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Mate's Mark #1
Ronan
It's been almost a century since the veil fell and monsters invaded the world. We didn't give the humans an opportunity to retaliate as we charged in and took over, and I was at the head of the front lines with my sword in hand. A perfect soldier, fighting the battles that ultimately put my people in charge of this planet. Half of humanity was slaughtered, and in the decades since the invasion, things have only gotten worse. Tensions between the rebel humans and monsters grew as the climate changed, and temperatures rose as resources dwindled. The sun scorched away plants and trees, leaving behind a husk of a planet where everyone fights for survival.
The Fates were furious at our violence, and now we're trapped inside the hell we created.
We've all heard tale of the Mate's Mark, and how we're destined to find our fated mate. One human, one monster - foretold to be the cure to this cursed world and repair the damage that has been done. What was once the cause of curiosity and intrigue has turned into nothing more than a mockery. Decades have passed, and not a single pair of fated mates had been found.
Until now.
Until me.
Until the night I pull off my armor and find the mark staring back.
Author's note: Ronan is a First Person Dual POV MM Monster Romance series with explicit content intended for readers 18+. It is the first in a series that will have an overarching storyline carrying between books. While this series ends with a guaranteed HEA, individual books end on more of a HFN basis. The feature couple's story will be resolved, though there will be some unanswered questions and mild cliffhangers that lead into the next in the series.
The Fates were furious at our violence, and now we're trapped inside the hell we created.
We've all heard tale of the Mate's Mark, and how we're destined to find our fated mate. One human, one monster - foretold to be the cure to this cursed world and repair the damage that has been done. What was once the cause of curiosity and intrigue has turned into nothing more than a mockery. Decades have passed, and not a single pair of fated mates had been found.
Until now.
Until me.
Until the night I pull off my armor and find the mark staring back.
Author's note: Ronan is a First Person Dual POV MM Monster Romance series with explicit content intended for readers 18+. It is the first in a series that will have an overarching storyline carrying between books. While this series ends with a guaranteed HEA, individual books end on more of a HFN basis. The feature couple's story will be resolved, though there will be some unanswered questions and mild cliffhangers that lead into the next in the series.
457 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2025
About the author
G. Eilsel
23 books337 followersG. Eilsel started writing under this pen name in early 2024, publishing works in two genres she loves: eccentric novellas and MM romance.
Her writing puts a focus on sarcasm, snarky humor, sometimes horrible puns, and steamy scenes that'll make your momma blush. Expect heavy spice, in any sort of variety you're looking for-sweet, emotional, depraved, or downright questionable.
Some of her books are one-handed reads with minimal plot, others are more intricate stories that weave themselves through her brain and demand to be put on paper. Angsty and emotional, light and giggle-inducing, and everything in between can be found between the covers of her books.
She doesn't take herself too seriously, throwing pieces of her humor and quirky personality in her writing. If she can't live up to her title of a One-Handed author, then maybe she can at least make you smile.
Her writing puts a focus on sarcasm, snarky humor, sometimes horrible puns, and steamy scenes that'll make your momma blush. Expect heavy spice, in any sort of variety you're looking for-sweet, emotional, depraved, or downright questionable.
Some of her books are one-handed reads with minimal plot, others are more intricate stories that weave themselves through her brain and demand to be put on paper. Angsty and emotional, light and giggle-inducing, and everything in between can be found between the covers of her books.
She doesn't take herself too seriously, throwing pieces of her humor and quirky personality in her writing. If she can't live up to her title of a One-Handed author, then maybe she can at least make you smile.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 369 reviews
July 16, 2025
loved Lily Mayne’s Soul Eater, so when I stumbled across this book, I thought, “Nice—Soul Eater but in a different font.” The premise had me genuinely intrigued: post-apocalyptic world, monsters roaming free, potential for dark romance and gritty survival. Sign me up, right?
Well… turns out I should’ve just re-read Soul Eater.
Let’s start with the worldbuilding— Apparently, the monsters crossed over into the human world more than 100 years ago, and humanity is basically toast. Civilization? Gone. Society? Collapsed. But somehow our main character talks like he has Wi-Fi and TikTok. Lines like “I slow clap for some added pizzazz,” or “someone give this guy a job in PR,” or calling someone “Emo boy”? Really? Who's handing out marketing degrees and pop culture references in this monster-ravaged wasteland?
The inconsistencies were wild. I was constantly yanked out of the story by modern slang that had no business surviving the apocalypse. Unless there’s an underground tik tok still working somewhere?
And then there’s Cameron. Oh, Cameron. At first, I thought his snark was a coping mechanism—he's stuck in a nightmare, sure, let him be dramatic. But it never stops. He's snarky in every. single. sentence. It went from mildly amusing to “please shut up” at lightning speed.
As for his love interest, Ronan the monster... he was just there. A growly, vaguely threatening wallpaper. Their chemistry was nonexistent, their dynamic flat, and honestly, I kept hoping a better monster would show up and steal the spotlight (and Cameron’s vocal cords).
Overall, I was disappointed. I wanted to love this. I should’ve loved this. But what I got was a snark overload in a world that made zero sense. Do yourself a favor—if you're craving a mm monster romance, stick with Lily Mayne. At least her apocalypse has believable vibes.
Well… turns out I should’ve just re-read Soul Eater.
Let’s start with the worldbuilding— Apparently, the monsters crossed over into the human world more than 100 years ago, and humanity is basically toast. Civilization? Gone. Society? Collapsed. But somehow our main character talks like he has Wi-Fi and TikTok. Lines like “I slow clap for some added pizzazz,” or “someone give this guy a job in PR,” or calling someone “Emo boy”? Really? Who's handing out marketing degrees and pop culture references in this monster-ravaged wasteland?
The inconsistencies were wild. I was constantly yanked out of the story by modern slang that had no business surviving the apocalypse. Unless there’s an underground tik tok still working somewhere?
And then there’s Cameron. Oh, Cameron. At first, I thought his snark was a coping mechanism—he's stuck in a nightmare, sure, let him be dramatic. But it never stops. He's snarky in every. single. sentence. It went from mildly amusing to “please shut up” at lightning speed.
As for his love interest, Ronan the monster... he was just there. A growly, vaguely threatening wallpaper. Their chemistry was nonexistent, their dynamic flat, and honestly, I kept hoping a better monster would show up and steal the spotlight (and Cameron’s vocal cords).
Overall, I was disappointed. I wanted to love this. I should’ve loved this. But what I got was a snark overload in a world that made zero sense. Do yourself a favor—if you're craving a mm monster romance, stick with Lily Mayne. At least her apocalypse has believable vibes.
July 13, 2026
NOT ONLY DID HE HAVE 2 TAILS…….. He in fact, HAD THREE.
AND THE CUTEST LIL TEEFERS!!!!!!!!!
(I admit, the tail use was not as much as I would have liked, but hey, beggars can’t be choosers and all that jazz, at least it was incorporated heheh)
Also, I NEEEEEEED MORE FATED MATES WITH THIS SET UP???
Like, yes they’re fated….. but for a solid 50% of the book they’re both very like… “we aren’t mates, I’m going to leave” and “I will not force him to stay with me” and don’t even really get kissy until 50% or after?
And they love to figh and beef, and Cam is the neediest lil brattu bitch sometimes, but I kinda liked his weird desperate need for love and attention.
I love when fated mates has NONE OF THE INSTA LOVE SHIT THAT USUALLY ANNOYS ME ABOUT FATED MATES. Hooray!
Because ssrsly….. If a man with a shiny arm tattoo was all “hey I’m your mate”
Would I fall in love instantly? I think the fuck not.
But could I maybe if we spent enough time together, and you saw that the man/monster was actually a big hulking man with a big old…….. heart. And he cares for you, and makes sure you’re okay, and brings supplies, and free’s you from prison… AND DID I MENTION HIS CUTE LIL SMOL TEEF AND THREE TAILS……… because maybe then I would be okay if we were mates.
Whilst I understand if people who’ve read monstrous/Edin could get annoyed that this is monstrous from Temu. I actually LOVED that about it?? Because it was like being with my homies again, but in a different font? And I think the dynamic between Ronan and Cameron was enough to disconnect from Edin tbh.
The ending was very Monstorous-esque because it’s obviously introducing all the side charcacters from the next books and I see it turning into a big monster/human found family, AND IMA BE EATING SO GOOD
AND THE CUTEST LIL TEEFERS!!!!!!!!!
(I admit, the tail use was not as much as I would have liked, but hey, beggars can’t be choosers and all that jazz, at least it was incorporated heheh)
Also, I NEEEEEEED MORE FATED MATES WITH THIS SET UP???
Like, yes they’re fated….. but for a solid 50% of the book they’re both very like… “we aren’t mates, I’m going to leave” and “I will not force him to stay with me” and don’t even really get kissy until 50% or after?
And they love to figh and beef, and Cam is the neediest lil brattu bitch sometimes, but I kinda liked his weird desperate need for love and attention.
I love when fated mates has NONE OF THE INSTA LOVE SHIT THAT USUALLY ANNOYS ME ABOUT FATED MATES. Hooray!
Because ssrsly….. If a man with a shiny arm tattoo was all “hey I’m your mate”
Would I fall in love instantly? I think the fuck not.
But could I maybe if we spent enough time together, and you saw that the man/monster was actually a big hulking man with a big old…….. heart. And he cares for you, and makes sure you’re okay, and brings supplies, and free’s you from prison… AND DID I MENTION HIS CUTE LIL SMOL TEEF AND THREE TAILS……… because maybe then I would be okay if we were mates.
Whilst I understand if people who’ve read monstrous/Edin could get annoyed that this is monstrous from Temu. I actually LOVED that about it?? Because it was like being with my homies again, but in a different font? And I think the dynamic between Ronan and Cameron was enough to disconnect from Edin tbh.
The ending was very Monstorous-esque because it’s obviously introducing all the side charcacters from the next books and I see it turning into a big monster/human found family, AND IMA BE EATING SO GOOD
June 12, 2026
He could ask for the stars on a string, and I’d scale the heavens to rope them. Even if I complained the whole time.
⬆️ I can relate because I spent the entire time complaining too 😅. I have to admit, in the last 20% this book finally earned my full attention, but the first 80% was a bit rough. It made me want to DNF and read a similar book (I'm sure we all know which one I'm referring to) instead. At 20% in, a new character was introduced and all of a sudden I was all in!
There are several glaring plot holes and inconsistencies, along with some coincidences that made me roll my eyes right into the back of my skull, but overall this book was well written and interesting. I think if you read it prior to any of the Monstrous series by Lily Mayne, it would be even better as it would avoid any comparisons between the two.
I wish Ronan was more monster-like (when he said "spoiler alert" and referred to something not being "on his bingo card" I was like 🙄) and less of a dirty-talking prodigy (it was kinda hot but felt very out of character for him). I also wish Cameron was less child-like and irritating, but as a couple, they really work. Ronan is incredibly patient and long-suffering, and Cameron soaks it all up (he had 1 bad experience awhile ago and Cannot Cope with relationships now).
The book is surprisingly light on plot, and concentrates on world building. One question that nagged me the entire time is why the monsters are so certain that their world is totally gone. That makes no sense to me, but I think the book is best enjoyed if you sit back and don't ask questions 🤣.
March 11, 2026
*3.5* Nearly a century after monsters invaded Earth, the world is still dealing with the fallout of war, environmental collapse, and ongoing tension between humans and monsters.
Ronan (112), is a former soldier who helped conquer the planet, so there’s a lot of guilt and history wrapped up in his character.
Cameron (26), is ridiculously saucy, which makes the banter fun. The absolute SNARK from this guy! Good thing Ronan has the patience of a saint… most of the time.
“Well, he described you as a ‘grumpy purple dude who likes to throw around a tall, skinny sarcastic guy with glasses,’ and oddly enough, it just clicked.”
Tropes/themes:
Gay post apoc romance
Monster–human dynamic
Fated mates
Smokin HOT intimacy
Tails, tails, tails
Fangs/knotting
First times
Organizational kink
Breeding kink
HFN
*Many readers have compared this to Lily Mayne’s Soul Eater. While it does have similarities, it really isn't the same kind of story at all. It’s softer on the monster theme, has more banter and is more of a gentle love story.
Ronan (112), is a former soldier who helped conquer the planet, so there’s a lot of guilt and history wrapped up in his character.
Cameron (26), is ridiculously saucy, which makes the banter fun. The absolute SNARK from this guy! Good thing Ronan has the patience of a saint… most of the time.
“Well, he described you as a ‘grumpy purple dude who likes to throw around a tall, skinny sarcastic guy with glasses,’ and oddly enough, it just clicked.”
Tropes/themes:
Gay post apoc romance
Monster–human dynamic
Fated mates
Smokin HOT intimacy
Tails, tails, tails
Fangs/knotting
First times
Organizational kink
Breeding kink
HFN
*Many readers have compared this to Lily Mayne’s Soul Eater. While it does have similarities, it really isn't the same kind of story at all. It’s softer on the monster theme, has more banter and is more of a gentle love story.
January 2, 2026
* ☘︎ :･ﾟTOP 5 READ 2025 :･ﾟ☘︎ *
4.5***** stars
To put it similar to martina, this was what I wished “Soul Eater” had been for me.
This was an epic dystopian tale that will hopefully also span over a lot of books. The author set up a lot to explore here.
The veil fell and monsters invaded the world. After slaughtering half of humanity and taking control the fates are pissed by their violence so they basically curse them. Now they’re destined to find our fated mate. One human, one monster - foretold to be the cure to this cursed world and repair the damage that has been done.
The first pair we get to see is a kind-hearted but intimidating beast of a monster with the rank of an Officer and a feisty little human, a lone wanderer who get picked up by the military together with a whole lot of rebels by mistake.
And so they journey begins. Always on the run in search of safety for them both.
I loved how their relationship progressed which was not as quick as I expected given they were fated mates. The tension was delicious but it took especially Cameron a while to get over his hangups and start to trust Ronan. But Ronan really fought tooth and nail to make Cam believe and trust him.
*swoon
I already can’t wait to dive into the next book. This was awesome. Great world building, I never felt lost, and a decently fast paced plot that was captivating and made it hard to put this one down.
*************
Mate's Mark Series
Book 1 - Ronan - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Elas - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Nyx - tbd
4.5***** stars
To put it similar to martina, this was what I wished “Soul Eater” had been for me.
This was an epic dystopian tale that will hopefully also span over a lot of books. The author set up a lot to explore here.
The veil fell and monsters invaded the world. After slaughtering half of humanity and taking control the fates are pissed by their violence so they basically curse them. Now they’re destined to find our fated mate. One human, one monster - foretold to be the cure to this cursed world and repair the damage that has been done.
The first pair we get to see is a kind-hearted but intimidating beast of a monster with the rank of an Officer and a feisty little human, a lone wanderer who get picked up by the military together with a whole lot of rebels by mistake.
And so they journey begins. Always on the run in search of safety for them both.
Defined muscles bunch and bulge beneath, glistening with sweat. And damn. I mean… damn. He looks as though he was carved straight from marble and impure thoughts.Bright blue eyes are framed behind a pair of glasses, sharp as a razor and angry as a hornet.
I watch his shoulders rise and fall, sleeping peacefully on his side of the barrier. Making as much racket as I can, I sit up, but the bastard sleeps on, oblivious. Mighty warrior, my ass.
I loved how their relationship progressed which was not as quick as I expected given they were fated mates. The tension was delicious but it took especially Cameron a while to get over his hangups and start to trust Ronan. But Ronan really fought tooth and nail to make Cam believe and trust him.
“What about the times I say all those ugly things I don’t mean? When the glue holding me together fails, and these broken pieces fall apart all over again? It feels like I’m always hurting you, Ro… what happens when I do it again? When I push you away?” “Then I’ll just have to hold on a little tighter those days.”
*swoon
I already can’t wait to dive into the next book. This was awesome. Great world building, I never felt lost, and a decently fast paced plot that was captivating and made it hard to put this one down.
*************
Mate's Mark Series
Book 1 - Ronan - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Elas - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Nyx - tbd
July 30, 2026
5 💜💜💜💜💜
It was inevitable that I would compare this to Lily Mayne’s Monstrous series. Let’s be honest, those monsters stole a piece of my heart. The physical characteristics, the way every single one felt unique and truly different, was so innovative and one of the things that made that series so special to me.
The stories have some similarities, although Mate’s Mark definitely focuses much more on the fated mates aspect. And you know what? I loved both stories, just for completely different reasons.
Monstrous was my first monster romance, so it will probably always have that special place in my heart. But after finishing only book one of this series, I already know G. Eilsel is going to conquer me too. I’m already making space on my shelves for these babies. 💜
mo’sziv🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠 My heart 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠
I absolutely loved the plot, the characters (both MCs and side characters), and the whole dynamic between them. Grumpy Ronan and his sassy brat Cam are EVERYTHING. Their chemistry is adorable, their banter is hilarious, and I cannot tell you how many times I laughed because these two are absolute drama queens. 😂
The romance? Perfection.
The intimacy is completely off the charts. It’s sexy, it’s hot, and the possessiveness is honestly delicious. Ronan’s dirty talk? HOOOOOOOOOT. 🔥🔥🔥 The fact that Cam is the more experienced one while Ronan is the one bringing that level of intensity made their dynamic even better.
And yes… we need to talk about the three tails. 😏 I was starting to think we wouldn’t get any tail-related fun, but thankfully I was very, very wrong. Let’s just say Ronan’s tails definitely have a purpose. 😈
But beyond the spice (which was incredible), what really made this work for me was that the story isn’t only about being fated mates. It’s also about choice.
They choose each other.
Over and over again.
That is something I always appreciate because fated mates can sometimes feel a little too inevitable, like the characters don’t really have a say. Here, the bond may bring them together, but their love comes from the choices they make. They still have to trust each other, understand each other, and decide that this is what they want.
I loved seeing the vulnerability from both Ronan and Cam, how their histories slowly came together, and how they found each other even before they truly understood what they meant to one another.
Also… I absolutely adore that Ronan was created to fight but hates fighting. There is something so beautiful about a character who was shaped by violence but doesn’t want to become what everyone expects him to be.
And the banter!!! Seriously, I laughed so much. Cam being his dramatic, sassy self and crying over everything and nothing at the same time? 😂 I loved him.
And then there’s Nyx. 💚
No one talk to me because I just need this baby green monster protected, loved, and worshipped forever. I am already desperately waiting for Elas and Nyx’s book.
From the very first updates:
“Love Ronan.
Love Cam.
Love Elas.
Love Boomerang.”
…to the moment Ronan showed exactly how much Cam meant to him, this book completely pulled me in.
A fantastic start to a series I already know I’m going to love. 💜
It was inevitable that I would compare this to Lily Mayne’s Monstrous series. Let’s be honest, those monsters stole a piece of my heart. The physical characteristics, the way every single one felt unique and truly different, was so innovative and one of the things that made that series so special to me.
The stories have some similarities, although Mate’s Mark definitely focuses much more on the fated mates aspect. And you know what? I loved both stories, just for completely different reasons.
Monstrous was my first monster romance, so it will probably always have that special place in my heart. But after finishing only book one of this series, I already know G. Eilsel is going to conquer me too. I’m already making space on my shelves for these babies. 💜
“But I know this, mo’sziv. This isn’t me leaving. This is not me walking away. I wish I had more time to prove that to you, but I don’t. I can’t stay, not yet. Please believe me when I say I will be back in a few days. I will come for you… and I hope you’re here.” His hand lands on my chin and tilts my face towards his. “I really hope you’re here,” he whispers"
mo’sziv🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠 My heart 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠
I absolutely loved the plot, the characters (both MCs and side characters), and the whole dynamic between them. Grumpy Ronan and his sassy brat Cam are EVERYTHING. Their chemistry is adorable, their banter is hilarious, and I cannot tell you how many times I laughed because these two are absolute drama queens. 😂
The romance? Perfection.
"Soft lips land on mine and everything inside me rearranges. Every vein. Every drop of blood. Every godsdamned synapsis in my brain. It all halts until all that’s left is him. The very roadmap of my being shatters into a million pieces, reforming as the mark on my hand sings its pleasure, my soul screaming with the rightness of his body against mine."
The intimacy is completely off the charts. It’s sexy, it’s hot, and the possessiveness is honestly delicious. Ronan’s dirty talk? HOOOOOOOOOT. 🔥🔥🔥 The fact that Cam is the more experienced one while Ronan is the one bringing that level of intensity made their dynamic even better.
And yes… we need to talk about the three tails. 😏 I was starting to think we wouldn’t get any tail-related fun, but thankfully I was very, very wrong. Let’s just say Ronan’s tails definitely have a purpose. 😈
But beyond the spice (which was incredible), what really made this work for me was that the story isn’t only about being fated mates. It’s also about choice.
They choose each other.
Over and over again.
“A quiet sob hiccups from my throat as he leans in and presses his lips to the very corner of my mouth. “Your worthiness was never a question. This? Us? This is our inevitability, but you are also my choice. I choose this… choose you. Would choose you a thousand times over. I am sorry if I ever made it seem otherwise.”
That is something I always appreciate because fated mates can sometimes feel a little too inevitable, like the characters don’t really have a say. Here, the bond may bring them together, but their love comes from the choices they make. They still have to trust each other, understand each other, and decide that this is what they want.
I loved seeing the vulnerability from both Ronan and Cam, how their histories slowly came together, and how they found each other even before they truly understood what they meant to one another.
Also… I absolutely adore that Ronan was created to fight but hates fighting. There is something so beautiful about a character who was shaped by violence but doesn’t want to become what everyone expects him to be.
💜He’s more monstrous than I’ve ever seen him. Terrifying and breathtaking, wicked and beautiful. Mine. For a moment that stretches into an eternal second, his eyes search mine. They dig through the clouds in my mind, searching for the answer to the silent question he’s asking. Am I too much?
“You’re perfect,” I whisper, and the slow-motion world that surrounds us speeds to reality in a dizzying blur."
And the banter!!! Seriously, I laughed so much. Cam being his dramatic, sassy self and crying over everything and nothing at the same time? 😂 I loved him.
And then there’s Nyx. 💚
No one talk to me because I just need this baby green monster protected, loved, and worshipped forever. I am already desperately waiting for Elas and Nyx’s book.
From the very first updates:
“Love Ronan.
Love Cam.
Love Elas.
Love Boomerang.”
…to the moment Ronan showed exactly how much Cam meant to him, this book completely pulled me in.
A fantastic start to a series I already know I’m going to love. 💜
May 21, 2026
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
A dystopian setting, monsters merging with the human world, a possessive monster and a lonely human. If you’ve read the Monstrous series, the similarities between the two are pretty glaring, and unfortunately they did take away some of that wow factor I would’ve had without the comparison front and center in my mind.
One thing that was different though, was the Mate mark, being able to recognize your mate after touching them, and it was also one of my favorite things about Ronan. I also liked their dynamic, Cam’s sarcastic comebacks and Ronan’s growly possessiveness.
A sweet romance, a cute puppy, found family, steamy smut, lots of action and protectiveness. BUT, I honestly stopped caring about these two once Nyx was introduced, because I immediately fell in love and now want his book and nothing else. Sorry Ronan and Cam, but he’s just so adorable and broken and I want him.
Did I enjoy this more than Soul Eater? No, but it was still a fun monster romance and I’m curious to see more of these characters and their HEAs.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Human vs monster
- Fated mates
- Violence & death
- Gore
- Parental death (past)
- Kidnapping/imprisonment
- Attempted SA
- Anxiety & abandonment issues
- Size difference
- ‘Touch him you die’/possessiveness
- Virgin MC
- Vers MCs (one switch scene)
- Shower sex
- Intergluteal frotting
- Rimming
- Just the tip
- Tail play
- Knotting
- Breeding kink
“You have to be a pretty fucking stupid human to not realize how much I want you.” “You can’t call me names while you say sweet things.”
A dystopian setting, monsters merging with the human world, a possessive monster and a lonely human. If you’ve read the Monstrous series, the similarities between the two are pretty glaring, and unfortunately they did take away some of that wow factor I would’ve had without the comparison front and center in my mind.
“The mark could disappear off my skin, the Fates could all go to hell, and I would still want you.”
One thing that was different though, was the Mate mark, being able to recognize your mate after touching them, and it was also one of my favorite things about Ronan. I also liked their dynamic, Cam’s sarcastic comebacks and Ronan’s growly possessiveness.
“But I’m broken.” My cracked words are so quiet, they’re barely more than a breath. His fingernails drag against my scalp and make me shiver as he presses another gentle kiss to my lips. “Then I’ll hold you together until you’re not.”
A sweet romance, a cute puppy, found family, steamy smut, lots of action and protectiveness. BUT, I honestly stopped caring about these two once Nyx was introduced, because I immediately fell in love and now want his book and nothing else. Sorry Ronan and Cam, but he’s just so adorable and broken and I want him.
“This? Us? This is our inevitability, but you are also my choice. I choose this… choose you. Would choose you a thousand times over.”
Did I enjoy this more than Soul Eater? No, but it was still a fun monster romance and I’m curious to see more of these characters and their HEAs.
“I was alone for a long time, Ro.” “Yeah,” he mutters, dropping a kiss on my temple and pushing his nose into my hair, hugging me against him.
“But you’re not alone anymore.”
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Human vs monster
- Fated mates
- Violence & death
- Gore
- Parental death (past)
- Kidnapping/imprisonment
- Attempted SA
- Anxiety & abandonment issues
- Size difference
- ‘Touch him you die’/possessiveness
- Virgin MC
- Vers MCs (one switch scene)
- Shower sex
- Intergluteal frotting
- Rimming
- Just the tip
- Tail play
- Knotting
- Breeding kink
March 11, 2025
Okay I wanted to adore this one, and there were some things I loved, but some things that I felt could have been improved upon.
I want to start by saying that this book is incredibly similar to Lily Mayne’s monstrous series. Now that’s not a bad thing, and Lily herself has posted about this book, so it’s not a case of plagiarism or anything (the two world are juuuust about different enough to avoid that) but I do think that it’s risky when writing something so similar… because as much as I enjoyed this, the whole time I was thinking ‘Lily did it better’.
The story follows human Cameron and monster Ronan. Cameron is caught up in a camp raid and is taken hostage. Whilst in captivity, he meets soldier Ronan, and they both realise upon meeting that glowing mate-marks are now showing on their skin. Desperate to save his mate and take him somewhere safe, Ronan breaks Cam out of prison and they begin the anxious journey across the wastelands, to a place where they can be together and safe.
Let’s talk about what I liked:
- The world-building; this was great. Overcrowded cities where humans live, military bases where the monsters rule (in this world the monsters have the upper hand), raider camps, swathes of wasteland. Super engaging!
- The action scenes were good and I felt drawn in; blood and guts galore!
- The sex. I’m an absolute h0e for monster smut and this was pretty decent monster smut 😌
- The fated mates aspect was cool and interesting and I wanted to know more…
Stuff I struggled with:
- Unclear POV; a lot of the time I had literally no idea who was talking and I had to go back and check. Both of them have this sarky, flippant way of talking that just blurs after a while.
- Characterisation; Ronan especially bothered me, as his ‘monsterness’ often seemed forgotten about. When talking to his friend, he refers to himself as a man, but when talking to Cam, he says ‘I’m not a man’. Also he refers to himself as a monster, and also as having an inner monster… whilst Cameron tries to reassure him that he isn’t a monster? I just feel like the author sometimes forgot that Ronan was meant to be ‘other’ and he comes across as too human.
- Backstory; I wanted to know more about the magical(??) fated mates bond, but we barely got anything… I assume this is a plot line for a later book.
I also feel that any book, especially LGBTQ+, that is released in 2025 that has the unironic phrase ‘I almost cried and lost my man card’ deserves to lose at least half a star. Come on.
All in all a decent read but I ended up with a lot of questions that I would have liked answered (significance of mate marks, more info about magic(?!), more info about Ronan’s past, more info about why the worlds collided, more info about who the mysterious Fates are…) and whilst I realise many of these answers may come in later books, it’s left me feeling a bit lost. Who knows, maybe I’ll read this again after context from future books and absolutely love it? (Which happened to me with Soul Eater, so it can happen!)
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book via booksirens 💕
I want to start by saying that this book is incredibly similar to Lily Mayne’s monstrous series. Now that’s not a bad thing, and Lily herself has posted about this book, so it’s not a case of plagiarism or anything (the two world are juuuust about different enough to avoid that) but I do think that it’s risky when writing something so similar… because as much as I enjoyed this, the whole time I was thinking ‘Lily did it better’.
The story follows human Cameron and monster Ronan. Cameron is caught up in a camp raid and is taken hostage. Whilst in captivity, he meets soldier Ronan, and they both realise upon meeting that glowing mate-marks are now showing on their skin. Desperate to save his mate and take him somewhere safe, Ronan breaks Cam out of prison and they begin the anxious journey across the wastelands, to a place where they can be together and safe.
Let’s talk about what I liked:
- The world-building; this was great. Overcrowded cities where humans live, military bases where the monsters rule (in this world the monsters have the upper hand), raider camps, swathes of wasteland. Super engaging!
- The action scenes were good and I felt drawn in; blood and guts galore!
- The sex. I’m an absolute h0e for monster smut and this was pretty decent monster smut 😌
- The fated mates aspect was cool and interesting and I wanted to know more…
Stuff I struggled with:
- Unclear POV; a lot of the time I had literally no idea who was talking and I had to go back and check. Both of them have this sarky, flippant way of talking that just blurs after a while.
- Characterisation; Ronan especially bothered me, as his ‘monsterness’ often seemed forgotten about. When talking to his friend, he refers to himself as a man, but when talking to Cam, he says ‘I’m not a man’. Also he refers to himself as a monster, and also as having an inner monster… whilst Cameron tries to reassure him that he isn’t a monster? I just feel like the author sometimes forgot that Ronan was meant to be ‘other’ and he comes across as too human.
- Backstory; I wanted to know more about the magical(??) fated mates bond, but we barely got anything… I assume this is a plot line for a later book.
I also feel that any book, especially LGBTQ+, that is released in 2025 that has the unironic phrase ‘I almost cried and lost my man card’ deserves to lose at least half a star. Come on.
All in all a decent read but I ended up with a lot of questions that I would have liked answered (significance of mate marks, more info about magic(?!), more info about Ronan’s past, more info about why the worlds collided, more info about who the mysterious Fates are…) and whilst I realise many of these answers may come in later books, it’s left me feeling a bit lost. Who knows, maybe I’ll read this again after context from future books and absolutely love it? (Which happened to me with Soul Eater, so it can happen!)
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book via booksirens 💕
March 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Dystopian romance with a side of 'wft is going on', a snarky human paired with a serious protective monster, and a dog.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It's fated mates, which I love, and, for a dystopian book, it was quite low angst. There are a few quite tense moments, but it all turns out for the best.
Cameron is a snarky sassy human who has been alone and fending for himself in a collapsed world controlled by monsters. Ronan is a high ranking monster soldier who discovers his mate amongst a few rebels that has just come to his base. Once they acknowledge what is happening with them, they escape the base and slowly develop true feelings. Their interactions are pure gold and their romance is so sweet.
They learn that there's something else going on with other fated mates, and the monsters and humans, which isn't solved in this book, but there's enough mystery to make me want to read the next books.
Oh, and self lubricating dongs are a plus in a dystopian world.
I really loved this romance. Can't wait for more!
Dystopian romance with a side of 'wft is going on', a snarky human paired with a serious protective monster, and a dog.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It's fated mates, which I love, and, for a dystopian book, it was quite low angst. There are a few quite tense moments, but it all turns out for the best.
Cameron is a snarky sassy human who has been alone and fending for himself in a collapsed world controlled by monsters. Ronan is a high ranking monster soldier who discovers his mate amongst a few rebels that has just come to his base. Once they acknowledge what is happening with them, they escape the base and slowly develop true feelings. Their interactions are pure gold and their romance is so sweet.
They learn that there's something else going on with other fated mates, and the monsters and humans, which isn't solved in this book, but there's enough mystery to make me want to read the next books.
Oh, and self lubricating dongs are a plus in a dystopian world.
I really loved this romance. Can't wait for more!
May 27, 2025
This was, hands down, one of the best books I have read so far this year. I was laughing, I was swooning, I was fanning myself, all the things. I LOVED this book. This is one of those buy the paper back kind of books for me.
Now to the juice. So basically long ago the veil between the monster world and the human world was torn apart. The monsters stormed the human world and took it by force. It was a massacre. The fates were so angry with what the monsters had done that they closed the veil to where the monsters could not return to their home. They now are in control of the human world. In some sort of truce, the fates made it where every monster has a fated human mate, but the only way for them to find out is to touch them. Once a monster and a human touch (if they are fated mates), a glowing mark will appear where they touch. Such an interesting introduction!!! I was hooked from page one.
Our main characters here are Ronan (monster) and Cameron (human). Cameron gets accidentally kidnapped/arrested by the monsters with a bunch of other humans. It’s this whole thing, poor cameron. Anyway, after Ronan gets done putting all the humans into the cells, he notices that his palm is glowing. The mate mark. The issues here are this:
1. He is the first monster with this mark since the fates gave that decree. He does not know what to do about it.
2. He probably shouldn’t tell anyone (else) His bestie knows. But he doesn’t know how others would react.
3. He just put many people in cells. He doesn’t know which human is his mate, or where exactly he touched them.
So Ronan and his bestie go into the cells in search of a human with a glowing arm? neck? back? shoulder? It was such a funny moment. I loved it. Cameron is such a character.
Anyway Ronan and Cameron find each other. They realize what they are to each other. They realize what they mean to each other. And then Ronan kills a bunch of people and goes AWOL from the military and runs off into the sunset with his mate. The end.
Okay yeah I wish. It’s so wild. I felt like I had everything clenched until I got to the end of the book. But really the majority of the story is them getting to know each other while they’re hiding from the military monsters. Soooooo good.
The spice in this?? SPICYYYYY. So freaking good. We also have some “get your hands off my mate” moments. Also throw in some “touch him and die” moments. This author reached into my brain, saw all my book desires, and wrote it. I LOVE HER.
I am sooooooooo ready for the rest of the books in this series. The author left some mild cliffhangers, but it’ll make for an excellent series. This girl has a massive brain, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with.
Now to the juice. So basically long ago the veil between the monster world and the human world was torn apart. The monsters stormed the human world and took it by force. It was a massacre. The fates were so angry with what the monsters had done that they closed the veil to where the monsters could not return to their home. They now are in control of the human world. In some sort of truce, the fates made it where every monster has a fated human mate, but the only way for them to find out is to touch them. Once a monster and a human touch (if they are fated mates), a glowing mark will appear where they touch. Such an interesting introduction!!! I was hooked from page one.
Our main characters here are Ronan (monster) and Cameron (human). Cameron gets accidentally kidnapped/arrested by the monsters with a bunch of other humans. It’s this whole thing, poor cameron. Anyway, after Ronan gets done putting all the humans into the cells, he notices that his palm is glowing. The mate mark. The issues here are this:
1. He is the first monster with this mark since the fates gave that decree. He does not know what to do about it.
2. He probably shouldn’t tell anyone (else) His bestie knows. But he doesn’t know how others would react.
3. He just put many people in cells. He doesn’t know which human is his mate, or where exactly he touched them.
So Ronan and his bestie go into the cells in search of a human with a glowing arm? neck? back? shoulder? It was such a funny moment. I loved it. Cameron is such a character.
Anyway Ronan and Cameron find each other. They realize what they are to each other. They realize what they mean to each other. And then Ronan kills a bunch of people and goes AWOL from the military and runs off into the sunset with his mate. The end.
Okay yeah I wish. It’s so wild. I felt like I had everything clenched until I got to the end of the book. But really the majority of the story is them getting to know each other while they’re hiding from the military monsters. Soooooo good.
The spice in this?? SPICYYYYY. So freaking good. We also have some “get your hands off my mate” moments. Also throw in some “touch him and die” moments. This author reached into my brain, saw all my book desires, and wrote it. I LOVE HER.
I am sooooooooo ready for the rest of the books in this series. The author left some mild cliffhangers, but it’ll make for an excellent series. This girl has a massive brain, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with.
April 28, 2025
sharpen your pitchforks because i’m about to piss off every single one of you.
this is what soul eater pretends to be.
and by that i mean an amazing book, but also a good monster romance. compelling world building. great characters. wonderful love story. interesting over-arching plot. it also lacks the boredom to put you to sleep, which is something i personally enjoy.
i genuinely can’t wait for the next one
this is what soul eater pretends to be.
and by that i mean an amazing book, but also a good monster romance. compelling world building. great characters. wonderful love story. interesting over-arching plot. it also lacks the boredom to put you to sleep, which is something i personally enjoy.
i genuinely can’t wait for the next one
July 17, 2026
I had a really good time listening to this book. Is silly and cute in equal measure. It gave me Monstrous by Lily Mayne vibes but in the best way. Like, I could maybe see the similarities, but there were also enough unique factors to make the story interesting and different.
I’ll probably continue the series; this book has a sort of open ending and enough glimpses of the world-building that I’m intrigued to know what'll happen next.
I’ll probably continue the series; this book has a sort of open ending and enough glimpses of the world-building that I’m intrigued to know what'll happen next.
July 21, 2026
AS SOON AS I STARTED THIS BOOK… I KNEW.
You know when you’re only a couple of chapters in and you can already tell you’re about to become obsessed?
That was me with Ronan.
This is book one in the Mate’s Mark series, a dystopian MM monster romance where monsters conquered Earth nearly a century ago. Humanity is barely surviving, the world is falling apart, and a prophecy says a human and a monster fated mate could save it all.
I was hooked immediately. The atmosphere, the world-building, the action, the characters… everything just clicked.
One thing I especially loved is that, even though this is a fated mates romance, destiny doesn’t magically solve everything. Ronan and Cameron still have to earn each other’s trust. They get frustrated, they argue, they misunderstand each other, and honestly, I loved that. It made their relationship feel real instead of insta-perfect.
Ronan is this grumpy, intimidating monster warrior who’s secretly the biggest softie, while Cameron is stubborn, sarcastic, and determined to survive no matter what. Their banter had me smiling the entire time.
Now…
Is this insta-love?
Absolutely.
Do I care?
Not even a little.
Because the emotional journey still feels earned.
And the spice…
Virgin MC.
Self-lubricating appendages.
Creative monster anatomy.
Possessive “You’re MINE” moments
Need I say more?
The sexy scenes were HOT. They had me completely engaged and, at times, wonderfully uncomfortable in the best possible way. Monster romance readers… you’re going to eat this up.
I also have to mention the audiobook because the narration was fantastic. It pulled me into the story from the very beginning and made both the emotional moments and the chemistry hit even harder.
By the end of this book I’d already fallen in love with at least four side characters, and I desperately need all of their books.
Fantastic world-building, lovable characters, incredible chemistry, creative spice, and a series I already know I’m going to be obsessed with.
READ IT. READ IT. READ IT.
You know when you’re only a couple of chapters in and you can already tell you’re about to become obsessed?
That was me with Ronan.
This is book one in the Mate’s Mark series, a dystopian MM monster romance where monsters conquered Earth nearly a century ago. Humanity is barely surviving, the world is falling apart, and a prophecy says a human and a monster fated mate could save it all.
I was hooked immediately. The atmosphere, the world-building, the action, the characters… everything just clicked.
One thing I especially loved is that, even though this is a fated mates romance, destiny doesn’t magically solve everything. Ronan and Cameron still have to earn each other’s trust. They get frustrated, they argue, they misunderstand each other, and honestly, I loved that. It made their relationship feel real instead of insta-perfect.
Ronan is this grumpy, intimidating monster warrior who’s secretly the biggest softie, while Cameron is stubborn, sarcastic, and determined to survive no matter what. Their banter had me smiling the entire time.
Now…
Is this insta-love?
Absolutely.
Do I care?
Not even a little.
Because the emotional journey still feels earned.
And the spice…
Virgin MC.
Self-lubricating appendages.
Creative monster anatomy.
Possessive “You’re MINE” moments
Need I say more?
The sexy scenes were HOT. They had me completely engaged and, at times, wonderfully uncomfortable in the best possible way. Monster romance readers… you’re going to eat this up.
I also have to mention the audiobook because the narration was fantastic. It pulled me into the story from the very beginning and made both the emotional moments and the chemistry hit even harder.
By the end of this book I’d already fallen in love with at least four side characters, and I desperately need all of their books.
Fantastic world-building, lovable characters, incredible chemistry, creative spice, and a series I already know I’m going to be obsessed with.
READ IT. READ IT. READ IT.
July 14, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Audiobook 🎧
Narrators: Zachary Zaba & Declan Winters
😈 Post Apocalyptic
😈 Monsters x Human
😈 Fated Mates
😈 Possessive Monster
😈 Virgin MC
😈😈If you liked Soul Eater by Lily Mayne, you’ll like this 😈😈
Ronan is a 100+ year old soldier/monster, that is aware about the prophecy by the fates that states, that for every monster there is a human mate, which will bring back balance to their new world after the veil dropped.
Cameron is a 20 something year old human drifter, that has been living off the land, and hiding with his dog Boomerang ever since his community was murdered by the military/monsters.
Ronan has a chance encounter with Cameron when he was captured with a bunch of rebels, and an incidental contact makes the fated mark flare to life. After searching through the prisoners, Ronan finds his mate with the help of his mark and the pair immediately feel an attachment/bond.
Cameron’s character is smart mouthed and funny for the most part, but can be insecure a times.
Ronan is a big, beautiful monster with a heart of gold that will do anything for his human.
HFN 🖤
Now to start book 2
Elas
Audiobook 🎧
Narrators: Zachary Zaba & Declan Winters
😈 Post Apocalyptic
😈 Monsters x Human
😈 Fated Mates
😈 Possessive Monster
😈 Virgin MC
😈😈If you liked Soul Eater by Lily Mayne, you’ll like this 😈😈
Ronan is a 100+ year old soldier/monster, that is aware about the prophecy by the fates that states, that for every monster there is a human mate, which will bring back balance to their new world after the veil dropped.
Cameron is a 20 something year old human drifter, that has been living off the land, and hiding with his dog Boomerang ever since his community was murdered by the military/monsters.
Ronan has a chance encounter with Cameron when he was captured with a bunch of rebels, and an incidental contact makes the fated mark flare to life. After searching through the prisoners, Ronan finds his mate with the help of his mark and the pair immediately feel an attachment/bond.
Cameron’s character is smart mouthed and funny for the most part, but can be insecure a times.
Ronan is a big, beautiful monster with a heart of gold that will do anything for his human.
HFN 🖤
Now to start book 2
Elas
August 4, 2026
This is one of those WHY THE HELL HAVEN’T I READ THIS SOONER books 🫠 when you are both absolutely in love with the book and frustrated with yourself for putting it off for too long 🤬
To all of you LM’s Monstrous fans, this one is really is worth it ❣️
I loved everything about this, EVERYTHING.
Yeah, yeah, blame me for getting emotional over fated mates! but honestly, that's not even why I loved this book (not entirely anyway)
The plot is what drove me in. The world felt incredibly immersive, the stakes were real, every character came onto the page with a very distinct personality. but let me just say - CAMERON 🫠
“Stubborn human can’t decide whether he wants affection or is annoyed by it.
“What are you doing?” he demands, and I laugh at the irritation in his voice.
My prickly little porcupine, with his quills out and ready for a fight.”
Pretty little porcupine is exactly him! One of the brattiest brats I’ve read, his sarcasm never diminishes a tiny bit, even in the face of a true danger. He made me smile far too many times and I loved his sharp tongue and banter immediately 🤍
“Cam, look at me.”
“No, thanks, I’m busy right now wallowing in my mortification. Try again later.”
And then we have Ronan 💜 He is basically our weakness personified - a terrifying killing machine with the softest heart imaginable. Everything about him is love, patience, and acceptance 🥹
“You don’t need to be better, mo’sziv. I don’t want you to change… I just want you.”
“But I’m broken.”
“Then I’ll hold you together until you’re not.”
The most important thing is that while we are in a fated mates setting, it was ALWAYS about the choice with these two. They built a relationship instead of simply giving in to instinct, and I absolutely adored that 🖤
He’s more monstrous than I’ve ever seen him.
Terrifying and breathtaking, wicked and beautiful.
Mine.
But the best thing is that the story is only getting started. Some of those introductions!! 👀
I'm ridiculously happy, similar to how I felt diving from the Soul Eater to Edin, one book a day, because the second I'm done with my ARCs, I'm getting straight into Elas's book 🖤
To all of you LM’s Monstrous fans, this one is really is worth it ❣️
I loved everything about this, EVERYTHING.
Yeah, yeah, blame me for getting emotional over fated mates! but honestly, that's not even why I loved this book (not entirely anyway)
The plot is what drove me in. The world felt incredibly immersive, the stakes were real, every character came onto the page with a very distinct personality. but let me just say - CAMERON 🫠
“Stubborn human can’t decide whether he wants affection or is annoyed by it.
“What are you doing?” he demands, and I laugh at the irritation in his voice.
My prickly little porcupine, with his quills out and ready for a fight.”
Pretty little porcupine is exactly him! One of the brattiest brats I’ve read, his sarcasm never diminishes a tiny bit, even in the face of a true danger. He made me smile far too many times and I loved his sharp tongue and banter immediately 🤍
“Cam, look at me.”
“No, thanks, I’m busy right now wallowing in my mortification. Try again later.”
And then we have Ronan 💜 He is basically our weakness personified - a terrifying killing machine with the softest heart imaginable. Everything about him is love, patience, and acceptance 🥹
“You don’t need to be better, mo’sziv. I don’t want you to change… I just want you.”
“But I’m broken.”
“Then I’ll hold you together until you’re not.”
The most important thing is that while we are in a fated mates setting, it was ALWAYS about the choice with these two. They built a relationship instead of simply giving in to instinct, and I absolutely adored that 🖤
He’s more monstrous than I’ve ever seen him.
Terrifying and breathtaking, wicked and beautiful.
Mine.
But the best thing is that the story is only getting started. Some of those introductions!! 👀
I'm ridiculously happy, similar to how I felt diving from the Soul Eater to Edin, one book a day, because the second I'm done with my ARCs, I'm getting straight into Elas's book 🖤
August 1, 2026
Big purple monster dude with cute little teefers and three tails falls in love with human mate???? Yep. I was addicted to this from page one. And the ending has me SO CURIOUS as to how the rest of the series is going to go. I'm excited!!! :D
November 16, 2025
audiobook reread finished 16.11.2025
~ ranting: 5 ☆
~ spice: 3 🌶
arc review
It's been a while since I truly enjoyed a book and when I tell you I totally devoured this story oh boy I'm not even joking... I'm completely obsessed with these characters now!!
This book follows Ronan (a giant, lovable monster with a heart of gold) and Cameron (adorable on the outside but armed with deadly sarcasm that could take you out in two seconds), as they navigate through their journey of being mates in the wastelands.
Their relationship development was truly captivating to read, it was my first book by the author, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. When I tell you it had the right amount of plot and the perfect amount of spice, I mean it.
I seriously can't wait for the next character's books, Elas and Nyx I see you!
I totally recommend this book for the fans of Lily Mayne and Mell R. Bright, trust me on this.
“Your worthiness was never a question. This? Us? This is our inevitability, but you are also my choice. I choose this… choose you. Would choose you a thousand times over.”
~ ranting: 5 ☆
~ spice: 3 🌶
arc review
It's been a while since I truly enjoyed a book and when I tell you I totally devoured this story oh boy I'm not even joking... I'm completely obsessed with these characters now!!
This book follows Ronan (a giant, lovable monster with a heart of gold) and Cameron (adorable on the outside but armed with deadly sarcasm that could take you out in two seconds), as they navigate through their journey of being mates in the wastelands.
Their relationship development was truly captivating to read, it was my first book by the author, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. When I tell you it had the right amount of plot and the perfect amount of spice, I mean it.
I seriously can't wait for the next character's books, Elas and Nyx I see you!
I totally recommend this book for the fans of Lily Mayne and Mell R. Bright, trust me on this.
“Your worthiness was never a question. This? Us? This is our inevitability, but you are also my choice. I choose this… choose you. Would choose you a thousand times over.”
July 23, 2026
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Cameron and Ronan
Okay so I just love sweet vulnerable monsters with grumpy exteriors and a penchant for unaliving people.
Was this a little similar to Soul Eater? Yes, but also drastically different.
It felt a little longer than it needed to be and sort of dragged in a few spots. But overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait to see where the rest of the series goes. I have a few characters I'm really hoping we get to see their romances.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Cameron and Ronan
Okay so I just love sweet vulnerable monsters with grumpy exteriors and a penchant for unaliving people.
Was this a little similar to Soul Eater? Yes, but also drastically different.
It felt a little longer than it needed to be and sort of dragged in a few spots. But overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait to see where the rest of the series goes. I have a few characters I'm really hoping we get to see their romances.
August 20, 2025
“My world…my home… is nothing more than a memory, and we have no one to blame but ourseves.”
Tenía mis dudas porque pensaba que iba a ser una copia de otros libros que he leído. Justamente empezaba de esta forma y el argumento daba la sensación que iba por el mismo camino.”
Sin embargo, a pesar de que tiene su parecido en ciertas partes, hay que destacar que el libro está bastante bien escrito y la autora se lo ha currado. No sé si será su primera novela publicada, pero me quito el sombrero.
Por otro lado, si que no voy a negar que se me ha hecho un poco cuesta arriba porque sentía que no avanzaba la historia.
Seguramente lea el segundo libro.
Tenía mis dudas porque pensaba que iba a ser una copia de otros libros que he leído. Justamente empezaba de esta forma y el argumento daba la sensación que iba por el mismo camino.”
Sin embargo, a pesar de que tiene su parecido en ciertas partes, hay que destacar que el libro está bastante bien escrito y la autora se lo ha currado. No sé si será su primera novela publicada, pero me quito el sombrero.
Por otro lado, si que no voy a negar que se me ha hecho un poco cuesta arriba porque sentía que no avanzaba la historia.
Seguramente lea el segundo libro.
July 23, 2025
OK, I have officially found the King of Snark. I sometimes say that a character is like a feral kitten - Cameron is like a feral kitten that you are tying to give a bath too. That man is FEISTY! That attitude made for a lot of fun banter though, and thank god that Ronan is super patient (mostly), because otherwise he would have bonked him over the head very early on. I really enjoyed the snark though, because its easy to see why he is the was he is, and I really felt the emotions behind it.
This was such a fun read. As we all know, because I say it every time, I love Post Apocalyptic / Dystopian romance. I love the adventure you get with these kind of stories, and then add fated mates and Monsters - yes please! I thought this was a great beginning to what I think is gonna be a fantastic series.
MM Dystopian
Monster/Human
Fated Mates
Touch Him & 💀
Grumpy x Grumpy
King of Snark
Sweet Monster
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
This was such a fun read. As we all know, because I say it every time, I love Post Apocalyptic / Dystopian romance. I love the adventure you get with these kind of stories, and then add fated mates and Monsters - yes please! I thought this was a great beginning to what I think is gonna be a fantastic series.
MM Dystopian
Monster/Human
Fated Mates
Touch Him & 💀
Grumpy x Grumpy
King of Snark
Sweet Monster
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
December 22, 2025
3⭐️ This was okay. I liked some parts of it—mostly the first half as they work out their relationship. But ultimately, I was bored because not enough happens after the halfway mark.
They’re on the run together from monsters who want them dead for defecting but then they hole up in an abandoned house and just have sex for most of the rest of the book. I needed more action, danger, and plot. I needed more about the fated mates prophecy.
A lot just felt too cliche.
This might be fine for readers new to fantasy romance but if you’ve read a lot, nothing new here.
They’re on the run together from monsters who want them dead for defecting but then they hole up in an abandoned house and just have sex for most of the rest of the book. I needed more action, danger, and plot. I needed more about the fated mates prophecy.
A lot just felt too cliche.
This might be fine for readers new to fantasy romance but if you’ve read a lot, nothing new here.
May 27, 2026
I was tempted to DNF, even halfway through. I ended up skimming through some bits instead. And I dunno... I was a little interested in what's going on, especially when they introduced poor little Nyx because I'm a sucker for broken little waifs, but I don't think it's enough for me to read more of the series. I just really wasn't feeling it.
July 30, 2026
This was so good I loved it. But I’m mostly so excited for the next couple of books!!
March 16, 2025
This was my first book of G Eilsel’s and I absolutely loved it. While it has the similar monster apocalypse that Lily Mayne Monstrous series has this one is drastically different. Cameron is so very insecure which can come across as childish and immature in the ways he handles his emotions but his sass and snarkiness more than make up for the few instances that he acted out. Ronan is possessive, protective, but so very very sweet. I really enjoyed the fated mates side of this story and I loved that (for me at least) I can’t say for sure where I know the overarching plot line is heading. This is definitely a top read of mine and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the story goes. Looking forward to Elsa’s storyline and also to hopefully get more information on poor Nyx.
June 27, 2025
DNF ~44%
Veeeery similar to Lily Mayne's series, like... too similar. Even if Mayne doesn't care, the concepts felt SO copypaste that it was like I'd already read this book. And since I didn't particularly love Mayne's take, it wasn't exactly a good thing for me, but some may enjoy. So here we also have bland, watered-down monsters that give me absolutely nothing I want from that trope. The writing (especially at the start) was so flowery it was difficult to get through a paragraph, and the author really dialed the snark/sass on Cameron up to 11, to the point where he was storming and stropping off at the drop of a fucking hat, including during an escape from prison where he had to be told multiple times to shut the fuck up. It was so unbelievably annoying and frankly I cannot believe this character genuinely would have survived on his own for so long given his mouth. The whole thing just fucking annoyed me.
Veeeery similar to Lily Mayne's series, like... too similar. Even if Mayne doesn't care, the concepts felt SO copypaste that it was like I'd already read this book. And since I didn't particularly love Mayne's take, it wasn't exactly a good thing for me, but some may enjoy. So here we also have bland, watered-down monsters that give me absolutely nothing I want from that trope. The writing (especially at the start) was so flowery it was difficult to get through a paragraph, and the author really dialed the snark/sass on Cameron up to 11, to the point where he was storming and stropping off at the drop of a fucking hat, including during an escape from prison where he had to be told multiple times to shut the fuck up. It was so unbelievably annoying and frankly I cannot believe this character genuinely would have survived on his own for so long given his mouth. The whole thing just fucking annoyed me.
March 26, 2025
Ronan by G. Eilsel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 monstrous stars
📚 Mates Mark Series: Book 1 (the first of seven planned books in the series).
😍 My first book by G. Eilsel
⬆️ Ebook ARC
😏 Adult MM Dystopian Monster Romance
📖 Captivating & Unputdownable Book
🗡️ Action, Tension, & Spice 🌶
💞 Fated Mates (w/ Reluctance) & Mystery 🔎
💀 Monster Rule x Human Resistance ✊️
🔀 Dual First-Person POV
🌎 Incredible World-Building & Unique Hot Monsters 🔥💜
😈 Broody Militar Officer x Feisty Stubborn Rogue Human 😤
👑 Drama Queen Monster x Prickly Little Porcupine Human 🦔
🔥 Monster a Bit of a Pyro & 🍥 Secret Cinnamon Roll
👿 Touch Him And ☠️
😏 Snark as Love Language 🤌
😈 Morally Gray Couple
😏 Age-gap & Size Difference (I looooove that last one 🥵)
🍒 First Time (Losing His V-Card)
❤️🔥 Slow Burn-ish w/ Plenty of spice (this one’s explicit, be warned!🗯🤌)
😏🗯 Dirty Talk & Knotting
🔥 Spicy Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
📚 🎒👓👉 Cameron:
🪨 Cameron is a human, a lone survivor and a rogue, 26 years old, with bright blue eyes framed by glasses (adorable), messy brown hair, tall and lanky, a tiny waist, and golden skin that's sun-weathered and spotted with dark freckles. He's intelligent and has snark for days.
🪨 Oh, and he has an adorable dog named Boomerang (the best sidekick ever...) 🐕
🪨 Sarcastic, stubborn, and used to surviving against the odds, he doesn’t trust monsters... let alone humans, not after everything they’ve done...
🪨 But Ronan? Ronan changes everything. When Ronan finds him, his life shifts completely. Not that he doesn’t still have to fight to survive in the wasteland, but now, he and Boomerang won’t have to do it alone anymore… thanks to his protector (not that he’d ever admit it). 🤭
💜🪐🪖🗡 👉 Ronan:
⚔️ He's an Anunian, a species from another planet. He has mostly humanoid features—purple skin, long raven-black hair, and dark eyes (that miss nothing).
🤭 Ronan According to Cameron: Tiny teefers, big attitude, Drama Queen hair, emo boy broody , cute little tails, juicy booty, so so much leather.
⚔️ He comes from a race of warriors, is built like a beast, and fights like a demon, and holds a high-ranking military position.
⚔️ He's one of many warriors who led the invasion, for years, he’s been nothing but a weapon and now, after decades of fighting and destruction, he suddenly has the mark. His fated mate is out there. His human... and he has to find him.
⚠️ Content Warnings:
⚠️ Medium Angst
😢🤧 Tears & Heartbreak
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Use of Weapons, Extreme violence & On-Page Deaths
⚠️ Blood, Gore & War Crimes
⚠️ Kidnapping & Imprisonment
⚠️ Attempted SA (stopped before it escalates)
⚠️ Death of parents (in past, detailed discussions on page)
⚠️ Trauma, Abandonment Issues & Deep Emotional Scars
👉 Found Family
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters👏👏👏
😍 Love The Ending
😍 HEA & HFN for the Storyline
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story:
🟣 Earth is a wasteland. Monsters rule. Humans either live under their control or scavenge to survive. Resources are scarce, the climate is a disaster, and tensions between humans and monsters are at an all-time high. My fave scenario for an apocalypse.
🟣 This story is incredibly well-written, with action, romance, and just the right amount of gorgeous world-building 👌, enough to set up the bigger picture without overwhelming you. Oh, and it even has a map... one of my ultimate weaknesses!
As for the story itself, it paints a vivid dystopian future where Earth is a dangerous, rebellion-fueled wasteland full of secrets… plus plenty of banter, bickering, and undeniable chemistry between the MCs. And the SC? So lovable that I just want to hug them all.
🟣 While this book gives Ronan and Cam an HEA ending, the overall storyline is HFN, as big questions remain unanswered, with a mild cliffhanger leading into the next book, and I can't wait to get my hands on it!
🟣 Cameron’s dynamic with Ronan is full of tension, banter, and that irresistible fated mates pull. Ronan is serious and disciplined, while Cam is sarcastic and stubborn. And Ronan’s care for Cameron? Absolutely precious. (Pretty mate, must protect… Tiny waist—must feed.)
🫠 Ronan doesn’t do soft… except when it comes to Cameron.
🟣 These two are absolute perfection... enemies to reluctant fated mates. The tension? Off the charts. The bickering? Hilarious. The spice? Chef’s kiss. 😘
🚙⛺️ P.S.: One of the many highlights I loved in this book was them being able to travel in a vehicle while searching for food, resources, and shelter. 👌
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
👍I'm definitely going to read this again
If you’re into MM monster romance, fated mates, and a dystopian setting with action and spice, Ronan is a solid and enjoyable start to the series!
💯 I'm looking forward to reading the following books in this Series. I can’t wait!! 🙏
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
StoryGraph Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 monstrous stars
📚 Mates Mark Series: Book 1 (the first of seven planned books in the series).
😍 My first book by G. Eilsel
⬆️ Ebook ARC
😏 Adult MM Dystopian Monster Romance
📖 Captivating & Unputdownable Book
🗡️ Action, Tension, & Spice 🌶
💞 Fated Mates (w/ Reluctance) & Mystery 🔎
💀 Monster Rule x Human Resistance ✊️
🔀 Dual First-Person POV
🌎 Incredible World-Building & Unique Hot Monsters 🔥💜
😈 Broody Militar Officer x Feisty Stubborn Rogue Human 😤
👑 Drama Queen Monster x Prickly Little Porcupine Human 🦔
🔥 Monster a Bit of a Pyro & 🍥 Secret Cinnamon Roll
👿 Touch Him And ☠️
😏 Snark as Love Language 🤌
😈 Morally Gray Couple
😏 Age-gap & Size Difference (I looooove that last one 🥵)
🍒 First Time (Losing His V-Card)
❤️🔥 Slow Burn-ish w/ Plenty of spice (this one’s explicit, be warned!🗯🤌)
😏🗯 Dirty Talk & Knotting
🔥 Spicy Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
📚 🎒👓👉 Cameron:
🪨 Cameron is a human, a lone survivor and a rogue, 26 years old, with bright blue eyes framed by glasses (adorable), messy brown hair, tall and lanky, a tiny waist, and golden skin that's sun-weathered and spotted with dark freckles. He's intelligent and has snark for days.
🪨 Oh, and he has an adorable dog named Boomerang (the best sidekick ever...) 🐕
🪨 Sarcastic, stubborn, and used to surviving against the odds, he doesn’t trust monsters... let alone humans, not after everything they’ve done...
🪨 But Ronan? Ronan changes everything. When Ronan finds him, his life shifts completely. Not that he doesn’t still have to fight to survive in the wasteland, but now, he and Boomerang won’t have to do it alone anymore… thanks to his protector (not that he’d ever admit it). 🤭
💜🪐🪖🗡 👉 Ronan:
⚔️ He's an Anunian, a species from another planet. He has mostly humanoid features—purple skin, long raven-black hair, and dark eyes (that miss nothing).
🤭 Ronan According to Cameron: Tiny teefers, big attitude, Drama Queen hair, emo boy broody , cute little tails, juicy booty, so so much leather.
⚔️ He comes from a race of warriors, is built like a beast, and fights like a demon, and holds a high-ranking military position.
⚔️ He's one of many warriors who led the invasion, for years, he’s been nothing but a weapon and now, after decades of fighting and destruction, he suddenly has the mark. His fated mate is out there. His human... and he has to find him.
⚠️ Content Warnings:
⚠️ Medium Angst
😢🤧 Tears & Heartbreak
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Use of Weapons, Extreme violence & On-Page Deaths
⚠️ Blood, Gore & War Crimes
⚠️ Kidnapping & Imprisonment
⚠️ Attempted SA (stopped before it escalates)
⚠️ Death of parents (in past, detailed discussions on page)
⚠️ Trauma, Abandonment Issues & Deep Emotional Scars
👉 Found Family
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters👏👏👏
😍 Love The Ending
😍 HEA & HFN for the Storyline
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story:
🟣 Earth is a wasteland. Monsters rule. Humans either live under their control or scavenge to survive. Resources are scarce, the climate is a disaster, and tensions between humans and monsters are at an all-time high. My fave scenario for an apocalypse.
🟣 This story is incredibly well-written, with action, romance, and just the right amount of gorgeous world-building 👌, enough to set up the bigger picture without overwhelming you. Oh, and it even has a map... one of my ultimate weaknesses!
As for the story itself, it paints a vivid dystopian future where Earth is a dangerous, rebellion-fueled wasteland full of secrets… plus plenty of banter, bickering, and undeniable chemistry between the MCs. And the SC? So lovable that I just want to hug them all.
🟣 While this book gives Ronan and Cam an HEA ending, the overall storyline is HFN, as big questions remain unanswered, with a mild cliffhanger leading into the next book, and I can't wait to get my hands on it!
🟣 Cameron’s dynamic with Ronan is full of tension, banter, and that irresistible fated mates pull. Ronan is serious and disciplined, while Cam is sarcastic and stubborn. And Ronan’s care for Cameron? Absolutely precious. (Pretty mate, must protect… Tiny waist—must feed.)
🫠 Ronan doesn’t do soft… except when it comes to Cameron.
🟣 These two are absolute perfection... enemies to reluctant fated mates. The tension? Off the charts. The bickering? Hilarious. The spice? Chef’s kiss. 😘
🚙⛺️ P.S.: One of the many highlights I loved in this book was them being able to travel in a vehicle while searching for food, resources, and shelter. 👌
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
■ Stubborn human can’t decide whether he wants affection or is annoyed by it.
“What are you doing?” he demands, and I laugh at the irritation in his voice. My prickly little porcupine, with his quills out and ready for a fight.
■ “Humans should come with warning labels and care instructions,” I mutter as I trail behind him.
“What was that?”
“Absolutely nothing.” I don’t miss the glare he throws at me before marching into the house.
👍I'm definitely going to read this again
If you’re into MM monster romance, fated mates, and a dystopian setting with action and spice, Ronan is a solid and enjoyable start to the series!
💯 I'm looking forward to reading the following books in this Series. I can’t wait!! 🙏
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
StoryGraph Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
November 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this one.. post apocalyptic books are a guilty pleasure of mine and just recently got into MM romance thru Lily Mayne and this books is super similar to her Monstrous series.
Ronan is the monster in this book and the action takes place around 80 years after they invaded earth.
Cameron ( all i could think of was Cam from modern family 👀🤷🏻♀️) is the snarky human that turns out its his fated mate. There some prophecy around the mates mark that was thought to be fake but as Ronan found out its not.
There’s some tense moments, some funny ones, some major revelations and some steamy scenes all climaxing on a HFN.
Theres a few thing i didn’t liked tho, the vocabulary the monsters used was just modern slang with lots of modern references that have absolutely no place in a post apocalyptic wasteland 80/100 years after earth as we know it ended.
Cam got on my nerves lots , there’s cute banter and then there's just rudeness which Cam excelled at🙄.
Ronan is the monster in this book and the action takes place around 80 years after they invaded earth.
Cameron ( all i could think of was Cam from modern family 👀🤷🏻♀️) is the snarky human that turns out its his fated mate. There some prophecy around the mates mark that was thought to be fake but as Ronan found out its not.
There’s some tense moments, some funny ones, some major revelations and some steamy scenes all climaxing on a HFN.
Theres a few thing i didn’t liked tho, the vocabulary the monsters used was just modern slang with lots of modern references that have absolutely no place in a post apocalyptic wasteland 80/100 years after earth as we know it ended.
Cam got on my nerves lots , there’s cute banter and then there's just rudeness which Cam excelled at🙄.
March 4, 2026
Dnf 51%
Cameron es insufrible y habla como un adolescente adicto a las redes sociales, lo cual es raro ya que que el nació y crecio en el mundo apocalíptico
Cameron es insufrible y habla como un adolescente adicto a las redes sociales, lo cual es raro ya que que el nació y crecio en el mundo apocalíptico
April 3, 2025
I've read 2 or 3 different series so far that exist in the same sort of niche as Lily Mayne's Monstrous (Post-apocalyptic MM monster romance) and I think that this one is probably my favorite outside of Lily's.
Positives-
The quality of the writing itself was good.
There was clearly a lot of effort and planning put into the plot and worldbuilding.
The characters themselves had believable emotional arcs.
The romance and spicy scenes were great.
Good setup for future books.
Good action and tension.
Negatives-
The two POVs could be a little muddy here and there. I found myself having to double check who was the current POV and who was talking in dialogue because Cameron and Ronan had similar voices at times.
Overall, I think this was a 4.5 star book(rounded up) and I can't wait to read more in this series!!
Positives-
The quality of the writing itself was good.
There was clearly a lot of effort and planning put into the plot and worldbuilding.
The characters themselves had believable emotional arcs.
The romance and spicy scenes were great.
Good setup for future books.
Good action and tension.
Negatives-
The two POVs could be a little muddy here and there. I found myself having to double check who was the current POV and who was talking in dialogue because Cameron and Ronan had similar voices at times.
Overall, I think this was a 4.5 star book(rounded up) and I can't wait to read more in this series!!
Did Not Finish
November 19, 2025DNF @ 40%
I really wanted to like RONAN and it actually started out pretty good; it's very similar in overall world idea to Lily Mayne's Monstrous series but I think this stands on it's own pretty well. I liked the addition of fated mates and I liked that Cameron wasn't scared to stand up for himself. However, that was his only redeeming quality because otherwise he was a snarky asshole and unbearable to read about. He never listened in life or death situations, he was constantly mean to Ronan (though Ronan supposedly liked it) and he completely blew up on Ronan for not giving up everything he knew for someone he just met 2 days ago...someone who made it clear he wasn't interested in having a fated mate by the way. Make it make sense.
I really wanted to like RONAN and it actually started out pretty good; it's very similar in overall world idea to Lily Mayne's Monstrous series but I think this stands on it's own pretty well. I liked the addition of fated mates and I liked that Cameron wasn't scared to stand up for himself. However, that was his only redeeming quality because otherwise he was a snarky asshole and unbearable to read about. He never listened in life or death situations, he was constantly mean to Ronan (though Ronan supposedly liked it) and he completely blew up on Ronan for not giving up everything he knew for someone he just met 2 days ago...someone who made it clear he wasn't interested in having a fated mate by the way. Make it make sense.
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