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Amid the Clouds: A Fantasy Monster Romance
It should have been a simple supply take the med kits and don’t get eaten by the monsters. Now I’m the one being taken, and the winged hunk plans to eat me. Out.
Having survived three apocalypses - as if one weren’t enough! – I knew how to stay alive in a world overrun by nightmarish monsters. Going on a supply run to my infested workplace should have been go in, bag the meds, get out as fast as a cat from a bathtub.
Little did I know that what awaited me in that creepy building would be more than a gun-wielding scientist could handle. As in, an overbearing hunk sporting blue skin, bat wings, and a naughty tail, who would fly me off to an unknown destination despite my opinion on the matter. The jerk thought a toe-curling kiss would make it all better. The nerve.
Now I’m in a place beyond my wildest imagination, and going back to my community of survivors might prove more difficult than expected. Especially when I’m being seduced into staying.
Amid the Clouds is a post-apocalyptic fantasy romance about a tough scientist with fear of commitment and a charming monster on a mission to get in her pants… and heart. Let yourself be whisked away to a world of magic and experience steamy moments, some jump scares, and quite a few laughs on the way to the guaranteed HEA. This is the first book in the Brave New World series but can be read as a standalone. For mature readers only.
Having survived three apocalypses - as if one weren’t enough! – I knew how to stay alive in a world overrun by nightmarish monsters. Going on a supply run to my infested workplace should have been go in, bag the meds, get out as fast as a cat from a bathtub.
Little did I know that what awaited me in that creepy building would be more than a gun-wielding scientist could handle. As in, an overbearing hunk sporting blue skin, bat wings, and a naughty tail, who would fly me off to an unknown destination despite my opinion on the matter. The jerk thought a toe-curling kiss would make it all better. The nerve.
Now I’m in a place beyond my wildest imagination, and going back to my community of survivors might prove more difficult than expected. Especially when I’m being seduced into staying.
Amid the Clouds is a post-apocalyptic fantasy romance about a tough scientist with fear of commitment and a charming monster on a mission to get in her pants… and heart. Let yourself be whisked away to a world of magic and experience steamy moments, some jump scares, and quite a few laughs on the way to the guaranteed HEA. This is the first book in the Brave New World series but can be read as a standalone. For mature readers only.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2025
17 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Marian Pattechat
9 books82 followersMarian is an avid fan of fantasy, science fiction, and horror books.
She started writing (in secret) novels in those genres when she was nine, and began adding a pinch of romance to her creations when the need for a Prince Charming hit her eventually.
Nowadays, her literary muse bugs her in the wee hours with steamy romance ideas combined with a hearty dose of humor. Armed with a glass of her favorite crème de menthe, Marian enjoys writing (no longer in secret) about sassy heroines and cinnamon roll heroes who discover new worlds – and love – together.
She started writing (in secret) novels in those genres when she was nine, and began adding a pinch of romance to her creations when the need for a Prince Charming hit her eventually.
Nowadays, her literary muse bugs her in the wee hours with steamy romance ideas combined with a hearty dose of humor. Armed with a glass of her favorite crème de menthe, Marian enjoys writing (no longer in secret) about sassy heroines and cinnamon roll heroes who discover new worlds – and love – together.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 18, 2026
Post-apocalyptic palette cleanser with a determined h and a kingly monster love interest. Survival in the world is difficult as Earth has been bombarded by three (I think) apocalyptic waves. Despite the bleak state of the world, the writing remains very light and humorous.
Written in first person, single POV of h. No ow/om drama and both are experienced, though different levels. The H references the numerous women that he claimed from the ground and brought to his kingdom. None were his mate and they went on to be claimed or mated with others, however, even the h thinks about how there have to be many former lovers of his running around (none ever shown on page). I think the h recollected two past lovers.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Scientist FMC x Gargoyle king MMC
☆ MMC has wings and a prehensile tail
☆ Bad guys include zombies, vampires, and aliens
☆ FMC saves him - he then forces her to come with him to safety
☆ Kingdom made of clouds
☆ Heavy pursuit by MMC
☆ FMC fights the attraction
☆ Mate bond
☆ Humor that veers into zany in places
☆ War planning and strategizing that the FMC insists on taking part in
☆ History books with emoji use 😂
☆ Victory and HEA/HFN
I liked this story for how consumable it was. I did think because it was such an easy read, it stayed fairly shallow. Because the book opens on a mission the h is on going to hell, we dive right into the lousy state of the world and the dangers, but once she saves the H, the remainder of the book is set in his cloud kingdom. We don’t see the battle with the big bad (despite the h being integral) or bringing her compound to safety. The h was admired by the H and his warriors, she also had to challenge him constantly to get her opinions heard due to cultural differences and his protectiveness. The attraction is also instant and there's an acknowledgement that more relationship building can come later (there is a bonus scene for the author's newsletter that I did not sign up for).
I didn’t love that the H is so pushy about a physical relationship with the h when she makes it clear that she’s not a ONS kinda gal and she was worried about the other humans left behind at her compound. It's not a dark romance kind of pressure and I don't think I'd classify it as betraying body syndrome either, it's just worth mentioning that the h's not immediately on board with all the lovin that the H keeps emphasizing is on offer.
The steam is well written and I did like how the mate bond worked, including all the information about mate bonds being accessible via scroll thanks to prior human mates, illustrations included lol. The world building around why gargoyles had to look to humans for their mates was lovely and sweet. The H just needed to give things a bit more time and also not talk so much about how pleasing he could be to humans.
Even though they’re 100% mated and happy about it at the end, with a plan in place to try and fix some of the world’s problems, this still felt kind of HFN-ish rather than HEA to me. Possibly because they still had to delve into the getting to know each other phase and since so much still has to happen for the greater world. It’s not even clear what the h will do as queen, though she insists on being active with plans going forward. It’s an entertaining novella and I enjoyed it, with some aspects still lacking a little for me personally. I added book 2 to my TBR because it’s a completely different part of the world and sounded equally engaging.
Written in first person, single POV of h. No ow/om drama and both are experienced, though different levels. The H references the numerous women that he claimed from the ground and brought to his kingdom. None were his mate and they went on to be claimed or mated with others, however, even the h thinks about how there have to be many former lovers of his running around (none ever shown on page). I think the h recollected two past lovers.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Scientist FMC x Gargoyle king MMC
☆ MMC has wings and a prehensile tail
☆ Bad guys include zombies, vampires, and aliens
☆ FMC saves him - he then forces her to come with him to safety
☆ Kingdom made of clouds
☆ Heavy pursuit by MMC
☆ FMC fights the attraction
☆ Mate bond
☆ Humor that veers into zany in places
☆ War planning and strategizing that the FMC insists on taking part in
☆ History books with emoji use 😂
☆ Victory and HEA/HFN
I liked this story for how consumable it was. I did think because it was such an easy read, it stayed fairly shallow. Because the book opens on a mission the h is on going to hell, we dive right into the lousy state of the world and the dangers, but once she saves the H, the remainder of the book is set in his cloud kingdom. We don’t see the battle with the big bad (despite the h being integral) or bringing her compound to safety. The h was admired by the H and his warriors, she also had to challenge him constantly to get her opinions heard due to cultural differences and his protectiveness. The attraction is also instant and there's an acknowledgement that more relationship building can come later (there is a bonus scene for the author's newsletter that I did not sign up for).
I didn’t love that the H is so pushy about a physical relationship with the h when she makes it clear that she’s not a ONS kinda gal and she was worried about the other humans left behind at her compound. It's not a dark romance kind of pressure and I don't think I'd classify it as betraying body syndrome either, it's just worth mentioning that the h's not immediately on board with all the lovin that the H keeps emphasizing is on offer.
The steam is well written and I did like how the mate bond worked, including all the information about mate bonds being accessible via scroll thanks to prior human mates, illustrations included lol. The world building around why gargoyles had to look to humans for their mates was lovely and sweet. The H just needed to give things a bit more time and also not talk so much about how pleasing he could be to humans.
Even though they’re 100% mated and happy about it at the end, with a plan in place to try and fix some of the world’s problems, this still felt kind of HFN-ish rather than HEA to me. Possibly because they still had to delve into the getting to know each other phase and since so much still has to happen for the greater world. It’s not even clear what the h will do as queen, though she insists on being active with plans going forward. It’s an entertaining novella and I enjoyed it, with some aspects still lacking a little for me personally. I added book 2 to my TBR because it’s a completely different part of the world and sounded equally engaging.
June 16, 2025
I got an arc, but my rating/review are my own!
if you are looking for something quick and spicy i recommend it
quotes:
••
"𝕴 𝖘𝖆𝖎𝖉 𝖎 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖊𝖆𝖙 𝖞𝖔𝖚. 𝕴 𝖓𝖊𝖛𝖊𝖗 𝖘𝖆𝖎𝖉 𝕴 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖊𝖆𝖙 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖔𝖚𝖙."
••
"𝓖𝓸𝓭𝓼, 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓰𝓸𝓻𝓰𝓮𝓸𝓾𝓼 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼, 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓯𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓱𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓪𝓻𝓸𝓾𝓼𝓮𝓭."
••
tropes:
☆🍁monster romance
☆🍁post-apocalyptic
☆🍁gargoyle x human
☆🍁fated mates
☆🍁forced proximity
☆🍁tail play
☆🍁banter
if you are looking for something quick and spicy i recommend it
quotes:
••
"𝕴 𝖘𝖆𝖎𝖉 𝖎 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖊𝖆𝖙 𝖞𝖔𝖚. 𝕴 𝖓𝖊𝖛𝖊𝖗 𝖘𝖆𝖎𝖉 𝕴 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖊𝖆𝖙 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖔𝖚𝖙."
••
"𝓖𝓸𝓭𝓼, 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓰𝓸𝓻𝓰𝓮𝓸𝓾𝓼 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼, 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓯𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓱𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓪𝓻𝓸𝓾𝓼𝓮𝓭."
••
tropes:
☆🍁monster romance
☆🍁post-apocalyptic
☆🍁gargoyle x human
☆🍁fated mates
☆🍁forced proximity
☆🍁tail play
☆🍁banter
November 10, 2025
A lovely post apocalyptic romance with fated mates trope, it was cute exploring a post apocalyptic world with danger everywhere while Sue finds her HEA
Sue was very much jaded after having to survive in an apocalypse featuring many different creatures that live in stories and not in real life, vampires, zombies, gargoyles, elves...I liked Sue, liked that she wanted more proof and wouldn't just easily fall, she wanted a reasoning but in the end she got enough as she experienced everything herself.
Xan was a very confident gargoyle (did I mention he is the king? 🙂↕️👑) and after a little bit of time together he feels the mate bond start. Confident but caring towards Sue, only pushing as far as she was comfortable.
While Xan and the army go deal with the head (iykyk) Sue has a little history lesson on her mate, their history and a few points from Xan's mothers scrolls she left behind for the future inhabitants 😂
Thank you very much for the ARC 💕
Sue was very much jaded after having to survive in an apocalypse featuring many different creatures that live in stories and not in real life, vampires, zombies, gargoyles, elves...I liked Sue, liked that she wanted more proof and wouldn't just easily fall, she wanted a reasoning but in the end she got enough as she experienced everything herself.
Xan was a very confident gargoyle (did I mention he is the king? 🙂↕️👑) and after a little bit of time together he feels the mate bond start. Confident but caring towards Sue, only pushing as far as she was comfortable.
While Xan and the army go deal with the head (iykyk) Sue has a little history lesson on her mate, their history and a few points from Xan's mothers scrolls she left behind for the future inhabitants 😂
Thank you very much for the ARC 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2025
This was a super fun read and a great start to a new series!
I've never read a dystopian that went beyond zombies ( who scare the daylights out of me) and include many other types of monsters, but this one does, and I was all for jumping into Xan's arms myself, at the point where Sue is whisked away from the nightmarish scene of zombies and vamps! Take me to the pink clouds ruled over by the blue winged lovers! No really, 'cos they know their stuff....
I also loved how it wasn't just one enclosed story and Marian left many possible openings to new creatures, and new stories, and I am so excited to see where this series goes... I mean elves... YES! Gimme!!!
I've never read a dystopian that went beyond zombies ( who scare the daylights out of me) and include many other types of monsters, but this one does, and I was all for jumping into Xan's arms myself, at the point where Sue is whisked away from the nightmarish scene of zombies and vamps! Take me to the pink clouds ruled over by the blue winged lovers! No really, 'cos they know their stuff....
I also loved how it wasn't just one enclosed story and Marian left many possible openings to new creatures, and new stories, and I am so excited to see where this series goes... I mean elves... YES! Gimme!!!
May 21, 2025
This book took dystopian and romance to the next level! Love how different monsters are coming into light for the different waves of the apocalypse and the good monsters are still looking for their other half.
The story behind how gargoyles soul mate should be a mythology in real life. The fact that Sue was slowly was feeling the side effects from being away from her newly mate but not realizing it was comical.
The story behind how gargoyles soul mate should be a mythology in real life. The fact that Sue was slowly was feeling the side effects from being away from her newly mate but not realizing it was comical.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2025
▸Monster romance
▸Gargoyle x human
▸Post apocalyptic world with monsters
▸Gargoyles, vampires, zombies, aliens
▸STEM woman FMC
▸Fated mates
▸Forced proximity
▸Tail play
▸Banter
▸Novella
▸Interconnected Standalone
Half a year since humans became food for vampires and zombies, this post-apocalyptic story begins when Sue, who was looking for medical supplies, ran away from a group of vampires who were chasing her. When she managed to escape from the vampires, she saw a bat-winged creature (she called it Bat-man) who was being eaten alive by zombies and vampires. then using a sword lying nearby, Sue saved the creature, who turned out to be a king from a gargoyle kingdom in the sky. And not only that, the Bat-man or Xaniban is insisting that she is his fated mate, whom Sue desperately denied because she is skeptical of the concept of a mate bond.
From this...
To this...
I had so much fun reading this!😂😂 at first, Sue was very skeptical about the concept of bonds. she's a stem woman, so she didn't easily believe Xaniban's words about the bond of fated mates, or the side effects of being apart until she finally experienced it herself. Before Xaniban left for war, Sue was very sure she wouldn't feel any side effects when they were apart. When Xaniban left, within a day, she experienced all the side effects listed and started yapping like crazy😂 I really liked that part😂
The story is entertaining and sweet! If you're a fan of monster romance, post-apocalyptic, and sweet-fated mate stories, this is a must read!!✨
▸Gargoyle x human
▸Post apocalyptic world with monsters
▸Gargoyles, vampires, zombies, aliens
▸STEM woman FMC
▸Fated mates
▸Forced proximity
▸Tail play
▸Banter
▸Novella
▸Interconnected Standalone
Half a year since humans became food for vampires and zombies, this post-apocalyptic story begins when Sue, who was looking for medical supplies, ran away from a group of vampires who were chasing her. When she managed to escape from the vampires, she saw a bat-winged creature (she called it Bat-man) who was being eaten alive by zombies and vampires. then using a sword lying nearby, Sue saved the creature, who turned out to be a king from a gargoyle kingdom in the sky. And not only that, the Bat-man or Xaniban is insisting that she is his fated mate, whom Sue desperately denied because she is skeptical of the concept of a mate bond.
From this...
"Enough with this mate crap," I snapped. "You'll be perfectly focused on the battlefield once you realize there is no mate bond. Whoever made it up wanted to manipulate naïve gargoyles like yourself to ensure the continuation of your species."
Xaniban drew his wings away from me, lifted his tail in the air and... smiled.
Huh?
He stepped back, never breaking eye contact. "We will see who is naïve when I return. I, who believe in our mate bond, or you, who deny its very existence. And I promise to return to you, skeptical little human, if only to see your reaction upon our reunion. I shall not fall in wait for that exact moment."
"Ha." I crossed my arms over my chest. "And what reaction would that be?"
"You will see." His smile grew smug.
To this...
"Forget the ice cream! I want Xan back... Why, oh why, didn't I kiss him goodbye?"
"I shall leave my Queen to rest, then. I will be nearby, should you require anything."
"Rest, ha!" I half sobbed, half laughed. "There will be no sleep for me tonight." I snickered as a thought hit me. "I should make me contribution to the Mate Bond Scroll. Grandma hasn't added sleep deprivation to the endless list of side effects of short-term separation. I can draw it, so as to add color to that boring piece of silk. It will depict me with bloodshot eyes and big blue circles around them-Hold on! What if the readers mistake me for a vamp?"
I had so much fun reading this!😂😂 at first, Sue was very skeptical about the concept of bonds. she's a stem woman, so she didn't easily believe Xaniban's words about the bond of fated mates, or the side effects of being apart until she finally experienced it herself. Before Xaniban left for war, Sue was very sure she wouldn't feel any side effects when they were apart. When Xaniban left, within a day, she experienced all the side effects listed and started yapping like crazy😂 I really liked that part😂
The story is entertaining and sweet! If you're a fan of monster romance, post-apocalyptic, and sweet-fated mate stories, this is a must read!!✨
June 17, 2025
Tropes:
Fated Mates, Post-Apocalyptic, Magic World, Tail Play
Characters:
Sue is a scientist trying to obtain medicine from her company’s lab. That lab happened to be the epicenter of the apocalypse. Sue is critical of everything (as you would be post apocalypse) and that includes Xan and the world he introduces her to amid the clouds. Sue has a dry sense of humor but is very likeable. It took me a moment to warm up to Xan because I couldn’t decide if his confidence was attractive or annoying. As Xan became more vulnerable to Sue, I came to appreciate his confidence.
Relationships:
Xan from the beginning is sure of the physical relationship he will have with Sue even as she is not totally sold. That confidence worked for me and apparently worked for Sue. I appreciate how the relationship grows from there and I’m a sucker for fated mates.
World Building: This world was a lot for me. There are multiple apocalyptic events that include zombies, vampires, and an alien invasion. After that the idea that other “monsters” exist should not be so shocking. It was almost comical how many bad events stacked one on top of the other. I look forward to how this world is flushed out in the coming books.
Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book overall. Gargoyles are one of my favorite flavors as far as monster romances go and Xan lives up to that hype. He is confident, cool under pressure, and puts the good of his people over everything. I wish there was more to the ending as it felt a bit rushed. I look forward to reading more from this series to see how other groups of monsters are introduced.
Fated Mates, Post-Apocalyptic, Magic World, Tail Play
Characters:
Sue is a scientist trying to obtain medicine from her company’s lab. That lab happened to be the epicenter of the apocalypse. Sue is critical of everything (as you would be post apocalypse) and that includes Xan and the world he introduces her to amid the clouds. Sue has a dry sense of humor but is very likeable. It took me a moment to warm up to Xan because I couldn’t decide if his confidence was attractive or annoying. As Xan became more vulnerable to Sue, I came to appreciate his confidence.
Relationships:
Xan from the beginning is sure of the physical relationship he will have with Sue even as she is not totally sold. That confidence worked for me and apparently worked for Sue. I appreciate how the relationship grows from there and I’m a sucker for fated mates.
World Building: This world was a lot for me. There are multiple apocalyptic events that include zombies, vampires, and an alien invasion. After that the idea that other “monsters” exist should not be so shocking. It was almost comical how many bad events stacked one on top of the other. I look forward to how this world is flushed out in the coming books.
Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book overall. Gargoyles are one of my favorite flavors as far as monster romances go and Xan lives up to that hype. He is confident, cool under pressure, and puts the good of his people over everything. I wish there was more to the ending as it felt a bit rushed. I look forward to reading more from this series to see how other groups of monsters are introduced.
May 25, 2025
I’m so excited to see a new series from this author, I adored her other books! Whenever I read a more sci-fi read I can always depend on her to deliver, which is also the case with this book as well. I haven’t read many apocalypse books so this was a really interesting concept; the world was taken over by zombies in the first wave, vampires and supernaturals in the second wave and then finally aliens in the third wave. It’s basically a case of supernatural beings getting tired of living in the shadows and taking over the world. She finds herself saving a being she’s never seen before from zombies, who turns out to be a Gargoyle King, who whisks her away to his palace in the sky.
These two have chemistry from the very beginning, with him being set on pleasuring her and her trying her best to stay strong. The attraction is immediate and the spice was super steamy. I love how forward and direct Xan was when it came to Sue, telling her exactly what he wanted and following through. The two things that bothered me while reading were, the whole time they were together, I was thinking about her community of survivors. I wanted her to bring them up sooner but technically it was only two days. Things moved very fast and I felt like Sue lost her bad ass edge a bit once she was with Xan. However, I’m excited to see her take on her new world goals in the next book! I trust we haven’t seen the last of Badass Sue!
These two have chemistry from the very beginning, with him being set on pleasuring her and her trying her best to stay strong. The attraction is immediate and the spice was super steamy. I love how forward and direct Xan was when it came to Sue, telling her exactly what he wanted and following through. The two things that bothered me while reading were, the whole time they were together, I was thinking about her community of survivors. I wanted her to bring them up sooner but technically it was only two days. Things moved very fast and I felt like Sue lost her bad ass edge a bit once she was with Xan. However, I’m excited to see her take on her new world goals in the next book! I trust we haven’t seen the last of Badass Sue!
June 15, 2025
His unwavering belief in us being meant to be together was so intense that I couldn't help but question my own beliefs.
-----
Content warning (not a complete list)
Mention of gore, battle with monsters, mention of parental death.
For more info check out the content warning in the book.
-----
About the book
Part of Brave New World series. Book 1
Standalone?: Yes
Written in: First person POV.
Spice: medium
-----
Amid the Clouds is a monster romance about a tough scientist who ends up falling for the gargoyle she rescued. This book was hilarious with some sexy moments. If you want a cute and creative monster romance that takes place in a post apocalyptic world, consider reading this.
I liked the fmc. I liked that Sue was curious and willing help her community. I loved that she didn't back down from Xaniban and stood up for herself. It made Sue a good match for Xaniban. He needed someone that wouldn't kiss up to him and challenge him. I liked the romance, but I wanted more scenes with them.
The world was intriguing to me. It was neat finding more about the history of the zombies and the gargoyles. There were so many funny bits of dialogue. And moments, like when Sue looked at the handrawn scrolls by Xaniban's mom. I enjoyed reading this and had a fun time.
This was an arc read. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
-----
Content warning (not a complete list)
Mention of gore, battle with monsters, mention of parental death.
For more info check out the content warning in the book.
-----
About the book
Part of Brave New World series. Book 1
Standalone?: Yes
Written in: First person POV.
Spice: medium
-----
Amid the Clouds is a monster romance about a tough scientist who ends up falling for the gargoyle she rescued. This book was hilarious with some sexy moments. If you want a cute and creative monster romance that takes place in a post apocalyptic world, consider reading this.
I liked the fmc. I liked that Sue was curious and willing help her community. I loved that she didn't back down from Xaniban and stood up for herself. It made Sue a good match for Xaniban. He needed someone that wouldn't kiss up to him and challenge him. I liked the romance, but I wanted more scenes with them.
The world was intriguing to me. It was neat finding more about the history of the zombies and the gargoyles. There were so many funny bits of dialogue. And moments, like when Sue looked at the handrawn scrolls by Xaniban's mom. I enjoyed reading this and had a fun time.
This was an arc read. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
December 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐
An apocalypse x3 isn't enough to stop fate, Sue and Xaniban are here to prove that. Zombies, vampires, aliens, oh my!!! One thing after another battered Earth until very few humans are left fighting for survival. While out on a supply run at her former place of employment, ground zero for the zombie infection, Sue finds herself outnumbered and overrun. Able to formulate a plan and quickly put it in motion she makes her way to the top floor where she sees zombies feasting on a Gargoyle. Taking advantage of her enemies distraction Sue begins her escape but quickly turns around, unable to leave the gargoyle behind. This change of course literally changes her life and everything she knows, all with the simple touch of a wing.
Ahhhh I loved this so much. Fated mates here to do it's thing, yet again and I'm here to happily eat it up like it's the first time. Two halves to one whole coming together again in spite of the gods, yes more of that please!!!! And the call has already been answered with book 2 right around the corner. I cannot wait to see these creatures battle to save Earth and the humans!
An apocalypse x3 isn't enough to stop fate, Sue and Xaniban are here to prove that. Zombies, vampires, aliens, oh my!!! One thing after another battered Earth until very few humans are left fighting for survival. While out on a supply run at her former place of employment, ground zero for the zombie infection, Sue finds herself outnumbered and overrun. Able to formulate a plan and quickly put it in motion she makes her way to the top floor where she sees zombies feasting on a Gargoyle. Taking advantage of her enemies distraction Sue begins her escape but quickly turns around, unable to leave the gargoyle behind. This change of course literally changes her life and everything she knows, all with the simple touch of a wing.
Ahhhh I loved this so much. Fated mates here to do it's thing, yet again and I'm here to happily eat it up like it's the first time. Two halves to one whole coming together again in spite of the gods, yes more of that please!!!! And the call has already been answered with book 2 right around the corner. I cannot wait to see these creatures battle to save Earth and the humans!
July 8, 2025
This book made me giddy!
I went in blind, only knowing it was set in a post-apocalyptic world with monsters. But did I expect zombies and bloodsuckers? Nope. Aliens? Definitely not. And I LOVED every second of it!
The chaos kicks off right in the workplace of our FMC, and from there, it spirals in the best way. This world has survived three apocalyptic events and that absolutely blew my mind.
We’ve got world stealing monsters, yes, but there are also mentions of elves, mermaids, and the crème de la crème… gargoyles. Hazel, our main girl, meets the gargoyle king while she’s out on a supply run for her compound. Things aren’t exactly going smoothly when they cross paths but she saves his life. Naturally, he rewards her the only way a gargoyle king knows how: by whisking her away to his cloud kingdom. IYKYK 👀
The world-building? 100% my vibe. If this were a movie, it would be my ultimate comfort film. It’s chaotic, it’s cute, and the plot is actually really solid.
I’m so excited for the rest of this series! 🩷
I went in blind, only knowing it was set in a post-apocalyptic world with monsters. But did I expect zombies and bloodsuckers? Nope. Aliens? Definitely not. And I LOVED every second of it!
The chaos kicks off right in the workplace of our FMC, and from there, it spirals in the best way. This world has survived three apocalyptic events and that absolutely blew my mind.
We’ve got world stealing monsters, yes, but there are also mentions of elves, mermaids, and the crème de la crème… gargoyles. Hazel, our main girl, meets the gargoyle king while she’s out on a supply run for her compound. Things aren’t exactly going smoothly when they cross paths but she saves his life. Naturally, he rewards her the only way a gargoyle king knows how: by whisking her away to his cloud kingdom. IYKYK 👀
The world-building? 100% my vibe. If this were a movie, it would be my ultimate comfort film. It’s chaotic, it’s cute, and the plot is actually really solid.
I’m so excited for the rest of this series! 🩷
May 28, 2025
"Love wasn’t impossible; it was simply deadly."
Sue got trapped in a building overrun with zombies and vampires. However, she made a decision to save Xaniban, the gargoyle king, and in turn, he saved her. She was brought into his world amid the clouds. (see what I did there ;) lol)
It's such fun to read a refreshing take on the alien monster romance but make it dystopian. This book dealt with apocalypse with monsters also fighting one another with humans being the weakest one. Poor us.
Sue was headfast strong and very smart, and she's also kind especially she risked her life to save Xaniban. She also was keeping her guards up and shielding her heart, as she should. Xaniban, on the otherhand was very h*rny for her lol. He's not afraid to be a softie for Sue in front of his people (or gargoyles).
I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
Sue got trapped in a building overrun with zombies and vampires. However, she made a decision to save Xaniban, the gargoyle king, and in turn, he saved her. She was brought into his world amid the clouds. (see what I did there ;) lol)
It's such fun to read a refreshing take on the alien monster romance but make it dystopian. This book dealt with apocalypse with monsters also fighting one another with humans being the weakest one. Poor us.
Sue was headfast strong and very smart, and she's also kind especially she risked her life to save Xaniban. She also was keeping her guards up and shielding her heart, as she should. Xaniban, on the otherhand was very h*rny for her lol. He's not afraid to be a softie for Sue in front of his people (or gargoyles).
I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
June 9, 2025
Sue is desperately trying to get supplies for her community. After apocalypse three, the remaining humans have to fight for their survival every single day. When she stumbles across a stranger, who's about to die in an attack, she can't help herself but safe him. She doesn't count on him being a stubborn gargoyle, who is determined to bring her to his homecloud and mate until she can't walk straight....
This book is so fun!! Two stubborn beings colliding, trying to make the other one see sense, Sue asking a thousand questions a minutes (for science!) and Xaniban determined to make her see stars (actual and others).
If you like headstrong women, males with an impressive wing-span and fated mates, you should definitely read 'Amid the Clouds'!!
I love this new world Marian created and can't wait to explore more of it in the future!!
This book is so fun!! Two stubborn beings colliding, trying to make the other one see sense, Sue asking a thousand questions a minutes (for science!) and Xaniban determined to make her see stars (actual and others).
If you like headstrong women, males with an impressive wing-span and fated mates, you should definitely read 'Amid the Clouds'!!
I love this new world Marian created and can't wait to explore more of it in the future!!
September 2, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: I want to live in Starry Hill. Who needs reality, especially this timeline when you could live and love in Starry Hill? This story has SO MUCH "found family" influence that it could melt even a heart made of stone. You get such a strong sense of community, friendship, and love from all these characters. Our main characters, Ren and Maisie are both loveable and sweet individuals and together it's just wholesomeness and love squared. They bring out the absolute best in each other which is pretty much the best thing you could want from a relationship is someone who is on your team, pushes you in good ways, supports you, and loves you so very much. And these two exemplify those characteristics which is heart meltingly wonderful. This story put my head and my heart in the clouds and I never want to come down. 5/5 Stars
January 22, 2026
Amid the Clouds was such a fun read! This is book one in the Brave New World series, and it immediately had me hooked with its chaotic post-apocalyptic energy and monster romance flair. Xaniban (a gargoyle) had me absolutely cackling at the start with his complete confidence that he and Sue were obviously going to claim each other. He did not waste a single second. Sue’s resistance to their bond was almost annoying, but it definitely made sense given her scientist brain and the fact that she’s survived multiple apocalypses by relying on logic.
The banter is great, the pacing stays strong, and the spice definitely delivers (and yes, there’s tail play!). Beyond the romance, I really liked how the worldbuilding hints at something much bigger unfolding. By the end, I was fully invested and can't wait to know how we’re going to save the world. I’ll absolutely be continuing this series.
The banter is great, the pacing stays strong, and the spice definitely delivers (and yes, there’s tail play!). Beyond the romance, I really liked how the worldbuilding hints at something much bigger unfolding. By the end, I was fully invested and can't wait to know how we’re going to save the world. I’ll absolutely be continuing this series.
May 26, 2025
Another amazing read by Marian!
I DEVOURED Amid The Clouds, and I am so excited to read the second book in the series. Read this if you like:
- Monster romance / PNR
- Romantic gargoyle kings who would do anything for their FMCs
- Scientist FMCs with a great sense of humour
- Mating bond
- Apocalyptic settings
- Monsters (gargoyles, vampires, zombies, pixies, etc...) & aliens
- Royal palaces floating amid clouds
- Spice!!!!
This novel is so spicy - I LOVED IT :p
The FMC is stubborn and cynical with a great sense of humour that had me laughing so hard throughout the novel. Her chemistry with the MMC was uncanny. And I can't wait to know if they'll come back later in the upcoming books.
Thanks for a great read, Marian!
I DEVOURED Amid The Clouds, and I am so excited to read the second book in the series. Read this if you like:
- Monster romance / PNR
- Romantic gargoyle kings who would do anything for their FMCs
- Scientist FMCs with a great sense of humour
- Mating bond
- Apocalyptic settings
- Monsters (gargoyles, vampires, zombies, pixies, etc...) & aliens
- Royal palaces floating amid clouds
- Spice!!!!
This novel is so spicy - I LOVED IT :p
The FMC is stubborn and cynical with a great sense of humour that had me laughing so hard throughout the novel. Her chemistry with the MMC was uncanny. And I can't wait to know if they'll come back later in the upcoming books.
Thanks for a great read, Marian!
June 16, 2025
Characters: Sue & Xan
Spice: 4/5
Call me bias, but I am a fan of Ms.Pattechat!! This book like her others did not disappoint. Sue & Xan are great to begin the Brave new world series. Sue is a strong FMC who definitely did not sign up for what occurred but took it like a champ. She is a quick thinker and selfless. Xan is a hot cutie patootie who was obsessed with Sue as soon as he laid on her. He knew from the start Sue was his and was patient with her resistance to be with him. **Warning:Spoiler ahead:"
Overall the story was a 5/5 for me and I recommend. It is a quick and enjoyable read and funny!
Spice: 4/5
Call me bias, but I am a fan of Ms.Pattechat!! This book like her others did not disappoint. Sue & Xan are great to begin the Brave new world series. Sue is a strong FMC who definitely did not sign up for what occurred but took it like a champ. She is a quick thinker and selfless. Xan is a hot cutie patootie who was obsessed with Sue as soon as he laid on her. He knew from the start Sue was his and was patient with her resistance to be with him. **Warning:Spoiler ahead:"
Overall the story was a 5/5 for me and I recommend. It is a quick and enjoyable read and funny!
July 28, 2025
Thank you Marian for this eARC!
This was a short novella with plenty of laughs and the perfect amount of spice.
Sue is living through her THIRD apocolypse, running away from Zombies and Vamps and various other monsters. She's on a supply run when she sees a NEW monster and saves him from death... and yes he is a gargoyle...
What follows is a fun story of Sue and Xaniban realising they are simply meant to be, and nothing can get in there way by the end! Sue is very headstrong and knows what she wants, but Xaniban is determined to show her a good time.
I loved this so much, it was a brilliant first book and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
This was a short novella with plenty of laughs and the perfect amount of spice.
Sue is living through her THIRD apocolypse, running away from Zombies and Vamps and various other monsters. She's on a supply run when she sees a NEW monster and saves him from death... and yes he is a gargoyle...
What follows is a fun story of Sue and Xaniban realising they are simply meant to be, and nothing can get in there way by the end! Sue is very headstrong and knows what she wants, but Xaniban is determined to show her a good time.
I loved this so much, it was a brilliant first book and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
May 26, 2025
Set at the end of the world after zombies and aliens have taken over. Sue - a scientist is hunting for medicines. In doing so saves the life of a 'bat-man' who becomes instantly obsessed with her.
Xaniban is Prince of his home cloud and is absolutely hillarious, with a dirty mouth to accompany it.
Hes instantly enamored with his little human who fights him all the way and won't be left out.
This was such a fun, enjoyable read!
Xaniban is Prince of his home cloud and is absolutely hillarious, with a dirty mouth to accompany it.
Hes instantly enamored with his little human who fights him all the way and won't be left out.
This was such a fun, enjoyable read!
June 4, 2025
Really sweet story set on Earth after an apocalypse.
Earth is ravaged by zombies and then by vampires. The mythical creatures that shared our world but kept hidden surface to save Earth.
Sue, trying to find medicine to help save her fellow humans, unknowingly saves a gargoyle who claims she's his mate.
I mean who wouldn't fall for a sexy gargoyle with a palace in the clouds?
On my list of feel good romances for when I just want that heartwarming feeling.
Earth is ravaged by zombies and then by vampires. The mythical creatures that shared our world but kept hidden surface to save Earth.
Sue, trying to find medicine to help save her fellow humans, unknowingly saves a gargoyle who claims she's his mate.
I mean who wouldn't fall for a sexy gargoyle with a palace in the clouds?
On my list of feel good romances for when I just want that heartwarming feeling.
July 14, 2025
Okay, Sue🙄… make up your mind, girl! One minute you’re amazing. The next you’re giving me whiplash with your hard-to-get act. Annoying? Check. Adorable? Also, check. The author did a fantastic job making me feel Sue’s inner chaos—like, I get it, but also, Sue, please.
Now, Xaniban? SWOON. Hot, lovable, and zero mixed signals. Why can’t everyone be like him? 😏
Verdict: Sue took me into a rollercoaster of emotions, but Xaniban alone is worth the ride. 🎢🔥
Now, Xaniban? SWOON. Hot, lovable, and zero mixed signals. Why can’t everyone be like him? 😏
Verdict: Sue took me into a rollercoaster of emotions, but Xaniban alone is worth the ride. 🎢🔥
June 16, 2025
I don't want to live during an apocalypse...but if I did, I would want it to turn out like Sue's happily Era after!
Marian is a genius in her writing, mixing the Dystopian and Romance genre so seamlessly! I've loved each of Marian's book and this is just as good as the rest!
As always, Marian writes super strong FMCs who have you cheering them on right from the first page! Sue is no different. The way she puts herself at risk for those in her community that cannot help themselves is commendable! I was so glad she never left that mission behind.
Xan is everything you could want in an MMC. I mean, a gargoyle soul mate who is the ruler of his tribe of other hunky gargoyles, and want to stop the mayhem that's destroying earth. Yes, please! Get me the first flight to the cloudy destination they live on! 💜🩷
Ad always, Marian turns up the heat and has you sweating when things heat up between the MCs!
This was another amazing book from Marian Pattechat and I highly recommend picking it up, ASAP!
Marian is a genius in her writing, mixing the Dystopian and Romance genre so seamlessly! I've loved each of Marian's book and this is just as good as the rest!
As always, Marian writes super strong FMCs who have you cheering them on right from the first page! Sue is no different. The way she puts herself at risk for those in her community that cannot help themselves is commendable! I was so glad she never left that mission behind.
Xan is everything you could want in an MMC. I mean, a gargoyle soul mate who is the ruler of his tribe of other hunky gargoyles, and want to stop the mayhem that's destroying earth. Yes, please! Get me the first flight to the cloudy destination they live on! 💜🩷
Ad always, Marian turns up the heat and has you sweating when things heat up between the MCs!
This was another amazing book from Marian Pattechat and I highly recommend picking it up, ASAP!
June 1, 2025
Very cute, very fun and quick read featuring fated mates, a stubborn and resilient FMC and a sexy Gargoyle MMC with witty come backs for days. A great first installment in the series! Sue and Xaniban's relationship will have you feeling warm and fuzzy for the apocalypse.
June 18, 2025
This was a lot of fun to read! It's so different than other monster romance I've read and I enjoyed every minute of it! It's a world id love to jump in if I could have the mmc as my own! Id forget that there has been 3 apocalypses and he happy right there with him!
Want to read
December 16, 2025Brave New World Series :
❌ 1. Amid the Clouds: A Fantasy Monster Romance (June 16, 2025) -
❌ 2. Under the Woods: A Fantasy Monster Romance (Expected publication December 16, 2025) -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F88WG6HT?...
❌ 1. Amid the Clouds: A Fantasy Monster Romance (June 16, 2025) -
❌ 2. Under the Woods: A Fantasy Monster Romance (Expected publication December 16, 2025) -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F88WG6HT?...
August 30, 2025
Cute, quirky, and light-hearted, this has Marian's signature mix of steam, humour, and a happy ending! This series starter is such a fun romp, and left me needing the next book immediately!
December 22, 2025
A quick and spicy monster romance read. I wasn't expecting the post-apocalyptic/fantasy/zombie crossover, but it was a lot of fun!
December 31, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️
3.0/5 🔥
☁️ Apocalyptic world
🩷 Monster romance
☁️ Gargoyle MMC x Human FMC
🩷 Fated mates
3.0/5 🔥
☁️ Apocalyptic world
🩷 Monster romance
☁️ Gargoyle MMC x Human FMC
🩷 Fated mates
January 2, 2026
too much coercion and not enough grovelling from said coercion
June 7, 2025
4 stars, 3 spice
Sue & Xan
If you want an OTT gargoyle alien living in a cloud to save you from zombies/vampires/aliens in the (three) apocalypses, then give this a read. Oh and he turns out to be your fated mate, even better.
This was a quick read, and focused on the relationship between the MCs rather than the underlying apocalypse plot. I liked that Sue had a backbone and kept her people and their situation in mind. Xan was a sweetheart and a good ruler, though pretty pushy (fitting with his culture by the sounds of it though).
Can’t wait to see where the next one goes!
Thank you to the author for the ARC
Sue & Xan
If you want an OTT gargoyle alien living in a cloud to save you from zombies/vampires/aliens in the (three) apocalypses, then give this a read. Oh and he turns out to be your fated mate, even better.
This was a quick read, and focused on the relationship between the MCs rather than the underlying apocalypse plot. I liked that Sue had a backbone and kept her people and their situation in mind. Xan was a sweetheart and a good ruler, though pretty pushy (fitting with his culture by the sounds of it though).
Can’t wait to see where the next one goes!
Thank you to the author for the ARC
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