a book filled with beautiful details of Yule traditions and other festive customs that had clearly been researched. Cora is a darling and Asterion is determined to win her heart and oh my does this story make you kick your feet as the pair find their way in a festive twist.
If you need a cosy yet spicy festive read this Christmas season, definitely give this short addition to the Shades of Sanctuary universe a read! You will not be disappointed!
abandoned-dnf
December 16, 2024DNF @ 4%, two incorrect "it's" in one footnote, life is too short to read books with poor copy editing.
November 15, 2024
5/5 ⭐ 1/5🌶️
Please note this is an ARC review as the novella was to kindly given to me by the author to read and review 🩷
As always Kass O'Shire kills me with how amazing the writing is. This short and sweet novella really embodies that fluffy lovey dovey holiday feeling. It's low spice, and full of sweetness. It is the perfect combination and I honestly found myself just dying for Asterion. He is sweet and thoughtful and literally just the biggest ball of fluffy cinnamon roll sweetness. He goes above and beyond and is able to break down Cora's defenses in the best ways. Also as someone who can have weird hyper fixations, I related to Cora quite a bit. I really enjoyed her character alot.
Can I also say I always appreciate seeing characters from the other books pop up? I get so excited. I finally got to go back and read the first book (I know I know.... slacker) and now whenever I see ANYONE even mentioned I just scream. It's always such a nice touch and I love it. Would absolutely 1000000% recommend this book to anyone already familiar with her books (It can be read as a stand alone but it's way better if you've read the other ones). It absolutely gives the vibes of wanting to cuddle up with a cup of hot cocoa in front of a fireplace with snow falling outside your window. I'm not typically someone who reads depending on seasons or holidays but MAN this was perfection.
Please note this is an ARC review as the novella was to kindly given to me by the author to read and review 🩷
As always Kass O'Shire kills me with how amazing the writing is. This short and sweet novella really embodies that fluffy lovey dovey holiday feeling. It's low spice, and full of sweetness. It is the perfect combination and I honestly found myself just dying for Asterion. He is sweet and thoughtful and literally just the biggest ball of fluffy cinnamon roll sweetness. He goes above and beyond and is able to break down Cora's defenses in the best ways. Also as someone who can have weird hyper fixations, I related to Cora quite a bit. I really enjoyed her character alot.
Can I also say I always appreciate seeing characters from the other books pop up? I get so excited. I finally got to go back and read the first book (I know I know.... slacker) and now whenever I see ANYONE even mentioned I just scream. It's always such a nice touch and I love it. Would absolutely 1000000% recommend this book to anyone already familiar with her books (It can be read as a stand alone but it's way better if you've read the other ones). It absolutely gives the vibes of wanting to cuddle up with a cup of hot cocoa in front of a fireplace with snow falling outside your window. I'm not typically someone who reads depending on seasons or holidays but MAN this was perfection.
November 22, 2024
A Minotaur Tale
ARC Review
Releases November 21
We jump right into the action of this Christmas Carol-esque courting tale without a lengthy exposition at the beginning. This tale takes place in the same world as the rest of Shades of the Sanctuary but in a city outside of the Sanctuary, so if you have read the other books you have a bit more context for the world (just do it, they are all fantastic!).
Cora is adorable 🥰 and Asterion is quite the delicious cinnamon roll, and we get to experience their charming Yuletide courtship! The story is short and sweet (novella) and perfect for a quick holiday read. I loved that we got to see some of our friends from the previous novels (and a little sneak at the next ones?!?!?)!
Notable Quote:
“Over the course of this eve, I will deliver to you three gifts, representing the past, the present, and the future I hope to share.”
Inspired by this quote, I brought the question to my husband, “If you were to gift me something representative of our past, what would it be?”. I was so delighted at the conversation that we proceeded to have, reminiscing about who we were to each other in the past and what we would choose to represent that. I think this is a fun thing to ponder with your loved one!
Overall, very cute 🥰 and left me wanting more!
Overall: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quantity of spice: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
No context highlights
🍪 Who knew Madeline cookies could be the sweetest gift?!
💜 Sugar Plum is the cutest nickname!
🏔️I learned about oreads! Super cool!
🎁 Who doesn’t love gifts?!
ARC Review
Releases November 21
We jump right into the action of this Christmas Carol-esque courting tale without a lengthy exposition at the beginning. This tale takes place in the same world as the rest of Shades of the Sanctuary but in a city outside of the Sanctuary, so if you have read the other books you have a bit more context for the world (just do it, they are all fantastic!).
Cora is adorable 🥰 and Asterion is quite the delicious cinnamon roll, and we get to experience their charming Yuletide courtship! The story is short and sweet (novella) and perfect for a quick holiday read. I loved that we got to see some of our friends from the previous novels (and a little sneak at the next ones?!?!?)!
Notable Quote:
“Over the course of this eve, I will deliver to you three gifts, representing the past, the present, and the future I hope to share.”
Inspired by this quote, I brought the question to my husband, “If you were to gift me something representative of our past, what would it be?”. I was so delighted at the conversation that we proceeded to have, reminiscing about who we were to each other in the past and what we would choose to represent that. I think this is a fun thing to ponder with your loved one!
Overall, very cute 🥰 and left me wanting more!
Overall: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quantity of spice: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
No context highlights
🍪 Who knew Madeline cookies could be the sweetest gift?!
💜 Sugar Plum is the cutest nickname!
🏔️I learned about oreads! Super cool!
🎁 Who doesn’t love gifts?!
November 21, 2024
Every story in the Shades of Sanctuary is amazing, but there was something particularly special about this holiday season novella. Cora reminds me so much of myself, and to read about her being so clearly seen by someone who wants desperately to love her brought me to tears. I love the way minotaurs are handled in this universe! It made the mythology-loving side of me squeal in delight. Asterion is such a sweet cinnamonroll! I adored these characters and I really, really hope we see them again in a future cameo.
November 17, 2024
I absolutely adored Asterion! He was so earnest and sweet, thoughtful and kind. His attentiveness to Cora’s needs was exactly what she needed to open her heart to him. Seeing Cora bloom under his care was beautiful. I have loved every single book this author has released, and I’ll continue to shout her praises to the rooftops.
November 22, 2024
PERFECTION
This was SO SO SO good!! The perfect start to the holiday season! This is a romance spin on the Christmas Carol and it’s so fun! Cora and Asterion are just lovely and Asterion does so much to prove himself a worthy mate. They have witty banter and excellent chemistry together!!!
This was SO SO SO good!! The perfect start to the holiday season! This is a romance spin on the Christmas Carol and it’s so fun! Cora and Asterion are just lovely and Asterion does so much to prove himself a worthy mate. They have witty banter and excellent chemistry together!!!
December 11, 2024
4.5 stars
Fun Yuletide novella set in Kass's world of creatures. This one is for you if you love:
*holiday novellas
*minotaurs x mountain nymphs
*neurodivergent representation
*differing cultures and how understanding and respecting other's cultures can bring unity
Fun Yuletide novella set in Kass's world of creatures. This one is for you if you love:
*holiday novellas
*minotaurs x mountain nymphs
*neurodivergent representation
*differing cultures and how understanding and respecting other's cultures can bring unity
December 15, 2024
Very cute and cozy. I love how this author makes each setting unique and magically distinct while also giving it a firm foothold in the overall world she's built. Asterion's ear flaps were too cute, and I liked Cora's connection to her mountain.
November 15, 2024
I absolutely love Cora story and the library romance. I need someone to romance me the Minotaur way 10 out of 10 would recommend.
December 30, 2024
I absolutely loved this. The characters were well-written, and they were soo cute together.
November 27, 2024
"I see even your horns are festive tonight," she teased.
If you want a short little novella that is the perfect balance between sweet & spicy, this is the one. I loved Cora - a neurodivergent librarian oread (mountain nymph) who is insecure and a little shy and needs someone to make her realise that she's and amazing person just the way she is. Asterion being a perfect big cinnamon roll of a minotaur is the perfect man for the job and seeing him trying to woo her with gifts and thoughtful gestures was so much fun. It's really a cozy, wintery read and they make an adorable couple.
❄️ Librarian nymph FMC
🎁 Himbo minotaur MMC
❄️ Spoiled with presents
🎁 (Spicy) bantr
I can wholeheartedly say that this was my favourite novella in this series so far. It was just so cute and wholesome & I want to spend more time with these two. 🥰
Thank you to the author Kass O’Shire for an early reading copy!
November 24, 2024
Darling
Darling, uber fast read. I inhaled it in one evening. I'm looking forward to checking out other books by this author.
Darling, uber fast read. I inhaled it in one evening. I'm looking forward to checking out other books by this author.
December 6, 2024
Cozy christmas novella featuring a minotaur and a nymph.
Cora's the head librarian and a bit of a loner. However, Asterion, the minotaur, sees her for who she really is and willingly pursued her through the mix of their culture traditions.
I forgot the author's writing style in this world so it took me a while to get used to but once I did, I flew through this book.
It was so sweet to read, especially with how they both navigated their new relationship. It was slow, tentative and so endearing.
It was so nice to see the charactes from the series, as well.
Cora's the head librarian and a bit of a loner. However, Asterion, the minotaur, sees her for who she really is and willingly pursued her through the mix of their culture traditions.
I forgot the author's writing style in this world so it took me a while to get used to but once I did, I flew through this book.
It was so sweet to read, especially with how they both navigated their new relationship. It was slow, tentative and so endearing.
It was so nice to see the charactes from the series, as well.
Read
December 22, 2024This was so cute what the hecc
November 19, 2024
the prose writing style misses the mark. there are long words meant to extrapolate, but it’s not always clear who is talking, what the surroundings are, or what is happening. and frequently a sentiment is restated with a second sentence, when I think the story is progressing. but I still did not know what the characters felt or what was happening.
it’s a minotaur and nymph spicy holiday novella. the pace is slow to realize they have the same long-term bonding intentions, then fast to spice.
our minotaur started out as clumsy, but that went away after spending weeks of minimum contact with our nymph? our nymph started out anxious, but ended up just placating this different species?
a single, outstanding spice scene though! hoo-wee!
I received an advance reader copy for my honest review.
it’s a minotaur and nymph spicy holiday novella. the pace is slow to realize they have the same long-term bonding intentions, then fast to spice.
our minotaur started out as clumsy, but that went away after spending weeks of minimum contact with our nymph? our nymph started out anxious, but ended up just placating this different species?
a single, outstanding spice scene though! hoo-wee!
I received an advance reader copy for my honest review.
December 24, 2024
Gleeful Goblin Review: The setup between these two is so darling. We get to see first how Cora feels about Asterion and how he really gets under her very buttoned up exterior: "Cora had disliked Asterion from the start. He was loud and messy, had seemingly no idea how to compose himself in a library, and had a smile that somehow melted her indignation if she didn’t nurture it closely. He'd bow his head and blush, rub his hocked hoof over the floor in chagrin and all of her righteous fervor would drain. One minute she'd be waggling her finger, whisper-admonishing him, and the next she'd be calmly explaining the rules and trying not to giggle at his self-effacing jokes. In short, he was the perfect kind of torture. Someone she should easily detest, yet she could never quite muster the ability. His consistent offers to help around the library, his smiles and blushes when he’d broken a rule, interfered with her ability to feel as she ought, no matter how she tried." I found Cora tremendously interesting because she's not putting Asterion off because she truly doesn't like him romantically, but because she doesn't trust anyone to like her for who she is. There are expectations about nymphs being poly, plus free and easy with their affection, so not worth committing to in terms of a relationship. Because of this, Cora pushes Asterion away and assumes he'll be just like everyone else in that she can info dump about her interests and he zones out. But our cinnamon roll minotaur is made of stronger and way cuter stuff than most! Asterion proceeds to woo Cora in the most adorable way possible, complete with a scene basically out of Love Actually with carolers and notes except entirely wholesome in this case instead of creepy cheating feels like the movie. I'm not a huge holiday romance fan typically but this book has joined my Comfort Reads list to be enjoyed over and over. 5/5 Stars
November 22, 2024
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews: “A Minotaur Tale” by Kass O' Shire
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
It’s Yule season, and everyone is excited to attend the Yuletide Ball! Uncomfortable with socializing and preferring to get cozy with a good book, Cora, the town librarian, is doing all she can to avoid the upcoming festivities. Just when Cora thinks she’ll be spending the holidays alone, she gets the surprise of her life: Asterion, her Minotaur crush, visits with the intention of proving his love for her by gifting her three heartfelt presents. Will these gifts lift Cora’s spirits, or will it be Asterion who makes her heart beat faster?
From the author that brought you the “Shades of Sanctuary” series, Kass O’Shire delivers a wholesome, fantasy holiday romance that acts as a loose adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol! The world-building, while confined to a single location for most of the narrative, is still engaging to follow as O’Shire incorporates her signature Gaslamp/Historical Fantasy blend while also showcasing her ethnographic research through detailed descriptions of certain holiday traditions and meals. Cora is a relatable character on her journey to explore her comfort levels with romantic courting, and the representation of her autism/neurodiversity is treated with so much respect, allowing her identity and needs to simply exist and be appreciated in the context of the narrative, rather than reduced to degrading Hollywood stereotypes. Asterion is also perfect as Cora’s love interest, taking the time throughout the story to connect with her and understand her interests rather than othering or disregarding her. Want a read that delivers magical, Dickensian, Yuletide vibes? Then don’t miss out on this book when it hits online shelves on November 21, 2024!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes to Expect: Holiday Romance, Gaslamp Fantasy Romance, Greek Mythological Beings, Minotaur x Nymph, Holiday Traditions, Librarian Romance, Pining, Yule Ball, Neurodiverse Representation, and Plus Size Representation.
Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Social Anxiety and Relationship Anxiety.
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
It’s Yule season, and everyone is excited to attend the Yuletide Ball! Uncomfortable with socializing and preferring to get cozy with a good book, Cora, the town librarian, is doing all she can to avoid the upcoming festivities. Just when Cora thinks she’ll be spending the holidays alone, she gets the surprise of her life: Asterion, her Minotaur crush, visits with the intention of proving his love for her by gifting her three heartfelt presents. Will these gifts lift Cora’s spirits, or will it be Asterion who makes her heart beat faster?
From the author that brought you the “Shades of Sanctuary” series, Kass O’Shire delivers a wholesome, fantasy holiday romance that acts as a loose adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol! The world-building, while confined to a single location for most of the narrative, is still engaging to follow as O’Shire incorporates her signature Gaslamp/Historical Fantasy blend while also showcasing her ethnographic research through detailed descriptions of certain holiday traditions and meals. Cora is a relatable character on her journey to explore her comfort levels with romantic courting, and the representation of her autism/neurodiversity is treated with so much respect, allowing her identity and needs to simply exist and be appreciated in the context of the narrative, rather than reduced to degrading Hollywood stereotypes. Asterion is also perfect as Cora’s love interest, taking the time throughout the story to connect with her and understand her interests rather than othering or disregarding her. Want a read that delivers magical, Dickensian, Yuletide vibes? Then don’t miss out on this book when it hits online shelves on November 21, 2024!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes to Expect: Holiday Romance, Gaslamp Fantasy Romance, Greek Mythological Beings, Minotaur x Nymph, Holiday Traditions, Librarian Romance, Pining, Yule Ball, Neurodiverse Representation, and Plus Size Representation.
Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Social Anxiety and Relationship Anxiety.
October 18, 2025
I wanted to pick this up as the heroine is on the autism spectrum. Cora is a mountain nymph and the guardian of her library in the city situated in a mountain. She is annoyed with newly arrived diplomat Asterion, a Minotaur as he sees interested in her and she is reluctant to let him in because of past rejection.
This had some Christmas Carol eater eggs as he tries to court her by giving her three gifts and surprises. She does not like to be in crowded spaces and is shy but decides to take a chance to attend a ball with him.
I liked that he was not the typical macho hero but more of a scholar, interested to read and learn about cultures as well as how to make things better. He was sweet and goofy but determined to win her over. The minotaur mating rituals were hot and there are definitely very steamy scenes.
Cora shares about her relationship with her parents and it wasn't the typical mother got pregnant, the way the author weaves the lore on nymphs, their powers and how they are born was fascinating. Cora cannot leave her mountain and the way Asterion learns about it and takes that into consideration in his courting was beyond sweet. I liked how he asked whether she wanted to leave the ball knowing big event are tough for her.
The genre was hard to pin down, fantasy? paranormal? it is not a modern day setting. The story has a whimsical feel with foot notes.
Tropes: Cinammon roll hero, size difference (Bigger and taller hero, smaller heroine)
Representation:
- Heroine is on the autism spectrum
- Heroine is plus sized
This had some Christmas Carol eater eggs as he tries to court her by giving her three gifts and surprises. She does not like to be in crowded spaces and is shy but decides to take a chance to attend a ball with him.
I liked that he was not the typical macho hero but more of a scholar, interested to read and learn about cultures as well as how to make things better. He was sweet and goofy but determined to win her over. The minotaur mating rituals were hot and there are definitely very steamy scenes.
Cora shares about her relationship with her parents and it wasn't the typical mother got pregnant, the way the author weaves the lore on nymphs, their powers and how they are born was fascinating. Cora cannot leave her mountain and the way Asterion learns about it and takes that into consideration in his courting was beyond sweet. I liked how he asked whether she wanted to leave the ball knowing big event are tough for her.
The genre was hard to pin down, fantasy? paranormal? it is not a modern day setting. The story has a whimsical feel with foot notes.
Tropes: Cinammon roll hero, size difference (Bigger and taller hero, smaller heroine)
Representation:
- Heroine is on the autism spectrum
- Heroine is plus sized
December 28, 2024
🇫🇷French & English reviews🇬🇧
Genre & Tropes : Christmas romance x Fantasy x Mythology elements x Monster romance x Novella
Une petite romance de Noel adorable
Je ne sais plus exactement comment j'ai découvert ce livre (je crois qu'il était mentionné dans la newsletter de Smart Bitches, Trashy Books !) mais ça a été une très agréable surprise !
Outre les notes de bas de pages que j'adore, j'ai adoré l'univers avec toutes les différentes créatures (mention spéciale pour Cora et toutes ses spécificités !) et la romance hyper mignonne et romantique (et aussi hyper sexy !)
Ça me rend curieuse pour les autres livres dans l'univers !
Bref, une petite nouvelle de Noël adorable et sexy que j'ai lu avec plaisir !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A cute little Christmas romance
I don't remember exactly how I discovered this book (I think it was mentioned in the Smart Bitches, Trashy Books newsletter !) but it was a very pleasant surprise !
Besides the footnotes that I love, I loved the universe with all the different creatures (special mention for Cora and all her specificities !) and the super cute and romantic romance (and also super sexy !)
It makes me curious about the other books in the universe !
In short, a cute and sexy little Christmas novella that I read with pleasure !
Genre & Tropes : Christmas romance x Fantasy x Mythology elements x Monster romance x Novella
Une petite romance de Noel adorable
Je ne sais plus exactement comment j'ai découvert ce livre (je crois qu'il était mentionné dans la newsletter de Smart Bitches, Trashy Books !) mais ça a été une très agréable surprise !
Outre les notes de bas de pages que j'adore, j'ai adoré l'univers avec toutes les différentes créatures (mention spéciale pour Cora et toutes ses spécificités !) et la romance hyper mignonne et romantique (et aussi hyper sexy !)
Ça me rend curieuse pour les autres livres dans l'univers !
Bref, une petite nouvelle de Noël adorable et sexy que j'ai lu avec plaisir !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A cute little Christmas romance
I don't remember exactly how I discovered this book (I think it was mentioned in the Smart Bitches, Trashy Books newsletter !) but it was a very pleasant surprise !
Besides the footnotes that I love, I loved the universe with all the different creatures (special mention for Cora and all her specificities !) and the super cute and romantic romance (and also super sexy !)
It makes me curious about the other books in the universe !
In short, a cute and sexy little Christmas novella that I read with pleasure !
November 17, 2024
📚 ARC Review 📚
Does anyone else tear up when they get selected for an ARC? I usually do, and I definitely did when I saw my application for this ARC accepted.
A Minotaur Tale: in Prose, Being a Monster Romance for Yuletide by Kass O’Shire is a cozy, sweet holiday monster romance novella.
Asterion is an adorable, cinnamon roll of a Minotaur that’s a new diplomat to the dwarven city of Berggeheimnis. And he’s got a massive crush on Cora.
Cora’s a oread, a mountain nymph, that gets grumpy when overstimulated. Which, same. She’s the head librarian of Berggeheimnis’ library, appreciates rules and routines, and dislikes crowds.
I appreciated Cora’s hyperfocus on the things she liked. As a mountain nymph, she can’t leave her mountain. She reads and dreams of places she can never travel to. And she loves fossils!
There’s even a sweet recreation of that scene from Love Actually with the cards. But actually from two people that are attracted to each other and not one guy macking on the woman that’s married to his best friend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Minotaur Tale is a quick, sweet read for the holiday season. Like a cup of hot cocoa while snuggled up on the couch. A Christmas Carol where the ghosts are gifts instead? Sign me up.
Does anyone else tear up when they get selected for an ARC? I usually do, and I definitely did when I saw my application for this ARC accepted.
A Minotaur Tale: in Prose, Being a Monster Romance for Yuletide by Kass O’Shire is a cozy, sweet holiday monster romance novella.
Asterion is an adorable, cinnamon roll of a Minotaur that’s a new diplomat to the dwarven city of Berggeheimnis. And he’s got a massive crush on Cora.
Cora’s a oread, a mountain nymph, that gets grumpy when overstimulated. Which, same. She’s the head librarian of Berggeheimnis’ library, appreciates rules and routines, and dislikes crowds.
I appreciated Cora’s hyperfocus on the things she liked. As a mountain nymph, she can’t leave her mountain. She reads and dreams of places she can never travel to. And she loves fossils!
There’s even a sweet recreation of that scene from Love Actually with the cards. But actually from two people that are attracted to each other and not one guy macking on the woman that’s married to his best friend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Minotaur Tale is a quick, sweet read for the holiday season. Like a cup of hot cocoa while snuggled up on the couch. A Christmas Carol where the ghosts are gifts instead? Sign me up.
November 22, 2024
"You never need to beg me for anything, but...you do look pretty doing it."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
What you'll find in this book:
- Himbo Minotaur
- Inappropriate Use of a Body Chain
- Librarian Gets *Loud*
- Teasing with Mistletoe
- Stocking Worship
- Spoiling!!
Kass has the most gorgeous writing style that she showcases within this series. The scientific style of each book with the foot notes never ceases to bring a smile to my face. Reading these books as if written by Sirin, who we meet in book one with her learnings to create a book retelling the stories of those she meets, is such a fabulous concept.
Cora and Asterion are both the absolute cutest. With their own quirks, strengths, and insecurities, it is such a joy to get to know them through the pages. At the beginning of the story, Cora is so closed off as she feels that being a Nymph, no one wants her for the long term, and because of this, she finds solace by herself. It is lovely to watch Asterion draw her out of her shell with his sweet as hell intentions and the way he learns about her and her kind. Their story is just so damn sweet with a kick of spiciness that I never wanted it to end.
Oh, and how could I forget this book is set at Christmas time, which only adds to the magic and story. I loved how Kass has incorporated the concept of the ghosts of past, present, and future from the traditional tale as part of Asterions' show of intent to mate with Cora. It brought all those gorgeous cosy vibes while being so sweet and fitting the story and characters perfectly.
Author: Kass O'Shire
Series: Shades of Sanctuary
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: 21st November 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
What you'll find in this book:
- Himbo Minotaur
- Inappropriate Use of a Body Chain
- Librarian Gets *Loud*
- Teasing with Mistletoe
- Stocking Worship
- Spoiling!!
Kass has the most gorgeous writing style that she showcases within this series. The scientific style of each book with the foot notes never ceases to bring a smile to my face. Reading these books as if written by Sirin, who we meet in book one with her learnings to create a book retelling the stories of those she meets, is such a fabulous concept.
Cora and Asterion are both the absolute cutest. With their own quirks, strengths, and insecurities, it is such a joy to get to know them through the pages. At the beginning of the story, Cora is so closed off as she feels that being a Nymph, no one wants her for the long term, and because of this, she finds solace by herself. It is lovely to watch Asterion draw her out of her shell with his sweet as hell intentions and the way he learns about her and her kind. Their story is just so damn sweet with a kick of spiciness that I never wanted it to end.
Oh, and how could I forget this book is set at Christmas time, which only adds to the magic and story. I loved how Kass has incorporated the concept of the ghosts of past, present, and future from the traditional tale as part of Asterions' show of intent to mate with Cora. It brought all those gorgeous cosy vibes while being so sweet and fitting the story and characters perfectly.
Author: Kass O'Shire
Series: Shades of Sanctuary
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: 21st November 2024
November 19, 2024
A Minotaur Tale is a cute christmas novella with an intriguing world and folklore. It is one of the recent novellas set in the Shades of Sanctuary world.
The romance of the story is quite straightforward between the two main characters, a mountain nymph librarian Cora and a Minotaur diplomat Asterion. No drama included, just warm and cozy vibes with some spice, and there is nothing wrong with that! I would have welcomed a bit of tension and/or more chemistry between the main characters, but in a story this short it really isn’t obligatory. I still love the footnotes, although I miss the more musty and academic style from the first book.
I would have loved to read more about the fascinating city, nymphs, and minotaurs. All seemed to have such interesting habits and history. This could have even been a longer novel, this bite size sweetness just woke up my appetite for more Kass O’Shire stories. Can’t wait for the Rake!
GENRE: Fantasy romance
TROPE(S): cinnamon roll guy,
POV: dual
THEMES: Christmas presents, nymph, minotaur
ATMOSPHERE: Yuletide, library, rocks
SPICE: 3 / 5🌶️
STARS: 4 / 5⭐️
The romance of the story is quite straightforward between the two main characters, a mountain nymph librarian Cora and a Minotaur diplomat Asterion. No drama included, just warm and cozy vibes with some spice, and there is nothing wrong with that! I would have welcomed a bit of tension and/or more chemistry between the main characters, but in a story this short it really isn’t obligatory. I still love the footnotes, although I miss the more musty and academic style from the first book.
I would have loved to read more about the fascinating city, nymphs, and minotaurs. All seemed to have such interesting habits and history. This could have even been a longer novel, this bite size sweetness just woke up my appetite for more Kass O’Shire stories. Can’t wait for the Rake!
GENRE: Fantasy romance
TROPE(S): cinnamon roll guy,
POV: dual
THEMES: Christmas presents, nymph, minotaur
ATMOSPHERE: Yuletide, library, rocks
SPICE: 3 / 5🌶️
STARS: 4 / 5⭐️
November 19, 2024
‘Tis the season to have a himbo flirt via gift giving and acts of kindness 😆🥰
Kass O’Shire was a happy discovery when I first started her Shades of Sanctuary series. This holiday novella was the perfect addition, and I was thrilled to be accepted into the ARC team for it!
I ADORED Asterion and Cora’s story: how he did everything he could to learn about her customs and teach her his, how she enthusiastically talked about her interests (even if it was to try to deter him…girl thank goodness that didn’t work 😆), and the entire gesture inspired by A Christmas Carol!
Honestly, I saw a bit of myself in Cora, not quite being enough or being too much for the wrong people, and her realizing that the right person will not only love her for her, but will match the energy!
Yall, this novella comes out on November 21, and it’s the perfect quick and cozy holiday romance for the season 🎄😄
#bookreview #ARCReview #spicyromance #gaslampromance #monsterromance #cozyromance
#shadesofsanctuary #holidayromance #arcreader
Kass O’Shire was a happy discovery when I first started her Shades of Sanctuary series. This holiday novella was the perfect addition, and I was thrilled to be accepted into the ARC team for it!
I ADORED Asterion and Cora’s story: how he did everything he could to learn about her customs and teach her his, how she enthusiastically talked about her interests (even if it was to try to deter him…girl thank goodness that didn’t work 😆), and the entire gesture inspired by A Christmas Carol!
Honestly, I saw a bit of myself in Cora, not quite being enough or being too much for the wrong people, and her realizing that the right person will not only love her for her, but will match the energy!
Yall, this novella comes out on November 21, and it’s the perfect quick and cozy holiday romance for the season 🎄😄
#bookreview #ARCReview #spicyromance #gaslampromance #monsterromance #cozyromance
#shadesofsanctuary #holidayromance #arcreader
November 28, 2024
Cora works at the library where a very handsome Minotaur named Asterion comes often to read and also talks to her. When she realizes he may be flirting with her and basically asks her out, she tries to shut it down after having bad experiences in the past with relationships and has a hard time with trust.
She thinks she’s stopped his advances, and even though she feels lonely, she tells herself it’s for the best.
Until he comes knocking on her door one evening with gifts and a new method of attempting to court her.
This was such an adorable read. The writing is beautiful and exquisite and, for whatever reason, the writing made me think of winter 😂 it was very poetic and whimsical. Like snowflakes.
The romance is adorable and gets steamy by the end, but I loved the buildup of the romantic relationship. Although this is a shorter book and a quick read, you’re not left feeling like something is missing. It has enough written that you feel connected to the characters and just love the romance.
This is truly an adorable romantic monster romance that I think all should read.
Thank you to the author for the gifted e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
She thinks she’s stopped his advances, and even though she feels lonely, she tells herself it’s for the best.
Until he comes knocking on her door one evening with gifts and a new method of attempting to court her.
This was such an adorable read. The writing is beautiful and exquisite and, for whatever reason, the writing made me think of winter 😂 it was very poetic and whimsical. Like snowflakes.
The romance is adorable and gets steamy by the end, but I loved the buildup of the romantic relationship. Although this is a shorter book and a quick read, you’re not left feeling like something is missing. It has enough written that you feel connected to the characters and just love the romance.
This is truly an adorable romantic monster romance that I think all should read.
Thank you to the author for the gifted e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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