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No Such Thing As Monsters
Rosie has spent her lifetime not believing in monsters. She’s a scientist by nature—open-minded, but a cynic at heart, with a ledger of things to prove to everyone who doubts her. She’s not above a bit of dubious fun, though, especially if Devon, her best friend and life-long love, asks.
When a night at the circus ends in the fortune-teller’s tent, Rosie guzzles a potion named Familiar to prove a point—and everything she thought she knew of the natural world starts unravelling. Beginning with Raum La Roux. Large, cantankerous, intimidating—and, according to him, bound to her until Rosie chooses someone for him to kill.
Suddenly, monsters don’t seem so far-fetched.
Set against a vintage 1920s backdrop of gritty realism and eerie enchantment, No Such Thing As Monsters is a psychological fantasy about power, consent, and the monsters we make of each other.
When a night at the circus ends in the fortune-teller’s tent, Rosie guzzles a potion named Familiar to prove a point—and everything she thought she knew of the natural world starts unravelling. Beginning with Raum La Roux. Large, cantankerous, intimidating—and, according to him, bound to her until Rosie chooses someone for him to kill.
Suddenly, monsters don’t seem so far-fetched.
Set against a vintage 1920s backdrop of gritty realism and eerie enchantment, No Such Thing As Monsters is a psychological fantasy about power, consent, and the monsters we make of each other.
380 pages, Unknown Binding
Published March 10, 2026
About the author
Kaitlin Corvus
13 books23 followersKaitlin Corvus is from Ontario, Canada. The north holds the best part of her. She writes about nobodies, monsters, and gutter glitter, loves the stars, the deep dark sea, and a good horror mystery.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 13, 2026
ARC REVIEW
AMAZING! This 1920s set book got its hooks in me and won't let go. Let's dish about these characters, most of whom are majorly unlikable. Peter, oh boy, love sick doesn't even begin to cover his hot mess. Devon, is he the real deal or just a master manipulator? Raum, now his darkness is like my favorite guilty pleasure - I just can't get enough. Rosie is a standout character that I'm actually really into. This book is ridiculously captivating. It's dark, but not so dark that it doesn't have a little bit of light to balance it out. I'm super excited for the next book.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
AMAZING! This 1920s set book got its hooks in me and won't let go. Let's dish about these characters, most of whom are majorly unlikable. Peter, oh boy, love sick doesn't even begin to cover his hot mess. Devon, is he the real deal or just a master manipulator? Raum, now his darkness is like my favorite guilty pleasure - I just can't get enough. Rosie is a standout character that I'm actually really into. This book is ridiculously captivating. It's dark, but not so dark that it doesn't have a little bit of light to balance it out. I'm super excited for the next book.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
March 16, 2026
When I started reading, I honestly didn’t expect much, but I’m so glad I had the chance to read something different! I’m giving this a solid 4.5⭐️! It only lost half a star because even though the book is short, so much was happening that I could barely keep up with all the twists. There are also quite a few unanswered questions left - I can't list them here because of spoilers... 😅 But then again, maybe the author intentionally left room for us to guess and speculate 🙃.
I was absolutely captivated by the 1920s Great Gatsby atmosphere mixed with dark, monstrous motifs! The relationship dynamics between the main characters, the era's issues, and the exclusion of women from the education system - these themes were handled perfectly and stirred up so many emotions!
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a book with a unique “spice” or those wanting to escape cliché romance and regular fantasy books. A fantastic read!
I was absolutely captivated by the 1920s Great Gatsby atmosphere mixed with dark, monstrous motifs! The relationship dynamics between the main characters, the era's issues, and the exclusion of women from the education system - these themes were handled perfectly and stirred up so many emotions!
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a book with a unique “spice” or those wanting to escape cliché romance and regular fantasy books. A fantastic read!
December 2, 2025
I now truly understand what a book hangover means. This story pulled me in to glitzy socialite parties veneered over seedy, drunken nightlife, and bound me (iykyk) with the promise of something even more sinister. Corvus's exceptional prose is the feast I hunger for, and she combines feminism and violence in a way that's irresistible. My mind keeps playing over certain scenes (anything with Raum, really), and when I'm finally able to catch my breath, I find myself taking a deeper introspection on the movement within this story: the evolution among characters and how certain themes present, roll out, and tie up in the end. I want to turn around and read it again.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
KAITLIN CORVUS, I DEMAND AT LEAST THREE HUNDRED MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES!...Pretty please 😘
Big, huge thank you to Kaitlin, Victory Editing & NetGalley for this ARC, it is very much appreciated.
*I highly recommend listening to Jazz music while reading this absolute delight. It sets the vibe perfectly*
My pin curls are holding on for dear life and I'm losing sequins left and right. What a ride that was!
When Rosie the sceptic is reluctantly dragged to have her fortune told, she rebels by downing a random "potion" with no regard for it's ingredients or the consequences of her actions. She would soon come to both regret and revere that decision, as it brought her sarcasm, sass and shadows in the form of Raum La Roux.
Turns out, it's not easy trying to get the person you love to realise you see them as more than a friend when a huge, tattooed demon keeps appearing to kiss you at inopportune times.
This gorgeous read transports you right into the 1920s with stolen kisses, silky speakeasies and star-studded glamour around every corner. I can't wait to read more books in what is clearly going to be my new favourite series.
I can't even talk about the ending, I'm afraid. Can't talk at all, actually, as my jaw is currently on the floor.
Big, huge thank you to Kaitlin, Victory Editing & NetGalley for this ARC, it is very much appreciated.
*I highly recommend listening to Jazz music while reading this absolute delight. It sets the vibe perfectly*
My pin curls are holding on for dear life and I'm losing sequins left and right. What a ride that was!
When Rosie the sceptic is reluctantly dragged to have her fortune told, she rebels by downing a random "potion" with no regard for it's ingredients or the consequences of her actions. She would soon come to both regret and revere that decision, as it brought her sarcasm, sass and shadows in the form of Raum La Roux.
Turns out, it's not easy trying to get the person you love to realise you see them as more than a friend when a huge, tattooed demon keeps appearing to kiss you at inopportune times.
This gorgeous read transports you right into the 1920s with stolen kisses, silky speakeasies and star-studded glamour around every corner. I can't wait to read more books in what is clearly going to be my new favourite series.
I can't even talk about the ending, I'm afraid. Can't talk at all, actually, as my jaw is currently on the floor.
March 5, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.75/5 stars)
A gritty, atmospheric 1920s fantasy that feels like Peaky Blinders mixed with a dark Grimm fairy tale. I loved the "Snake-Oil" premise: Rosie is a cynical scientist who tries to debunk a magical tonic, only to end up bound to Raum, a terrifyingly grumpy monster-for-hire.
The Good: The dark, complex dynamic between Rosie’s logic and Raum’s chaos is the highlight. The "vintage grit" world-building is top-tier.
The Not-So-Good: The middle drags a bit with the Rosie/Devon/Peter drama, and Rosie’s skepticism felt a little repetitive once the magic became undeniable.
Final Verdict: A strong 3.75 for fans of historical fantasy who want their magic dangerous and their "monster companions" truly monstrous.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.75/5 stars)
A gritty, atmospheric 1920s fantasy that feels like Peaky Blinders mixed with a dark Grimm fairy tale. I loved the "Snake-Oil" premise: Rosie is a cynical scientist who tries to debunk a magical tonic, only to end up bound to Raum, a terrifyingly grumpy monster-for-hire.
The Good: The dark, complex dynamic between Rosie’s logic and Raum’s chaos is the highlight. The "vintage grit" world-building is top-tier.
The Not-So-Good: The middle drags a bit with the Rosie/Devon/Peter drama, and Rosie’s skepticism felt a little repetitive once the magic became undeniable.
Final Verdict: A strong 3.75 for fans of historical fantasy who want their magic dangerous and their "monster companions" truly monstrous.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Shadow Spark Publishing and Kaitlin Corvus for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
No Such Thing As Monsters is set in the 1920's era, the era I should have been born in. We have 3 MC's: Rosalie, Devon and Peter, who are involved in a love triangle. This is book #1 in the Snake-Oik series. This is a story that will stay with y'all long after y'all have finished it. In my opinion this is going to be one of the best series I'm going to read. I can't hardly wait to see where Ms. Kaitlin is going to take us next. Ms. Kaitlin, please make this series more than 4 books, I just can't get enough of it and I don't want it to end.
I truly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book.
No Such Thing As Monsters is set in the 1920's era, the era I should have been born in. We have 3 MC's: Rosalie, Devon and Peter, who are involved in a love triangle. This is book #1 in the Snake-Oik series. This is a story that will stay with y'all long after y'all have finished it. In my opinion this is going to be one of the best series I'm going to read. I can't hardly wait to see where Ms. Kaitlin is going to take us next. Ms. Kaitlin, please make this series more than 4 books, I just can't get enough of it and I don't want it to end.
I truly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book.
April 8, 2026
This is the first book I have read by this author, and it feels like stepping into something you know you shouldn’t touch… and then not being able to pull your hand back once you do. No Such Thing As Monsters by Kaitlin Corvus has this eerie, creeping energy that builds slowly but never really loosens its grip. It’s not loud horror; it’s the kind that sits just under your skin and makes everything feel slightly off, even in the calm moments.
Rosie is such a fascinating character to follow because she starts out so firmly grounded in logic. She’s a scientist, someone who needs things to make sense, and you can feel how much she relies on that structure. But the more the story unfolds, the more that foundation starts to crack, and watching that shift happen is where a lot of the tension lives. It’s not just that strange things are happening around her… it’s that she can’t explain them, and that loss of certainty hits harder than anything else.
Then there’s Raum… and honestly, he brings this heavy, almost suffocating presence into the story. He’s not just intimidating. He feels inevitable. Every scene he’s in carries this underlying tension, like something is always one step away from going too far. There’s a constant question of control when it comes to him; who has it, who’s losing it, and what it even means in the first place. His connection to Rosie isn’t comforting or easy. It’s sharp, uneasy, and layered with this sense that nothing about it is entirely safe.
The dynamic between Rosie and Devon adds another layer that I wasn’t expecting. There’s history there, something softer but also complicated, and it contrasts in a really interesting way with everything happening around them. It makes the emotional side of the story feel more grounded, even while everything else is unraveling.
The atmosphere is where this book really sinks in, though. The 1920s setting isn’t just aesthetic. It’s woven into everything. The speakeasies, the circus, the late-night energy… it all feels a little glamorous on the surface, but underneath that is something much darker. There’s this constant sense that you’re standing in a place where things look normal, but they absolutely aren’t. That contrast adds so much to the unease.
What really stood out to me is how much this story leans into themes of power and control without ever feeling heavy-handed about it. It’s in the way characters interact, the way choices are taken or forced, the way Rosie is constantly trying to hold onto her agency while everything around her is trying to strip it away. There’s a psychological edge to it that keeps you thinking even when nothing outwardly intense is happening.
The pacing works in favor of that slow, creeping tension. It takes its time letting things unravel, which makes the moments where everything does shift hit that much harder. It’s not about constant action; it’s about the buildup, the unease, and that lingering feeling that something isn’t right.
Overall, this sits in that darker, more psychological fantasy space where the lines between reality and something else start to blur in ways that feel deeply uncomfortable, in a good way. The characters are layered, the atmosphere is thick with tension, and the emotional undercurrent keeps everything feeling grounded even as it gets more unsettling.
If you’re into darker fantasy with a psychological edge, complicated dynamics, and an atmosphere that feels just a little too close for comfort, this is definitely one to pick up.
As always be mindful of any trigger warnings, what I like you may not.
Happy Reading! ✨📚
Rosie is such a fascinating character to follow because she starts out so firmly grounded in logic. She’s a scientist, someone who needs things to make sense, and you can feel how much she relies on that structure. But the more the story unfolds, the more that foundation starts to crack, and watching that shift happen is where a lot of the tension lives. It’s not just that strange things are happening around her… it’s that she can’t explain them, and that loss of certainty hits harder than anything else.
Then there’s Raum… and honestly, he brings this heavy, almost suffocating presence into the story. He’s not just intimidating. He feels inevitable. Every scene he’s in carries this underlying tension, like something is always one step away from going too far. There’s a constant question of control when it comes to him; who has it, who’s losing it, and what it even means in the first place. His connection to Rosie isn’t comforting or easy. It’s sharp, uneasy, and layered with this sense that nothing about it is entirely safe.
The dynamic between Rosie and Devon adds another layer that I wasn’t expecting. There’s history there, something softer but also complicated, and it contrasts in a really interesting way with everything happening around them. It makes the emotional side of the story feel more grounded, even while everything else is unraveling.
The atmosphere is where this book really sinks in, though. The 1920s setting isn’t just aesthetic. It’s woven into everything. The speakeasies, the circus, the late-night energy… it all feels a little glamorous on the surface, but underneath that is something much darker. There’s this constant sense that you’re standing in a place where things look normal, but they absolutely aren’t. That contrast adds so much to the unease.
What really stood out to me is how much this story leans into themes of power and control without ever feeling heavy-handed about it. It’s in the way characters interact, the way choices are taken or forced, the way Rosie is constantly trying to hold onto her agency while everything around her is trying to strip it away. There’s a psychological edge to it that keeps you thinking even when nothing outwardly intense is happening.
The pacing works in favor of that slow, creeping tension. It takes its time letting things unravel, which makes the moments where everything does shift hit that much harder. It’s not about constant action; it’s about the buildup, the unease, and that lingering feeling that something isn’t right.
Overall, this sits in that darker, more psychological fantasy space where the lines between reality and something else start to blur in ways that feel deeply uncomfortable, in a good way. The characters are layered, the atmosphere is thick with tension, and the emotional undercurrent keeps everything feeling grounded even as it gets more unsettling.
If you’re into darker fantasy with a psychological edge, complicated dynamics, and an atmosphere that feels just a little too close for comfort, this is definitely one to pick up.
As always be mindful of any trigger warnings, what I like you may not.
Happy Reading! ✨📚
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this novel!
I think this one probably just wasn't for me. I was really drawn to the summary—1920s? Magic? A woman of science faced with the supernatural? It had all the ingredients of something I'd love, but the execution wasn't quite there for me. My favorite part was the relationship between Rosie and Mildred. It was refreshing how they weren't pitted against each other like one might expect.
I thought the setting and the premise showed promise, but oddly enough I found it was the writing that kept pulling me out of it? The prose was almost overwrought with a sort of melodrama that was oddly out of place, to me, and I felt kept me at a distance from the story and characters.
For example:
- "His smile slowed down the lash of his words, so when they struck, it was broadside and didn't leave a mark."
I feel just "His smile slowed down the lash of his words" would have sufficed.
- "His fingers, inked and sure, tangled in her curls and pulled her head back, neck bared."
Would it not be "baring her neck"? Otherwise it reads as if he's baring his own neck to her.
- "'I thought girls like you learned to say please and thank you?' he said, amused, like he was talking to a stray that had learned to growl."
It's just a little "off" to me... the first thing I'd expect a stray to do is growl at me, LOL.
That, and there were some instances of phrases and whatnot that felt a bit anachronistic to me, such as a character saying "We're two consenting adults." I'm not so certain someone would have said something like that in the 1920s. But I could see the author's efforts in the conveying the setting, even if I myself didn't feel immersed in it. There's plenty of description of the attire, interiors, etc. Still, something was just missing for me and I wasn't quite "convinced" of the setting.
I like reading about terrible rich people, but I didn't find much to bite into in regards to these characters. That being SAID, someone who just wants to read a steamy little romance with some magic in a fun time period might have plenty of fun with this. Perhaps it's just the tropes and dynamics I don't care for that much! It's just not something I personally read and I can admit that.
I think this one probably just wasn't for me. I was really drawn to the summary—1920s? Magic? A woman of science faced with the supernatural? It had all the ingredients of something I'd love, but the execution wasn't quite there for me. My favorite part was the relationship between Rosie and Mildred. It was refreshing how they weren't pitted against each other like one might expect.
I thought the setting and the premise showed promise, but oddly enough I found it was the writing that kept pulling me out of it? The prose was almost overwrought with a sort of melodrama that was oddly out of place, to me, and I felt kept me at a distance from the story and characters.
For example:
- "His smile slowed down the lash of his words, so when they struck, it was broadside and didn't leave a mark."
I feel just "His smile slowed down the lash of his words" would have sufficed.
- "His fingers, inked and sure, tangled in her curls and pulled her head back, neck bared."
Would it not be "baring her neck"? Otherwise it reads as if he's baring his own neck to her.
- "'I thought girls like you learned to say please and thank you?' he said, amused, like he was talking to a stray that had learned to growl."
It's just a little "off" to me... the first thing I'd expect a stray to do is growl at me, LOL.
That, and there were some instances of phrases and whatnot that felt a bit anachronistic to me, such as a character saying "We're two consenting adults." I'm not so certain someone would have said something like that in the 1920s. But I could see the author's efforts in the conveying the setting, even if I myself didn't feel immersed in it. There's plenty of description of the attire, interiors, etc. Still, something was just missing for me and I wasn't quite "convinced" of the setting.
I like reading about terrible rich people, but I didn't find much to bite into in regards to these characters. That being SAID, someone who just wants to read a steamy little romance with some magic in a fun time period might have plenty of fun with this. Perhaps it's just the tropes and dynamics I don't care for that much! It's just not something I personally read and I can admit that.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I guzzled this novel down in the blink of an eye. It somehow was nothing like what I expected, and yet it was even better. And I very quickly surprised myself with how much I adored and fell into Corvus’ writing. It fit the narrative’s time period and, admittedly, I needed clarification for a handful of words throughout. And it was fantastic.
My favorite aspect, besides the writing style itself, was Mildred and her friendship with Rosie. Mildred’s character was not only funny and sweet and powerful and achingly vulnerable, but she became entirely different to what we are initially led to believe. She morphs from an opponent to our closest ally, someone who arguably knows Rosie even more deeply than her lifelong best friend and love, Devon. It’s easily the most intimate and profound relationship of the novel, to my surprise and delight.
I did find a few pieces of description to be a little too long, and some pacing choices were not my favorite, and yet I devoured the book nonetheless. Rosie frustrated me on occasion, and I felt several times that I could not relate to the lives of these wealthy young adults, though I could not help my connection to them as the story continued to unfold. Despite their different lives and sometimes thoughts that are a little too on the nose, Corvus makes it impossible to not be intrigued and moved by these characters, one way or another.
I will add that I wanted juuuust a little more between Rosie and Raum. He interested me infinitely more than Devon and I would have happily read one hundred more pages if just to explore his world and his connection with Rosie further. And in that, I am excited to see what else might come of them in any upcoming additions to this series. It’s a shame that this book is only just being released and that it is the first, because I could easily read more. Kaitlin Corvus, I will be here when this novel officially meets the world, and I will stay for your future endeavors. This is a lovely, fun novel and I would recommend it with ease.
Thank you very much to NetGalley for this ARC. (:
My favorite aspect, besides the writing style itself, was Mildred and her friendship with Rosie. Mildred’s character was not only funny and sweet and powerful and achingly vulnerable, but she became entirely different to what we are initially led to believe. She morphs from an opponent to our closest ally, someone who arguably knows Rosie even more deeply than her lifelong best friend and love, Devon. It’s easily the most intimate and profound relationship of the novel, to my surprise and delight.
I did find a few pieces of description to be a little too long, and some pacing choices were not my favorite, and yet I devoured the book nonetheless. Rosie frustrated me on occasion, and I felt several times that I could not relate to the lives of these wealthy young adults, though I could not help my connection to them as the story continued to unfold. Despite their different lives and sometimes thoughts that are a little too on the nose, Corvus makes it impossible to not be intrigued and moved by these characters, one way or another.
I will add that I wanted juuuust a little more between Rosie and Raum. He interested me infinitely more than Devon and I would have happily read one hundred more pages if just to explore his world and his connection with Rosie further. And in that, I am excited to see what else might come of them in any upcoming additions to this series. It’s a shame that this book is only just being released and that it is the first, because I could easily read more. Kaitlin Corvus, I will be here when this novel officially meets the world, and I will stay for your future endeavors. This is a lovely, fun novel and I would recommend it with ease.
Thank you very much to NetGalley for this ARC. (:
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 ⭐
I received an ARC from NetGalley — thank you so much to the author and publisher for the early copy!
First of all, I loved Kaitlin Corvus’s writing style. It’s detailed in the best way — the kind of writing that fully immerses you in the world. I personally need a lot of description to properly visualise what’s happening, and this absolutely delivered. I could see everything so clearly.
The 1920s setting was also such a refreshing change from what I normally read. I don’t often pick up books set in that time period, and I really enjoyed the atmosphere and tone it brought to the story.
That said, it is definitely more of a slow burn. Some chapters felt a little long and the pacing won’t be for everyone — but the ending does pack a bit of a shock.
The characters were such a strong point for me. They all felt flawed and human in very different ways. And Mildred! I genuinely went from strongly disliking her to her becoming my favourite character by the end, which I always think is a sign of thoughtful character development.
Going in, the title makes you expect demons and supernatural horror, but what I found most interesting is how the story explores the idea that the real monsters aren’t always supernatural — sometimes they’re the people around us… and sometimes they’re much closer than we’d like to think.
Overall, this is an atmospheric, character-driven story with rich writing. If you enjoy detailed prose, morally complex characters, and a slower build with an impactful finish, this one might be for you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley — thank you so much to the author and publisher for the early copy!
First of all, I loved Kaitlin Corvus’s writing style. It’s detailed in the best way — the kind of writing that fully immerses you in the world. I personally need a lot of description to properly visualise what’s happening, and this absolutely delivered. I could see everything so clearly.
The 1920s setting was also such a refreshing change from what I normally read. I don’t often pick up books set in that time period, and I really enjoyed the atmosphere and tone it brought to the story.
That said, it is definitely more of a slow burn. Some chapters felt a little long and the pacing won’t be for everyone — but the ending does pack a bit of a shock.
The characters were such a strong point for me. They all felt flawed and human in very different ways. And Mildred! I genuinely went from strongly disliking her to her becoming my favourite character by the end, which I always think is a sign of thoughtful character development.
Going in, the title makes you expect demons and supernatural horror, but what I found most interesting is how the story explores the idea that the real monsters aren’t always supernatural — sometimes they’re the people around us… and sometimes they’re much closer than we’d like to think.
Overall, this is an atmospheric, character-driven story with rich writing. If you enjoy detailed prose, morally complex characters, and a slower build with an impactful finish, this one might be for you.
Review of advance copy
This book was sensational. It started out a bit slow but very soon it got it's hooks in me and I almost couldn't put it down. It's now 2.23 am and I've just finished it.
Even if the book started out a bit slow the story was intriguing me from the begining and it only got better and better along the way. Up until the last page and the last sentences.
The only negative thing I have to say about this is that I now have to wait way too long for book two since this isn't even released yet. I was very lucky to recive this ARC for free and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first book I've read by Kaitlin Corvus and I'm rellay impressed and also it's the first book in the series Snake Oil. All the characters was really interesting in their own way and especially so Rosie and Raum. Also the character development was surprising but in the best of ways. It was very interesting to read it through the perspective of a suffrage woman in the 1920s. Her finding her way, place and voice and following along the two sides of the society with prohibition and speakeasies. With a twist of monsters. Delicious.
The story really took me buy surprise and after reading the last sentence all I could think was wow and what will I do until yhe next book in the series will be released?
Yes it's gorey, yes it's brutal but it's also exhilarating and forbodingly exiting. It doesn't make sense, really but all I want is more.
Even if the book started out a bit slow the story was intriguing me from the begining and it only got better and better along the way. Up until the last page and the last sentences.
The only negative thing I have to say about this is that I now have to wait way too long for book two since this isn't even released yet. I was very lucky to recive this ARC for free and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first book I've read by Kaitlin Corvus and I'm rellay impressed and also it's the first book in the series Snake Oil. All the characters was really interesting in their own way and especially so Rosie and Raum. Also the character development was surprising but in the best of ways. It was very interesting to read it through the perspective of a suffrage woman in the 1920s. Her finding her way, place and voice and following along the two sides of the society with prohibition and speakeasies. With a twist of monsters. Delicious.
The story really took me buy surprise and after reading the last sentence all I could think was wow and what will I do until yhe next book in the series will be released?
Yes it's gorey, yes it's brutal but it's also exhilarating and forbodingly exiting. It doesn't make sense, really but all I want is more.
February 22, 2026
I received an advance review copy of No Such Thing As Monsters by Kaitlin Corvus from Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review.
I was immediately drawn to this book by the promise of psychological fantasy with monsters and was expecting a darker, plot-driven story. While the concept had a lot of potential, the overall reading experience fell a bit flat for me.
The strongest aspect of this novel is the writing itself—it’s polished and immersive—and I genuinely enjoyed the characters. Their relationships felt nuanced, and I appreciated how they shifted and developed over the course of the story. Unfortunately, I kept waiting for the plot to fully emerge, and it never quite did. Much of the book felt meandering, and I found myself bored for large stretches despite the interesting ideas beneath the surface.
The ending did add some intrigue and left me thinking, but it wasn’t quite enough to offset the lack of narrative momentum earlier on.
Overall, this is a well-written, character-focused story that may work better for readers who prioritize atmosphere and relationships over plot. For me, it had promise but didn’t fully deliver.
I was immediately drawn to this book by the promise of psychological fantasy with monsters and was expecting a darker, plot-driven story. While the concept had a lot of potential, the overall reading experience fell a bit flat for me.
The strongest aspect of this novel is the writing itself—it’s polished and immersive—and I genuinely enjoyed the characters. Their relationships felt nuanced, and I appreciated how they shifted and developed over the course of the story. Unfortunately, I kept waiting for the plot to fully emerge, and it never quite did. Much of the book felt meandering, and I found myself bored for large stretches despite the interesting ideas beneath the surface.
The ending did add some intrigue and left me thinking, but it wasn’t quite enough to offset the lack of narrative momentum earlier on.
Overall, this is a well-written, character-focused story that may work better for readers who prioritize atmosphere and relationships over plot. For me, it had promise but didn’t fully deliver.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Net Galley for this ARC. This was an interesting start to a new series. The story is set in the 1920's and follows Rosalie, Peter, and Devon. They are young, privileged, and in a constant love triangle. The story takes a twist when they go to the circus and meet the fortune teller. It leads to the age old question: What happens when you make a deal with a devil and what are the consequences? Rosalie then meets Raum, who tells her they are bound and that he will take a life for her. We then follow this group of friends as they make difficult choices, question their friendships, and what they mean to each other. I enjoyed seeing Rosalie come out of her privileged shell and start to see all the grey that makes up the world around us. Additionally, I really enjoyed all historical elements as it provided a great atmosphere and setting for the story. Overall, this was a fun and unique read that explored an interesting take on making a deal with the devil. I give it 3.5 stars, but am rounding up to 4.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I genuinely adored this book. I loved the historical setting far more than I had anticipated and the characters were all engaging and delightful. I’m not even sure what it was about this novel specifically, but I was captivated by it.
Rosalie felt very real as far as characters go in this type of story. She was strong and intelligent, but had reasonable moments of weakness.
Mildred grew on you more and more as the book progressed and I adored her. She was so strong in her own way and Rosie needed that friendship to grow.
I did feel that Devon was a little flat, but that’s probably because Raum was a far better option as a love interest in my mind 😜
All side characters were perfect additions to the plot of this novel.
The book itself was incredibly well written. I was easily immersed throughout reading. I loved the glitz and glamour combined with the dark side of their nightlife and the historical drama of the 20’s. I would absolutely be interested in more books if this becomes a series.
Rosalie felt very real as far as characters go in this type of story. She was strong and intelligent, but had reasonable moments of weakness.
Mildred grew on you more and more as the book progressed and I adored her. She was so strong in her own way and Rosie needed that friendship to grow.
I did feel that Devon was a little flat, but that’s probably because Raum was a far better option as a love interest in my mind 😜
All side characters were perfect additions to the plot of this novel.
The book itself was incredibly well written. I was easily immersed throughout reading. I loved the glitz and glamour combined with the dark side of their nightlife and the historical drama of the 20’s. I would absolutely be interested in more books if this becomes a series.
April 16, 2026
No Such Thing As Monsters is the kind of book that doesn’t hit you all at once.
It creeps in. Quietly. Patiently. And then suddenly you realize you’re already too deep.
Rosie isn’t naive. She doesn’t believe in monsters, and that’s exactly why everything feels so wrong when they start to feel real. There’s no “chosen one” energy here. Just a girl who made one decision to prove a point — and now she has to live with it.
And Raum…
He’s not charming. Not safe. Not someone you’re supposed to fall for.
He feels like a consequence more than a character.
That’s what makes it unsettling.
Nothing here feels like fantasy in the comforting way. It feels… inevitable.
The whole “choose someone for him to kill” isn’t just a dark plot device.
It sits there. Pressing on you the entire time.
Because the question stops being “what will Rosie do?”
And turns into “what would I do?”
The atmosphere is heavy, almost suffocating — all smoke, shadows, and something constantly lurking just out of sight. It’s not beautiful. It’s not romantic.
It’s wrong.
And that’s exactly why it works.
It creeps in. Quietly. Patiently. And then suddenly you realize you’re already too deep.
Rosie isn’t naive. She doesn’t believe in monsters, and that’s exactly why everything feels so wrong when they start to feel real. There’s no “chosen one” energy here. Just a girl who made one decision to prove a point — and now she has to live with it.
And Raum…
He’s not charming. Not safe. Not someone you’re supposed to fall for.
He feels like a consequence more than a character.
That’s what makes it unsettling.
Nothing here feels like fantasy in the comforting way. It feels… inevitable.
The whole “choose someone for him to kill” isn’t just a dark plot device.
It sits there. Pressing on you the entire time.
Because the question stops being “what will Rosie do?”
And turns into “what would I do?”
The atmosphere is heavy, almost suffocating — all smoke, shadows, and something constantly lurking just out of sight. It’s not beautiful. It’s not romantic.
It’s wrong.
And that’s exactly why it works.
Review of advance copy
Unfortunately the monsters we think are hidden are the Men we keep around. Its not all men, but its more than enough. No Such Thing as Monsters throws you through some 1920 prohibition scandles. Deals made in the dark are secrets come to light. One deal sealed with a Kiss takes flight with the destruction of an eye. But the Devil was fond of Rosalie and knew she couldnt make a choice on her own. Raum knew this world and all the evils in its shadows. Devon was too good to see past his best friend. Rosalie was too polite to throw her caution to the wind. Forced to be a living doll in her own mind, but she knew what she had to do. Knew what name she had to speak. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer. Make sure you ruin them before they can poison you. Save the girl worth saving and keep her close. you'll need her with you one day. Kaitlin Corvus knows how to host and keep you turning the pages. 😈🖤✨️
April 5, 2026
Book Review
No Such Thing As Monsters Snake-Oil, Book 1 by Kaitlin Corvus
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Shadow Spark Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book had me captivated from the beginning set in the 1920's it has set it's hooks in me and won't let go!!
There are so many amazing characters and their all their own messes but I'm here for it.
We have Peter and his "love-sick" self, but it's so much more and it is a mess in it's own right.
There's Devon and I still can't tell if he's the real deal or not, maybe he's just that good of a manipulator who knows??
Rosie is my favorite character, she's so wholesome and just a standout character.
I also love Raum, he is my absolute favorite, his darkness is just yummy!!😋 🤤 😋 🤤
This book is so captivating and had me from beginning to end!!
#NoSuchThingAsMonsters #NetGalley
No Such Thing As Monsters Snake-Oil, Book 1 by Kaitlin Corvus
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Shadow Spark Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book had me captivated from the beginning set in the 1920's it has set it's hooks in me and won't let go!!
There are so many amazing characters and their all their own messes but I'm here for it.
We have Peter and his "love-sick" self, but it's so much more and it is a mess in it's own right.
There's Devon and I still can't tell if he's the real deal or not, maybe he's just that good of a manipulator who knows??
Rosie is my favorite character, she's so wholesome and just a standout character.
I also love Raum, he is my absolute favorite, his darkness is just yummy!!😋 🤤 😋 🤤
This book is so captivating and had me from beginning to end!!
#NoSuchThingAsMonsters #NetGalley
Review of advance copy
ARC Reader
For me, it was a bit of a slower start, but I'm glad I kept with it. The story was truly something else. I think for me, I saw it as slower, boring even, because the main concept hadn't truly hit. It happens sometimes, but the book truly did make up for it and more.
A pet peeve I did end up finding was that it felt like some chapters seemed to be so long. It made finding stopping points rougher, as I like to stop to take breaks at chapter ends. The chapters were by far not the longest I've seen out there, but just a pet peeve. Not by any means something that is putting the review down in its rating.
The concept, characters, execution-- all amazing.
At the beginning, I wasn't sure how well I would like Rosalie (Rosie). Though I do have to admit she grew on me. Especially towards the end.
I can't wait for the next book! The cliffhanger truly was diabolical.
For me, it was a bit of a slower start, but I'm glad I kept with it. The story was truly something else. I think for me, I saw it as slower, boring even, because the main concept hadn't truly hit. It happens sometimes, but the book truly did make up for it and more.
A pet peeve I did end up finding was that it felt like some chapters seemed to be so long. It made finding stopping points rougher, as I like to stop to take breaks at chapter ends. The chapters were by far not the longest I've seen out there, but just a pet peeve. Not by any means something that is putting the review down in its rating.
The concept, characters, execution-- all amazing.
At the beginning, I wasn't sure how well I would like Rosalie (Rosie). Though I do have to admit she grew on me. Especially towards the end.
I can't wait for the next book! The cliffhanger truly was diabolical.
March 18, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This gaslamp fantasy is the first in a series, and after finishing it, I already want more. I chose this because I've read a couple of other books by this author that I enjoyed, and I thought the cover for this was beautiful.
I enjoyed everything about this - the 1920s setting, the carnival theme and the characters. We always think of a carnival as a fun location, but the author brought out its dark side here.
The protagonist, Rosie, was an awesome character, and I enjoyed her character development as the story progressed. She had interesting chemistry with the characters, even some that I didn't expect her to have chemistry with at the beginning.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.
This gaslamp fantasy is the first in a series, and after finishing it, I already want more. I chose this because I've read a couple of other books by this author that I enjoyed, and I thought the cover for this was beautiful.
I enjoyed everything about this - the 1920s setting, the carnival theme and the characters. We always think of a carnival as a fun location, but the author brought out its dark side here.
The protagonist, Rosie, was an awesome character, and I enjoyed her character development as the story progressed. She had interesting chemistry with the characters, even some that I didn't expect her to have chemistry with at the beginning.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.
March 18, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is one of the most original books i have ever read. The settings and imagery were fantastic!
The themes of rebellion, finding yourself, and breaking barriers/stereotypes are still themes relevant to today's world. Seeing them in the 1920's era was such a fresh take.
Rosalie "Rosie" Greeves believes in logic, if you can see it it exists. When she is thrust into the world of the mystical and unknown, everything she thought she believed it turned upside down.
With drama, scandal, and 3 men literally willing to do anything for her, Rosie has to make some difficult decisions. It turns out that behind the prettiest masks are the ugliest demons of all.
That ending just blew me away! Bravo to the author for keeping me on the edge of my seat!
This is one of the most original books i have ever read. The settings and imagery were fantastic!
The themes of rebellion, finding yourself, and breaking barriers/stereotypes are still themes relevant to today's world. Seeing them in the 1920's era was such a fresh take.
Rosalie "Rosie" Greeves believes in logic, if you can see it it exists. When she is thrust into the world of the mystical and unknown, everything she thought she believed it turned upside down.
With drama, scandal, and 3 men literally willing to do anything for her, Rosie has to make some difficult decisions. It turns out that behind the prettiest masks are the ugliest demons of all.
That ending just blew me away! Bravo to the author for keeping me on the edge of my seat!
March 15, 2026
Set against a smoky, 1920s backdrop where science clashes with the supernatural, No Such Thing As Monsters is a deliciously atmospheric exploration of power and unintended consequences. Rosie is a refreshing protagonist—sharp-witted and skeptical—whose "rational" decision to drink a circus potion leads to a dark, psychological tether with the intimidating Raum La Roux. The tension between Rosie’s clinical worldview and the visceral, cantankerous reality of her new companion makes for a gripping read, though the pacing occasionally slows under the weight of its own grit. It’s a hauntingly beautiful look at the "monsters" we create through our choices, blending eerie enchantment with a raw look at consent that lingers long after the final page.
March 23, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is set in the 1920's during prohibition times following our FMC, Rosalie, and our 2 MMC's, Devon and Peter.
This story had refreshing world building containing detailed scenes of prohibition times. This is not a normal book atmosphere for me so that was amazing to experience.
Honestly, this story did not go the way I thought it would at all! With an ending twist of bad being good and good being bad, be cautious of who you think the "monster" really is!
Overall, a fantastic story! While it was a little slow for my taste, I know there are readers out there who will love this story for the gem that it is!
This story is set in the 1920's during prohibition times following our FMC, Rosalie, and our 2 MMC's, Devon and Peter.
This story had refreshing world building containing detailed scenes of prohibition times. This is not a normal book atmosphere for me so that was amazing to experience.
Honestly, this story did not go the way I thought it would at all! With an ending twist of bad being good and good being bad, be cautious of who you think the "monster" really is!
Overall, a fantastic story! While it was a little slow for my taste, I know there are readers out there who will love this story for the gem that it is!
February 21, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My review is my own thoughts and has no reflection on the author.
I did struggle with this book. I continued to read as it is well written and had potential for some great twists and turns, however they never came.
The book chapters were extremely long. I didn’t feel like there was a plot.
The last few pages did grip me. But this book was just too much of a slow burn for me.
I did like the characters and I was able to connect with the FMC Rosalie. I feel that she has alot more to give yet in this series.
Review of advance copy
I got an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
As the first book in a series it is always fun to discover a new story and a new world. The setting of the twenties, with carnivals, and speak easies really sets a nice tone and the vibes are real.
The story begins carefully and detailed and the characters feel real and multi dimensional. The relationships between the characters are complex and great to read about.
I really love books that are set in "our" world with a dash of supernatural and this book really delivered. I am looking forward to what else this world will bring and what the characters are up to next.
As the first book in a series it is always fun to discover a new story and a new world. The setting of the twenties, with carnivals, and speak easies really sets a nice tone and the vibes are real.
The story begins carefully and detailed and the characters feel real and multi dimensional. The relationships between the characters are complex and great to read about.
I really love books that are set in "our" world with a dash of supernatural and this book really delivered. I am looking forward to what else this world will bring and what the characters are up to next.
March 18, 2026
With the glitz & glam of the 20s, the intrigue of high society, and an unexpected deal with a demon.. what more could you ask for?!
This book was a diamond! I loved the dark aspects and tones to this book and truly carried for our Rosie. I shipped her so hard with Raum but we never really get a solid wrap up on her love life! Peter played the perfect charming villain throughout and Devon the perfect lover boy. This had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was coming and I DID NOT expect the ending! I think it was wrapped up nicely with a little bow and well deserving of 5 stars from me
March 23, 2026
*ARC Review*
4.5 Stars
It honestly took me a minute to get into, I didn't read the blurb, I fully just went by the vibes of the book cover. I kind of assumed it was a romance, and there were hints of love but it definitely wasn’t. I dont know how to describe the genre from my perspective, but there is in fact a such thing as monsters.
It was really easy to put it down and just hop back into the story, while I was busy trying to be a proper adult, but at about the halfway point. My responsibilities were shoved to the side as things just kept happening, I’m happy this was book one though, while it didn't technically end on a cliffhanger, I do have so many unanswered questions.
4.5 Stars
It honestly took me a minute to get into, I didn't read the blurb, I fully just went by the vibes of the book cover. I kind of assumed it was a romance, and there were hints of love but it definitely wasn’t. I dont know how to describe the genre from my perspective, but there is in fact a such thing as monsters.
It was really easy to put it down and just hop back into the story, while I was busy trying to be a proper adult, but at about the halfway point. My responsibilities were shoved to the side as things just kept happening, I’m happy this was book one though, while it didn't technically end on a cliffhanger, I do have so many unanswered questions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Monster romance, check. Suspense and mystery, check. Romance, check. Banter… CHECK. I went in expecting nothing like this, especially when it came to the monsters, and at times the story felt fever-dreamish in the best way. The FMC was genuinely unique and didn’t feel like your typical romantasy damsel, which I really appreciated. Where this book truly shines is in the lore, the plot, and the pacing—all of which were so well done. From the very first words, I was pulled into this macabre world and couldn’t put it down. I’m really looking forward to seeing more from this series.
May 4, 2026
🧪 Arc Review 🧪
I stepped out of my comfort zone with this one, I've never read a psychological fantasy before however I was deeply impressed and highly pleased. The plot twist was shocking. You meet Rosalie, Devon, and Peter going into this read with a friendship that seems unbreakable until the day they step into a fortune teller's tent and everything unravels. If you're looking for something different with a paranormal twist, this is most definitely the book for you. I received this via Booksirens and this is my honest review.
I stepped out of my comfort zone with this one, I've never read a psychological fantasy before however I was deeply impressed and highly pleased. The plot twist was shocking. You meet Rosalie, Devon, and Peter going into this read with a friendship that seems unbreakable until the day they step into a fortune teller's tent and everything unravels. If you're looking for something different with a paranormal twist, this is most definitely the book for you. I received this via Booksirens and this is my honest review.
March 20, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book, overall, for me was a 3. While I enjoyed the premise (1920s and the supernatural), the pacing and the writing style took me out of the story for the most part. Sometimes it felt as if a scene would never end. I did really like how the ending seemed to be setting the story up, however, I'm not sure if this is a series that I would want to pick back up again.
This book, overall, for me was a 3. While I enjoyed the premise (1920s and the supernatural), the pacing and the writing style took me out of the story for the most part. Sometimes it felt as if a scene would never end. I did really like how the ending seemed to be setting the story up, however, I'm not sure if this is a series that I would want to pick back up again.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Kaitlin Corvus and the publisher for allowing me to read an ARC and provide my honest review. I’m grateful for the opportunity.
No Such Things As Monsters starts off with skeptical and scientific minded Rosalie and her two friends Peter and Devon going to a fortune teller at a circus. One potion later and everything changes. The potion might be named Familiar but things are about to get very strange indeed. A being named Raum invades the edges of her world and claims to be bound to her until she chooses someone for him to kill.
Firstly, I couldn’t put this down. Literally stayed up until 4 am I was so engrossed in the story. The setting was so beautiful and immersive. I could taste the whisky and smell the cigarette smoke in the speakeasy.
Secondly, the characters were both realistic and flawed. Rosie isn’t perfect and neither are her friends. That made me so much more invested in them.
There are moments that the plot slows but for me that just heightened the sense of suspense.
This was an engaging and atmospheric read and I am definitely planning on rereading it in the future.
No Such Things As Monsters starts off with skeptical and scientific minded Rosalie and her two friends Peter and Devon going to a fortune teller at a circus. One potion later and everything changes. The potion might be named Familiar but things are about to get very strange indeed. A being named Raum invades the edges of her world and claims to be bound to her until she chooses someone for him to kill.
Firstly, I couldn’t put this down. Literally stayed up until 4 am I was so engrossed in the story. The setting was so beautiful and immersive. I could taste the whisky and smell the cigarette smoke in the speakeasy.
Secondly, the characters were both realistic and flawed. Rosie isn’t perfect and neither are her friends. That made me so much more invested in them.
There are moments that the plot slows but for me that just heightened the sense of suspense.
This was an engaging and atmospheric read and I am definitely planning on rereading it in the future.
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