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Where the Shadows Land: A Monster Romance
A broken woman. A lonely monster. A bargain written in blood.
Astoria has lost everything. Sickness stole her husband, and her daughter never drew breath. The vicious mushroom-like monsters burned her home to ashes, and with it, every memory of the life she built. She flees, but in the silent village she hoped would aid her, she discovers a lone, ethereal mushroom monster.
Mairuk has lived alone for a decade, rebuilding the home the humans ruined in the memory of their beloved. When Astoria stumbles in, they know they can’t let her live. But Astoria is not only soft and full of the magic they need; there’s a haunted look in her eyes. One Mairuk knows too well. Their bargain grants her mercy on one she never leaves.
Leaving her past behind feels like a betrayal of her long-dead husband. Mairuk is an enemy, a monster, and not someone Astoria should want. No matter how darkly beautiful they are.
Stuck between her desire to heal from all she suffered and the bottomless pit of her grief, Astoria can’t decide if she wants Mairuk as her lover or the one who puts an end to her suffering.
Where the Shadows Land is a Dark Fantasy Monster Romance with a mentally ill FMC and a genderless mushroom monster with special 'equipment'. It's the first book in the Garden of Hope series of interconnected standalones and ends in an HEA.
Astoria has lost everything. Sickness stole her husband, and her daughter never drew breath. The vicious mushroom-like monsters burned her home to ashes, and with it, every memory of the life she built. She flees, but in the silent village she hoped would aid her, she discovers a lone, ethereal mushroom monster.
Mairuk has lived alone for a decade, rebuilding the home the humans ruined in the memory of their beloved. When Astoria stumbles in, they know they can’t let her live. But Astoria is not only soft and full of the magic they need; there’s a haunted look in her eyes. One Mairuk knows too well. Their bargain grants her mercy on one she never leaves.
Leaving her past behind feels like a betrayal of her long-dead husband. Mairuk is an enemy, a monster, and not someone Astoria should want. No matter how darkly beautiful they are.
Stuck between her desire to heal from all she suffered and the bottomless pit of her grief, Astoria can’t decide if she wants Mairuk as her lover or the one who puts an end to her suffering.
Where the Shadows Land is a Dark Fantasy Monster Romance with a mentally ill FMC and a genderless mushroom monster with special 'equipment'. It's the first book in the Garden of Hope series of interconnected standalones and ends in an HEA.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2025
15 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Autumn Hawthorne
5 books33 followersAutumn Hawthorne is a feral bi goblin who writes spicy, queer Fantasy Romance with monsters and a little otherworldly twist. Autumn has written all of her life, and has dozens of ideas she’s trying to type out as fast as her little fingers will go. When she isn’t writing, Autumn plays video games, practices witchcraft, and yaps to anyone who will listen about her current read!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 1, 2025
Thanks so much to the author for sending me an ARC!
This was honestly such a beautiful exploration of grief and finding your way out of it and the romance was so sweet and healing
This was honestly such a beautiful exploration of grief and finding your way out of it and the romance was so sweet and healing
July 27, 2025
ARC Review: I really enjoyed how descriptive the author was, especially since I struggle to mentally picture characters. Mairuk being what they are concerned me at first but the description worked well for me! I feel like the beginning could’ve been drawn out a little more, at least explaining the magic/religion of the world but other than that this book had a nice pace! The ending came together so well and the spice was SPICING! In my opinion, the story had some “Beauty and the Beast” vibes, which I really love!
July 29, 2025
4 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
Huge thank you to Autumn for providing me with an advanced copy of Where The Shadows Land! As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
“You are perfect for us. A dream. A wildfire given flesh, and you have brought light back to our world. Every day, for the rest of our bound existence, we will do everything in our power to prove ourselves to you.”
WOW where do I even start here? This book contains so many real, relatable and heavy topics such as loss and pain and grief, and we get to traverse alongside Astoria and Mairuk as they go on their healing journey.
This book broke me in so many ways, and it brought on some long suppressed feelings but my god was it good! Getting to see the growth and the trust build between the FMC and MMC, as they discover they suffer the same loss and pain, and slowly grow to something more was healing in its own little way.
—————————————————————————
Astoria lost her husband to a sickness and her daughter was stillborn. After losing everything, she’s lived in a constant state of grief and pain, barely able to function on a day to day basis.
Mairuk lost their partner and their young, as well as everyone in their garden to humans who set is ablaze. Lost in their own grief, they lived solely to rebuilt the garden and uphold the memory of the ones they lost. Even if they had to do it alone.
The night a group of Ardeloks came to Astoria’s village to raze it to the ground, the magic she kept at bay, or risk death, surged and turned her into her other form, a large red fox. With little choice, Astoria ran from her village with her familiar Bastian.. for days she ran, until she found refuge in a secluded garden, but little did she know, she’d run into the hands of her enemy.
Upon discovery, the Twelve that Make Mairuk come to an agreement, and a mutually beneficial pact is made between them and Astoria. From this point forward, is it a battle of wills, emotions and grief... can these two set aside their differences and start along their healing journey? Or will they be lost to the shadows forever?
Huge thank you to Autumn for providing me with an advanced copy of Where The Shadows Land! As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
“You are perfect for us. A dream. A wildfire given flesh, and you have brought light back to our world. Every day, for the rest of our bound existence, we will do everything in our power to prove ourselves to you.”
WOW where do I even start here? This book contains so many real, relatable and heavy topics such as loss and pain and grief, and we get to traverse alongside Astoria and Mairuk as they go on their healing journey.
This book broke me in so many ways, and it brought on some long suppressed feelings but my god was it good! Getting to see the growth and the trust build between the FMC and MMC, as they discover they suffer the same loss and pain, and slowly grow to something more was healing in its own little way.
—————————————————————————
Astoria lost her husband to a sickness and her daughter was stillborn. After losing everything, she’s lived in a constant state of grief and pain, barely able to function on a day to day basis.
Mairuk lost their partner and their young, as well as everyone in their garden to humans who set is ablaze. Lost in their own grief, they lived solely to rebuilt the garden and uphold the memory of the ones they lost. Even if they had to do it alone.
The night a group of Ardeloks came to Astoria’s village to raze it to the ground, the magic she kept at bay, or risk death, surged and turned her into her other form, a large red fox. With little choice, Astoria ran from her village with her familiar Bastian.. for days she ran, until she found refuge in a secluded garden, but little did she know, she’d run into the hands of her enemy.
Upon discovery, the Twelve that Make Mairuk come to an agreement, and a mutually beneficial pact is made between them and Astoria. From this point forward, is it a battle of wills, emotions and grief... can these two set aside their differences and start along their healing journey? Or will they be lost to the shadows forever?
July 28, 2025
She's back at it again. Autumn Hawthorne has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and this one genuinely might be my favorite yet.
Astoria has lost everything, her family, her home. Grief strikes and cast out she seeks refuge in an abandoned village deep in Rholctai territory where terrifying mushroom like monsters roam. However, when she encounters Mairuk, a lonely, enigmatic creature who sees her as a means to an end she finds herself bound by a bargain. Mairuk is everything she should not want, an enemy let alone, monster. A constant reminder of what she has lost and yet, their presence slowly begins to soothe the ache of her grief. Torn between her love for the past and the possibilities of a future and healing she begins to contemplate whether she will let herself live again or let the pain consume her finally.
Everything about this story was devastatingly beautiful. The grief, the pain, the self-acceptance, the journey of healing was written with so much raw authenticity that I could feel Astoria's heartbreak in my chest. And Mairuk? I am utterly obsessed with them. The care and love, the way they see the broken pieces of this human and make space for it. My heart could barley contain itself. I have been searching for a monster romance that could make me fall as deeply as the duskwalker brides series and while some have come close and I have loved many they were never there. But this? This is it. This is everything I have wanted.
I encourage you to pick up this tender and haunting monster romance. I am so thankful to have received an ARC of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily with my honest opinion. Can't wait to get my shelf copy.
Astoria has lost everything, her family, her home. Grief strikes and cast out she seeks refuge in an abandoned village deep in Rholctai territory where terrifying mushroom like monsters roam. However, when she encounters Mairuk, a lonely, enigmatic creature who sees her as a means to an end she finds herself bound by a bargain. Mairuk is everything she should not want, an enemy let alone, monster. A constant reminder of what she has lost and yet, their presence slowly begins to soothe the ache of her grief. Torn between her love for the past and the possibilities of a future and healing she begins to contemplate whether she will let herself live again or let the pain consume her finally.
Everything about this story was devastatingly beautiful. The grief, the pain, the self-acceptance, the journey of healing was written with so much raw authenticity that I could feel Astoria's heartbreak in my chest. And Mairuk? I am utterly obsessed with them. The care and love, the way they see the broken pieces of this human and make space for it. My heart could barley contain itself. I have been searching for a monster romance that could make me fall as deeply as the duskwalker brides series and while some have come close and I have loved many they were never there. But this? This is it. This is everything I have wanted.
I encourage you to pick up this tender and haunting monster romance. I am so thankful to have received an ARC of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily with my honest opinion. Can't wait to get my shelf copy.
August 13, 2025
Autumn writes so beautifully and such amazing worlds. She's descriptive and writes about grief and healing and the journey to love so well you get drawn in and never want to leave. If you wanted to know what it would've been like to romance Sovereign Spaw I think this is as close as we are going to get! Overall enjoyed the read and would recommend!
August 19, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: This was such a unique read! The writing style is somewhat of a high fantasy in terms of word choice and sentence structure, especially when we're getting inner dialogue from Mairuk/ The Twelve who Made Mairuk. I loved how the author wrote in such a way that it feels like the world is being filled in from both POV's layered on top of one another since Astoria and Mairuk view the world SO differently. But as different as the characters are, they're kindred spirits in the depth of their grief for lost loved ones. As The Twelve who Made Mairuk is a system within one body, hearing their inner discussions and differing opinions on decisions both big and small is totally fascinating. The Twelve who Made Mairuk are all extremely distinct and at first hardly any of them are in support of Astoria being allowed to live when she stumbles into Mairuk's garden. All of The Twelve who Made Mairuk recognize the deep grief in Astoria, even if only a few feel sympathetic towards her at first. But the shared experience of grief and loss forms a bridge for these two to get to know each other and grow to trust each other as well.
The way the author describes grief/mourning feels very realistic, which to me is comforting because a lot of the time when you're grieving loss you can feel so alone and unlovable. Being able to see grieving in such nuanced ways was deeply engrossing and I especially loved Astoria and Bastian!
"Bastian pawed her thigh and nudged her arm. Astoria lifted the fluffy creature into her arms and cried into his orange fur. The tiny fox kit she found on her doorstep a month to the day after her daughter’s stillbirth was the only reason she didn’t follow her family into the grave. He was someone who needed her, and he kept her company when Blythe could not. With Bastian, she was never alone." I have an emotional support cat who came into my life by screaming at me from my back porch at a low point in my life and she is the best part of every day. So, seeing the relationship between Astoria and Bastian really meant a lot to me.
In terms of the romance and spice this book is outstanding and the unique anatomy description is 10/10. If you, like me, are a fan of the Ice Planet Barbarians series and the unique anatomy let me tell you how much you're going to love the Rholctai with their Olctae and Kastae because it's A LOT. Loved this book and I highly recommend it. 5/5 Stars
The way the author describes grief/mourning feels very realistic, which to me is comforting because a lot of the time when you're grieving loss you can feel so alone and unlovable. Being able to see grieving in such nuanced ways was deeply engrossing and I especially loved Astoria and Bastian!
"Bastian pawed her thigh and nudged her arm. Astoria lifted the fluffy creature into her arms and cried into his orange fur. The tiny fox kit she found on her doorstep a month to the day after her daughter’s stillbirth was the only reason she didn’t follow her family into the grave. He was someone who needed her, and he kept her company when Blythe could not. With Bastian, she was never alone." I have an emotional support cat who came into my life by screaming at me from my back porch at a low point in my life and she is the best part of every day. So, seeing the relationship between Astoria and Bastian really meant a lot to me.
In terms of the romance and spice this book is outstanding and the unique anatomy description is 10/10. If you, like me, are a fan of the Ice Planet Barbarians series and the unique anatomy let me tell you how much you're going to love the Rholctai with their Olctae and Kastae because it's A LOT. Loved this book and I highly recommend it. 5/5 Stars
July 16, 2025
Where the Shadows Land is a brutal, beautiful exploration of grief, healing, and self-acceptance—with a dose of monsters and spice I didn’t expect to work, but somehow absolutely did. I’ll admit I was hesitant to start this one. Monster romance isn’t usually my thing, but after loving Woven by Fate, I trusted Autumn Hawthorne enough to give it a chance. I’m so glad I did.
Astoria’s journey hit me harder than I could have imagined. Her grief—raw, isolating, and so achingly familiar—made this book a deeply emotional experience. I’ve never felt so seen by a character before. This line in particular stopped me in my tracks:
“Her life would never be a happy one. It hadn't been, and that would not change. She was too normal to be extraordinary at anything, and yet she was too strange to find genuine acceptance.”
That quote alone told me I was reading something special.
Hawthorne’s writing is just as strong here as ever—lyrical, immersive, and perfectly balanced between description, dialogue, and internal reflection. Yes, the spice is there (and intense!), but the emotional core is what really hooked me. It made the darker parts worth pushing through.
That said, this book isn’t for everyone. The themes are heavy, and there are multiple trigger warnings that should be taken seriously. If you’re in a fragile place with your own grief, consider waiting until you're ready. But if you’re looking for a story that dares to look at pain head-on and still find hope in the shadows, this one is worth the journey.
Astoria’s journey hit me harder than I could have imagined. Her grief—raw, isolating, and so achingly familiar—made this book a deeply emotional experience. I’ve never felt so seen by a character before. This line in particular stopped me in my tracks:
“Her life would never be a happy one. It hadn't been, and that would not change. She was too normal to be extraordinary at anything, and yet she was too strange to find genuine acceptance.”
That quote alone told me I was reading something special.
Hawthorne’s writing is just as strong here as ever—lyrical, immersive, and perfectly balanced between description, dialogue, and internal reflection. Yes, the spice is there (and intense!), but the emotional core is what really hooked me. It made the darker parts worth pushing through.
That said, this book isn’t for everyone. The themes are heavy, and there are multiple trigger warnings that should be taken seriously. If you’re in a fragile place with your own grief, consider waiting until you're ready. But if you’re looking for a story that dares to look at pain head-on and still find hope in the shadows, this one is worth the journey.
August 11, 2025
Thank you Autumn Hawthorne for sending me this advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is one of those outstanding books that you want to slowly savor.
There is a constant undercurrent of intense grief, especially child and partner loss through the entire book. There were times I had to set the book down for a little bit, because it made me tear up. The emotions were so real and you could feel how overwhelming they were for both Mairuk and Astoria. It felt real, actually real.
This was honestly the most unique book I've read in a long time. Mairuk is hands down the most interesting monster I've ever seen. The way the 12 different fungal entities coexist in their body and have their own voices is absolutely fascinating. It is so cool that it is an ecosystem instead of just a regular monster like we usually see. I've never read anything like it, and the detail is incredible.
Autumn wasn't kidding about the level of spice in this book either. It's full tilt spicy fun times, and VERY exciting. Having multiple appendages is always a great time for everyone involved too. Mairuk's deep concern for for Astoria always being able to consent was so nice to see, especially with how aspects of their biology affect her mental state.
The ending was stunningly beautiful, and the perfect balance to all the pain we experienced along the way. This book was a journey for your heart and soul, and I will be re-reading it again in the future for sure.
This is one of those outstanding books that you want to slowly savor.
There is a constant undercurrent of intense grief, especially child and partner loss through the entire book. There were times I had to set the book down for a little bit, because it made me tear up. The emotions were so real and you could feel how overwhelming they were for both Mairuk and Astoria. It felt real, actually real.
This was honestly the most unique book I've read in a long time. Mairuk is hands down the most interesting monster I've ever seen. The way the 12 different fungal entities coexist in their body and have their own voices is absolutely fascinating. It is so cool that it is an ecosystem instead of just a regular monster like we usually see. I've never read anything like it, and the detail is incredible.
Autumn wasn't kidding about the level of spice in this book either. It's full tilt spicy fun times, and VERY exciting. Having multiple appendages is always a great time for everyone involved too. Mairuk's deep concern for for Astoria always being able to consent was so nice to see, especially with how aspects of their biology affect her mental state.
The ending was stunningly beautiful, and the perfect balance to all the pain we experienced along the way. This book was a journey for your heart and soul, and I will be re-reading it again in the future for sure.
July 31, 2025
I both liked and disliked this one, which is perplexing because it makes for a difficult review 😅
The premise of this book is beautiful; Two Opposing Peoples learning to see each other as equals rather than threats to each others existence, Learning to love again after loss.
There was alot of individual growth within this story, the aspects of Grief and Guilt were written so well. So much of this story was executed incredibly.
I especially enjoyed the Uniqueness of the characters in this series. The construction of the MMC and their Peoples was something I personally hadn’t read before and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Everything hit the mark, until it reached the point of the MCs romance actually blossoming.
From there, it felt…off.
The individual emotional growth and build was so strong and such a focal point, but when they became romantic that became less prevalent.
The moment they became intimate, the focal point switched to s*x scene after s*x scene.
There was barely any content of the two being a couple and interacting in a nons*xual space as a couple.
The ending felt rushed and because there was very little interaction between them aside from sexy time, when they dropped the L bomb, it came across as disingenuous.
80% of this book was constructed wonderfully but that 20% that wasn’t, took so much away from the story (for me) and I was a little disappointed at that.
I might re-read this at a later date, maybe I’ll see this differently another day.
The premise of this book is beautiful; Two Opposing Peoples learning to see each other as equals rather than threats to each others existence, Learning to love again after loss.
There was alot of individual growth within this story, the aspects of Grief and Guilt were written so well. So much of this story was executed incredibly.
I especially enjoyed the Uniqueness of the characters in this series. The construction of the MMC and their Peoples was something I personally hadn’t read before and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Everything hit the mark, until it reached the point of the MCs romance actually blossoming.
From there, it felt…off.
The individual emotional growth and build was so strong and such a focal point, but when they became romantic that became less prevalent.
The moment they became intimate, the focal point switched to s*x scene after s*x scene.
There was barely any content of the two being a couple and interacting in a nons*xual space as a couple.
The ending felt rushed and because there was very little interaction between them aside from sexy time, when they dropped the L bomb, it came across as disingenuous.
80% of this book was constructed wonderfully but that 20% that wasn’t, took so much away from the story (for me) and I was a little disappointed at that.
I might re-read this at a later date, maybe I’ll see this differently another day.
December 23, 2025
y'all...I cannot explain to you how well this book is written.
Astoria and Mairuk both have a background that has so much despair and hurt in it, yet, somehow they both grow into beautiful beings.
Was this book going to hit because it has MUSHROOM HUMANIODS ?! Yes. yes it was.
Did the main story line absolutely catch my attention? yes. yes it did.
Astoria has magic. Magic that is essentially illegal in the human realm, magic that disturbs her path to the gods.
She must somehow learn to live with Mairuk...or he might just kill her.
Between blood bonds, lust, Mairuks special body (😉🤭), love and complete and utter despair, Astoria must find and keep her will to survive.
Mairuk is everything, he's my absolute favourite character Autumn has written and I'd totally swap places with Astoria if ever possible 🤤
This book is mostly written in the Forrest with essentially 2 people and an adorable fox. however, I have never read a book where it's the 2 main characters for the majority of the book and been so into it I read it in 2 days.
This book and world is so addicting to read you'll absolutely want more.
Can Astoria and Mairuk make it or will their differences and trauma pull them apart?
overall review: 5/5 stars.
The world building and the way Autumn has written Astorias trauma is too good to pass up. This fantasy romance is perfect.
Spicey level: 4/5 stars.
The spice is there and it is glorious the things Mairuk can do 🤤 will leave you wanting more
Astoria and Mairuk both have a background that has so much despair and hurt in it, yet, somehow they both grow into beautiful beings.
Was this book going to hit because it has MUSHROOM HUMANIODS ?! Yes. yes it was.
Did the main story line absolutely catch my attention? yes. yes it did.
Astoria has magic. Magic that is essentially illegal in the human realm, magic that disturbs her path to the gods.
She must somehow learn to live with Mairuk...or he might just kill her.
Between blood bonds, lust, Mairuks special body (😉🤭), love and complete and utter despair, Astoria must find and keep her will to survive.
Mairuk is everything, he's my absolute favourite character Autumn has written and I'd totally swap places with Astoria if ever possible 🤤
This book is mostly written in the Forrest with essentially 2 people and an adorable fox. however, I have never read a book where it's the 2 main characters for the majority of the book and been so into it I read it in 2 days.
This book and world is so addicting to read you'll absolutely want more.
Can Astoria and Mairuk make it or will their differences and trauma pull them apart?
overall review: 5/5 stars.
The world building and the way Autumn has written Astorias trauma is too good to pass up. This fantasy romance is perfect.
Spicey level: 4/5 stars.
The spice is there and it is glorious the things Mairuk can do 🤤 will leave you wanting more
July 18, 2025
A lonely human woman and a lonely monster come together in such a beautiful story.
First and foremost, this book does deal with depression, grief, and other traumatic experiences, so definitely check your triggers. This book hit all the stops of a monster romance for me. There is world building to where you feel like you stepped onto the page, there is angst, and above all, there are two very different species learning to coexist. These two, Astoria and Mairuk, are something magical and wonderful in their own unique ways, and watching them bond and grow together just really hit home.
Mairuk, in particular, went above and beyond to make sure he was checking in on Astoria and her feelings, I definitely loved the communication between the two and how their overall relationship evolved throughout the novel. Astoria is going through it in this story, and she has been through quite a bit. She has a lot of grief that she has to handle, and the way that Mairuk shows that he cares for her really makes me smile. The spice was spicy, and while it wasn't the main focus of the story, each spice scene brought something to their overall arch.
I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this amazing novel and am leaving a review of my own thoughts and feelings.
First and foremost, this book does deal with depression, grief, and other traumatic experiences, so definitely check your triggers. This book hit all the stops of a monster romance for me. There is world building to where you feel like you stepped onto the page, there is angst, and above all, there are two very different species learning to coexist. These two, Astoria and Mairuk, are something magical and wonderful in their own unique ways, and watching them bond and grow together just really hit home.
Mairuk, in particular, went above and beyond to make sure he was checking in on Astoria and her feelings, I definitely loved the communication between the two and how their overall relationship evolved throughout the novel. Astoria is going through it in this story, and she has been through quite a bit. She has a lot of grief that she has to handle, and the way that Mairuk shows that he cares for her really makes me smile. The spice was spicy, and while it wasn't the main focus of the story, each spice scene brought something to their overall arch.
I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this amazing novel and am leaving a review of my own thoughts and feelings.
July 21, 2025
This book was one that I did not expect to like as much as I did. I went in not knowing what the MMC would look like and did not search until I made my own mental image. Very few books feel new to me and this one did. I did not think a mushroom man would work but I was so wrong.
It was brutal and beautiful the way it spoke about grief, depression and loneliness. It’s not something anyone likes to experience but to capture it so beautifully really made this book special. The first part was hard to get through because of this but the pay off was worth it. The characters show two different sides of grief and how they grow and learn to live and love again gave me all the good feels. The challenges and concerns the characters had felt real, not cookie cutter disagreements or personality tropes.
While not my typical read and one I may have glossed over, I am so happy I did not. I can’t wait to read more about this world Autumn created.
Good spice and an interesting world. If you are on the fence I would say, check your triggers, and if you are still wondering, dive in head first. It’s worth it.
It was brutal and beautiful the way it spoke about grief, depression and loneliness. It’s not something anyone likes to experience but to capture it so beautifully really made this book special. The first part was hard to get through because of this but the pay off was worth it. The characters show two different sides of grief and how they grow and learn to live and love again gave me all the good feels. The challenges and concerns the characters had felt real, not cookie cutter disagreements or personality tropes.
While not my typical read and one I may have glossed over, I am so happy I did not. I can’t wait to read more about this world Autumn created.
Good spice and an interesting world. If you are on the fence I would say, check your triggers, and if you are still wondering, dive in head first. It’s worth it.
August 19, 2025
I'll admit, I went into this thinking it'll just be a fun monster romance with a mushroom creature, so I was rather unprepared for the amount of feels this book gave me.
Astoria is a human woman dealing with far more loss than is fair, grief is her constant companion when we meet her, along with her loyal fox, Bastian. When the Ardeloks, the Folk of the Forest, attack her village, her forbidden Orsea magic transforms her into a large red fox, and she flees together with Bastian into the forest. She comes across The Twelve who Make Mairuk, and their Garden of Bostrai, but Mairuk has had negative interactions with humans in the past, and is dealing with their own loss.
The two struggle to find common ground, and the emotional rollercoaster of their relationship really pulled on my heartstrings. I felt so much towards these characters, and I found myself desperately wanting them both to be happy by the end of the story.
Also, the spice was amazing. Unusual anatomy is one of my favourite parts of monster romance, and this book delivers in the hottest way possible!
I received an ARC of this ebook from the author, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
Astoria is a human woman dealing with far more loss than is fair, grief is her constant companion when we meet her, along with her loyal fox, Bastian. When the Ardeloks, the Folk of the Forest, attack her village, her forbidden Orsea magic transforms her into a large red fox, and she flees together with Bastian into the forest. She comes across The Twelve who Make Mairuk, and their Garden of Bostrai, but Mairuk has had negative interactions with humans in the past, and is dealing with their own loss.
The two struggle to find common ground, and the emotional rollercoaster of their relationship really pulled on my heartstrings. I felt so much towards these characters, and I found myself desperately wanting them both to be happy by the end of the story.
Also, the spice was amazing. Unusual anatomy is one of my favourite parts of monster romance, and this book delivers in the hottest way possible!
I received an ARC of this ebook from the author, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
July 23, 2025
From the grief of Astoria to the Pain of Mairuk! This book has captured my heart. It is so much more than a simple monster romance, as it deals with so many deep topics and emotions that I fell in love with all 13 souls!
Astoria- lost her husband and had a stillborn daughter, enveloped in her grief where no one can reach her. Until her village is attacked by the Mushroom monsters known as Rhoctai! Her magic releases and she shapeshifts and runs away as fast as she can with Bastian (her fox familiar). When she comes to? She’s in the very garden of the enemy!
Mairuk- has lost all of their family, and all Twelve who assemble them are in mourning and pain. Rebuilding their garden is the only way to keep their kin’s memory alive. Until a certain human woman and her fox crash into their garden. A pact is necessary… but shouldn’t they just kill her?
This book is full of so many emotions and the way that Mairuk and their system of souls and parts is written is pure genius and Autumn should definitely be proud to have written her own story into Astoria!
Astoria- lost her husband and had a stillborn daughter, enveloped in her grief where no one can reach her. Until her village is attacked by the Mushroom monsters known as Rhoctai! Her magic releases and she shapeshifts and runs away as fast as she can with Bastian (her fox familiar). When she comes to? She’s in the very garden of the enemy!
Mairuk- has lost all of their family, and all Twelve who assemble them are in mourning and pain. Rebuilding their garden is the only way to keep their kin’s memory alive. Until a certain human woman and her fox crash into their garden. A pact is necessary… but shouldn’t they just kill her?
This book is full of so many emotions and the way that Mairuk and their system of souls and parts is written is pure genius and Autumn should definitely be proud to have written her own story into Astoria!
August 7, 2025
For the first time in a long time, I have no words. Not in a bad way at all, but just in an unexpected way.
I originally requested this ARC because I love Autumn's writing, and I mean, who doesn't want to read a spicy monster romance? What I wasn't expecting was the story also taking me on a beautiful journey through grief and pain. I didn't expect to connect with a character so deeply, and simply understand the pain of loss.
These characters were written so beautifully. Having these two MCs, who are supposed to hate each other, come together in the way they did was fantastic. Both Aurora and Mairuk left a lasting empression on me. The world-building was also magnificent, the amount of detail did not leave me wondering at all. Now the spice. The spice was spicy. I think my family sees these reviews so I am gonna be careful with what I say, but, damn I was glad I read this book in the safety of my own space. Some of the best spice I have read in a while, I will definetly be revisiting!
Thank you Autumn for the chance to be an ARC reader! I am honored!
I originally requested this ARC because I love Autumn's writing, and I mean, who doesn't want to read a spicy monster romance? What I wasn't expecting was the story also taking me on a beautiful journey through grief and pain. I didn't expect to connect with a character so deeply, and simply understand the pain of loss.
These characters were written so beautifully. Having these two MCs, who are supposed to hate each other, come together in the way they did was fantastic. Both Aurora and Mairuk left a lasting empression on me. The world-building was also magnificent, the amount of detail did not leave me wondering at all. Now the spice. The spice was spicy. I think my family sees these reviews so I am gonna be careful with what I say, but, damn I was glad I read this book in the safety of my own space. Some of the best spice I have read in a while, I will definetly be revisiting!
Thank you Autumn for the chance to be an ARC reader! I am honored!
August 9, 2025
I swear the first 5% was the author just rewording the same sentence 15 different ways. It does in fact get better though, they slowly start developing a friendship I guess you could call it. I love the way they interact with each other and I adore little bastian (the fmcs bonded animal which happens to be a fox). Around 50% there is a spicy scene and while it is definitely different I hated how Astoria “spoke” during it. It just gave cliché vibes yk? However I do love their nickname for her “little vixen” is so cute and I’ve never heard anything like it be used in any of the books I have read. This book deals a lot with grief and the works of dealing with grief even though it’s a romantasy book. It gives a great perspective on it I feel. Mairuks respect and feelings for her is so overwhelming but in the best way. I do love the ending (not the epilogue) it felt right, the epilogue was just a spicy scene💀 like come on you couldn’t have put anything else there?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
I didn’t expect a book about a mushroom monster to be hot, beautiful, and moving, but here we are. In the beginning of this Astoria is completely broken down by grief and it was really heart wrenching to see her trying to deal with her losses. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love Mairuk as much as I did, but they are genuinely perfect. I love how they gave Astoria the space and hope to start healing and how Astoria helped to make Mairuk feel whole again. Mairuk’s companions really added another layer to the story and I really liked how loyal they were to Mairuk. The spice in this was honestly pretty crazy hot. There’s some special appendages in this, and Astoria enjoys them frequently. This was a really wonderful story about two beings who have only ever harbored hatred against the other kind, overcoming their prejudices and finding a really deep and fulfilling love.
I got this as an ARC but all opinions are my own!
I got this as an ARC but all opinions are my own!
August 12, 2025
I received an ARC of this book and these opinions are my own.
I don't even know where to start. I started reading it expecting one thing and it was but it was also so much more. Autumn Hawthornes uses a monster romance to write a powerful story about grief and how to find oneself again after losing everything. How to trust again, in youself, in others and in your future.
When they meet, Astoria and Maruk seem to have nothing in common and they both think the other is the enemy.
But unusual circumstances forced them to link their lives together, at least for a while. By spending time together, they discover their share the same pain and will end up healing together.
I loved witnessing their relationship progress, moment by moment. Their connection wasn't immediate and it built with trust and understanding. And when they started to explore their relationship and how they could help each other? It was beautiful.
I also loved that not everything was resolved when they realise their feelings for each other. Even at the end of the story, all their traumas were not solved. Because that's not how trauma and grief works It stays with you always, it just becomes bearable.
Also, I loved that Astoria's reticence for trusting Maruk and herself to love him were not dismissed by Maruk. Not once did he invalidate her feelings, even if it hurt him.
Bonus point: the spice is high heat!
I don't even know where to start. I started reading it expecting one thing and it was but it was also so much more. Autumn Hawthornes uses a monster romance to write a powerful story about grief and how to find oneself again after losing everything. How to trust again, in youself, in others and in your future.
When they meet, Astoria and Maruk seem to have nothing in common and they both think the other is the enemy.
But unusual circumstances forced them to link their lives together, at least for a while. By spending time together, they discover their share the same pain and will end up healing together.
I loved witnessing their relationship progress, moment by moment. Their connection wasn't immediate and it built with trust and understanding. And when they started to explore their relationship and how they could help each other? It was beautiful.
I also loved that not everything was resolved when they realise their feelings for each other. Even at the end of the story, all their traumas were not solved. Because that's not how trauma and grief works It stays with you always, it just becomes bearable.
Also, I loved that Astoria's reticence for trusting Maruk and herself to love him were not dismissed by Maruk. Not once did he invalidate her feelings, even if it hurt him.
Bonus point: the spice is high heat!
August 14, 2025
ARC Review
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Genre: Monster Romance
******READ YOUR TRIGGERS *****
This is an emotional rollercoaster of grief, depression, mental anguish, independence, healing and learning. Though a type of captive Astoria is cared for and shown a respect from Mairuk that isn't typical in life or books. Astoria's loathing is so internalized that the hate she was raised to believe for Mairuk is burned away. These two not only learn to coexist but find companionship and love. I do feel that there was Spice just to have Spice in some chapters HOWEVER isn't that always the way when youre in that "honeymoon" phase of a relationship?
The world building is amazing, the character development on point and above all else it kept me engaged and wanting more! If you like angst, and monsters and magic then this is definitely for you!!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Genre: Monster Romance
******READ YOUR TRIGGERS *****
This is an emotional rollercoaster of grief, depression, mental anguish, independence, healing and learning. Though a type of captive Astoria is cared for and shown a respect from Mairuk that isn't typical in life or books. Astoria's loathing is so internalized that the hate she was raised to believe for Mairuk is burned away. These two not only learn to coexist but find companionship and love. I do feel that there was Spice just to have Spice in some chapters HOWEVER isn't that always the way when youre in that "honeymoon" phase of a relationship?
The world building is amazing, the character development on point and above all else it kept me engaged and wanting more! If you like angst, and monsters and magic then this is definitely for you!!
August 18, 2025
Autumn Hawthorne does not disappoint with her new novel- between her vivid descriptions that truly bring the characters to life and her ability to consistently come up with new monsters, it is easy to fall into the tale of Astoria, a heartbroken woman navigating her path thrpugh love and loss with the help of a new companion. I love her imagination; as a fan of this genre it is refreshing to get original stories where you dont know what twist is on the next page.
I would advise women who have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth to be aware that this content may be triggering, as the heartache is well captured and very real. I struggled with some aspe ts of this, but it does give a sense of peace to see a character overcome such tragedy.
Shout out to Autumn for the ARC copy. looking for to more in the future!
I would advise women who have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth to be aware that this content may be triggering, as the heartache is well captured and very real. I struggled with some aspe ts of this, but it does give a sense of peace to see a character overcome such tragedy.
Shout out to Autumn for the ARC copy. looking for to more in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2025
If I could scream off the rooftop for everyone to hear to tell them to read this book, I would!!! I loved the characters and honestly just everything about it. Autumn did such a great job at capturing Astorias emotions and heartbreak. I definitely caught myself tearing up a few times. I just wanted to reach in the book and give her a hug! But luckily that’s where Mariuk comes in. His character was so sweet!!!! I’m so glad they were able to find solace in each other!! Ugh I can’t handle the sweetness that is their love. OH WAIT AND LETS NOT FORGET THE SPICE?!?!?! SOSOSO HOTTTT. This book is 10/10 no notes, everyone read It!!! I can’t wait to read any and everything Autumn comes out with next 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
August 18, 2025I'm not generally a monster romance girl - but I discovered Autumm on socials and I've fallen in love with her stories. She does an incredible job of world building and creating such beautiful and unique characters. This was a hauntingly beautiful story of heartbreak, grief and healing between FMC Astoria, a human and MC Mairuk. Astoria has lost her husband and daughter, as a stillborn, due to sickness in her world and Mairuk has also lost their family and community - to humans. We get to go along on their journey - as they learn to set aside their differences and start to heal together. I truly don't have enough words for how amazing this book is. Thank you Autumm for a chance to ARC read this book.
August 27, 2025
I received this book as an ARC, and I am grateful.
However, this book didn't really grip my attention as much as I expected. The story did a good job of portraying an all-consuming sense of grief that one might have at the loss of their child and husband.
Astoria, the FMC, is suffering with the grief and loss of her husband and daughter as she wanders the forests with her pet, Bastian. Astoria stumbles upon Mairuk, a mushroom-like monster who looks like the ones who destroyed her village.
Mairuk has been alone for decades whereas this is Astoria's first time without those she's known. Astoria, is caught between her reluctance to let go of her grief and feelings of death and her desires to rejoin the living. She becomes unsure on whether Mairuk will save her or kill her.
However, this book didn't really grip my attention as much as I expected. The story did a good job of portraying an all-consuming sense of grief that one might have at the loss of their child and husband.
Astoria, the FMC, is suffering with the grief and loss of her husband and daughter as she wanders the forests with her pet, Bastian. Astoria stumbles upon Mairuk, a mushroom-like monster who looks like the ones who destroyed her village.
Mairuk has been alone for decades whereas this is Astoria's first time without those she's known. Astoria, is caught between her reluctance to let go of her grief and feelings of death and her desires to rejoin the living. She becomes unsure on whether Mairuk will save her or kill her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2025
ARC Review:
This book was very emotional, the pain that both these characters have experienced is huge but watching them grow and heal together was really sweet. Mairuk treats Astoria so gently once they realize they have been through the same situation and it was very sweet. The way they talk to her, even after she’s had a meltdown of big emotions, is just amazing and sweet and so patient.
The smut was perfect! Very spicy and fun. I would love to get a book about the other mushy monsters! I think there’s a lot of really cool characters in this story that I would just love a peek into their minds!
This book was very emotional, the pain that both these characters have experienced is huge but watching them grow and heal together was really sweet. Mairuk treats Astoria so gently once they realize they have been through the same situation and it was very sweet. The way they talk to her, even after she’s had a meltdown of big emotions, is just amazing and sweet and so patient.
The smut was perfect! Very spicy and fun. I would love to get a book about the other mushy monsters! I think there’s a lot of really cool characters in this story that I would just love a peek into their minds!
August 3, 2025
Knowing that grief & the healing process were a huge part of this book, I was a little scared going in but up for the journey. Autumn did an excellent and empathetic job of exploring such a complex topic. Embedded in such a creative world with all that spice takes the bite out just enough. One minute, you're feeling the feels, but before they get the better of you, you're feeling an entirely different type of feels. On the technical note, having the glossary at the beginning was super handy when trying to get the lay of the land in a new fantasy world. Meanwhile, while there were quite a few fantasy words in there, there weren't so many it keeps you from jumping in.
August 9, 2025
4.5 rounded to 5
I absolutely loved this book. This story contains heavy topics. It’s about loss, going through grief, finding love again and defeating the odds. Mairuk & Astoria have a healing love. It is a beautiful story that had me on the edge of my seat. This wasn’t a fast burn, it was medium-ish. We got to the Mairuk and Astoria grow, and slowly trust each other as they revealed more about eachother.
The world building was fantastic as always with Autumn’s books. The spicy was spicy, and once it happened it happens *insert wiggle eyebrow meme here*.
I have no complaints. I will be rereading this book.
I absolutely loved this book. This story contains heavy topics. It’s about loss, going through grief, finding love again and defeating the odds. Mairuk & Astoria have a healing love. It is a beautiful story that had me on the edge of my seat. This wasn’t a fast burn, it was medium-ish. We got to the Mairuk and Astoria grow, and slowly trust each other as they revealed more about eachother.
The world building was fantastic as always with Autumn’s books. The spicy was spicy, and once it happened it happens *insert wiggle eyebrow meme here*.
I have no complaints. I will be rereading this book.
August 11, 2025
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book showcases a unique world with our main characters dealing with extreme grief and loss. Please check the triggers before reading!!
While I very much enjoyed the world and characters, it fell a little flat for me when the FMC was moving on from said grief and loss. It felt quick and simplified in proportion to the written and implied impacts to our FMC.
On a monster spice level it was great and definitely worth a read for folks that like a balance of monster smut and plot. The MMC is unique and refreshing in a culture of growing monster smut!!
This book showcases a unique world with our main characters dealing with extreme grief and loss. Please check the triggers before reading!!
While I very much enjoyed the world and characters, it fell a little flat for me when the FMC was moving on from said grief and loss. It felt quick and simplified in proportion to the written and implied impacts to our FMC.
On a monster spice level it was great and definitely worth a read for folks that like a balance of monster smut and plot. The MMC is unique and refreshing in a culture of growing monster smut!!
August 14, 2025
where the shadows land
Thank you author Autumn Hawthorne for the gifted copy of this ebook. These opinions are my own.
I really liked this book it was more than I expected. There was such a heavy theme of overcoming grief and finding those you can heal with. The concept of the monster Mairuk was pretty interesting too. I don’t read a lot of monster romance so I’m not sure if it’s common or not, but this is pretty unique to me. The romance that comes out of the kind of forced proximity of the MCs is sweet. The spice isn’t the biggest part of this book but when she does give spice it’s good.
I look forward to more from Autumn Hawthorne.
Thank you author Autumn Hawthorne for the gifted copy of this ebook. These opinions are my own.
I really liked this book it was more than I expected. There was such a heavy theme of overcoming grief and finding those you can heal with. The concept of the monster Mairuk was pretty interesting too. I don’t read a lot of monster romance so I’m not sure if it’s common or not, but this is pretty unique to me. The romance that comes out of the kind of forced proximity of the MCs is sweet. The spice isn’t the biggest part of this book but when she does give spice it’s good.
I look forward to more from Autumn Hawthorne.
August 26, 2025
This is a monster romance with a twist—a quick, fast-paced read about two individuals from vastly different worlds who connect over their own devastating grief, so be sure to grab the tissues.
It took me a little while to get into the story, primarily because I was trying to figure out Maituk and what he truly was. I was initially confused by the presence of multiple beings inside him, but I quickly realized that it was just him; he wasn't possessed by random ghosts.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It offers plenty of spice, a touch of angst, and a significant amount of grief, followed by hope and healing.
It took me a little while to get into the story, primarily because I was trying to figure out Maituk and what he truly was. I was initially confused by the presence of multiple beings inside him, but I quickly realized that it was just him; he wasn't possessed by random ghosts.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It offers plenty of spice, a touch of angst, and a significant amount of grief, followed by hope and healing.
August 11, 2025
ARC Review: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice Level: 3🌶️🌶️🌶️
This fantasy monster romance had me in a choke hold. This was so out of my comfort zone, that I am so glad I had the opportunity to read. I felt horrible for the pain and grief both the FMC and MMC felt. The world building was nicely written and the magic elements allowed a more thorough understanding of how everything works. Oh my god, the spice was written so beautifully was so hot. 🥵 I don’t think I’ll ever look at a mushroom the same again.
Thank you again for the ARC!
This fantasy monster romance had me in a choke hold. This was so out of my comfort zone, that I am so glad I had the opportunity to read. I felt horrible for the pain and grief both the FMC and MMC felt. The world building was nicely written and the magic elements allowed a more thorough understanding of how everything works. Oh my god, the spice was written so beautifully was so hot. 🥵 I don’t think I’ll ever look at a mushroom the same again.
Thank you again for the ARC!
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