Monstrosity

Raiders of Valhalla MC: New Blood #5

by Elizabeth Knox

Years ago, I made a promise over my wife's grave.

Rio

I promised I'd kill every last Culebra bastard who took her from me. I'd make them pay for murdering my pregnant wife and leaving me to raise our daughters alone.

I've kept that promise. One bullet at a time.

But there's one thing I didn't plan on—Dasha becoming everything I never knew I needed.

She's been there through the nightmares, the rage, the guilt. Watching my girls like they're her own. Looking at me like I'm still worth saving.

I've fought like hell to keep her at arm's length. Good girls don't fall for killers. And I'm the worst kind of killer—the kind who enjoys the work.

But when Bembe threatens her to get to me, everything goes up in flames.

She thinks I'm her friend. Her protector. She has no idea she's been mine since the day she first smiled at my daughters.

Now the cartel's about to learn what happens when you threaten a dead man's only reason for living.

***Monstrosity is the fifth book in the Raiders of Valhalla MC: New Blood by USA Today Bestselling Author, Elizabeth Knox. It's a dark motorcycle club, friends-to-lovers romance. Please note, this is intended for mature audiences only

Tropes Included:
MC Romance

Friends-to-Lovers

Widower

Protector

Alpha Male

Genres: Dark, Contemporary, Second Chance, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Family, Friends To Lovers

199 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 30, 2025

About the author

Elizabeth Knox is a USA Today Bestselling romance author who specializes in romantic suspense, and dark romance. She’s well-known for her intense page-turning motorcycle clubs, and sinister dark mafia books. 

While Elizabeth loves to write, she is an avid reader as well, who reads a mixture of genres. She lives on a farm with her husband in the northeastern United States with her rescue animals. When she isn’t working, you can find her horseback riding, riding ATVs, or out on the farm with her animals.

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Reviews

[Mandyloves2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man, I have been waiting for Rio’s story, and it did not disappoint! My heart absolutely bleeds for everything he’s been through—Elizabeth Knox pulled no punches with this one. Dasha was perfect for Rio. She’s been quietly waiting for him to see her as more than a friend, and the way she loves him and his girls so fiercely made me adore her even more. She’s such a strong yet sweet soul, exactly what Rio needed.

This story was heartbreaking, emotional, and scorching hot, with that perfect mix of darkness and steam that this author always delivers. Monstrosity is raw, powerful, and unforgettable—without a doubt, a five-star read!

[Kazz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 5 in the series and a really great addition it is! This brings us the story of Rio, a prospect at the Raiders of Valhalla MC, single dad of two gorgeous young girls and very focussed on tracking down the man responsible for causing the death of his pregnant wife Flora , mother to his girls, and the baby who was also killed when the Cartel shot and killed Flora. Dasha, is divorced, works in the local cafe/bakery and she helps Rio out bringing up the girls, even staying over in the guest room when he has club business that keeps him away late, Dasha has real feelings for Rio and has wished for a long time that he would see her as someone more than a babysitter! Little did she know that Rio feels the same about her, but he doesn’t feel he deserves another chance at happiness, until the cartel are back threatening his family, the ones he loves and he is not going to lose anyone again! There are twists, turns, action, danger, family fun, steamy scenes and love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Doris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chances

Rio lost his first wife when she was gunned down and it broke him even if he had to stay strong for his two girls. Dasha had been helping with the girls for quite some time but she was more than ready to take things further with the man she had fallen in love with. Rio didn’t want to bring Dasha into his very dangerous life but there was no denying (finally) that he wanted and needed Dasha in his little family’s life.

Rio turned into the monster he needed to be in order to seek revenge and keep his family and club safe. The action, the suspense, the steam, and the family bonding made this book a huge page turner for me. The Raiders of Valhalla MC series has been outstanding and this book just added to it.

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rio is a prospect with the MC and is a dad to two girls. He’s out for blood, looking for the man who killed his pregnant wife. Enter Dasha. She worked at a local bakery and she takes Rio’s girls for him when he has club business. Shes got feelings for Rio but he seems to not see her as anything more than a babysitter to his girls. She really wishes he’d see her as more. However, he does, he’s just let those feelings be something he’s ready to share because he doesn’t want the same fate to become of her.
Once these two let their feelings be known, omg, it’s electric. They are so good together. And it’s amazing how much she loves his girls too. An excellent story and addition to these amazing books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

MONSTROSITY is the fifth instalment in Elizabeth Knox’s contemporary, adult RAIDERS OF VALHALLA MC: NEW BLOOD dark, MC romance series, set in the RAIDERS OF VALHALLA world co-authored by Elizabeth Knox and EC Land, with characters crossing over from the author’s The Mackenzies Series. This is thirty-two year old, prospect and single father Riodhr ‘Rio’ Rojas, and barista / thirty-nine year old, nanny Dasha’s story line. MONSTROSITY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Rio and Dasha) MONSTROSITY focuses on Rio’s need for revenge. Approximately five years earlier Culebra Cartel destroyed Rio’s left leaving him a single father of two young girls. Desperate, Rio accepts help from the Raiders’ ol’ ladies, and barista Dasha but in the interim continued to seek revenge for the woman he love. Fast forward to present day Rio discovers his family has once again been targeted, and he is determined to protect the woman that calls to his heart. Everyone knows Dasha fell in love with Rio the first time they met but Rio is oblivious in the wake of losing the woman he loved but when Dasha and his daughter’s are targeted, Rio goes on the offensive, calling in help from the Raiders and the Irish mob.

The world building follows the search for the people responsible for destroying Rio’s life, and Dasha’s attraction to a man who refuses to place another woman in the direct line of fire but regardless of his determination and need to protect, the threats are real, and the Raiders call the families home for protection.

The relationship between Rio and Dasha is a friends to lovers in which Rio continues to struggle with the murder of his first wife, and the lack of closure with his need for revenge. Dasha knows Rio is the man that calls to her heart but Rio doesn’t realize his future is in the hands of our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is another large ensemble cast of determined and dynamic secondary and supporting characters including several members of the Raiders of Valhalla MC, as well as Cartel head Bembe Reyes, head of the Irish mob Liam Mackenzie, and his ‘nephew’ Doran Volkov; and Rio’s daughters Cali and Florencia. The requisite evil has many faces.

MONSTROSITY is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, obsession and preoccupation, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is dramatic and edgy; the romance is limited; the characters are desperate and aggressive.


copy supplied for review

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

He knows how to avenge the dead. She gives him a reason to live again.

Dasha has spent years beside Rio, helping care for his daughters and becoming part of the family neither of them quite dares to name. After rebuilding her life following a divorce, she's found comfort in their familiar routines. But friendship has grown into a love she's tired of keeping quiet.

Rio is a widowed Raider whose grief has sharpened into a brutal hunger for revenge. He's gentle with his girls and merciless toward the men who threaten them, and he knows exactly what that contrast says about him. He wants Dasha close, yet he's terrified that loving her openly will put another woman he treasures in danger.

Their attraction has simmered through years of coffee runs, shared dinners, and words left unsaid. When they finally stop holding back, passion comes naturally, but so does the tenderness beneath it. Dasha doesn't need Rio to pretend he's innocent. She needs him to trust her enough to let her decide what loving him means.

Then the Culebra cartel turns its attention to Dasha, and Rio's carefully contained fury threatens to take over. His instinct is to shield her from every ugly truth, but she won't accept being kept in the dark. As danger closes in, they discover that protection means little without honesty, especially when his fear of loss is stronger than his faith in a future.

Dasha grows bolder about claiming the love she's wanted for so long, while Rio begins to believe happiness doesn't betray the wife he lost. Their physical connection deepens a bond built long before their first kiss, giving both of them something precious to fight for without losing themselves to fear.

A dark, steamy, friends-to-lovers, widower MC romance where fierce devotion meets grief, revenge, and second chances. It's about a woman who sees the tenderness and the brutality, a man learning to live beyond his loss, and choosing love without pretending the darkness isn't there.

The Elevator Pitch: A widowed biker has spent years feeding his grief with vengeance, never expecting the woman who helps care for his daughters to become the one person capable of reaching the man beneath the monster. When his enemies discover what she means to him, their long-buried attraction ignites into a passionate love that forces him to confront the darkness he embraces and the happiness he fears losing. Between bloodshed, fierce devotion, and the family they've quietly built together, can a man who knows how to destroy finally believe he deserves something worth keeping?

Heat Level: 🔥 Steamy

[Mafia Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rio and Dasha. If you have read the series you have been waiting for this one, and it does not disappoint. He is a member of the local MC, 5 years ago his wife was brutally gunned down while pregnant with his youngest daughter. He has been biding his time for revenge. She stepped in to help him with the girls, and has kept showing up ever since. She has been the one he can count on, the one who dries his girls tears and braids their hair, but until now they have been quietly pining not wanting to jeopardize the girls security. But when someone threatens her, he realizes that it is past time to claim what is his. They are everything you want them to be. He is the brutal closer for the MC with blood on his hands. He is also the loving dad who will do anything for his girls. And now he shows her that he is ready to be her man, both in the bedroom and out of it. She works at the coffee shop while the girls are in school and takes care of them when she is not. She has quietly waited not wanting to take anything from their grief, but she loves that man fiercely and his girls just as fiercely. It is both brutal and sweetly tender. Hot and steamy, will melt your panties right off and give you all the butterflies. This is book 5 of the series, while every story is mostly a stand alone, the series is about the MC family and the characters continue to show up for each other. It makes for such a better reading experience if you read them in order. You will also get more of the back story that led to this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Krissy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. As it's a dark MC romance, there is violence and mention of death, so please read with caution. Rio lost his pregnant wife when she was shot by the cartel, leaving him a single dad with two young girls. Since then, with the help of the MC, he's been hunting the ones responsible.

Dasha has been helping him with caring for the girls and is the unexpected second chance he doesn't think he deserves, especially with the danger surrounding him and the MC. Because she is not raised in the MC life, he doesn't want to pull her into such a dangerous life when she has the option for a normal life. But she's in love with Rio and loves his daughters like her own and is hoping he sees her as more than the nanny. She doesn't know he has developed feelings for her but doesn't act on them as he is afraid of losing her.

When the cartel threatens her directly, Rio realises he can't lose her and goes all out to protect her and the girls. I loved how their relationship progresses amidst the danger and chaos, once they admit their feelings. The formed family unit (Rio, Dasha, Florencia and Cali) was beautiful to read and the two girls are just amazing- sassy, adorable, lovable, intelligent. The wedding was heartwarming and emotional and their HEA was extra touching as it's more than just two people finding each other, it's a new beginning for this family.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one hit different, y’all.
Monstrosity isn’t just another MC romance—it’s a raw, soul-deep, rage-and-redemption kind of story that grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. Rio? He’s not just an alpha—he’s a broken one. The kind that bleeds fury and loyalty in equal measure. The kind that has nothing left to lose… until her.
Dasha isn’t just a “good girl” in the background. She’s the damn glue holding Rio’s fractured life together—quiet strength, constant presence, full of love for his girls and grace for a man who thinks he’s beyond saving. And I felt that slow build between them in my bones. That ache. That longing. That war between guilt and desire? Yeah. It gutted me.
When danger hits close and all that restraint explodes? I was not ready. This isn’t just about vengeance anymore—it’s about claiming what’s his, and Dasha has been his since page one, even if he was too damn stubborn to admit it.
What I love about Elizabeth Knox is that she doesn’t shy away from the darkness. Rio’s grief, his violence, the way he doubts he’s worthy of love—it’s all there, laid bare. And it just made his devotion to Dasha burn even brighter. He’s not a good man. He’s a monstrosity, sure. But for her? He’d raze the world and smile while doing it.
If you’re into MC romance with grit, grief, found family, slow-burns that hit like wildfire, and a love story that rises from the ashes—this one’s it. I cried. I cheered. I swooned. And I’m not over it.
The Raiders of Valhalla have my heart—but Rio just straight-up owns my soul.

[Dimitra A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Rio and Dasha!

What a story! I was anxiously waiting for Rio and Dasha’s story since Rios late wife was shot down and he was left bringing up his two daughters alone, while we knew that Dasha stepped in to help him. It’s a reverse age gap story (he is 32, she is 39) and I loved every line. I loved how protective Rio is of his family and his loved ones. Rio is in love with Dasha for a while now, but is afraid to act on it because of the fear that his enemies will put a target on her back, just like with Flora. Dasha is not raised in the MC life, but fell in love with Rio and loves his daughters like her own. When the enemy threatens her directly, Rio snaps. He becomes the much needed monster he has to be in order to protect who matters to him the most. I loved Rio and Dasha’s honesty and how their love blooms when they finally admit it. Dasha may not have grown up in the MC life, but she gets it. All of it. She is perfect for Rio and I cheered for both of them; after the tragedies in their lives, they deserved every ounce of happiness. I love the family dynamic that forms among Rio, Dasha and his girl (Florencia and Cali are as adorable as one can get). Action, danger, cruelty, love, affection and family bonds weave and intricate pattern in every page. I couldn’t put the book down. 5 stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rio has been prospecting for the Raiders of Valhalla for about five years now. He started out being caught by the Raiders dealing drugs for the patriot. Rio made a deal with the Raiders to get information about the patriot and his plans, in exchange he would prospect for the Raiders and they would keep him and his family safe. At a birthday party the cartel shot Flora, Rio’s pregnant wife. Flora died but gave birth to Cali. Rio was very broken up about what happened to Flora and he started to go in to a depression. Rio has been killing the people involved in Flora’s murder. Dasha is a friend of Meghan who works in the coffee shop. Dasha has been helping with Rio’s girls, Florencia and Cali since Flora’s death. After five years of helping Rio Dasha has fallen in love with him. The leader of the cartel Bembe has a hit out on Dasha and Meghan specifically and other women associated with the Raiders. Rio has developed feelings for Dasha but he is afraid of losing her. Dasha gets choked by a man who works with Bembe. The Raiders have a chance to take out Bembe and the cartel. Dasha has been basically living with Rio, Florencia and Cali in order to keep everyone safe. Will Rio finally realize that he wants Dasha to be his wife? Will the Raiders finally get Bembe? Will Rio, Dasha, Florencia and Cali find a happy ever after?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout.

Rio and Dasha’s story is Magnificent!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review

We are still on the journey within the Raiders of Valhalla. There are monsters everywhere one looks especially being involved in the life of a MC.

Violence / anger & passion. There are monsters who might/might not lose control. It is a fine line they all live.

Rio, lost his wife to the Culebra Cartel. A father of 2 trying to survive his loss.
He’s become the monster
He is a dedicated Father
He’s the monster that makes life safe. This is what he has become.
To protect the Family.

Complete, coming together.

There is no way one can ignore how far the Raiders have come. The series is always giving.
Rio has come full circle. Yes, here love has had hurdles to overcome, but like always Love is the silver lining at the end. It is whats within the time frame that alters everything.

Did Rio get closure for the loss of his first wife - Flora?
Was the outcome salvation?
How will Dasha change his life?

Family and bonds is what makes this MC. Tippy toeing for a while but resolutions at the end.

Another chapter closed for the time being (Rio & mummy Dasha ) but always present within the club. All characters are present within the reads, so we are always kept in the know.

Well done Elizabeth still keeping us in suspension of the usual -
What - if’s
- who
- when
- suspension etc.

Cannot wait for next instalment 🔥

[Nolah Jayde James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flora was taken from me but our little girl in her belly lived.
I, Rio, was encased in emptiness and grief.
I didnt know how i was supposed to be a father to my daughters and go on living without their mother.
I failed them when i could protect their mother from danger.
But Dasha stepped in and took care of the girls, taking a big load off my back.
She nurtured my infant daughter and toddler.
She also made sure that i was taken care of as well.
She would consistently check on me.
She made sure that I ate took care of the house.
Dasha was a great friend.
I wish that Rio knew how much i cared for him.
Throughout these past years, my feelings for Rio has grown stronger.
But I wasn’t sure that i wanted to act on them ruining our friendship, partnership.
Then one night it all changed.
We crossed the line and I became important to him as much as his girls are to him.
But he was still holding himself back.
He was scared of getting to close to me because of Flora.
He didn’t want to fail me too.
But I had to let him know that together we could be a force to be reckoned with.
When a threat was made to Meghan and I at our coffee shop, Rio had us the girls and I move into the clubhouse.
He wanted to keep us safe.
Only when Bembe put his hands on me threatening my life did Rio become the man i know that exists inside.
I love him inspite of the dark spaces in his soul.
I knew that he would protect us no matter what.
When he proposed to me after it was all said and done, I could not say yes.
His girls are were very excited to have me as their Dasha-mom.
Rio told me that he was dark and i led him to the light.
He vowed to keep to the light as long as I was by his side.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimmijane · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Monstrosity" is a thrilling and heartwarming read that seamlessly blends humor, romance, and suspense. The story revolves around Rio, a rugged biker, father and widower with a heart of gold, and Dasha, a companionate and loving woman who finds herself in a perilous situation. Their chemistry is electric, making every interaction between them a delightful experience.

The narrative is fast-paced, making it easy to get lost in the pages. The author does a fantastic job of balancing the sexy and cute moments with the underlying tension of the plot. As a Cuban Cartel sets its sights on Dasha and her little girls, Rio's transformation from a carefree biker to a fierce protector is both compelling and inspiring. The stakes are high, and the suspense keeps you turning pages late into the night.

The humor sprinkled throughout adds a lightness to the story, making it not just a tale of danger, but also one of love and laughter. The side characters are well-developed, bringing depth and additional layers to the plot.

Overall, is a captivating read that delivers on all fronts. It’s a perfect blend of action, romance, and resilience, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next adventure from this dynamic duo. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun, sexy, and suspenseful escape!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lenna Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something new we have a younger guy and a slightly older woman age gap with Rio and Dasha. I dont usually read stories that have a widow (widower) going into a new relationship since the ghost of the past spouse is always involved and the other person doesn't take kindly that they have to share life with their partners dead spouse hanging around, but Dasha was very loving to the girls and Rio and even knows Flora will always be in their lives, she's accepts that and even involves Flora in a very touching event at what happened in the end.

Riodhr 'Rio' Rojas, 32, widower, his first wife Flora we saw the tragedy that happened to her, and for 5 years after her murder, Rio has been hunting down her killers and he's narrowing it down to a couple of guys that he needs to plan their downfall, plus some others that are threatening the women and kids of the club.

Dasha, 39, divorced, coffeeshop barista, babysitter of 2 very lively skunking girls and taking care of their father whom she has secretly been in love with but never pushed him.


We also get to see a bit of Saga, Rati's daughter and a fellow patcher Emil, Fenrir's son, at the end of this story since theirs is the next book in line....

[E Loprete · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monstrosity ( Raiders of Valhalla: New Blood #5) by Elizabeth Knox is a fast paced MC Romance story full of MC drama, danger, angst and family/ club relationships that will hold your interest from beginning to end. This is Rio's and Dasha's second chance at love journey. Will Rio ever get over the death of his wife who was killed by the Culebra Cartel? Rio has vowed to make the men pay for his wife's death as he is left raising his daughters. Dasha is a divorced woman who works at the club's cafe/bakery who has close ties to the club, ends up being Rio's nanny. The bond between these two grow the more time they spend together as Dasha helps Rio raise his daughters. Soon passion erupts between them as they enter a passionate relationship that is hard, fast and intense. Will Rio and Dasha have a chance at a new beginning? Can Rio hide the monster within him from Dasha while he seeks revenge? Now in order to get Rio, Dasha is soon targeted by Bembe, Rio will unleash the monster within as he is determined to end this threat, get his revenge while protecting the woman he has come to love? Monstrosity is a must read, the storyline is dramatic and intense with characters who are larger than life and assertive. Can't wait for the next book in this series.

[Ingrid · Rating 5 out of 5]

This dark biker romance blends high stakes with a deeply grounded, emotional love story. With threats looming, mafia connections in the background, and constant tension, the plot keeps you engaged—but what really stands out is the romance itself.
The couple has been circling each other for two years before finally giving in to what’s clearly been there all along. Both are in their 30s, emotionally mature, settled in their lives, and very much on equal footing. Even though he’s younger than her, their maturity and life experience are perfectly matched, which makes their relationship feel realistic, refreshing, and genuinely satisfying to read.
What I especially loved is how strong the sense of family is. His kids are fully on board, and through all the danger and outside threats, they stick together, grounding and supporting one another. The romance never feels overshadowed by the darkness—it’s strengthened by it.
This book works well as a standalone since each novel focuses on one couple, but it also fits beautifully into the larger, interconnected series arc. A wonderful addition to the series and a deeply rewarding read for fans of darker, emotionally rich biker romances.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rio and Dasha

Tropes:
* Dark romance
* MC romance
* Widower
* Single father
* Friends to lovers
* Found family
* Protector MMC

Five years after the loss of his first wife (and since he’s found a place in Raiders of Valhalla MC), Rio is obsessed with his friend Dasha.
She’s under threat, hopelessly in love with him, and now… she’s in his targets while he works to protect her.

Rio is a rough man - that blowtorch scene! - yet like all the othe men in their MC, an absolute softie for the woman he loves.

I love the elements of humour…

"I can handle my woman," I protest.
"Sure you can, big guy." She pats my cheek condescendingly. "That's why it only took you years to make a move on her."

I really enjoyed this… each story tends to flow a little into the next, and this was a great continuation. I loved the bond between Dasha, Florencia and Cali… ‘Dasha-Mommy’ is so cute!!
The way that Rio’s late wife Flora was handled was good too. She wasn’t forgotten, and he wasn’t an a-z about it. It was sweet.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rio's life imploded 5 years ago when he lost his wife. Lost in grief, Dasha from the coffee shop stepped up and helped him care for his two girls. Over time, Rio manages to claw his way out of his grief with the help of his brothers from the club. Dasha has been a godsend to him, always being there for him and the girls. His feelings towards her change slowly from friendship to attraction, but he fights it.

Dasha immediately fell for the girls. Losing their mother the way they did, and their father lost in grief, she will be there to love them, making sure there is someone to hold and care for them until Rio can. She soon becomes a primary caregiver to them, and she also looks out for Rio. She, like Rio, soon finds her feelings changing. But even though both think they are good at hiding their emotions, others in the club see them dancing around their feelings.

When a threat is made to the club, feelings come to the fore; this time, Rio will stop at nothing to protect those that he loves.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Talyn Gore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Monstrosity by Elizabeth Knox is a dark, gritty, and adrenaline-charged ride that blends romance, danger, and raw emotion into one explosive story. Knox doesn’t shy away from the harsher realities of her characters’ world, delivering a plot that’s equal parts brutal and captivating.

The main characters are complex and well-developed, with layers that peel back as the story unfolds. Their chemistry is intense—sometimes sweet, often scorching—and their personal struggles feel raw and authentic. Knox masterfully balances the romance with high-stakes tension, ensuring the pacing never lags.

The world-building is vivid, painting a setting that’s unapologetically dangerous yet impossible to turn away from. Every twist keeps you on edge, and the emotional punches land hard. It’s a book that will have you rooting for the characters even when they’re making questionable choices.
If you enjoy gritty MC romance with morally grey heroes, fierce heroines, and an unflinching look at loyalty and survival, Monstrosity will hook you from page one and refuse to let go.

[Avid MC Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the Raiders of Valhalla, New Blood series and certainly delivers. This is the second chance at love for both Rio and Dasha as both have been married before, his ended with his wife's murder and hers ended in divorce.

Rio has been raising his two girls for the past five years with help from Dasha. Rio is focused on finding and ending everyone that had anything to do with his wife's murder. Dasha works at the coffee shop, Beans and Babes with Meghan, Tor's old lady. Rio wants Dasha but keeps his distance because of his dangerous lifestyle but Dasha keeps pushing at his boundaries. When the club finds out that the Culebra is targeting the women in the club, especially Dasha and Meghan, Rio's control breaks and he finally takes what he wants, Dasha.

There is a lot of action, suspense, danger, romance, steamy love scenes, family, and men who will do whatever is necessary to protect their own.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carmela Dimattia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous series and I was so happy that Rio finally got revenge for his wife’s death. I have been waiting for this book and I was not disappointed in the least. Years after his wife’s death Rio finally got his HEA but also he served justice on the people responsible for her death. It has not been an easy ride for Rio and along the way he has found solace in the company of Dasha and slowly these two have found that they both have feelings and although neither wants to create havoc in their lives it seems that when there is danger in their midst Rio realises just how much Dasha means to him and he shows the lengths he will go in order to keep her safe and never lose another loved one again. Lots of action and danger but it is the story about Rio and Dasha that will capture your heart and although Rio considers himself to be a monster we get to see a very different side to him especially with his two girls and Dasha. Amazing read!

I received an arc copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Bernie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two people who are good together side by side, but one silently definitely wants more and one is silently wishing for it, but won't act on it.
Rio is widowed with two young daughters. His wife, Flora was killed some years ago and seen as an attack against the club. Dasha has helped him fir years in caring for the girls. It's a harmonious process but something is missing. Threats against her come to light and threats against the club prove how things can escalate..the cartel is targeting the women who mean something to the men. Whilst threats to the club business are always in the background, they are now prominent and at the forefront of it. There is reference to someone passing on information from the inside, but nothing is clear about it. Club business may have been comprised for some time. Another mess to sort through and more to be dealt with. Drama and danger are part of MC life amidst the daily family affair and Dasha and Rio seem happy to take it all in hand.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent novella that is a page turner, is easy to read and has amazing characters that brings the novella to life with drama, suspense, thrills, action, steamy romance as well as a happily ever after that ties it all together.
A novella about tragedy, love, danger and what a man will do to keep what he considers his family safe. When the woman he loves is endangered by an enemy who took his wife as well as his daughter’s mother he goes into action trying to keep his new family safe with the help of his biker family.
His biker family as well as their ally tend to the enemy together. After the enemy is tended to he asked the woman he loves to marry him and she agreed. The two marry with his daughters doing a memorial to their mother during the ceremony. All are in attendance, the biker family, friends as well as the ally that helped them with the enemy.
The couple along with the daughters are now a family in every way, they are all happy and the couple is happy as well as in love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mrs Reads Between The Lines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rio and Dasha’s story is beautifully tragic. I looked forward to their story since they were introduced in ‘Manic’!

Rio finds his way into the ROV MC by striking a deal with the club: he and his family get their protection and in return he gives them information on the Patriot. That works out well until the Patriot killed his pregnant wife, leaving him with two very small babies to raise.

Dasha takes it upon herself to befriend Rio and begins watching his kids. And, of course, she develops feelings for him. And unbeknownst to her, Rio has developed feelings for her too. Except he doesn’t think he deserves another chance at happiness. He still blames himself for the death of his wife, Flora.

Rio’s growth is painful; anger and revenge keeps him from truly moving on. But, with the help (and love) of a good woman, and two adorable kids, he eventually gets there. Especially when the cartel comes looking for round two.

*Please read trigger warnings.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[K K Jones Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monstrosity is book five in Elizabeth Knox's Raiders of Valhalla MC: New Blood, and is full of action, betrayal, drama, over protectiveness, and romance.

Elizabeth Knox is known for bringing her readers either great humor or even greater sorrow, and Monstrosity is no different. This book will grab the readers heartstrings right from the start and only lets go once the reader turns the last page.

This story is how two people solace together after a tragedy rips their apart. Rio loses his wife leaving him to raise both a two year old and newborn. Dasha immediately steps up to help care for the children desperately in need of mother's love while their father tries to heal not just himself but his scared and confused children, neither of whom can remember what their mother looked like.

After a few years of trying to deny his feelings and protect Dasha, Rio realizes the only way to protect those he loves is to step up and claim everyone officially as family much to his children's joy and Dasha's happiness.

[Illusory World Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monstrosity is an excellent book; the story pulls you in more and more as you read.
It follows Rio and Dasha, who are best friends and also have feelings for each other, though he keeps his distance. She is a huge source of support for him and his daughters. The heroine is a very mature, grounded, and loving woman, and she has such an intense way of facing everything happening around her. I absolutely loved how her personality was written.
Rio is a strong man with a dark and dangerous energy that takes over him, but beneath all that toughness there’s also so much pain and emotional conflict. There are moments when he feels lost, exhausted, or even desperate, and that’s what made me connect so deeply with both him and Dasha.
This book never lets you feel completely at ease while reading because something is always happening, and that keeps you fully hooked the entire time.
I finished this book wanting to jump straight into the next one so I could learn more about the other characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Phyllis Wolford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad that Rio finally got his story, he deserves it. When the club women are again targeted by the Cartel, they go into protection mode. Rio has been trying to got fight his feelings for Dasha, but this put them front and center, and he finally admits that she is everything to him. Dasha has loved Rio and his little girls since forever, and will do anything g for them. When she finds out her and the other ladies of the club are in danger again, she lets Rio and the club take care of it. Along the way they face the fact that they love each other and she finally has a family that will do anything for her.
Dasha realizes what Rio needs to do to protect the club and their families and she is ok with it as long as he comes back to her and his girls. This is a whirlwind of sidelong glances and getting deeper into their heads and understanding what it takes to be a member of Raiders and be in their protected circle.

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good! What a wild ride! I have read the other novels in this series and really enjoyed them. This novel did not disappoint. I think this is my favorite of the series so far. From the first chapter this novel grabbed ahold of my heart and held on tight. This novel had me on the edge of my seat reading thru the entire novel. I loved Rio and Dasha's story. My heart hurt for Rio, he has been thru so much when his wife was killed by the enemies of the MC. He is doing his best to raise his other two daughters with the help of Dasha. My heart hurt for Dasha too, she has feeling for Rio but doesn't think he returns them and puts all of her love into helping his kids. Their chemistry is good! I didn't want to put this novel down, I needed to know what was coming next. This novel took me on such a wild ride and it was so good! I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next.

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance is his

Monstrosity is the fifth book in the Raiders of Valhalla MC: New Blood series. This story is going to be an emotional read from the start as it deals with a lot. But the story of Dasha and Rio is well worth the tissues and late nights to see where they end up. Rio has been broken since he lost his wife whens he was killed. He has been raising his two daughters since then, but really other people have been helping also. One of those people has been Dasha. Dasha has really been there for everything, for both the girls and Rio. He may have vengeance tattooed on his heart but Dasha is also there and is becoming more and more important to Rio and the girls. It really becomes apparent when Dasha is put in danger and Rio is ready to burn down the world to make sure she and his girls are safe and protected. Along the way the chemistry is slow burning but when it ignites it is white hot and fiery passion.