What do you think?
Rate this book
Cryptid Enforcement Bureau #2
Calming a Gorgon
Ender Imorus here, to share a startling development in my very dead love life. My portion of this backwards story begins when I feel an odd urge. I thought about ignoring it, but what those blasted Fates want, they usually get, so why bother? Don’t suppose I could’ve guessed it would lead me right to Cyrus Grimm and Killian Neftlem, two people I should stay far away from. Mainly as I’d prefer to remain free and at large, instead of charged and imprisoned.
But meet, we did, and some dramatic things happened, which ended with those two wonderful, authoritative, law-abiding cryptids donating into the bank of Ender. After which...tada, pregnant! An accident, yes, but it's also my chance at a family again. And it is my chance, as they are mine! That Fate and Siren are acting like they want more, but I can see through it! Call me paranoid, but no one is taking my babies from me. I won’t let it happen, and I know they will try!
Does part of me want to drop my paranoia and let them in? Not really. I’m quite happy with my paranoia. I let it flourish, and it keeps me safe! But—and it’s a very small but—there’s a possibility that the two ain’t faking, and are my chance to start over. The question is, do I want it? Nah—paranoia all the way!
Okay...an itty-bitty part of my elderly butt wants all they’re offering, but what are the chances those two are being serious?!
AUTHOR This is an MMM Mpreg Paranormal Romance book that ends on a cliffhanger, please see inside or my website for a full content warning.
Second While the world the book is set in is darker, the relationship between the three main characters is not.
But meet, we did, and some dramatic things happened, which ended with those two wonderful, authoritative, law-abiding cryptids donating into the bank of Ender. After which...tada, pregnant! An accident, yes, but it's also my chance at a family again. And it is my chance, as they are mine! That Fate and Siren are acting like they want more, but I can see through it! Call me paranoid, but no one is taking my babies from me. I won’t let it happen, and I know they will try!
Does part of me want to drop my paranoia and let them in? Not really. I’m quite happy with my paranoia. I let it flourish, and it keeps me safe! But—and it’s a very small but—there’s a possibility that the two ain’t faking, and are my chance to start over. The question is, do I want it? Nah—paranoia all the way!
Okay...an itty-bitty part of my elderly butt wants all they’re offering, but what are the chances those two are being serious?!
AUTHOR This is an MMM Mpreg Paranormal Romance book that ends on a cliffhanger, please see inside or my website for a full content warning.
Second While the world the book is set in is darker, the relationship between the three main characters is not.
494 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
About the author
Shelby Rhodes
25 books164 followersShelby Rhodes is a lover and writer of MM Paranormal Romance novels, but any genre is up for grabs. She loves building worlds and creating new realities. In her books you can expect to find a mix of humor and fluff with a dash of blood and violence. And while dramatic and comedic monologues may be her favorite things, that doesn't mean she won't try to rip your heart out.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 31, 2026
I loved it!!
Catching a Water Nymph is my favorite read this year so far.
So of course, I wanted to read the second book. I really, really wanted to wait though. I knew the book ended on a cliff hanger and I wanted to wait till book three was released. Oh well, I just didn't want to wait anymore and had to read it.
I'm glad I read it but ugh cliff hanger and now I have to wait. *sigh
Nonetheless I absolutely adored it.
I didn't think I would love Cyrus as much as I did but he is definitely my favorite.
Ender and Killian were great too, though it took me longer to warm up to them. Both had a very traumatic past, that still even hundreds years later, influences the way they acted and felt.
The beginning felt slow-ish but only because Shelby Rhodes always has extensive world building. I don't know when it happened but at one point, I couldn't put it away. It felt long yes, but I would read so much more right now!
I didn't see how Ender could fit into Killian's and Cyrus already very established and strong relationship. I'm surprised at how well he fit. I'm even more surprised that Ender was the one with the 'issues' regarding a relationship and not the already established couple. The book ends before they officially get together though!
There are a LOT of names and characters that you get introduced or just revisit and at times it is confusing BUT I love all these characters.
Zenny, ugh my heart! HE IS THE SWEETEST LITTLE BOY!!!
Soren was AMAZING. I loved the begrudging relationship dynamic between him and Cyrus.
I really hope Quill gets a book. He's just a cute gentle giant.
Severo and Seri were perfect as always.
And honorable mention, the cutest lil toddler Skya. Everytime she is mentioned I get a smile on my face.
Ugh I just love this series. The mysteries are super interesting and I'm excited to see what happens next!
Catching a Water Nymph is my favorite read this year so far.
So of course, I wanted to read the second book. I really, really wanted to wait though. I knew the book ended on a cliff hanger and I wanted to wait till book three was released. Oh well, I just didn't want to wait anymore and had to read it.
I'm glad I read it but ugh cliff hanger and now I have to wait. *sigh
Nonetheless I absolutely adored it.
I didn't think I would love Cyrus as much as I did but he is definitely my favorite.
Ender and Killian were great too, though it took me longer to warm up to them. Both had a very traumatic past, that still even hundreds years later, influences the way they acted and felt.
The beginning felt slow-ish but only because Shelby Rhodes always has extensive world building. I don't know when it happened but at one point, I couldn't put it away. It felt long yes, but I would read so much more right now!
I didn't see how Ender could fit into Killian's and Cyrus already very established and strong relationship. I'm surprised at how well he fit. I'm even more surprised that Ender was the one with the 'issues' regarding a relationship and not the already established couple. The book ends before they officially get together though!
There are a LOT of names and characters that you get introduced or just revisit and at times it is confusing BUT I love all these characters.
Zenny, ugh my heart! HE IS THE SWEETEST LITTLE BOY!!!
Soren was AMAZING. I loved the begrudging relationship dynamic between him and Cyrus.
I really hope Quill gets a book. He's just a cute gentle giant.
Severo and Seri were perfect as always.
And honorable mention, the cutest lil toddler Skya. Everytime she is mentioned I get a smile on my face.
Ugh I just love this series. The mysteries are super interesting and I'm excited to see what happens next!
January 31, 2026
If you go into this based off reading the blurb, know that this is more like two books in one. The first 1/3 is like a long ‘prologue’ that happens after book 1 but sets up the back 2/3 of the story. The back half is what you’d expect based off the blurb. Also ends on a cliffhanger.
I loved the character growth for Cyrus! I’m a grudge holder and I was prepared to be irritated with his well-intended yet misguided rule-following ways…but I became so endeared to him as I learned more about his character.
Killian is sweet, strong, and complicated.
Ender 10/10 no notes. Dramatic, ridiculous, reckless, and traumatized. Love him and his complicated mess of emotions.
Zenny my new favorite side character! I can’t wait for more of him.
I loved the character growth for Cyrus! I’m a grudge holder and I was prepared to be irritated with his well-intended yet misguided rule-following ways…but I became so endeared to him as I learned more about his character.
Killian is sweet, strong, and complicated.
Ender 10/10 no notes. Dramatic, ridiculous, reckless, and traumatized. Love him and his complicated mess of emotions.
Zenny my new favorite side character! I can’t wait for more of him.
January 31, 2026
I've been so excited for this book to release ever since Shelby first announced it, Catching a Water Nymph is one of my favorite books that Shelby has written. So for them to continue that series with this?! I mean, of course it was going to be amazing!
I'll be honest this book started off a little slow for me, I know with Shelby's writing that she takes her time building up the world her characters exist in, as well as giving as in depth descriptions into each of the characters, which I really enjoy. Now, while at the beginning it did feel a bit like it was dragging, things picked up pace and after a couple chapters I was completely immersed into this beautiful paranormal world once more.
Ender, Killian, and Cyrus are a unique couple, they are all so different from each other but once they get out of their own ways, they end up making a really fantastic team. I liked how their relationship was slowly built, their connection happened gradually overtime which was the most fitting give their circumstances. I thought that was written well, and I thought the concept of Ender's pregnancy was unique and interesting too! (I'm not spoiling that for anyone!)
As much as I loved our three MC's, I also adore the side characters. Well, the good ones anyway. I loved seeing the characters from the first book again, a long with getting introduced to a whole cast of new ones. The harpy was hilarious and so sweet with how much he cares for his brother. And can we talk about Zenny?!? How cute is that kid?! He's absolutely precious and I really hope he'll be able to stay with his new found family.
If you're familiar with Shelby's work you'll know they very much enjoy leaving their readers in suspense. That being said, this book DOES leave off on a cliffhanger, you won't get all the answers yet nor will you see these characters have a happily ever after yet. I highly recommend that if you want to read this book to start with Catching a Water Nymph first, (the first book in this series), it'll help provide you with a better backstory of certain characters and make your reading experience more enjoyable.
I'll be honest this book started off a little slow for me, I know with Shelby's writing that she takes her time building up the world her characters exist in, as well as giving as in depth descriptions into each of the characters, which I really enjoy. Now, while at the beginning it did feel a bit like it was dragging, things picked up pace and after a couple chapters I was completely immersed into this beautiful paranormal world once more.
Ender, Killian, and Cyrus are a unique couple, they are all so different from each other but once they get out of their own ways, they end up making a really fantastic team. I liked how their relationship was slowly built, their connection happened gradually overtime which was the most fitting give their circumstances. I thought that was written well, and I thought the concept of Ender's pregnancy was unique and interesting too! (I'm not spoiling that for anyone!)
As much as I loved our three MC's, I also adore the side characters. Well, the good ones anyway. I loved seeing the characters from the first book again, a long with getting introduced to a whole cast of new ones. The harpy was hilarious and so sweet with how much he cares for his brother. And can we talk about Zenny?!? How cute is that kid?! He's absolutely precious and I really hope he'll be able to stay with his new found family.
If you're familiar with Shelby's work you'll know they very much enjoy leaving their readers in suspense. That being said, this book DOES leave off on a cliffhanger, you won't get all the answers yet nor will you see these characters have a happily ever after yet. I highly recommend that if you want to read this book to start with Catching a Water Nymph first, (the first book in this series), it'll help provide you with a better backstory of certain characters and make your reading experience more enjoyable.
February 9, 2026
So good!
At this point, I'm pretty sure that I have Stockholm syndrome in terms of the cliff hangers Shelby writes, but oh what a delightful torture it is. For real though, if cliff hangers flip you out (and you can't handle that) then you need to wait for the next book to come out. It takes me literal days to stop obsessing about what happens next lol. I can't stop myself though, the books are just so good and I can't help but torture myself. Of course, the fact that until the book ends I'm caught in a constant whirlwind of hilarity, sweetness, action, a little crying, and a whole lot of wonderful characters helps. Ender is hilarious. I can't find any fault with him. He is perfect just as he is and he made me laugh and cry and feel all the good things. Cyrus is... I'll admit I had to do some deep breathing through my anger at Cyrus. I get that he's a stickler and rules and rules (I really, really do get that) but I really struggled with wanting to hate him for the whole book. It is a true testament to Shelby's writing that I ended up really loving him, Ender and Killian as a throuple. I still prefer Ender, but I have somehow managed to forgive Cyrus. Killian was lovely too, but I think with Ender and Cyrus creating such strong reactions for me he got a little less of my attention. The pacing is what I think of as quintessential Shelby Rhodes - there's a slow build up which really sets the whole story up wonderfully and then everything kind of explodes into a really fast paced story for the remainder of the book. Plus, on top of everything that is wonderful about Ender, Killian and Cyrus, we got to see old friends and meet some fantastic new characters too. I'm really hoping this is a series which gets lots of books because there's so much to absorb from this world and so many characters to enjoy!
At this point, I'm pretty sure that I have Stockholm syndrome in terms of the cliff hangers Shelby writes, but oh what a delightful torture it is. For real though, if cliff hangers flip you out (and you can't handle that) then you need to wait for the next book to come out. It takes me literal days to stop obsessing about what happens next lol. I can't stop myself though, the books are just so good and I can't help but torture myself. Of course, the fact that until the book ends I'm caught in a constant whirlwind of hilarity, sweetness, action, a little crying, and a whole lot of wonderful characters helps. Ender is hilarious. I can't find any fault with him. He is perfect just as he is and he made me laugh and cry and feel all the good things. Cyrus is... I'll admit I had to do some deep breathing through my anger at Cyrus. I get that he's a stickler and rules and rules (I really, really do get that) but I really struggled with wanting to hate him for the whole book. It is a true testament to Shelby's writing that I ended up really loving him, Ender and Killian as a throuple. I still prefer Ender, but I have somehow managed to forgive Cyrus. Killian was lovely too, but I think with Ender and Cyrus creating such strong reactions for me he got a little less of my attention. The pacing is what I think of as quintessential Shelby Rhodes - there's a slow build up which really sets the whole story up wonderfully and then everything kind of explodes into a really fast paced story for the remainder of the book. Plus, on top of everything that is wonderful about Ender, Killian and Cyrus, we got to see old friends and meet some fantastic new characters too. I'm really hoping this is a series which gets lots of books because there's so much to absorb from this world and so many characters to enjoy!
February 6, 2026
Calming the Gorgon was an unexpected delight. While the story takes a few chapters to find its footing, by Chapter 7, I was completely hooked and couldn't put it down.
Running an honorable criminal organization is a delicate balancing act, but Ender’s world is upended when a mission becomes unexpectedly personal. After Cyrus makes a choice that alters the fate of his mate, Killian, Ender is forced into the fray. The rescue leaves the trio stranded in deep space, accompanied by Ender’s men, Bureau members, and a group of traumatized victims.
The forced proximity and being close to the anniversary of the death of Ender’s loved ones brings long-buried ghosts to the surface. As Ender’s past returns in a violent way, he finds an unexpected anchor in Cyrus and Killian—leading to a connection far deeper than any of them anticipated. Now navigating a high-risk pregnancy alongside crippling paranoia, Ender must maintain control of his organization while his mates face their own demons. Between the consequences of Cyrus’s past choices and the relentless pursuit by Killian’s family, the stakes have never been higher.
When a dark connection between Cyrus’ lineage and Ender’s tragic history comes to light, the trio is forced to decide: will they let the past tear them apart, or will they fight to protect what they’ve built? This is an intense, emotional beginning to Ender, Cyrus, and Killian's journey, and I am counting down the days for Part 2.
Running an honorable criminal organization is a delicate balancing act, but Ender’s world is upended when a mission becomes unexpectedly personal. After Cyrus makes a choice that alters the fate of his mate, Killian, Ender is forced into the fray. The rescue leaves the trio stranded in deep space, accompanied by Ender’s men, Bureau members, and a group of traumatized victims.
The forced proximity and being close to the anniversary of the death of Ender’s loved ones brings long-buried ghosts to the surface. As Ender’s past returns in a violent way, he finds an unexpected anchor in Cyrus and Killian—leading to a connection far deeper than any of them anticipated. Now navigating a high-risk pregnancy alongside crippling paranoia, Ender must maintain control of his organization while his mates face their own demons. Between the consequences of Cyrus’s past choices and the relentless pursuit by Killian’s family, the stakes have never been higher.
When a dark connection between Cyrus’ lineage and Ender’s tragic history comes to light, the trio is forced to decide: will they let the past tear them apart, or will they fight to protect what they’ve built? This is an intense, emotional beginning to Ender, Cyrus, and Killian's journey, and I am counting down the days for Part 2.
February 3, 2026
Great addition to the series!
I loved Calming a Gorgon by Shelby Rhodes. It's the second book in the Cryptid Enforcement Bureau. I loved the first book in Cyrus, Ender, and Killian's story and I can't wait to find out what happens and I don't know how I'm going to wait until the next book comes out in June, although the title of the next book does give me hope that Ender will get back Cyrus and Killian, hopefully before Ender's eggs hatch. The book was super long but it was so worth reading. One of my favorite scenes was Ender in his Gorgon form rampaging with a chicken on his head while yelling at his flock of chicken to attack everyone, which they did!
I read this book using the Kindle unlimited app.
I loved Calming a Gorgon by Shelby Rhodes. It's the second book in the Cryptid Enforcement Bureau. I loved the first book in Cyrus, Ender, and Killian's story and I can't wait to find out what happens and I don't know how I'm going to wait until the next book comes out in June, although the title of the next book does give me hope that Ender will get back Cyrus and Killian, hopefully before Ender's eggs hatch. The book was super long but it was so worth reading. One of my favorite scenes was Ender in his Gorgon form rampaging with a chicken on his head while yelling at his flock of chicken to attack everyone, which they did!
I read this book using the Kindle unlimited app.
February 5, 2026
WOW! Okay where to even start lol. Loving the Universe and couldn't wait to see how these 3 very different men connect. Killian and Cyrus might have been together longer but the way Ender ties in feels natural and flows. I don't want to say too much because of spoilers (that we love from Shelby!) but this is a epic story of fun moments, danger, emotional struggles and great connections. Got to see some old favorites and new characters you want to see more of. What a great way to end this one and leave you wanting the next.
February 1, 2026
Great continuation of the series
I absolutely love this world and the author's writing style.
Ender, Cyrus, and Killian are all oh so very different people.
It was wonderful to see them build their relationship once they got out of their own way.
There's lots of fast-paced action, drama, and plenty of hilarity.
I absolutely love this world and the author's writing style.
Ender, Cyrus, and Killian are all oh so very different people.
It was wonderful to see them build their relationship once they got out of their own way.
There's lots of fast-paced action, drama, and plenty of hilarity.
February 6, 2026
I adore Shelby's writing style. I get right into the quirky heads of her characters. I am really attached to Ender and his men. And his Eggs to come! This is a beautifully long book which gives you so much detail and keeps you immersed in the characters. I am so invested but be warned cliff hanger! I cannot wait for more chickens and eggs!
January 30, 2026
I can’t say I wasn’t warned! The author is very clear in the description this ends on a cliffhanger! So it’s my own fault for not checking to see the publication date on the next book in the series, but June??? OH NOOOOOOO
February 1, 2026
It was an uphill battle for Ender to trust Cyrus and Killian but the payoff was worth it. Unwanted urges led to love and an unexpected family for Ender and I enjoyed every moment of his journey, it is a fantastic addition to the C.E.B series.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
February 7, 2026
Great Addition to Series
I couldn't put the book down and finished in one sitting. I'm totally invested in the MCs, supporting characters and found family. I definitely want more Zenny and Skya. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I couldn't put the book down and finished in one sitting. I'm totally invested in the MCs, supporting characters and found family. I definitely want more Zenny and Skya. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 3, 2026
a great book to read
February 13, 2026
I LOVED THESE 3 SO MUCH!!
I liked the way this author told their story. I really enjoyed this emotional and just plain good read. This is an ARC review.
I liked the way this author told their story. I really enjoyed this emotional and just plain good read. This is an ARC review.
March 8, 2026
I loved Calming a Gorgon and struggled to put it down. The story and characters are amazing and I enjoyed reading it.
February 6, 2026
Absolutely Brilliant
OH....... WOW....... Calming a Gorgon by Shelby Rhodes is Absolutely Brilliant was hooked from the start in this beautiful paranormal world with all these amazing characters love Ender, Killian and Cyrus together it's wonderful to see how their relationship slowly builds up into a very special connection it's emotional and fun ends on a cliff hanger I can't wait for next one recommend so much.
OH....... WOW....... Calming a Gorgon by Shelby Rhodes is Absolutely Brilliant was hooked from the start in this beautiful paranormal world with all these amazing characters love Ender, Killian and Cyrus together it's wonderful to see how their relationship slowly builds up into a very special connection it's emotional and fun ends on a cliff hanger I can't wait for next one recommend so much.
April 2, 2026
OMG OMG
Shelby is not a nice author person right now.
I HATE cliff hangers!
Great story otherwise.
Dud I mention I HATE cliffhangers!!!!
Shelby is not a nice author person right now.
I HATE cliff hangers!
Great story otherwise.
Dud I mention I HATE cliffhangers!!!!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews