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Hollow Hearth #2
How to Ruin a Librarian: A cozy monster romance with truffles, temptation, and one soulbonded chocolatier who knows your darkest cravings.
I just wanted to shelve books and avoid my feelings. Now I’m being emotionally unraveled by a sin-marked chocolatier who won’t stop looking at me like I’m dessert. (Welcome to Wren's Hollow, home of soulbonding, smut-positive gnomes, and chocolate that tells your secrets.)
I’m Roslyn Vellore. Librarian. Lorekeeper. Emotionally repressed human-shaped disaster.
I do not have time for monsters who flirt with their eyes and unpack your trauma with cocoa-dusted confidence. I especially do not have time for Santos Wildmere, Wren’s Hollow’s dangerously tender Velvarkin chocolatier whose magic-infused truffles taste like everything I’ve tried to forget.
My boundaries are ironclad. My wards are gnome-certified.
And I’ve never once accidentally made out with a man behind a bookcase.
Until now.
Because the soulbond between us? It’s real. It hums beneath my skin every time he looks at me like I’m made of sugar and starlight. And when ancient tomes go missing from the Loreloft and something dark rises, stirring long-buried magic in Wren's Hollow, I’ll have to work with the one monster who makes my knees weak and my shields glitch.
Together, we’ll chase down forbidden magic. Unravel the mystery. And I absolutely will not kiss him in the back of the library.
Or the chocolate shop.
Or…okay, listen. This is getting very inconvenient.
A spicy cozy monster romance about a feral librarian, a chocolate empath Velvarkin with wreck-me eyes, and the most dangerously sweet soulbond Wren’s Hollow has ever seen.
I’m Roslyn Vellore. Librarian. Lorekeeper. Emotionally repressed human-shaped disaster.
I do not have time for monsters who flirt with their eyes and unpack your trauma with cocoa-dusted confidence. I especially do not have time for Santos Wildmere, Wren’s Hollow’s dangerously tender Velvarkin chocolatier whose magic-infused truffles taste like everything I’ve tried to forget.
My boundaries are ironclad. My wards are gnome-certified.
And I’ve never once accidentally made out with a man behind a bookcase.
Until now.
Because the soulbond between us? It’s real. It hums beneath my skin every time he looks at me like I’m made of sugar and starlight. And when ancient tomes go missing from the Loreloft and something dark rises, stirring long-buried magic in Wren's Hollow, I’ll have to work with the one monster who makes my knees weak and my shields glitch.
Together, we’ll chase down forbidden magic. Unravel the mystery. And I absolutely will not kiss him in the back of the library.
Or the chocolate shop.
Or…okay, listen. This is getting very inconvenient.
A spicy cozy monster romance about a feral librarian, a chocolate empath Velvarkin with wreck-me eyes, and the most dangerously sweet soulbond Wren’s Hollow has ever seen.
274 pages, Paperback
Published September 15, 2025
42 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 22, 2025
This book is colorful, fun, and doesn’t take itself too seriously - which was part of its charm, but also part of its problem. There was potential for a really flirty, silly romp through a fantasy world, but there was too much going on and not enough meat on the bones. I wanted to like this book, and I think I did at the core of it, but it wasn’t as carefree as it tried to be - I had to really pay attention to what was happening between the banter and chaos. Characters constantly popping in and out of scenes, a monumental amount of metaphor and simile, inner (and outer) dialogues that repeated the same sentiments over and over...
Sometimes I felt like the dialog and characters were a bit too chaotic. Everyone was too flamboyantly involved in the romance, which left me feeling like I was reading a flash mob dance sequence unfolding rather than a spicy hot “soulbond” romance between the two main characters.
This is the second book in the series, and while the brief said it wasn’t required to read the first, I definitely feel like I’m missing out on a ton of world building by not. There was a wealth of visual descriptions to build a supremely cozy autumnal atmosphere, but there were also random real world references thrown in that threw me off a bit. Within all is the Gnome Mating Season banter, it was hard to follow the actual plot and conflict within the story. Sometimes it felt like the story went in circles or repeated itself excessively.
Again, I think this was a fun story and the bigger picture was definitely meant to be cute, cozy, spicy, and entertaining. At its core, I liked this enough to finish the book, but I’m not sure I’ll be back for more.
Sometimes I felt like the dialog and characters were a bit too chaotic. Everyone was too flamboyantly involved in the romance, which left me feeling like I was reading a flash mob dance sequence unfolding rather than a spicy hot “soulbond” romance between the two main characters.
This is the second book in the series, and while the brief said it wasn’t required to read the first, I definitely feel like I’m missing out on a ton of world building by not. There was a wealth of visual descriptions to build a supremely cozy autumnal atmosphere, but there were also random real world references thrown in that threw me off a bit. Within all is the Gnome Mating Season banter, it was hard to follow the actual plot and conflict within the story. Sometimes it felt like the story went in circles or repeated itself excessively.
Again, I think this was a fun story and the bigger picture was definitely meant to be cute, cozy, spicy, and entertaining. At its core, I liked this enough to finish the book, but I’m not sure I’ll be back for more.
October 14, 2025
Book 2 of the Hollow Hearth series follows the romantic misadventures of Rosalin, the emotionally repressed librarian, and Santos, the sinfully delicious chocolatier as they navigate their growing soulbond, an increasingly chaotic gnome mating season and a mysterious book thief.
Even though the soulbond is basically another word for fated mates, I really like that Ros had a chance to grow as a person and to decide whether the soulbond (and Santos) was something she truly wanted. And Santos was so sweet and patient.
And the gnomes. Those horny little pipsqueaks were such a hilarious hot mess. 🤣
There are so many potential future couples teased in this book. I can't decide who's story I'm most excited for a future book to be about!
Thank you Booksirens and Tansy Applewood for the opportunity to advance read this adorable, hilarious story.
Even though the soulbond is basically another word for fated mates, I really like that Ros had a chance to grow as a person and to decide whether the soulbond (and Santos) was something she truly wanted. And Santos was so sweet and patient.
And the gnomes. Those horny little pipsqueaks were such a hilarious hot mess. 🤣
There are so many potential future couples teased in this book. I can't decide who's story I'm most excited for a future book to be about!
Thank you Booksirens and Tansy Applewood for the opportunity to advance read this adorable, hilarious story.
September 23, 2025
Very cute, whimsical romantic comedy fantasy
This is filled with very whimsical similes and metaphors that mean we can only guess what. But I like them. It makes me feel immersed, like I’m part of this world, so I should know what they mean. For example, “Sharp with cinnamon want. Laced with spice and sorrow.” And, “And it tasted like library dust and bare skin, whispered arguments and pressed spines.”
This is a very sweet romance and is SAFE. No cheating, Other Person Drama, or coercion. Santos is very patient and waits for Ros to come to him.
Ros takes an emotional journey to get to Santos, cheered and jeered along by a great many gnomes, small creatures that can hide within bread boxes or ride dogs. They have a Smut Book Club and provide commentary. I feel like the gnomes are us readers. “your gnomes are reading reverse harem again.”
It’s filled with terrific humor. I highly recommend this for a feel-good, entertaining read. I really liked it and will definitely read more in the series. But I don’t think it’s a future re-read for me, so 4 stars.
Contains graphic sex scenes.
Occasional foul language.
1st person past tense from Ros and Santos.
Errors: 10 - 3 punctuation, 1 spelling, 2 tense changes, 1 inconsistency, 1 transposed words, 1 missing space, 1 missing word. Totally readable.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
This is filled with very whimsical similes and metaphors that mean we can only guess what. But I like them. It makes me feel immersed, like I’m part of this world, so I should know what they mean. For example, “Sharp with cinnamon want. Laced with spice and sorrow.” And, “And it tasted like library dust and bare skin, whispered arguments and pressed spines.”
This is a very sweet romance and is SAFE. No cheating, Other Person Drama, or coercion. Santos is very patient and waits for Ros to come to him.
Because he’s patient and tender and absurdly respectful and I HATED HIM. (Not really. Just enough to want to climb him again and set myself on fire.)
Ros takes an emotional journey to get to Santos, cheered and jeered along by a great many gnomes, small creatures that can hide within bread boxes or ride dogs. They have a Smut Book Club and provide commentary. I feel like the gnomes are us readers. “your gnomes are reading reverse harem again.”
“You’re the future star of this week’s reading,” Letty said cheerfully.
“I am not in the book,” I said immediately.
Every gnome screamed like they'd been hit with a romance novel cliffhanger.
It’s filled with terrific humor. I highly recommend this for a feel-good, entertaining read. I really liked it and will definitely read more in the series. But I don’t think it’s a future re-read for me, so 4 stars.
Contains graphic sex scenes.
Occasional foul language.
1st person past tense from Ros and Santos.
Errors: 10 - 3 punctuation, 1 spelling, 2 tense changes, 1 inconsistency, 1 transposed words, 1 missing space, 1 missing word. Totally readable.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
October 14, 2025
So I’m going to put in parenthesis my review of the first novel in this series, purely because (aside from the main characters being different) I had a lot of the fond feelings. After that, I’ll include what I loved about this particular couple individually.
“This book is one of the reasons I love reading indie authors’ work so much. You find gems like these. Books that, the more you read, bloom into something unexpected and beautiful. I went in expecting the spice, and boy, did I get it! I was even prepared for the tenderness between the main couple. But the sheer volume of feeling and depth, was just so much more than I expected. The connection between Thorn and Tilda, the bond that unfurls, just warmed my heart. What completely threw me for a loop in the absolute best way, was the humor in this book. The nosiness and vulgarity of the side characters actually made me laugh out loud. I loved it so much. “
Alright, onto this novel! The above is still true of this novel; the beauty, the love, the magic! And the humor! Oh, the humor!
The stubbornness of Ros was so infuriating to me in the best way, partly because obviously you want them to end up together, but also because her stubbornness echoed my own stubborness. My own past of feeling like I wouldn’t be completely accepted for myself, and pushing someone away because of it. But, Ros, just like myself I’m happy to say. Finally got it together and got there, eventually finding her happiness in Santos. And Santos, like my now husband, was so endlessly thoughtful and patient, both there and ready when we got there. Another beautiful book
Thank you so much Tansy Applewood and NetGalley for the ARC
“This book is one of the reasons I love reading indie authors’ work so much. You find gems like these. Books that, the more you read, bloom into something unexpected and beautiful. I went in expecting the spice, and boy, did I get it! I was even prepared for the tenderness between the main couple. But the sheer volume of feeling and depth, was just so much more than I expected. The connection between Thorn and Tilda, the bond that unfurls, just warmed my heart. What completely threw me for a loop in the absolute best way, was the humor in this book. The nosiness and vulgarity of the side characters actually made me laugh out loud. I loved it so much. “
Alright, onto this novel! The above is still true of this novel; the beauty, the love, the magic! And the humor! Oh, the humor!
The stubbornness of Ros was so infuriating to me in the best way, partly because obviously you want them to end up together, but also because her stubbornness echoed my own stubborness. My own past of feeling like I wouldn’t be completely accepted for myself, and pushing someone away because of it. But, Ros, just like myself I’m happy to say. Finally got it together and got there, eventually finding her happiness in Santos. And Santos, like my now husband, was so endlessly thoughtful and patient, both there and ready when we got there. Another beautiful book
Thank you so much Tansy Applewood and NetGalley for the ARC
October 4, 2025
If you’re looking for a delightful autumn escape, check out Tansy Applewood's How to Ruin a Librarian (Hollow Hearth #2). This book is the perfect spicy romance set against a cozy, autumnal fantasy backdrop, delivering plenty of heat and laugh-out-loud humor.
The FMC is Roslyn Vellore, a meticulous librarian who lives in her cardigans and buttons herself up away from others. Her carefully structured life is derailed when a chocalicious monster invades her world, often by becoming a persistent, charming fixture in her library or coffee shop. Watching Santos' gentle persistence and relentless flirting break through her defenses—often through witty verbal sparring and small acts of service that completely contradict her need for solitude—creates a heartwarming and funny conflict.
The book thrives on its whimsical small-town setting, which features a charming community, strong found family themes, and, yes, a gnome smut book club. This unique, cozy atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for the intense chemistry building between Roslyn and her monster.
A delicious slow-burn romance, the author takes her time, prioritizing banter with the townfolk along with deep emotional connection. This deliberate pacing ensures that the eventual, highly satisfying spicy payoff feels genuinely earned. It’s the ideal humorous escape for readers who love great character development alongside their fantastical love stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The FMC is Roslyn Vellore, a meticulous librarian who lives in her cardigans and buttons herself up away from others. Her carefully structured life is derailed when a chocalicious monster invades her world, often by becoming a persistent, charming fixture in her library or coffee shop. Watching Santos' gentle persistence and relentless flirting break through her defenses—often through witty verbal sparring and small acts of service that completely contradict her need for solitude—creates a heartwarming and funny conflict.
The book thrives on its whimsical small-town setting, which features a charming community, strong found family themes, and, yes, a gnome smut book club. This unique, cozy atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for the intense chemistry building between Roslyn and her monster.
A delicious slow-burn romance, the author takes her time, prioritizing banter with the townfolk along with deep emotional connection. This deliberate pacing ensures that the eventual, highly satisfying spicy payoff feels genuinely earned. It’s the ideal humorous escape for readers who love great character development alongside their fantastical love stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* She’s a librarian
* He’s a magical chocolatier
* They’re soulbonded!
* Found family
* Cozy and spicy
Thank you to LoveNotes and Tandy Applewood for this eARC! I was so happy to read the next book in this series!
Tansy Applewood’s writing is so sharp and witty! I read this book in one sitting. I enjoyed the dual POV and how the meddling from others in town spurs them into giving in to their yearning for each other. I love the quirkiness as they compare their chocolate and other spices to what they’re feeling and their personalities. And the other characters are absolutely hilarious with their very naughty commentary, they had me giggling so often as the encourage things to heat up between Ros and Santos🤭 The magic in this was unique and cozy! And the sexual energy is in the air around and just the right amount of fall spice and steam ☕️🍂
At first, I really didn’t understand why Ros kept fighting the soulbond with Santos. He seemed nearly perfect! Especially for her. But when she reflects on her family history, it makes much more sense. When she finally relents and accepts him and the bond they share, it’s so passionate and romantic, nearly primal with how strong their bond is. 🫠 By the end, I adored their slow-burn HEA, how she reconnects with her sisters, and how they also worked together to help the mystery Wilderkind. Ros finds that sense of belonging that she always wanted with everyone in Wren’s Hollow, and it made my heart so happy! 🥰
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* She’s a librarian
* He’s a magical chocolatier
* They’re soulbonded!
* Found family
* Cozy and spicy
Thank you to LoveNotes and Tandy Applewood for this eARC! I was so happy to read the next book in this series!
Tansy Applewood’s writing is so sharp and witty! I read this book in one sitting. I enjoyed the dual POV and how the meddling from others in town spurs them into giving in to their yearning for each other. I love the quirkiness as they compare their chocolate and other spices to what they’re feeling and their personalities. And the other characters are absolutely hilarious with their very naughty commentary, they had me giggling so often as the encourage things to heat up between Ros and Santos🤭 The magic in this was unique and cozy! And the sexual energy is in the air around and just the right amount of fall spice and steam ☕️🍂
At first, I really didn’t understand why Ros kept fighting the soulbond with Santos. He seemed nearly perfect! Especially for her. But when she reflects on her family history, it makes much more sense. When she finally relents and accepts him and the bond they share, it’s so passionate and romantic, nearly primal with how strong their bond is. 🫠 By the end, I adored their slow-burn HEA, how she reconnects with her sisters, and how they also worked together to help the mystery Wilderkind. Ros finds that sense of belonging that she always wanted with everyone in Wren’s Hollow, and it made my heart so happy! 🥰
September 22, 2025
This book was not what I expected!! The cover makes it look like such a cute and lighthearted smooshy read, but Tansy said, "Hell no! I'm throwing in all manner of smoking hot characters with a healthy helping of feral fiendish gnomes with a vocabulary that would make the colour pink blush. " Oh my goodness, Gran. You need to read this book just for Gran!!! I will share just one of my favourite Gran interactions. You will get it. She is just too good to pass up.
“Ros, sweetheart. You once groaned during a staff meeting when someone mentioned ganache.”
“That was allergy-related.”
Gran passed by muttering, “You can only lie to yourself for so long before your thighs start leaking truth magic.”
“GRAN.”
This book is about Ros, a librarian who is struggling to face her soulbond with Santos. She doesn't do feelings and struggles with her self-esteem and feels utterly unseen and alone. But with the gnome mating season bringing magic into the air she is struggling to fight the pull of the bond and starts to open up to how she feels.
I definitely recommend this book!! And I intend to return to this series after I complete my current ARC commitments.
***Thank you to book sirens and Tansy Applewood for sending me the ARC. It was such a fun read and had me laughing out loud so many times! The above review is my honest opinion and has not been influenced in any way.
“Ros, sweetheart. You once groaned during a staff meeting when someone mentioned ganache.”
“That was allergy-related.”
Gran passed by muttering, “You can only lie to yourself for so long before your thighs start leaking truth magic.”
“GRAN.”
This book is about Ros, a librarian who is struggling to face her soulbond with Santos. She doesn't do feelings and struggles with her self-esteem and feels utterly unseen and alone. But with the gnome mating season bringing magic into the air she is struggling to fight the pull of the bond and starts to open up to how she feels.
I definitely recommend this book!! And I intend to return to this series after I complete my current ARC commitments.
***Thank you to book sirens and Tansy Applewood for sending me the ARC. It was such a fun read and had me laughing out loud so many times! The above review is my honest opinion and has not been influenced in any way.
September 25, 2025
Tansy Applewood writes with a descriptive flair that engages your senses. She is a master of similes and metaphors, keeping a perfect balance of description, dialogue, action and humor. This book was such a pleasure to read!
I quickly became invested in Roslyn’s journey from an emotionally closed off librarian who represses her magic, to her acknowledging that to matter meant allowing herself to be seen, and finding the courage to take that leap. Santos, the epically attractive chocolatier, has the patience of a saint!
The found family trope is strong in this book. Other tropes include fated mates, he falls first, and the healing of family bonds.
I jumped into How to Ruin a Librarian, which is the second in the series, without any background into the magic system or world building that a reader would typically get starting at the beginning. As you can see, I rated this book as a 5 star, but I still recommend starting with book one for the best experience. I’ll be picking up book one, because I just have to know how Roslyn’s barista bff ended up soulbonded to an antler sporting Hollowborne!
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.
I quickly became invested in Roslyn’s journey from an emotionally closed off librarian who represses her magic, to her acknowledging that to matter meant allowing herself to be seen, and finding the courage to take that leap. Santos, the epically attractive chocolatier, has the patience of a saint!
The found family trope is strong in this book. Other tropes include fated mates, he falls first, and the healing of family bonds.
I jumped into How to Ruin a Librarian, which is the second in the series, without any background into the magic system or world building that a reader would typically get starting at the beginning. As you can see, I rated this book as a 5 star, but I still recommend starting with book one for the best experience. I’ll be picking up book one, because I just have to know how Roslyn’s barista bff ended up soulbonded to an antler sporting Hollowborne!
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.
October 4, 2025
This book was probably the cutest, most funny, smutty cozy rom-com I’ve read to date.
The banter was great, the gnomes were priceless and chaotic (as gnomes should be), and the truffles are MAGICAL.
Expect:
•laughs
•chaotic gnome infestation
•golden retriever x black cat
•judgy sentient library
•cinnamon roll with sexy sinmarks
•ALOT of glitter
•slowburn
•a bit of mystery
I honestly couldn’t have asked for much more from a cozy book this fall; Applewood did NOT disappoint. I would put this right alongside “Legends and Lattes” and “The Baby Dragon Cafe.” The vibes are cute, sassy and surprisingly sexy. It’s got chocolate, smut, monsters, mystery and fog. I truly enjoyed this book; it’s very easy to read and well written. I laughed, I groaned, I cheered and laughed some more. I highlighted SO many hilarious quotes and likely will be quoting Lenny for the remainder of the year haha.
You’ll love Lenny and her gang of gnomes. Roslyn “Ros” and Santos are soulbonded. Ros, repressing her magic, has a mystery on her hands. Santos, trying to give Ros space and still help her. But, when books go missing and gnome mating season is in the air, a black cat can only avoid fate for so long.
Seriously, if you’re looking for a sexy cozy read, this is IT.
The banter was great, the gnomes were priceless and chaotic (as gnomes should be), and the truffles are MAGICAL.
Expect:
•laughs
•chaotic gnome infestation
•golden retriever x black cat
•judgy sentient library
•cinnamon roll with sexy sinmarks
•ALOT of glitter
•slowburn
•a bit of mystery
I honestly couldn’t have asked for much more from a cozy book this fall; Applewood did NOT disappoint. I would put this right alongside “Legends and Lattes” and “The Baby Dragon Cafe.” The vibes are cute, sassy and surprisingly sexy. It’s got chocolate, smut, monsters, mystery and fog. I truly enjoyed this book; it’s very easy to read and well written. I laughed, I groaned, I cheered and laughed some more. I highlighted SO many hilarious quotes and likely will be quoting Lenny for the remainder of the year haha.
You’ll love Lenny and her gang of gnomes. Roslyn “Ros” and Santos are soulbonded. Ros, repressing her magic, has a mystery on her hands. Santos, trying to give Ros space and still help her. But, when books go missing and gnome mating season is in the air, a black cat can only avoid fate for so long.
Seriously, if you’re looking for a sexy cozy read, this is IT.
November 6, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I did not read the first book in this series. To be honest, there are a lot of names and characters that just get thrown in and I never can tell where exactly they are inside the library or the cafe, in Roselyn’s house etc.
It seems like a magical little town that has a bunch of magical creatures and they all seem to hang out at the same time in the same spot. It was a bit overwhelming for me and I couldn’t figure out how big the Gnomes were. Some seemed to be as tall as a child and some seemed to fit into a cutlery drawer 🤷♀️🤷♀️
The main plot (Roslyn and Santos) was a bit overshadowed by the side plot (or maybe main plot for the next book) and I had to skip some of the constant chatter by the Gnomes, as they didn’t always contribute to the plot and were mere fillers (Gnome mating season anyone??) in my eyes.
It was an ok read, but would recommend to read the first book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I did not read the first book in this series. To be honest, there are a lot of names and characters that just get thrown in and I never can tell where exactly they are inside the library or the cafe, in Roselyn’s house etc.
It seems like a magical little town that has a bunch of magical creatures and they all seem to hang out at the same time in the same spot. It was a bit overwhelming for me and I couldn’t figure out how big the Gnomes were. Some seemed to be as tall as a child and some seemed to fit into a cutlery drawer 🤷♀️🤷♀️
The main plot (Roslyn and Santos) was a bit overshadowed by the side plot (or maybe main plot for the next book) and I had to skip some of the constant chatter by the Gnomes, as they didn’t always contribute to the plot and were mere fillers (Gnome mating season anyone??) in my eyes.
It was an ok read, but would recommend to read the first book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 23, 2025
Librarians, Love, and Loyalty: This story proves chosen family is the real magic.
“Don’t go wasting your emotion… Lay all your love on me.”
ABBA knew what they were talking about—and so does this book.
I’m a total sucker for the found family trope, and I have a soft spot for stories about librarians. This gem delivers both, with heart, humor, and just the right amount of heat. What really got me? It’s not just the main character who finds love and belonging—it’s a ripple effect. The kind of story where choosing someone means showing up through joy, mess, fear, and growth. That emotional depth? Toe-curling. And yes, the spice lives up to it.
I fell head-over-heels for every character. Their quirks, their bonds, their bravery—it all felt real and earned. I’ve grabbed book one and am keeping my eyes peeled for the next in the series. If you love found family, emotional resonance, and a dash of librarian magic, this one’s for you.
“Don’t go wasting your emotion… Lay all your love on me.”
ABBA knew what they were talking about—and so does this book.
I’m a total sucker for the found family trope, and I have a soft spot for stories about librarians. This gem delivers both, with heart, humor, and just the right amount of heat. What really got me? It’s not just the main character who finds love and belonging—it’s a ripple effect. The kind of story where choosing someone means showing up through joy, mess, fear, and growth. That emotional depth? Toe-curling. And yes, the spice lives up to it.
I fell head-over-heels for every character. Their quirks, their bonds, their bravery—it all felt real and earned. I’ve grabbed book one and am keeping my eyes peeled for the next in the series. If you love found family, emotional resonance, and a dash of librarian magic, this one’s for you.
September 29, 2025
I have never read a book like this and I LOVE IT.
This book is comedy and romance all in one. I love that it’s fall themed with gnomes everywhere. It has monsters, humans, witches and familiars. The spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.
Roslyn is a book/library witch who has yet to be soul bonded. It’s gnome mating season in town and everyone is hoping she will get her bond soon.
Santos is a monster chocolatier that’s been waiting over 400 years to soul bond with the right one. But she isn’t too sure she is ready. He is patient and works with her to solve a mystery.
Will Ros finally be soul bonded this gnome mating season? Can she figure out the mystery and still keep her library happy? Will the gnomes ever calm down??
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is comedy and romance all in one. I love that it’s fall themed with gnomes everywhere. It has monsters, humans, witches and familiars. The spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.
Roslyn is a book/library witch who has yet to be soul bonded. It’s gnome mating season in town and everyone is hoping she will get her bond soon.
Santos is a monster chocolatier that’s been waiting over 400 years to soul bond with the right one. But she isn’t too sure she is ready. He is patient and works with her to solve a mystery.
Will Ros finally be soul bonded this gnome mating season? Can she figure out the mystery and still keep her library happy? Will the gnomes ever calm down??
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 25, 2025
A hilariously raunchy and whimsical romance
Thank you, BookSirens and Tansy Applewood for the ARC of this book for free. I am leaving a review voluntarily.
This book was a super easy and quick read for me. Ros is a cute librarian who keeps denying her LOUD bond with Santos. He is patient with her, but when she finally gives in, he takes her to space and back. the spice was giving, i wish there was more!!! I love the horny little gnomes. Don't even get me started on Gran, what a hoot! We get a little side story that brings Ros and her sisters together, where they lay out their hurt and help bring two mates together.
Overall, I think this was a cute little story. I was wanting more angst between Ros and Santos, though.
Thank you, BookSirens and Tansy Applewood for the ARC of this book for free. I am leaving a review voluntarily.
This book was a super easy and quick read for me. Ros is a cute librarian who keeps denying her LOUD bond with Santos. He is patient with her, but when she finally gives in, he takes her to space and back. the spice was giving, i wish there was more!!! I love the horny little gnomes. Don't even get me started on Gran, what a hoot! We get a little side story that brings Ros and her sisters together, where they lay out their hurt and help bring two mates together.
Overall, I think this was a cute little story. I was wanting more angst between Ros and Santos, though.
October 18, 2025
"A Stunning Monster Mystery Romance series"
The story is so much fun to read! It is Funny ,exciting, and steamy hot. The characters are unique with quirky personalities you will love.
Ros is a spunky Librarian witch. At the Wren's Hollow village Library. The Village is charming and quirky. The Library is old, A little bit alive and very judgemental.
It is also full of over sexed Gromes! Who live below the Library
Santos is a sexy Chocolatier Monster with sinmarks. He has known for sometime that Ros is his fated mate. Only she fights her feelings for him! Santos wants to bond with her.
When rare books go missing from the library. Will this be his chance to convince Ros to accept him? Can they solve the mystery of the missing books?
The story is so much fun to read! It is Funny ,exciting, and steamy hot. The characters are unique with quirky personalities you will love.
Ros is a spunky Librarian witch. At the Wren's Hollow village Library. The Village is charming and quirky. The Library is old, A little bit alive and very judgemental.
It is also full of over sexed Gromes! Who live below the Library
Santos is a sexy Chocolatier Monster with sinmarks. He has known for sometime that Ros is his fated mate. Only she fights her feelings for him! Santos wants to bond with her.
When rare books go missing from the library. Will this be his chance to convince Ros to accept him? Can they solve the mystery of the missing books?
November 11, 2025
Always tap in when gnome mating season is involved
This book is on the polar opposite end of the spectrum from Serious to Pure, deliriously silly chaos. Super fun, pure silliness. You can tell the author had a fun time writing this. If you are looking to suspend adulting and plunge into a giggle in literary form, look no further. Sizzling fantasy romance peppered with emotional realism of coping with generational trauma.
Highly recommend for those who know how to put their “Serious adult” hat away on the shelf for a couple of hours, and embrace this love letter to silliness and sexual positivity.
Don’t knock it till you try it, probably best to read first book first, but probably better enjoyed if you do.
This book is on the polar opposite end of the spectrum from Serious to Pure, deliriously silly chaos. Super fun, pure silliness. You can tell the author had a fun time writing this. If you are looking to suspend adulting and plunge into a giggle in literary form, look no further. Sizzling fantasy romance peppered with emotional realism of coping with generational trauma.
Highly recommend for those who know how to put their “Serious adult” hat away on the shelf for a couple of hours, and embrace this love letter to silliness and sexual positivity.
Don’t knock it till you try it, probably best to read first book first, but probably better enjoyed if you do.
September 21, 2025
This was funny, and raunchy and also heart-warming. Loved the comedy all the gnomes provided, and the yearning of the MMC was fantastic, I was really rooting for him from the start. I really enjoyed the messages about self understanding, being brave, and leaning on others and your community. I also liked that this had a little mystery element that was a conduit for our FMC learning those lessons - made it more interesting!
I went into this without reading book one first, but I would recommend starting with book one, as I felt I would have benefitted with more of an introduction to the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I went into this without reading book one first, but I would recommend starting with book one, as I felt I would have benefitted with more of an introduction to the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
I thought I’d missed something so did go back & but the first one & read that & then come back to this one. Didn’t really miss anything in terms of storyline.
Came for the autumn, witchy, cute cover vibes, wasn’t expecting much when I started it, but daaamn this book delivered all the autumn vibes, all the witchy, all the gnomes (did refer to this book as gnome infested) & really liked it!
If you’re looking for monster smut with plot & all the feisty gnomes you can handle, you need this book!
I received an advance copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Came for the autumn, witchy, cute cover vibes, wasn’t expecting much when I started it, but daaamn this book delivered all the autumn vibes, all the witchy, all the gnomes (did refer to this book as gnome infested) & really liked it!
If you’re looking for monster smut with plot & all the feisty gnomes you can handle, you need this book!
I received an advance copy for free & I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2025
Another wild, cosy, slightly spicy paranormal romance set in Wren's Hollow was the perfect autumn-spiced pickup I needed. The gnomes (and their chaos) are back, and the librarian is resisting her soulbond to the sexy chocolatier in town. There is also someone stealing her book, leading her to confront both her past and her future. I received an advance review copy at no cost, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2025
How to Ruin a Librarian is the second book in the Hollow Heart series and it focuses on Ros and Santos, who also appeared in the first book and those who read it, could not miss their attraction. I loved the atmosphere in the book. It is cosy and there are always smells of spice and autumn in the air. I also loved Ros and Santos. They are so cute together and their attraction scorches the pages with heat!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Holy smokes Tansy Applewood has done it again. This story of Roslyn and Santos was easy to devour like one of Santos’ truffles! So sweet and heart warming with a little twinge of pain! Would love to see more from the crew at Wren’s Hollow!
October 5, 2025
How to Ruin a Librarian Book 2 in The Hollow Heart Series by Tansy Applewood is a wild ride! The series continues to be funny, delightful and steamy, that I devoured. The world building, the character development and descriptiveness is amazing! I'm looking forward to reading more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2025
This is my second read from this new author and series. This is Roslyn and Santos's story. A thoroughly enjoyable read and perfect with some of my own favourite chocolate.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2025
Cutesy and loveable small town romance. It did exactly what it said on the tin. Read it on an autumn Sunday afternoon with a cocoa. It was delightful! Thank you for letting me find my happy place
I received this arc for free and leave this review voluntarily.
I received this arc for free and leave this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2025
Funny, but somehow lacking. Quite confusing.
October 3, 2025
I enjoyed this fall feeling romance
It was fun to curl up with some cocoa and blanket with a romance
It was fun to curl up with some cocoa and blanket with a romance
February 2, 2026
I honestly have no clue what I just read. I was lost the entire time and just stuck around to find out what the female monster was at the end….
September 27, 2025
This book made me snort laugh multiple times.
October 2, 2025
This was FANTASTIC. Read it as an ARC and it was a really good choice. Cozy, funny, dramatic enough and with a decadent touch of spice
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