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Hallow's Cove
Screwed by the Minotaur in Hallow's Cove
Lea Thomson arrives in the charming town of Hallows Cove with plans to open a second location of her family's flower shop, seeking a fresh start after the devastating loss of her mother. Staying at the local inn, she scopes out the dilapidated shop she's purchased sight unseen, planning to stay under the radar until she's ready for her grand opening. But then she runs into Rick, a handsome minotaur, and sparks immediately fly.
But Rick has never had a serious relationship and likes to play it "casual." Thinking Lea isn't going to stick around, he leaves the next morning without even saying goodbye. When he discovers it's going to be Lea's flower shop beside his hardware store, an ugly confrontation sets the two at odds before renovation has even begun. Can Lea and Rick get past their troubled beginnings to embrace the undeniable attraction between them?
This is a cozy, sweet and steamy monster romance novella that takes place in the small town of Hallow's Cove, a shared world in a multi-author series. Screwed by the Minotaur features a playboy minotaur MMC, and a strong human FMC who is trying to start over in a new place. Please check the content warnings on the author's website or in the book sample.
But Rick has never had a serious relationship and likes to play it "casual." Thinking Lea isn't going to stick around, he leaves the next morning without even saying goodbye. When he discovers it's going to be Lea's flower shop beside his hardware store, an ugly confrontation sets the two at odds before renovation has even begun. Can Lea and Rick get past their troubled beginnings to embrace the undeniable attraction between them?
This is a cozy, sweet and steamy monster romance novella that takes place in the small town of Hallow's Cove, a shared world in a multi-author series. Screwed by the Minotaur features a playboy minotaur MMC, and a strong human FMC who is trying to start over in a new place. Please check the content warnings on the author's website or in the book sample.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
127 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Jenifer Wood
6 books157 followersJen has been reading for as long as she can remember. She used to get in trouble for reading Little House on the Prairie under her desk in elementary school.
Jen is married to a very polite Englishman she brought back as a souvenir from her college study abroad trip. She has identical twin mutants who make her question her sanity daily. When not writing, she enjoys reading about monster dick, napping, and watching soothing cooking shows.
She is a goth kid at heart and truly wishes she could wear platform combat boots and black nail polish on all occasions.
Jen is married to a very polite Englishman she brought back as a souvenir from her college study abroad trip. She has identical twin mutants who make her question her sanity daily. When not writing, she enjoys reading about monster dick, napping, and watching soothing cooking shows.
She is a goth kid at heart and truly wishes she could wear platform combat boots and black nail polish on all occasions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
September 3, 2025
Let me start by saying. Lea is a romantic and she has a ONS with Rick and shes hurt he left. When she said she was cool with the whole thing. Girl make up your mind. Dont do stuff you know you dislike. So that's what made me eh on her and this is all 20% in thr beginning. I cant hate or be mad at Rick for not sticking around. And not being mad when Lea go all off on him when she sees him again. Like? you said!! Don't be a bitch to him for listening to what you said. So yeah she annoyed me with that.
The 2 had good chemistry when they stop "fighting" Rick really changed his ways since he was very standoffish. And Lea went from dealing with Grief to opening up and moving onto great things.
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Slowishburn
Age gap
One night stand
Praise kink
Size difference
Humanxmonster
No condom
Grief (parent passed away)
Hea
Epilogue
The 2 had good chemistry when they stop "fighting" Rick really changed his ways since he was very standoffish. And Lea went from dealing with Grief to opening up and moving onto great things.
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Slowishburn
Age gap
One night stand
Praise kink
Size difference
Humanxmonster
No condom
Grief (parent passed away)
Hea
Epilogue
August 1, 2025
Our MFC Lea, who is grieving the loss of her mother, decides to open a second flower shop in Hallow’s Cove. The last thing she expects to find is a hunky, sweet Minotaur named Rick.
This is my first ever Hallow’s Cove read (even though all of them are currently sitting on my shelf to be read) and I’m so glad I was given the opportunity by Jenifer to read this one.
If I had to summarize this book in a few words, I would say: spicy, sweet, novella, second chance.
I adore Jenifer and her writing, and this novella is just another example and a PERFECT edition to the Hallow’s Cove universe.
If you’re a girlie who is thinking about getting into monster/nonhuman romance, I would recommend this to you!!!
I did receive this book as an arc from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is my first ever Hallow’s Cove read (even though all of them are currently sitting on my shelf to be read) and I’m so glad I was given the opportunity by Jenifer to read this one.
If I had to summarize this book in a few words, I would say: spicy, sweet, novella, second chance.
I adore Jenifer and her writing, and this novella is just another example and a PERFECT edition to the Hallow’s Cove universe.
If you’re a girlie who is thinking about getting into monster/nonhuman romance, I would recommend this to you!!!
I did receive this book as an arc from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 21, 2025
Smutty and poignant, this novella is a perfect addition to the Hallow’s Cove series.
Florist Lea is grieving the loss of her beloved mother, who was her constant, her person for her entire life. Together they ran the shop Lea’s grandmother had founded, and the rawness of her loss has Lea adrift and struggling to move forward. At her best friend’s urging, Lea decides to open a second location in Hallow’s Cove, slipping without fanfare into the town where she has an intensely passionate hookup with a s3xy minotaur.
After a mind blowing one night stand, Rick leaves his bedmate peacefully sleeping to open his hardware store. Several hours later, he’s visited by the now furi0us young woman who rocked his world, informing him she’s in town indefinitely and they’re now neighbors for the duration.
What follows is an unexpectedly sweet yet very steamy series of encounters between the two, while exploring grief and growth.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and Bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Florist Lea is grieving the loss of her beloved mother, who was her constant, her person for her entire life. Together they ran the shop Lea’s grandmother had founded, and the rawness of her loss has Lea adrift and struggling to move forward. At her best friend’s urging, Lea decides to open a second location in Hallow’s Cove, slipping without fanfare into the town where she has an intensely passionate hookup with a s3xy minotaur.
After a mind blowing one night stand, Rick leaves his bedmate peacefully sleeping to open his hardware store. Several hours later, he’s visited by the now furi0us young woman who rocked his world, informing him she’s in town indefinitely and they’re now neighbors for the duration.
What follows is an unexpectedly sweet yet very steamy series of encounters between the two, while exploring grief and growth.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and Bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
August 8, 2025
The chemistry between the characters is there from the start with a mix of vulnerability and strength that makes the novella really interesting. Having lost my mom, I really related to Lea and was cheering for her the entire way. Even through the bits of miscommunication and challenges she faced with Rick, their ability to build trust by the end can really give the reader hope.
The writing was a nice pace and I’m interested to read more stories in Hollow’s Cove (This was my first one!). I’m proud to have been an ARC reader for this beautiful number and hope to do it again because this one was one of the best ARCs this year❤️❤️
The writing was a nice pace and I’m interested to read more stories in Hollow’s Cove (This was my first one!). I’m proud to have been an ARC reader for this beautiful number and hope to do it again because this one was one of the best ARCs this year❤️❤️
July 31, 2025
Some walls are meant to be torn down, and some hearts are meant to be rebuilt.
Weighed down by grief and burnout Lea leaves the city for a fresh start in Hallow’s Cove. A dusty storefront and a tiny apartment become her second chance, even if she never expected the hardware store next door to come with Rick, a broad-shouldered minotaur. Their awkward tension sparks into something she can't ignore.
Rick is steady, loyal, and far more complicated than his quiet exterior suggests. A single night together changes things, but missteps and misunderstandings threaten to push them apart. Lea’s return to the city forces them both to decide if this was just a fleeting moment or the start of something more.
Back in Hallow’s Cove, the work is not just on walls and windows but on trust, belonging, and finding a way forward together. Rick surprises her with patience and persistence, and Lea finds her footing in the rhythm of a shop that feels like home. When the grand opening arrives, it is not just the flowers that are in bloom but a life she never thought she could have again.
Lea evolves from a grieving and hesitant woman into someone confident in her choices, finding both independence and a sense of home in Hallow’s Cove. Rick grows from a guarded local into a supportive partner willing to be vulnerable and open about his feelings. Their relationship shifts from initial attraction and miscommunication to mutual trust and commitment, ultimately settling into a partnership built on shared plans and a deep sense of belonging.
A steamy minotaur-human, grumpy sunshine, small town romance, exploring love, grief, healing, community, found family, trust, second chances, personal growth, and belonging. It's about healing, love, and community, where second chances take root and grow into something strong. And, finding a place to belong, trusting someone to stay, and building a future brick by brick, bouquet by bouquet.
Weighed down by grief and burnout Lea leaves the city for a fresh start in Hallow’s Cove. A dusty storefront and a tiny apartment become her second chance, even if she never expected the hardware store next door to come with Rick, a broad-shouldered minotaur. Their awkward tension sparks into something she can't ignore.
Rick is steady, loyal, and far more complicated than his quiet exterior suggests. A single night together changes things, but missteps and misunderstandings threaten to push them apart. Lea’s return to the city forces them both to decide if this was just a fleeting moment or the start of something more.
Back in Hallow’s Cove, the work is not just on walls and windows but on trust, belonging, and finding a way forward together. Rick surprises her with patience and persistence, and Lea finds her footing in the rhythm of a shop that feels like home. When the grand opening arrives, it is not just the flowers that are in bloom but a life she never thought she could have again.
Lea evolves from a grieving and hesitant woman into someone confident in her choices, finding both independence and a sense of home in Hallow’s Cove. Rick grows from a guarded local into a supportive partner willing to be vulnerable and open about his feelings. Their relationship shifts from initial attraction and miscommunication to mutual trust and commitment, ultimately settling into a partnership built on shared plans and a deep sense of belonging.
A steamy minotaur-human, grumpy sunshine, small town romance, exploring love, grief, healing, community, found family, trust, second chances, personal growth, and belonging. It's about healing, love, and community, where second chances take root and grow into something strong. And, finding a place to belong, trusting someone to stay, and building a future brick by brick, bouquet by bouquet.
August 2, 2025
Even though they agreed on only one night, they both felt the connection and knew there was something more. But then again, Rick leaves Lea in the morning like nothing happened, which results in hurting her.
Surprisingly, it turns out Lea's new flower shop is right next to Rick's. From this moment on, it gets interesting. Because even though they had one night, they still have time to start fresh and get to know each other.
I honestly loved these two. She is beautiful, feisty and brave. He is a little shy, but when it comes to the bedroom, he is a bossy alpha minotaur....oh and completely mesmerized by Lea.
There was so much spice. I enjoyed every single one of their scenes. The smut was so good and the burning heat between them was unstoppable.
Overall, I loved reading Lea and Rick's story.
***I received an ARC from the author and my review is given voluntarily***.
Surprisingly, it turns out Lea's new flower shop is right next to Rick's. From this moment on, it gets interesting. Because even though they had one night, they still have time to start fresh and get to know each other.
I honestly loved these two. She is beautiful, feisty and brave. He is a little shy, but when it comes to the bedroom, he is a bossy alpha minotaur....oh and completely mesmerized by Lea.
There was so much spice. I enjoyed every single one of their scenes. The smut was so good and the burning heat between them was unstoppable.
Overall, I loved reading Lea and Rick's story.
***I received an ARC from the author and my review is given voluntarily***.
July 30, 2025
Lea moves to Hallow’s Cove to open a second location of her family's flower shop, with the added hope that a change of scenery will give her a fresh start after the devastating loss of her mother. She decides to arrive to town a little early and see what she can learn about the area and the locals. When she literally runs into Rick (the local minotaur and hardware shop owner), the spark is instant. Finding love definitely wasn’t in her plans for this new start to life, but she has hopes this may be the beginning of a great connection after an intense one night stand with Rick. That is until she wakes up…AND HE’S GONE! Without even a GOODBYE!!
As a proud minotaur lover, let me tell you…this book sure knows how to satiate your “bull man cravings”! ;) . The love story between Lea & Rick was rough and vulnerable - which is exactly what I think they both needed. I was also sooo glad that Lea wasn’t afraid to confront Rick right away after he snuck out of bed in the morning. He needed to be put in his place and with her sticking around, it was better to clear the air as soon as possible.
I loved seeing the vulnerability displayed by both characters and how they were able to be there for each other. They were able to overcome their bumpy start and find a safe space in each other that allowed them to show sides of themselves they’d never let others even get a glimpse of.
I am obsessed with the town of Hallow’s Cove, and it’s always a treat to get a glimpse back at the couples we’ve met so far. (Psst…there may or may not be a bonus scene you should keep an eye out for. Just saying.)
This cozy small town romance packed a PUNCH with the rough and primal spice. There is definitely no doubting the connection these two have and I am so thankful to Jenifer Wood for bringing us such a great read!
As a proud minotaur lover, let me tell you…this book sure knows how to satiate your “bull man cravings”! ;) . The love story between Lea & Rick was rough and vulnerable - which is exactly what I think they both needed. I was also sooo glad that Lea wasn’t afraid to confront Rick right away after he snuck out of bed in the morning. He needed to be put in his place and with her sticking around, it was better to clear the air as soon as possible.
I loved seeing the vulnerability displayed by both characters and how they were able to be there for each other. They were able to overcome their bumpy start and find a safe space in each other that allowed them to show sides of themselves they’d never let others even get a glimpse of.
I am obsessed with the town of Hallow’s Cove, and it’s always a treat to get a glimpse back at the couples we’ve met so far. (Psst…there may or may not be a bonus scene you should keep an eye out for. Just saying.)
This cozy small town romance packed a PUNCH with the rough and primal spice. There is definitely no doubting the connection these two have and I am so thankful to Jenifer Wood for bringing us such a great read!
August 1, 2025
Delightfully sweet and swoonerifically delicious. This was a delightful escape and I loved seeing Hallow's Cove through this lens.
Lea/Azalea is a human artist/florist who is opening a new shop in Hallow's Cove.
Rick is a minotaur who owns the hardware store in Hallow's Cove.
They run into each other when she is visiting Hallow's Cove to check out the building she is buying. He thinks she is passing through. She doesn't want people to know yet that she is starting a business. He invites her to the bar. She goes. They spend the night together doing adult activities. He leaves in the morning without a goodbye, a note, nothing. She repsonds with rage from a place of hurt. Things get ugly. Then they get hot. Then they get real and emotional and intense.
Lea is dealing with the death of her mom a year ago and is understandably struggling with how you keep living when your world died. Walking with her through her pain, numbness, questions, and uncertainty is sad but beautiful and there is a hope to it.
Rick is dealing with learning how not to be a fool. Because leaving without even a square of toilet paper with "bye" scribbled on it was fool behaviour. Sorry not sorry. But really, he is dealing with learning to trust when people tell him he is enough, he is loveable, he is worthy, he is good.
They are both absolutely loveable characters and I was cheering so hard for them as they walked through life and hard things.
This was my first Jenifer Woods book and I really enjoyed it. The story flowed well, characters were easy to keep track of and the emotions were authentic.
I received this as an ARC and am beyond grateful. This had zero impact on my review which is based entirely on my thoughts & feelings of the story itself.
Lea/Azalea is a human artist/florist who is opening a new shop in Hallow's Cove.
Rick is a minotaur who owns the hardware store in Hallow's Cove.
They run into each other when she is visiting Hallow's Cove to check out the building she is buying. He thinks she is passing through. She doesn't want people to know yet that she is starting a business. He invites her to the bar. She goes. They spend the night together doing adult activities. He leaves in the morning without a goodbye, a note, nothing. She repsonds with rage from a place of hurt. Things get ugly. Then they get hot. Then they get real and emotional and intense.
Lea is dealing with the death of her mom a year ago and is understandably struggling with how you keep living when your world died. Walking with her through her pain, numbness, questions, and uncertainty is sad but beautiful and there is a hope to it.
Rick is dealing with learning how not to be a fool. Because leaving without even a square of toilet paper with "bye" scribbled on it was fool behaviour. Sorry not sorry. But really, he is dealing with learning to trust when people tell him he is enough, he is loveable, he is worthy, he is good.
They are both absolutely loveable characters and I was cheering so hard for them as they walked through life and hard things.
This was my first Jenifer Woods book and I really enjoyed it. The story flowed well, characters were easy to keep track of and the emotions were authentic.
I received this as an ARC and am beyond grateful. This had zero impact on my review which is based entirely on my thoughts & feelings of the story itself.
July 24, 2025
I am a member of the Hallow's Cove ARC team and I received an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I came in for some fun (and red HOT) monster smut but I ended up reading one of the most poignant romance stories so far this year!!
First of all, Jenifer's writing is INCREDIBLE! So deeply poetic and profound, you forget that you are reading about a magical small town of human/monster pairings and find yourself reading about deep instantaneous connections, bonding through grief, and some very really vulnerability.
Lea just lost her mother and she is dealing with the burden of that grief by opening a second store in Hallow's Cove. Rick, the hometown playboy, is usually able to get by without having to make meaningful connections. Just work at the hardware store, go to the bar for a rattlesnake bite, and go home (or find someone...lol). But all that change with one night when they meet and it is more than just a one-night-stand. Those beautiful relationships where you just CLICK with someone, where there is no time limit and you just want to stay awake so the moment will last. Then the subsequent miscommunication (and REALLY hot love/hate chemistry!!) makes the fallout so much more meaningful because you KNOW that night meant something deeper to the both of them, especially how grief has impacted both of their lives.
I never wanted this book to end (and there is a REALLY cute bonus epilogue that is REQUIRED..or should be..lol) and I cannot recommend the Hallow's Cove series enough. Every installment is so much fun and sexy and sweet but this one has to be my favorite of them all.
I came in for some fun (and red HOT) monster smut but I ended up reading one of the most poignant romance stories so far this year!!
First of all, Jenifer's writing is INCREDIBLE! So deeply poetic and profound, you forget that you are reading about a magical small town of human/monster pairings and find yourself reading about deep instantaneous connections, bonding through grief, and some very really vulnerability.
Lea just lost her mother and she is dealing with the burden of that grief by opening a second store in Hallow's Cove. Rick, the hometown playboy, is usually able to get by without having to make meaningful connections. Just work at the hardware store, go to the bar for a rattlesnake bite, and go home (or find someone...lol). But all that change with one night when they meet and it is more than just a one-night-stand. Those beautiful relationships where you just CLICK with someone, where there is no time limit and you just want to stay awake so the moment will last. Then the subsequent miscommunication (and REALLY hot love/hate chemistry!!) makes the fallout so much more meaningful because you KNOW that night meant something deeper to the both of them, especially how grief has impacted both of their lives.
I never wanted this book to end (and there is a REALLY cute bonus epilogue that is REQUIRED..or should be..lol) and I cannot recommend the Hallow's Cove series enough. Every installment is so much fun and sexy and sweet but this one has to be my favorite of them all.
December 26, 2025
Wtf? I honestly can’t remember the last time a book pissed me off this much.
First of all, and maybe I’m just misremembering here, but Rick didn’t feel like the same character at all compared to the first book. Or maybe I’m mixing them up, and the two minotaurs are actually completely different characters. I don’t even know anymore.
That alone already left me disappointed, but then Lea just put the cherry on top. She lies about how long she’s staying in the city, then sleeps with the minotaur fully aware it’s just going to be a one-night stand. And when he leaves the next morning without saying goodbye, like, you know, people sometimes do after a one-night stand, she completely loses it, and basically half the book is her spiraling over it. Like… girl, it was a one-night stand. What did you think was going to happen? And on top of that, the whole situation was set up by your own pointless lie. Why act like you just got dumped after a year-long relationship? You swapped a couple of sad backstories, hooked up, and that’s it. That’s nowhere near enough for me to spend half a book reading about your heartbreak.
And then the second half of the story… honestly, I was already so annoyed by the first half that I just couldn’t bring myself to care anymore.
First of all, and maybe I’m just misremembering here, but Rick didn’t feel like the same character at all compared to the first book. Or maybe I’m mixing them up, and the two minotaurs are actually completely different characters. I don’t even know anymore.
That alone already left me disappointed, but then Lea just put the cherry on top. She lies about how long she’s staying in the city, then sleeps with the minotaur fully aware it’s just going to be a one-night stand. And when he leaves the next morning without saying goodbye, like, you know, people sometimes do after a one-night stand, she completely loses it, and basically half the book is her spiraling over it. Like… girl, it was a one-night stand. What did you think was going to happen? And on top of that, the whole situation was set up by your own pointless lie. Why act like you just got dumped after a year-long relationship? You swapped a couple of sad backstories, hooked up, and that’s it. That’s nowhere near enough for me to spend half a book reading about your heartbreak.
And then the second half of the story… honestly, I was already so annoyed by the first half that I just couldn’t bring myself to care anymore.
July 28, 2025
I think all the books from the In Hollows Cove series have been fantastic, but Screwed by the Minotaur by Jenifer wood has quickly become my favorite. This book not only covers the back and forth love story between our Human FMC Lea and our Minotaur MMC Rick, but it digs deep into feelings of starting over and loss. Feelings are belonging and making a life for yourself.
I think this book has hit me the hardest in the series because without getting TOO personal, it reminded me of my own life. I lost my grandmother earlier this year and she was a huge part of my life, basically a second mother to me. So the feelings and struggles that Lea went through in this book really hit home for me, because I feel like I was JUST feeling them myself. To me Lea felt so relatable and real, and Rick really was just what she needed to be able to grow and move on. And in her own way, she became an anchor for Rick, who really was just going through the motions of life up until he met her.
I just loved every second of this book and if you're considering reading it then I 100% think you should pick it up when it releases 🩷
I think this book has hit me the hardest in the series because without getting TOO personal, it reminded me of my own life. I lost my grandmother earlier this year and she was a huge part of my life, basically a second mother to me. So the feelings and struggles that Lea went through in this book really hit home for me, because I feel like I was JUST feeling them myself. To me Lea felt so relatable and real, and Rick really was just what she needed to be able to grow and move on. And in her own way, she became an anchor for Rick, who really was just going through the motions of life up until he met her.
I just loved every second of this book and if you're considering reading it then I 100% think you should pick it up when it releases 🩷
August 1, 2025
This was such a wonderful edition to the Hallow’s Cove series! I’ve loved all the books in this series so far, but this one was up there in my favorites. I really loved the chemistry between the two characters and the communication the two developed through the story. Lea and Rick were both such interesting characters, I really enjoyed their dynamic and the little bit of angst between them. Both characters felt very relatable and well written, and once again I really love the little bits of lore about Hallow’s Cove peppered throughout this series.
Both characters had such wonderful growth and were very likable! I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t seem to put it down when I started it. This is a book that I’d highly recommend, especially if you’re looking for a fun and sweet monster romance!
I would like to thank Jenifer Wood for kindly sending me an e-arc of this book! I can’t wait for more of the Hallow’s Cove series!
Both characters had such wonderful growth and were very likable! I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t seem to put it down when I started it. This is a book that I’d highly recommend, especially if you’re looking for a fun and sweet monster romance!
I would like to thank Jenifer Wood for kindly sending me an e-arc of this book! I can’t wait for more of the Hallow’s Cove series!
July 24, 2025
ARC Review: Screwed by the Minotaur in Hallow’s Cove by @authorjeniferwood
Launches: Aug 1, 2025 in KU/ebook
4 ⭐️ 3 😭 3 🌶️
🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺
At first I thought I wasn’t going to like this book because of *trope that I hate*, but as I read through more of it, it slowly evolved to liking it pretty well. It definitely made me go through big emotions from hate, to swoon, to grief, and relief. If you want an emotional rollercoaster, this is for you. *pls check content warnings if you have triggers*
This book is part of the Hallow’s Cove series that is a collaboration of different authors. It is a series of interconnected standalones and it’s such a joy to see characters from the other books interact with the main characters in each book. I’ve read 3 out@of the 6 (working on the 4th).
🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻
#books #readmorebooks #bookstagram #hallowscove #monsterromance #cozymonster #jeniferwood
69/52
Launches: Aug 1, 2025 in KU/ebook
4 ⭐️ 3 😭 3 🌶️
🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺
At first I thought I wasn’t going to like this book because of *trope that I hate*, but as I read through more of it, it slowly evolved to liking it pretty well. It definitely made me go through big emotions from hate, to swoon, to grief, and relief. If you want an emotional rollercoaster, this is for you. *pls check content warnings if you have triggers*
This book is part of the Hallow’s Cove series that is a collaboration of different authors. It is a series of interconnected standalones and it’s such a joy to see characters from the other books interact with the main characters in each book. I’ve read 3 out@of the 6 (working on the 4th).
🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻
#books #readmorebooks #bookstagram #hallowscove #monsterromance #cozymonster #jeniferwood
69/52
August 11, 2025
I love this small town monster series! In this instalment you get hardware story owner Ricks story. He meets Lea who has a lot going on in the background and is looking for a change and a challenge of opening her flower business in a new town away from some sad memories. These two have instant chemistry and are both so obviously looking for a connection while at the same time avoiding them! I loved that when Rick messed up Lea confronted him and didn't just avoid the situation and awkward conversations. This story touches a lot on grief and grieving and how that looks different for everyone. I thought these two were made for each other and I was rooting for them!
August 1, 2025
What I have come to expect with my Hallow's Cove stories: short, sweet, and spicy! I have started recommending these as great monster smut starters because you get what you expect with monsters but it is tied up in a nice little smutty-sweet bow!
I love how RIck and Lea's relationship is fiery and passion but then they both want more... but we have to learn to ask and say what we mean even if there is a chance that we might get hurt or they don't reciprocate.
I received an eARC of this book, but the review is entirely my own.
I love how RIck and Lea's relationship is fiery and passion but then they both want more... but we have to learn to ask and say what we mean even if there is a chance that we might get hurt or they don't reciprocate.
I received an eARC of this book, but the review is entirely my own.
July 21, 2025
Wow! I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book and I finished it in one sitting. Can I please move to Hallow's Cove already?
Lea is my kind of FMC: strong but flawed, brave yet relatable. Rick might be my favorite monster book boyfriend. He is sweet and real. I won't say anymore to avoid spoilers, but I love this kind of love story.
I can't wait to read more from the Hallow's Cove series and Jenifer Wood!
Lea is my kind of FMC: strong but flawed, brave yet relatable. Rick might be my favorite monster book boyfriend. He is sweet and real. I won't say anymore to avoid spoilers, but I love this kind of love story.
I can't wait to read more from the Hallow's Cove series and Jenifer Wood!
August 7, 2025
"I was here in Hallow's Cove on somewhat of a stealth mission." - Lea
Do read CWs! This read starts from chapter one until the end handling the loss of a mother. Lea's mom passed away a year ago, but grief doesn't have a time limit or looks the same for everyone. Trying to get away from seeing her mother in everything Lea goes to Hallow's Cove. With the gentle kick from her best friend Lea opens a second flower shop location!
Not wanting to be seen as the "New Girl" in town she decides to keep her business to herself aside from the contractor and his crew helping her fix up the shop. Being a simple tourist there for the weekend she runs into a handsome minotaur that has her weak in the knees! Her and Rick hit it off instantly and things go very well until the one-night stand is over. Both realizing they wished for more but misunderstandings leading to poor conclusions. Lea is about to get a crash course in what it means to be in a smalltown where you WILL run into your hookup.
This review is going to be bit different. There may be some spoilers, but I will try to not ruin things. Reading is subjective and this book wasn't fully for me! I felt a little mislead with the marketing for this book. This installment may be the one you needed to read and is your favorite out of the collection! I was sad because I absolutely adore this series and Hallow's Cove!
I liked Lea outside of the romance. She's a strong woman who isn't afraid to roll up her sleeves and get down to business. Impressing the grumpy, ogre, contractor Randy who doesn't warm-up easily to newcomers. But because of Lea's grit and determination he gladly welcomed her into his crew and his life. Along with his wife! Pretty sure if Lea asked for them to adopt her, they would in a heartbeat!
Rick was a great guy and one who had a big heart and patience! To me and how I read the narrative he didn't strike me as the typical "playboy". I got the impression that he had been one in the past, but it stopped a while ago. When he met Lea he had been single and without any company for a long time. I was on his side with a lot of things that happened within this book!
What rubbed me the wrong way and again this is just MY honest and personal opinion. You may think the complete opposite from me. Is Lea's behavior. She made it clear to Rick that this was going to be a one-night stand, and sorry but one night-stands never end well. People don't realize that you share more than just bodily fluids when you are intimate with someone. Energy transfers, connections, and emotions. She practically held the door open for him to leave and then got mad that he did in fact leave. Rick protecting his heart from breaking harder than it already was with his knowledge that she'd be gone by Monday morning.
Lea's dealing with the consequences and not taking it well at all! Several times she built Rick up to be this bad guy and the villain in all her mental scenarios. Even vented to a Hallow's Cove resident about Rick being a jerk. When in fact he wasn't in the least. She even made scenes in public yelling at my poor guy when he goes to her PRIVATE residences to confront her, she snaps at him. He does raise his voice out of frustration, but she shuts him down for yelling. . .Sorry, hun but double standard.
Do read through the CWs. Both MCs have family losses and relate to the grief of losing someone. Language is spread throughout along with feelings of guilt, uncertainty, mental breakdowns, and more. Having to cut threads and being able to say goodbye to things and ending chapters of your life.
The romance was rough, and I didn't really enjoy it. I loved the start and how quick and heated things were and the witty banter between the two! But after the one-night stand I wasn't into that aspect of the read. Truthfully, I wanted to see how things would end and if there were any important notes for the town or residents. Actual non yelling communication does happen, and apologies are made on both fronts.
I'm sorry this installment wasn't for me. I'm glad the two had a happy HEA and things were settled. I'm still going to of course continue the series because I love this collection of reads set in Hallow's Cove! And if you read my review and agree or feel like this installment isn't for you then the book can be skipped. Each read does tie into the town in some way, but they don't make or break the series! But again, reading is subjective, and this is just my take!
Enjoy the read and don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.com
Do read CWs! This read starts from chapter one until the end handling the loss of a mother. Lea's mom passed away a year ago, but grief doesn't have a time limit or looks the same for everyone. Trying to get away from seeing her mother in everything Lea goes to Hallow's Cove. With the gentle kick from her best friend Lea opens a second flower shop location!
Not wanting to be seen as the "New Girl" in town she decides to keep her business to herself aside from the contractor and his crew helping her fix up the shop. Being a simple tourist there for the weekend she runs into a handsome minotaur that has her weak in the knees! Her and Rick hit it off instantly and things go very well until the one-night stand is over. Both realizing they wished for more but misunderstandings leading to poor conclusions. Lea is about to get a crash course in what it means to be in a smalltown where you WILL run into your hookup.
This review is going to be bit different. There may be some spoilers, but I will try to not ruin things. Reading is subjective and this book wasn't fully for me! I felt a little mislead with the marketing for this book. This installment may be the one you needed to read and is your favorite out of the collection! I was sad because I absolutely adore this series and Hallow's Cove!
I liked Lea outside of the romance. She's a strong woman who isn't afraid to roll up her sleeves and get down to business. Impressing the grumpy, ogre, contractor Randy who doesn't warm-up easily to newcomers. But because of Lea's grit and determination he gladly welcomed her into his crew and his life. Along with his wife! Pretty sure if Lea asked for them to adopt her, they would in a heartbeat!
Rick was a great guy and one who had a big heart and patience! To me and how I read the narrative he didn't strike me as the typical "playboy". I got the impression that he had been one in the past, but it stopped a while ago. When he met Lea he had been single and without any company for a long time. I was on his side with a lot of things that happened within this book!
What rubbed me the wrong way and again this is just MY honest and personal opinion. You may think the complete opposite from me. Is Lea's behavior. She made it clear to Rick that this was going to be a one-night stand, and sorry but one night-stands never end well. People don't realize that you share more than just bodily fluids when you are intimate with someone. Energy transfers, connections, and emotions. She practically held the door open for him to leave and then got mad that he did in fact leave. Rick protecting his heart from breaking harder than it already was with his knowledge that she'd be gone by Monday morning.
Lea's dealing with the consequences and not taking it well at all! Several times she built Rick up to be this bad guy and the villain in all her mental scenarios. Even vented to a Hallow's Cove resident about Rick being a jerk. When in fact he wasn't in the least. She even made scenes in public yelling at my poor guy when he goes to her PRIVATE residences to confront her, she snaps at him. He does raise his voice out of frustration, but she shuts him down for yelling. . .Sorry, hun but double standard.
Do read through the CWs. Both MCs have family losses and relate to the grief of losing someone. Language is spread throughout along with feelings of guilt, uncertainty, mental breakdowns, and more. Having to cut threads and being able to say goodbye to things and ending chapters of your life.
The romance was rough, and I didn't really enjoy it. I loved the start and how quick and heated things were and the witty banter between the two! But after the one-night stand I wasn't into that aspect of the read. Truthfully, I wanted to see how things would end and if there were any important notes for the town or residents. Actual non yelling communication does happen, and apologies are made on both fronts.
I'm sorry this installment wasn't for me. I'm glad the two had a happy HEA and things were settled. I'm still going to of course continue the series because I love this collection of reads set in Hallow's Cove! And if you read my review and agree or feel like this installment isn't for you then the book can be skipped. Each read does tie into the town in some way, but they don't make or break the series! But again, reading is subjective, and this is just my take!
Enjoy the read and don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.com
August 2, 2025
This was a short spicy monster book.
🚩🚩Be aware this story does deal with themes of grief and the effects it has on the MFC Lea. But also, Rick, the MMC, sharing his own experiences.🚩🚩
I've read monster books before but this one read a bit differently for me. I didn't get the vibe of monster with Rick. He seemed more human than minotaur. He was a sweet guy throughout. When he meets Lea in the small town of Hallow's Cove one weekend, he likes her. Lea also likes him. She came to this town, aware of it being a monster community, to maybe start a new chapter in her life with a new flower shop to honor the memory of her Mother.
After meeting at the bar, Rick being told by Lea she's passing through, a tourist, and one thing lead to another... and it turns into a one night stand. One night. Then. Rick was gone. But Lea flipped the script folks. She went bat 💩 crazy with anger and resentment.😱🤬 His hardware store happens to be next door to her new and upcoming flower shop. It got ugly. And for me, I didn't like Lea acting all fatal attraction.😳 It wasn't funny. Lea, you're an adult act like one. Rick didn't play you. Take responsibility for your part in that room and what you said.🙄😑 But it ran deeper for her as Rick steps up to the plate. He did like her but if it had been another man/monster, would she have had acted the same way? I think so.
It was okay read, I guess. A misunderstanding. But something was missing for me. I felt like it was more about being physical to not be alone at times. To have someone help someone else dealing with loss and depression, to lean on, and start again. Even if they had barely met. Cute book cover. Happy reading.*•>§<•*❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹
👩🏽🦱🌷🦬Thank you to Ms Wood. The thoughts shared here are my own.🦬🌷���🏽🦱
🚩🚩Be aware this story does deal with themes of grief and the effects it has on the MFC Lea. But also, Rick, the MMC, sharing his own experiences.🚩🚩
I've read monster books before but this one read a bit differently for me. I didn't get the vibe of monster with Rick. He seemed more human than minotaur. He was a sweet guy throughout. When he meets Lea in the small town of Hallow's Cove one weekend, he likes her. Lea also likes him. She came to this town, aware of it being a monster community, to maybe start a new chapter in her life with a new flower shop to honor the memory of her Mother.
After meeting at the bar, Rick being told by Lea she's passing through, a tourist, and one thing lead to another... and it turns into a one night stand. One night. Then. Rick was gone. But Lea flipped the script folks. She went bat 💩 crazy with anger and resentment.😱🤬 His hardware store happens to be next door to her new and upcoming flower shop. It got ugly. And for me, I didn't like Lea acting all fatal attraction.😳 It wasn't funny. Lea, you're an adult act like one. Rick didn't play you. Take responsibility for your part in that room and what you said.🙄😑 But it ran deeper for her as Rick steps up to the plate. He did like her but if it had been another man/monster, would she have had acted the same way? I think so.
It was okay read, I guess. A misunderstanding. But something was missing for me. I felt like it was more about being physical to not be alone at times. To have someone help someone else dealing with loss and depression, to lean on, and start again. Even if they had barely met. Cute book cover. Happy reading.*•>§<•*❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹
👩🏽🦱🌷🦬Thank you to Ms Wood. The thoughts shared here are my own.🦬🌷���🏽🦱
August 7, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited
July 19, 2025
Another great addition to the Hallow’s Cove multi-author series!! I can’t wait to read more by Jenifer Wood after this!
What I loved:
1. If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I love minotaurs and small-town romances, so those definitely made this a must-read for me right from the beginning!
2. I loved that grief was explored as not something you get over like a checklist item, but something that lingers and you learn to live with.
Both MCs had experiences with grief and handled them differently. He shut off relationships because everyone who had raised him was gone so didn’t want to risk getting close to someone else. She was still knee-deep in the opening lines of grief from her mother’s recent passing, still being haunted by finding notes with her writing, her perfume scent still in the air, etc. and feeling like she had to be stronger than she was. Together, he learned he could open up to someone again, and she learned she didn’t have to be strong alone.
3. I loved that her flower business was a family business and they all had had flower names (Her grandma, her mom, and then her). The flower business really became her foundation for grieving and it had such a beautiful outcome.
4. I loved how he had the whole town surprise her for her grand opening, and they all did because she was part of the town now!
5. I loved all the Maisie time we got, of course! As well as some of the characters I hadn’t met yet but equally fell in love with, like Randy.
6. Finally, I loved the equal parts rough sex we got along with the very intimate love making scenes. The progression of these instances were perfect for the couple and their intimacy was definitely used as part of their healing process, which I loved!
Thank you to Jenifer Wood for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.25 stars!
What I loved:
1. If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I love minotaurs and small-town romances, so those definitely made this a must-read for me right from the beginning!
2. I loved that grief was explored as not something you get over like a checklist item, but something that lingers and you learn to live with.
Both MCs had experiences with grief and handled them differently. He shut off relationships because everyone who had raised him was gone so didn’t want to risk getting close to someone else. She was still knee-deep in the opening lines of grief from her mother’s recent passing, still being haunted by finding notes with her writing, her perfume scent still in the air, etc. and feeling like she had to be stronger than she was. Together, he learned he could open up to someone again, and she learned she didn’t have to be strong alone.
3. I loved that her flower business was a family business and they all had had flower names (Her grandma, her mom, and then her). The flower business really became her foundation for grieving and it had such a beautiful outcome.
4. I loved how he had the whole town surprise her for her grand opening, and they all did because she was part of the town now!
5. I loved all the Maisie time we got, of course! As well as some of the characters I hadn’t met yet but equally fell in love with, like Randy.
6. Finally, I loved the equal parts rough sex we got along with the very intimate love making scenes. The progression of these instances were perfect for the couple and their intimacy was definitely used as part of their healing process, which I loved!
Thank you to Jenifer Wood for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.25 stars!
August 2, 2025
Okay, I'm so conflicted here. There are so many things I enjoyed about this book; it's hot, there's angst, and an excellent real representation of what living through greif is like. There were almost constant quotes that made me laugh and cry throughout the story and I highlighted a bunch along the way. I also loved the romance, but it didn't feel fully genuine bc they went from hella mad at each other to hate sex to in love in what felt like seconds.
Yet, there are also still so many things I really didn't like. Lea's reaction after their initial night together was over the top. Her continued reactions are honestly toxic and anyone who acts out like this in real life would definitely benefit from therapy (normalize therapy - everyone should be in therapy). This is not a depiction of a healthy relationship and I absolutly believe that Rick picked up a lot of the emotional intelligence slack. Why was she even mad?! She lied, she agreed to a one night stand, and all of a sudden he's the jerk? She even acknowledged these things as fact and STILL acted out. I fully understand greif does wild things to rationality, but this was aggressive and didn't sit right with me.
Overall, I think this was a good, quick read that I'm glad I was able to read. I liked having more lore from Hallow's Cove and I'm very thankful to have had the opportunity to read this as an advanced copy.
Yet, there are also still so many things I really didn't like. Lea's reaction after their initial night together was over the top. Her continued reactions are honestly toxic and anyone who acts out like this in real life would definitely benefit from therapy (normalize therapy - everyone should be in therapy). This is not a depiction of a healthy relationship and I absolutly believe that Rick picked up a lot of the emotional intelligence slack. Why was she even mad?! She lied, she agreed to a one night stand, and all of a sudden he's the jerk? She even acknowledged these things as fact and STILL acted out. I fully understand greif does wild things to rationality, but this was aggressive and didn't sit right with me.
Overall, I think this was a good, quick read that I'm glad I was able to read. I liked having more lore from Hallow's Cove and I'm very thankful to have had the opportunity to read this as an advanced copy.
September 1, 2025
While I really enjoyed parts of this book, I don't think I was really ready for some of the heavier grief processing that was a decent plot point in the story for personal issues.
Lea is trying to move through the grief that is losing her mom, who was a huge part of her life. That grief brings her to starting a new life in Hallow's Cove in a new flower shop. It also brings her into contact with the minotaur next door, Rick. Can their brief affair lead to more? can this be the fresh start Lea needs?
I did like the aspect and representation of active grieving - i, personally, had to step away from the book for a week or two because of it. Losing my mom so recently, I couldn't take the mirror of my own private grief process at the time when I didn't really expect it (auto-buy of the series, wasn't sure if i actually read the description if I'm being honest).
I did like it despite the personal grief gut punch, but there were some reactions from Rick in the beginning of their relationship that rubbed me wrong. Once again, that's a personal thing, and he did grow on me by the end of the story.
Lea is trying to move through the grief that is losing her mom, who was a huge part of her life. That grief brings her to starting a new life in Hallow's Cove in a new flower shop. It also brings her into contact with the minotaur next door, Rick. Can their brief affair lead to more? can this be the fresh start Lea needs?
I did like the aspect and representation of active grieving - i, personally, had to step away from the book for a week or two because of it. Losing my mom so recently, I couldn't take the mirror of my own private grief process at the time when I didn't really expect it (auto-buy of the series, wasn't sure if i actually read the description if I'm being honest).
I did like it despite the personal grief gut punch, but there were some reactions from Rick in the beginning of their relationship that rubbed me wrong. Once again, that's a personal thing, and he did grow on me by the end of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I love a Minotaur romance and I really enjoyed Jenifer’s Nilfhelm series so picking this up was a no brainer. I enjoyed it, but there were some parts that kept it from being 4-5 stars for me. Azalea rebuilding her florist shop and finding herself after losing her mom was a lovely story, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the way she and Rick interacted for a chunk of the book. It was just missing something I couldn’t quite quantify, but the way Rick ends up stepping up for Lea is touching in the end. It’s a quick, spicy read so if you’re looking for something to cleanse your palate this would be a good choice.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I love a Minotaur romance and I really enjoyed Jenifer’s Nilfhelm series so picking this up was a no brainer. I enjoyed it, but there were some parts that kept it from being 4-5 stars for me. Azalea rebuilding her florist shop and finding herself after losing her mom was a lovely story, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the way she and Rick interacted for a chunk of the book. It was just missing something I couldn’t quite quantify, but the way Rick ends up stepping up for Lea is touching in the end. It’s a quick, spicy read so if you’re looking for something to cleanse your palate this would be a good choice.
July 28, 2025
Like all the other stories in the Hallow's Cove series I enjoyed this one very much!
Lea lost her mother to cancer and was adrift ever since, yeah she was working, eating and sleeping, but every day spent in her mother's flower shop made her even more depressed. Her best friend and coworker convinced her to open a second location, they were doing pretty well financially and a new location would help Lea process her grief without being constantly battered by the memories of her mom. So Lea found a store in a nearby town of Hallow's Cove and bought it without even seeing it in person. Both the shop and a flat upstairs needed some work so when she got to Hallow's Cove she stayed for a few days in the inn. Her first day in town she ran into a handsome minotaur, and decided to go to a bar he mentioned. They had a great time at the bar and she decided to invite him to her room. The sex was great and they were really cozy in the afterglow.
When Lea realized that Rick left without a word she was PISSED. She opened up to him, let him see her vulnerability and thought that he was opening up to her too, so it stung as all hell that he just sneaked out. But
They were both idiots, they spent hours talking, yet their communication was shit ;) They both wanted more, but they didn't say that so they clashed whenever they met. Their behavior was a bit toxic at times, but the romance was still there, besides smuttiness they had their sweet moments too. Lea was an emotional wreck, so no wonder she was a little unhinged at times, and Rick started with an emotional range of a teaspoon, but during the story he understood Lea better and started behaving like a good guy we all knew he was ;) I loved the romantic date he organized for Lea!
I'd love if the story was a bit longer and we saw more of the renovation, because Randy and his crew were the first people to welcome Lea to town and I wanted to see more of the big monsters helping her build her dream shop. I loved the cameos of previous books' main characters, they always make the town feel more real.
I'm sad the epilogue didn't show them a few months later, living together, messy, a bit crazy, but happily in love.
Lea lost her mother to cancer and was adrift ever since, yeah she was working, eating and sleeping, but every day spent in her mother's flower shop made her even more depressed. Her best friend and coworker convinced her to open a second location, they were doing pretty well financially and a new location would help Lea process her grief without being constantly battered by the memories of her mom. So Lea found a store in a nearby town of Hallow's Cove and bought it without even seeing it in person. Both the shop and a flat upstairs needed some work so when she got to Hallow's Cove she stayed for a few days in the inn. Her first day in town she ran into a handsome minotaur, and decided to go to a bar he mentioned. They had a great time at the bar and she decided to invite him to her room. The sex was great and they were really cozy in the afterglow.
When Lea realized that Rick left without a word she was PISSED. She opened up to him, let him see her vulnerability and thought that he was opening up to her too, so it stung as all hell that he just sneaked out. But
They were both idiots, they spent hours talking, yet their communication was shit ;) They both wanted more, but they didn't say that so they clashed whenever they met. Their behavior was a bit toxic at times, but the romance was still there, besides smuttiness they had their sweet moments too. Lea was an emotional wreck, so no wonder she was a little unhinged at times, and Rick started with an emotional range of a teaspoon, but during the story he understood Lea better and started behaving like a good guy we all knew he was ;) I loved the romantic date he organized for Lea!
I'd love if the story was a bit longer and we saw more of the renovation, because Randy and his crew were the first people to welcome Lea to town and I wanted to see more of the big monsters helping her build her dream shop. I loved the cameos of previous books' main characters, they always make the town feel more real.
I'm sad the epilogue didn't show them a few months later, living together, messy, a bit crazy, but happily in love.
August 26, 2025
Worst of the series. I didn’t like either of the characters much and their relationship was so shallow and lame. This book was super boring. If it was any longer I wouldn’t have finished it.
They were really toxic at first for no reason and it was just immature and annoying. Then suddenly they’re so invested even though they’d just hooked up twice without really hanging out. Also the smut was really boring.
There were weird moments that I felt the author forgot he was supposed to be a Minotaur because it would say his cheeks or ears turned pink or something.
I am disappointed because I liked some parts like her grieving her mom and opening the new plant shop but the book was just too short to do those things justice while also having a romance plot.
Oh also I think that when an author writes a character of color they should do more research and think more about how to integrate that into the character. There was nothing offensive towards black woman in the book but the only thing indicating this character was black was her curly hair. It felt pretty clear that they were just trying to add some diversity to the series so made a character black but if she wasn’t black nothing in the story or character would change.
I feel like so many non black authors who write a black woman make her wear her natural hair all the time without showing any of the work and care that goes into maintaining that style. This girl was just sleeping on her curls with no bonnet every night and then hopping up in the morning and quickly putting it in a single braid or in a “poof” with a scarf. Plus that her curls kept being referred to as “wild” which I feel is a lazy and overdone way of talking about curly hair.
I also think that a black woman would be less inclined to being weird about seeing monsters for the first time and lowkey committing micro aggressions. That’s a common theme throughout these books and I understand you would feel a certain way seeing a monster for the first time but I think a person of color would have more of an understanding of how to react.
While we’re here, I think in general calling them monsters feels weird. In real life you know there would be online debate about whether monsters is an offensive term and if it’s a micro aggression to touch a Wolven’s fur lol. But throughout these books I just keep imagining if you replaced the word “monster” or the other monster races with the name of a real world marginalized race, it would sound so bad.
“What does a Minotaur like you do in a place like this?”
“It’s fine, go find your vampire.”
Etc. You know what I mean? These are only the ones I remember from this book and they’re not even bad, especially compared to some other ones in other books. Feels weird and fetish-y.
They were really toxic at first for no reason and it was just immature and annoying. Then suddenly they’re so invested even though they’d just hooked up twice without really hanging out. Also the smut was really boring.
There were weird moments that I felt the author forgot he was supposed to be a Minotaur because it would say his cheeks or ears turned pink or something.
I am disappointed because I liked some parts like her grieving her mom and opening the new plant shop but the book was just too short to do those things justice while also having a romance plot.
Oh also I think that when an author writes a character of color they should do more research and think more about how to integrate that into the character. There was nothing offensive towards black woman in the book but the only thing indicating this character was black was her curly hair. It felt pretty clear that they were just trying to add some diversity to the series so made a character black but if she wasn’t black nothing in the story or character would change.
I feel like so many non black authors who write a black woman make her wear her natural hair all the time without showing any of the work and care that goes into maintaining that style. This girl was just sleeping on her curls with no bonnet every night and then hopping up in the morning and quickly putting it in a single braid or in a “poof” with a scarf. Plus that her curls kept being referred to as “wild” which I feel is a lazy and overdone way of talking about curly hair.
I also think that a black woman would be less inclined to being weird about seeing monsters for the first time and lowkey committing micro aggressions. That’s a common theme throughout these books and I understand you would feel a certain way seeing a monster for the first time but I think a person of color would have more of an understanding of how to react.
While we’re here, I think in general calling them monsters feels weird. In real life you know there would be online debate about whether monsters is an offensive term and if it’s a micro aggression to touch a Wolven’s fur lol. But throughout these books I just keep imagining if you replaced the word “monster” or the other monster races with the name of a real world marginalized race, it would sound so bad.
“What does a Minotaur like you do in a place like this?”
“It’s fine, go find your vampire.”
Etc. You know what I mean? These are only the ones I remember from this book and they’re not even bad, especially compared to some other ones in other books. Feels weird and fetish-y.
July 25, 2025
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. And I got to say, it was very clear I could give my very honest review, which was very nice since this is my first experience, no need to say I found the whole process very exciting!
I liked this novella, it was charming, it was sweet, it was bitter also, and the amount of spicy was just right (if there's such a thing), it was also well paced, not to overwhelming (considering there's a warning for roughness).
This story follows Lea who recently lost her mom and is grieving, her best friend knows she's having a hard time and encourages her to go and start fresh in a new place, to change airs and give herself a chance to find her place. She goes to Hollow's Cove, a place where monsters live, and there she mets Rick.
I think their chemistry is great, they both feel confortable with each other, they lack a bit of honesty at first but otherwise they are great green flags to each other. Lea struggles and Rick finds the way to be there.
Although the point with romance novellas is just that: romance, I think this is more a story about moving on, about finding peace and find your happy place. The way the author writes about grieving, about Lea's feelings for her mother, is just sweet and heartfelt. I could see a grow of her character, although, I think there were some missing moments that could have enrich the story even more, the help she recieved from Randy and company for example, that would been nice to read, we could have seen how Lea learned that she's not alone, that there are people willing and happy to be there for here aswell.
There were other moments in which I got a bit lost, a continuity thing, at one moment something is happening and at the next paragraph is the next day, things like that. I didn't take it as a terrible thing but just small things that break a bit the flow.
I liked the ending but I felt it finished rather fast. There's no drama here, "problems" are resolved soon enough, in that sense I felt the ending a bit in the air although it was a good one.
I enjoyed the author's style for describing this world´s places and characters, all the elements there for me to imagine. Smooth and charming. I think for readers who are not really used to monster romance this could be ok, we know Rick is a minotaur but we are not told everytime about his unique features (well, except one).
All in all, I think I could give this novella 3.75 stars, just because I think it needed a bit more words, but 4 is just as good.
I liked this novella, it was charming, it was sweet, it was bitter also, and the amount of spicy was just right (if there's such a thing), it was also well paced, not to overwhelming (considering there's a warning for roughness).
This story follows Lea who recently lost her mom and is grieving, her best friend knows she's having a hard time and encourages her to go and start fresh in a new place, to change airs and give herself a chance to find her place. She goes to Hollow's Cove, a place where monsters live, and there she mets Rick.
I think their chemistry is great, they both feel confortable with each other, they lack a bit of honesty at first but otherwise they are great green flags to each other. Lea struggles and Rick finds the way to be there.
Although the point with romance novellas is just that: romance, I think this is more a story about moving on, about finding peace and find your happy place. The way the author writes about grieving, about Lea's feelings for her mother, is just sweet and heartfelt. I could see a grow of her character, although, I think there were some missing moments that could have enrich the story even more, the help she recieved from Randy and company for example, that would been nice to read, we could have seen how Lea learned that she's not alone, that there are people willing and happy to be there for here aswell.
There were other moments in which I got a bit lost, a continuity thing, at one moment something is happening and at the next paragraph is the next day, things like that. I didn't take it as a terrible thing but just small things that break a bit the flow.
I liked the ending but I felt it finished rather fast. There's no drama here, "problems" are resolved soon enough, in that sense I felt the ending a bit in the air although it was a good one.
I enjoyed the author's style for describing this world´s places and characters, all the elements there for me to imagine. Smooth and charming. I think for readers who are not really used to monster romance this could be ok, we know Rick is a minotaur but we are not told everytime about his unique features (well, except one).
All in all, I think I could give this novella 3.75 stars, just because I think it needed a bit more words, but 4 is just as good.
July 28, 2025
I want to preface this review with "this will definitely be someone else's jam" because I genuinely think that of all books, and this one is no exception. However, it was not my jam for two reasons. The first one is the more important one - the theme of grief is really heavy and intertwined throughout the story that really warrants a different/more comprehensive TW in my opinion. As of when I got my ARC, it simply says "parental death (past)" and to me, that means it might be mentioned in passing but it is not on page or a big theme. It IS a big theme though; it's the FMCs motivation for leaving and opening a new shop in Hallow's Cove, and it's talked about very deeply immediately after the first intimate scenes with the MMC (it would also maybe be beneficial to add a Cancer (family member) TW because Lea talks about how caregiving for her mother through that destroyed her, I wouldn't have ARCd this if I had known tbqh). My suggestion would be adding "dealing with grief" or "heavy themes of grief" to the content warning list.
The second reason is more a personal preference thing and I'm going to put it under spoiler tags, because I don’t want to spoiler the entire review so people can see the grief TW.
Otherwise, I think Jenifer Wood's writing style is easy to read and I can see myself picking up something else by her! And again, I think this story could definitely be someone else's jam, so please don't let the 3 stars dissuade you from trying it if you don’t mind my two hangups.
The second reason is more a personal preference thing and I'm going to put it under spoiler tags, because I don’t want to spoiler the entire review so people can see the grief TW.
Otherwise, I think Jenifer Wood's writing style is easy to read and I can see myself picking up something else by her! And again, I think this story could definitely be someone else's jam, so please don't let the 3 stars dissuade you from trying it if you don’t mind my two hangups.
August 1, 2025
Azalea, more often known as Lea, is grieving the mother she lost a year ago, while trying to run the flower shop that was bequeathed to her by said mother. Britt, her manager, convinces her to stop living in grief and recommends that Lea open up another flower shop somewhere else. That somewhere else is, of course, is Hallow’s Cove.
She buys a building, site unseen, in the small town, and though there is a lot of work to be done in order to turn it into a flower shop, she’s ready for this new challenge. She’s just…not telling people about it.
Rick, the minotaur who runs the town’s hardware store, meets Lea at the local bar, and sparks fly. They have a life-changing night together, but Rick thinks it’s still a one-night stand and leaves in the morning without a note or a farewell. Like that kind of passion is something he’ll find with anyone else? Seriously, Rick?
Lea doesn’t take the abandonment well, and makes him aware of it. She’s already been through enough loss, and though they’d both agreed that their night was a one-time thing, she knew early on after getting him home that she’d found something special. And boy, does she make her anger and disappointment known, and frankly, good for her.
This story is so much more than “just a monster romance”. Lea is working through some heavy-duty things, and finding that there is no timetable for grief. Her journey is profound, and Rick is a big part of it (once they stop fighting and get back to the fun stuff). I loved the two of them together, and how well they worked in and out of the bedroom.
The book is so well written that I could visualize every little thing the author described. She made another corner of Hallow’s Cove come to full-color life. Yes, the book is steamy, but the sex isn’t just sex. It becomes so much more, something neither Lea nor Rick anticipated ever feeling. It truly makes me wish I could visit this place.
It’s so sweet and satisfying that Lea and Rick find each other, and learn how to truly be there for each other, no matter what. This might be my favorite book of the series, and as I’ve loved them all so far, that’s quite the accomplishment. I can’t wait to see what this author does next.
She buys a building, site unseen, in the small town, and though there is a lot of work to be done in order to turn it into a flower shop, she’s ready for this new challenge. She’s just…not telling people about it.
Rick, the minotaur who runs the town’s hardware store, meets Lea at the local bar, and sparks fly. They have a life-changing night together, but Rick thinks it’s still a one-night stand and leaves in the morning without a note or a farewell. Like that kind of passion is something he’ll find with anyone else? Seriously, Rick?
Lea doesn’t take the abandonment well, and makes him aware of it. She’s already been through enough loss, and though they’d both agreed that their night was a one-time thing, she knew early on after getting him home that she’d found something special. And boy, does she make her anger and disappointment known, and frankly, good for her.
This story is so much more than “just a monster romance”. Lea is working through some heavy-duty things, and finding that there is no timetable for grief. Her journey is profound, and Rick is a big part of it (once they stop fighting and get back to the fun stuff). I loved the two of them together, and how well they worked in and out of the bedroom.
The book is so well written that I could visualize every little thing the author described. She made another corner of Hallow’s Cove come to full-color life. Yes, the book is steamy, but the sex isn’t just sex. It becomes so much more, something neither Lea nor Rick anticipated ever feeling. It truly makes me wish I could visit this place.
It’s so sweet and satisfying that Lea and Rick find each other, and learn how to truly be there for each other, no matter what. This might be my favorite book of the series, and as I’ve loved them all so far, that’s quite the accomplishment. I can’t wait to see what this author does next.
July 29, 2025
"But there was a point, with every good night, where you had to open your door and trust the world would still be waiting in the morning."
Lea's in Hallow's Cove to open a second branch of her flower shop. She met Rick, a minotaur and owner of the hardware store, and they spent one night together but he left the next morning.
Read the first 40% of this book, and sadly I did not like that first half of the book.
I did not resonate with how Lea reacted with their circumstances that I soured towards her that she didn't redeemed herself in my eyes till the end.
Now, this book dealt with heavy grief with Lea being pulled in different directions and carrying so much alone. I get that, but the way she was portrayed was a strong woman but at the same time, a damsel in distress. Ofc our minotaur is the knight in shining armor.
I wished we get to see more of Rick because he's also the main character but we didn't see his background story or traumas enough because the book was heavily focused on Lea.
"the grief came back in little bursts, like hiccups that refused to be soothed."
On the other hand, this book was a great portrayal of a person dealing with grief. I just knew that the author wrote this properly with care and caution considering how the representation felt vivid and authentic for me.
Is it me or is Jenifer's writing style is improving? Because I am liking her writing style now.
This book got great found-family trope with the whole community of Hallow's Cove and some cameos from the characters of the previous books.
Lea's in Hallow's Cove to open a second branch of her flower shop. She met Rick, a minotaur and owner of the hardware store, and they spent one night together but he left the next morning.
Read the first 40% of this book, and sadly I did not like that first half of the book.
I did not resonate with how Lea reacted with their circumstances that I soured towards her that she didn't redeemed herself in my eyes till the end.
Now, this book dealt with heavy grief with Lea being pulled in different directions and carrying so much alone. I get that, but the way she was portrayed was a strong woman but at the same time, a damsel in distress. Ofc our minotaur is the knight in shining armor.
I wished we get to see more of Rick because he's also the main character but we didn't see his background story or traumas enough because the book was heavily focused on Lea.
"the grief came back in little bursts, like hiccups that refused to be soothed."
On the other hand, this book was a great portrayal of a person dealing with grief. I just knew that the author wrote this properly with care and caution considering how the representation felt vivid and authentic for me.
Is it me or is Jenifer's writing style is improving? Because I am liking her writing style now.
This book got great found-family trope with the whole community of Hallow's Cove and some cameos from the characters of the previous books.
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