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The Shades of Sanctuary #3
The Rake OR The Orca Who Met His Match in a Selkie Desiring Revenge: A Cozy, Spicy Gaslamp Monster Romance
It only takes a taste...
Lost in strange waters after a narrow escape from captivity, Elspeth the selkie is determined to find and free her brother. When she runs into an orca-shifter who mistakes her for lunch, one drop of his blood on her pelt binds her to him... forever.
Aegir is a notoriously talented shifter, playing pirates and playboys wherever his covert operations--or many lovers--take him. But when the selkie he rescued vanishes, he's plagued by memories of her... and a letter that spells out her doom. As they come together to rescue Elspeth's brother, both must navigate their traumas, a bond neither wanted, and growing feelings for each other. Can Elspeth learn to trust someone who wears a different face every day?
Lost in strange waters after a narrow escape from captivity, Elspeth the selkie is determined to find and free her brother. When she runs into an orca-shifter who mistakes her for lunch, one drop of his blood on her pelt binds her to him... forever.
Aegir is a notoriously talented shifter, playing pirates and playboys wherever his covert operations--or many lovers--take him. But when the selkie he rescued vanishes, he's plagued by memories of her... and a letter that spells out her doom. As they come together to rescue Elspeth's brother, both must navigate their traumas, a bond neither wanted, and growing feelings for each other. Can Elspeth learn to trust someone who wears a different face every day?
455 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2025
234 people are currently reading
1137 people want to read
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March 21, 2025the fuck. did i read that correctly???
February 3, 2025
This was really cute. It somehow had really high stakes while also feeling like a cozy read. I really don't think I've read another book quite like this one.
I love how much her tried to help her work through her trauma 🥹. He was just so sweet and there for her, never pressuring her or pushing her. Just the sweet, supportive, and devoted man she needed.
I also loved the footnotes. Scattered throughout the book are fun little footnotes the author left but they're told as if written by another character.
Thank you to the author for the gifted arc
I love how much her tried to help her work through her trauma 🥹. He was just so sweet and there for her, never pressuring her or pushing her. Just the sweet, supportive, and devoted man she needed.
I also loved the footnotes. Scattered throughout the book are fun little footnotes the author left but they're told as if written by another character.
Thank you to the author for the gifted arc
February 16, 2025
In which bookish art made me pick up a book…
Knock me over with a feather - this book I found based on just character art gave me the best little journey ever.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The Rake OR the Orca Who Met His March in a Selkie Desiring Revenge by Kass O’Shire
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Shades of Sanctuary character series. Book 3.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Fantasy/paranormal romance
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Opposites attract, accidental mating, pirate vibes, she takes control.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Elspeth escapes capture by elves only to end up in the jaws of an orca shifter, Aegir. When the pair unintentionally triggers the selkie mating bond, they set out on a journey to free Elspeth’s family and break their accidental connection.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: So here I am one day, scrolling Instagram, when I come across this character art of this giant, thicc man. And I go to find out more information, and I find out HE’S AN ORCA.
I picked up this book - the third in a series I haven’t read, by an author I don’t know - and couldn’t put it down. It was so much fun, and such a unique story, which I don’t find so often anymore.
The setting was unique and detailed, but the world building was well done enough that I could follow along without confusion. And the plot itself was paced really well.
But what I really loved were the characters. Aegir was a resistance spy who could shift at will, and had lost a bit of his true self by always being undercover. Elspeth was recovering from trauma. They both have incredible banter and connection, and the undercurrent of not knowing what is real or what is the bond. I loved that they were both so earnest and careful with one another. In a story that had tension and twists, the romance was truly cozy and I LOVED that. I laughed and swooned accordingly.
I can’t wait to read more in this universe…. But may I recommend starting by checking out the art? Word has it, you won’t be able to resist.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3/5 🌶🌶🌶
Knock me over with a feather - this book I found based on just character art gave me the best little journey ever.
📕 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The Rake OR the Orca Who Met His March in a Selkie Desiring Revenge by Kass O’Shire
📙 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Shades of Sanctuary character series. Book 3.
📗 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: E-book on Kindle. 🆓️ on KU
📘 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Fantasy/paranormal romance
📔 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Opposites attract, accidental mating, pirate vibes, she takes control.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Elspeth escapes capture by elves only to end up in the jaws of an orca shifter, Aegir. When the pair unintentionally triggers the selkie mating bond, they set out on a journey to free Elspeth’s family and break their accidental connection.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: So here I am one day, scrolling Instagram, when I come across this character art of this giant, thicc man. And I go to find out more information, and I find out HE’S AN ORCA.
I picked up this book - the third in a series I haven’t read, by an author I don’t know - and couldn’t put it down. It was so much fun, and such a unique story, which I don’t find so often anymore.
The setting was unique and detailed, but the world building was well done enough that I could follow along without confusion. And the plot itself was paced really well.
But what I really loved were the characters. Aegir was a resistance spy who could shift at will, and had lost a bit of his true self by always being undercover. Elspeth was recovering from trauma. They both have incredible banter and connection, and the undercurrent of not knowing what is real or what is the bond. I loved that they were both so earnest and careful with one another. In a story that had tension and twists, the romance was truly cozy and I LOVED that. I laughed and swooned accordingly.
I can’t wait to read more in this universe…. But may I recommend starting by checking out the art? Word has it, you won’t be able to resist.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 3/5 🌶🌶🌶
August 29, 2025
This was intense and dealt with so much trauma, but was tender and lovely too. Aegir was a rake and a spy, but also a genuinely kind person and a consent king. Elspeth was living in a strict routine before she was kidnapped. Her meet disaster with Aegir was awful, but also a chance for her to come in contact with someone who didn’t want to take advantage of her. I liked that they had to work together to find safe ways for her to be intimate and that it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, because it made it feel more real. Aegir had his own growth arc of letting down his personas that he used as a shield. I loved that both of them were plus size and that it wasn’t spoken about like something they should be ashamed of, even internally. Great story.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: kidnapping, captivity, repeated SA (off page), sex trafficking, psychological torture, loss of autonomy, FMC is bitten when MMC tries to hunt and eat her when he thinks she’s just a seal, physical violence, blood, panic attacks including dissociation, touch aversion, brief gaslighting during banter, stabbing, BDSM without proper planning
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: kidnapping, captivity, repeated SA (off page), sex trafficking, psychological torture, loss of autonomy, FMC is bitten when MMC tries to hunt and eat her when he thinks she’s just a seal, physical violence, blood, panic attacks including dissociation, touch aversion, brief gaslighting during banter, stabbing, BDSM without proper planning
April 16, 2025
It was nice at first but I got bored at 50% and I'm sad about it
December 9, 2025
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series. I'm so excited to finally be reading more from Kass O'Shire, and just in time to attend an author even this coming weekend!
Please be aware that this book does contain darker themes and to check CWs/TWs. You know you best.
Please be aware that this book does contain darker themes and to check CWs/TWs. You know you best.
April 3, 2025
3.5/4
I don’t want you to be trapped with me, Elspeth. I want you to choose me.
4⭐️
Such a cute story. We have a great adventure with secrets, battle, trauma and love.
I lived how tender and attentive Aegir (our man) was, especially when he realised all the horrors Elspeth faced.
Just imagine huge man who is giving us space and time to explore him and attraction between us. The man who wants to find a way to unbond us, so we have a choice, the man who will surrender and allow us to bind him for exploitation.
I loved the idea that even with victories she still can have flashbacks and panic attacks, that she is still healing.
I don’t want you to be trapped with me, Elspeth. I want you to choose me.
4⭐️
Such a cute story. We have a great adventure with secrets, battle, trauma and love.
I lived how tender and attentive Aegir (our man) was, especially when he realised all the horrors Elspeth faced.
Just imagine huge man who is giving us space and time to explore him and attraction between us. The man who wants to find a way to unbond us, so we have a choice, the man who will surrender and allow us to bind him for exploitation.
I loved the idea that even with victories she still can have flashbacks and panic attacks, that she is still healing.
February 5, 2025
This has easily been one of my most anticipated reads, one in which I was so lucky to get an ARC. Aegir caught my attention fast in the last book, and I was so excited for his own story which didn’t let me down.
The beginning is a little discombobulated but on purpose as we’re experiencing it with the traumatized Elspeth who gives us a rushed (but thankfully and seemingly also on purpose) account of being kidnapped along with her brother and experiencing abuse from her kidnapper. There’s no detail, just the emotions, to keep it from getting too too heavy and the way it goes about this worked well for me.
Aegir and Ellie also feel so fleshed out. I’d 100% sign up for more adventures with Ellie and Aegir easily. Their banter was so fresh and real throughout.
There’s a big fight scene that does end pretty bloody but I really appreciate how it’s written. We get to see Ellie both work through her trauma while Aegir continues to support her.
I’ll keep the spoilers light, but the ending was just so sweet and heartwarming. My favorite kind of end to a fantasy adventure story.
The only down side is there’s a fun solo scene of Aegir that I figured we’d revisit the details of but sadly nope. I’d love even a short story more!
The beginning is a little discombobulated but on purpose as we’re experiencing it with the traumatized Elspeth who gives us a rushed (but thankfully and seemingly also on purpose) account of being kidnapped along with her brother and experiencing abuse from her kidnapper. There’s no detail, just the emotions, to keep it from getting too too heavy and the way it goes about this worked well for me.
Aegir and Ellie also feel so fleshed out. I’d 100% sign up for more adventures with Ellie and Aegir easily. Their banter was so fresh and real throughout.
There’s a big fight scene that does end pretty bloody but I really appreciate how it’s written. We get to see Ellie both work through her trauma while Aegir continues to support her.
I’ll keep the spoilers light, but the ending was just so sweet and heartwarming. My favorite kind of end to a fantasy adventure story.
The only down side is there’s a fun solo scene of Aegir that I figured we’d revisit the details of but sadly nope. I’d love even a short story more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2025
I'm utterly in love with this book. This is an absolutely enchanting story. Set in a cozy fantasy monster romance series of interconnected standalones, this manages to balance whimsical charm with deeply resonant character arcs. This book truly stands out as something special. It is cozy without EVER being boring. This story is about these characters and I'm utterly, completely enchanted by them both.
At its heart, this story is about two complex souls healing together. Elspeth is burdened with significant trauma - something that happens quickly to set the story, but thankfully does not linger. She finds solace and growth in a bond that neither she nor Aegir wanted at first, but which ultimately makes them both better. I absolutely adore books where love interests push each other to evolve into something stronger than they ever were on their own—that’s what true love is all about. And here, the chemistry is undeniable. These characters are phenomenal.
The story is filled with the kind of healing, tender moments, and witty banter that make you fall in love with the characters over and over again. And the spice is exceptional given that it is warm and open and vulnerable. O'Shire's writing style is as engaging as ever. Special mention to the INCREDIBLE art in this one. Every single piece of it takes my admiration for the story to a whole new level—I'm utterly obsessed.
Overall, this is an incredible story of healing, growth, and love. This is everything I love about monster romance and it made me so happy.
Thanks to the lovely author for the complimentary pre-released copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
At its heart, this story is about two complex souls healing together. Elspeth is burdened with significant trauma - something that happens quickly to set the story, but thankfully does not linger. She finds solace and growth in a bond that neither she nor Aegir wanted at first, but which ultimately makes them both better. I absolutely adore books where love interests push each other to evolve into something stronger than they ever were on their own—that’s what true love is all about. And here, the chemistry is undeniable. These characters are phenomenal.
The story is filled with the kind of healing, tender moments, and witty banter that make you fall in love with the characters over and over again. And the spice is exceptional given that it is warm and open and vulnerable. O'Shire's writing style is as engaging as ever. Special mention to the INCREDIBLE art in this one. Every single piece of it takes my admiration for the story to a whole new level—I'm utterly obsessed.
Overall, this is an incredible story of healing, growth, and love. This is everything I love about monster romance and it made me so happy.
Thanks to the lovely author for the complimentary pre-released copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
February 9, 2025
2.5★
I'd like to thank the author for offering me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In the end, it was a rather mixed read for me and I'm deeply apologetic about that.
We can see that the author has created a whole world and that she wants us to discover it, but unfortunately this results in a lot of blatant infodumps, particularly concerning the character of Aegir.
Speaking of the characters, I found them rather flat, they didn't really have a personality of their own. And even though part of me appreciated Aegir's tender, gentle side, because it's pretty rare to find a love interest like that, I have to admit that I would have liked more spice.
Aegir is sold as a fairly playboy character so I was expecting quite a bit of engaging banter between the two, and no...
As for Elspeth, she reminded me a bit of Ariel, but that's about it.
As for the author's writing, I'd like to point out that I'm by no means a professional, but I found it quite beginnerish in the sense that it can sometimes be a bit heavy. But what really struck me was the number of times the words ‘I imagine’ and ‘I suppose’ were used in the dialogue. I was personally (which doesn't mean that the author is) afraid of simply quoting things clearly, of imposing them as this or that, so I always distanced myself by expressing doubt.
To finish on a positive note, I really like the Selkie aspect of the book (even if I don't think it's there enough) and the little phrases announcing events at the beginning of each chapter were nice, creating a pleasant sense of anticipation.
I'd like to thank the author for offering me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In the end, it was a rather mixed read for me and I'm deeply apologetic about that.
We can see that the author has created a whole world and that she wants us to discover it, but unfortunately this results in a lot of blatant infodumps, particularly concerning the character of Aegir.
Speaking of the characters, I found them rather flat, they didn't really have a personality of their own. And even though part of me appreciated Aegir's tender, gentle side, because it's pretty rare to find a love interest like that, I have to admit that I would have liked more spice.
Aegir is sold as a fairly playboy character so I was expecting quite a bit of engaging banter between the two, and no...
As for Elspeth, she reminded me a bit of Ariel, but that's about it.
As for the author's writing, I'd like to point out that I'm by no means a professional, but I found it quite beginnerish in the sense that it can sometimes be a bit heavy. But what really struck me was the number of times the words ‘I imagine’ and ‘I suppose’ were used in the dialogue. I was personally (which doesn't mean that the author is) afraid of simply quoting things clearly, of imposing them as this or that, so I always distanced myself by expressing doubt.
To finish on a positive note, I really like the Selkie aspect of the book (even if I don't think it's there enough) and the little phrases announcing events at the beginning of each chapter were nice, creating a pleasant sense of anticipation.
February 19, 2025
I find this whole series so cozy and romantic. It obv deals with very serious topics (abduction, SA) but this world and characters Kass has created feel comforting. I knew I would just absolutely fall in love. Aegir is so confident. He is very swoony. I love how careful and caring he is. He is such a good partner, always respecting boundaries and being so safe. SWOON.
Elspeth, sweet firery Elspeth! I freaking love her. talk about resilience. She went through so much and then decided she was not going to just give up but fough for herself and her family. Seeing her take back her power and find freedom and joy and safety in intimacy with Aegir...I can't express how much I loved it.
I feel like I waited a lifetime to read this. have been pining for this since the first time Kass shared art on her insta for the book. If you have read any of the other Shades of Sanctuary books, then absolutely do not skip this.
Elspeth, sweet firery Elspeth! I freaking love her. talk about resilience. She went through so much and then decided she was not going to just give up but fough for herself and her family. Seeing her take back her power and find freedom and joy and safety in intimacy with Aegir...I can't express how much I loved it.
I feel like I waited a lifetime to read this. have been pining for this since the first time Kass shared art on her insta for the book. If you have read any of the other Shades of Sanctuary books, then absolutely do not skip this.
March 13, 2025
This was a great cozy monster romance. This is book three in The Shades Of Sanctuary series, but can easily be read as a standalone. I loved following the main characters Elspeth and Aegir in this story and seeing how their relationship developed. I especially loved how supportive Aegir was of Elspeth as she worked through her trauma. There was so much to this character driven story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one.
Read this if you like:
📖 Cozy fantasy
📖 Monster romance
📖 Selkies and orca shifters
📖 Accidental mates
📖 Lots of spice
Thank you to @thenerdfam for the gifted copy.
Read this if you like:
📖 Cozy fantasy
📖 Monster romance
📖 Selkies and orca shifters
📖 Accidental mates
📖 Lots of spice
Thank you to @thenerdfam for the gifted copy.
February 6, 2025
Just when I was in need of a nice cozy monster Romance, the nerd family came through with this ARC! This was a perfect palate cleanser with a HEA. The world was very new and fresh and the storyline felt that way as well. The chemistry between Ellie and Aegir built and flowed naturally to me as the reader. This was my first book by Kass O’shire and I will return to her other novels. All in all, a great story!
February 8, 2025
OH. MY. GOD. I'm obsessed. I loved every single moment. Both characters were beautifully written, and although the stakes were high, it still felt super cozy. As well, the footnotes were very amusing and informative.
Thank you Kass O'Shire, for giving me an arc for this wonderfully written book!
Thank you Kass O'Shire, for giving me an arc for this wonderfully written book!
March 29, 2025
This is a spicy monster romance between a selkie and an orca shifter, so if you like spicy cozy fantasy books then I recommend Thai! It was cute, it was sweet, and it had me giggling and kicking my feet. I recommend.
February 10, 2025
Definitely my favorite of this series!
February 18, 2025
High stakes meets cozy in this gas lamp monster romance! This is the perfect vibes if you're looking for a palette cleanser.
This book is fast paced and the perfect slow burn. I've never read anything like this. I really enjoyed the selkie and orca shapeshifter aspect. Also, you can tell a lot of work went into the lore and world building. I look forward to reading her other books!
Thank you @thenerdfam and @kassoshire for the gifted ebook and physical arc!-Ash
This book is fast paced and the perfect slow burn. I've never read anything like this. I really enjoyed the selkie and orca shapeshifter aspect. Also, you can tell a lot of work went into the lore and world building. I look forward to reading her other books!
Thank you @thenerdfam and @kassoshire for the gifted ebook and physical arc!-Ash
August 1, 2025
This one was tough for me at first! I was close to putting this book down and walking away but someone hounded me to continue and I’m very glad she did. I had to adjust to the writing style, specially cause I forget how she writes the story in third person view. It got better for me after they finally met and then something that I didn’t like at first became a enhancement when it came down to them. Until it got spicy then it would lose me for a bit but when it came to explaining the characters wants, needs and their inner being. It was a spectacle to read. Throw in world building and yes it got pretty good. Yeah good story but I had my dislikes.
March 5, 2025
I love a book with footnotes. It was written as if documented for some historical archive and there are footnotes which sometimes explain things in further detail and sometimes are just funny. The Rake is actually the third in an ongoing series, but it also reads perfectly fine as a stand-alone. I thought it was cute and cozy and kept my attention well. Some of the writing was a little off and some of the phrasing was sort of awkward. Could have maybe used one more edit. Overall, though, I thought it was a sweet little romantasy- I loved both of the main characters and how they interacted together. I would recommend this book to fans of Tessonja Odette and romantasy adventure in general.
March 14, 2025
I absolutely love the Shades of Sanctuary series, and am thrilled to say that this book hit just as greatly as the previous two have. Kass' writing always pulls me in, making me feel like I'm anywhere but here, the world building is phenomenal and I adore the way the author never fails to craft such fun and imaginative settings- whether it's on a ship in the sea or a cosy nook in a magical library!
This instalment followed adorable, plus sized selkie Elspeth and roguish yet sweet orca shifter Aegir. I loved both characters and felt that they had such depth to their personalities, especially due to each of their personal hurdles and pasts. I especially felt for Elspeth, who had her own trauma from the beginning events of the book. I liked that with the slow and steady help of Aegir, her accidental mate, she began to heal and find herself once more.
The romance was extremely cute, with it starting off as a one-sided enemies to lovers, then gradually moving to black cat and golden retriever vibes as Elspeth softens to Aegir, but that's long after he finds himself utterly enamoured by his little siren. The spice was really well written too, taking lots of consideration with Elspeth's touch aversion and her needs. Aegir allowed her to take charge when needed, and he never made her feel uncomfortable.
The plot was fairly straightforward until the end when the action began and ended swiftly. I enjoyed the swashbuckling adventure aspects along with the focus of Elspeth healing and Aegir learning to accept himself. I had such a blast seeing old characters again, the found family vibes were immaculate. The ending did feel quite sudden, with the rescue of Elspeth's brother Feann being over and done with quickly, but I didn't mind.
The story leaves us with a happy ending, though there's a few loose threads explained to be tied up in Feann's own book, and we're given the title and couple of next book too, which I'm obviously excited for, especially because Jokith and Dahlia are going to be super fun!
4/5 🌟
This instalment followed adorable, plus sized selkie Elspeth and roguish yet sweet orca shifter Aegir. I loved both characters and felt that they had such depth to their personalities, especially due to each of their personal hurdles and pasts. I especially felt for Elspeth, who had her own trauma from the beginning events of the book. I liked that with the slow and steady help of Aegir, her accidental mate, she began to heal and find herself once more.
The romance was extremely cute, with it starting off as a one-sided enemies to lovers, then gradually moving to black cat and golden retriever vibes as Elspeth softens to Aegir, but that's long after he finds himself utterly enamoured by his little siren. The spice was really well written too, taking lots of consideration with Elspeth's touch aversion and her needs. Aegir allowed her to take charge when needed, and he never made her feel uncomfortable.
The plot was fairly straightforward until the end when the action began and ended swiftly. I enjoyed the swashbuckling adventure aspects along with the focus of Elspeth healing and Aegir learning to accept himself. I had such a blast seeing old characters again, the found family vibes were immaculate. The ending did feel quite sudden, with the rescue of Elspeth's brother Feann being over and done with quickly, but I didn't mind.
The story leaves us with a happy ending, though there's a few loose threads explained to be tied up in Feann's own book, and we're given the title and couple of next book too, which I'm obviously excited for, especially because Jokith and Dahlia are going to be super fun!
4/5 🌟
February 13, 2025
Genre: Adult Paranormal (Monster) Romance
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
Every book in the Shades of Sanctuary series may be read as stand-alones, but I recommend every single one!
Tropes & themes: FM, selkie FMC & orca shifter MMC, accidental mating, selkie lore, reformed rake, obsessed MMC, slow burn, reluctant allies to lovers, only one bed, revenge, bondage, cum pants cunnilingus, magical peen, & more
Spoiler-free Summary:
After a harrowing escape, Elspeth is wandering the seas in her seal form when a rather insistent orca tries to eat her. Upon walking, she realizes that the orca in question is a highly talented, very rakish, shape-shifting man named Aegir. Acting the gentleman, Aegir allows Elspeth to room aboard his ship, but while snooping, she finds intel about her brother, and flees to rescue him. Aegir realizes what happened and immediately sets off to find her, because if she’d read the letter in its entirety, she’d have seen her captors want her back.
Thoughts:
A humorous and dashing adventure in which a playboy orca shifter realizes that he’s besotted by his prey, and finding himself obsessed, surrenders to her siren song.
The best way I can explain the Shades of Sanctuary series is that each book is so charmingly clever that I never want them to end. The Rake is absolutely no exception to Kass O’Shire’s magic, and I must even admit that this one might be my favorite so far.
For those that don’t know, my favorite part of this series are the footnotes, written by the FMC from book one, as they add so much humor and lore to each story. On e-book, they act like little interactive pop-ups and I personably have SO much fun with them.
As for Elspeth and Aegir, what can I possibly say to express my adoration for them? Elspeth is so brave and resilient. She struggles with giving up control and is haunted by her recent traumas, but is still willing to do anything for her brother. Aegir, the dearest reformed rake I’ve ever read, is everything. He uses his exceptional skill at shape shifting to protect his true self with literal and metaphorical masks, but secretly hopes that one day someone will love him underneath his magic. Together, they will have to navigate an accidental bonding, something that requires them to go against every protective instinct they both have.
The romance is quite adorable, and I find myself totally infatuated with Aegir, who is in fact a pathetic sod for Elspeth. Their shared patience and acceptance was so intimately romantic.
I absolutely recommend this gaslamp monster romance for readers that love humor, heart, and magical peens.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
Every book in the Shades of Sanctuary series may be read as stand-alones, but I recommend every single one!
Tropes & themes: FM, selkie FMC & orca shifter MMC, accidental mating, selkie lore, reformed rake, obsessed MMC, slow burn, reluctant allies to lovers, only one bed, revenge, bondage, cum pants cunnilingus, magical peen, & more
Spoiler-free Summary:
After a harrowing escape, Elspeth is wandering the seas in her seal form when a rather insistent orca tries to eat her. Upon walking, she realizes that the orca in question is a highly talented, very rakish, shape-shifting man named Aegir. Acting the gentleman, Aegir allows Elspeth to room aboard his ship, but while snooping, she finds intel about her brother, and flees to rescue him. Aegir realizes what happened and immediately sets off to find her, because if she’d read the letter in its entirety, she’d have seen her captors want her back.
Thoughts:
A humorous and dashing adventure in which a playboy orca shifter realizes that he’s besotted by his prey, and finding himself obsessed, surrenders to her siren song.
The best way I can explain the Shades of Sanctuary series is that each book is so charmingly clever that I never want them to end. The Rake is absolutely no exception to Kass O’Shire’s magic, and I must even admit that this one might be my favorite so far.
For those that don’t know, my favorite part of this series are the footnotes, written by the FMC from book one, as they add so much humor and lore to each story. On e-book, they act like little interactive pop-ups and I personably have SO much fun with them.
As for Elspeth and Aegir, what can I possibly say to express my adoration for them? Elspeth is so brave and resilient. She struggles with giving up control and is haunted by her recent traumas, but is still willing to do anything for her brother. Aegir, the dearest reformed rake I’ve ever read, is everything. He uses his exceptional skill at shape shifting to protect his true self with literal and metaphorical masks, but secretly hopes that one day someone will love him underneath his magic. Together, they will have to navigate an accidental bonding, something that requires them to go against every protective instinct they both have.
The romance is quite adorable, and I find myself totally infatuated with Aegir, who is in fact a pathetic sod for Elspeth. Their shared patience and acceptance was so intimately romantic.
I absolutely recommend this gaslamp monster romance for readers that love humor, heart, and magical peens.
February 5, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I definitely want to read more from this author now. This was such a cozy fantasy/monster romance. Please keep in mind the trigger warnings in the beginning, the author makes multiple attempts in the beginning contents to make sure your mental health comes first and you are aware of what things are written about. Elspeth (selkie) and Aegir (orca shifter/plus more) are the epitome of slow burn, and what a supportive healing partner looks like. I cannot explain how amazing Aegir was for Elspeth, mentally and emotionally. This book contained trauma, heartache, drama, wonder, adventure, and love. It was a beautiful standalone and I was blessed to get this ARC. At first, I did question why I applied to receive the ARC, I didn’t know if it really was something I’d be interested in. But omg, it most definitely was and I’ll gladly read more from Kass O’Shire!
Thank you to the author & The NerdFam for this eARC, it was amazing!
Thank you to the author & The NerdFam for this eARC, it was amazing!
January 5, 2026
First off.
This dedication made me cry. Like, had to reach out to my emotional support sister in law and tell her about it.
It’s beautiful. It’s heartfelt. It’s healing. And so is this story. So, so healing.
Elspeth has had a secluded life, living on her island with her fellow Selkies. But when the Empire comes, and takes both her and her brother, her world is shattered. Enter Aegir, and the revenge/rescue plot begins
This. Man. Orca shifter. Playboy. Captain of a ship. Goofy as all hell. And so protective. SHE SAID NO PICKLES! He is also the most patient, he is her safe space, her healing space, and just everything. He will go to the ends of the world to make her happy.
The cliff notes are adorable, and definitely worth the read. I adored this story. And I’m going to say it again.
ITS SO HEALING.
This dedication made me cry. Like, had to reach out to my emotional support sister in law and tell her about it.
It’s beautiful. It’s heartfelt. It’s healing. And so is this story. So, so healing.
Elspeth has had a secluded life, living on her island with her fellow Selkies. But when the Empire comes, and takes both her and her brother, her world is shattered. Enter Aegir, and the revenge/rescue plot begins
This. Man. Orca shifter. Playboy. Captain of a ship. Goofy as all hell. And so protective. SHE SAID NO PICKLES! He is also the most patient, he is her safe space, her healing space, and just everything. He will go to the ends of the world to make her happy.
The cliff notes are adorable, and definitely worth the read. I adored this story. And I’m going to say it again.
ITS SO HEALING.
February 13, 2025
For those of us who fell in love with Aegir in The Care and Keeping of Orcs, this one's for us. He's just as charming and rogueish as we fell in love with before, and now as an official member of the "Pathetic Sods Club."
Elspeth's story is a heavier one than we've seen in the Shades of Sanctuary series thus far. Her journey in reclaiming her autonomy and reforging herself after the trauma she endured at the hands of the Empire is inspiring, as much as I hate that she had to endure it in the first place. But with Aegir's help and her goal of rescuing her brother from the same imprisonment, Elspeth is a woman on a mission and she'll be damned if anyone will stand in her way.
Elspeth's story is a heavier one than we've seen in the Shades of Sanctuary series thus far. Her journey in reclaiming her autonomy and reforging herself after the trauma she endured at the hands of the Empire is inspiring, as much as I hate that she had to endure it in the first place. But with Aegir's help and her goal of rescuing her brother from the same imprisonment, Elspeth is a woman on a mission and she'll be damned if anyone will stand in her way.
February 14, 2025
For my first Monster Romance, this set the bar high. This was a very cute read with surprisingly high stakes.
I enjoy character driven stories and this delivered on that. Both characters had things they needed to work through that were very believable. I also love how patient our MMC was. His understanding when it came to the FMC’s trauma? Beautifully done.
I just hoped for a little more World Building. That’s all it was missing for me. Looking forward to reading the next book in this world!
Thank you to the author and TheNerdFam for the eARC!
I enjoy character driven stories and this delivered on that. Both characters had things they needed to work through that were very believable. I also love how patient our MMC was. His understanding when it came to the FMC’s trauma? Beautifully done.
I just hoped for a little more World Building. That’s all it was missing for me. Looking forward to reading the next book in this world!
Thank you to the author and TheNerdFam for the eARC!
February 9, 2025
Thank you so much for the EARC!
I absolutely loved this read! It was cute, cozy and somehow it has medium amount of stake to it where I was wondering what was going to happen next. This is my first kind of romance like this and I was super surprised that I liked it so much.
I also super appreciated the dedication and cliff notes on the side - I found it helpful and cute!! Absolutely recommend this read to everyone!!!
Also the spice? Made me blush like crazy!!!
I absolutely loved this read! It was cute, cozy and somehow it has medium amount of stake to it where I was wondering what was going to happen next. This is my first kind of romance like this and I was super surprised that I liked it so much.
I also super appreciated the dedication and cliff notes on the side - I found it helpful and cute!! Absolutely recommend this read to everyone!!!
Also the spice? Made me blush like crazy!!!
February 14, 2025
I'm absolutely in love with these two characters. Honestly I think it's because I connect with Elsepeth and I can understand her aversion to touch, which makes smut difficult to write. However Kass did it wonderfully. Our MMC is so much of a cinnamon bun that I can't help but fall in love with him. He understands Elsepeth so well and just wants to make her happy. I'm currently 50% of the way through because I'm a slow reader but loving it all the same.
Thank you Kass for the free copy for my honest review.
Thank you Kass for the free copy for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2025
This book healed a part of me I didn't know needed healing!!
It hit me in all the feels. A super cute, fun read! It had touching and light elements but also had darker elements that were tastefully explored in an uplifting way.
This was my first Orca Shifter novel, and now I have more questions... I may need to do some research, you know, for science.
I would also like to venture into Aegir's market (iykyk).
It hit me in all the feels. A super cute, fun read! It had touching and light elements but also had darker elements that were tastefully explored in an uplifting way.
This was my first Orca Shifter novel, and now I have more questions... I may need to do some research, you know, for science.
I would also like to venture into Aegir's market (iykyk).
February 6, 2025
I just adore everything Kass O’Shire writes! This book was certainly a different vibe from Kass’s other stories, but it was no less fantastic! I truly loved following along to Aegir and Elspeth’s story. Their initial meet and all of the magic that follows. Their story wasn’t all butterflies and rainbows, but it was theirs and perfectly them. The affection and desire they have for each other, completely and fully themselves, was so beautiful. The patience and understanding they had for one another as they learned, grew, and bonded was lovely to watch unfold. I thoroughly enjoyed this story from the talented Kass O’Shire!
February 11, 2025
Words cannot describe how much this book meant to me. It was beautiful written and a great representation of mental health struggles after trauma. I loved the redemption of the FMC and how the MMC was just perfect with being a strong support. I loved how the story continues with enter connecting stories from prior books. Truly a great read!
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