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Hallow's Cove
Gaming with the Gargoyle in Hallow's Cove
Nothing says best friends forever like a pregnancy pact...
Being a widow is the best thing that’s ever happened to Gwen. Except to keep her game store, she needs a baby–specifically, an heir. She must be rolling with advantage though, because her gargoyle best friend just happens to be her dead husband’s half brother. Keeping things platonic will be hard, but after her critical fail with her first husband, can she trust her own insight?
Between leading his group through untold perils in the dungeon and helping friends navigate their own issues, Gabe’s usually rolling high on intellect… but his lifelong feelings for Gwen had always left him rolling low. Charisma has never been his highest stat, but does Gabe have the initiative to show Gwen that he's worth risking her heart?
He can certainly try.
Two best friends, the adventure of a lifetime, and one pregnancy pact with a deceptively low difficulty rating. Will they be able to add +1 to their party and their hearts, or have they been rolling at disadvantage from the start?
Gaming with the Gargoyle is a cozy, sweet and steamy monster romance novella that takes place in the small town of Hallow's Cove, a shared world in a multi-author series. It features a nerdy, dad-bod gargoyle MMC, a plus sized-widow FMC, best friends to lovers, and a pregnancy pact.
Being a widow is the best thing that’s ever happened to Gwen. Except to keep her game store, she needs a baby–specifically, an heir. She must be rolling with advantage though, because her gargoyle best friend just happens to be her dead husband’s half brother. Keeping things platonic will be hard, but after her critical fail with her first husband, can she trust her own insight?
Between leading his group through untold perils in the dungeon and helping friends navigate their own issues, Gabe’s usually rolling high on intellect… but his lifelong feelings for Gwen had always left him rolling low. Charisma has never been his highest stat, but does Gabe have the initiative to show Gwen that he's worth risking her heart?
He can certainly try.
Two best friends, the adventure of a lifetime, and one pregnancy pact with a deceptively low difficulty rating. Will they be able to add +1 to their party and their hearts, or have they been rolling at disadvantage from the start?
Gaming with the Gargoyle is a cozy, sweet and steamy monster romance novella that takes place in the small town of Hallow's Cove, a shared world in a multi-author series. It features a nerdy, dad-bod gargoyle MMC, a plus sized-widow FMC, best friends to lovers, and a pregnancy pact.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2025
144 people are currently reading
616 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
May 3, 2025
➸monster romance
➸friends to lovers
➸plus sized nerd/gargoyle geek
➸small town
➸he falls first
➸pregnancy/breeding
It's a cozy, sweet and steamy novella that takes place in Hallow's Cove, a small town full of monsters.
Gwen is trying to save her game store and makes a pregnancy pact with her best friend - who just happened to be a cinnamon roll gargoyle.
Gabe had a crush on her for years but it was bad timing and something stopped him from asking her out. I liked him being a shy nerd and DM daddy with pro dirty talking skills at the same time🔥
Gabe and Gwen are so sweet together, I adore them. They are the perfect couple and I truly enjoyed this friends to lovers story.
Not only is this novella super sweet, it's super spicy too. Lovet the way it was written and I'll definitely read other books of the author.
➸friends to lovers
➸plus sized nerd/gargoyle geek
➸small town
➸he falls first
➸pregnancy/breeding
It's a cozy, sweet and steamy novella that takes place in Hallow's Cove, a small town full of monsters.
Gwen is trying to save her game store and makes a pregnancy pact with her best friend - who just happened to be a cinnamon roll gargoyle.
Gabe had a crush on her for years but it was bad timing and something stopped him from asking her out. I liked him being a shy nerd and DM daddy with pro dirty talking skills at the same time🔥
Gabe and Gwen are so sweet together, I adore them. They are the perfect couple and I truly enjoyed this friends to lovers story.
Not only is this novella super sweet, it's super spicy too. Lovet the way it was written and I'll definitely read other books of the author.
May 16, 2025
Gwen and Gabe were very cute together in all their nerdiness and shared passions. Gwen was not very self confident, which who would be after a shitty marriage, and a genuine person. Gabe was a cinnamon roll who was utterly love sick. These besties may not have been great at telling each other exactly how they felt, but they still deeply cared for each other and communicated everything else important.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: pregnancy, pregnancy loss (in past), domestic violence (implied, not between MCs), death of a spouse, death of a parent, discussion of mental health and depression, brief mention of childbirth, suspected murder
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: pregnancy, pregnancy loss (in past), domestic violence (implied, not between MCs), death of a spouse, death of a parent, discussion of mental health and depression, brief mention of childbirth, suspected murder
April 30, 2025
This book couldn’t be more perfect! Gabe and Gwen are so sweet together—I adore them. They’re the perfect couple, and I truly enjoyed this friends-to-lovers story. I love playing D&D, so when I saw this monster romance with a D&D twist, I had to read it—and it absolutely delivered!
This book is a critical hit in every sense of the word—not a single roll failed in this adventure. It ended with all the glory any D&D character could dream of.
Nerds, best friends, pregnancy, co-owning a shop—who wouldn’t want a romance that nerdy and cute? I especially loved the cameos from characters in other books; they added the perfect touch. The entire story was filled with tabletop references, and I caught myself laughing at so many of them!
Gabe is the sweetest—the perfect best friend, the perfect baby daddy, the perfect love interest, and the ultimate daddy DM. It’s super spicy with a breeding kink and some seriously hot dirty talk.
Ready for a new D&D adventure with a gargoyle DM and a human rogue who’ll steal your heart? Just be warned—you’ll need a box of tissues by the end!
This book is a critical hit in every sense of the word—not a single roll failed in this adventure. It ended with all the glory any D&D character could dream of.
Nerds, best friends, pregnancy, co-owning a shop—who wouldn’t want a romance that nerdy and cute? I especially loved the cameos from characters in other books; they added the perfect touch. The entire story was filled with tabletop references, and I caught myself laughing at so many of them!
Gabe is the sweetest—the perfect best friend, the perfect baby daddy, the perfect love interest, and the ultimate daddy DM. It’s super spicy with a breeding kink and some seriously hot dirty talk.
Ready for a new D&D adventure with a gargoyle DM and a human rogue who’ll steal your heart? Just be warned—you’ll need a box of tissues by the end!
April 26, 2025
**Thank you to the Author & team for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4.25⭐️
2.5🌶
This was such a cute, geeky, pining, and spicy read! It was very quick but full of heart. I really loved Gwen and Gabe's friendship and seeing them bloom into something else!
If you like:
☆D&D
☆best friends to lovers
☆baby pacts
☆pining
☆cozy, spicy, monster romance
Then read this!!
4.25⭐️
2.5🌶
This was such a cute, geeky, pining, and spicy read! It was very quick but full of heart. I really loved Gwen and Gabe's friendship and seeing them bloom into something else!
If you like:
☆D&D
☆best friends to lovers
☆baby pacts
☆pining
☆cozy, spicy, monster romance
Then read this!!
May 1, 2025
✨ARC Review/Release Day✨
This book was so fun 😭 It made me miss my D&D group. Gabe and Gwen are the CUTEST best friends. The premise stressed me out a bit… but it was so worth it in the end. If you’ve ever been a D&D person or even a gamer, I think you’ll love that aspect in this book!
The spice was chefs kiss, the friendships were perfection. I’m loving that this series keeps bringing us back to previous characters and we get updates 🥹 If you haven’t already, please read them!!
“When Gwen smiles, the entire world stops. It's a miracle I'm able to keep my hands from shaking.”
“He squeezes me tight, and even in this moment where everything is going wrong, he makes everything feel like it should be. Not magically better, but right.”
“You don't wanna roll for it?”
“No need. You won my heart a long time ago.”
This book was so fun 😭 It made me miss my D&D group. Gabe and Gwen are the CUTEST best friends. The premise stressed me out a bit… but it was so worth it in the end. If you’ve ever been a D&D person or even a gamer, I think you’ll love that aspect in this book!
The spice was chefs kiss, the friendships were perfection. I’m loving that this series keeps bringing us back to previous characters and we get updates 🥹 If you haven’t already, please read them!!
“When Gwen smiles, the entire world stops. It's a miracle I'm able to keep my hands from shaking.”
“He squeezes me tight, and even in this moment where everything is going wrong, he makes everything feel like it should be. Not magically better, but right.”
“You don't wanna roll for it?”
“No need. You won my heart a long time ago.”
April 27, 2025
And the Hottest DM prize goes to… drumroll... Gabe!
No, seriously, he takes “I’m sleeping with the Dungeon Master” to a whole new level. He… definitely… knows how to use his tail to his advantage. Talking nerdy is my love language, and Gabe is definitely speaking to us, nerds. This DM is critting like it's his job and rolling nat 20s straight to Gwen’s heart. Geeky giggles!
Yet another magical visit to Hallows Cove, book 4 of this series is an absolute critical hit! Gwen and Gabe’s friends-to-lovers story is so endearing: two best friends, completely clueless that they’re head over heels for each other, finally opening their hearts (with a little help from some of our favorite Hallows Cove couples). Cue the waterworks, this story is packed with all the feels. You might want to grab some tissues.
I absolutely loved this story. Cozy, sweet, and steamy. Plus, it’s delightfully nerdy, and filled with LARP, D&D, and many tabletop game references. My geeky, little heart was soaring every time Gabe went full DM mode.
Definitely recommend if you love friends-to-lovers romances, nerdy humor, small town romance, or if you’ve ever dreamed of falling for your very own Dungeon Master.
Thank you so much for the ARC! all opinions are my own.
No, seriously, he takes “I’m sleeping with the Dungeon Master” to a whole new level. He… definitely… knows how to use his tail to his advantage. Talking nerdy is my love language, and Gabe is definitely speaking to us, nerds. This DM is critting like it's his job and rolling nat 20s straight to Gwen’s heart. Geeky giggles!
Yet another magical visit to Hallows Cove, book 4 of this series is an absolute critical hit! Gwen and Gabe’s friends-to-lovers story is so endearing: two best friends, completely clueless that they’re head over heels for each other, finally opening their hearts (with a little help from some of our favorite Hallows Cove couples). Cue the waterworks, this story is packed with all the feels. You might want to grab some tissues.
I absolutely loved this story. Cozy, sweet, and steamy. Plus, it’s delightfully nerdy, and filled with LARP, D&D, and many tabletop game references. My geeky, little heart was soaring every time Gabe went full DM mode.
Definitely recommend if you love friends-to-lovers romances, nerdy humor, small town romance, or if you’ve ever dreamed of falling for your very own Dungeon Master.
Thank you so much for the ARC! all opinions are my own.
May 2, 2025
Thank you Kass O’Shire for the ARC!
Trigger or content warning? Yes, included in book.
Details?
Gwen is the FMC. Gabe is the MMC. He is 27 years old. I believe Gwen is the same age as Gabe.
Past OM, named Preston who is Gabe’s older half-brother. Gwen and Preston got married, and she finds out after he has died that he was cheating on her (leading an entire double life in the city). Gwen got married to Preston because he was there, and she was sad that Gabe was away at school.
No on page OW drama. Pasts are briefly mentioned but not in depth.
No condoms used, breeding heavily on page.
Both with others after meeting, they have been friends for years.
My thoughts?
I was unsure if I was going to like this story when it was announced that Gwen and Gabe were paired together. I’m not usually one for friends to lovers, but somehow they snuck their way into my heart. Gwen was alone and trying to keep up with the pressure of her sick Dad. Gabe was away at school and her usual support system was gone. In comes Preston, sometimes it’s easy to get sucked into the mundane. Preston though, was a real prick. Nothing mundane about that part of him.
I know that Preston being a prick was the only reason why I was okay with the borderline-emotional-cheating going on between Gwen and Gabe. How else do you describe being hopelessly in love with someone when you’re married? Gabe was her monster. Her one. Preston was an unfortunate detour that she remained faithful to. Yet Gabe was her monster, her best friend that shared the gaming business. I will stress, Gabe and Gwen never crossed a physical or verbal boundary. I was just reflecting that Gabe and Gwen’s connection is one that a good spouse dreads with a best friend haha! Preston was not a good man, and Gwen truly is free from him.
Yet, when I was reading I fell in love with Gabe and Gwen. Her hesitation to take the step, Gabe’s quiet determination to not let her slip from his claws again. Her being oblivious to it, and a wonderful planned breeding to help Gwen. Heh heh, “help Gwen” yeah she needed help alright. I was flustered throughout their spicy scenes, and she definitely needed the help with *clears throat* stretching. It was satisfying to finally see them get their happily ever after.
The group scenes of everyone playing the adventure games had to be some of my favourite, the pop ups of the past couples were amazing. This book was obviously about Gwen and Gabe but the small pop ups of the other couples served like little extended epilogues. Pure fluff, pure goodness.
Trigger or content warning? Yes, included in book.
Details?
Gwen is the FMC. Gabe is the MMC. He is 27 years old. I believe Gwen is the same age as Gabe.
Past OM, named Preston who is Gabe’s older half-brother. Gwen and Preston got married, and she finds out after he has died that he was cheating on her (leading an entire double life in the city). Gwen got married to Preston because he was there, and she was sad that Gabe was away at school.
No on page OW drama. Pasts are briefly mentioned but not in depth.
No condoms used, breeding heavily on page.
Both with others after meeting, they have been friends for years.
My thoughts?
I was unsure if I was going to like this story when it was announced that Gwen and Gabe were paired together. I’m not usually one for friends to lovers, but somehow they snuck their way into my heart. Gwen was alone and trying to keep up with the pressure of her sick Dad. Gabe was away at school and her usual support system was gone. In comes Preston, sometimes it’s easy to get sucked into the mundane. Preston though, was a real prick. Nothing mundane about that part of him.
I know that Preston being a prick was the only reason why I was okay with the borderline-emotional-cheating going on between Gwen and Gabe. How else do you describe being hopelessly in love with someone when you’re married? Gabe was her monster. Her one. Preston was an unfortunate detour that she remained faithful to. Yet Gabe was her monster, her best friend that shared the gaming business. I will stress, Gabe and Gwen never crossed a physical or verbal boundary. I was just reflecting that Gabe and Gwen’s connection is one that a good spouse dreads with a best friend haha! Preston was not a good man, and Gwen truly is free from him.
Yet, when I was reading I fell in love with Gabe and Gwen. Her hesitation to take the step, Gabe’s quiet determination to not let her slip from his claws again. Her being oblivious to it, and a wonderful planned breeding to help Gwen. Heh heh, “help Gwen” yeah she needed help alright. I was flustered throughout their spicy scenes, and she definitely needed the help with *clears throat* stretching. It was satisfying to finally see them get their happily ever after.
The group scenes of everyone playing the adventure games had to be some of my favourite, the pop ups of the past couples were amazing. This book was obviously about Gwen and Gabe but the small pop ups of the other couples served like little extended epilogues. Pure fluff, pure goodness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2025
“Gwen, we will have this baby for the rest of our lives. A baby isn’t a solution to a problem, it’s a gift.”
Gwen's conjugal properties were being contested and she cannot lose those assets. Being pregnant was the only solution to her problem. Enter her best friend and gargoyle, Gabe, who's in love with her for years.
Going in, I kinda knew that this book is a pregnancy trope and I didn't expect we gonna get right on it. I wished we saw more of their friendship history and how their secret feelings developed, but we were thrown right into the plot.
I love this small town and the characters. Book 2 and book 3 characters were prominent in this book, and I love seeing it. Their friendship was such a cute found family trope, and I love seeing the progress in their relationships.
I always love going back to this town, and I cannot wait for the next one!
Gwen's conjugal properties were being contested and she cannot lose those assets. Being pregnant was the only solution to her problem. Enter her best friend and gargoyle, Gabe, who's in love with her for years.
Going in, I kinda knew that this book is a pregnancy trope and I didn't expect we gonna get right on it. I wished we saw more of their friendship history and how their secret feelings developed, but we were thrown right into the plot.
I love this small town and the characters. Book 2 and book 3 characters were prominent in this book, and I love seeing it. Their friendship was such a cute found family trope, and I love seeing the progress in their relationships.
I always love going back to this town, and I cannot wait for the next one!
June 19, 2025
Stop it. That was ADORABLE.
July 30, 2025
This was really cute, heartfelt, emotional and, don't worry, full of smut.
April 25, 2025
This book is an absolute critical hit for fans of quirky monster romance and fun tabletop shenanagains. It's sweet, steamy, and full of nerdy charm- like if your favorite campaign ending in a TPF instead of a TPK.
Gwen's a widow, but don't worry, her late husband was less "lost love" and more "please roll for emotional damage." Her late husband left behind more red flags than a murderhobo. Gabe, his quiet gargoyle half brother, has been holding a torch for Gwen for ages, but has kept it hidden behind layers of stone-faced shyness.
When a bizarre stipulation in the will is revealed, and threatens to take away the gaming shop that Gabe and Gwen co-own, Gwen cultivates a plan. She's going to make a baby with Gabe, and save the store. Nothing could possibly go wrong with sleeping with your best friend, right? It's a crit fail on logic, but a total win for all the steamy tension!
Their cute interactions and steamy medium burn chemistry is off the charts with plenty of awkward flirting, pent-up desire, and the kid of "accidental touches" when Gabe is Stone, that make you want to roll for constitution!
So when the pact gets serious, Gabe gets super awkward. But at least he is a melt your stone heart cinnamon roll! And he may be cold on the outside, but he's very warm on the inside!
The one thing I didn't like about this story was Gwen's deceased spouse. I know, he's supposed to be the bad guy. I get that. But we already disliked him, and then we are given more reasons to dislike him. And then more reasons come to light. and more. and more. and more. It really feels like a hat on a hat, redundant, and I think that he didn't need to be all the bad things, just picking one or two would have sufficed.
This book was an absolute pleasure to read! It was funny, steamy and full of nerdy humor (I'm sure half of it went over my head, but I still enjoyed it!!). I highly recommend it for anyone who loves monster romance, especially if you're into sweet and spicy gargoyle/human pairings, pregnancy pacts, and more gaming references than I could even come up with a good comparison for!
So come on in for the wings and abs, and stay for the dice rolls and emotional payoffs! I know you'll love the journey as much as I did!
Gwen's a widow, but don't worry, her late husband was less "lost love" and more "please roll for emotional damage." Her late husband left behind more red flags than a murderhobo. Gabe, his quiet gargoyle half brother, has been holding a torch for Gwen for ages, but has kept it hidden behind layers of stone-faced shyness.
When a bizarre stipulation in the will is revealed, and threatens to take away the gaming shop that Gabe and Gwen co-own, Gwen cultivates a plan. She's going to make a baby with Gabe, and save the store. Nothing could possibly go wrong with sleeping with your best friend, right? It's a crit fail on logic, but a total win for all the steamy tension!
Their cute interactions and steamy medium burn chemistry is off the charts with plenty of awkward flirting, pent-up desire, and the kid of "accidental touches" when Gabe is Stone, that make you want to roll for constitution!
So when the pact gets serious, Gabe gets super awkward. But at least he is a melt your stone heart cinnamon roll! And he may be cold on the outside, but he's very warm on the inside!
The one thing I didn't like about this story was Gwen's deceased spouse. I know, he's supposed to be the bad guy. I get that. But we already disliked him, and then we are given more reasons to dislike him. And then more reasons come to light. and more. and more. and more. It really feels like a hat on a hat, redundant, and I think that he didn't need to be all the bad things, just picking one or two would have sufficed.
This book was an absolute pleasure to read! It was funny, steamy and full of nerdy humor (I'm sure half of it went over my head, but I still enjoyed it!!). I highly recommend it for anyone who loves monster romance, especially if you're into sweet and spicy gargoyle/human pairings, pregnancy pacts, and more gaming references than I could even come up with a good comparison for!
So come on in for the wings and abs, and stay for the dice rolls and emotional payoffs! I know you'll love the journey as much as I did!
May 2, 2025
Gaming with the Gargoyle is the first book I've read by Kass O'Shire, and it won't be my last. This book was so cute; it's a best friends-to-lovers romance. Gwen and Gabe, G&G, are the sweetest non-couple ever. Both are a little nerdy and super into games, especially role-playing. They are beyond perfect for each other, but they suck at timing. Now is their time.
The romance was sweet and hot as heck. I can't believe it all started with a pregnancy pact, but it was just the push Gwen and Gabe needed. Gwen may have been a bit of a mess (I mean, she married Preston), but I liked her. Gabe was super cute. Gabe was all in, and he did everything he could to let Gwen know she was wanted, even if she didn't realize it then. He put so much effort and thought into everything; it was hard not to fall for him. The rest of the plot was good. There was some juicy family history, betrayal, financial drama (she needs an heir), past manipulation, emotional abuse (not the MMC), and more that made the story very entertaining. The gaming aspect was delightful and unique. Kass did a great job incorporating it into the story.
I loved everything about this book. One of my favorites, though, was the friend group. This is the first Hallow's Cove book where it was really highlighted. They have a tight bond, and as each person finds their mate, they become one big family. I love the found family trope. If you're looking for a fun, adorable, cozy monster romance, then I highly suggest this book.
The romance was sweet and hot as heck. I can't believe it all started with a pregnancy pact, but it was just the push Gwen and Gabe needed. Gwen may have been a bit of a mess (I mean, she married Preston), but I liked her. Gabe was super cute. Gabe was all in, and he did everything he could to let Gwen know she was wanted, even if she didn't realize it then. He put so much effort and thought into everything; it was hard not to fall for him. The rest of the plot was good. There was some juicy family history, betrayal, financial drama (she needs an heir), past manipulation, emotional abuse (not the MMC), and more that made the story very entertaining. The gaming aspect was delightful and unique. Kass did a great job incorporating it into the story.
I loved everything about this book. One of my favorites, though, was the friend group. This is the first Hallow's Cove book where it was really highlighted. They have a tight bond, and as each person finds their mate, they become one big family. I love the found family trope. If you're looking for a fun, adorable, cozy monster romance, then I highly suggest this book.
June 29, 2025
The epilogue may or may not have made me cry.
May 9, 2025
This was a short, fun read, but sadly fell flat for me. I usually adore Kass O' Shire's writing, but this one just overall felt different. The story wasn't overly engaging, and a lot of it felt forced (at least I personally think so). I did like Gwyn and Gabe, all the D&D references, and the spice was really well written, but overall I just didn't vibe with it. I'm sure others will love it, and I could definitely see elements I'd have liked more if they were developed or drawn out!
3/5 🌟
3/5 🌟
April 28, 2025
Kicking my feet with this best friends to lovers story!
Gwen and Gabe are the sweetest nerd couple! I loved everything about this story--the plot, the spice, the characters. Both MCs demonstrate so much kindness and understanding, never wanting the other to feel like their freedom is taken away. They are the best case scenario of having a pregnancy pact with your best friend!
Each story out of Hallow's Cove has been amazing--I can't wait for the next one!
Gwen and Gabe are the sweetest nerd couple! I loved everything about this story--the plot, the spice, the characters. Both MCs demonstrate so much kindness and understanding, never wanting the other to feel like their freedom is taken away. They are the best case scenario of having a pregnancy pact with your best friend!
Each story out of Hallow's Cove has been amazing--I can't wait for the next one!
dnf
June 22, 2025DNF @ 10%
Not sure I like this author’s style, a lot of exclamation points
Not sure I like this author’s style, a lot of exclamation points
May 1, 2025
This book feels half-baked. The reasons for the pregnancy pact make no sense. The reasons keeping the characters apart are even flimsier. The resolution of the main conflict comes outta nowhere. The RPG element is written in a way that is alienating and boring for someone not familiar with RPGs. And the book is riddled with typos, switching tenses, comma splices, and missing words and punctuation.
May 6, 2025
I’m not entirely sure how to rate this book, because overall, it was…fine? But it was also not good.
The main conflict is presented, essentially ignored for 75-85% of the book, and then very neatly wrapped up in a bow with little to no actual explanation or depth. The pregnancy plot line was obviously the more important aspect of the story, and this “main” conflict, brought on by her dead husband’s general asshattery, was presented simply to lead us there.
The friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and it is certainly present here, but in the most unwieldy way. They’re best friends, have been since they were kids, they had crushes on each other (and as we were told many times she “moved on” when he showed no signs of interest), he put his feelings aside when she married his brother, and then in present day, they have very limited serious conversation before trying for a baby to “save the store” or something (I don’t really even know at this point, it was dumb). The majority of the book is just sex and very in-depth DnD quests, and not much actually showing us their friendship. They don’t have any real conversation about their feelings until over 80% into the story, and both required multiple other people to tell them they should just talk to each other.
Most of the DnD jargon felt awkward and unnecessary, but perhaps I am just not the audience for that as I don’t play the game. (Though I have read another series centered around a DnD group that made the terminology much more non-player friendly.)
Also, the way technology is utilized in this story was very bizarre. No wifi anywhere, someone has dial up, the FMC has a flip phone, etc. And I shit you not, at one point, the FMC says that another character takes her cell phone to the landline to make a call because “they don’t have wifi in the house and she probably has the number in there,” as if a cell phone can’t be used without wifi…okay.
Finally, I hope this had at least one more pass of editing before release day, because it was bad. There were far too many instances where the wrong word was used, making the sentences difficult to parse properly.
***Thank you to the author for an ARC.***
The main conflict is presented, essentially ignored for 75-85% of the book, and then very neatly wrapped up in a bow with little to no actual explanation or depth. The pregnancy plot line was obviously the more important aspect of the story, and this “main” conflict, brought on by her dead husband’s general asshattery, was presented simply to lead us there.
The friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and it is certainly present here, but in the most unwieldy way. They’re best friends, have been since they were kids, they had crushes on each other (and as we were told many times she “moved on” when he showed no signs of interest), he put his feelings aside when she married his brother, and then in present day, they have very limited serious conversation before trying for a baby to “save the store” or something (I don’t really even know at this point, it was dumb). The majority of the book is just sex and very in-depth DnD quests, and not much actually showing us their friendship. They don’t have any real conversation about their feelings until over 80% into the story, and both required multiple other people to tell them they should just talk to each other.
Most of the DnD jargon felt awkward and unnecessary, but perhaps I am just not the audience for that as I don’t play the game. (Though I have read another series centered around a DnD group that made the terminology much more non-player friendly.)
Also, the way technology is utilized in this story was very bizarre. No wifi anywhere, someone has dial up, the FMC has a flip phone, etc. And I shit you not, at one point, the FMC says that another character takes her cell phone to the landline to make a call because “they don’t have wifi in the house and she probably has the number in there,” as if a cell phone can’t be used without wifi…okay.
Finally, I hope this had at least one more pass of editing before release day, because it was bad. There were far too many instances where the wrong word was used, making the sentences difficult to parse properly.
***Thank you to the author for an ARC.***
July 28, 2025
3.5 Stars
I really really wanted to like this more. The gaming (both D&D and board games) was fun, but it just felt super physical. There was A LOT of baggage, especially on Gwen's part and for how short this was it was too much. I just felt like she got past things magically and now they're suddenly happy in love and having sex all the time. I get it was a baby pact, but I feel like there could've been a less heavy way to get to that point where I didn't feel like she wasn't emotionally ready to start a new relationship let alone have a baby.
Also, side note, I love the game store and it sounds perfect. How in the heck are they staying in business in a small town. I live in a smaller city/larger town (we have a university so it's fairly large but not quite full blown city) and we can barely support two local gaming stores even with one being half cafe. Also this felt like it was set in the late 90s or early 00s. I think it was supposed to be modern, but the dial up and phone and internet not being readily available in something that wasn't obvious set in the past kept throwing me out of the story. That and I just got over the steam at some point.
I will say though, the gaming rep was great and I definitely want to read more from Kass, maybe just more full length.
I really really wanted to like this more. The gaming (both D&D and board games) was fun, but it just felt super physical. There was A LOT of baggage, especially on Gwen's part and for how short this was it was too much. I just felt like she got past things magically and now they're suddenly happy in love and having sex all the time. I get it was a baby pact, but I feel like there could've been a less heavy way to get to that point where I didn't feel like she wasn't emotionally ready to start a new relationship let alone have a baby.
Also, side note, I love the game store and it sounds perfect. How in the heck are they staying in business in a small town. I live in a smaller city/larger town (we have a university so it's fairly large but not quite full blown city) and we can barely support two local gaming stores even with one being half cafe. Also this felt like it was set in the late 90s or early 00s. I think it was supposed to be modern, but the dial up and phone and internet not being readily available in something that wasn't obvious set in the past kept throwing me out of the story. That and I just got over the steam at some point.
I will say though, the gaming rep was great and I definitely want to read more from Kass, maybe just more full length.
April 30, 2025
“Suitors? Mother, are you preparing to sell me off for a couple of cows?”
-Gwen
“We don’t have to have sex or anything, we can just, like—turkey baster it.”
-Gwen
“So no, I physically cannot go into a closet with a video and come out with a cup of baby batter for you. It just… doesn’t work that way.”
-Gabe
Dude. This story was stupid in the best way. It had me laughing throughout the whole thing. That is when it wasn’t making me swoon or shocked when sweet Gabe did or said something wonderfully filthy.
There are a few questions about logistics, but maybe they are more directed to Hallow's Cove. What is 100% certain is that a trip to this place is needed to have firsthand experience of Midnight Mayhem. That shit sounds fun as hell.
If you love small town, friends to lovers, and monster smut, get this!!! It was cute, fun, witty, and had me crying at the adorableness of it all. Now it feels like Kass’ entire backlog must be read. Immediately!
-Gwen
“We don’t have to have sex or anything, we can just, like—turkey baster it.”
-Gwen
“So no, I physically cannot go into a closet with a video and come out with a cup of baby batter for you. It just… doesn’t work that way.”
-Gabe
Dude. This story was stupid in the best way. It had me laughing throughout the whole thing. That is when it wasn’t making me swoon or shocked when sweet Gabe did or said something wonderfully filthy.
There are a few questions about logistics, but maybe they are more directed to Hallow's Cove. What is 100% certain is that a trip to this place is needed to have firsthand experience of Midnight Mayhem. That shit sounds fun as hell.
If you love small town, friends to lovers, and monster smut, get this!!! It was cute, fun, witty, and had me crying at the adorableness of it all. Now it feels like Kass’ entire backlog must be read. Immediately!
July 9, 2025
Hands down one of my favorite Monster romances that I’ve read!
My thoughts:
-Once again this little town has swept me off my feet and stolen my heart!
-I absolutely adored Gwen and Gabe’s story!
-Their whole dynamic and how despite everything they stayed literally each other’s rock( you see what I did there?)
-Everything that Gwen endured at the hands of her late husband, Preston, who happens to also be Gabe’s half brother will have you in all your feels…
-And Gabe this sweet and loyal gargoyle… whose world revolves around the person closeted to him… that despite being a gargoyle and never seeing the sun he describes her as his sun.
-Their friendship… their chemistry…it’s all phenomenal!
-And can we talk about their chemistry… like this MMC went from sweet nerdy gargoyle to daddy gargoyle… at the drop of a hat! And lawd it was HOT!
-The game…. THE LETTERS… y’all I was crying along with Gwen!
-I seriously loved this book so much!
-This truly was one of my favorite monster romance reads to date!!!
My thoughts:
-Once again this little town has swept me off my feet and stolen my heart!
-I absolutely adored Gwen and Gabe’s story!
-Their whole dynamic and how despite everything they stayed literally each other’s rock( you see what I did there?)
-Everything that Gwen endured at the hands of her late husband, Preston, who happens to also be Gabe’s half brother will have you in all your feels…
-And Gabe this sweet and loyal gargoyle… whose world revolves around the person closeted to him… that despite being a gargoyle and never seeing the sun he describes her as his sun.
-Their friendship… their chemistry…it’s all phenomenal!
-And can we talk about their chemistry… like this MMC went from sweet nerdy gargoyle to daddy gargoyle… at the drop of a hat! And lawd it was HOT!
-The game…. THE LETTERS… y’all I was crying along with Gwen!
-I seriously loved this book so much!
-This truly was one of my favorite monster romance reads to date!!!
May 2, 2025
Gaming with the Gargoyle is a delightful, feel good, friends to lovers story - and Gabe is just so darn sweet he made my teeth ache! Lots of yearning from both Gabe and Gwen as they find the courage to share their hearts with each other and some seriously hot dirty talk as they go about their baby making! 🥵
I quite enjoyed all the gaming references even though it’s been some some years since I’ve played tabletop games, but you certainly don’t need to in order to enjoy the story. This is a great read with beautiful, heartfelt emotion that actually made me tear up a couple times. Loved it!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I quite enjoyed all the gaming references even though it’s been some some years since I’ve played tabletop games, but you certainly don’t need to in order to enjoy the story. This is a great read with beautiful, heartfelt emotion that actually made me tear up a couple times. Loved it!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 18, 2025
I love the geekiness and how adorable nerd love is in this book. I like the two main characters but omg are they blind. I thought one thing because the beginning but after the accident happened and time passed plus how they absolutely adore each other they should have got together way sooner. Just one talk could have solved the problems they felt when it came between them. I’m also confused about the case stuff but maybe that will be answered in another book. Pretty great romance tho, I definitely will be stealing some of these ideas cause they are cool, romantic ( in my opinion) and absolutely fun.
September 7, 2025
This book was okay, not terrible, but nothing particularly special or memorable either.
The story follows Gwen, a human, and Gabe, a gargoyle, who have been friends for most of their lives while secretly harboring feelings for one another. When Gabe leaves the country for college, Gwen grows close to his half-brother Preston (a human), eventually marrying him.
Marriage, however, does nothing to ease the lingering tension between Gwen and Gabe, and Preston quickly proves himself to be a poor husband. After Preston’s untimely death, Gwen is left to deal with the fallout, including a contested inheritance brought forth by a supposed 2nd wife.
I usually enjoy monster romances, but despite its shorter length, this one felt slow and, at times, tedious. Gwen and Gabe’s nerdiness and shared love of Dungeons & Dragons was charming at first, but even that began to lose its luster as the story dragged on.
The subplot with the inheritance and the second wife also felt confusing and poorly developed. Gwen was married to Preston first, so the idea that another marriage could override hers and contest the will didn’t make much sense. The eventual resolution of this conflict was unsatisfying and left me with more questions than answers.
Another element that didn’t work for me was the “agreement” between Gwen and Gabe to have a baby solely for the sake of claiming the inheritance while remaining “just friends.” It felt contrived and I believe it diminished the emotional impact of their relationship.
That said, the characters themselves were likable; both main and supporting; with the clear exception of Preston. This made the story somewhat enjoyable in parts, but the sluggish pacing and underwhelming plot kept me from being fully engaged.
Overall, this was simply an average read. The writing was fine, the characters were fine, and the story was fine, but nothing more. While it didn’t work for me, I encourage others to give it a try, as it may resonate with different readers.
⭐️⭐️❌❌❌/5.
The story follows Gwen, a human, and Gabe, a gargoyle, who have been friends for most of their lives while secretly harboring feelings for one another. When Gabe leaves the country for college, Gwen grows close to his half-brother Preston (a human), eventually marrying him.
Marriage, however, does nothing to ease the lingering tension between Gwen and Gabe, and Preston quickly proves himself to be a poor husband. After Preston’s untimely death, Gwen is left to deal with the fallout, including a contested inheritance brought forth by a supposed 2nd wife.
I usually enjoy monster romances, but despite its shorter length, this one felt slow and, at times, tedious. Gwen and Gabe’s nerdiness and shared love of Dungeons & Dragons was charming at first, but even that began to lose its luster as the story dragged on.
The subplot with the inheritance and the second wife also felt confusing and poorly developed. Gwen was married to Preston first, so the idea that another marriage could override hers and contest the will didn’t make much sense. The eventual resolution of this conflict was unsatisfying and left me with more questions than answers.
Another element that didn’t work for me was the “agreement” between Gwen and Gabe to have a baby solely for the sake of claiming the inheritance while remaining “just friends.” It felt contrived and I believe it diminished the emotional impact of their relationship.
That said, the characters themselves were likable; both main and supporting; with the clear exception of Preston. This made the story somewhat enjoyable in parts, but the sluggish pacing and underwhelming plot kept me from being fully engaged.
Overall, this was simply an average read. The writing was fine, the characters were fine, and the story was fine, but nothing more. While it didn’t work for me, I encourage others to give it a try, as it may resonate with different readers.
⭐️⭐️❌❌❌/5.
May 1, 2025
Such a fun story between two besties who have been obsessed with each other for years. I was happily held captive by the witty banter, the roleplaying (both in and out of the bedroom), and the nerdvana of so many great references to RPG’s. As a DnD player myself, it was really fun to put myself in their shoes and I was rooting for them the whole way. Being with your best friend really is the best and getting to make babies with them is also pretty great. If you don’t mind breeding kinks, bff’s to lovers, sky high seductions, and HEA’s this one is for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
Gabe and Gwen are best friends that fell in love with each other at different times. Their love isn't as unrequited as they think, but circumstances have kept them apart.
Namely, her husband (now dead) was his brother. And the fact her husband had a whole other wife leaves his will contested.
Expect nerdy love with sexy D&D role play. Lots of breeeeding. Pregnancy mostly in epilogue. There is discussion of previous miscarriage.
Namely, her husband (now dead) was his brother. And the fact her husband had a whole other wife leaves his will contested.
Expect nerdy love with sexy D&D role play. Lots of breeeeding. Pregnancy mostly in epilogue. There is discussion of previous miscarriage.
April 28, 2025
This book was adorable and nerdy to the max and I loved every second of it! Gabe and Gwen were so freaking cute together and it made it even better that they were best friends first. Kass O'Shire aced the nerdy references y'all!!! From beginning to end I was hooked and wholly invested in Gwen and Gabe's story...and it was the HEA I had hoped for and so much more.
April 29, 2025
I loved Gwen and Gabe so much. I could perfectly picture them together and I loved how nerdy they were. They reminded me of my wife and I 🥹
This book especially has a lot of cameos from the other Hallow's Cove books, and it's really starting to feel like a little community. As a reader, I feel like I'm included because I already know everybody and their stories.
Also the spice in this one 🥵🥵
This book especially has a lot of cameos from the other Hallow's Cove books, and it's really starting to feel like a little community. As a reader, I feel like I'm included because I already know everybody and their stories.
Also the spice in this one 🥵🥵
May 11, 2025
3.25⭐️ I think this was fun and a fluffy palette cleanser book, I did think that the miscommunication between them went on a bit too long though. It was not talked about until literally the last 2 pages, I think these two were fun and sweet to read about but I wanted them to communicate sooner about their feelings. Otherwise a fun read!
April 29, 2025
Oh my sweet heart. That was the most adorable short story by kass ever. I have read a lot by her! But this was so cute and beautiful. I fell for the characters automatically and enjoyed the whole story. So cute.
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