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Love (Literally) Bites
Nothing sucks more than being sent on a work trip with a (probably) murderous vampire when you’re a chaotic shifter whose life is falling apart.
Once called a freak for her inability to shift, Raya Merritt is now transforming at the worst moments. Rabbit ears mid-presentation? Check. Mouse whiskers in the pool? Yep. Cheetah spots while making out? Sure, why not? After a year of increasing turmoil–and with another full moon approaching–Raya is scrambling to make the most of a shifty situation.
Asher Sullivan is perfectly content. He has a quiet home, a blood bank down the street, and a steady income. He goes to work and comes home–no mayhem, no surprises–just the way he designed it.
Until a relentlessly cheerful shifter shows up in his office and upends it all.
When Raya and Asher are accidentally double-booked into the same hotel room, Raya is determined not to let her inner animal run wild and ruin her career. Against his wishes, Asher's fangs ache to taste her, while Raya's shifter side purrs for him and no one else.
Little do they know, more than their jobs are on the line, and they'll need each other to make it through.
Once called a freak for her inability to shift, Raya Merritt is now transforming at the worst moments. Rabbit ears mid-presentation? Check. Mouse whiskers in the pool? Yep. Cheetah spots while making out? Sure, why not? After a year of increasing turmoil–and with another full moon approaching–Raya is scrambling to make the most of a shifty situation.
Asher Sullivan is perfectly content. He has a quiet home, a blood bank down the street, and a steady income. He goes to work and comes home–no mayhem, no surprises–just the way he designed it.
Until a relentlessly cheerful shifter shows up in his office and upends it all.
When Raya and Asher are accidentally double-booked into the same hotel room, Raya is determined not to let her inner animal run wild and ruin her career. Against his wishes, Asher's fangs ache to taste her, while Raya's shifter side purrs for him and no one else.
Little do they know, more than their jobs are on the line, and they'll need each other to make it through.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
12 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Corina Bair
4 books16 followersCorina writes feel-good love stories with tension-building spice, funny and relatable characters, and Happily Ever After's that feel like a hug in book form.
After working at multiple greenhouses through high school and college, and now being a mental health therapist, Corina combines these passions to bring her debut novel to life.
When she's not reading or writing, you can find Corina forcing snuggles on her dog, rollerblading with her husband, playing the piano, or embroidering everything she can get her hands on, including book covers.
After working at multiple greenhouses through high school and college, and now being a mental health therapist, Corina combines these passions to bring her debut novel to life.
When she's not reading or writing, you can find Corina forcing snuggles on her dog, rollerblading with her husband, playing the piano, or embroidering everything she can get her hands on, including book covers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 30, 2025
I will start out by saying that I was given an ARC copy to read and am giving my own opinion.
I absolutely loved reading this book! It had just the right amount of comedy, tension, romance, feel good coziness, and action to make the story amazing. The pacing is just right, allowing for the romantic tension to build up between the FMC and MMC without it being a slow burn or feeling like the relationship is forced between the two characters. On top of all that, there’s no 3rd act breakup, which allows the characters to work out the issues that they face together!
To give a quick summary, this is an urban romantasy/romcom where the FMC is comes from a family of feline shifters and her powers didn’t come until much later. However, Raya (the FMC) has no control over her shifting abilities: she will shift different parts of her body at random times, especially when she has intense emotions. When she starts her new job, she meets the kind stranger who helped her recently; Asher (the MMC). Who just so happens to be her new coworker. Asher is a broody vampire who comes from an ancient line of vampires (who also happen to be terrible people) and all he wants to do is to be left alone with his cat. It just so happens that the universe has other plans when his new coworker happens to be the pretty shifter that he helped recently.
If you like urban fantasy, romcoms, and cozy feel good stories, then you need to read this book!
Thank you so much to Corina Bair and her team for letting me read the book! I loved it and appreciate the opportunity!
I absolutely loved reading this book! It had just the right amount of comedy, tension, romance, feel good coziness, and action to make the story amazing. The pacing is just right, allowing for the romantic tension to build up between the FMC and MMC without it being a slow burn or feeling like the relationship is forced between the two characters. On top of all that, there’s no 3rd act breakup, which allows the characters to work out the issues that they face together!
To give a quick summary, this is an urban romantasy/romcom where the FMC is comes from a family of feline shifters and her powers didn’t come until much later. However, Raya (the FMC) has no control over her shifting abilities: she will shift different parts of her body at random times, especially when she has intense emotions. When she starts her new job, she meets the kind stranger who helped her recently; Asher (the MMC). Who just so happens to be her new coworker. Asher is a broody vampire who comes from an ancient line of vampires (who also happen to be terrible people) and all he wants to do is to be left alone with his cat. It just so happens that the universe has other plans when his new coworker happens to be the pretty shifter that he helped recently.
If you like urban fantasy, romcoms, and cozy feel good stories, then you need to read this book!
Thank you so much to Corina Bair and her team for letting me read the book! I loved it and appreciate the opportunity!
January 25, 2026
4✨
I'll start off by saying that I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this lovely story. Love Literally Bites comes out this Tuesday (that’s literally 2 days away eeee!), and if you haven’t already, you should totally check it out and keep it on your radar. This book was super cute, with the most adorable MCs. Raya is definitely like the ray of sunshine Asher describes her as. She is such a bubbly character who’s always looking for the best in people and just wants to control her shifting. Asher, the broody vampire, is such an unlikely companion, but he can’t help but bask in her glow and want to be in her presence.
These characters really helped each other come out of their shells. Raya gives Asher something he’s longed for his entire life, and in a way, Asher gives the same to Raya. Their relationship was such a feet-kicking experience and made me giggle so many times.
I'll start off by saying that I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this lovely story. Love Literally Bites comes out this Tuesday (that’s literally 2 days away eeee!), and if you haven’t already, you should totally check it out and keep it on your radar. This book was super cute, with the most adorable MCs. Raya is definitely like the ray of sunshine Asher describes her as. She is such a bubbly character who’s always looking for the best in people and just wants to control her shifting. Asher, the broody vampire, is such an unlikely companion, but he can’t help but bask in her glow and want to be in her presence.
These characters really helped each other come out of their shells. Raya gives Asher something he’s longed for his entire life, and in a way, Asher gives the same to Raya. Their relationship was such a feet-kicking experience and made me giggle so many times.
January 9, 2026
4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
This modern standalone romantasy was an absolute delight. A sunshine/grumpy love story between a shifter and a vampire, it reads more like a contemporary romance than the heavier, historical tone many fantasy books lean into—and I loved that about it.
If you’re between series, this is the perfect palate cleanser. It’s fun, feel-good read with some excellent spice. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author.
Love (Literally) Bites releases January 27—don’t miss it! 🧛♀️🐱💕
This modern standalone romantasy was an absolute delight. A sunshine/grumpy love story between a shifter and a vampire, it reads more like a contemporary romance than the heavier, historical tone many fantasy books lean into—and I loved that about it.
If you’re between series, this is the perfect palate cleanser. It’s fun, feel-good read with some excellent spice. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author.
Love (Literally) Bites releases January 27—don’t miss it! 🧛♀️🐱💕
February 3, 2026
Raya was such a relatable character for me. And the gentleness and firmness of Asher had me obsessed with him as a book boyfriend! I don’t usually read a lot of monster romance but will definitely be reading more by this author. I felt like the characters were well developed.
I also loved the use of pronouns for certain characters in the book. I can tell the author was very mindful with their use of pronouns and love seeing the thoughtfulness 💕
I also loved the use of pronouns for certain characters in the book. I can tell the author was very mindful with their use of pronouns and love seeing the thoughtfulness 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
I LOVE THIS COZY SWEET BOOK and all the mayhem that takes place 💕 also Asher and Raya 😭✨ my sweet angel babies
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC and was able to read it prior to the release date.
This book follows Raya, happily referred to as "Raya Sunshine" by the MMC (super cute). Raya is an animal shifter who has difficulty controlling her shifting abilities during times of stress or high emotion, creating some unforeseen versatility into her life. She meets Asher, a broody vampire, who she has instant chemistry with through her workplace and the story unfolds.
This book was a cozy, heartfelt, quirky, fun read! I adore the trope of grumpy sunshine and this book happily fulfilled the category effortlessly, right down to the core of the characters. I also love that this is a "he falls first and HARD" trope, as Asher truly was the definition of this trope and really showed Raya the appreciation she deserves. There was great chemistry between characters and I really enjoyed the romantic suspense while the trajectory of the relationship moved upwards. the one bed trope was a cherry on top of the trope pyramid that just blended the other concepts perfectly.
the side characters were also well written and incredibly likeable, I enjoyed Reverie's side story and lived her character. zuri was also a really great contrasting character to Asher, a great representation of how things could have been so different for him in his upbringing. this was a smart move overall and really helped supplement the faulty parenting that Asher experienced growing up.
I overall really enjoyed the storyline and the characters as a hole, the only concept that fell slightly flat for me overall was the climax of the book with Asher's lineage and the core plot points with the business. I wanted a little more exploration of this, but I appreciated the take down of them overall.
I highly recommend reading this story as it is truly a fun read with great inclusivity, quirkiness, romance, and overall unique perspectives of done before concepts.
This book follows Raya, happily referred to as "Raya Sunshine" by the MMC (super cute). Raya is an animal shifter who has difficulty controlling her shifting abilities during times of stress or high emotion, creating some unforeseen versatility into her life. She meets Asher, a broody vampire, who she has instant chemistry with through her workplace and the story unfolds.
This book was a cozy, heartfelt, quirky, fun read! I adore the trope of grumpy sunshine and this book happily fulfilled the category effortlessly, right down to the core of the characters. I also love that this is a "he falls first and HARD" trope, as Asher truly was the definition of this trope and really showed Raya the appreciation she deserves. There was great chemistry between characters and I really enjoyed the romantic suspense while the trajectory of the relationship moved upwards. the one bed trope was a cherry on top of the trope pyramid that just blended the other concepts perfectly.
the side characters were also well written and incredibly likeable, I enjoyed Reverie's side story and lived her character. zuri was also a really great contrasting character to Asher, a great representation of how things could have been so different for him in his upbringing. this was a smart move overall and really helped supplement the faulty parenting that Asher experienced growing up.
I overall really enjoyed the storyline and the characters as a hole, the only concept that fell slightly flat for me overall was the climax of the book with Asher's lineage and the core plot points with the business. I wanted a little more exploration of this, but I appreciated the take down of them overall.
I highly recommend reading this story as it is truly a fun read with great inclusivity, quirkiness, romance, and overall unique perspectives of done before concepts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2026
I was gifted an early ebook of Love (Literally) Bites, form the Author. This Is my own and honest Review.
Title: Love (Literally) Bites
Chaotic Paranormals #1
Author: Corina Bair
Standalone, Contemporary Paranormal Adult Romance
Release Date : January 27th 2026.
🥥🍓 What To Expect 🍓🥥
~ Told in Dual POV ~ Broody Vampire,
~ Sunshine Shifter, ~ Antagonists to lovers ~ Oops, only one bed! ~ Banter in the workplace ~ No third act breakup ~ He falls first (and harder)
~ They’re feral for each other (literally tho) ~ Hurt/comfort
~Spice
The read contains protectiveness, strong support system, family dynamics, and explores identity.
My Personal Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
My Personal Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️ .25
🥥🍓MY THOUGHTS 🍓 🥥
How to start my review.
“He’s dangerous, you absolute heathen. Get your head in the game.”
Well, let me say though I am not a contemporary kind of reader myself this was an enjoyable read, and i think you should give it ago. If you’re a contemporary reader that is or want to start reading the genre…. this will be a good star for you.
“She turns me inside out and her mere presence makes me act like a complete idiot.”
Has humor, Significant paranormal elements, I mean there is A Vampire, love me a vampire.
Also A Shifter, that struggles to shift and let’s say that’s interesting at times…… I mean , awkward moments with a fluffy tail! What could go wrong 😉!
let me add Reverie, what a fave……. I Loved this character, and definitely need more of her in my life., so I guess you will have to Read it and find out more.
✋✋✋✋✋WAIT ✋✋✋✋
✋✋✋✋✋WAIT ✋✋✋✋
✋✋✋✋✋WAIT ✋✋✋✋
🫸OK NOW WAIT PLEASE BEFORE YOU GO🫷
Did I mention at all that there is a work trip and only one bed?
“Just wait until we don’t have an audience, little shifter. You’re playing with fire,” I whisper in her ear. She whispers back, “No, love, I’m playing with a vampire.”
February 8, 2026
Love (Literally) Bites is a sweet, heartwarming, funny, dramatic, and spicy paranormal romance. This book is so good that I wonder why some literary agent hasn't discovered author Corina Bair and get her a book deal with a major publishing house. She's a very talented author.
The story centers around Raya, a sweet and beautiful shapeshifter, who is also gregarious and loving. She loses her job at a Portland consulting firm for accidentally shifting into animal form during an important client meeting. With the support of her roommates and best friends, the female vampire Zuri, and Reverie, an adorable sprite, Raya recovers her self-confidence and gets another job with a consulting firm.
When Raya starts her new job, her gregarious nature immediately wins over her co-workers, except one, the handsome and brooding young vampire, Asher. Raya is smitten with him and gradually penetrates his emotional defenses. Then on a business trip together to San Diego, they end up finding out that they have to share a room for a week. The chemistry between them is strong and nature takes its course. By the time they return to Portland, Raya and Asher fall in love. And from this point on, please read this book to find out how things go for this couple.
I admired how the author presented a nice blend of reality and fantasy that helped keep the MC's romance at the forefront of the story, while allowing their special powers to emerge. There are also action scenes that are presented with appropriate intensity. As for the spicy scenes, which are some of the best I've ever read, they celebrate the love between Raya and Asher, rather than devolve into debauchery.
Being on KU, I read lots of books. So far, for 2026, Love (Literally) Bites is the best one I've read.
The story centers around Raya, a sweet and beautiful shapeshifter, who is also gregarious and loving. She loses her job at a Portland consulting firm for accidentally shifting into animal form during an important client meeting. With the support of her roommates and best friends, the female vampire Zuri, and Reverie, an adorable sprite, Raya recovers her self-confidence and gets another job with a consulting firm.
When Raya starts her new job, her gregarious nature immediately wins over her co-workers, except one, the handsome and brooding young vampire, Asher. Raya is smitten with him and gradually penetrates his emotional defenses. Then on a business trip together to San Diego, they end up finding out that they have to share a room for a week. The chemistry between them is strong and nature takes its course. By the time they return to Portland, Raya and Asher fall in love. And from this point on, please read this book to find out how things go for this couple.
I admired how the author presented a nice blend of reality and fantasy that helped keep the MC's romance at the forefront of the story, while allowing their special powers to emerge. There are also action scenes that are presented with appropriate intensity. As for the spicy scenes, which are some of the best I've ever read, they celebrate the love between Raya and Asher, rather than devolve into debauchery.
Being on KU, I read lots of books. So far, for 2026, Love (Literally) Bites is the best one I've read.
January 27, 2026
𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘪𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘳, 𝘥𝘦𝘪𝘯 𝘒ö𝘳𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘳ü𝘤𝘬𝘵 𝘢𝘶𝘧 „𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯“… 𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘪𝘣𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘪 63 % 𝘩ä𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘯.
Genau so startet Rayas Chaos – und ich habe jede
einzelne Seite geliebt.
Raya ist ein Shifter.
Aber nicht irgendeiner. Sie ist ein Spätzünder, verwandelt sich 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻, bleibt 𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗻 – und kann sich als Einzige nur teilweise und dann auch noch in 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗲 𝗧𝗶𝗲𝗿𝗲 verwandeln. Ergebnis? 👉 Job weg. Leben im Umbruch. Willkommen im RomCom-Chaos. 🐾
Neuer Job, neuer Anfang …
… und dann kommt da 𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿.
Sexy. Vampir. Dangerous vibes – aber bitte mit Herz. 🖤
Er stammt aus einer alten, mächtigen und brutalen Vampirfamilie, von der er sich bewusst losgesagt hat. Spoiler: Seine Familie findet das gar nicht gut.
Was mich komplett abgeholt hat:
🔥 die flirty Atmosphäre
🔥 die Freundschaften und der elfische Sidekick
🔥 he falls first and harder
🔥 no third act breakup ( erfrischend)
🔥 dieser Satz, der alles sagt:
„Her safety is my top priority, followed closely by her happiness.“
Asher ist für mich ein absolute Greenflag Vampir 🟢🧛♂️
Einer, der nicht über Leichen geht. Der sich gegen alte, grausame Werte stellt. Und der liebt, 𝗼𝗵𝗻𝗲 𝘇𝘂 𝗸𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻.
LOVE literally bites ist eine contemporary paranormale RomCom, die leicht, witzig, spicy und gleichzeitig emotional ist – mit Chaos-Heldin, Beschützer-Vampir und ganz viel Herz. 💘
👉 Wenn du Lust auf Shifter-Chaos, Vampir-Charme und Dialoge mit Suchtfaktor hast: Dieses Buch beißt – aber auf die gute Art.
Genau so startet Rayas Chaos – und ich habe jede
einzelne Seite geliebt.
Raya ist ein Shifter.
Aber nicht irgendeiner. Sie ist ein Spätzünder, verwandelt sich 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻, bleibt 𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗻 – und kann sich als Einzige nur teilweise und dann auch noch in 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗲 𝗧𝗶𝗲𝗿𝗲 verwandeln. Ergebnis? 👉 Job weg. Leben im Umbruch. Willkommen im RomCom-Chaos. 🐾
Neuer Job, neuer Anfang …
… und dann kommt da 𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿.
Sexy. Vampir. Dangerous vibes – aber bitte mit Herz. 🖤
Er stammt aus einer alten, mächtigen und brutalen Vampirfamilie, von der er sich bewusst losgesagt hat. Spoiler: Seine Familie findet das gar nicht gut.
Was mich komplett abgeholt hat:
🔥 die flirty Atmosphäre
🔥 die Freundschaften und der elfische Sidekick
🔥 he falls first and harder
🔥 no third act breakup ( erfrischend)
🔥 dieser Satz, der alles sagt:
„Her safety is my top priority, followed closely by her happiness.“
Asher ist für mich ein absolute Greenflag Vampir 🟢🧛♂️
Einer, der nicht über Leichen geht. Der sich gegen alte, grausame Werte stellt. Und der liebt, 𝗼𝗵𝗻𝗲 𝘇𝘂 𝗸𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻.
LOVE literally bites ist eine contemporary paranormale RomCom, die leicht, witzig, spicy und gleichzeitig emotional ist – mit Chaos-Heldin, Beschützer-Vampir und ganz viel Herz. 💘
👉 Wenn du Lust auf Shifter-Chaos, Vampir-Charme und Dialoge mit Suchtfaktor hast: Dieses Buch beißt – aber auf die gute Art.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Corina Bair for an eARC!
This was a cute paranormal romance that also dealt with some heavier topics. I do wish the author would have expanded on some of those heavier things though. Like why Raya can shift into any animal and how that differs from other shifters. I liked how Asher helped her learn how to control her shift, but again, I wish we had seen more of that. Towards the end of the book, it's not talked about as much and I would have liked to see that develop on the page. One of the things I really liked about the book was all the little ways Asher showed his love for Raya. From learning how to cook to buying plants for his home and then how he comforts her toward the end after the big conflict (I don't want to say too much to spoil it, but you'll know it when you read it!). He showed up for her from the moment he realized he was falling for her. I also really loved the support Raya had around her - from her family to her friends.
I believe this is going to be part of a series, so I hope we learn more about some of the things I felt like we didn't get enough of (Raya's shifting into different animals, Reverie's storyline). But overall this was a cute, fun paranormal romance with steam, comedy, and learning to love yourself.
This was a cute paranormal romance that also dealt with some heavier topics. I do wish the author would have expanded on some of those heavier things though. Like why Raya can shift into any animal and how that differs from other shifters. I liked how Asher helped her learn how to control her shift, but again, I wish we had seen more of that. Towards the end of the book, it's not talked about as much and I would have liked to see that develop on the page. One of the things I really liked about the book was all the little ways Asher showed his love for Raya. From learning how to cook to buying plants for his home and then how he comforts her toward the end after the big conflict (I don't want to say too much to spoil it, but you'll know it when you read it!). He showed up for her from the moment he realized he was falling for her. I also really loved the support Raya had around her - from her family to her friends.
I believe this is going to be part of a series, so I hope we learn more about some of the things I felt like we didn't get enough of (Raya's shifting into different animals, Reverie's storyline). But overall this was a cute, fun paranormal romance with steam, comedy, and learning to love yourself.
January 23, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
“My mystery rescuer turned workplace scorner has now turned out to also be a notoriously terrible vampire with untold wealth and power behind his name. No biggie, could be worse.”
✨ Paranormal contemporary romance
✨ Shifter × vampire
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Grumpy × sunshine
✨ He falls first
✨ Dual POV
Raya’s life is spiralling in the most chaotic way possible. She was fired for not controlling her shifting, accidentally sprouting animal features at the worst moments, and barely keeping it together. Enter Asher: broody vampire, and the man from her meet-cute who helped her on the day she got fired.
“I’m glad they didn’t succeed in making me the monster of their dreams.”
When Raya lands a job at Asher’s company, they’re forced into close quarters - professionally and personally - culminating in a work trip with one hotel room and one bed. The forced proximity hits just right, balancing comedy, romance, and tension without tipping into angst overload.
“I’ve become addicted to everything about her, from her strange little shifts, to her kindness and warmth.”
The dual POV really shines here. Watching Asher fall first, deeply, completely, is pure delight. He helps Raya understand her powers, supports her without trying to control her, and yes… he washes her hair. We love a competent, emotionally available vampire.
“You’re like the sun; as soon as you enter a room, it brightens. When you speak, people listen, and you offer genuine warmth and kindness to literally everyone.”
With a secret sprite best friend, a family of feline shifters, surprise vampire family drama, this is a soft-but-spicy romcom. Light, funny, romantic, and genuinely comforting. This is a book that knows exactly what it wants to be and executes it well.
Thank you to the Corina Bair for the ARC ✨
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
“My mystery rescuer turned workplace scorner has now turned out to also be a notoriously terrible vampire with untold wealth and power behind his name. No biggie, could be worse.”
✨ Paranormal contemporary romance
✨ Shifter × vampire
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Grumpy × sunshine
✨ He falls first
✨ Dual POV
Raya’s life is spiralling in the most chaotic way possible. She was fired for not controlling her shifting, accidentally sprouting animal features at the worst moments, and barely keeping it together. Enter Asher: broody vampire, and the man from her meet-cute who helped her on the day she got fired.
“I’m glad they didn’t succeed in making me the monster of their dreams.”
When Raya lands a job at Asher’s company, they’re forced into close quarters - professionally and personally - culminating in a work trip with one hotel room and one bed. The forced proximity hits just right, balancing comedy, romance, and tension without tipping into angst overload.
“I’ve become addicted to everything about her, from her strange little shifts, to her kindness and warmth.”
The dual POV really shines here. Watching Asher fall first, deeply, completely, is pure delight. He helps Raya understand her powers, supports her without trying to control her, and yes… he washes her hair. We love a competent, emotionally available vampire.
“You’re like the sun; as soon as you enter a room, it brightens. When you speak, people listen, and you offer genuine warmth and kindness to literally everyone.”
With a secret sprite best friend, a family of feline shifters, surprise vampire family drama, this is a soft-but-spicy romcom. Light, funny, romantic, and genuinely comforting. This is a book that knows exactly what it wants to be and executes it well.
Thank you to the Corina Bair for the ARC ✨
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to get an advanced read of this one. Recently, I’ve been head down into some intense fantasy reads and this was a really nice palate cleanser. I loved Raya and her sunny disposition! She was literally a breath of fresh air. I’m not a huge romcom fan, but this one actually did make me giggle several times with the chaotic shifting. Asher’s nickname of “sunshine” for her was so cute and heartwarming. I enjoyed their relationship a lot and I loved the growth that Asher helped her achieve as she learned to deal with her shifting. If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy paranormal romance, this is your ticket to a good read! The only complaint I have was that I would have liked more creatures to be present throughout the story. It seemed like everyone else was human besides those directly involved with Raya and Asher. But all in all I really enjoyed it and will definitely recommend it to others! Also, I would love to have another book revolving around Reverie. She was just too cute and so energetic and I would be so happy to learn more about her story.
January 27, 2026
Free e-ARC received. (4.5 stars rounded up)
Contemporary, Paranormal Romance, Dual POV
Emotional intimacy and trust builds first
Vampire romance without a large age-gap or physical power imbalance
Love Literally Bits has low stakes escapism grounded in themes of trust and belonging. Our female main character Raya is a shifter struggling to finding her own identity as a late bloomer without control of her powers. She has a strong support system of family and friends. Our male main character Asher is a vampire estranged from his powerful and abusive family. He’s a trauma survivor who found his own path but lives an isolated life before Raya. They grow together, starting with a foundation of emotional intimacy. I’ve always been drawn to paranormal characters as an allegory for disability.
Raya’s experiences navigating the workplace felt so familiar to me as a person with chronic illness and disability. I loved how in this fantasy world she is easily able to access work-from-home accommodations.
Contemporary, Paranormal Romance, Dual POV
Emotional intimacy and trust builds first
Vampire romance without a large age-gap or physical power imbalance
Love Literally Bits has low stakes escapism grounded in themes of trust and belonging. Our female main character Raya is a shifter struggling to finding her own identity as a late bloomer without control of her powers. She has a strong support system of family and friends. Our male main character Asher is a vampire estranged from his powerful and abusive family. He’s a trauma survivor who found his own path but lives an isolated life before Raya. They grow together, starting with a foundation of emotional intimacy. I’ve always been drawn to paranormal characters as an allegory for disability.
Raya’s experiences navigating the workplace felt so familiar to me as a person with chronic illness and disability. I loved how in this fantasy world she is easily able to access work-from-home accommodations.
January 28, 2026
Love (literally) bites is OFFICIALLY OUT! (As of yesterday! I’m only a day late 🤪🤧)
•
Murderous vampire 🧛🏽♀️ ✔️
Chaotic shifter 🤪✔️
Rays definitely transforms at the worst moments (work meeting? Cue transformation 😬)
Asher has everything. Nice and quiet home, a blood bank with allllll the blood 🩸 and more he could ask for. Well, whenever Raya shows up…it pretty much ends Asher’s “quiet and happy life”.
When Raya and Asher are accidentally double-booked into the same hotel room, Raya is determined not to let her inner animal run wild and ruin her career.
•
“I pretend it’s simply because I need the exercise, and not that it has anything to do with outrunning thoughts of a dazzlingly gorgeous shifter.” 🤤
•
‘“I swear it. I don’t have anything sacred to swear by, so I swear it on you, Raya. My sunshine, I promise I won’t disclose your secrets to anyone.”’ -Asher😍
•
Huge thanks to the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
All opinions are my own and my review reflects as such!
•
Murderous vampire 🧛🏽♀️ ✔️
Chaotic shifter 🤪✔️
Rays definitely transforms at the worst moments (work meeting? Cue transformation 😬)
Asher has everything. Nice and quiet home, a blood bank with allllll the blood 🩸 and more he could ask for. Well, whenever Raya shows up…it pretty much ends Asher’s “quiet and happy life”.
When Raya and Asher are accidentally double-booked into the same hotel room, Raya is determined not to let her inner animal run wild and ruin her career.
•
“I pretend it’s simply because I need the exercise, and not that it has anything to do with outrunning thoughts of a dazzlingly gorgeous shifter.” 🤤
•
‘“I swear it. I don’t have anything sacred to swear by, so I swear it on you, Raya. My sunshine, I promise I won’t disclose your secrets to anyone.”’ -Asher😍
•
Huge thanks to the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
All opinions are my own and my review reflects as such!
January 30, 2026
Love (Literally) Bites is the first book in the Chaotic Paranormals series, and it is chaotic! And cute, I love the magic system in this universe, and the characters are so adorable!
🐰 Raya (FMC) is from a family of shifters - each family member shifts into a different animal, but what is Raya’s shifter form?? 🤔 Not a spoiler (because it’s in the blurb!) but we see rabbit years, mouse whiskers and cheetah spots at the most inopportune times…
🧛🏻♂️ Meanwhile, Asher (MMC) has been distancing himself from his conservative vampire family. There is prejudice and plenty of scepticism to start - is Asher a good guy or is he pretending not to be evil like the rest of his fam? Why is he working as a tech consultant if his fam is supposedly rich?? There’s intrigue, workplace shenanigans, and a showdown with Ash’s fam…
🧚🏼♀️ Meanwhile, we get to meet Raya’s roomies, Zuri (vampire from a progressive family) and Reverie, a cute little sprite. Will book two focus on either of them? They’re both such great characters! Excited to read more from this series! Thank you for the eARC of this book!
🐰 Raya (FMC) is from a family of shifters - each family member shifts into a different animal, but what is Raya’s shifter form?? 🤔 Not a spoiler (because it’s in the blurb!) but we see rabbit years, mouse whiskers and cheetah spots at the most inopportune times…
🧛🏻♂️ Meanwhile, Asher (MMC) has been distancing himself from his conservative vampire family. There is prejudice and plenty of scepticism to start - is Asher a good guy or is he pretending not to be evil like the rest of his fam? Why is he working as a tech consultant if his fam is supposedly rich?? There’s intrigue, workplace shenanigans, and a showdown with Ash’s fam…
🧚🏼♀️ Meanwhile, we get to meet Raya’s roomies, Zuri (vampire from a progressive family) and Reverie, a cute little sprite. Will book two focus on either of them? They’re both such great characters! Excited to read more from this series! Thank you for the eARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yes! Another book I can add to my low angst, spicy, shifter romance recommendations! Right off the bat, the story just pulls you in. The pacing of this book was excellent! I really enjoyed getting to know Raya, her roomies, Asher and their coworkers and really everyone in this world!
Without giving too much away, my only wish was to explore more about her specific kind. There was definitely an explanation but I wanted just…more! Even Asher, the broody man that he is, I was super curious about the vampire world and while Bair does an excellent job portraying just enough of his backstory, as a dark romance girl, I wanted to know more in depth, like maybe a full flashback! Let’s just say, I was left wanting more and now I can’t wait for the remaining books to come out cuz I need to know about everything!!!
All in all, a really great book. If you’re new to the genre or just looking for a low angst, rom-com-ish vibe with a shifter twist, this one is definitely for you!
Without giving too much away, my only wish was to explore more about her specific kind. There was definitely an explanation but I wanted just…more! Even Asher, the broody man that he is, I was super curious about the vampire world and while Bair does an excellent job portraying just enough of his backstory, as a dark romance girl, I wanted to know more in depth, like maybe a full flashback! Let’s just say, I was left wanting more and now I can’t wait for the remaining books to come out cuz I need to know about everything!!!
All in all, a really great book. If you’re new to the genre or just looking for a low angst, rom-com-ish vibe with a shifter twist, this one is definitely for you!
January 28, 2026
*4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because...Goodreads
Thank you to the author for sending me an eArc of this book.
I absolutely devoured this book once I got into it. I really enjoyed the characters, obviously Raya and Asher, but so many of the supporting characters were given clear identities and personalities. I dare anyone not to be charmed by Reverie. I really enjoyed the story progression, though I was worried that perhaps things were moving too fast, but by the end the pacing worked out really well. If you want a story that has a great mix of spice, dynamic scenes and will make you giggle and kick your feet this is definitely one you should pick up. We get both Raya and Asher's POVs and it makes it even better when we see the moments that they are growing together. Asher is the perfect grumpy to counter Raya's sunshine and they definitely bring out the best in each other. I can't wait to get the change to pick up more by this author!
Thank you to the author for sending me an eArc of this book.
I absolutely devoured this book once I got into it. I really enjoyed the characters, obviously Raya and Asher, but so many of the supporting characters were given clear identities and personalities. I dare anyone not to be charmed by Reverie. I really enjoyed the story progression, though I was worried that perhaps things were moving too fast, but by the end the pacing worked out really well. If you want a story that has a great mix of spice, dynamic scenes and will make you giggle and kick your feet this is definitely one you should pick up. We get both Raya and Asher's POVs and it makes it even better when we see the moments that they are growing together. Asher is the perfect grumpy to counter Raya's sunshine and they definitely bring out the best in each other. I can't wait to get the change to pick up more by this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a cozy paranormal romcom and it gave me all the feels. Raya is a late shifter who can’t control her shifts or even what she shifts into. She starts work at a new job and meets Asher, a kind stranger who helped her previously to her starting her job. Only, he doesn’t seem so kind anymore.
They end up having to go on a work trip together but get stuck in the same hotel room…with one bed.
This book had everything I love: close proximity, only one bed, a cute FMC, and a hot, considerate MMC.
Asher does what he can to help Raya, noticing that she struggles with her shifting, by doing some research and encouraging her to work on it. I love when characters push the other to be better.
I also ove that they were able to continue their relationship past the work trip and also… no third act breakup.
Thank you to Corina Bair for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
They end up having to go on a work trip together but get stuck in the same hotel room…with one bed.
This book had everything I love: close proximity, only one bed, a cute FMC, and a hot, considerate MMC.
Asher does what he can to help Raya, noticing that she struggles with her shifting, by doing some research and encouraging her to work on it. I love when characters push the other to be better.
I also ove that they were able to continue their relationship past the work trip and also… no third act breakup.
Thank you to Corina Bair for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 rounded up to 4
Raya could use a break. She lost her job, is worried about money, and can't seem to control her shift. But then she finds a new job that seems to have a lot of faith in her. They send her on a business trip almost right away with Asher. Everything is going great, until she finds out the hotel doesn't have a room for her. Can she share with Asher and find a way to control her shifts?
Read if you like:
-Paranormal Rom Com
-Shifters
-Vampires
-Closed Off MMC x Outgoing FMC
-Only One Bed
-Found Family
Love (Literally) Bites was so fun! Rae's difficulties shifting were something I've never read before. Usually, its a character unable to shift, not one that shifts suddenly and doesn't know what animals she'll be. Asher's patience, understanding, and determination to help her learn to control her shifts was so sweet. And I loved the way her friends welcomed her into their found family. Plus, a one bed with a failed pillow wall situation always delivers.
Raya could use a break. She lost her job, is worried about money, and can't seem to control her shift. But then she finds a new job that seems to have a lot of faith in her. They send her on a business trip almost right away with Asher. Everything is going great, until she finds out the hotel doesn't have a room for her. Can she share with Asher and find a way to control her shifts?
Read if you like:
-Paranormal Rom Com
-Shifters
-Vampires
-Closed Off MMC x Outgoing FMC
-Only One Bed
-Found Family
Love (Literally) Bites was so fun! Rae's difficulties shifting were something I've never read before. Usually, its a character unable to shift, not one that shifts suddenly and doesn't know what animals she'll be. Asher's patience, understanding, and determination to help her learn to control her shifts was so sweet. And I loved the way her friends welcomed her into their found family. Plus, a one bed with a failed pillow wall situation always delivers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Being released on the 27th of January, I was lucky enough to get an advance copy to review.
This book combined some of my favourite tropes: enemies to friends to lovers, forced proximity, and just one bed… which is of course where the “lovers” part comes in.
I enjoyed the storyline: the fmc struggling with her identity as a shifter who can’t control her power, the mmc a vampire trying to move on from an abusive past. The chemistry was good and the relationship was green flags all round… a sweet, smitten, and completely doting Asher providing a nice change from other vampire romances!
The ending felt a little rushed but we get to see Raya come into her own power which was awesome after seeing how that aspect of the storyline progressed.
I’m rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️ for the spice and
⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 3/4 for the story
This book combined some of my favourite tropes: enemies to friends to lovers, forced proximity, and just one bed… which is of course where the “lovers” part comes in.
I enjoyed the storyline: the fmc struggling with her identity as a shifter who can’t control her power, the mmc a vampire trying to move on from an abusive past. The chemistry was good and the relationship was green flags all round… a sweet, smitten, and completely doting Asher providing a nice change from other vampire romances!
The ending felt a little rushed but we get to see Raya come into her own power which was awesome after seeing how that aspect of the storyline progressed.
I’m rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️ for the spice and
⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 3/4 for the story
January 27, 2026
I had such a fun time reading this book. It’s a perfect blend of spice, lovey dovey, and comedic elements. I loved the characters both together and individually. Seeing Raya’s journey as a shifter was just beautiful and it makes you kinda emotional by the end. I also LOVEEEEEE REVERIE omg she is such an interesting character who really adds even more depth to the story. I know there’s gonna be more books in this series so i’m so excited to see how that’ll go. I’m very curious if it’ll have the same characters or be set in the same world. When I first started this book I went into it with honestly probably too high of expectations but let me tell you these were met!! This would be the perfect book for someone who loves Bride or My Roommates a Vampire. I highly recommend checking this book out! Especially if you’re a fan of vampires and romance.
January 31, 2026
This book had a really unique take on the paranormal romance. It is a really cute story full of romance and interest. Raya is a shifter with an out of the ordinary issue - she partially shifts randomly. It causes some serious chaos in her life. Asher is a vampire with family drama that follows him around. There’s obvious chemistry between the two of them. They attempt to ignore the draw they have toward each other. Asher is absolutely adorable, doing all he can to he’s good man for Raya. She goes through so much, making her stronger. I just wanted to support her, much like Asher did. Seeing the two of them come together and how their romance blooms is so very natural and endearing. The story has emotion and intrigue and steamy moments. It was a really good read and left me feeling satisfied when it ended. Plus you’ve got to love a good MY MATE moment *chef’s kiss*
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is so stinkin cute! It's a cozy, feel-good, medium burn paranormal romance between a shifter and a vampire with some workplace tension and forced proximity thrown in. There's a work trip involved, an "unfortunate" mix up leading to just one hotel room, with only one bed...
I really loved Raya. She's a shifter struggling to shift, but she doesn't let it stop her despite all of the trouble it's causing with her work and family. She's an overall positive, sunshine-y personality and absolute BFF material.
Asher is the grumpy to her sunshine, a broody vampire from an ancient bloodline who can't seem to stay away from Raya. He's adorably obsessed with her!
Some standout side characters are Zuri and Reverie, who I REALLY hope to hear more about in future stories!
I really loved Raya. She's a shifter struggling to shift, but she doesn't let it stop her despite all of the trouble it's causing with her work and family. She's an overall positive, sunshine-y personality and absolute BFF material.
Asher is the grumpy to her sunshine, a broody vampire from an ancient bloodline who can't seem to stay away from Raya. He's adorably obsessed with her!
Some standout side characters are Zuri and Reverie, who I REALLY hope to hear more about in future stories!
January 4, 2026
ARC Review
3.5/5 ⭐️
Love (Literally) Bites is a paranormal romcom between a chaotic sunshine shifter and a broody vampire who work together.
I had so much fun reading this book, but not only that. This is also a story that explores identity, complicated family dynamics, beautiful and protective friendships, the confidence someone has in their abilities…and we get the most incredible and hot spice.
The only thing I can point out that I didn’t entirely liked is that I wasn’t convinced by the way the build up for the romance was handled. I could have used more banter and tension before the hate transitions to love. But this is mostly a personal preference.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait to read more from this author. Thank you so much for the e-arc!
3.5/5 ⭐️
Love (Literally) Bites is a paranormal romcom between a chaotic sunshine shifter and a broody vampire who work together.
I had so much fun reading this book, but not only that. This is also a story that explores identity, complicated family dynamics, beautiful and protective friendships, the confidence someone has in their abilities…and we get the most incredible and hot spice.
The only thing I can point out that I didn’t entirely liked is that I wasn’t convinced by the way the build up for the romance was handled. I could have used more banter and tension before the hate transitions to love. But this is mostly a personal preference.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait to read more from this author. Thank you so much for the e-arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I gave this book 4.5 stars. This was not my typical genre of choice but I loved the cover art and was excited to be selected to receive an ARC copy to provide an honest review!
Again, while this was not my typical go to genre, it took a minute to get into the book because i have never read a shifter book. it was weird to me that when Raya sporadically shifted in public, no one really batted an eye. I then started seeing this world like the movie Zootopia (i relate a lot of books to movies, for my character reference). Once i was in the that mindset, i couldn't put this book down. I loved the developing relationship between Asher and Raya. I loved this story, the characters (my favorite being the "secondary characters" of Milton and Reverie), the villains, and the spice in this book. I really enjoyed this book and the opportunity to read it in advance. I was even able to snag a copy of the physical book (which i tend to prefer over eBooks).
Overall, 9/10 would recommend to read, even if Romantasy isn't your jam. Give it a try. I enjoyed it!
Thanks Corina Bair for this opportunity.
Again, while this was not my typical go to genre, it took a minute to get into the book because i have never read a shifter book. it was weird to me that when Raya sporadically shifted in public, no one really batted an eye. I then started seeing this world like the movie Zootopia (i relate a lot of books to movies, for my character reference). Once i was in the that mindset, i couldn't put this book down. I loved the developing relationship between Asher and Raya. I loved this story, the characters (my favorite being the "secondary characters" of Milton and Reverie), the villains, and the spice in this book. I really enjoyed this book and the opportunity to read it in advance. I was even able to snag a copy of the physical book (which i tend to prefer over eBooks).
Overall, 9/10 would recommend to read, even if Romantasy isn't your jam. Give it a try. I enjoyed it!
Thanks Corina Bair for this opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Author
💖 ARC Review!
This book was a ray of sunshine that brightened up a very cold January for me! It's the cozy paranormal romance that you absolutely need to add to your TBR.
The FMC, Raya, is struggling with controlling her powers as a shifter. She's been jumping from job to job, never feeling quite like she fit in anywhere. When she finally finds the right job, it comes a complication—a broody coworker who just so happens to be from a corrupt, powerful vampire family. Oh, and did I mention he's super hot? Because he's super hot too. Hot enough for Raya to let her guard down and give him a chance.
The banter is adorable and witty, the spice scenes are steamy, and the plot was fun and engaging right to the end.
Excited to dive into Corina Bair's other books next!
This book was a ray of sunshine that brightened up a very cold January for me! It's the cozy paranormal romance that you absolutely need to add to your TBR.
The FMC, Raya, is struggling with controlling her powers as a shifter. She's been jumping from job to job, never feeling quite like she fit in anywhere. When she finally finds the right job, it comes a complication—a broody coworker who just so happens to be from a corrupt, powerful vampire family. Oh, and did I mention he's super hot? Because he's super hot too. Hot enough for Raya to let her guard down and give him a chance.
The banter is adorable and witty, the spice scenes are steamy, and the plot was fun and engaging right to the end.
Excited to dive into Corina Bair's other books next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Corina has done it again. Every time I read one of her stories, I just cannot get enough. These two characters, full disclosure, I met briefly in another book, and couldn't stop yapping about them. Meeting them fully here is everything. Raya is so delightful and her anxiety over shifting makes you want to wrap her in a warm blanket. Asher is the broody, smoldering vampire, who ends up falling so hard he'll do anything to keep Raya safe and happy. Add in the most adorable roommate, and a side of mystery, and this is an absolutely excellent paranormal romance. Thank you to Corina for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC but all thoughts are my own.
This was such a fun take on shifters and vampires! I've never read a book with a shifter who couldn't control their shift, and I love the idea of a legacy vampire telling his family to kick bricks.
This book has plenty of spice, banter, and was pretty low angst. There's some drama but our couple stays strong. It's a fun take on a workplace romance with some forced proximity. Oh no, one bed on a business trip. Whatever shall we do?!
I loved Raya and Asher. I honestly wouldn't be mad if this turned into a little series surrounding them.
This was such a fun take on shifters and vampires! I've never read a book with a shifter who couldn't control their shift, and I love the idea of a legacy vampire telling his family to kick bricks.
This book has plenty of spice, banter, and was pretty low angst. There's some drama but our couple stays strong. It's a fun take on a workplace romance with some forced proximity. Oh no, one bed on a business trip. Whatever shall we do?!
I loved Raya and Asher. I honestly wouldn't be mad if this turned into a little series surrounding them.
January 12, 2026
This cute shifter/vampire romance where she’s literally the black cat but he’s got that vibe. She’s the sunshine to his grumpy. He helps her understand her powers and how to control them
A few things you can expect to find in Love (Literally) Bites:
🔥 He has way too many abs
💔 No 3rd act breakup
🪴 Antagonists to lovers
🛏️ Oops, only one bed!
🩸 Ethical blood banks
🐯Chaotic shifter
🏳️🌈 Queer-normative world with bi+ rep
🫶🏻 "Mine. Say it, little shifter."
🌶️ Spicy with Dual POV!
A few things you can expect to find in Love (Literally) Bites:
🔥 He has way too many abs
💔 No 3rd act breakup
🪴 Antagonists to lovers
🛏️ Oops, only one bed!
🩸 Ethical blood banks
🐯Chaotic shifter
🏳️🌈 Queer-normative world with bi+ rep
🫶🏻 "Mine. Say it, little shifter."
🌶️ Spicy with Dual POV!
January 16, 2026
This was a grumpy sunshine romance between a queer people-pleasing shifter who has issues with her shifting and a broody withdrawn grumpy vamp who falls super hard and super fast. If you were a fan of True Blood (the Sookie Stackhouse series) you’d probably enjoy this, except it’s set in Portland. There is no third act break up. There is definite spice. My fave part is when he learns to cook for her so that he can take care of her. *melt*
I received this as an ARC. This is my honest opinion. I completed reading the book prior to release date.
I received this as an ARC. This is my honest opinion. I completed reading the book prior to release date.
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