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Monster Match #1
Scales and Seduction: Monster Match Book One
Discover your perfect Where fangs meet hearts.
All I wanted was to get my phone fixed. Still, when the owner offered me a deal to download his weird dating app for a steep discount on my repair.. I figured, why not? What’s the worst that could happen?
Well…turns out, everything.
The app is a portal to a whole other world, one that’s crawling with monsters. And when I swiped right on Gideon, the hottest, most delicious snake-man I’ve ever seen (seriously, he could coil me up any day), my entire reality changed.
One second, I’m in my apartment. Next, I’m sitting in the middle of the Vale, a hidden town filled with fangs, fins and my incredibly dominant Naga mate. Oh, and did I mention he’s a prince? And engaged? Yeah…that's super fun. I should be running for the hills, but there’s something about Gideon that makes me want to stay—but that comes at a price.
An ancient curse has kept the monster realm and the human realm apart for centuries. Now, the town is under attack, corpses are crawling out of the ground and all signs point to a secret that could change everything. Gideon and I will have to unravel the mystery before it’s too late. If we fail, the monsters won't be the ones in danger. I will be.
Monsters and my true love.. I never saw that coming. I should have really just gone to the Snapple store.
Scales and Seduction is the first book in the Monster Match series. Each book can be read as a standalone. If you enjoy dominant consent kings, look no further cause our boy has you covered.
All I wanted was to get my phone fixed. Still, when the owner offered me a deal to download his weird dating app for a steep discount on my repair.. I figured, why not? What’s the worst that could happen?
Well…turns out, everything.
The app is a portal to a whole other world, one that’s crawling with monsters. And when I swiped right on Gideon, the hottest, most delicious snake-man I’ve ever seen (seriously, he could coil me up any day), my entire reality changed.
One second, I’m in my apartment. Next, I’m sitting in the middle of the Vale, a hidden town filled with fangs, fins and my incredibly dominant Naga mate. Oh, and did I mention he’s a prince? And engaged? Yeah…that's super fun. I should be running for the hills, but there’s something about Gideon that makes me want to stay—but that comes at a price.
An ancient curse has kept the monster realm and the human realm apart for centuries. Now, the town is under attack, corpses are crawling out of the ground and all signs point to a secret that could change everything. Gideon and I will have to unravel the mystery before it’s too late. If we fail, the monsters won't be the ones in danger. I will be.
Monsters and my true love.. I never saw that coming. I should have really just gone to the Snapple store.
Scales and Seduction is the first book in the Monster Match series. Each book can be read as a standalone. If you enjoy dominant consent kings, look no further cause our boy has you covered.
236 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 3, 2025
I haven't read many Naga romances but Gideon has become a part of my favorite monster males. He's so protective and understanding. Although I did want to slap him a few times when he was acting reckless and should have made better choices! I can understand wanting to get it on with such an amazing woman such as Ruby but damn Gid keep them (yes THEM 😏) in your pants! There's danger afoot!
There was lots of mystery and angst that kept me guessing throughout the whole book. I thought I had it figured out but Leona surprised with me several plot twists! We don't have all the answers yet so I'll be looking forward to the next book!
There was lots of mystery and angst that kept me guessing throughout the whole book. I thought I had it figured out but Leona surprised with me several plot twists! We don't have all the answers yet so I'll be looking forward to the next book!
April 19, 2025
2.5 - 3 stars!
Scales and Seduction was fine but didn’t quite grab my attention like I thought it would. I didn’t love the whole “engaged to another woman” trope and I didn’t think there was all that much character or relationship development. That made it hard to connect to their sexual relationship. I also was a bit confused about the world and the part that Ruby played.
Overall, this story just didn’t do it for me.
Scales and Seduction was fine but didn’t quite grab my attention like I thought it would. I didn’t love the whole “engaged to another woman” trope and I didn’t think there was all that much character or relationship development. That made it hard to connect to their sexual relationship. I also was a bit confused about the world and the part that Ruby played.
Overall, this story just didn’t do it for me.
June 19, 2025
3.25 ✨I did enjoy this book, I adore the cover & the world building. Spice was spicy!
I think this was a good start to a series that could be really cool.
I really loved the concept of a secret magic app that is bringing humans and monsters together that are separated in different realms. The setup was good and I do plan to read the next when it comes out!
The characters were enjoyable & the spice between them was 🔥💦 I definitely enjoyed that!
This was a fun story with some drama & action that kept me interested. I think it fell a little short just because it needed more depth to it. I felt like even though they are fated mates their should still be more of them getting to know each other but this kind of had instafeelings/instalove vibes… and I guess it was hard to buy bc of the fact that he was with someone when she showed up. I get that it was an arranged marriage and he was forced into it but they had been intimate so… idk that part I just didn’t love.
However I think that this series could be really great with a little more substance added into it.
I think this was a good start to a series that could be really cool.
I really loved the concept of a secret magic app that is bringing humans and monsters together that are separated in different realms. The setup was good and I do plan to read the next when it comes out!
The characters were enjoyable & the spice between them was 🔥💦 I definitely enjoyed that!
This was a fun story with some drama & action that kept me interested. I think it fell a little short just because it needed more depth to it. I felt like even though they are fated mates their should still be more of them getting to know each other but this kind of had instafeelings/instalove vibes… and I guess it was hard to buy bc of the fact that he was with someone when she showed up. I get that it was an arranged marriage and he was forced into it but they had been intimate so… idk that part I just didn’t love.
However I think that this series could be really great with a little more substance added into it.
September 19, 2025
Well, I wanted to like you.
April 5, 2025
Fun little monster romance.
Magical dating app has the ability to connect you with your soul mate. In Ruby's case though, that means being dropped through a portal into a world where humans don't belong. Thankfully her mate is one hunk of a naga determined to keep her by his side.
I look forward to more books in this world.
*I received an eARC*
Magical dating app has the ability to connect you with your soul mate. In Ruby's case though, that means being dropped through a portal into a world where humans don't belong. Thankfully her mate is one hunk of a naga determined to keep her by his side.
I look forward to more books in this world.
*I received an eARC*
June 25, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: Not gonna lie, if I broke my phone like our FMC does in the first few pages and I could get it repaired for $100 instead of $450 and I just have to download a dating app....I'm there. "His voice turns low and conspiratorial, “I can cut you a deal. Test out my app, and I’ll make it one hundred even.” A hundred bucks? G0d, that’s a steal, and if it’s just a $h¡tty app, it’s no different from the loads of bloatware I have on the phone stock from the store. “What kind of app is it?” What could it hurt? “It’s a dating app.” Burney’s eyebrow rises, and his lip quirks on the left side. I feel his eyes sweeping over me, silently appraising me. My stomach twists when I remember I actually put effort into my outfit for brunch. My normally wild hair is wrangled behind sunglasses, and my fuchsia sundress shows just enough of my cle@vage. It felt like a fun choice at the time. Now I wish I’d thrown on my baggiest sweatpants and called it a day. “It has a twist to it, though, so maybe it’s not for you.” I try to hide the disdain from my face. A dating app and from a weird, creepy shop? I’m not so sure I should chance that. “What kind of twist? Is it safe?” Burney’s eyes sparkle with something unreadable as he leans over the glass case toward me, a smile tugging at his lips. “Let’s just say the users aren’t exactly ordinary.” His voice is almost too reassuring. “But don’t worry, it’s completely safe. I promise your data is in good hands” My mind starts racing at all the possibilities of what could happen to me. Quinn told me to be careful with what I signed, and this is really not typical from a repair shop. “Oh… I don’t know.” I look at my phone and then back at the door. Is it really worth it? “Well, if you don’t download it, then it’s four hundred fifty to fix.” Sold!" At that price point and considering the wild things you find on Tinder for instance, not even a pause between the offer and me accepting.
And holy WOW, I snort laughed while reading Ruby going through the different profiles. It's the tiny things like Ruby's cat being named Noodles, a merman on the app with a catfish named Tuna, you just need a werewolf with a cat named casserole and your throuple has a Midwest hot dish naming convention. The author does an incredible job of setting up what you might think will be a cozy, medium spice type of read and I would have been just fine with that...but ohmylanta that is NOT what this story is and I mean that in such a great way. The chemistry between Ruby and Gideon threatens to incinerate the pages and when I say Gideon is #AConsentKing and the exact kind of strong, filthy, caring, safe/sane/enthusiastically consenting top that dreams are made of I MEAN IT. Sizzling scenes, decadent descriptions, and **the aftercare omg**.
There are so many themes that I love in monster romance that are present in this book that it was mind blowing. There are political and magical intrigues, hidden enemies, disability and mental health representation, complicated family dynamics, and more. I'm simply over the moon with this read. 5/5 Stars
And holy WOW, I snort laughed while reading Ruby going through the different profiles. It's the tiny things like Ruby's cat being named Noodles, a merman on the app with a catfish named Tuna, you just need a werewolf with a cat named casserole and your throuple has a Midwest hot dish naming convention. The author does an incredible job of setting up what you might think will be a cozy, medium spice type of read and I would have been just fine with that...but ohmylanta that is NOT what this story is and I mean that in such a great way. The chemistry between Ruby and Gideon threatens to incinerate the pages and when I say Gideon is #AConsentKing and the exact kind of strong, filthy, caring, safe/sane/enthusiastically consenting top that dreams are made of I MEAN IT. Sizzling scenes, decadent descriptions, and **the aftercare omg**.
There are so many themes that I love in monster romance that are present in this book that it was mind blowing. There are political and magical intrigues, hidden enemies, disability and mental health representation, complicated family dynamics, and more. I'm simply over the moon with this read. 5/5 Stars
March 26, 2026
A fun standalone monster romance, that gets quite the interconnected plot in the latter half.
Having unfortunately broken her phone our FMC is recommended a repair shop that does work for a reasonable price. Little did she know that the reduced price in exchange for downloading and using a dating app that matches you with your fated mate, would throw her into a magical realm beyond her imagination… literally.
The first half of the book is a very cute and spicy romance between our human FMC and a Naga. She’s thrown into an unknown world and he comes to her rescue. He’s a prince that’s in an arranged marriage (neither side is interested in), so when he meets this human that he has an undeniable connection with he will do everything to keep her safe as not all monsters are fond of humans.
As we gain more history and understanding of the realm we also fall into more of a mystery. Old stories say that the human and monster realms were closed off from each other for various reasons, each species has their own idea, and this becomes more of a factor as undead start to come after our FMC. This is when things get interesting as we have no idea who exactly or why they’re after her.
For the most part our MCs seem to each have two sides to themselves. Our FMC has this worry about her, she wants to get home and away from this realm where she’s not exactly welcome, while also flipping to being in total flirty lust with the MMC. The MMC is besotted with his mate, even as it takes him a little while to accept that fated mates exist, and is also worrying the whole time about her being in the realm while also worrying that she is trying to leave him.
We definitely get to enjoy the spicy results of our MCs giving into their lust many times over. One of the times even pushes the plot forward as it helps uncover some interesting evidence.
I didn’t expect the substantial plot that came in the latter half with the ancient history, world building, and subtle indicators of a bigger game being played. After the major battle, as much as there were changes happening with the FMC as well as her coming to terms with her feelings about the MMC, it felt mostly like a set up for the next book in the series. We did get a nice HEA for our MCs, and a very spicy epilogue to enjoy!
I’ve got a good idea what route this plot will take, but I’m still curious about the history of this universe that author has built. Add in the delicious spice and sweet characters, and I’m quite likely going to be picking up the next book in the series.
Having unfortunately broken her phone our FMC is recommended a repair shop that does work for a reasonable price. Little did she know that the reduced price in exchange for downloading and using a dating app that matches you with your fated mate, would throw her into a magical realm beyond her imagination… literally.
The first half of the book is a very cute and spicy romance between our human FMC and a Naga. She’s thrown into an unknown world and he comes to her rescue. He’s a prince that’s in an arranged marriage (neither side is interested in), so when he meets this human that he has an undeniable connection with he will do everything to keep her safe as not all monsters are fond of humans.
As we gain more history and understanding of the realm we also fall into more of a mystery. Old stories say that the human and monster realms were closed off from each other for various reasons, each species has their own idea, and this becomes more of a factor as undead start to come after our FMC. This is when things get interesting as we have no idea who exactly or why they’re after her.
For the most part our MCs seem to each have two sides to themselves. Our FMC has this worry about her, she wants to get home and away from this realm where she’s not exactly welcome, while also flipping to being in total flirty lust with the MMC. The MMC is besotted with his mate, even as it takes him a little while to accept that fated mates exist, and is also worrying the whole time about her being in the realm while also worrying that she is trying to leave him.
We definitely get to enjoy the spicy results of our MCs giving into their lust many times over. One of the times even pushes the plot forward as it helps uncover some interesting evidence.
I didn’t expect the substantial plot that came in the latter half with the ancient history, world building, and subtle indicators of a bigger game being played. After the major battle, as much as there were changes happening with the FMC as well as her coming to terms with her feelings about the MMC, it felt mostly like a set up for the next book in the series. We did get a nice HEA for our MCs, and a very spicy epilogue to enjoy!
I’ve got a good idea what route this plot will take, but I’m still curious about the history of this universe that author has built. Add in the delicious spice and sweet characters, and I’m quite likely going to be picking up the next book in the series.
March 19, 2026
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Did I read this in one sitting? Yes. Am I ready to swipe right on a Naga prince in an arranged engagement even though humans aren’t totally welcome in his world just so he can slither-chase me through the woods on his property, bite me with those fangs and provide double the fun? Well, that’s for me to know and you to make an educated guess about 😂
✨Small Magical Town
🐍Human x Naga Royal
💚Magical Dating App Meet-Cute
🐍Fated Mates
✨Light BD$M, Use of Restraints & Tail Play
🐍Aphrodisiac Venom, DOUBLE 🍆🍆 & Knotting
💚Praise & Degradation
🐍Pr!mal Play
✨Found Family
Ruby is down on her luck and in desperate need of getting her phone fixed. When the shop owner offers her a discount on the repair in exchange for downloading a new dating app he’s trialing, she agrees. What’s the worst that could happen?
Well…turns out the app is a portal to another world filled with monsters. So when Ruby swipes right on the hottest snake-man she’s ever seen, her world is forever changed and she finds herself in Vale, face-to-face with her dominant Naga mate who’s technically engaged to someone else and is a prince (minor details).
But, not everyone is happy with Ruby’s arrival – there’s an ancient curse that has kept the monster and human realms apart for centuries, and now the town is under attack…
Listen. Where was this app when I was single? Because, goodbye world, I’ll take my chances in Vale to find my monster match. Is it risky with an ancient curse and magic running amok, and figures in the background trying to capture that ancient magic? Yes. But, the benefits outweigh the risks – a dominant Naga with aphrodisiac venom and double the fun 👀 would make me forget the danger (and my own name). I love a fated mates trope and the undeniable pull between Ruby and Gideon had me squealing with glee – they were inevitable and I was here for it (I mean, seriously, Gideon could coil me up any day as his willing prey) and allllllllll the spice! And when danger appeared on Gideon’s doorstep? Well, we love a protective male and his found family showing up to ensure Ruby’s safety! Our side characters are all gems and I can’t wait for them to get their mates (feel free to use my likeness as inspo for Loran’s mate, just saying)!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Did I read this in one sitting? Yes. Am I ready to swipe right on a Naga prince in an arranged engagement even though humans aren’t totally welcome in his world just so he can slither-chase me through the woods on his property, bite me with those fangs and provide double the fun? Well, that’s for me to know and you to make an educated guess about 😂
✨Small Magical Town
🐍Human x Naga Royal
💚Magical Dating App Meet-Cute
🐍Fated Mates
✨Light BD$M, Use of Restraints & Tail Play
🐍Aphrodisiac Venom, DOUBLE 🍆🍆 & Knotting
💚Praise & Degradation
🐍Pr!mal Play
✨Found Family
Ruby is down on her luck and in desperate need of getting her phone fixed. When the shop owner offers her a discount on the repair in exchange for downloading a new dating app he’s trialing, she agrees. What’s the worst that could happen?
Well…turns out the app is a portal to another world filled with monsters. So when Ruby swipes right on the hottest snake-man she’s ever seen, her world is forever changed and she finds herself in Vale, face-to-face with her dominant Naga mate who’s technically engaged to someone else and is a prince (minor details).
But, not everyone is happy with Ruby’s arrival – there’s an ancient curse that has kept the monster and human realms apart for centuries, and now the town is under attack…
Listen. Where was this app when I was single? Because, goodbye world, I’ll take my chances in Vale to find my monster match. Is it risky with an ancient curse and magic running amok, and figures in the background trying to capture that ancient magic? Yes. But, the benefits outweigh the risks – a dominant Naga with aphrodisiac venom and double the fun 👀 would make me forget the danger (and my own name). I love a fated mates trope and the undeniable pull between Ruby and Gideon had me squealing with glee – they were inevitable and I was here for it (I mean, seriously, Gideon could coil me up any day as his willing prey) and allllllllll the spice! And when danger appeared on Gideon’s doorstep? Well, we love a protective male and his found family showing up to ensure Ruby’s safety! Our side characters are all gems and I can’t wait for them to get their mates (feel free to use my likeness as inspo for Loran’s mate, just saying)!
August 29, 2025
When Ruby agrees to download a dating app in exchange for a discount on a phone repair, she figures she’ll log in, log out, and that will be that. But when she finds herself pulled into a world inhabited exclusively by non-humans, and into the arms of Gideon, a Naga prince. Just a couple of problems: Gideon is already engaged, and humans are not welcome in this realm. And that’s not even counting the reanimated corpses that are suddenly prowling the town. Ruby must decide if she will take what she wants, or go back to the comfort of what she has always known.
This is definitely a character-focused book, though there is enough plot to carry the story as well. I was interested to read about a Naga love interest, and I think that Gideon was written reasonably well. He did suffer a bit from “chronically ill when it’s convenient” syndrome, but I appreciated the unique twist to his character. The author did a good job of making Gideon and Ruby’s POV chapters narratively distinct from each other, and I enjoyed their dialogue a lot. I would have liked to see them get to know each other a bit more, but it worked in the context of being a fated mates romance.
The plot had a bit of a drag in the middle, but it picked up and I found it quite enjoyable once it did. Like many other monster romance books, there were certain times during the spicy scenes that I had to suspend my disbelief a bit for what I consider the average human woman capable of doing without some degree of preparation. But you know what? That’s fine. This was an easy read and I appreciated the creativity that went into the world and its characters. I found the variety of character personalities to be fun as well. I had a good time reading it, and I think fans of the genre will, too.
4/5 True to life for certain aspects of snake anatomy.
This is definitely a character-focused book, though there is enough plot to carry the story as well. I was interested to read about a Naga love interest, and I think that Gideon was written reasonably well. He did suffer a bit from “chronically ill when it’s convenient” syndrome, but I appreciated the unique twist to his character. The author did a good job of making Gideon and Ruby’s POV chapters narratively distinct from each other, and I enjoyed their dialogue a lot. I would have liked to see them get to know each other a bit more, but it worked in the context of being a fated mates romance.
The plot had a bit of a drag in the middle, but it picked up and I found it quite enjoyable once it did. Like many other monster romance books, there were certain times during the spicy scenes that I had to suspend my disbelief a bit for what I consider the average human woman capable of doing without some degree of preparation. But you know what? That’s fine. This was an easy read and I appreciated the creativity that went into the world and its characters. I found the variety of character personalities to be fun as well. I had a good time reading it, and I think fans of the genre will, too.
4/5 True to life for certain aspects of snake anatomy.
April 7, 2025
This was such a great start to the series! The concept was very cool and fresh, I can’t wait to learn more about the app and who it brings to Vale next. I thought Vale was a very beautiful setting, with a mixture of classic fantasy and modern applications blended together. I think it hit that sweet spot in between just right to still make it feel fantastical. Gideon was very VERY attractive, I loved all his different qualities, to demanding and dominant, to soft and vulnerable with Ruby. I would have loved to see him talk more about his illness and responsibilities with her; I loved his soft side for her. Ruby herself was a great MC to follow, I think she had just the right amount of apprehension to the world but still let herself enjoy it and the new experiences she could have. I would have loved to learn more about her at the end before we shift MCs in the next book, but I’m hoping we still learn more in the future.
The spice was amazing, I love a dom/sub dynamic and the venom was Avery nice touch to their dynamic. Gideon had everything, multiple *equipments*, tail play, strength, fangs, aphrodisiac venom, and a demanding dom style to match. Their dynamic was very fun. And to top it all off, we had Noodles! I won’t spoil anything, but her cat was a great side character. My only complaint was the ending felt a bit rushed, with some things left unresolved, which I’m sure is setting up the rest of the series. I wanted to know more about Ruby at the end, and see more domestic moments between her and Gideon. I’m definitely ready to dive into the rest of this series as it comes!
The spice was amazing, I love a dom/sub dynamic and the venom was Avery nice touch to their dynamic. Gideon had everything, multiple *equipments*, tail play, strength, fangs, aphrodisiac venom, and a demanding dom style to match. Their dynamic was very fun. And to top it all off, we had Noodles! I won’t spoil anything, but her cat was a great side character. My only complaint was the ending felt a bit rushed, with some things left unresolved, which I’m sure is setting up the rest of the series. I wanted to know more about Ruby at the end, and see more domestic moments between her and Gideon. I’m definitely ready to dive into the rest of this series as it comes!
April 13, 2025
Release date: April 17th
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Thank you so much to @leonawildeauthor for sending me this extremely fun ARC. Scales and Seduction is the first book of the Monster Match series, and I'm pleased to say that I'm hooked. Im already really excited to see what happens in the next book. The characters are lovable and unique, the world is enchanting, and the spice in this book was top tier. 🥵
Gideon is wonderful. He is so sweet and caring with Ruby, and I think I have a thing for tail play and aphrodisiac venom now?
Ruby is lovable, determined, and a compassionate character who wanders into a phone repair shop and is offered a deal. Download an app and get a hefty discount. The app is a dating site for finding your true mate, and after swiping right on a sexy Naga, Ruby is thrust into a portal to another world called the Vale. With a desire to get home, a curse and a sweet, handsome, already engaged (akward) snake prince who makes her blood run hot, this story is brimming with endless excitement. Also, she has a cat named Noodles, who is a sassy fluff and one of the best characters in this book.
This is the cozy fantasy that has you wishing to be wrapped within your own kinky Naga's coils. Highly recommend!
#cozyfantasy #leonawildeauthor #scalesandseduction #naga #tailplay #foundfamily #steamyromance #bookstagram #arcreview #arc #highlyreccomended #worldbuilding #romance #monsterromance
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Thank you so much to @leonawildeauthor for sending me this extremely fun ARC. Scales and Seduction is the first book of the Monster Match series, and I'm pleased to say that I'm hooked. Im already really excited to see what happens in the next book. The characters are lovable and unique, the world is enchanting, and the spice in this book was top tier. 🥵
Gideon is wonderful. He is so sweet and caring with Ruby, and I think I have a thing for tail play and aphrodisiac venom now?
Ruby is lovable, determined, and a compassionate character who wanders into a phone repair shop and is offered a deal. Download an app and get a hefty discount. The app is a dating site for finding your true mate, and after swiping right on a sexy Naga, Ruby is thrust into a portal to another world called the Vale. With a desire to get home, a curse and a sweet, handsome, already engaged (akward) snake prince who makes her blood run hot, this story is brimming with endless excitement. Also, she has a cat named Noodles, who is a sassy fluff and one of the best characters in this book.
This is the cozy fantasy that has you wishing to be wrapped within your own kinky Naga's coils. Highly recommend!
#cozyfantasy #leonawildeauthor #scalesandseduction #naga #tailplay #foundfamily #steamyromance #bookstagram #arcreview #arc #highlyreccomended #worldbuilding #romance #monsterromance
April 19, 2025
It is not every day that I get to read a book that seamlessly merges modern technology with fantasy so perfectly. But Leona Wilde managed to create a world that had all the fantasy and none of the plot holes. The ever-so-determined Ruby is someone we can all relate to. In an attempt to save money, she blindly agreed to download a dating app (because who among us has not filled out a random survey or played a random game just for a couple of bucks) only to end up in an alternate universe. Instead of having Ruby automatically embrace the world like most fantasy novels would, Wilde stayed true to the feelings most experience when taken from their home: fear, apprehension, and grief. Another aspect I appreciated was how the world did not stop as soon as Ruby arrived. When Ruby lands in this world, Wilde lets the readers know that Ruby coming to the world is a new dilemma for the MC, Gideon, despite his feelings for her. I appreciate how Gideons life did not come to a screeching halt. Rather he had to figure out how to protect Ruby while continuing to shoulder his many burdens. Although this book is categorized as a romantasy, I believe that because of the world building and lore, even the most stoic fantasy fan would be hooked. Plus it does’nt hurt that Gideons powers come in handy in more ways than one. I enjoyed this book so much that if Wilde ever releases special editions for a physical copy, I would be one of the first in line.
May 11, 2025
I went into this book knowing I’d enjoy it based on the cover and blurb, but I had no idea I was going to be obsessed with all the characters by the end. This book was so good.
Gideon—talk about the ultimate naga prince. He’s dominant, possessive, and yet so loving. I mean, can I get a Gideon in my life, please? He has the perfect balance of intensity and tenderness that totally grabbed me.
Ruby was a total standout for me too. She’s spunky, strong, and handles being thrown into a wild new world like a champ. I swear, if I were in her shoes, I’d probably be freaking out a bit, but she stays cool, collected, and just rolls with it. Plus, the romance between her and Gideon was heart-melting!
I loved how clearly I could picture everything—the Vale, the eerie threats creeping in around the edges, all of it. And the story isn’t just romance (though the romance is absolutely beautiful and so spicy!); there’s a mystery woven through this story, with darker twists and a looming danger that had me fully hooked.
OK, Side note—can we just talk about Silas for a minute? Immediate attraction. Every time he showed up, I was excited. He stood out in the best way, and I’ve got a strong suspicion we’ll be seeing more of him in future books. Loran had me curious too—I’m really wondering what’s going on with him beneath the surface, and I’d love to see him get his own story.
I can’t recommend this book enough, and I’m so ready for the next in the series.
Gideon—talk about the ultimate naga prince. He’s dominant, possessive, and yet so loving. I mean, can I get a Gideon in my life, please? He has the perfect balance of intensity and tenderness that totally grabbed me.
Ruby was a total standout for me too. She’s spunky, strong, and handles being thrown into a wild new world like a champ. I swear, if I were in her shoes, I’d probably be freaking out a bit, but she stays cool, collected, and just rolls with it. Plus, the romance between her and Gideon was heart-melting!
I loved how clearly I could picture everything—the Vale, the eerie threats creeping in around the edges, all of it. And the story isn’t just romance (though the romance is absolutely beautiful and so spicy!); there’s a mystery woven through this story, with darker twists and a looming danger that had me fully hooked.
OK, Side note—can we just talk about Silas for a minute? Immediate attraction. Every time he showed up, I was excited. He stood out in the best way, and I’ve got a strong suspicion we’ll be seeing more of him in future books. Loran had me curious too—I’m really wondering what’s going on with him beneath the surface, and I’d love to see him get his own story.
I can’t recommend this book enough, and I’m so ready for the next in the series.
April 12, 2025
ARC Review
4.75 Stars
What starts as a simple trip to fix a phone turns into an unexpected romance and danger for Ruby, thanks to a mysterious dating app.
This book was amazing.Ruby—I am in love with Ruby, and Gideon is just the perfect partner for her. I can't wait to see more of them in the next book in the series.
The only thing I could say that I didn't like was that the book was too short. I NEED MORE.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Scales and Seduction, the first book in the Monster Match Series by Leona Wilde releases on the 17th of April.
Version Francais
Critique ARC
4,75 étoiles
Ce qui commence comme une simple sortie pour faire réparer un téléphone se transforme en une romance inattendue et pleine de dangers pour Ruby, grâce à une mystérieuse application de rencontres.
Ce livre était incroyable. Ruby — je suis complètement tombée amoureuse de Ruby, et Gideon est tout simplement le partenaire parfait pour elle. J’ai hâte de les retrouver dans le prochain tome de la série.
Le seul point négatif que je pourrais mentionner, c’est que le livre était trop court. J’EN VEUX PLUS.
J’ai tellement hâte de lire la suite de la série.
Scales and Seduction, le premier tome de la série Monster Match par Leona Wilde, sort le 17 avril.
4.75 Stars
What starts as a simple trip to fix a phone turns into an unexpected romance and danger for Ruby, thanks to a mysterious dating app.
This book was amazing.Ruby—I am in love with Ruby, and Gideon is just the perfect partner for her. I can't wait to see more of them in the next book in the series.
The only thing I could say that I didn't like was that the book was too short. I NEED MORE.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Scales and Seduction, the first book in the Monster Match Series by Leona Wilde releases on the 17th of April.
Version Francais
Critique ARC
4,75 étoiles
Ce qui commence comme une simple sortie pour faire réparer un téléphone se transforme en une romance inattendue et pleine de dangers pour Ruby, grâce à une mystérieuse application de rencontres.
Ce livre était incroyable. Ruby — je suis complètement tombée amoureuse de Ruby, et Gideon est tout simplement le partenaire parfait pour elle. J’ai hâte de les retrouver dans le prochain tome de la série.
Le seul point négatif que je pourrais mentionner, c’est que le livre était trop court. J’EN VEUX PLUS.
J’ai tellement hâte de lire la suite de la série.
Scales and Seduction, le premier tome de la série Monster Match par Leona Wilde, sort le 17 avril.
April 26, 2025
DNF @ 64%
I wanted to like this so badly. I was just so confused about the world building and the sudden history of said world coming from nowhere with little explanation. They were explained eventually, but the FMC didn't even ask for more information at the time it was brought up in front of her.
The MMC is a Naga, right? half man, half snake, slithers around. That's what you expect. I had that firmly in my mind, but then the book says "walked," "stood," and "weak in the knees," all related to the MMC thoughts or descriptions. It really threw me out of the story, and I started to question what I knew a Naga was supposed to look like.
Is the MMC Naga? or is he a "naga" bipedal form with a long tail? The "weak in the knees," this is what made me give up. My brain automatically went, "but he has no knees," immersion broken.
I've been needing some good monster smut lately, but keep getting misses..
I wanted to like this so badly. I was just so confused about the world building and the sudden history of said world coming from nowhere with little explanation. They were explained eventually, but the FMC didn't even ask for more information at the time it was brought up in front of her.
The MMC is a Naga, right? half man, half snake, slithers around. That's what you expect. I had that firmly in my mind, but then the book says "walked," "stood," and "weak in the knees," all related to the MMC thoughts or descriptions. It really threw me out of the story, and I started to question what I knew a Naga was supposed to look like.
Is the MMC Naga? or is he a "naga" bipedal form with a long tail? The "weak in the knees," this is what made me give up. My brain automatically went, "but he has no knees," immersion broken.
I've been needing some good monster smut lately, but keep getting misses..
May 6, 2026
This was good for a low stress fantasy smut and I did appreciate that the story of invading zombies also continues into book 2.
I did not really like how rushed everything was but given the nature of this story and why I'm really here it makes sense. I do wish the author proofread the story because some parts confused me because what do you mean the FMC was naked on the next page but there was no descriptor that she became naked? Maybe that's just me....
The FMC was cringe at times but I'm so used to the white, curvy, and nerdy FMC protags that I kinda of just speed read any issues she had going on lol.
Overall a fun quick read although it definitely feels like it took heavy inspiration from Hazel Mack's Haven Ever After series (humans being pulled into a magical place -> fated mates -> some evil presence attacking the monster town -> FMC/human is discovered to have some sort of power). But I also love more fantasy monster romances so idrc atp lol
I did not really like how rushed everything was but given the nature of this story and why I'm really here it makes sense. I do wish the author proofread the story because some parts confused me because what do you mean the FMC was naked on the next page but there was no descriptor that she became naked? Maybe that's just me....
The FMC was cringe at times but I'm so used to the white, curvy, and nerdy FMC protags that I kinda of just speed read any issues she had going on lol.
Overall a fun quick read although it definitely feels like it took heavy inspiration from Hazel Mack's Haven Ever After series (humans being pulled into a magical place -> fated mates -> some evil presence attacking the monster town -> FMC/human is discovered to have some sort of power). But I also love more fantasy monster romances so idrc atp lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
You guys 😭😭🩷 the way this book made me feel so much unggghhh
The found family trope ALWAYS gets my ass, but I teared up THREE different times over it in here so like…miss Leona imma need you to calm down lmao 😭🫶🏻 (lies, pls never change)
I knew I’d love this book based on how much I loved Wings of Desire but I wasn’t ready for it to hit as HARD as it did, emotionally-speaking. I loved both of the mc’s, Ruby and Gideon, equally; which isn’t always the case for me!
The side characters omfgggg. 10/10, I could FEEL their relationship with the mmc and it was so gahtdamn pure and sweet. Their banter is also phenomenal lmao
Thank you Leona for trusting me with an arc of your book, you’re such an angel oh also THE WAY THAT I ALMOST PASSED OUT SEEING MY NAME IN THE DEDICATION BIIIHHH I CRY AGAINNNN 😭🩷🩷🩷
The found family trope ALWAYS gets my ass, but I teared up THREE different times over it in here so like…miss Leona imma need you to calm down lmao 😭🫶🏻 (lies, pls never change)
I knew I’d love this book based on how much I loved Wings of Desire but I wasn’t ready for it to hit as HARD as it did, emotionally-speaking. I loved both of the mc’s, Ruby and Gideon, equally; which isn’t always the case for me!
The side characters omfgggg. 10/10, I could FEEL their relationship with the mmc and it was so gahtdamn pure and sweet. Their banter is also phenomenal lmao
Thank you Leona for trusting me with an arc of your book, you’re such an angel oh also THE WAY THAT I ALMOST PASSED OUT SEEING MY NAME IN THE DEDICATION BIIIHHH I CRY AGAINNNN 😭🩷🩷🩷
May 6, 2026
It took me forever to read this book. A big part of that was because I didn’t really feel a connection to the characters, their relationship or the world. I grabbed this thinking it was going to be a light fantasy read with a quirky meeting between the two leads, it’s a bit of that but a lot more and not in the best way. It’s a lot being thrown at you and unfortunately a lot of it is under developed. I think this book may have been better if it was longer to help build out everything a bit more. I know part of the issue is the author doesn’t want to play all her cards in one book based on the ending, however as a reader I needed more to connect to this world. At a minimum I needed more chemistry between the leads. I’m mainly giving this three stars because it’s potential in the series, this could easily be a case of the first book being the worse book.
April 13, 2025
This was such a fun fated mate romance book! It wasn't the typical fated mate romance but it had a fun twist one it. I also haven't read many naga romances yet but Gideon was such an interesting character.
Ruby breaks her phone one day and to get it fixed for cheap she needs to download a dating app. What could go wrong. The app turns out to be a portal to another world with monsters. Gideon, a naga who she also swiped right on, is the one that finds her. The problem is that humans are not allowed in this world and she needs to hide. She never expected to get a naga royalty mate. Gideon feels a connection between them so he is determined to keep her safe especially when there are attacks that seem to be targeted at Ruby.
I loved the dynamic that Ruby and Gideon had, they are strangers but feel the connection between them. Gideon was really protective from the start. Also Noodles the cat really stole the show! I am also very excited to see what the next book will bring cause I have some side characters that I can't wait to see their story!
If you are looking for a fate mate, steamy, naga romance this is one for you!
Thanks to Leona Wilde for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ruby breaks her phone one day and to get it fixed for cheap she needs to download a dating app. What could go wrong. The app turns out to be a portal to another world with monsters. Gideon, a naga who she also swiped right on, is the one that finds her. The problem is that humans are not allowed in this world and she needs to hide. She never expected to get a naga royalty mate. Gideon feels a connection between them so he is determined to keep her safe especially when there are attacks that seem to be targeted at Ruby.
I loved the dynamic that Ruby and Gideon had, they are strangers but feel the connection between them. Gideon was really protective from the start. Also Noodles the cat really stole the show! I am also very excited to see what the next book will bring cause I have some side characters that I can't wait to see their story!
If you are looking for a fate mate, steamy, naga romance this is one for you!
Thanks to Leona Wilde for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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April 4, 2025
This is a really fun, short monster romance complete with mystery, magic and fated mates.
I didn’t love the dating app setup but that’s probably a gripe I have against urban fantasy as a whole and not personal to this book.
The main characters are really sweet and Gideon made for a very good hot giant snake man mmc. The rest of the monster characters are also very loveable, I would have liked them (and maybe the human characters?) to be a bit more fleshed out but I’m sure we’ll get more of that in the continuation of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
🌶️ 3/5
⭐ 3.75/5
I didn’t love the dating app setup but that’s probably a gripe I have against urban fantasy as a whole and not personal to this book.
The main characters are really sweet and Gideon made for a very good hot giant snake man mmc. The rest of the monster characters are also very loveable, I would have liked them (and maybe the human characters?) to be a bit more fleshed out but I’m sure we’ll get more of that in the continuation of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
🌶️ 3/5
⭐ 3.75/5
April 24, 2025
Another wonderful holiday read! I was going to wait until the paperbacks i ordered arrived but I couldn’t help myself 😂 I’m glad I brought my kindle along!
This story encompassed so many of my favourite monster romance tropes - I absolutely adore Leona’s fresh take on a monster match dating app, fated mates/soul bonds and monster/human realms.
Gideon is such a wonderful, protective and understanding partner for our FMC Ruby. Definitely one of my favourite monster partners in a long time! I also love Naga’s as a monster species and since finishing Naomi Lucas’ Naga Brides series I am always looking for books featuring them 🐍 Ruby was sweet, easygoing and loveable - such a perfect match for Gideon.
There were so many fun parts of Ruby & Gideons story, I loved the Vale, the mystery and intrigue, all the unique creatures and species! OH AND NOODLES! I loved Noodles 😂
The spice was indeed spicy but not gratuitous and Gideon was… well let’s just say, twice blessed 🍆 there was great kink representation and we love a consent king (cobra).
This story encompassed so many of my favourite monster romance tropes - I absolutely adore Leona’s fresh take on a monster match dating app, fated mates/soul bonds and monster/human realms.
Gideon is such a wonderful, protective and understanding partner for our FMC Ruby. Definitely one of my favourite monster partners in a long time! I also love Naga’s as a monster species and since finishing Naomi Lucas’ Naga Brides series I am always looking for books featuring them 🐍 Ruby was sweet, easygoing and loveable - such a perfect match for Gideon.
There were so many fun parts of Ruby & Gideons story, I loved the Vale, the mystery and intrigue, all the unique creatures and species! OH AND NOODLES! I loved Noodles 😂
The spice was indeed spicy but not gratuitous and Gideon was… well let’s just say, twice blessed 🍆 there was great kink representation and we love a consent king (cobra).
April 9, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This has potential to be a really fun series. Magical dating app. Woman gets sucked into magical world where she matches with her Prince Naga mate. Absolutely amazing. We get introduced to all kinds of other fun characters, like orcs and unicorns. There is some political intrigue, arranged marriages, and magical curses.
But I do feel like the plot is a little under developed. I could use some more details and for things to be a little more fleshed out. A lot of the political plot was very surface level, and the romance was very quick and rushed.
The spice was suburb and delicious monster smut that was ALL love.
I'm excited to read more in the series!
This has potential to be a really fun series. Magical dating app. Woman gets sucked into magical world where she matches with her Prince Naga mate. Absolutely amazing. We get introduced to all kinds of other fun characters, like orcs and unicorns. There is some political intrigue, arranged marriages, and magical curses.
But I do feel like the plot is a little under developed. I could use some more details and for things to be a little more fleshed out. A lot of the political plot was very surface level, and the romance was very quick and rushed.
The spice was suburb and delicious monster smut that was ALL love.
I'm excited to read more in the series!
March 30, 2025
Pros:
It was Cute and Cozy
I loved the characters and their sense of humor.
The MMC is a total Cinnamon Roll
There is a mystery going on in the book.
The smut was top tier and went really well with the book.
Cons:
I think the book would have benefited from being longer.
The FMC was not my Favorite, but only because she was kinda a push over.
Overall I liked this book and it was a good read. I would definitely recommend it especially if you like the song Ordinary by Alex Warren because Gideon totally has that vibe.
It was Cute and Cozy
I loved the characters and their sense of humor.
The MMC is a total Cinnamon Roll
There is a mystery going on in the book.
The smut was top tier and went really well with the book.
Cons:
I think the book would have benefited from being longer.
The FMC was not my Favorite, but only because she was kinda a push over.
Overall I liked this book and it was a good read. I would definitely recommend it especially if you like the song Ordinary by Alex Warren because Gideon totally has that vibe.
April 27, 2025
Sexy Naga Prince, hell yeah! I loved Ruby & Gideon, the inclusion of Noodles had me imagining my own fluffy terror as a giant cat fiercely protecting her dad (she wouldn't as I'm the spare human but I can dream!) The chemistry was there but I am a slow burn kinda guy so I would have preferred more of a build up even in the case of fated mates. Regardless the world and the plot was fun, I'd say this was a pretty fast paced read and if you like a series with a continuous plot/no traditional HEA in the first book this is for you!
May 27, 2025
Steamy Short Romance
The only reason I did not give it a five-star rating was that I wish I knew Ruby's role and purpose more (after she gets magic).
However, it is a steamy book with the fated mate trope. This was my first monster romance book, and I have to say it made me want to read more. I do like how it keeps the plot together. In addition, the male character is very sweet, wanting to keep Ruby safe and protected.
It does mention BDSM and I like how it clarifies how it’s important to have a safe word.
The only reason I did not give it a five-star rating was that I wish I knew Ruby's role and purpose more (after she gets magic).
However, it is a steamy book with the fated mate trope. This was my first monster romance book, and I have to say it made me want to read more. I do like how it keeps the plot together. In addition, the male character is very sweet, wanting to keep Ruby safe and protected.
It does mention BDSM and I like how it clarifies how it’s important to have a safe word.
May 6, 2025
Scales and Seduction by Leona Wilde is the first book of the Monster Match series and it's a page-turner!
It's a monster romance full of mysteries, intrigue, heat and found family (my favorite).
I loved how the author presented the world to us right along with the FMC and I truly enjoyed how the characters evolved throughout the story. Gideon and Ruby have their happy for now but several questions remain and I can't wait to uncover all the clues.
It's a monster romance full of mysteries, intrigue, heat and found family (my favorite).
I loved how the author presented the world to us right along with the FMC and I truly enjoyed how the characters evolved throughout the story. Gideon and Ruby have their happy for now but several questions remain and I can't wait to uncover all the clues.
August 23, 2025
Magic and Technology equals THE BEST
I am so in love with this book! I absorbed the whole story and now need more. The entire idea of the two worlds, the "monster" versus human, given a breath of freshness and spice. Reading the love blossom - fated mates doesn't mean love, but Leona Wilde brings these characters TO love. They fall in love with each other, and we fall in love with all of them!!!
I am so in love with this book! I absorbed the whole story and now need more. The entire idea of the two worlds, the "monster" versus human, given a breath of freshness and spice. Reading the love blossom - fated mates doesn't mean love, but Leona Wilde brings these characters TO love. They fall in love with each other, and we fall in love with all of them!!!
April 13, 2026
A (secret) magical dating app that matches you with your monster mate?! SIGN. ME. TF. UP!!!! When I first read the blurb for this I was hooked, and after reading a couple pages I was SAT. THIS WAS SO GOOD & I AM IN LOVE!!!!! LEONA PLS!!!! Ruby and Gideon are truly SUCH A GOOD MATCH (lmfao). I loved their relationship so much. Gideon was SO protective and patient! We also stan a consent Naga king (erm prince?). Ruby was along for the ride (heh) and honestly same girl, big mood. I was also so relieved to know that her beloved cat Noodles made the trip with her too. Without getting too spoilery, he was one of my fave side characters and I adore how everything played out. The plot itself also kept me super engaged and I could not and did not want to put it down. I’m sure you’re wondering about the spice too huh? Oh it’s there…..man on man is it there. Times two. Add a little aphrodisiac venom and some b0ndage and you’ve got yourself a hot lil fun time. Leona is def on my top list for this month, and heck this year and I absolutely can’t wait to keep reading more in this series.
May 3, 2026
I haven't read many Naga romances, but I'm definitely loving the ones I have read! I love how affectionate and protective Gideon is for his mate Ruby. And there's a mystery that spans that keeps you intrigued! And tail play? Double the peen?? Yeah, that's a win! It's a different and interesting take on fated mates (finding them through a dating app??) I can't wait to see where the overall story takes us.
April 6, 2025
i will always read anything by this author. her monster romance is top tier and this was no different. the smut was smutting. i love that both main character's were equally likable. the found family trope had my emotions going haywire. gideon was easily my favorite. over protective and a big cinnamon roll. highly recommend
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