What do you think?
Rate this book
A Malicious Menagerie
Welcome to the menagerie, and please, mind the fangs…Twenty-two-year-old Anna Carmichael is down on her luck. Even juggling three dead-end jobs, she’s struggling to keep herself and her ailing grandmother afloat. When she’s offered a position as caretaker for an eccentric rich man’s collection of exotic animals, she jumps at the opportunity despite the ominous nondisclosure agreement. The reason for all the secrecy is revealed when Anna discovers that the residents of Mars Mathis’s Mystical Menagerie aren’t exotic—they’re mythological.
Her boss's chilling warnings leave no doubt—these creatures are his property, and he'll protect them at any cost. Anna's moral compass shatters as she befriends the very beings she's meant to cage. And an unexpected but irresistible passion ignites with Chase, the enigmatic wolf, as powerful and protective as he is trapped. Caught between her unwavering loyalty to her grandmother, the menagerie’s deadly threats, and a love bound by iron bars, Anna must decide—what is she willing to sacrifice?
A paranormal romance perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Patricia Briggs!
Her boss's chilling warnings leave no doubt—these creatures are his property, and he'll protect them at any cost. Anna's moral compass shatters as she befriends the very beings she's meant to cage. And an unexpected but irresistible passion ignites with Chase, the enigmatic wolf, as powerful and protective as he is trapped. Caught between her unwavering loyalty to her grandmother, the menagerie’s deadly threats, and a love bound by iron bars, Anna must decide—what is she willing to sacrifice?
A paranormal romance perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Patricia Briggs!
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2025
43 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 3, 2025
A Malicious Menagerie is the first paranormal romance in the Fangs & Fables series. I believe these stories will be independent, but in the same world, and I'm looking forward to the second book.
The story begins when we meet twenty-two-year-old Anna Carmichael. Anna is working three jobs to support herself and her ailing grandmother. Anna was attending school to become a veterinarian but left when her grandmother became ill. She currently pays for her to live in a facility and is behind on the monthly payment when she gets offered a caretaker position. The job is with exotic animals and comes with fantastic pay and benefits, not to mention a serious NDA.
Welcome to Mars Mathis’s Mystical Menagerie. On the first night on the job, Anna discovers the creatures she'll be taking care of aren’t exotic; they are mythological. We've got every kind of creature, from those of fairytales to a wendigo. All locked up in an exotic (zoo) collection for a wealthy man who likes to show them off to his clients and friends. Mostly, Anna is left on her own aside from John, her grouchy co-worker, who sees the creatures as nothing more than animals. Anna, of course, befriends all the creatures and struggles with their being locked up.
A friendship/romance develops between Anna and a wolf whom she assumes is a dire wolf, but eventually learns he is a shifter who was taken in Alaska. We witness one of Mathis's events and discover the savage conditions he keeps a vampire in. Of course, Anna tries to assist, all while falling in love with our wolf. When she discovers he is to be traded, Anna knows it is time to act. Can she save these creatures and protect her grandmother? You'll need to read and discover for yourself.
There is a second romance that we learn about, and I hope that is developed in book two. Rory, a secondary character, was a favorite. I am hoping he and Mathis tangoed. I like the idea of just desserts.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. The pacing started slowly as the author fleshed out the world, and while the romance was the situation that pushed Anna to take action, it was served as a side dish to the menagerie. The ending felt a little rushed for me, but I closed the book satisfied and curious about the next book.
If you enjoy paranormal tales and mythological creatures, you'll want to read A Malicious Menagerie. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
The story begins when we meet twenty-two-year-old Anna Carmichael. Anna is working three jobs to support herself and her ailing grandmother. Anna was attending school to become a veterinarian but left when her grandmother became ill. She currently pays for her to live in a facility and is behind on the monthly payment when she gets offered a caretaker position. The job is with exotic animals and comes with fantastic pay and benefits, not to mention a serious NDA.
Welcome to Mars Mathis’s Mystical Menagerie. On the first night on the job, Anna discovers the creatures she'll be taking care of aren’t exotic; they are mythological. We've got every kind of creature, from those of fairytales to a wendigo. All locked up in an exotic (zoo) collection for a wealthy man who likes to show them off to his clients and friends. Mostly, Anna is left on her own aside from John, her grouchy co-worker, who sees the creatures as nothing more than animals. Anna, of course, befriends all the creatures and struggles with their being locked up.
A friendship/romance develops between Anna and a wolf whom she assumes is a dire wolf, but eventually learns he is a shifter who was taken in Alaska. We witness one of Mathis's events and discover the savage conditions he keeps a vampire in. Of course, Anna tries to assist, all while falling in love with our wolf. When she discovers he is to be traded, Anna knows it is time to act. Can she save these creatures and protect her grandmother? You'll need to read and discover for yourself.
There is a second romance that we learn about, and I hope that is developed in book two. Rory, a secondary character, was a favorite. I am hoping he and Mathis tangoed. I like the idea of just desserts.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. The pacing started slowly as the author fleshed out the world, and while the romance was the situation that pushed Anna to take action, it was served as a side dish to the menagerie. The ending felt a little rushed for me, but I closed the book satisfied and curious about the next book.
If you enjoy paranormal tales and mythological creatures, you'll want to read A Malicious Menagerie. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
August 31, 2025
This is so much fun! The premise is already intriguing with mythological creatures hidden away in a private collection, but what really sold me here was how grounded it felt.
Anna is such a great character. I loved her determination to provide for her grandmother and her unwavering kindness. It made her instantly relatable. She’s not some overpowered heroine dropped into a magical world, she’s just a young woman doing her best under impossible circumstances. And Chase is a big softie despite his outward appearance, and I adored him. The romance between these two hit that sweet spot: genuine, tender, heated, and slow enough to feel earned. I love the yearning and the banter! It wasn’t just attraction; it was trust and connection, which made it all the more satisfying.
The menagerie itself was amazing. I loved exploring the variety of mythological "creatures" the author brought to life and the lore threaded into their existence. What I really appreciated, though, is how the book doesn’t shy away from bigger themes. The real monsters here aren’t the mythological beings, it’s the humans exploiting them. That critique of power, wealth, and control added depth to what could’ve just been a fun urban fantasy romance, and it gave the story exactly what it needed.
Overall, A Malicious Menagerie was heartfelt, original, and a joy to read. I’m thrilled that the series will continue with another couple. Josie Ryann is definitely an author I’ll be following closely after this. Highly recommend if you love unique creature lore, a fierce but kind heroine, and a romance that’ll make you swoon.
Thank you so much to the author and booksirens for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Anna is such a great character. I loved her determination to provide for her grandmother and her unwavering kindness. It made her instantly relatable. She’s not some overpowered heroine dropped into a magical world, she’s just a young woman doing her best under impossible circumstances. And Chase is a big softie despite his outward appearance, and I adored him. The romance between these two hit that sweet spot: genuine, tender, heated, and slow enough to feel earned. I love the yearning and the banter! It wasn’t just attraction; it was trust and connection, which made it all the more satisfying.
The menagerie itself was amazing. I loved exploring the variety of mythological "creatures" the author brought to life and the lore threaded into their existence. What I really appreciated, though, is how the book doesn’t shy away from bigger themes. The real monsters here aren’t the mythological beings, it’s the humans exploiting them. That critique of power, wealth, and control added depth to what could’ve just been a fun urban fantasy romance, and it gave the story exactly what it needed.
Overall, A Malicious Menagerie was heartfelt, original, and a joy to read. I’m thrilled that the series will continue with another couple. Josie Ryann is definitely an author I’ll be following closely after this. Highly recommend if you love unique creature lore, a fierce but kind heroine, and a romance that’ll make you swoon.
Thank you so much to the author and booksirens for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
July 27, 2025
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC and giving me the opportunity to read Anna and Chase’s story. All opinions are my own.
This was such a fun ride! The writing is straightforward rather than flowery, which makes the story flow smoothly and feel accessible—even for readers who don’t typically pick up fantasy. It’s easy to digest, yet still engaging. That said, if you're a seasoned fantasy reader, there’s still plenty to enjoy here.
I really loved Anna—her strength, her values, and her determination. Taking care of her grandmother and being the sole provider with no safety net is no small feat. She felt incredibly real and believable. And Chase? He’s just a big sweetheart. Their love story was pure and heartfelt.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and would absolutely recommend it.
Goodreads rating: 4 stars
This was such a fun ride! The writing is straightforward rather than flowery, which makes the story flow smoothly and feel accessible—even for readers who don’t typically pick up fantasy. It’s easy to digest, yet still engaging. That said, if you're a seasoned fantasy reader, there’s still plenty to enjoy here.
I really loved Anna—her strength, her values, and her determination. Taking care of her grandmother and being the sole provider with no safety net is no small feat. She felt incredibly real and believable. And Chase? He’s just a big sweetheart. Their love story was pure and heartfelt.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and would absolutely recommend it.
Goodreads rating: 4 stars
September 5, 2025
You can find this review of A Malicious Menagerie on my blog, Heart's Content!
A big shout out and thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
Just the blurb and cover of A Malicious Menagerie are enough to draw the eye and pique interest, but I also had the chance to read a sneak peak of the first chapter and I was sold.
When I started the book last week, I sunk straight into Ryann’s world. The book is wonderfully immersive from the very first page and the writing is to thank for that. The “seed” of a story is watered and nourished by the writing; ergo, the better the writing, the better the growth from the seed. I would say the seed idea for AMM is honestly quite brilliant! However, it’s the writing that makes it work so well. Even the most believable storylines sometimes fail to land, but there was something so wonderfully magical and real about AMM, making it a fantastic read seated comfortably in the genre of magical realism.
The world building in this book is greatly supported by the genre itself. Learning about a world that’s wholly different is harder than learning about a world that’s rooted in today’s reality. The genre of magical realism has that benefit. The theme for the genre is that a fantastical world exists unbeknownst to the real world and the protagonist usually stumbles upon—and through—the threshold separating the world (metaphorically, of course) and the story is generally about what happens after. AMM is no different, with an additional aid of the readers being fairly familiar with the mythical beings that populate the story. I loved that the author lets her protagonist interact with nearly all of them (woot! woot!), providing her readers with the wonderful experience of a wider range of interactions and budding relationships that only further bolster the plot.
The characters in any book are who we see the world through; the more concrete their personalities, the clearer and realer their world feels. Every genre has its catch, to me this genre (that generally eases the readers into all the other aspects of it) demands an extremely well written protagonist, whose interaction with the world and consequential reactions to it, are what decide in the reader’s mind, how real the magical world feels (ha, the irony). How they react when they’re confronted with magic, how they go from disbelief, shock to slow acceptance and become a part of the world, is what helps the readers transition as well. This is the reason that reviewers often mention that initial reaction and adjustment the protagonist makes; expressing that it was either too much, too little or unbelievable. I would say that in AMM, the author somehow found some kind of a sweet spot between acceptance, disbelief and fear, so much so that I barely noticed the transition. I will also say, given everything the FMC has gone through… her reaction and need to keep pushing forward in life and to keep to her responsibilities were a great motivator to accept the new reality as fast as she did.
Now for the secondary and tertiary characters! To say that I was pleasantly surprised that Ryann managed to somehow both write a book with less than 300 pages (given the demanding weight of the plot) AND somehow give all her characters so much personality and presence was amazing!! However, I will say, I did struggle with the fact that the only Indian character (as far as I can remember) in this book—while she was rich and successful—was a really terrible person.
The plot in this book is well, pretty predictable from a distance. We all know what’s likely going to happen as soon as we read the blurb; but it’s the constant set-up for it from the first page that makes it as believable as it feels when it actually happens. I personally enjoyed a lot of the resolutions the author came up with for the plot knots she wove and could not imagine a better, more smarter way for the characters to achieve their goals! No complaints there! There was actually a surprisingly well thought out storyline that the author chooses to pursue towards the end that impressed me more than I expected!
The pace in this book is honestly wonderfully even! I stepped in, sunk and only surfaced at the end. I’m trying to recall if this was a one-sitting book, but it absolutely can be for most!
There was a certain worrisome thought that can enter the reader’s mind as they experience the book through the eyes of the FMC. I was extremely pleased when the author has her character acknowledge the issue and take a decision linked to it. Thank God for that.
Had it not been for the representation that I struggled with, this book would’ve been an extremely smooth sailing experience for me!
Please check trigger warnings before reading, as always, as there are themes in this book that can be difficult for some.
A big shout out and thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
Just the blurb and cover of A Malicious Menagerie are enough to draw the eye and pique interest, but I also had the chance to read a sneak peak of the first chapter and I was sold.
When I started the book last week, I sunk straight into Ryann’s world. The book is wonderfully immersive from the very first page and the writing is to thank for that. The “seed” of a story is watered and nourished by the writing; ergo, the better the writing, the better the growth from the seed. I would say the seed idea for AMM is honestly quite brilliant! However, it’s the writing that makes it work so well. Even the most believable storylines sometimes fail to land, but there was something so wonderfully magical and real about AMM, making it a fantastic read seated comfortably in the genre of magical realism.
The world building in this book is greatly supported by the genre itself. Learning about a world that’s wholly different is harder than learning about a world that’s rooted in today’s reality. The genre of magical realism has that benefit. The theme for the genre is that a fantastical world exists unbeknownst to the real world and the protagonist usually stumbles upon—and through—the threshold separating the world (metaphorically, of course) and the story is generally about what happens after. AMM is no different, with an additional aid of the readers being fairly familiar with the mythical beings that populate the story. I loved that the author lets her protagonist interact with nearly all of them (woot! woot!), providing her readers with the wonderful experience of a wider range of interactions and budding relationships that only further bolster the plot.
The characters in any book are who we see the world through; the more concrete their personalities, the clearer and realer their world feels. Every genre has its catch, to me this genre (that generally eases the readers into all the other aspects of it) demands an extremely well written protagonist, whose interaction with the world and consequential reactions to it, are what decide in the reader’s mind, how real the magical world feels (ha, the irony). How they react when they’re confronted with magic, how they go from disbelief, shock to slow acceptance and become a part of the world, is what helps the readers transition as well. This is the reason that reviewers often mention that initial reaction and adjustment the protagonist makes; expressing that it was either too much, too little or unbelievable. I would say that in AMM, the author somehow found some kind of a sweet spot between acceptance, disbelief and fear, so much so that I barely noticed the transition. I will also say, given everything the FMC has gone through… her reaction and need to keep pushing forward in life and to keep to her responsibilities were a great motivator to accept the new reality as fast as she did.
Now for the secondary and tertiary characters! To say that I was pleasantly surprised that Ryann managed to somehow both write a book with less than 300 pages (given the demanding weight of the plot) AND somehow give all her characters so much personality and presence was amazing!! However, I will say, I did struggle with the fact that the only Indian character (as far as I can remember) in this book—while she was rich and successful—was a really terrible person.
The plot in this book is well, pretty predictable from a distance. We all know what’s likely going to happen as soon as we read the blurb; but it’s the constant set-up for it from the first page that makes it as believable as it feels when it actually happens. I personally enjoyed a lot of the resolutions the author came up with for the plot knots she wove and could not imagine a better, more smarter way for the characters to achieve their goals! No complaints there! There was actually a surprisingly well thought out storyline that the author chooses to pursue towards the end that impressed me more than I expected!
The pace in this book is honestly wonderfully even! I stepped in, sunk and only surfaced at the end. I’m trying to recall if this was a one-sitting book, but it absolutely can be for most!
There was a certain worrisome thought that can enter the reader’s mind as they experience the book through the eyes of the FMC. I was extremely pleased when the author has her character acknowledge the issue and take a decision linked to it. Thank God for that.
Had it not been for the representation that I struggled with, this book would’ve been an extremely smooth sailing experience for me!
Please check trigger warnings before reading, as always, as there are themes in this book that can be difficult for some.
July 30, 2025
I requested this ARC on BookSirens because the blurb really interested me. I was in the mood for a good paranormal romance. A Malicious Menagerie ended up being decent in my personal opinion.
I had the feeling that the book started out reluctantly. Like the author was getting a feel what it was like to be in this specific world. Luckily it did pick up quite soon after that. I think the book flows naturally after a while, although I did feel a change in pacing by the end of the book. I also think the ending could have been slightly more fleshed out as well, but that's a personal feeling.
I really thought the creatures and cryptids in this story were quite amazing and fun, and had their separate personalities. I especially took a liking to Rory, who was quite fun in my personal opinion. That's also why I definitely want to read the next part, because I want to see where everyone ends up.
I honestly suspected most of the twists, except for the most important one in my opinion, so kudos to the author for throwing me off of that one. I also liked the switch in POV at some point, although it was a bit odd because it was the only chapter in another POV than the ones from Anna.
In the end I had fun with the story and I liked Anna as a main character. I hope to read the next part of this series too!
To conclude I want to thank BookSirens and Josie Ryann for the eARC of this book. As always I place this review out of my own volition and my opinions are my own. I hope this book will find its diehard fans when it releases!
I had the feeling that the book started out reluctantly. Like the author was getting a feel what it was like to be in this specific world. Luckily it did pick up quite soon after that. I think the book flows naturally after a while, although I did feel a change in pacing by the end of the book. I also think the ending could have been slightly more fleshed out as well, but that's a personal feeling.
I really thought the creatures and cryptids in this story were quite amazing and fun, and had their separate personalities. I especially took a liking to Rory, who was quite fun in my personal opinion. That's also why I definitely want to read the next part, because I want to see where everyone ends up.
I honestly suspected most of the twists, except for the most important one in my opinion, so kudos to the author for throwing me off of that one. I also liked the switch in POV at some point, although it was a bit odd because it was the only chapter in another POV than the ones from Anna.
In the end I had fun with the story and I liked Anna as a main character. I hope to read the next part of this series too!
To conclude I want to thank BookSirens and Josie Ryann for the eARC of this book. As always I place this review out of my own volition and my opinions are my own. I hope this book will find its diehard fans when it releases!
September 12, 2025
A Malicious Menagerie is the first book in the Fangs & Fables series by Josie Ryann. It's about Anna who gets offered a dubious job as a caretaker at a rich man's menagerie of exotic animals, which should solve all her money problems. At her first day she finds out that the menagerie holds mystical creatures like mermaids, kelpies and vampires, instead of exotic animals. She struggles with her morals and feels bad for caging such intelligent and humanoid creatures. Everything gets even more complicated and dangerous when Anna falls in love with one of the residents and has to decide if she will risk it all to free them.
A Malicious Menagerie is a great urban fantasy book with a suspenseful storyline, interesting characters and a great writing style. I really liked the descriptions of the mystical creatures and the interactions with them. The love story felt like it developed a little too quickly but is is cute and well written. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and can recommend it to every urban fantasy lover!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A Malicious Menagerie is a great urban fantasy book with a suspenseful storyline, interesting characters and a great writing style. I really liked the descriptions of the mystical creatures and the interactions with them. The love story felt like it developed a little too quickly but is is cute and well written. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and can recommend it to every urban fantasy lover!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
3.5 stars
This was was good for a lot of people I'm sure. For me, I liked it, but I also was super stressed! A lot of tension in this book and I hated the premise.
Depending on other books plots, I might read this author again because they are a good writer. I just didn't like this book because of the stress. And because the characters had sex during very dangerous times and that stresses me out.
This was was good for a lot of people I'm sure. For me, I liked it, but I also was super stressed! A lot of tension in this book and I hated the premise.
Depending on other books plots, I might read this author again because they are a good writer. I just didn't like this book because of the stress. And because the characters had sex during very dangerous times and that stresses me out.
August 28, 2025
・❥・ ❝I've trapped myself in a cage of my own making, with bars of duty, fear, and compassion rather than iron.❞
彡 3.5 stars! ✨
What if every creature you've read about was somehow...real? This is what our protagonist Anna stumbles upon when she accepts a too-good-to-be-true job role whilst in desperate financial need.
I'm so happy to have been able to read this author's debut work! You can certainly see how much effort went into writing this book.
I found the setting original - I personally have not read a similar book before so I was fascinated by the setting the author created. It's interesting because although we are technically indoors, we are in a way 'traveling' from location to location within the menagerie. We are also learning about the creatures our FMC encounters as she is learning about them too. Getting to know everyone - or most of them - as well as learning the backstories of the menagerie's residents was my favourite part of the story. It made me want to read a book about every single one.
Speaking of the precious menagerie residents, a request for a Rory story please, thank you 🤍 Fionn too, he was adorable and hilarious! 🤭
The descriptions were beautiful and made it easy to picture each scene and each character in the book. And this worked quite well with the large cast of characters we encountered here.
I also did appreciate the discussion on the ethics of the menagerie, especially knowing how real similar situations are.
・❥・ ❝You talked to me like I was a person. No one has done that since I was brought here. I didn't want to lose it.❞
The main issue I encountered was the pacing. I think if we had a few more pages, perhaps the pacing issue would've been resolved? Although the pacing started steadily, at some point in the story it felt as if we were moving too fast which was then affecting other elements, such as the main relationship of the book. Some things that were said or that happened I felt did way too fast. I needed more time with the characters, them getting to know each other, before any of those things happened. Moreover, sometimes certains scenes were placed oddly in the middle of the action and it did throw me off a little bit. Similarly, because of the events unfolding unsteadily near the end, the ending felt rushed. However, the ending itself was really sweet!
I believe this is set up to be a series of interconnected stories? Based on the authors' note, I am really excited for the next book and couple - we get a little sneak peak here but it wasn't enough of course! Looking forward to learning more about this world and all its precious characters 🥹.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens and Josie Ryann for this copy 🌤️ All opinions are my own.
彡 3.5 stars! ✨
What if every creature you've read about was somehow...real? This is what our protagonist Anna stumbles upon when she accepts a too-good-to-be-true job role whilst in desperate financial need.
I'm so happy to have been able to read this author's debut work! You can certainly see how much effort went into writing this book.
I found the setting original - I personally have not read a similar book before so I was fascinated by the setting the author created. It's interesting because although we are technically indoors, we are in a way 'traveling' from location to location within the menagerie. We are also learning about the creatures our FMC encounters as she is learning about them too. Getting to know everyone - or most of them - as well as learning the backstories of the menagerie's residents was my favourite part of the story. It made me want to read a book about every single one.
Speaking of the precious menagerie residents, a request for a Rory story please, thank you 🤍 Fionn too, he was adorable and hilarious! 🤭
The descriptions were beautiful and made it easy to picture each scene and each character in the book. And this worked quite well with the large cast of characters we encountered here.
I also did appreciate the discussion on the ethics of the menagerie, especially knowing how real similar situations are.
・❥・ ❝You talked to me like I was a person. No one has done that since I was brought here. I didn't want to lose it.❞
The main issue I encountered was the pacing. I think if we had a few more pages, perhaps the pacing issue would've been resolved? Although the pacing started steadily, at some point in the story it felt as if we were moving too fast which was then affecting other elements, such as the main relationship of the book. Some things that were said or that happened I felt did way too fast. I needed more time with the characters, them getting to know each other, before any of those things happened. Moreover, sometimes certains scenes were placed oddly in the middle of the action and it did throw me off a little bit. Similarly, because of the events unfolding unsteadily near the end, the ending felt rushed. However, the ending itself was really sweet!
I believe this is set up to be a series of interconnected stories? Based on the authors' note, I am really excited for the next book and couple - we get a little sneak peak here but it wasn't enough of course! Looking forward to learning more about this world and all its precious characters 🥹.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens and Josie Ryann for this copy 🌤️ All opinions are my own.
August 2, 2025
If you loved The Shape of Water, this book is for you!!! A Malicious Menagerie is an emotionally charged story that blurs the line between monster and man. It dives deep into the theme that the real beasts aren’t the mythical creatures in cages, but often the humans who abuse their power, status, and wealth to control and harm others.
I cried for vampires, kelpies, werewolves—even the Mothman. The author did a phenomenal job breathing life and heart into these mythological beings, giving them moving backstories and showing that their so-called monstrosity often masked pain, intelligence, and kindness.
Anna’s journey broke me in the best way. She’s placed in a morally difficult position—taking a job she doesn’t believe in, just to care for her grandmother. Her internal conflict was portrayed with such care and honesty, making her growth all the more powerful.
And don’t get me started on the villains. I was constantly punching a pillow, hoping it was John's face. And as for Mathis—the owner of the menagerie? I was actively rooting for the Wendigo to get his hands on that man. Honestly, if I ever found Mathis out here in these streets… it’s on sight. 🤛The rage, heartbreak, and helplessness I felt alongside these characters was intense and unforgettable.
This book is haunting, heartbreaking, and achingly beautiful. A must-read for fans of paranormal romance. 🐺🌙
Thank you to Josie Ryann and BookSirens for the opportunity to read A Malicious Menagerie early!!!❤️❤️❤️
I cried for vampires, kelpies, werewolves—even the Mothman. The author did a phenomenal job breathing life and heart into these mythological beings, giving them moving backstories and showing that their so-called monstrosity often masked pain, intelligence, and kindness.
Anna’s journey broke me in the best way. She’s placed in a morally difficult position—taking a job she doesn’t believe in, just to care for her grandmother. Her internal conflict was portrayed with such care and honesty, making her growth all the more powerful.
And don’t get me started on the villains. I was constantly punching a pillow, hoping it was John's face. And as for Mathis—the owner of the menagerie? I was actively rooting for the Wendigo to get his hands on that man. Honestly, if I ever found Mathis out here in these streets… it’s on sight. 🤛The rage, heartbreak, and helplessness I felt alongside these characters was intense and unforgettable.
This book is haunting, heartbreaking, and achingly beautiful. A must-read for fans of paranormal romance. 🐺🌙
Thank you to Josie Ryann and BookSirens for the opportunity to read A Malicious Menagerie early!!!❤️❤️❤️
August 24, 2025
I had the best time! 5 STARS!!
I cannot WAIT for the next book!!
I’m not one to recap the book’s summary but rather share my thoughts & experience.
I really enjoyed Ryann’s style of writing and pacing of the story. She built the world & developed each character perfectly but did not “overshare” if you know what I mean.
There was never a part of the story that I thought dragged too long.
You will love the FMC, Anna, as she has a kind heart & has had a rough life but make no mistake she is not helpless but “fierce.” And when the MMC, Chase, is revealed you will LOVE him as well!!
So, if you love
* Grumpy/Sunshine
* Paranormal Romance
* Possessive MMC/Touch her & die
* Secret Society
* Mythical Creatures
* Excellent banter
Then you will enjoy “A Malicious Menagerie.” 🎠
*** I received an advance review copy from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
I cannot WAIT for the next book!!
I’m not one to recap the book’s summary but rather share my thoughts & experience.
I really enjoyed Ryann’s style of writing and pacing of the story. She built the world & developed each character perfectly but did not “overshare” if you know what I mean.
There was never a part of the story that I thought dragged too long.
You will love the FMC, Anna, as she has a kind heart & has had a rough life but make no mistake she is not helpless but “fierce.” And when the MMC, Chase, is revealed you will LOVE him as well!!
So, if you love
* Grumpy/Sunshine
* Paranormal Romance
* Possessive MMC/Touch her & die
* Secret Society
* Mythical Creatures
* Excellent banter
Then you will enjoy “A Malicious Menagerie.” 🎠
*** I received an advance review copy from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
August 26, 2025
In a paranormal book world filled with shifters and vampires Josie Ryann remembered that there are more creatures and cryptids to be found.
Some books tell a story and some books take you places. I really liked the idea of the main character working in a menagerie filled with cryptids and myths, I would have totally said yes to working there as well.
The main characters are fun and well fleshed out and there are a few very lovable side characters who'll hopefully see again when the series continues.
The younger me, who was obsessed with creatures is a little sad we don't get to know a lot about most of the creatures who live in the menagerie, and maybe Chase's pack. That would make the book longer, but I personally wouldn't have minded.
I went through this book on a nice summer day, the pacing was good and the story engaging enough to just put it down to get some snacks before diving back in.
Some books tell a story and some books take you places. I really liked the idea of the main character working in a menagerie filled with cryptids and myths, I would have totally said yes to working there as well.
The main characters are fun and well fleshed out and there are a few very lovable side characters who'll hopefully see again when the series continues.
The younger me, who was obsessed with creatures is a little sad we don't get to know a lot about most of the creatures who live in the menagerie, and maybe Chase's pack. That would make the book longer, but I personally wouldn't have minded.
I went through this book on a nice summer day, the pacing was good and the story engaging enough to just put it down to get some snacks before diving back in.
August 21, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
A Malicious Menagerie
Release date 9/1/25
4/5✨
🌶️, 🐺,🩸,🤫,🔫
Thank you, Josie Ryan, for the opportunity to read your ARC!
I had a lot of fun reading “A Malicious Menagerie.”
Anna is a hardworking woman with three jobs to support herself and pay for her grandmother’s retirement home fees. Living paycheck to paycheck and living off of ramen, Anna is offered another job. This new job would change everything in a way never thought imaginable (she would, however, later learn that some cryptids could predict these things). And she would get to work with animals, a dream for her.
Given a salary she could not refuse, Anna starts her job at a wealthy man’s menagerie. Expecting to lend her veterinary skills to rare zoo animals, she’s quickly met with mythological creatures, terrifying cryptids, and internal moral conflict. She would quickly learn that she was in a similar position to the ones in the menagerie.
Imagine if Gus from Breaking Bad had his own personal playground full of this nightmare zoo.
Anna would develop a relationship with the otherworldly beings as she went about her job, especially with a particular wolf, forming a special connection that would set into motion her world flipping upside down.
From stealing blood to risking her life, Anna would do everything in her power to help the inhabitants.
Throw everything you know about legend and lore out the window, because Josie Ryan gives them a whole new twist.
This story has everything: witty kelpies, terrifying sea monsters, wolf love interests, secret organizations, and revenge.
I had so much fun reading this, and it takes so many turns that it kept me hooked until the end.
The addition of having the companion guide with info on the inhabitants of the menagerie was a fantastic touch.
A Malicious Menagerie
Release date 9/1/25
4/5✨
🌶️, 🐺,🩸,🤫,🔫
Thank you, Josie Ryan, for the opportunity to read your ARC!
I had a lot of fun reading “A Malicious Menagerie.”
Anna is a hardworking woman with three jobs to support herself and pay for her grandmother’s retirement home fees. Living paycheck to paycheck and living off of ramen, Anna is offered another job. This new job would change everything in a way never thought imaginable (she would, however, later learn that some cryptids could predict these things). And she would get to work with animals, a dream for her.
Given a salary she could not refuse, Anna starts her job at a wealthy man’s menagerie. Expecting to lend her veterinary skills to rare zoo animals, she’s quickly met with mythological creatures, terrifying cryptids, and internal moral conflict. She would quickly learn that she was in a similar position to the ones in the menagerie.
Imagine if Gus from Breaking Bad had his own personal playground full of this nightmare zoo.
Anna would develop a relationship with the otherworldly beings as she went about her job, especially with a particular wolf, forming a special connection that would set into motion her world flipping upside down.
From stealing blood to risking her life, Anna would do everything in her power to help the inhabitants.
Throw everything you know about legend and lore out the window, because Josie Ryan gives them a whole new twist.
This story has everything: witty kelpies, terrifying sea monsters, wolf love interests, secret organizations, and revenge.
I had so much fun reading this, and it takes so many turns that it kept me hooked until the end.
The addition of having the companion guide with info on the inhabitants of the menagerie was a fantastic touch.
August 1, 2025
This book was a total page-turner. The descriptions were beautiful and captivating, and I was fully immersed in the world. The characters were complex, and their relationships felt very real and natural. By the time I got to the last page, I was reluctant to read it; I didn't want it to be over! I'll be waiting (impatiently!) for the next book.
I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 16, 2026
I was lucky enough to read an ARC and got to explore The Menagerie before most. The vivid descriptions of each environment really drew me in. I loved the character development and can't wait for the next books to learn more about the other characters. If you like strong female leads, swoon-worthy protectors, humor, and feminist themes, this series is a must-read.
August 9, 2025
3⭐
2.5 🌶️
CW:
Blood
Death
Attempted SA
Abuse
I appreciate this book for what it is, and what it is, is a darkly cute paranormal romance.
The beginning does not start strong. The pacing is wacky, the intro to the WMC, Anna, and her motivations are not very strong. I get she is in a tough spot financially, but you have to suspend disbelief that she hasn't utilized the public services that would be available to her. I understand there is a thing such as bandwidth, but this could have been written better and more believably.
Anna goes from plot A to plot B in the blink of an eye. Suddenly, she is working at the Menagerie and is introduced to creatures of myth and folklore.
The introductions to these characters go one of two ways. Anna will either be empathetic to their plight or look at you like the beast you are. The BIG deciding factor in this is whether the creature is a woman. The vampire is female, and her immediate reaction is that she is a horrible creature because she - checks notes - acted like a non-human creature. The wolf behaves similarly, yet she grants him grace because it's a man and she's weirdly attracted to a literal wolf. Not a werewolf, she doesn't know that yet—a literal wolf.
The most significant comparison of this is when she meets the Kelpies—one a man, the other a woman. The man is engaging and flirty, while the woman is closed off and snubs Anna. So we already have it set up that almost all the male creatures are enthralled by her, and she looks down on the female creatures before giving them a chance. It irked me slightly, but I chose to look past it because the writing didn't appear malicious.
The thing I couldn't look past was the budding romantic relationship between Anna and the wolf, while he is a literal wolf. She is unaware that the wolf is a werewolf until 40% into the book. That doesn't stop her from lusting after what she believes is a literal wolf. Honestly, how this is written, unless you have read the synopsis, you wouldn't know he is a werewolf either. It started to get really uncomfortable. The reveal of the werewolf narrative should have been done way earlier. I'm not a prude, but a line needs to be drawn somewhere, and tittering on the edge of bestiality almost pushed me to drop the book.
Thankfully, nothing intimate happened until after the reveal. There is spice in this book; you have been warned. The other thing that happened after that reveal is that the story proper takes off. I enjoyed the story from the 40% mark to the 85% point of the book the most!
Where Ryann excels is in writing her characters when the stakes are high. The narrative kicked into gear, and things started getting super interesting. I loved the heist aspect of the story with Anna, Colby, and Nathan working together to rescue the mythological creatures. Mars is a decently creepy billionaire villain. I think John is a perfect depiction of asshole smarmy. While not always accurate, the lore surrounding the creatures was fun and engaging. The reveal of the Wendigo was legitimately scary, and I appreciated that, considering a good portion of the story had hyped it up.
My favorite creature was the Mothman, Rory. I hope he gets his own book.
Because I love that she is looking to make this world into an anthology series, which will give her ample opportunity to fix the world-building and improve the flow of her stories, which is where they are lacking the most.
The ending could have been way stronger. After really getting into the story, the anticlimactic HEA ending was a letdown for me. I appreciate what the author is trying to do, give this story a proper closing, while enabling the possibility of additional storylines, but I just wanted more. I know this author could have done it better. Instead, the story petered out. Hugely disappointing.
That said, I had a good time, and if you are a fan of this genre, I recommend this.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
2.5 🌶️
CW:
Blood
Death
Attempted SA
Abuse
I appreciate this book for what it is, and what it is, is a darkly cute paranormal romance.
The beginning does not start strong. The pacing is wacky, the intro to the WMC, Anna, and her motivations are not very strong. I get she is in a tough spot financially, but you have to suspend disbelief that she hasn't utilized the public services that would be available to her. I understand there is a thing such as bandwidth, but this could have been written better and more believably.
Anna goes from plot A to plot B in the blink of an eye. Suddenly, she is working at the Menagerie and is introduced to creatures of myth and folklore.
The introductions to these characters go one of two ways. Anna will either be empathetic to their plight or look at you like the beast you are. The BIG deciding factor in this is whether the creature is a woman. The vampire is female, and her immediate reaction is that she is a horrible creature because she - checks notes - acted like a non-human creature. The wolf behaves similarly, yet she grants him grace because it's a man and she's weirdly attracted to a literal wolf. Not a werewolf, she doesn't know that yet—a literal wolf.
The most significant comparison of this is when she meets the Kelpies—one a man, the other a woman. The man is engaging and flirty, while the woman is closed off and snubs Anna. So we already have it set up that almost all the male creatures are enthralled by her, and she looks down on the female creatures before giving them a chance. It irked me slightly, but I chose to look past it because the writing didn't appear malicious.
The thing I couldn't look past was the budding romantic relationship between Anna and the wolf, while he is a literal wolf. She is unaware that the wolf is a werewolf until 40% into the book. That doesn't stop her from lusting after what she believes is a literal wolf. Honestly, how this is written, unless you have read the synopsis, you wouldn't know he is a werewolf either. It started to get really uncomfortable. The reveal of the werewolf narrative should have been done way earlier. I'm not a prude, but a line needs to be drawn somewhere, and tittering on the edge of bestiality almost pushed me to drop the book.
Thankfully, nothing intimate happened until after the reveal. There is spice in this book; you have been warned. The other thing that happened after that reveal is that the story proper takes off. I enjoyed the story from the 40% mark to the 85% point of the book the most!
Where Ryann excels is in writing her characters when the stakes are high. The narrative kicked into gear, and things started getting super interesting. I loved the heist aspect of the story with Anna, Colby, and Nathan working together to rescue the mythological creatures. Mars is a decently creepy billionaire villain. I think John is a perfect depiction of asshole smarmy. While not always accurate, the lore surrounding the creatures was fun and engaging. The reveal of the Wendigo was legitimately scary, and I appreciated that, considering a good portion of the story had hyped it up.
My favorite creature was the Mothman, Rory. I hope he gets his own book.
Because I love that she is looking to make this world into an anthology series, which will give her ample opportunity to fix the world-building and improve the flow of her stories, which is where they are lacking the most.
The ending could have been way stronger. After really getting into the story, the anticlimactic HEA ending was a letdown for me. I appreciate what the author is trying to do, give this story a proper closing, while enabling the possibility of additional storylines, but I just wanted more. I know this author could have done it better. Instead, the story petered out. Hugely disappointing.
That said, I had a good time, and if you are a fan of this genre, I recommend this.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2025
Absolutely spellbinding! Josie Ryann's A Malicious Menagerie is a phenomenal paranormal romance that seized my attention from the very first line and refused to let go. If you're looking for a book packed with unique magic, a tenacious heroine, and a heart-stopping romance, then welcome to your new obsession!
The concept alone grabbed me by the throat: a young woman, Anna Carmichael, down on her luck and desperate to provide for her grandmother, stumbles into a job caring for an eccentric rich man's "exotic" animals, only to discover they're truly mythological. Mars Mathis's Mystical Menagerie isn't just a place; it's a vibrant, dangerous, and utterly captivating world brimming with secrets. Ryann does a masterful job of setting up a truly intriguing premise that promises both wonder and peril.
Anna Carmichael is the kind of heroine you instantly root for. Her struggles are real, her loyalty to her grandmother is unwavering, and watching her moral compass shatter as she befriends the very creatures she's meant to cage makes for incredibly compelling reading. You'll feel every one of her difficult choices and cheer for her strength as she navigates this treacherous new reality.
And then there's Chase, the enigmatic wolf. Oh, Chase! The chemistry between Anna and this powerful, protective, yet tragically trapped shifter is palpable. Their passion ignites in a way that is both irresistible and heartbreakingly forbidden, proving that love truly can blossom in the most unlikely and dangerous of circumstances. Fans of intense, high-stakes romance will be absolutely devoured by their story.
With chilling warnings from her new boss, deadly threats lurking around every corner of the menagerie, and a love bound by iron bars, Anna's journey is a rollercoaster of emotion and suspense. Ryann masterfully weaves a tale of high stakes, moral ambiguity, and the ultimate question of what we are willing to sacrifice for those we love.
For fans of Sarah J. Maas, you'll find yourself right at home with the intricate world-building and the powerful, determined heroine. And Patricia Briggs readers will appreciate the complex supernatural romance and the primal pull between species. A Malicious Menagerie has instantly become a new favorite, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Run, don't walk, to pick this up you won't regret it!
The concept alone grabbed me by the throat: a young woman, Anna Carmichael, down on her luck and desperate to provide for her grandmother, stumbles into a job caring for an eccentric rich man's "exotic" animals, only to discover they're truly mythological. Mars Mathis's Mystical Menagerie isn't just a place; it's a vibrant, dangerous, and utterly captivating world brimming with secrets. Ryann does a masterful job of setting up a truly intriguing premise that promises both wonder and peril.
Anna Carmichael is the kind of heroine you instantly root for. Her struggles are real, her loyalty to her grandmother is unwavering, and watching her moral compass shatter as she befriends the very creatures she's meant to cage makes for incredibly compelling reading. You'll feel every one of her difficult choices and cheer for her strength as she navigates this treacherous new reality.
And then there's Chase, the enigmatic wolf. Oh, Chase! The chemistry between Anna and this powerful, protective, yet tragically trapped shifter is palpable. Their passion ignites in a way that is both irresistible and heartbreakingly forbidden, proving that love truly can blossom in the most unlikely and dangerous of circumstances. Fans of intense, high-stakes romance will be absolutely devoured by their story.
With chilling warnings from her new boss, deadly threats lurking around every corner of the menagerie, and a love bound by iron bars, Anna's journey is a rollercoaster of emotion and suspense. Ryann masterfully weaves a tale of high stakes, moral ambiguity, and the ultimate question of what we are willing to sacrifice for those we love.
For fans of Sarah J. Maas, you'll find yourself right at home with the intricate world-building and the powerful, determined heroine. And Patricia Briggs readers will appreciate the complex supernatural romance and the primal pull between species. A Malicious Menagerie has instantly become a new favorite, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Run, don't walk, to pick this up you won't regret it!
August 2, 2025
To be honest, I was expecting a lot from this book that I found it less interesting than it’s supposed to be. Because from the synopsis itself, you can see that the book has a really interesting concept. What spoiled me is that the plot was there but the sub plot was not polished enough. The characters, despite having an interesting background and past, doesn't reflect much on their character building. It’s like mixing soap and water, but no bubbles form or maybe making oil instead. I wish that with their own past history and all, there should be some kind of influence that affects the characters personality and judgements. But somehow the influence was only a tiny part of the story (for the sake of plot) when I was expecting it to be natural and blend with the characters' persona. The characters portrayed right now just sound pretty cliche and bland. It sounds a bit nitpicking, yeah, because I was expecting a lot of the story!
(Warning: Spoiler!)
And don’t get me started, on the sudden weird cliffhanger and that one chapter dedicated to sex. There's a part where they’re doing it and FMC stopped them because it doesn’t feel right with their current situation and it's also been awhile since she’s doing it. But what makes them feels okay to fuck when they should have been saving the grandma first instead. And she wasn’t feeling any reluctance when the first part happened for her to suddenly want it to stop. She’s the one asking and wanting! And it’s not a sudden situation where they naturally got together after an innocent chat or whatsoever. She asked to be chased. Playing as Red Riding Hood. How is that saying she’s not ready? How I interpreted this whole weird situation is, yeah she’s not ready before, okay sure, but when can they have a sex because it sounds so weird to do it with the present of her grandma right? There must be a sex scene and the only possible time is before rescuing grandma.
Not gonna lie the author knows how to write with the lavish description of the menagerie but plot wise it’s a bit lacking and disappointing. But still I enjoyed it despite having a slower pace in the earlier part (because of the extensive description). It can be better and I am hoping that the final draft will be more polished than the ARC version because this story sure has a lot of potential for it!
(Warning: Spoiler!)
And don’t get me started, on the sudden weird cliffhanger and that one chapter dedicated to sex. There's a part where they’re doing it and FMC stopped them because it doesn’t feel right with their current situation and it's also been awhile since she’s doing it. But what makes them feels okay to fuck when they should have been saving the grandma first instead. And she wasn’t feeling any reluctance when the first part happened for her to suddenly want it to stop. She’s the one asking and wanting! And it’s not a sudden situation where they naturally got together after an innocent chat or whatsoever. She asked to be chased. Playing as Red Riding Hood. How is that saying she’s not ready? How I interpreted this whole weird situation is, yeah she’s not ready before, okay sure, but when can they have a sex because it sounds so weird to do it with the present of her grandma right? There must be a sex scene and the only possible time is before rescuing grandma.
Not gonna lie the author knows how to write with the lavish description of the menagerie but plot wise it’s a bit lacking and disappointing. But still I enjoyed it despite having a slower pace in the earlier part (because of the extensive description). It can be better and I am hoping that the final draft will be more polished than the ARC version because this story sure has a lot of potential for it!
September 10, 2025
I enjoyed this book and definitely had a good time reading it. There's a joyfulness to the writing that speaks to the author's genuine love of magic and romance, and it gives a cute paranormal romance a little extra oomph.
For me, the best thing about this book were the various characters and creatures in the menagerie; their personalities and stories were engaging and I liked the diversity of folklore and the different responses to captivity each individual had. We're clearly well set up for future romances to take place with these characters and I enjoyed meeting all of them.
Apart from that, this was a cute read; nothing ground-breaking in terms of plot or characters but generally well done and engaging. My biggest critique of this book would be that I would have liked to have seen a bit more from everything. A little more world-building, more fleshing out of the characters, particularly the main character Anna. She felt a little every-girl to me, and I think engaging with her and the world around her a bit more would have given this book the depth it needed to take it from a fun read to a great one.
Also, and this is a pet-peeve rather than a substantive critique, but while I enjoyed the spicy scene itself, the timing of it made me want to whack the characters with a rolled up newspaper shouting "now is not the time for nookie!" I think the scene would have made a lot more sense after a certain side character was out of mortal danger rather than before.
Overall, despite some flaws, I found this book entertaining and, as I said at the top, there's a joyfulness and playfulness to the writing that makes me interested in what comes next from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
For me, the best thing about this book were the various characters and creatures in the menagerie; their personalities and stories were engaging and I liked the diversity of folklore and the different responses to captivity each individual had. We're clearly well set up for future romances to take place with these characters and I enjoyed meeting all of them.
Apart from that, this was a cute read; nothing ground-breaking in terms of plot or characters but generally well done and engaging. My biggest critique of this book would be that I would have liked to have seen a bit more from everything. A little more world-building, more fleshing out of the characters, particularly the main character Anna. She felt a little every-girl to me, and I think engaging with her and the world around her a bit more would have given this book the depth it needed to take it from a fun read to a great one.
Also, and this is a pet-peeve rather than a substantive critique, but while I enjoyed the spicy scene itself, the timing of it made me want to whack the characters with a rolled up newspaper shouting "now is not the time for nookie!" I think the scene would have made a lot more sense after a certain side character was out of mortal danger rather than before.
Overall, despite some flaws, I found this book entertaining and, as I said at the top, there's a joyfulness and playfulness to the writing that makes me interested in what comes next from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2025
Gorgeous worldbuilding, intriguing concept — but the plot and character depth left me wanting more
A Malicious Menagerie delivers an imaginative, atmospheric world that pulled me in immediately. Josie Ryann has a real gift for descriptiveness—the visuals, the creatures, the eerie, magical tension of the menagerie itself are all so vivid that you can practically feel the fangs lurking in the shadows. For readers who love lush settings and high-concept paranormal fantasy, this book is absolutely a treat.
That being said, the plot didn’t fully land for me. It felt slightly off-balance, like the story couldn’t quite decide which thread to pull hardest. There were so many interesting ideas, but not all of them had the space to deepen or resolve in a satisfying way.
I also found myself wishing for more character development, especially for Anna. She has a compelling setup—a struggling caretaker juggling responsibility and moral conflict—but her internal growth feels rushed or surface-level at times. Chase, too, had so much potential as the enigmatic wolf shifter, but I wanted more of who he was beyond the romantic beats.
And the spice…
It wasn’t that it was bad—it just felt weirdly placed. Almost abrupt. Like it popped in at the wrong time tonally, disrupting the natural flow of the narrative. It made those scenes feel awkward instead of adding emotional or romantic depth.
Despite these hiccups, the book is still pretty good and absolutely enjoyable for lovers of mythological creatures, morally gray choices, and atmospheric storytelling. The bones of something incredible are here—I just wanted a little more meat on them.
A Malicious Menagerie delivers an imaginative, atmospheric world that pulled me in immediately. Josie Ryann has a real gift for descriptiveness—the visuals, the creatures, the eerie, magical tension of the menagerie itself are all so vivid that you can practically feel the fangs lurking in the shadows. For readers who love lush settings and high-concept paranormal fantasy, this book is absolutely a treat.
That being said, the plot didn’t fully land for me. It felt slightly off-balance, like the story couldn’t quite decide which thread to pull hardest. There were so many interesting ideas, but not all of them had the space to deepen or resolve in a satisfying way.
I also found myself wishing for more character development, especially for Anna. She has a compelling setup—a struggling caretaker juggling responsibility and moral conflict—but her internal growth feels rushed or surface-level at times. Chase, too, had so much potential as the enigmatic wolf shifter, but I wanted more of who he was beyond the romantic beats.
And the spice…
It wasn’t that it was bad—it just felt weirdly placed. Almost abrupt. Like it popped in at the wrong time tonally, disrupting the natural flow of the narrative. It made those scenes feel awkward instead of adding emotional or romantic depth.
Despite these hiccups, the book is still pretty good and absolutely enjoyable for lovers of mythological creatures, morally gray choices, and atmospheric storytelling. The bones of something incredible are here—I just wanted a little more meat on them.
July 25, 2025
What a magical and engrossing story!
This was so different that most of the romantasy books that I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed this new twist on mythical creatures in a romantasy book.
Anna, struggling to make ends meet while affording to pay for her grandmothers care in a retirement home, gets offered a job that she just cannot refuse. The job? Caring for a "zoo" of mythical creatures that she never dreamed were actually real. Along the way, Anna connects with come of these beings and has to work through her moral dilemma of needing the money the job pays, while feeling like she is aiding in jailing them. Also, the smoking hot wolf and kelpie definifinitely keep things interesting and yummy.
I really enjoyed this book. I smiled and laughed and enjoyed the banter between the characters. I felt connected to Anna and most of the beings that she grew connected to. It really made me reflect on the ethics of caging animals and putting them on display, while also getting lost in the story that was being told about Anna, Chase and the Menagerie. This was a well written and thoroughly enjoyable debut novel and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you to Booksirens and Josie Ryann for this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was so different that most of the romantasy books that I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed this new twist on mythical creatures in a romantasy book.
Anna, struggling to make ends meet while affording to pay for her grandmothers care in a retirement home, gets offered a job that she just cannot refuse. The job? Caring for a "zoo" of mythical creatures that she never dreamed were actually real. Along the way, Anna connects with come of these beings and has to work through her moral dilemma of needing the money the job pays, while feeling like she is aiding in jailing them. Also, the smoking hot wolf and kelpie definifinitely keep things interesting and yummy.
I really enjoyed this book. I smiled and laughed and enjoyed the banter between the characters. I felt connected to Anna and most of the beings that she grew connected to. It really made me reflect on the ethics of caging animals and putting them on display, while also getting lost in the story that was being told about Anna, Chase and the Menagerie. This was a well written and thoroughly enjoyable debut novel and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you to Booksirens and Josie Ryann for this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5
☁️ WHAT I LIKE:
• This was such a quick, addictive read!
• The menagerie setting was creepy yet fascinating, and I loved how it blended fabled, mythical, and fantastical creatures all in one.
• Anna completely stole my heart, despite her struggles, she never lost her kindness.
• Her bond with Chase, the resident werewolf, was everything. From the moment she recognized “her wolf,” I was hooked.
• Their romance was pure, heartfelt, and had just the right sprinkle of spice.
💬 Quotes
⚡ What I Didn’t Like:
The wait for Chase to shift dragged a bit… but sooo worth it once he did.
🔮 Tropes
🐺 Fated mates (one-sided at first)
🔒 Forced proximity
💞 Found family vibes
🛡️ Protective MMC
🌸 Heroine with a heart of gold
✨ Paranormal romance
💌 Thanks
Huge thanks to BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for my honest review! I really enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it.
☁️ WHAT I LIKE:
• This was such a quick, addictive read!
• The menagerie setting was creepy yet fascinating, and I loved how it blended fabled, mythical, and fantastical creatures all in one.
• Anna completely stole my heart, despite her struggles, she never lost her kindness.
• Her bond with Chase, the resident werewolf, was everything. From the moment she recognized “her wolf,” I was hooked.
• Their romance was pure, heartfelt, and had just the right sprinkle of spice.
💬 Quotes
"I don't want to be anywhere unless it's with you. I don't want to do anything unless you're by my side doing it. I don't want to be with anyone but you, in any way you'll have me."
"You are my mate, Anna Carmichael."
⚡ What I Didn’t Like:
The wait for Chase to shift dragged a bit… but sooo worth it once he did.
🔮 Tropes
🐺 Fated mates (one-sided at first)
🔒 Forced proximity
💞 Found family vibes
🛡️ Protective MMC
🌸 Heroine with a heart of gold
✨ Paranormal romance
💌 Thanks
Huge thanks to BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for my honest review! I really enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it.
September 6, 2025
This was a great, quick read. The malicious menagerie is truly a collection of the fabled, mythical, and fantastical. Anna is so far down on her luck that she is desperate for a decent paying job and the opportunity to be a caretaker for the menagerie checks the boxes. Anna is a good soul and has stayed that way despite so many challenges in her life. Once accepting (rationalizing) the horrible situation she is now in, she quickly bonds with many of the captives of the menagerie including Chase, the resident werewolf.
Anna knows from the start that "her wolf" is special and while he doesn't shift for a several weeks, she sees the intelligencein his eyes and pours her heart out. Once he shifts to human form, it's game over. Anna knows she must free Chase and many of the other kidnapped creatures to be able to live with herself.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The romance was good (fated mates - one sided) and spice was perfect. There are several great supporting characters, including Nathan, the under cover assistant which hints at a whole world of future novel possibilities.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Anna knows from the start that "her wolf" is special and while he doesn't shift for a several weeks, she sees the intelligencein his eyes and pours her heart out. Once he shifts to human form, it's game over. Anna knows she must free Chase and many of the other kidnapped creatures to be able to live with herself.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The romance was good (fated mates - one sided) and spice was perfect. There are several great supporting characters, including Nathan, the under cover assistant which hints at a whole world of future novel possibilities.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
August 18, 2025
Wow! Such an exciting start to a new series. Very unique and creative with loveable monsters and a courageous main character worth rooting for.
What I loved about Anna is how she's relatable and down on her luck without making it way over the top. She desperate with much to fight for, and much to lose, but she still follows her moral compass and has compassion for the creatures she cares for.
I loved the description of all the monsters seen at the menagerie, their stories. The depiction of Mathis with his greed created such a compelling villain and antagonist, pulling Anna in with a lure of luxury and comforts. The romance between Anna and Chase was so sweet and their chemistry was instantaneous from the moment they met, even up the big, dramatic reveal.
The characters were so fun and had great chemistry together. I especially loved the climax when their plans did not go as they thought, which added more excitement to the plot.
I can't wait for the next book in Fangs & Fables to come out and see what else is cooking with the FABLE organization. Perhaps a book with Delia the vampire and that hot agent Nathan?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I loved about Anna is how she's relatable and down on her luck without making it way over the top. She desperate with much to fight for, and much to lose, but she still follows her moral compass and has compassion for the creatures she cares for.
I loved the description of all the monsters seen at the menagerie, their stories. The depiction of Mathis with his greed created such a compelling villain and antagonist, pulling Anna in with a lure of luxury and comforts. The romance between Anna and Chase was so sweet and their chemistry was instantaneous from the moment they met, even up the big, dramatic reveal.
The characters were so fun and had great chemistry together. I especially loved the climax when their plans did not go as they thought, which added more excitement to the plot.
I can't wait for the next book in Fangs & Fables to come out and see what else is cooking with the FABLE organization. Perhaps a book with Delia the vampire and that hot agent Nathan?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2025
4.75⭐️
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
OMG, I absolutely ATE this book up! I loved every second of it. From the characters, the myths, the legends 😏, the plot, everything! From stumbling upon this arc on BookSirens, I can honestly say I can't wait to get back into this world and see what happens with the other characters! I hope they all get to live the lives they wanted and so truly deserve after the hell they went through.
I will say, that I feel the ending was a little bit rushed. I would have loved to read more about their travels and pack life, but besides that, everything else was incredible and had me hooked! I already started recommending this book to friends!
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
OMG, I absolutely ATE this book up! I loved every second of it. From the characters, the myths, the legends 😏, the plot, everything! From stumbling upon this arc on BookSirens, I can honestly say I can't wait to get back into this world and see what happens with the other characters! I hope they all get to live the lives they wanted and so truly deserve after the hell they went through.
I will say, that I feel the ending was a little bit rushed. I would have loved to read more about their travels and pack life, but besides that, everything else was incredible and had me hooked! I already started recommending this book to friends!
September 4, 2025
I loved this debut book! I stayed up way too late reading because I just couldn’t put it down.
Anna is trying to make enough money to take care of her Nan in the nursing home, but juggling three jobs just isn’t enough. When she’s offered a job taking care of some “exotic” animals, it sounds a bit sketchy, but she just can’t turn it down. What she finds is even worse than she imagined.
I connected with and started rooting for Anna right away and I loved her relationship with Chase. My favorite parts were the descriptions of the menagerie and its inhabitants. All the characters were great - with some fun surprises and twists . I’m really looking forward to the next book, which I think will tell Delia and Nathan's story.
Anna is trying to make enough money to take care of her Nan in the nursing home, but juggling three jobs just isn’t enough. When she’s offered a job taking care of some “exotic” animals, it sounds a bit sketchy, but she just can’t turn it down. What she finds is even worse than she imagined.
I connected with and started rooting for Anna right away and I loved her relationship with Chase. My favorite parts were the descriptions of the menagerie and its inhabitants. All the characters were great - with some fun surprises and twists . I’m really looking forward to the next book, which I think will tell Delia and Nathan's story.
July 8, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow! I absolutely loved this story. It's a contemporary fantasy filled with intrigue and mystery. The narrative is exciting, mysterious, poignant, and romantic. I particularly enjoyed the diverse cast of characters, especially the female main character and the male main character. I was thoroughly engaged with this tale and can't wait to dive into the next book. Even though this is the first book in a series, it stands out as an excellent stand-alone novel as well.
If you appreciate a modern world steeped in mystery, mythology, and romance, I highly recommend reading this book!
Wow! I absolutely loved this story. It's a contemporary fantasy filled with intrigue and mystery. The narrative is exciting, mysterious, poignant, and romantic. I particularly enjoyed the diverse cast of characters, especially the female main character and the male main character. I was thoroughly engaged with this tale and can't wait to dive into the next book. Even though this is the first book in a series, it stands out as an excellent stand-alone novel as well.
If you appreciate a modern world steeped in mystery, mythology, and romance, I highly recommend reading this book!
August 15, 2025
A Malicious Menagerie by Josie Ryann
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was really good! Such an interesting and unique plot, with cool characters and great banter. The idea of a rich man creating his own personal zoo by collecting mythological creatures was so captivating, and I desperately want to learn more about this FABLE organization if Ryann decides to expand on that in future books. I also thought the social commentary on assigning value to life, and lesser value to beings seen as creatures was poignant and feels relevant in a broader sense today. This book releases Sept 1!
Note: I received a free ARC of this book and am writing this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was really good! Such an interesting and unique plot, with cool characters and great banter. The idea of a rich man creating his own personal zoo by collecting mythological creatures was so captivating, and I desperately want to learn more about this FABLE organization if Ryann decides to expand on that in future books. I also thought the social commentary on assigning value to life, and lesser value to beings seen as creatures was poignant and feels relevant in a broader sense today. This book releases Sept 1!
Note: I received a free ARC of this book and am writing this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2025
4.5⭐️
Thanks to the author, publisher and book sirens for the ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this book and the character development and their relationships. The fantastical creaters and their story is well told. It was also nice and easy to read, the author doesnt use unnecessarily flowerly language and keeps the story telling clear.
While the first half of the book was absolutely little slower it picks up quite a but in the second half with action, violence and spicy scenes! I did feel that the end was a little rushed tho and would have loved more information on the events. All in all I definitely recommend this book, if you havent added it to your wishlist, do it now!
Thanks to the author, publisher and book sirens for the ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this book and the character development and their relationships. The fantastical creaters and their story is well told. It was also nice and easy to read, the author doesnt use unnecessarily flowerly language and keeps the story telling clear.
While the first half of the book was absolutely little slower it picks up quite a but in the second half with action, violence and spicy scenes! I did feel that the end was a little rushed tho and would have loved more information on the events. All in all I definitely recommend this book, if you havent added it to your wishlist, do it now!
August 29, 2025
*I received this ARC copy in exchange for my review.*
I will admit to not being drawn to this genre generally, but I’m glad that on occasion the opportunity presents itself for me to travel outside my comfort zone. The book is easy to drop yourself into. The story grabbed me immediately and I found it easy to become immersed. Not being well-versed in the fantasy world, I appreciated the author’s descriptive skill in helping me picture these creatures. The dialogue is smart and the story engaging. I feel like this author is on her way to being one of the fantasy world’s next bestselling greats!
I will admit to not being drawn to this genre generally, but I’m glad that on occasion the opportunity presents itself for me to travel outside my comfort zone. The book is easy to drop yourself into. The story grabbed me immediately and I found it easy to become immersed. Not being well-versed in the fantasy world, I appreciated the author’s descriptive skill in helping me picture these creatures. The dialogue is smart and the story engaging. I feel like this author is on her way to being one of the fantasy world’s next bestselling greats!
July 11, 2025
My very first time with an ARC!! I am leaving this of my own free will and was not compensated in any way.
This book was definitely in my wheelhouse because 1. I’m a sucker for a romance especially with a spicy scene or two. 2. I love cryptids, with Nessie, Sasquatch and the Mothman being my favorites. Who is featured in this story? You’ll have to read to find out.
I loved meeting each and every character and once it found its groove the story kept me on my toes. I can’t wait for book two and book one isn’t even officially out yet. Get your hands and or paws on this book when it drops this fall!
This book was definitely in my wheelhouse because 1. I’m a sucker for a romance especially with a spicy scene or two. 2. I love cryptids, with Nessie, Sasquatch and the Mothman being my favorites. Who is featured in this story? You’ll have to read to find out.
I loved meeting each and every character and once it found its groove the story kept me on my toes. I can’t wait for book two and book one isn’t even officially out yet. Get your hands and or paws on this book when it drops this fall!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews