Fated to be Monsters

by J. Von Tobel

Anca was born to hunt, but not all monsters are beasts.

The Hunting Households are failing. Her people are starving. And the callous Queen Astasia reigns in luxury.

Anca’s only chance to usurp the cycle of tyranny arrives with an unthinkable hunt a rampaging beast alongside Eugen, a feared former hunter. She discovers that Eugen despises the queen and the hunters, like Anca, who exiled him. Yet as the hunt falters, their mutual hate turns to desire.

But Eugen has more secrets than Anca can imagine. With their prey close, and the fate of their land in the balance, she must choose between what duty demands and what her heart craves.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2025

Reviews

[Alyse R · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 and barely 🌶️. The concept of this book really intrigued me at first and I wanted to absolutely love it but I found it hard to stay engaged with the story. There’s a lot of background information on the Households and hierarchy of the world that seemed to be missing. I found myself a bit confused at first. Anca is a badass FMC and Eugen is a good grumpy morally gray MMC but there was something lacking in the story. If you really loved Game of Thrones and Vikings and monster hunters then this is the story for you. It was still enjoyable to read just not what I was expecting.

I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hunting Households are failing, and the people are going hungry while the queen is living lavishly. Anca has a chance to end the tyranny, but in order to do so, she must team up with Eugen, a former hunter and rival. Anca discovers Eugen hates the queen as well as all the other hunters who exiled him.

Anca and Eugen begin to desire one another, but Eugen has secrets to hide...

With the fate of the land in jeopardy, what choice will Anca make? Will she carry out her duty or give in to her heart?

This imaginative and darkly delicious romantasy was so entertaining! The writing was vivid, and I felt like I was transported right into the fantastical world along with the characters. Anca is a force to be reckoned with! I loved her personality. Enemies to lovers is a favorite trope of mine, and J Von Tobel delivered! Fans of dark fantasy and tension will love this story!

[Jayme Ball · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story.
Particularly the premise of a rage driven powerful beast inside a man, Eugen, the Executioner. The world saw him as a beast that should be put down and never saw him as a man... the queen embraced the powerful beast in him and thus he was able to live a comfortable life as an Executioner.
The struggle to contain anger is something the author is intimately familiar with (as mentioned in acknowledgements), which only adds to my appreciation for the way it is described in the book.

Anca firmly believes that the world needs to change. People are suffering while the Queen thrives in excess and the Nobils live well. As a Nobil, she has a 6th sense of sorts and leads her team of shadow creature hunters. She cares for her people and is known to be a fierce individual and exceptional huntress.
She accepts a particularly challenging hunt of a shadow creature more abominable than any have been before but she will have to be accompanied by members of Queen's Company and the Executioner. This places her at odds with the rest of the Nobils and even with people in her own hunters.

Anca and Eugen start off very rigid with distrust but as they hunt this horrific creature, things slowly but steadily change. Tobel does a wonderful job of writing the development of trust through a variety of challenges and tender moments.
However, Eugen guards a secret that could destroy everything. A source of shame paired with the fire that runs through his veins.

Some criticisms:
-It took a couple chapters for me to settle in overall. I just felt confused.
-The POV changes would have been helpful with character names under chapter number
-I would have liked some insight into Eugen's point of view at the end.
-Also, note that this isn't a Romantasy. It's definitely fantasy WITH romance, but the main plot isn't the romance... the main driving force is fix the kingdom with a heavy dose of "We all deserve a second chance. We are not the stories told about us" and "be better".

I will ABSOLUTELY be reading the second book in the duology.

[Jana.reads1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Loved this! Gives off The Witcher vibes with Game of Thrones.
I was a little bit confused in the beginning, almost felt like I missed a chapter or two or some prologue? But I stuck with it and it was fantastic!! I fell in love with these characters and of course the enemies to lovers is always 🔥 for me.
I was gifted this ARC for an honest review ❤️

[Karidad Ramirez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book of political intrigue overcoming evil, and secrets. A medium-paced story of monsters, hunting, and a dash of romance. We have two fearless main characters with a strong character development and a truly enemies to lovers trope. Eugen’s vulnerability is perfectly written and refreshing in a male character. Anca is the perfect leader who will do what is needed for her people. With a dual POV we can see each MC’s inner turmoil and perspectives throughout the whole story, while also learning of the world-building through each political house. Von Tobel’s writing is vivid and I felt I was right there in their world killing all those monsters.

Their achievements at the end were a flawless set up for the next book and all those feelings portrayed by certain characters and their understanding and acceptance of the consequences towards the end of the story, were heartwarming.

Thank you J. Von Tobel for the opportunity to read this ARC!

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very first chapter you are pulled into a unique world of monsters and mayhem. The FMC & MMC are both strong, skilled warriors! I love the broody, grumpy character of Eugene. I found myself becoming attached to several of the characters only to have one of them taken away so tragically! I enjoyed the world building, adventure & action in this book! If you love monster hunting & bad ass battles, mixed with a little spice & romance, this book is for you!

*Favorite Quotes:

- “You’re confused. It’s your role to kill, not think. Now get to work.”

- “I blinked. I lost myself in a way that I swore to never do again. You brought me back, Nobil Sulia. I’ve never done that before. When I find myself ablaze, I can’t be stopped unless I run out of steam. Everything is murder. All I see is red, but I saw you.”

[Liren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book immensely, and it definitely has 'The Witcher' energy.
The setting is particularly dark and mysterious, and Tobel's writing is lush and atmospheric - whether it's spooky forests, misty swamp lands or ravaged towns, you feel like you're in the thick of it.
The characters are pretty strong and relatable, but the dual POVs helped to highlight the internal and external struggles for all involved. With so many tantalizing clues about the bigger world and conflict, I'm excited to see the rest of their story in the next book.
Setting 5/5
Characters 4/5
Amount of creepy monsters on screen 3/5
Spice Level 2/10

*I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Fated to Be Monsters! I like that it had favored tropes set in a novel world/plot-line which was refreshing, despite having similar themes as other stories.

I feel that this book is a true example of enemies-to-lovers, where the MCs are genuinely enemies - where there is an underlying force discouraging them from being with one another.

There is a lot of current discourse on “men written by women authors” and honestly, I was surprised to realize that Fated to Be Monsters is written by a male - in a good way! I thought the characters were well developed, particularly Anca. I would encourage readers to forgo their pre-conceived notions about male authors and to give this book a go!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review🫶🏻

[Jolie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of Fated To Be Monsters from the author.

It's set in the same world as Curse Of Flame, with different characters but the same overarching magic and religion.

Anca Sulia is the head of her household and an expert tracker. When a monster starts decimating nearby villages, she cleans up after other households and takes the task of hunting the monster.

She's paired with the royal Executioner, Eugen, who hails from a disgrace house due to the magic in their blood that drives them into bloodlust and insanity.

Their characterization and romance were written well. Both are strong characters, and I especially loved how much Eugen was willing to give Anca credit for her hunting prowess.

I think this might be a duology, but the ending was very satisfying. Thank you so much, J, for sending this book to me. I look forward to seeing these characters again (hopefully in a healing journey) in the next book.

[Leigha Lennon · Rating 4 out of 5]

J. Von Tobel’s Fated to be Monsters is a riveting fantasy novel that explores the blurred lines between heroism and villainy, loyalty and betrayal, in a world teetering on the brink of collapse. This dark and introspective tale weaves complex themes with intense character development to deliver a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

Anca, the protagonist, is a compelling figure, born into a lineage of hunters in a society where the opulent queen, Astasia, reigns while her people suffer. Anca's deep sense of duty and her fierce determination make her a relatable heroine, grappling with the weight of her responsibilities and her desire to challenge the status quo. Tobel expertly captures Anca’s internal conflict, as she navigates the decaying world of the Hunting Households and the stark disparities that define her society.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Anca teams up with Eugen, a former hunter who has become a pariah, despised by the very society he once served. Eugen is masterfully portrayed as a man shrouded in bitterness and secrecy, making him a complex counterpart to Anca. Their partnership is initially fraught with tension and distrust, reflective of their past conflicts and current desperation.

As Anca and Eugen embark on their perilous hunt, their journey becomes a catalyst for unexpected growth and shifting allegiances. Tobel does a superb job of developing their relationship, transitioning from animosity to a deeper, albeit reluctant, connection. This slow-burning attraction is skillfully balanced with the broader themes of survival and justice, enhancing the story without overshadowing the primary narrative.

Fated to be Monsters excels in its world-building, depicting a society where the grandeur of the queen’s court contrasts sharply with the grim reality faced by the hunters and the common folk. The setting is richly detailed, providing a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama. The societal structure, with its inherent injustices and the looming threat of collapse, is particularly well-crafted, adding a sense of urgency and gravitas to Anca and Eugen’s mission.

The plot is tightly woven, with each chapter building tension and intrigue. Tobel’s prose is sharp and evocative, capable of conveying complex emotions and lush scenery with equal skill. The action sequences are thrilling and well-paced, punctuated by moments of introspection that deepen the reader's understanding of the characters' motivations and dilemmas.

However, the novel occasionally struggles with pacing, particularly in the buildup to the climax where the convergence of multiple plot lines can feel slightly rushed. Additionally, some secondary characters could benefit from further development to fully realize their roles and impacts on the protagonists’ journey.

Overall, Fated to be Monsters earns a solid four stars for its engaging plot, strong character arcs, and the successful blending of fantasy elements with deep moral questions. J. Von Tobel has crafted a captivating tale that challenges the traditional boundaries of heroism and monstrosity, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy looking for a story that combines action with profound thematic exploration.

[Bevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

CW: violence, gore, ref death of family, some spice, some others.

Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! “Fated to be Monsters” releases April 9, 2025!

It’s giving a little bit of all the best fantasy bits, and I love it.

Hunting monsters is in Anca’s blood. A mantle of nobility and honor, passed down through her lineage, and it’s all come down to doing whatever the spoiled queen of the land commands her to do. Sick of what her life has become, Anca seizes the opportunity to hunt down a most horrible monster, thereby ensuring her rise within the Nobil ranks. The queen is making her own moves, though, sending the only survivor of a disgraced house to accompany Anca’s hunters. Fearsome monsters and unknown curses linger, forcing Anca to come to some difficult realizations.

Listen, where does this book get off thinking that it can deliver some of the most solidly attractive and completely understated lines of dialogue between two MCs that I think I’ve ever seen like it’s nothing? I’m just sitting there, reading along, minding my own business, and the absolute best sentences appear from one to the other with no warning? Unhinged, I tell you (they were perfect; give me more).

The whole book proceeds at this slow and steady pace, but it never gets boring. It took a couple of chapters to really get into things, but even those chapters weren’t dull enough to render the whole book dead in the water. The rest of the book manages a perfect balance between character growth and action, so while we never hit any points where I would call it ‘fast paced’, I also never lost interest. It’s a good balance, and it made the book an enjoyable read.

The buildup between Anca and Eugen is fairly low key, but it’s got enough to it to feel solid. The two even address the fact that they don’t really know each other all that well, which was a refreshing change from some of the insta-attraction/insta-love themes we might see elsewhere. And then, of course, there were those little moments I mentioned before where the two were unreasonably sweet to each other.

The rest of the plot sets up an entire possible future where the next book could swing into either a wholly political fantasy or a predominately action-based plotline; either one would work for the vibes this book has set. This one does both action and politics well, which makes the story engaging, but it doesn’t really get into the nitty gritty of the political side of things. Personally, that was highly appreciated, because I often find that court politics lose my interest if they aren’t supported with at least a little bit of *things* going on. Either way, I’m eager to see how things play out for our MCs.

The marketing for this book has it labeled mainly as a romantasy, but I don’t know if I fully agree with that. There’s romance, and it does a lot, but to me it came across as mostly understated. The real driving force here stayed ‘hunt the monster, fix the kingdom’ pretty much the entire time. I think I’d be more inclined to call it a fantasy with romance. A bit pedantic, to be sure, but to me it conveys the actual contents (at least as I was reading them) a little more accurately. Either way, it’s a really good book, and you should go read it.

[Gabriel Kendrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brutal, beautiful masterpiece that left me undone

Fated to Be Monsters isn’t just a book—it’s a scar carved into my soul in the best possible way. I went into it expecting dark fantasy, sharp prose, maybe some enemies-to-lovers tension. What I didn’t expect was Eugen—and how deeply his struggle would wreck me.

I have never felt a connection to a character like I did with him. His rage didn’t feel like a trope or a plot device. It felt real—like something simmering just under the surface, constantly threatening to consume him. And what hit hardest was how he didn’t want to be feared—he wanted to be understood. That ache, that guilt, that simmering need to not become the monster the world believes him to be… it reached something raw inside me.

And Anca—gods, what a force she is. Her drive, her convictions, the way she sees the world in sharp lines… until those lines start to blur. Watching her confront the truth of who and what she’s been told to hate—and who she becomes in the process—was powerful, painful, and utterly mesmerizing.

J. Von Tobel has written something devastatingly human under the skin of a fantasy epic. It's about monsters, yes—but not just the ones that prowl the woods. It’s about the ones we carry inside us. The ones we hide. The ones we fear will never be worthy of love.

This story devoured me. And I would let it do it again. I’ll be waiting with open arms—and maybe a cracked heart—for the next installment.

[Bailey Pendleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anca was born to hunt, to carry the legacy of her family, but monsters come in many forms she finds. Propelled into a situation to work with a monster to catch a monster, secrets, truths, and more unravel around her opening up a future unknown.

I loved the idea of this novel when I signed up to read it and then I loved the finished product even more! It’s a gritty Romantasy with monsters and monster hunters, world building, political intrigue, gifting and powers, character development, banter and tension, and a solid romance that blooms to make you swoon.

I loved all the characters, some I loved to love and some I loved to hate because they were such well done necessary evils. The unfolding of secrets and political moves and their motives was so good, and the reveal near the 3/4 point of some big things came as a big surprise to me actually.

The world felt vivid and clear, and the monsters were detailed enough to evoke your imagination but still left unclear enough you were able to conjure how monstrous they could be with your own details.

The cliffhanger had me, and I definitely kicked my feet at it. I’m very excited to see what will unfold in the second book and I have some worries about our man Eugen!

I highly recommend this read. I give it 5 stars! I will definitely be thinking about it for a few days and recommending to friends, was an honor to get to ARC read this from the author.

[Sonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story because it's not like the typical monster hunter books out. We have a Fierce FMC who is built for this life and she has no regrets. Monster Hunting is what she does and is on the of the best. Anca has a duty to the citizens of her village and that duty she holds dear. Her village is Her's to protect, and she takes the responsibility seriously. When a rogue shadow monster is on the loose Anca is tasked with bringing the monster down but there is a catch; she must team up with a monster to do it.

Eugen is a former hunter but after he was exiled and his family hunted to near extinction, he now serves as a pawn in the Queen's games. Eugen is a monster, but he tries to so hard to keep his monstrous side in check, but it is difficult when he is surrounded by the very people, he despises: The Queen, Hunters and Monsters alike.

Anca and Eugen has one thing in common and that is their dislike of the current Queen and her tyrannical reign. While the citizens starve the Queen continues to flaunt her riches and luxury.

As Anca and Eugen embark on a danger mission secrets began to surface, and lines begin to blur. The more Anca digs the more questions emerge then answers. One thing is for certain; there is a shadow monster wreaking havoc amongst the villages; two the Queen doesn't seem to have a sense of urgency in the matter and three although working together Anca feels that Eugen is keeping secrets, and she won't rest until she gets the answers she seeks.

Expect to Find:
Fierce FMC
Grumpy Monster MMC
Monster Hunter
Shadow Monster
Violence
Corrupt Kingdom
Political Tyranny
Betrayal
Deception
Magic
Low Spice
Adventure

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anca and Eugen are rival monster hunters who have very different views on a great many things. As they hunt the monster, hatred transposes to passion. Anca must choose between duty and love. Will she follow her heart?

Fated to be Monsters is a gripping romantasy I couldn't put down. The world-building is so immersive, so visually stunning, it rivals Sarah J. Maas. The emotive narration sunk its claws into me and I became a part of the story. But it's the characters and the choices they make which make Fated to be Monsters an unputdownable read.

Let's start with the world-building. For any romantasy to be an epic read, it has to have flawless world-building. Von Tobel takes this challenge and flexes his writing muscles. The world-building is imaginative, well detailed, and without flaw. Sheer brilliance.

The characters truly make this an entertaining read. I connected with the characters, even with the large cast of characters like this one. The sparring between Anca and Eugen adds depth to the overall story. The main characters are original and colorful.

If you're ready for a new voice in romantasy, pick up Fated to be Monsters. It's my latest obsession.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[TheLiterary Mug · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hook, Line & Sinker! Such a unique blend of thrilling, high-staked elements, hierarchy, and fantasy intertwined with well-crafted world building. The harshness, and brutality with rich lore painted unique monsters within, that gave emotional depth of twisted entanglements. Highlighting the appeal of monstrous characters, dangerous territories and creatures combined, set the stage for deep connections with the main FMC Anca often battling her legacy and loyalties with those closest to her while forming an alliance with the MMC Eugene. He who is seen as an outcast, tethering the line of either friend or foe with his own inner demons while overcoming societal prejudices. As they both explore themes of acceptance, their own desires, fighting side by side with comrades for a common goal and righting the wrongs of injustice. The battle has just begun. As the plot thickens, it provides such emotional depth, strong character development with side characters and intense battles to be waged….with the beasts head at their feet.

Definitely a must read!!!

[Sam Soeur-Wollen · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ Fated to be Monsters is set in a world where lands are ruled by Queen Astasia and households protect the people from monsters created by Shadow. People are being killed and hunted by a Shadow monster and Anca is commissioned to hunt it down. She is joined by Eugen, the Executioner, who is from House Furloc which Anca’s family killed off except for him. Eugen is seen as a monster himself because of the power in his blood and the other households do not want him alive.

Anca and Eugen start off as foes as they hunt the monster. Along the way, Anca becomes attracted to him and sees the man underneath the “monster”. Eugen too develops feelings for her as she shows that she cares for protecting her people.

Overall, it’s a good story. I enjoyed going on the adventure with both Anca and Eugen. The story was remind me a little of the Witcher which I like. There are monsters, magic, and love. I’m interested in seeing what other adventures Anca and Eugen will go on.

[J.L. Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anca is from a long line of monster hunters, so when a shadow beast slaughters a small town, the queen commissions her to kill the creature. However, Queen Anastasia sends Eugen, a notorious former hunter, to accompany her. From a disgraced House, Eugen has little respect for Anca and harbors a deep resentment for the Houses that destroyed his. Reluctantly complying with the Queen’s wishes, as Anca’s hunting party tracks the monster through savage lands, she learns Eugen hides a dark secret that may derail their mission. Told from alternating points of view, Anca and Eugen are flawed but highly compelling characters, each a fearless predator struggling with their own inner demons. Von Tobel effortlessly weaves his world-building into their narrative with enough descriptions of House politics to paint a rich backdrop, but maintains the story’s focus on his main characters who learn that sometimes the enemy at their side is more than they may appear to be.

[Kenziey · Rating 5 out of 5]

spice rating 🌶
This was a thrilling story full of nightmarish creatures, striking imagery, political intrigue, and secret romance! 🔥
Anca and Eugen are both forces to be reckoned with. I loved seeing the complexity of their characters and the depth of their relationship unfold! Though they both are tough and formidable on the outside, they feel deeply for the good of their people and each other, respectively. I loved seeing their different sides through the dual POV and inner dialogue. Anca's sarcasm had me chuckling, and Eugen's jekyll and hyde quality gives you more insight into the man behind the monster.
The nightmarish creatures and gripping imagery of their world had me on the edge of my seat! These creatures will definitely haunt your nightmares! The witty banter was a nice comedic relief. I can't wait to see what unfolds next!
Side note: I absolutely loved the dedication!!

Thank you so much for the ARC!

[bbs_bookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, thank you to the author for gifting this ebook to review early. Fated to be Monsters is unlike many other fantasy novels out right now. The fmc is a monster hunter and the leader of her family's ancient seat of power. She is set by the queen to hunt down a monster that is killing villages and other powerful leaders in their kingdom. Her willingness to do this job is guided by her drive to make the kingdom better and more fair for all in it. She is accompanied by the queen's executioner, who possesses dangerous dark magic that has been all but eradicated in their lands. Our fmc sees him as a threat at first, but a reluctant ally ship forms.

The writing in this novel is great. The world building and magic system is easy to understand. The beginning of the novel felt a little slow to start, but by the end it was hard to put down. I look forward to seeing what happens next in this series.

[Chasity Trimble · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me just say although it did take me a wee bit to get a grasp of what was going on, a little confused at first. It didn’t take long to get my bearings and I devoured it! I truly enjoyable read! I loved the characters especially Anca! She is a fearless baddie for sure! I enjoyed Eugen’s character as well and was delighted that he didn’t overstep on protectiveness and empowered Anca to be the fierce warrior that she is.

The author did a remarkable job with character development as well as world building. I was drawn into the story with Tobel’s descriptive writing and engaging dialogue. The plot I felt was amazing and the pace was spot on. Thrilling story with monsters, magic, battles and emotional stakes all that will keep you captivated until the end. More of a fantasy with elements of romance, than a romantasy … and one that is well worth the read! I will definitely be reading book 2!

[Nichole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Fated to be Monsters
Author: @jvontobelwrites
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 🌶

"When I find myself ablaze, I can't be stopped unless I run out of steam. Everything is murder. All I see is red, but I saw you."

"We barely know each other, but it feels real to me. When I'm around you, it's like I'm breathing again."

Fated to be Monsters is a fantasy with darkness and a mysterious vibe. There is some romance, and I truly enjoyed those romance moments between the MCs. There is tension, uncertainty, and a desire for wanting more than companionship. As they are on a mission to hunt a Beast like none they've seen before, they journey through unknown parts of their world. Eugen is an MMC that I loved reading about. His backstory is truly what molded the person he is and how he is portrayed in people's eyes. Anca is a fierce FMC with some spunk and bravery. I love her outspoken demeanor and her motivation to want a change for the better of the world. These two MCs are so different but similar in so many ways. They both had some character growth as the story progressed.

This book is written from Anca & Eugen's POV, which gives a better depth of their feelings and emotions throughout the story. The enemies to lovers are definitely happening, and I loved every moment of it. The magic system is great, and the overall flow of the story is well paced.

[Chelbie Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a world ravished by Shadow monsters, Anca and Eugen are its saviors. But not all monsters are Shadow, some are flesh & bone, some are even human. Will they defeat the beast or will the beasts within them doom them all?

This story was good although it felt very different from what I usually read. It was heavy on hunting & monsters with a small dash of romance. Brave warriors set out to defeat the beasts & escape their “Fated Death”.

Anca is an intelligent, strong, driven FMC. She is a Nobil. A Hunter her entire life. Tasked with the impossible task of killing the biggest threat their world has ever faced. All while working alongside the enemy, our MMc, Eugen. The Executioner with the monster in his veins.

This book is for you if you like otherworldly beasts, monster hunting, action, romance with low spice and a theme of overcoming evil. Rated 3.5⭐️!

[Brianna McAllister · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌶🌶.5
• Dual POV
• Enemies to Lovers
• Close Proximity
• Monsters
• Forbidden Romance
• Secrets

I absolutely love this book! It's giving "Game of Thrones" and "Tremors" all in one! The world building and monsters are unlike anything I've read about before! It is written in a dual POV, so we get all the inside thoughts from the main characters, which is a 10/10.

Anca is a bada** FMC. She is strong and a born leader. Eugene is the morally grey MMC. He struggles with his past, but who doesn't love a book boyfriend with a dark side? Helloooo Fire Daddy! 🔥

Another one of my most favorite aspects of the book is the banter. I love a good comeback, and these characters are full of them.

I can't wait to see where J. Von Tobel takes us. I am ready for book #2

*I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Smut Goblin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monsters don’t have to stay monsters; they can break free from the grip of anger and choose to grow, letting peace rewrite their story.

"A person can be two things." - Eugen Furloc

Fated to be Monsters is a story of love, second chances, bittersweet redemption, and sacrifice. If you are a fan of feisty FMC's, broody MMC's, monsters, devious court politics, and good vs. evil, there is a good chance you will love this! The spice is minimal but it is scorching HOT.

If you love Hunt Athalar from Crescent City, or Lowe Moreland from Bride by Ali Hazelwood, you will LOVE our MMC Eugen!

If you love Mira Sorrengail from Iron Flame, or Ahnna Kertell from Twisted Throne, you will LOVE our FMC Anca!

I really enjoyed this and I am definitely looking forward to the continuation of the story in book 2!

[Jana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fated to be Monsters by J. Von Tobel takes you into a dark, magical world where power struggles between noble houses collide with the attacks of horrifying shadow creatures. The main characters are Anca, a fierce and determined monster hunter, and Eugen, a brooding executioner with a blood-stained past and dangerous abilities.

The story immediately starts with a brutal attack by a monstrous entity, prompting Queen Astasia to send Anca on a mission to track it down. Much to her dismay, she's paired with Eugen. Their uneasy alliance gradually shifts as they journey through treacherous lands, hunting a nightmare beast while confronting personal demons and buried secrets.

While the characters are fun, the emotional stakes and main conflict compelling, the world-building doesn’t always hit the mark and lacks some depth. But Fated to be Monsters does offers an engaging and enjoyable ride.

[Melina · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars & a little bit of 🔥

This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. Initially, I was leaning towards giving it four stars, but after finishing it and reflecting on my feelings, I’ve decided to bump it up to four and a half stars.

The first third of the book was a bit slow, as is often the case with fantasy novels, because we’re introduced to the intricate world, the array of names, places, and everyone's titles and ranks. However, from the 30% mark onward, I couldn’t put it down. The story became incredibly engaging, and I was captivated by the competent and fierce Anca. I also genuinely appreciated the vulnerability shown by Eugen, and I am very much looking forward to his evolution in the next book.

I received this as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Stacie Peck · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Fated to Be Monsters" totally delivered! It hit all my favorite tropes with a fresh, innovative plot that kept me hooked. This wasn't just another rehash; it felt genuinely new.

If you're a fan of enemies-to-lovers done right, this is it. The tension was real, with a believable, powerful force keeping the MCs apart. It's the kind of slow-burn that makes you ache for them to get together.

And here's the kicker: this gem is written by a male author! Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised. The characters, especially Anca, felt incredibly well-developed. I'd urge anyone to ditch their preconceptions and dive into this fantastic read.

Huge thanks for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[jessi_reading_corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really intrigued by the concept of this book. Witcher vibes!
I must admit I was a little confused for the first couple of chapters, and I worried I may have to dnf, but I am so glad I didn't!
I enjoyed the characters, especially Anca, strong, determined and a badass, who took no sh*t from anyone!
The idea of different households was cool, and I especially love house of Furloc, I possibly had a thing for Eugene! Rage driven, and powerful, a beast inside him, or so people thought. I loved his vulnerable side.
Medium based, hunting monsters and a splash of romance. A true enemies to lovers trope!
Unique world, with a dark and mysterious setting. I enjoy Jon's writing. Looking forward to what comes next in, book two!

[Enchanted Reads and Roasts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The plot was very well thought out and written. It was very “Witcher-esque” with the theme of hunting for monsters in a foreign land with elements of fantasy and magic.

Loved the dialogue and interactions between the MMC and FMC. I’m not usually one for dual POVs, but it was pulled off well within this storyline.

Would absolutely recommend this to other readers, especially if they enjoy shows such as The Witcher, Shadow and Bone, and October Faction. Looking forward to the second book!

I wish given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.