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The Mer-Mate
I should have died when the storm threw me overboard as a child. Everyone said it was a miracle I survived, but I know better. I never told anyone what I saw beneath the waves that day. Who would believe me? Half the time, I don’t believe myself.
Someone—or something—rescued me.
Ever since then, my life has been a search for answers. I need to prove myself wrong, because being right would be unfathomable.
Now, years later, my expedition goes sideways and I end up back where it all started—underwater, and in the arms of the creature who saved me.
He’s not just real. He’s breathtaking. Powerful. Protective. And the way he looks at me?
Like he wants to claim me.
Someone—or something—rescued me.
Ever since then, my life has been a search for answers. I need to prove myself wrong, because being right would be unfathomable.
Now, years later, my expedition goes sideways and I end up back where it all started—underwater, and in the arms of the creature who saved me.
He’s not just real. He’s breathtaking. Powerful. Protective. And the way he looks at me?
Like he wants to claim me.
50 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2025
20 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
August 28, 2025
“So there are pearls above the water as well.”
This is the sweetest, hottest, little monster short! What a fun 30 minutes. Mermaids meet Ice Planet Barbarians indeed.
Knocked overboard, the fmc quickly finds out that her love for the sea is due to so much more than she thought, because there is so much more down here than anyone would ever believe. Honestly, I'd read this as a full length novel but as an erotica short it does not disappoint either.
Save it for your lunch break when you need something that will put a smile on your face and make you giddy.
"So what if I never eat cheesecake again? I’m lactose intolerant."
Thank you Ellory Douglas for this ARC!
This is the sweetest, hottest, little monster short! What a fun 30 minutes. Mermaids meet Ice Planet Barbarians indeed.
Knocked overboard, the fmc quickly finds out that her love for the sea is due to so much more than she thought, because there is so much more down here than anyone would ever believe. Honestly, I'd read this as a full length novel but as an erotica short it does not disappoint either.
Save it for your lunch break when you need something that will put a smile on your face and make you giddy.
"So what if I never eat cheesecake again? I’m lactose intolerant."
Thank you Ellory Douglas for this ARC!
September 23, 2025
mermaid knotting was in fact just what the doctor ordered
September 23, 2025
4 stars
My TBR notes simply said “merman smut” 😅, but turns out there was a nice little story to go with it too!
A short read at only 50 pages, but I really enjoyed this one.
My TBR notes simply said “merman smut” 😅, but turns out there was a nice little story to go with it too!
A short read at only 50 pages, but I really enjoyed this one.
September 2, 2025
What a neat concept! I loved the underwater universe and the imagery was beautiful. I am a big fan of the size difference here—have you seen that cover? 😍
This was very much on the sensual side for a monster romance, and I am super here for it!
This was very much on the sensual side for a monster romance, and I am super here for it!
January 16, 2026
Umm.. I won this audiobook in a bookstagram giveaway and I don’t think I would have read it otherwise. I never thought I would audibly gasp (or scream but who’s to say) the words “is she fisting a fish?” in my life but here we are. This was educational at best. Take this as you will.
August 24, 2025
***releases 9/22/25!
Summary:
Ever since something saved her life when she fell overboard as a child, Shayle has been searching for proof of what she thinks she saw all those years ago—mer-people. But when she finally learns that they do actually exist, and she has a connection she can’t ignore…what then?
Title: The Mer-Mate
Author: Ellory Douglas
@authorellorydouglas
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Tropes:
Mer-people
Monster Romance
Short Story
Triggers:
Knotting
Near-drowning
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Ellory is one of my auto-read/auto-buy authors and this short story is another fun, sweet, and spicy read. She describes it as “Little Mermaid meets Ice Planet Barbarians” and that is spot on! It is a short story, so be ready for a fast pace! Thank you Ellory for this e-ARC!
Summary:
Ever since something saved her life when she fell overboard as a child, Shayle has been searching for proof of what she thinks she saw all those years ago—mer-people. But when she finally learns that they do actually exist, and she has a connection she can’t ignore…what then?
Title: The Mer-Mate
Author: Ellory Douglas
@authorellorydouglas
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Tropes:
Mer-people
Monster Romance
Short Story
Triggers:
Knotting
Near-drowning
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Ellory is one of my auto-read/auto-buy authors and this short story is another fun, sweet, and spicy read. She describes it as “Little Mermaid meets Ice Planet Barbarians” and that is spot on! It is a short story, so be ready for a fast pace! Thank you Ellory for this e-ARC!
September 26, 2025
This book was short and sweet. The spice was spicing and I loved everything about it. This was my first taste of mermen and boy did it have me wanting to go out and find one of my own 🥵.
September 19, 2025
Tropes & Themes:
* MC’s over 30 y/o
* Woman in STEM
* Reckless FMC
* Protective monster MMC
* Lovable sidekick
* Childhood friends to lovers
* Mates
* Knotting
* HEA
After nearly drowning as a kid, marine biologist Shayle is determined to prove the existence of the magical being below the surface who saved her. While out on her boat one day 30 years later, she falls overboard again. When she awakens Toren’s there, the same merman who saved her before. And he’s been watching over and protecting her all these years, with the help of his lovable dolphin sidekick. Since their first encounter he’s only ever wanted one thing - her.
Once they’re together it doesn’t take long for Shayle and Toren to give in to their chemistry. And for her to choose a life together over the life she knew above the surface, all her hard work was to find him anyways. Her decision to stay with Toren is followed by a long, hot spicy scene, where he claims her as his mate for life. This scene takes up about 1/4 of the story.
The characters are deep and loveable and the world descriptions are detailed. Ellory Douglas even answered half of the age old question - how would mermaids even do it?!
This story was short but I enjoyed every minute of it! Ellory’s descriptive writing style made it easy to picture the characters and settings. The cover art is stunning.
I would love to see this adapted into a longer book one day, to allow for more of their back stories, especially Toren, and more about the underwater world they make their home. If that day does come, I will be one of the first in line for that book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️
* MC’s over 30 y/o
* Woman in STEM
* Reckless FMC
* Protective monster MMC
* Lovable sidekick
* Childhood friends to lovers
* Mates
* Knotting
* HEA
After nearly drowning as a kid, marine biologist Shayle is determined to prove the existence of the magical being below the surface who saved her. While out on her boat one day 30 years later, she falls overboard again. When she awakens Toren’s there, the same merman who saved her before. And he’s been watching over and protecting her all these years, with the help of his lovable dolphin sidekick. Since their first encounter he’s only ever wanted one thing - her.
Once they’re together it doesn’t take long for Shayle and Toren to give in to their chemistry. And for her to choose a life together over the life she knew above the surface, all her hard work was to find him anyways. Her decision to stay with Toren is followed by a long, hot spicy scene, where he claims her as his mate for life. This scene takes up about 1/4 of the story.
The characters are deep and loveable and the world descriptions are detailed. Ellory Douglas even answered half of the age old question - how would mermaids even do it?!
This story was short but I enjoyed every minute of it! Ellory’s descriptive writing style made it easy to picture the characters and settings. The cover art is stunning.
I would love to see this adapted into a longer book one day, to allow for more of their back stories, especially Toren, and more about the underwater world they make their home. If that day does come, I will be one of the first in line for that book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 27, 2025
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Hey guys! I can’t recall who suggested I ARC read The Mer-Mate, but I’m so grateful for the recommendation! With everything going on, reading lengthy novels has been a challenge. This novella is just what I needed, and it’s absolutely adorable!
I love seeing our female FMCs in STEM fields! It makes me feel incredibly proud. Shayle is a marine biologist who’s on a mission to find concrete evidence of a specific marine life.
Toren is the epitome of a protector. He’s also incredibly intelligent and innovative, as evidenced by the little glimpse we get of him.
I adore novellas, but I also hate how some of them are so captivating that all you crave is more from the story. I want MORE! This was so good! This did not feel rushed or holey! By the end of the book, you have all the answers!
Now, let’s talk about the spice. There’s something about pocket peens that really intrigues me. The author’s description of their exploration was simply hot. I haven’t seen anyone explore it like Shayle. She had Toren going crazy!! I must admit, I was left wanting more. 😂
This short monster romance is so cute and Ellory has gained a new reader!
Hey guys! I can’t recall who suggested I ARC read The Mer-Mate, but I’m so grateful for the recommendation! With everything going on, reading lengthy novels has been a challenge. This novella is just what I needed, and it’s absolutely adorable!
I love seeing our female FMCs in STEM fields! It makes me feel incredibly proud. Shayle is a marine biologist who’s on a mission to find concrete evidence of a specific marine life.
Toren is the epitome of a protector. He’s also incredibly intelligent and innovative, as evidenced by the little glimpse we get of him.
I adore novellas, but I also hate how some of them are so captivating that all you crave is more from the story. I want MORE! This was so good! This did not feel rushed or holey! By the end of the book, you have all the answers!
Now, let’s talk about the spice. There’s something about pocket peens that really intrigues me. The author’s description of their exploration was simply hot. I haven’t seen anyone explore it like Shayle. She had Toren going crazy!! I must admit, I was left wanting more. 😂
This short monster romance is so cute and Ellory has gained a new reader!
September 21, 2025
The Mer-Mate was a great, well rounded short story. With drama, suspense, intrigue, love and passion (oh and spice), it packed a punch.
The story follows Shayle as she continues to search for who (or what) saved her life when she was just a little girl. She’s given up everything to devote her life to this research. Will it all be worth it?
Fans of Ruby Dixon and The Little Mermaid will love this book! Honestly recommend this book to anyone!
The story follows Shayle as she continues to search for who (or what) saved her life when she was just a little girl. She’s given up everything to devote her life to this research. Will it all be worth it?
Fans of Ruby Dixon and The Little Mermaid will love this book! Honestly recommend this book to anyone!
September 3, 2025
Oh my goodness!!
This is a shorty that will not disappoint 😉
The FMC is absolutely determined to find what saved her life... And her Mer-Mate is finally ready for her.
The development and lead into the spice is so good.
The descriptions and details of every moment are visually appealing.
I officially need a Mer-Mate!
Highly recommend!!
4.5 ⭐ rounded up!!
This is a shorty that will not disappoint 😉
The FMC is absolutely determined to find what saved her life... And her Mer-Mate is finally ready for her.
The development and lead into the spice is so good.
The descriptions and details of every moment are visually appealing.
I officially need a Mer-Mate!
Highly recommend!!
4.5 ⭐ rounded up!!
December 24, 2025
This was shockingly so good for how short it was! We got character background for our FMC, an obsessed MMC, and a HEA. This was my first book by this author and now I’m very intrigued!!
If you need a short audiobook or ebook, this one is less than an hour long and less than 40 pages! Go read this to help you reach your reading goal!
If you need a short audiobook or ebook, this one is less than an hour long and less than 40 pages! Go read this to help you reach your reading goal!
September 8, 2025
“But the wildest storms bring the most life-changing rides.”
Knocked overboard as a child and saved by a mysterious someone or something, Shayle becomes a marine biologist and devotes her life to finding answers until one day she ends up underwater again with an over protective merman who could be her fated mate?
This was a fun little monster smut novella for anyone who grew up a fan of The Little Mermaid and likes spicy reads now. As a BC girl I always love something set in BC!
So what did Toren do? (Is that ending a nod to Lorcan in Kingdom of Ash?! If you know you know).
Knocked overboard as a child and saved by a mysterious someone or something, Shayle becomes a marine biologist and devotes her life to finding answers until one day she ends up underwater again with an over protective merman who could be her fated mate?
This was a fun little monster smut novella for anyone who grew up a fan of The Little Mermaid and likes spicy reads now. As a BC girl I always love something set in BC!
So what did Toren do? (Is that ending a nod to Lorcan in Kingdom of Ash?! If you know you know).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2025
TEARS AND TEARS AND TEARS. But the good ones because i was crying with LAUGHTER!
This shorty was a goldy. I loved EVERY second of reading this.
Now i just wish to find my prince to take me to Atlantis who will sponge and knot me.
This shorty was a goldy. I loved EVERY second of reading this.
Now i just wish to find my prince to take me to Atlantis who will sponge and knot me.
August 29, 2025
I would 100% read this sweet & spicy novella as a full-length novel!
Shayle had a near-death experience in the water as a kid and swore something saved her. Fast forward a few years, and she’s back in the water… with a little more than seaweed waiting for her. 👀
Meanwhile, if I fell overboard, my luck would run more along the lines of “attacked by a seagull” or “immediately stung by a jellyfish.” No hot mer-man rescue in sight. Clearly, Shayle and I are living very different rom-com realities.
Shayle had a near-death experience in the water as a kid and swore something saved her. Fast forward a few years, and she’s back in the water… with a little more than seaweed waiting for her. 👀
Meanwhile, if I fell overboard, my luck would run more along the lines of “attacked by a seagull” or “immediately stung by a jellyfish.” No hot mer-man rescue in sight. Clearly, Shayle and I are living very different rom-com realities.
October 28, 2025
this is so cute and so fun - i loved it!
August 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was my first Ellory Douglas read and when I saw this book was advertised as ‘The Little Mermaid meets Ice Planet Barbarians’, I knew I HAD to read it
This was everything I wanted out of a novella. We got some backstory into the FMC, and a MMC who followed her throughout life, and obviously we had to throw some spice in. It was a perfect quick read and I loved the whole thing.
Thank you to Ellory Douglas for an advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was my first Ellory Douglas read and when I saw this book was advertised as ‘The Little Mermaid meets Ice Planet Barbarians’, I knew I HAD to read it
This was everything I wanted out of a novella. We got some backstory into the FMC, and a MMC who followed her throughout life, and obviously we had to throw some spice in. It was a perfect quick read and I loved the whole thing.
Thank you to Ellory Douglas for an advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2025
It was a nice short read! I am just starting to get into monster romances so this was the perfect read for that. I liked the descriptions of the world and how the author explained how things work. overall, a nice read!
September 28, 2025
Thank you Ellory Douglas for the ARC!
Trigger or content warning? No.
Near death experiences on page, and in the past as well.
Details?
Shayle is the FMC. Toren is the MMC. I believe they are both in their early forties.
Neither are virgins.
My thoughts?
This was super short and spicy. It is a fated mate story, spanning over a short amount of time on page. Off page, Toren has been keeping an eye on Shayle since he saved her when they were both young.
While I knew it was going to be short, this story focuses solely on the beginning of their relationship and the decision to be mated. I’m a sucker for a peek into a couples future, but there wasn’t one for Shayle and Toren.
Overall it’s easy to read and I finished this really quickly.
Trigger or content warning? No.
Near death experiences on page, and in the past as well.
Details?
Shayle is the FMC. Toren is the MMC. I believe they are both in their early forties.
Neither are virgins.
My thoughts?
This was super short and spicy. It is a fated mate story, spanning over a short amount of time on page. Off page, Toren has been keeping an eye on Shayle since he saved her when they were both young.
While I knew it was going to be short, this story focuses solely on the beginning of their relationship and the decision to be mated. I’m a sucker for a peek into a couples future, but there wasn’t one for Shayle and Toren.
Overall it’s easy to read and I finished this really quickly.
Read
October 6, 2025Mermate
A sweet, hot, little monster short to make you smile and giddy.
We have a marine biogist who is prone to 'miracles' in life threatening scenarios over the years but perhaps a protective grumpy guardian merman and his animal sidekick coming to the aid of a human with a death wish is more aptly true. But miracle is less of a mouthful.
Abit of plot, abit of humor and alot of exploring the most important question... How do merfolk.. You know 🤔😉
During the first chapter, drowning is involved (actually quite scary for FMC) which I think was a little her fault. Not to give her the responsibility of sea and sky however...
Why be in the sea despite storm warnings?
(probably to have a plot to meet the merman but my realist mind is like come on..)
Yet, our FMC is self aware and did recognise the stupidity and just was too focused on her life goal.
'Anyone heading out onto the water in those conditions would have to be insane.'
I've got to give it to her, I do like the determination.
Our fcm internal thoughts are also portrayed in a humorous light which I enjoyed
'I’m not dead, but apparently I just became an aquatic fucking creature'
Here's the little reference to the little mermaid that I found amusing..
'Any second now, Sebastian or Ursula will show up and break into song'
I actually like FMC priorities because I too would be concerned about my missing clothes when alone with a stranger, merman or not.
(Probably would more concerned when its a merman)
When reading I was more focused on why her clothes where gone rather than finding out how she's breathing.
And she waited til after she panicked about breathing under water soo...
Questions about the merman logic are briefly explained before it goes onwards towards the smut which is good for someone like me who wouldn't stop questioning the whys and how's and therefore wouldn't enjoy the rest of the book.
Love a good exploring each other in a monster romance (or in general) professionally-ish til it's not...
Her complimenting him throughout the exploring....🤭
Fuck the figurative language is making me gasp, curse and smile
Both are crazy about each other very quick.
Oh.. He can smell.. Her
Hmm... (looking to the side to my imaginary camera and back) I don't hate it... (although I find it hard to take it seriously)
🐬🧜💙🌶️:
Guardian mermaid
Fated mates
Knotting
Sassy Animal sidekick
Fmc in stem 30+
Non human mmc
A sweet, hot, little monster short to make you smile and giddy.
We have a marine biogist who is prone to 'miracles' in life threatening scenarios over the years but perhaps a protective grumpy guardian merman and his animal sidekick coming to the aid of a human with a death wish is more aptly true. But miracle is less of a mouthful.
Abit of plot, abit of humor and alot of exploring the most important question... How do merfolk.. You know 🤔😉
During the first chapter, drowning is involved (actually quite scary for FMC) which I think was a little her fault. Not to give her the responsibility of sea and sky however...
Why be in the sea despite storm warnings?
(probably to have a plot to meet the merman but my realist mind is like come on..)
Yet, our FMC is self aware and did recognise the stupidity and just was too focused on her life goal.
'Anyone heading out onto the water in those conditions would have to be insane.'
I've got to give it to her, I do like the determination.
Our fcm internal thoughts are also portrayed in a humorous light which I enjoyed
'I’m not dead, but apparently I just became an aquatic fucking creature'
Here's the little reference to the little mermaid that I found amusing..
'Any second now, Sebastian or Ursula will show up and break into song'
I actually like FMC priorities because I too would be concerned about my missing clothes when alone with a stranger, merman or not.
(Probably would more concerned when its a merman)
When reading I was more focused on why her clothes where gone rather than finding out how she's breathing.
And she waited til after she panicked about breathing under water soo...
Questions about the merman logic are briefly explained before it goes onwards towards the smut which is good for someone like me who wouldn't stop questioning the whys and how's and therefore wouldn't enjoy the rest of the book.
Love a good exploring each other in a monster romance (or in general) professionally-ish til it's not...
Her complimenting him throughout the exploring....🤭
Fuck the figurative language is making me gasp, curse and smile
Both are crazy about each other very quick.
Oh.. He can smell.. Her
Hmm... (looking to the side to my imaginary camera and back) I don't hate it... (although I find it hard to take it seriously)
🐬🧜💙🌶️:
Guardian mermaid
Fated mates
Knotting
Sassy Animal sidekick
Fmc in stem 30+
Non human mmc
December 26, 2025
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 (rounded up for rating)
Spice:🌶️🌶️.5/5
Are you looking for a sweet and spicy shortie, with no angst and a merman who’s ready to give his mate his knot and holds himself back until she’s sure about forever?! Then look no further because this was the best way to spend an hour with an immersive read! I enjoyed this audiobook narrated by Jessie Elwyn and highlighted so many fun quotes while following along with the ebook!
🌊Marine Biologist FMC in her 30s
🧜🏽♂️Merman with a 🪢 Knot 🪢
💙Fated Mates
🐬Dolphin Sidekick
Shayle should have lost her life when she was thrown overboard during a storm as a child. It was a miracle to everyone above the waves, but she never told anyone the reason why she’s still alive…no one would believe her anyway.
Ever since then, Shayle has been searching for answers…to prove that the unfathomable was just that – unfathomable.
Years later, when her expedition goes south, she ends up back where it all started – underwater, and in the arms of the creature who saved her. Shayle is drawn to his breathtaking beauty, power, and protective aura. And the way he looks at her? Like he never wants to let her go…would that be so bad?
Listen, if I fall overboard, and I’m not assisted by a merman who’s been watching over me for years to make sure I’m safe, including having his dolphin sidekick keep tabs on me from afar…then I will be sorely disappointed 😂 Toren is a dream, because this merman is ready to explore his mate 👀 and once he finds her pearl ⚪? Game over. I will never leave the ocean. Goodbye, world.
Spice:🌶️🌶️.5/5
Are you looking for a sweet and spicy shortie, with no angst and a merman who’s ready to give his mate his knot and holds himself back until she’s sure about forever?! Then look no further because this was the best way to spend an hour with an immersive read! I enjoyed this audiobook narrated by Jessie Elwyn and highlighted so many fun quotes while following along with the ebook!
🌊Marine Biologist FMC in her 30s
🧜🏽♂️Merman with a 🪢 Knot 🪢
💙Fated Mates
🐬Dolphin Sidekick
Shayle should have lost her life when she was thrown overboard during a storm as a child. It was a miracle to everyone above the waves, but she never told anyone the reason why she’s still alive…no one would believe her anyway.
Ever since then, Shayle has been searching for answers…to prove that the unfathomable was just that – unfathomable.
Years later, when her expedition goes south, she ends up back where it all started – underwater, and in the arms of the creature who saved her. Shayle is drawn to his breathtaking beauty, power, and protective aura. And the way he looks at her? Like he never wants to let her go…would that be so bad?
Listen, if I fall overboard, and I’m not assisted by a merman who’s been watching over me for years to make sure I’m safe, including having his dolphin sidekick keep tabs on me from afar…then I will be sorely disappointed 😂 Toren is a dream, because this merman is ready to explore his mate 👀 and once he finds her pearl ⚪? Game over. I will never leave the ocean. Goodbye, world.
September 18, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
📚 The Mer-Mate by Ellory Douglas
📚 Standalone Monster Romance | 50 Page
📚 Releases September 22, 2025
What to Expect:
💕 30+ fmc in STEM / marine biologist
🧜♂️ Overprotective merman
🫂 Childhood friends-to-lovers?
🪢 Knotting
👩❤️👨 Fated mates
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Ellory for providing me with an advanced copy of The Mer-Mate. As always, my opinions are my own! ☺️
Shayle has spent her entire life searching for the thing that had saved her life as a child. She dedicated everything to her research for some modicum of proof that what she thinks she saw really does exist. Merpeople.
During her latest stint on the ocean to collect data, Shayle gets caught in a sudden and nasty storm. Just like when she was a child, she fell from her boat and was taken down by the depths below. Only this time, her saviour did not take her back up to the world above.. she was taken below and into the sea. And what she found proved everything the believed.
My Thoughts ⬇️⬇️
The Mer-Mate was super short but straight to the point and wasn’t messing around! 🥵 It’s a short story, so be prepared for a very quick pace. I absolutely loved everything about this novella! Ellory managed to put as much detail as they could into the story to make as whimsical, mysterious and moving as possible without overwhelming it. It was really well done for a 50 page book. Definitely going to be an author I keep my eye on for the foreseeable future!
📚 The Mer-Mate by Ellory Douglas
📚 Standalone Monster Romance | 50 Page
📚 Releases September 22, 2025
What to Expect:
💕 30+ fmc in STEM / marine biologist
🧜♂️ Overprotective merman
🫂 Childhood friends-to-lovers?
🪢 Knotting
👩❤️👨 Fated mates
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Ellory for providing me with an advanced copy of The Mer-Mate. As always, my opinions are my own! ☺️
Shayle has spent her entire life searching for the thing that had saved her life as a child. She dedicated everything to her research for some modicum of proof that what she thinks she saw really does exist. Merpeople.
During her latest stint on the ocean to collect data, Shayle gets caught in a sudden and nasty storm. Just like when she was a child, she fell from her boat and was taken down by the depths below. Only this time, her saviour did not take her back up to the world above.. she was taken below and into the sea. And what she found proved everything the believed.
My Thoughts ⬇️⬇️
The Mer-Mate was super short but straight to the point and wasn’t messing around! 🥵 It’s a short story, so be prepared for a very quick pace. I absolutely loved everything about this novella! Ellory managed to put as much detail as they could into the story to make as whimsical, mysterious and moving as possible without overwhelming it. It was really well done for a 50 page book. Definitely going to be an author I keep my eye on for the foreseeable future!
August 31, 2025
First of all, my thanks to the author for the ARC.
This was a pretty fun little read.
I think I would have enjoyed the story more as a small novel. Because with 30-some pages, it felt more like a comedic piece, if you know what I mean? Like the goal is just to have smut, so the plot is just rushing past us (which is fair, honestly. I do enjoy my smutty little books).
I think this can be a good story for someone who wants to try a monster smut, but is not ready for a full novel, or is scared of the monster aspect of smut. Mer-Mate is quite simple and still gives you an example of what is waiting for you if you continue with a genre. Though I did not expect knotting from a merman 👀
But now I really want a full story, with flashbacks to Shayle's childhood, different sea encounters, Toren's POVs, yearning, and smutty moments/dreams. Kind of curious now to check out other books by Ellory.
P.S. I died from 'My Shayle!', needed to take a break to laugh🤣
P.S.S. This is not really about a book or an author, and it did not affect my rating, but the biggest disappointment was seeing the name of the cover artist, googling him, and realizing where he is from. Really contemplated for a moment not adding a book cover to my Insta review.
This was a pretty fun little read.
I think I would have enjoyed the story more as a small novel. Because with 30-some pages, it felt more like a comedic piece, if you know what I mean? Like the goal is just to have smut, so the plot is just rushing past us (which is fair, honestly. I do enjoy my smutty little books).
I think this can be a good story for someone who wants to try a monster smut, but is not ready for a full novel, or is scared of the monster aspect of smut. Mer-Mate is quite simple and still gives you an example of what is waiting for you if you continue with a genre. Though I did not expect knotting from a merman 👀
But now I really want a full story, with flashbacks to Shayle's childhood, different sea encounters, Toren's POVs, yearning, and smutty moments/dreams. Kind of curious now to check out other books by Ellory.
P.S. I died from 'My Shayle!', needed to take a break to laugh🤣
P.S.S. This is not really about a book or an author, and it did not affect my rating, but the biggest disappointment was seeing the name of the cover artist, googling him, and realizing where he is from. Really contemplated for a moment not adding a book cover to my Insta review.
September 4, 2025
“I should have died when the storm threw me overboard as a child…”
From the very first line, this story pulls you into a haunting, emotional, and mysterious journey that blurs the lines between reality and myth. This novel captures the reader with an immediate sense of mystery and emotional depth.
The story follows Shayle, a marine biologist, who narrowly survived a shipwreck as a child, an event long labelled a miracle by others, but one she’s never fully accepted. Beneath the waves that day, something, or someone, saved her, and she’s spent her life quietly searching for answers ever since.
What follows is a beautifully layered exploration of fear, wonder, identity, and connection. The underwater setting is vividly rendered, creating a dreamlike, atmosphere that enhances the story’s tension and intimacy. The emotional stakes are high, and the spicy chemistry between Shayle and her mysterious saviour is both compelling and complex.
Blending elements of speculative fiction, monster romance, and myth, this novel offers a unique and deeply immersive reading experience. It asks bold questions about what we remember, what we believe, and what we’re willing to embrace when the unbelievable becomes real!!!
From the very first line, this story pulls you into a haunting, emotional, and mysterious journey that blurs the lines between reality and myth. This novel captures the reader with an immediate sense of mystery and emotional depth.
The story follows Shayle, a marine biologist, who narrowly survived a shipwreck as a child, an event long labelled a miracle by others, but one she’s never fully accepted. Beneath the waves that day, something, or someone, saved her, and she’s spent her life quietly searching for answers ever since.
What follows is a beautifully layered exploration of fear, wonder, identity, and connection. The underwater setting is vividly rendered, creating a dreamlike, atmosphere that enhances the story’s tension and intimacy. The emotional stakes are high, and the spicy chemistry between Shayle and her mysterious saviour is both compelling and complex.
Blending elements of speculative fiction, monster romance, and myth, this novel offers a unique and deeply immersive reading experience. It asks bold questions about what we remember, what we believe, and what we’re willing to embrace when the unbelievable becomes real!!!
September 17, 2025
Did I just leave my cowboy romance era and enter my mermaid romance era? No, there’s room for both eras, but the cowboys definitely scooched over to make room for the mermen. And Toren gets the best seat with the best view.
This story is a super quick read but also super spicy. My first thought when I finished was that I needed 300 more pages of this. When Shayle is thrown overboard and fighting to save herself from drowning, I was holding my breath as well. I was sucked into the story so deeply that it felt like I was in the water with her.
Also… I never thought the words “Poseidon’s kingdom” would be so sexy. IYKYK.
Do you like monster romances with fated mates, quick pacing, secret protectors, and “it was always you”? Or are you on an Ellory Douglas hangover after you finished A Lucky Shot and you need something to tide you over until book 3 of the A Bluebird Sky series comes out? Are you curious about monster romances but don’t want to commit to a full length book? If the answer to any of those was “yes” then check out The Mer-Mate releasing September 22nd (and yes, it’s on KU).
This story is a super quick read but also super spicy. My first thought when I finished was that I needed 300 more pages of this. When Shayle is thrown overboard and fighting to save herself from drowning, I was holding my breath as well. I was sucked into the story so deeply that it felt like I was in the water with her.
Also… I never thought the words “Poseidon’s kingdom” would be so sexy. IYKYK.
Do you like monster romances with fated mates, quick pacing, secret protectors, and “it was always you”? Or are you on an Ellory Douglas hangover after you finished A Lucky Shot and you need something to tide you over until book 3 of the A Bluebird Sky series comes out? Are you curious about monster romances but don’t want to commit to a full length book? If the answer to any of those was “yes” then check out The Mer-Mate releasing September 22nd (and yes, it’s on KU).
August 29, 2025
Mer-Mate by Ellory Douglas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Mer-Mate is less than 50 pages but who even needs plot when the spice is this good? This short monster romance didn’t waste a single second and honestly, bless it for that. Straight to the point, straight to the steam, no notes.
Mermaids are cute, but mermen? That’s my absolute weakness. Gills, scales, fins… yes please, sign me up. This book gave me exactly what I wanted! Non-stop spice, a little splash of danger, and a whole lot of fun. It’s basically fantasy wish-fulfillment at its finest.
Sure, there wasn’t much room for world-building or deep character arcs, but let’s be real, when you pick up a monster romance this short, you’re not here for an epic saga. You’re here for fins and sin, and this delivered in waves. 🌊🔥
If you love your romances fast, filthy, and full of fins, The Mer-Mate is 100% worth the dive.
Thank you so much Ellory for the ARC of this book, I cannot wait to read more 🧜♂️🌊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Mer-Mate is less than 50 pages but who even needs plot when the spice is this good? This short monster romance didn’t waste a single second and honestly, bless it for that. Straight to the point, straight to the steam, no notes.
Mermaids are cute, but mermen? That’s my absolute weakness. Gills, scales, fins… yes please, sign me up. This book gave me exactly what I wanted! Non-stop spice, a little splash of danger, and a whole lot of fun. It’s basically fantasy wish-fulfillment at its finest.
Sure, there wasn’t much room for world-building or deep character arcs, but let’s be real, when you pick up a monster romance this short, you’re not here for an epic saga. You’re here for fins and sin, and this delivered in waves. 🌊🔥
If you love your romances fast, filthy, and full of fins, The Mer-Mate is 100% worth the dive.
Thank you so much Ellory for the ARC of this book, I cannot wait to read more 🧜♂️🌊
September 13, 2025
5⭐️
I adore Ellory’s work. I eat up everything she writes, and this was no different.
Anyone who knows me, knows I read Ice Planet Barbarians and was sucked into this wild world and all the spice that came with it, so when I read the dedication of this book, I knew I was immediately in. I loved the way the author was able to create a believable, spicy romance tale (see what I did there.. tail… tale.)
While instalove isn’t my thing usually, it works so well here. The author build up an incredible back story that allowed this to be a quick and fun read!
Also, let’s talk about how once again this author had me believing that she works as a marine biologist! She is amazing at brining you into her character’s worlds.
I don’t think there is anything else to say except that is you are craving a quick, spicy story, then The Mer-Mate delivers. Continually obsessed with this author. Next book please!
I adore Ellory’s work. I eat up everything she writes, and this was no different.
Anyone who knows me, knows I read Ice Planet Barbarians and was sucked into this wild world and all the spice that came with it, so when I read the dedication of this book, I knew I was immediately in. I loved the way the author was able to create a believable, spicy romance tale (see what I did there.. tail… tale.)
While instalove isn’t my thing usually, it works so well here. The author build up an incredible back story that allowed this to be a quick and fun read!
Also, let’s talk about how once again this author had me believing that she works as a marine biologist! She is amazing at brining you into her character’s worlds.
I don’t think there is anything else to say except that is you are craving a quick, spicy story, then The Mer-Mate delivers. Continually obsessed with this author. Next book please!
September 7, 2025
Thank you Ellory for this ARC!
I love everything this woman writes but I’m so surprised by how much I enjoyed this short story! It’s my first ever monster romance and it was really good!
Because it’s a short story everything is very fast paced and it left me wanting to know more, I want to know everything he’s going to show her!!!!!!
Our FMC fell into the ocean was she was a child and for 30 years she searched for who — or what — saved her that night. And let me tell you that she finds what she’s looking for and it’s steamy when she does 🥵
There’s a knot guys, a KNOT! First time reading about this and I’m processing still haha I don’t think it will be my last!!
If you like a fast paced, monster/human, steamy story you should definitely read this when it comes out September 22, 2025!!!!!
I love everything this woman writes but I’m so surprised by how much I enjoyed this short story! It’s my first ever monster romance and it was really good!
Because it’s a short story everything is very fast paced and it left me wanting to know more, I want to know everything he’s going to show her!!!!!!
Our FMC fell into the ocean was she was a child and for 30 years she searched for who — or what — saved her that night. And let me tell you that she finds what she’s looking for and it’s steamy when she does 🥵
There’s a knot guys, a KNOT! First time reading about this and I’m processing still haha I don’t think it will be my last!!
If you like a fast paced, monster/human, steamy story you should definitely read this when it comes out September 22, 2025!!!!!
September 14, 2025
I am incredibly picky when it comes to Monster books, especially if they contain spice. I am extremely pleased with The Mer-Mate, from how it's written to the actual content.
From the beginning, I was hooked. I found myself tapping to the next page subconsciously and steaming through it. The world build and character background was amazing, I thought the storyline flowed effortlessly and it made following along with marine life information very easy.
It's comedic, it's gripping and it's tasteful. I very much enjoyed The Mer-Mate and hope this continues into a series!
I was incredibly lucky to receive an e-copy of The Mer-Mate to ARC read, and would 100% recommend you head over to amazon to pre order! Release date September 22nd 2025!
From the beginning, I was hooked. I found myself tapping to the next page subconsciously and steaming through it. The world build and character background was amazing, I thought the storyline flowed effortlessly and it made following along with marine life information very easy.
It's comedic, it's gripping and it's tasteful. I very much enjoyed The Mer-Mate and hope this continues into a series!
I was incredibly lucky to receive an e-copy of The Mer-Mate to ARC read, and would 100% recommend you head over to amazon to pre order! Release date September 22nd 2025!
September 22, 2025
The Mer-Mate by Ellory Douglas review
'But the wildest storms bring the most life-changing rides'
Firstly, I need this as a physical trophy ok my bookshelf, because the art work is just *chefs kiss* perfection!
Well that was a ride!! I knew it was a short but my goodness that packed a punch! Another beautifully written piece by this incredible author. The suspense and almost panic that get turned into want and need so quickly is addictive!
As always, Ellory delivers the spice but I didn't know you could pack that much into a short story.
If you're in need of a pallette cleanser, stuck in a rutt and need a way out or just love a monster romance- this is for you!
Well done on another epic read!!
'But the wildest storms bring the most life-changing rides'
Firstly, I need this as a physical trophy ok my bookshelf, because the art work is just *chefs kiss* perfection!
Well that was a ride!! I knew it was a short but my goodness that packed a punch! Another beautifully written piece by this incredible author. The suspense and almost panic that get turned into want and need so quickly is addictive!
As always, Ellory delivers the spice but I didn't know you could pack that much into a short story.
If you're in need of a pallette cleanser, stuck in a rutt and need a way out or just love a monster romance- this is for you!
Well done on another epic read!!
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