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Leap Into Faith
Faith Vernik wants to believe. That her podcast co-host and best friend doesn’t hate her. That she deserves all the success she has. And that the Bowley Frogman, a cryptid she traveled halfway across the country for, is real. As host of “Hi! Strangeness,” Faith is no stranger to the abnormal. But what happens when her entire belief system is rattled after falling for a strange man who lives in the woods who also happens to be the cryptid she was searching for?
Keene Loscann has always been a skeptic. Sure, he’s a cryptid, a famous one at that. And sure, all his friends are too, but he’s a man of logic. He knows that he’s walking on thin ice trying to keep his identity hidden from his work and the residents of the town he grew up in. When a podcaster shows up at his doorstep, the doubt in him wants to send her away. Instead, he opens himself up to her and learns that maybe he shouldn’t spend his entire life hiding in the shadows.
Leap Into Faith is a monster romcom about two people who find exactly what they need in one another.
Keene Loscann has always been a skeptic. Sure, he’s a cryptid, a famous one at that. And sure, all his friends are too, but he’s a man of logic. He knows that he’s walking on thin ice trying to keep his identity hidden from his work and the residents of the town he grew up in. When a podcaster shows up at his doorstep, the doubt in him wants to send her away. Instead, he opens himself up to her and learns that maybe he shouldn’t spend his entire life hiding in the shadows.
Leap Into Faith is a monster romcom about two people who find exactly what they need in one another.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2025
35 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Raen Tetra
4 books16 followersRaen Tetra is the pen name for a writer with a far less exciting real name who has the far less exciting day job of working in the tech industry.
She has a terrible tendency to listen to a song and create an entire scene around it. Her notes app is a mess of dialogue, her characters kissing, and grocery lists.
She lives in New Hampshire with her evil rat dog, and when she isn’t camping out writing in her local coffee shop she loves being in the woods and belting showtunes in the car.
You can visit her website at www.raentetra.com, follow her @raentetra_author on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok or email her (only if you’re nice) at raentetra@gmail.com.
She has a terrible tendency to listen to a song and create an entire scene around it. Her notes app is a mess of dialogue, her characters kissing, and grocery lists.
She lives in New Hampshire with her evil rat dog, and when she isn’t camping out writing in her local coffee shop she loves being in the woods and belting showtunes in the car.
You can visit her website at www.raentetra.com, follow her @raentetra_author on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok or email her (only if you’re nice) at raentetra@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 14, 2025
I do love a good monster romance and Leap into Faith was equal parts funny, cozy, and spicy. I’ve been reading so many dark gothic books lately and this book was the perfect palate cleanser!
the stars hollow-esque town and lush forests made me feel like I was curled up in a blanket sipping hot chocolate.☕️
Faith was such a genuine person and her thoughtful interactions and connection with others felt so true to her character. she desperately wanted to understand and empathize with the crytids she researched and her attraction and admiration for Keene felt so authentic.
Keene is a truly iconic cryptid.🤌🏻✨ he had me most definitely crushing on a frogman. his soft-hearted hardworking nature yet slightly feral side made it easy to see the appeal Faith saw in him. all the thoughtful little gestures he did for her— MY GOD🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️ he truly warmed my icy heart.
this story is lighthearted, entertaining, and sweet while still bringing to light heavier themes the two main characters are going through. I loved Faith and Keene’s growth throughout the story. you could tell that their relationship had impacted them for the better and made them view the world differently.
also, I didn’t know there is a separate book set in this world as well so you know what I’ll be reading next.✨
if you enjoy cozy settings and crytid romances, definitely check this book out!!
thank you Raen Tetra for this arc🖤
the stars hollow-esque town and lush forests made me feel like I was curled up in a blanket sipping hot chocolate.☕️
Faith was such a genuine person and her thoughtful interactions and connection with others felt so true to her character. she desperately wanted to understand and empathize with the crytids she researched and her attraction and admiration for Keene felt so authentic.
Keene is a truly iconic cryptid.🤌🏻✨ he had me most definitely crushing on a frogman. his soft-hearted hardworking nature yet slightly feral side made it easy to see the appeal Faith saw in him. all the thoughtful little gestures he did for her— MY GOD🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️ he truly warmed my icy heart.
this story is lighthearted, entertaining, and sweet while still bringing to light heavier themes the two main characters are going through. I loved Faith and Keene’s growth throughout the story. you could tell that their relationship had impacted them for the better and made them view the world differently.
also, I didn’t know there is a separate book set in this world as well so you know what I’ll be reading next.✨
if you enjoy cozy settings and crytid romances, definitely check this book out!!
thank you Raen Tetra for this arc🖤
September 2, 2025
4.5 stars
I'd toad-ally be a fan of those hallmark romcom movies if they included adorably awkward cryptids like Keene. I loved this book and characters so much. I found myself trying to find time any way I could to read more throughout the day. Although, I knew some sort of 3rd act breakup was coming so it was stressful reading and waiting for the shoe to drop. I'm a fan of the trope but I did feel like Keene's reaction didn't fit with the personality we saw from him. But he has been isolated for 30 odd years so I guess he gets a pass to be irrational for once. Their reunion was very sweet though.
The characters, even Keene, were very relatable. Faith was such a boss bitch - having her own successful business doing something that she loved. She had such a lovely community of people and that grew even more after traveling to Vermont. But girl....the way I was yelling at her to please not go to an isolated cabin in the woods to meet a stranger. But to be honest...if someone told me I could meet Mothman at their cabin.....I probably wouldn't go but I'd pond-er it. For at least an hour.
Their banter was hilarious and those moments where they were just existing together, being their own selves, not worrying about the future and what ifs were some of my favorite parts to read.
Can't wait for the next book!
I'd toad-ally be a fan of those hallmark romcom movies if they included adorably awkward cryptids like Keene. I loved this book and characters so much. I found myself trying to find time any way I could to read more throughout the day. Although, I knew some sort of 3rd act breakup was coming so it was stressful reading and waiting for the shoe to drop. I'm a fan of the trope but I did feel like Keene's reaction didn't fit with the personality we saw from him. But he has been isolated for 30 odd years so I guess he gets a pass to be irrational for once. Their reunion was very sweet though.
The characters, even Keene, were very relatable. Faith was such a boss bitch - having her own successful business doing something that she loved. She had such a lovely community of people and that grew even more after traveling to Vermont. But girl....the way I was yelling at her to please not go to an isolated cabin in the woods to meet a stranger. But to be honest...if someone told me I could meet Mothman at their cabin.....I probably wouldn't go but I'd pond-er it. For at least an hour.
Their banter was hilarious and those moments where they were just existing together, being their own selves, not worrying about the future and what ifs were some of my favorite parts to read.
Can't wait for the next book!
September 27, 2025
I adore anything written by Raen. The wholesome content in this novel filled me with so much joy and I want everyone else to experience it too. The love between our darling MCs was just chef's kiss, perfect. I loved how quickly they fell for each other in such a real yet unreal way. I they were just meant to be. I also adore how they both went after their dreams and supported each other during the whole process.
Dreamy, lovely, enchanting!!!!!!
Dreamy, lovely, enchanting!!!!!!
August 24, 2025
i love Faith and Keene and I want to put them in my pocket and keep them close to me forever 💚
RTC
RTC
March 15, 2026
Why did I actually love that so much?!
March 22, 2026
3.5⭐️ i had such a fun time with this one! loved the first half but 60-90% dragged a bit which dropped it .5
March 23, 2026
i had a 10/10 time reading this and the vibes were toad-ally worth it.
why is a frogman more romantic than 99% of the male population.
why is a frogman more romantic than 99% of the male population.
February 25, 2026
This was a fun enough premise but really needed to be 200-300 pages shorter.
September 22, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an arc copy of this book so thank you to the author.
This book was adorable and I loved every minute. This book follows faith who is a cryptic podcaster who talks about different things like ufos and such as she decides to try and find the infamous frogman in Vermont for her podcast episode. However when she meets frogman who is actually a guy called keene she falls for him as they explore their relationship.
Keene is such a green flag (and is actually green!), he’s a down to earth guy who just wants to get by and he has a cat as well.
I didn’t rate this 5 stars due to some pacing issues and the third act breakup which I struggled with, I loved how they made up though.
Overall a very enjoyable book and would highly Recommend
This book was adorable and I loved every minute. This book follows faith who is a cryptic podcaster who talks about different things like ufos and such as she decides to try and find the infamous frogman in Vermont for her podcast episode. However when she meets frogman who is actually a guy called keene she falls for him as they explore their relationship.
Keene is such a green flag (and is actually green!), he’s a down to earth guy who just wants to get by and he has a cat as well.
I didn’t rate this 5 stars due to some pacing issues and the third act breakup which I struggled with, I loved how they made up though.
Overall a very enjoyable book and would highly Recommend
September 11, 2025
***Beta Read***
Raen is one of the sweetest humans on the planet, and I was so excited to Beta Read this book for her.
After the first one was so good, I knew this one was gonna be even better.
Raen gives us relevant connections woven into her funny romcoms that keep things so unique.
I adore her characters.
Faith is stubborn, funny, quirky, and vulnerable.
Keene literally was everything I never knew I needed wrapped into a frog cryptid.
And together they were so perfectly aligned that when shit hit the fan, I wasn't scared that it was gonna be too bad of a blowout.
Mira honestly annoyed me till the end, and I would've slapped her 😅
My best friend isn't gonna act like that, no mam.
The spice is just right.
The plot keeps you hooked.
There's banter and fun but also emotions and misunderstandings.
Its so good, I literally cannot wait for the next book!!!
Raen is one of the sweetest humans on the planet, and I was so excited to Beta Read this book for her.
After the first one was so good, I knew this one was gonna be even better.
Raen gives us relevant connections woven into her funny romcoms that keep things so unique.
I adore her characters.
Faith is stubborn, funny, quirky, and vulnerable.
Keene literally was everything I never knew I needed wrapped into a frog cryptid.
And together they were so perfectly aligned that when shit hit the fan, I wasn't scared that it was gonna be too bad of a blowout.
Mira honestly annoyed me till the end, and I would've slapped her 😅
My best friend isn't gonna act like that, no mam.
The spice is just right.
The plot keeps you hooked.
There's banter and fun but also emotions and misunderstandings.
Its so good, I literally cannot wait for the next book!!!
August 30, 2025
Popular podcaster and cryptic aficionado decides to travel to a small rural town in search of episode content, aiming to hunt down local legend...the Frogman? In true romance story fashion, she finds a man who has remained hidden for 30+ years almost immediately, bustles her way into his life and does indeed f&*k the cryptic on their first date.
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Plot
The plot is a simple one - Faith, our podcasting heroine, travels to small town Vermont on the hunt for a captivating new show topic: the illusive Frogman. She immerses herself in the local frog themed festival and after a few short interviews, finds herself outside said Froggie's door.
I don't know exactly how I feel about this story. There's a lot to like, but there were also parts that just didn't vibe with me. Something was off about the pacing, with sections feeling slower than the rest, especially while Faith was farting around town 'investigating'. The story could have been a chunk shorter and I wouldn't have cared.
I think most of my other issues unfortunately lie with the characters themselves, which I'll get to down below. The world building was okay, with an interesting spin put on the MMC's 'condition', and I liked the addition of a mysterious relative. I did feel that the ending was a little too convenient - in reality I'm sure this would have gone terribly and wouldn't have been the HEA that we got (although I'm glad it worked out).
I've ummed and awed while writing this review on how to rate it with Goodreads stupid 1-5 stars - I think I'm going to make this a 2.5, rounded to 3 for the unique MMC who is also a cat dad. Peaches, you are a legend.
Characters
FMC
Faith. Oh Faith. There was just something about her that I can't quite put my finger on, but I just didn't like her as much as I felt I should.
Let's start with what I did like: this career, chef's kiss. I love it. I need more paranormal investigating podcasters in my life and thoroughly enjoyed all the little nuggets about her previous investigations.
After this, she just felt a bit flat to me - given how long this story is, we didn't find out much about her backstory, why she got into podcasting, or more about her relationships with the podcasting team. We got a glimpse at her family, and this was really nice, but wasn't quite enough grounding for me.
MMC
Keene. Ack. I really want to like Keene, and while he's good natured and genuine throughout the story, but there was a few bits that made me like him a whole lot less. For a character that we're told is incredibly smart, he doesn't show us this all too often, instead he comes across as far too trusting and makes some seriously dumb decisions in the name of love.
Likes:
- sweet
- honest
- cat dad
Dislikes:
- outs his paranormal/cryptid friends to a literal stranger
- tells said stranger private details about his secret friends, including their names and roughly where they live
The Rest
The rest of the cast was a big old blob of bleh.
Mira - did not come across that she liked her podcasting sidekick job at all. I know we learn more about her towards the end of the book, but she started on a real low and this did not make me like her at all. Even in the mini segments of their episodes together, she didn't come across as interested in anything Faith was saying or the paranormal themes.
Lily - is fine. I enjoyed her enthusiasm, especially at the end.
The Chemistry
This definitely sits further towards the lust side of the chemistry scale for me.
The Good
Having such a unique MMC was really lovely, and I did enjoy learning about his backstory and how the frog-human hybrid aspect thing works in his family.
The Bad
The third act conflict - I didn't get this at all and it annoyed me so much I'm debating sticking it under the uglies. It only serves as a plot device and wasn't in keeping with Keene's personality -
The Ugly
Nada.
The Wrap Up
Need a 6ft+ frog man in your life?
Massive thanks to Raen Tetra for letting me get my paws on this ahead of release.
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Find Me
Instagram
Storygraph
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Plot
The plot is a simple one - Faith, our podcasting heroine, travels to small town Vermont on the hunt for a captivating new show topic: the illusive Frogman. She immerses herself in the local frog themed festival and after a few short interviews, finds herself outside said Froggie's door.
I don't know exactly how I feel about this story. There's a lot to like, but there were also parts that just didn't vibe with me. Something was off about the pacing, with sections feeling slower than the rest, especially while Faith was farting around town 'investigating'. The story could have been a chunk shorter and I wouldn't have cared.
I think most of my other issues unfortunately lie with the characters themselves, which I'll get to down below. The world building was okay, with an interesting spin put on the MMC's 'condition', and I liked the addition of a mysterious relative. I did feel that the ending was a little too convenient - in reality I'm sure this would have gone terribly and wouldn't have been the HEA that we got (although I'm glad it worked out).
I've ummed and awed while writing this review on how to rate it with Goodreads stupid 1-5 stars - I think I'm going to make this a 2.5, rounded to 3 for the unique MMC who is also a cat dad. Peaches, you are a legend.
Characters
FMC
Faith. Oh Faith. There was just something about her that I can't quite put my finger on, but I just didn't like her as much as I felt I should.
Let's start with what I did like: this career, chef's kiss. I love it. I need more paranormal investigating podcasters in my life and thoroughly enjoyed all the little nuggets about her previous investigations.
After this, she just felt a bit flat to me - given how long this story is, we didn't find out much about her backstory, why she got into podcasting, or more about her relationships with the podcasting team. We got a glimpse at her family, and this was really nice, but wasn't quite enough grounding for me.
MMC
Keene. Ack. I really want to like Keene, and while he's good natured and genuine throughout the story, but there was a few bits that made me like him a whole lot less. For a character that we're told is incredibly smart, he doesn't show us this all too often, instead he comes across as far too trusting and makes some seriously dumb decisions in the name of love.
Likes:
- sweet
- honest
- cat dad
Dislikes:
- outs his paranormal/cryptid friends to a literal stranger
- tells said stranger private details about his secret friends, including their names and roughly where they live
The Rest
The rest of the cast was a big old blob of bleh.
Mira - did not come across that she liked her podcasting sidekick job at all. I know we learn more about her towards the end of the book, but she started on a real low and this did not make me like her at all. Even in the mini segments of their episodes together, she didn't come across as interested in anything Faith was saying or the paranormal themes.
Lily - is fine. I enjoyed her enthusiasm, especially at the end.
The Chemistry
This definitely sits further towards the lust side of the chemistry scale for me.
The Good
Having such a unique MMC was really lovely, and I did enjoy learning about his backstory and how the frog-human hybrid aspect thing works in his family.
The Bad
The third act conflict - I didn't get this at all and it annoyed me so much I'm debating sticking it under the uglies. It only serves as a plot device and wasn't in keeping with Keene's personality -
The Ugly
Nada.
The Wrap Up
Need a 6ft+ frog man in your life?
Massive thanks to Raen Tetra for letting me get my paws on this ahead of release.
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Find Me
Storygraph
August 19, 2025
***ARC Read***
After reading (and loving!) Below the Shadow of the City, Leap Into Faith became a highly anticipated read for me and even with those high hopes, this book blew my expectations out of the water (pun intended). Outside of the main romance, each character felt developed and had their own motivations for their behavior outside of their developing relationship. The creation of the frogman lore is novel, especially in a place that is geographically rife with cryptid lore and enthusiasts, so that was a fun thing to explore and see develop throughout the book. While this book contains some tropes that are traditionally not my favorite (won't list them here because spoilers), I trust this author in the same way that I trust Ali Hazelwood, Olivie Blake, and Lisina Coney to take me on a journey through tropes that I may otherwise avoid.
In addition to the characters themselves, this book felt like a love letter to New England. As someone who spent five years of my adulthood there, the descriptions and complicated feelings of living in sleepy New England towns felt like a nostalgic hug. Plus, the continued world-building from BTSOTC and the hints at the next book were fun easter eggs.
At its core, this is a romance book that reads like a contemporary rom-com with a monster MMC, but it's also a poignant reflection of what it means to be human and the power of building community in whatever ways we can.
Big thank you to Raen Tetra for allowing me to read this ARC! I can't wait to force everyone I know to read about the Bowley Frogman.
After reading (and loving!) Below the Shadow of the City, Leap Into Faith became a highly anticipated read for me and even with those high hopes, this book blew my expectations out of the water (pun intended). Outside of the main romance, each character felt developed and had their own motivations for their behavior outside of their developing relationship. The creation of the frogman lore is novel, especially in a place that is geographically rife with cryptid lore and enthusiasts, so that was a fun thing to explore and see develop throughout the book. While this book contains some tropes that are traditionally not my favorite (won't list them here because spoilers), I trust this author in the same way that I trust Ali Hazelwood, Olivie Blake, and Lisina Coney to take me on a journey through tropes that I may otherwise avoid.
In addition to the characters themselves, this book felt like a love letter to New England. As someone who spent five years of my adulthood there, the descriptions and complicated feelings of living in sleepy New England towns felt like a nostalgic hug. Plus, the continued world-building from BTSOTC and the hints at the next book were fun easter eggs.
At its core, this is a romance book that reads like a contemporary rom-com with a monster MMC, but it's also a poignant reflection of what it means to be human and the power of building community in whatever ways we can.
Big thank you to Raen Tetra for allowing me to read this ARC! I can't wait to force everyone I know to read about the Bowley Frogman.
September 16, 2025
If this author isn't on your TBR yet, she should be. Her books could be the literal definition of "Would I Smash and Yes Absolutely". You met Maddox in Below the Shadow of the City, now it's time to meet the most adorable cryptid you ever did meet - a frog man. But not just ANY frog man - Keene.
This series truly could be its own genre of Paranormal Romance. Raen words hook you in like a song you have stuck on repeat in your head, and live rent free long after the music ends.
We get so many sprinkles of everything in this book. Mystery, some suspense, romance, spice, lore, heartbreak, and some healing too. Faith embarks on an adventure to discover if the Frogman of Bowley, Vermont is real, and ends up finding out more than she anticipated in this small town. Keene not is the cryptid, but becomes HER cryptid as they start a whirlwind of nights bonding over everything under the stars.
Keene is someone who defied the odds, and showed up just as much human as he did "monster or local town legend". He works, has a cute patootie cat named Peaches, orders takeout, and wonders if there's a little something more meant for his carefully guarded life. He believes he finds that very thing in a certain pretty podcaster who shows up at his door.
While the weight of Faith's podcast research lingers above them, their hearts hang in the balance as feelings grow deeper. It turns into a romance that has them both taking a Leap of Faith.
This series truly could be its own genre of Paranormal Romance. Raen words hook you in like a song you have stuck on repeat in your head, and live rent free long after the music ends.
We get so many sprinkles of everything in this book. Mystery, some suspense, romance, spice, lore, heartbreak, and some healing too. Faith embarks on an adventure to discover if the Frogman of Bowley, Vermont is real, and ends up finding out more than she anticipated in this small town. Keene not is the cryptid, but becomes HER cryptid as they start a whirlwind of nights bonding over everything under the stars.
Keene is someone who defied the odds, and showed up just as much human as he did "monster or local town legend". He works, has a cute patootie cat named Peaches, orders takeout, and wonders if there's a little something more meant for his carefully guarded life. He believes he finds that very thing in a certain pretty podcaster who shows up at his door.
While the weight of Faith's podcast research lingers above them, their hearts hang in the balance as feelings grow deeper. It turns into a romance that has them both taking a Leap of Faith.
February 9, 2026
I’ll, I’ll be 100% honest here. I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. I grabbed this one based solely on the fact I thought it was a joke. I expected it to be poorly written, or at least written as a comedy. I was pleasantly surprised to find I enjoyed it immensely.
The writing style is really well done in my opinion. There were little to no repetitions of scenes or unnecessary plot points. It flows really well and the conflicts between characters are intriguing enough to follow, making me want to know more about it. I honestly wish there were more reviews or at least more people reading this author. I’m seriously considering reading the other books in this series.
I ADORE Keene, the resident Frogman. He is so fucking cute holy shit. He yearns for companionship and god dammit, he DESERVES it. For what he’s gone through this character could have very well turned into a jaded, angry at the world cynic who’s stuck in his ways. Basically a character that I would not enjoy reading if I’m being honest. Instead, he’s a somewhat shy, very polite and dare I say, emotional character?? One which isn’t always negative and angry but happy, humble, and sometimes embarrassed? I love him! I love his begging. Men growling is one thing (a thing that I do enjoy) but when men whimper, nice soft whimpers, with little noises? SIGN ME THE FUCK UP.
If the other books this author writes are similar to this one, I’ll have a great time!
The writing style is really well done in my opinion. There were little to no repetitions of scenes or unnecessary plot points. It flows really well and the conflicts between characters are intriguing enough to follow, making me want to know more about it. I honestly wish there were more reviews or at least more people reading this author. I’m seriously considering reading the other books in this series.
I ADORE Keene, the resident Frogman. He is so fucking cute holy shit. He yearns for companionship and god dammit, he DESERVES it. For what he’s gone through this character could have very well turned into a jaded, angry at the world cynic who’s stuck in his ways. Basically a character that I would not enjoy reading if I’m being honest. Instead, he’s a somewhat shy, very polite and dare I say, emotional character?? One which isn’t always negative and angry but happy, humble, and sometimes embarrassed? I love him! I love his begging. Men growling is one thing (a thing that I do enjoy) but when men whimper, nice soft whimpers, with little noises? SIGN ME THE FUCK UP.
If the other books this author writes are similar to this one, I’ll have a great time!
September 4, 2025
It’s rare that I read a monster I’ve never read before so I was super excited for this book. A Frogman cryptid sounded right up my alley and it definitely did not disappoint! I loved it right from the start; I think Faith is someone that anyone who reads this can connect to. A girl who loves the strange and unusual, hosting a cryptid and paranormal podcast is a fun new character dynamic. I also loved that Keene was just someone who wanted to live a normal life. Who was living a normal life for the most part, but just cut off from most people. He was also so sweet and happy to have someone around, cooking and ordering things for her, you couldn’t help but fall in love with him.
Also, when seeing a book weighing in at about 400 pages, you expect the spice to be further in but I think it’s perfectly placed. The spice is interwoven with the story and starts at about 25% through. It was great! Extra long tongues, manhandling her, a peen pocket and all his cryptid features made for some fun scenes! At its core, this book is about exploring the unknown because it makes us feel safer and steadier in our own lives. It’s about overcoming your fears and facing the things that scare you head on. It’s about gaining the confidence to be yourself through just one person seeing you for who you really are. It’s a monster romance sure, but don’t we all just want to be seen at the end of the day? Safe to say, I really enjoyed this one and it made me think, I loved it!
Also, when seeing a book weighing in at about 400 pages, you expect the spice to be further in but I think it’s perfectly placed. The spice is interwoven with the story and starts at about 25% through. It was great! Extra long tongues, manhandling her, a peen pocket and all his cryptid features made for some fun scenes! At its core, this book is about exploring the unknown because it makes us feel safer and steadier in our own lives. It’s about overcoming your fears and facing the things that scare you head on. It’s about gaining the confidence to be yourself through just one person seeing you for who you really are. It’s a monster romance sure, but don’t we all just want to be seen at the end of the day? Safe to say, I really enjoyed this one and it made me think, I loved it!
August 22, 2025
Thanks to Raen Tetra for the review copy and this is my honest review.
You know frog's tongue could lift up to 3 times its body weight? This fact will stay with me forever if I take nothing else away from this book but this book is much more than this fact, it's flipping sweet. It's insta-love and rom-com with a hero having a froggy likeness, so he's got the aforementioned strong tongue, webbed feet, soft dewy skin and cock pocket that's ribbit for her pleasure.
The paranormal podcaster heroine who signs off with the tagline to not bang cryptids on the first date went on a cross country search for a frog man and guess what? She ended up banging that cryptid on the first date, maybe it was something in the air or maybe because he's never been physically close with a woman before, but the way they were instantly into each other regardless of his physical appearance, if anything she found him beautiful, felt organic.
I really enjoyed the playfulness between the two, the lightheartedness and open communication in the bedroom. He's also a VIRGIN HERO and learned rather quickly at her guidance.
Overall adored the plot and the characters, the rom-com aspect helped balance between the heavier topics. It's my first book by the author and I'd definitely read more set in this world.
You know frog's tongue could lift up to 3 times its body weight? This fact will stay with me forever if I take nothing else away from this book but this book is much more than this fact, it's flipping sweet. It's insta-love and rom-com with a hero having a froggy likeness, so he's got the aforementioned strong tongue, webbed feet, soft dewy skin and cock pocket that's ribbit for her pleasure.
The paranormal podcaster heroine who signs off with the tagline to not bang cryptids on the first date went on a cross country search for a frog man and guess what? She ended up banging that cryptid on the first date, maybe it was something in the air or maybe because he's never been physically close with a woman before, but the way they were instantly into each other regardless of his physical appearance, if anything she found him beautiful, felt organic.
I really enjoyed the playfulness between the two, the lightheartedness and open communication in the bedroom. He's also a VIRGIN HERO and learned rather quickly at her guidance.
Overall adored the plot and the characters, the rom-com aspect helped balance between the heavier topics. It's my first book by the author and I'd definitely read more set in this world.
August 24, 2025
Leap into Faith is a really unique monster romance between a conspiracy podcaster and a frogman. And Keene is for those who complain when creators give a character only minimal "monstrous" physical qualities. Keene is a FROGman. Like all frog! But he's also an adorable awkward nerd who is also somehow smooth with Faith, despite having no experience. Keene is definitely one of my favorite MMCs I've read in a long time. I would also describe it as a love letter to late 90s/early 00s romcoms. So if you loved the slow burn and witty dialogue, you'll dig this!
What I love about Raen's books is that she builds in meaningful and reasonable conflict and true character development. So often in romances, it's surface level or occurs just to justify the reunion. But both, and especially Faith, need to grapple with past trauma and the coping mechanisms they have developed, and how those might actually be impeding living life in the way they want.
Spoiler: normally I hate a third-act breakup and 90s movie dramatic gesture/reuniting, but this couple NEEDS it.
I was a beta reader and chose to read the ARC, as well.
What I love about Raen's books is that she builds in meaningful and reasonable conflict and true character development. So often in romances, it's surface level or occurs just to justify the reunion. But both, and especially Faith, need to grapple with past trauma and the coping mechanisms they have developed, and how those might actually be impeding living life in the way they want.
Spoiler: normally I hate a third-act breakup and 90s movie dramatic gesture/reuniting, but this couple NEEDS it.
I was a beta reader and chose to read the ARC, as well.
August 26, 2025
Classic romcom meets curious cryptid and it absolutely delivers.
Faith and Keene are a match made in heaven!! They are goofy, genuine, and so sweet together. The way they open up to each despite their differences is heartwarming. They see each others hearts over what’s on the outside (even though they both are soooo down for what’s on the outside too)
There’s also something about a 6 foot frogman blushing that simply had me giggling. And if you’re wondering, “Is it really possible to make a green cryptid sexy?” yes. yes it is, and bonus points his skin is so soft!!! (not slimy thank GAWD) Don’t get me started on their banter, I was laughing and giggling throughout the whole book.
“..have you considered that you’re a person worth knowing?”
For such a fun plot, this book had so many emotional undertones that made me feel so connected to the characters (and so seen!!) They really drove home the idea that humanity can transcend more than just “being human” and living beings deserve connection.
If you’re looking for a book that feels like watching your favorite romcom movie under warm blankets or you’re curious how a redhead podcaster and cryptid frogman could fall in love, you’re going to want to pick this one up!!
Thank you Raen for the ARC 🫶🏼
Faith and Keene are a match made in heaven!! They are goofy, genuine, and so sweet together. The way they open up to each despite their differences is heartwarming. They see each others hearts over what’s on the outside (even though they both are soooo down for what’s on the outside too)
There’s also something about a 6 foot frogman blushing that simply had me giggling. And if you’re wondering, “Is it really possible to make a green cryptid sexy?” yes. yes it is, and bonus points his skin is so soft!!! (not slimy thank GAWD) Don’t get me started on their banter, I was laughing and giggling throughout the whole book.
“..have you considered that you’re a person worth knowing?”
For such a fun plot, this book had so many emotional undertones that made me feel so connected to the characters (and so seen!!) They really drove home the idea that humanity can transcend more than just “being human” and living beings deserve connection.
If you’re looking for a book that feels like watching your favorite romcom movie under warm blankets or you’re curious how a redhead podcaster and cryptid frogman could fall in love, you’re going to want to pick this one up!!
Thank you Raen for the ARC 🫶🏼
August 28, 2025
This was a very cute, very adorable, very hallmark-esque little monster romance.
I enjoyed the world, the plot and the characters. I would give it 3.75 ⭐️. Some things were really cute and good, and it lagged in a few other places for me.
First, the characters are super fun! I enjoyed each on their own and watching them come together. Our little frogman was all the green flags and for living a secluded life, he was surprisingly way better adjusted than 90% of people. I loved watching them interact. It was the right mix of cheesy cute and fun, and even a little spicy.
The spice was delicious and fun. We got some monster-y aspects, but also just good chemistry.
I think where it started to lose me was the big conflict in the end. I feel like our frogman went from 0-100 and way overreacted for how he was written the whole book. And I feel like the FMC really just rolled over and took it rather than putting her foot down and being like, let's talk about this. The conflict felt forced. Like it was leading to it but it kept feeling like it wasn't gonna go there and then bam it went full force.
But in the end, this was a super cutesy monster romance and I enjoyed it!
I enjoyed the world, the plot and the characters. I would give it 3.75 ⭐️. Some things were really cute and good, and it lagged in a few other places for me.
First, the characters are super fun! I enjoyed each on their own and watching them come together. Our little frogman was all the green flags and for living a secluded life, he was surprisingly way better adjusted than 90% of people. I loved watching them interact. It was the right mix of cheesy cute and fun, and even a little spicy.
The spice was delicious and fun. We got some monster-y aspects, but also just good chemistry.
I think where it started to lose me was the big conflict in the end. I feel like our frogman went from 0-100 and way overreacted for how he was written the whole book. And I feel like the FMC really just rolled over and took it rather than putting her foot down and being like, let's talk about this. The conflict felt forced. Like it was leading to it but it kept feeling like it wasn't gonna go there and then bam it went full force.
But in the end, this was a super cutesy monster romance and I enjoyed it!
September 14, 2025
✨✨ARC REVIEW✨✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Cryptids exist and live amongst the humans in an underground sense in this cozy fantasy! Our FMC Faith, a podcaster reporting on the strange and unusual goes out to Vermont in pursuit of seeing the revered Frogman during a festival held in his honor. She gets what she’s searching for and more.
I loved the romance that blossomed between these two characters! It was sweet seeing our shut in MMC open up and become comfortable with the FMC. This book does have a third act break up which was a bit unexpected but it really brings the story together as a whole!
If you’re looking for a cozy romance to pick up this fall then you’re going to want to pick up Leap of Faith! This is the author’s second published book and it is an interconnected stand alone with the first. I haven’t read Below the Shadow of the City and didn’t feel like I was missing anything because the author does a great job explaining things in this book. I have however added the first book to my tbr as this author’s writing is super addictive and I need more of their fun take on cryptids!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Cryptids exist and live amongst the humans in an underground sense in this cozy fantasy! Our FMC Faith, a podcaster reporting on the strange and unusual goes out to Vermont in pursuit of seeing the revered Frogman during a festival held in his honor. She gets what she’s searching for and more.
I loved the romance that blossomed between these two characters! It was sweet seeing our shut in MMC open up and become comfortable with the FMC. This book does have a third act break up which was a bit unexpected but it really brings the story together as a whole!
If you’re looking for a cozy romance to pick up this fall then you’re going to want to pick up Leap of Faith! This is the author’s second published book and it is an interconnected stand alone with the first. I haven’t read Below the Shadow of the City and didn’t feel like I was missing anything because the author does a great job explaining things in this book. I have however added the first book to my tbr as this author’s writing is super addictive and I need more of their fun take on cryptids!
September 17, 2025
I was so excited about this as soon as I saw the ad for it...
And it did not let me down!!! I really adored the modern-day cryptid x human, and especially the Podcaster angle. I loved Keene, he was wonderful. I liked Faith, HOWEVER, for someone who literally talks for a living, she sucks at communication and i wanted to take her by the shoulders and shake her like one of those 70s workout belt things because WTF lady.
Like, as someone who does also perpetually avoid uncomfortable situations i get it, but ugh. The angst.
There were a couple small things (small inconsistencies like looking at the time on a laptop she already closed, etc) but nothing crazy. I think probably the biggest criticism I had was that some of the transitions happened a little quickly and I had to reread to orient myself and mentally add a section break.
but I LOVED IT. It's wonderful and I will now be reading the first and can't wait for Kam's book!!!
RAEN TETRA, YOULL BE ON MY NEW RELEASE WATCHLIST! My TBR grumbles, but I care not 😂♥️🐸
Also, that peen pouch tho 👀 👌
And it did not let me down!!! I really adored the modern-day cryptid x human, and especially the Podcaster angle. I loved Keene, he was wonderful. I liked Faith, HOWEVER, for someone who literally talks for a living, she sucks at communication and i wanted to take her by the shoulders and shake her like one of those 70s workout belt things because WTF lady.
Like, as someone who does also perpetually avoid uncomfortable situations i get it, but ugh. The angst.
There were a couple small things (small inconsistencies like looking at the time on a laptop she already closed, etc) but nothing crazy. I think probably the biggest criticism I had was that some of the transitions happened a little quickly and I had to reread to orient myself and mentally add a section break.
but I LOVED IT. It's wonderful and I will now be reading the first and can't wait for Kam's book!!!
RAEN TETRA, YOULL BE ON MY NEW RELEASE WATCHLIST! My TBR grumbles, but I care not 😂♥️🐸
Also, that peen pouch tho 👀 👌
September 14, 2025
It’s hard to describe just how this book made me feel while reading. Comfy cozy happy is probably the best description. I honestly didn’t know what to expect going in as this was my first frogman cryptid (they’ve usually been more lizard like) and I’m sold. This book reads so easily that it feels like you’re just in the room with the characters. Things don’t feel forced or rushed.
I won’t do Keene justice by trying to describe him. The author does a great job making him so attractive to the reader. Like I want to protect this sweet man at all costs.
I did get frustrated at times with Faith’s naïveté with how the world may perceive a cryptid and she got a little pushy at times. However, Faith also grows as a character and figures out what matters most to her in the end.
This book is actually the second in the series. There is only a brief mention of characters from the first book, so you won’t be lost if this is your first read.
I won’t do Keene justice by trying to describe him. The author does a great job making him so attractive to the reader. Like I want to protect this sweet man at all costs.
I did get frustrated at times with Faith’s naïveté with how the world may perceive a cryptid and she got a little pushy at times. However, Faith also grows as a character and figures out what matters most to her in the end.
This book is actually the second in the series. There is only a brief mention of characters from the first book, so you won’t be lost if this is your first read.
September 14, 2025
I’m a devourer of monster romances, and this was my first time reading a book about a frogman. It was SO good!!
Truly a deeply satisfying and surprisingly emotional book to read. I can’t express how beautiful Keene and Faith’s individual character development was, each of them weaving their own new paths in the world that just so happen to intertwine. To be on this journey with them felt so special.
The real-life dealings with belonging and anticipatory grief were soooo touching and handled really well by the author. I cried multiple times throughout the book, seeing my own experiences reflected back to me.
There were some editing things that could’ve been better (lots of sentences that felt like run-ons) but overall I loved this book so much. Highly recommend if you love monster and/or paranormal romance!
Truly a deeply satisfying and surprisingly emotional book to read. I can’t express how beautiful Keene and Faith’s individual character development was, each of them weaving their own new paths in the world that just so happen to intertwine. To be on this journey with them felt so special.
The real-life dealings with belonging and anticipatory grief were soooo touching and handled really well by the author. I cried multiple times throughout the book, seeing my own experiences reflected back to me.
There were some editing things that could’ve been better (lots of sentences that felt like run-ons) but overall I loved this book so much. Highly recommend if you love monster and/or paranormal romance!
October 27, 2025
This book has the most genius premise. I mean... a crypid themed podcast host goes out to investigate the Frogman and she falls for him. Its just *chefs kiss*
This book is everything I love about monster romance - quirky, cozy and with a bit of existential crisis. Its a funny book but when it gets deep its so good. It explored themes of identity, belonging and humanity.
Keene aka the Frogman was nothing I expected him to be. And I happen to love literary surprises! He's sweet and kind, and quirky in his own way. THere is certain light-hearteness to him that I didn't use to see much in romance MMCs. It's honesty refreshing. But he has plenty of depth at the same time.
And Faith? Faith has struggles of her own (and I love how those wrapped up) but she's super charming. I love all those little podcast excerpts -they felt so real.
Side note: I want Keene's house
This book is everything I love about monster romance - quirky, cozy and with a bit of existential crisis. Its a funny book but when it gets deep its so good. It explored themes of identity, belonging and humanity.
Keene aka the Frogman was nothing I expected him to be. And I happen to love literary surprises! He's sweet and kind, and quirky in his own way. THere is certain light-hearteness to him that I didn't use to see much in romance MMCs. It's honesty refreshing. But he has plenty of depth at the same time.
And Faith? Faith has struggles of her own (and I love how those wrapped up) but she's super charming. I love all those little podcast excerpts -they felt so real.
Side note: I want Keene's house
September 7, 2025
Did you ever think you would want to fuck a frogman? No? Me neither until this book.
Rae did such a good job in developing the back story of the frogman and how they came to be. There was so much detail put into this story that you really got the full picture. And there are so many good quotable parts. I was very active with my highlighting while reading 😆
I love Keene! I just wanna hug him and tell him everything will be ok. But he doesn't need me for that, he has Faith. Those two together is so sweet on so many levels. They had so many romcom moments. Felt like I was reading a Hallmark movie at times. But those don't have spicy time and there was not a shortage of that. Loved being able to read about a never been done cryptid. This was so much fun.
Rae did such a good job in developing the back story of the frogman and how they came to be. There was so much detail put into this story that you really got the full picture. And there are so many good quotable parts. I was very active with my highlighting while reading 😆
I love Keene! I just wanna hug him and tell him everything will be ok. But he doesn't need me for that, he has Faith. Those two together is so sweet on so many levels. They had so many romcom moments. Felt like I was reading a Hallmark movie at times. But those don't have spicy time and there was not a shortage of that. Loved being able to read about a never been done cryptid. This was so much fun.
September 12, 2025
I'm just a girl. Standing here, and asking you to let a frogman into your heart. 😍
Y'all. You NEED to read this one. It's sweet, funny, spicy and so well written. Trust me, if you're even a tiny bit curious about whether you could get into the idea of frogman, READ THIS BOOK!
I especially loved getting to see the story through Faith’s eyes as a cryptid hunter and make the discovery right alongside her, while also seeing it from Keene’s POV as an unsuspecting regular guy just going about his business. The dual perspectives made it so engaging and heartfelt.
Keene and Faith are both insanely loveable characters, and I love their story so much 😍
This is book #2 in the series but can absolutely be read as a standalone. 🐸
Y'all. You NEED to read this one. It's sweet, funny, spicy and so well written. Trust me, if you're even a tiny bit curious about whether you could get into the idea of frogman, READ THIS BOOK!
I especially loved getting to see the story through Faith’s eyes as a cryptid hunter and make the discovery right alongside her, while also seeing it from Keene’s POV as an unsuspecting regular guy just going about his business. The dual perspectives made it so engaging and heartfelt.
Keene and Faith are both insanely loveable characters, and I love their story so much 😍
This is book #2 in the series but can absolutely be read as a standalone. 🐸
September 20, 2025
I’m slowly venturing into monster romances & this one was SO sweet! The MMC is a frogman, BUT don’t let that scare you off. 🐸 Honestly, I kept forgetting I was even reading a monster romance because Keene is just that freaking adorable & the fact that he has a cat named Princess Peach = cutest thing ever! 🐱
What really got me was how deeply I related to the main characters’ struggles with feeling unseen & not being able to live as your true, authentic self. Watching Faith & Keene slowly heal/grow together felt so heartwarming. Their relationship isn’t just romance—it’s comfort, trust & finding someone who really sees you. 🥹
If you’re in the mood for a monster romance that has the cozy charm of an early 2000s romcom, this is definitely one to pick up. Sweet, funny & tender. 🫶🏼
What really got me was how deeply I related to the main characters’ struggles with feeling unseen & not being able to live as your true, authentic self. Watching Faith & Keene slowly heal/grow together felt so heartwarming. Their relationship isn’t just romance—it’s comfort, trust & finding someone who really sees you. 🥹
If you’re in the mood for a monster romance that has the cozy charm of an early 2000s romcom, this is definitely one to pick up. Sweet, funny & tender. 🫶🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
3.5 Stars rounded up.
Overall this is an absolutely adorable paranormal romance. I love the idea of a Cryptid Hunter falling for a Cryptid, and everything else was pretty much just the icing on the cake. It's sweet, it's spicy, and the Frogman MC is so completely loveable. If you've ever watched a cheesy (in a good way) RomCom and thought, but what if the MMC was a giant frogman, I have the book for you!
I did feel like it was a little too long, and even as an unashamed lover of third act conflict/breakup, it felt a little contrived to me. I think this could've easily been a 250 page no angst romcom and I would've 5 starred it.
Overall this is an absolutely adorable paranormal romance. I love the idea of a Cryptid Hunter falling for a Cryptid, and everything else was pretty much just the icing on the cake. It's sweet, it's spicy, and the Frogman MC is so completely loveable. If you've ever watched a cheesy (in a good way) RomCom and thought, but what if the MMC was a giant frogman, I have the book for you!
I did feel like it was a little too long, and even as an unashamed lover of third act conflict/breakup, it felt a little contrived to me. I think this could've easily been a 250 page no angst romcom and I would've 5 starred it.
September 21, 2025
What do you get when you mix a curvy redhead, a frogman, and a paranormal podcast? A fantastic read! Leap into Faith by Rean Tetra is a delightful and surprisingly cozy romance that hit all the right notes for me. The main character, a former "weird" kid who escaped her small town for the big city, goes on a mission to find a frogman for her podcast. What she finds instead is a charming cryptid who is more man than frog and a small town that makes her realize what she's been missing. The story feels more like a contemporary romance than a paranormal one, which gives it a wonderfully grounded, cozy vibe. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet, character-driven romance with a fun, unique twist.
September 14, 2025
My random thoughts:
This book read like a late summer Hallmark movie. I'm not a fan of those tbh- but I enjoyed this one. It was cute and had me blushing at times. The FMC and MMC were very likeable.
It is definitely a good book to read with a glass of wine on the deck as the sun is going down - right when the fireflies are just starting to come out.
I had not heard of the Frogman until this book. Love adding a new cryptid to my list.
I loved that Keene stayed as Keene.
Definitely recommend checking this one out
This book read like a late summer Hallmark movie. I'm not a fan of those tbh- but I enjoyed this one. It was cute and had me blushing at times. The FMC and MMC were very likeable.
It is definitely a good book to read with a glass of wine on the deck as the sun is going down - right when the fireflies are just starting to come out.
I had not heard of the Frogman until this book. Love adding a new cryptid to my list.
I loved that Keene stayed as Keene.
Definitely recommend checking this one out
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