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Be My Bad Guy
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jan 26Damsel? Check. In distress? Check. Dealing with it? Kinda.
Lacey Vigil has been trying to break up with her city’s resident billionaire superhero, Steel Heel, for a while. It’s not easy when she keeps getting kidnapped by his enemies. When her ex is late to the rescue, an evil henchmen swoops in to save her instead (he only drops her once). Lacey might have expected the scary blue mutant with wings and a tail, but not his ice coffee addiction or fanged, devil-may-care smile.
Ellis is an unethical lab experiment, a bit of a slacker, and honestly kind of a fuckboy. It wasn’t his idea to join the family business, but he wants to see his dad’s work restored to him. He’s always had a thing for the reporter from Channel 6, but when Lacey asks for his help investigating where the mutants are coming from, he refuses. Despite thirsting over the magnitude of her ass, he knows she just wants him for information. They’re on opposing sides – whoever heard of a superhero’s girlfriend and supervillain’s henchman working together?
Lacey and Ellis keep tangling in everything from breaking into secret laboratories, to surprise bagel dates, to a balcony strip tease. The closer they become, the less they can avoid the wedge between them– Steel Heel. Ellis sees the way living at the top of Steel’s tower shapes Lacey’s worldview, her people-pleasing complacency in the status quo, even when it means ignoring the shitty ways her ex treats her.
Ellis urges Lacey to stand up for herself and finally leave her superhero ex on her own terms. Everything Lacey learns about Ellis makes her question what she thought she knew about the mutant crisis— it contradicts her ex’s narrative. Lacey wants to believe Ellis is genuine in his feelings for her, but she’s not sure if she can trust her heart.
BE MY BAD GUY is a spicy M/F monster romance with a typical superhero comic book backdrop, with 68,000 words.
Lacey Vigil has been trying to break up with her city’s resident billionaire superhero, Steel Heel, for a while. It’s not easy when she keeps getting kidnapped by his enemies. When her ex is late to the rescue, an evil henchmen swoops in to save her instead (he only drops her once). Lacey might have expected the scary blue mutant with wings and a tail, but not his ice coffee addiction or fanged, devil-may-care smile.
Ellis is an unethical lab experiment, a bit of a slacker, and honestly kind of a fuckboy. It wasn’t his idea to join the family business, but he wants to see his dad’s work restored to him. He’s always had a thing for the reporter from Channel 6, but when Lacey asks for his help investigating where the mutants are coming from, he refuses. Despite thirsting over the magnitude of her ass, he knows she just wants him for information. They’re on opposing sides – whoever heard of a superhero’s girlfriend and supervillain’s henchman working together?
Lacey and Ellis keep tangling in everything from breaking into secret laboratories, to surprise bagel dates, to a balcony strip tease. The closer they become, the less they can avoid the wedge between them– Steel Heel. Ellis sees the way living at the top of Steel’s tower shapes Lacey’s worldview, her people-pleasing complacency in the status quo, even when it means ignoring the shitty ways her ex treats her.
Ellis urges Lacey to stand up for herself and finally leave her superhero ex on her own terms. Everything Lacey learns about Ellis makes her question what she thought she knew about the mutant crisis— it contradicts her ex’s narrative. Lacey wants to believe Ellis is genuine in his feelings for her, but she’s not sure if she can trust her heart.
BE MY BAD GUY is a spicy M/F monster romance with a typical superhero comic book backdrop, with 68,000 words.
- GenresRomance
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 20, 2026
4 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
About the author
Kate Prior
14 books442 followers#Romance author, illustrator, hermit. 💕💜💙 My office monster romances are on KU.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 1, 2025
Cute, clever, h0rny, and funny, this turns the superhero trope on its head, à la The B0ys.
Television weather personality Lacey’s megalomaniacal ex-BF still thinks she should continue to be his plus one to public events as well as do his bidding, all while he pops into her apartment unannounced and unwanted. Also, the so-called mutants he’s been fighting have been kidnapping her and they all seem to perish at their own hand as soon as her ex comes to her rescue.
Lab-created by a kindly and now-frail scientist, Ellis meets his celebrity crush Lacey after thirsting after her online when he and his lab-created brother kidnap her to mess with the “hero”. Neither are prepared for the sparks that fly between them, and Ellis continues to find ways to run into Lacey.
While Ellis’s feelings are reciprocated, Lacey still has ambivalence about her ex, and she’s adamant about not dating a “bad guy”. Of course nothing is as it seems with regard to the kidnapping/mutants situation, and a wild ride comes to a wilder end… but is it over?
I received an advance reader copy from the author and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Television weather personality Lacey’s megalomaniacal ex-BF still thinks she should continue to be his plus one to public events as well as do his bidding, all while he pops into her apartment unannounced and unwanted. Also, the so-called mutants he’s been fighting have been kidnapping her and they all seem to perish at their own hand as soon as her ex comes to her rescue.
Lab-created by a kindly and now-frail scientist, Ellis meets his celebrity crush Lacey after thirsting after her online when he and his lab-created brother kidnap her to mess with the “hero”. Neither are prepared for the sparks that fly between them, and Ellis continues to find ways to run into Lacey.
While Ellis’s feelings are reciprocated, Lacey still has ambivalence about her ex, and she’s adamant about not dating a “bad guy”. Of course nothing is as it seems with regard to the kidnapping/mutants situation, and a wild ride comes to a wilder end… but is it over?
I received an advance reader copy from the author and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
January 7, 2026
Not what I was expecting, but still so good.
Why don’t more henchgoons have romances? Henchgoons deserve love too! I loved Ellis. I loved him so much. He was hilarious and so NOT smooth, 20/10 MMC right there. He was also inherently *good* he’s a good guy! It would be near impossible not to fall for him.
Lacey was career focused, but never quite tipped over into tunnel vision so she remained likable and someone I was rooting for. Ellis was so over the moon for her it was easy to love her too.
I could not personally relate to the struggles Lacey had with her ex, but they made me furious on page so I’m going to believe that the gaslighting/abusive ex was a decently accurate portrayal.
I greatly enjoyed this book and am thankful to have been part of the early readers! Kate Prior is always an auto-buy author for me, and this was a shining example as to why.
Why don’t more henchgoons have romances? Henchgoons deserve love too! I loved Ellis. I loved him so much. He was hilarious and so NOT smooth, 20/10 MMC right there. He was also inherently *good* he’s a good guy! It would be near impossible not to fall for him.
Lacey was career focused, but never quite tipped over into tunnel vision so she remained likable and someone I was rooting for. Ellis was so over the moon for her it was easy to love her too.
I could not personally relate to the struggles Lacey had with her ex, but they made me furious on page so I’m going to believe that the gaslighting/abusive ex was a decently accurate portrayal.
I greatly enjoyed this book and am thankful to have been part of the early readers! Kate Prior is always an auto-buy author for me, and this was a shining example as to why.
Review of advance copy received from Author
i received a digital copy of this book as an advanced reader copy (ARC). i have not received any compensation or incentives to influence my review on this, or any other, platform.
ok yes, i knew exactly what was going to happen but i still wanted to find out! 4.7/5 stars
potential triggers: emotional abuse/manipulation, domestic violence, impending parental death, mild on-page gore, alcohol use, graphic on-page monster/human sex, mild voyeurism
was it entertaining?
lacey is all the best and worst parts of the perpetually likeable girl next door and exactly who you would expect to see with the boy next door. she's cute, she's funny, she's gainfully employed, and she has the prototypical "clean girl" apartment. her boyfriend is, in fact, the boy next door...if the boy next door had the financial resources of lex luthor. ellis is not the boy next door. i cannot stress this enough. he is the son, and henchman, of the bad guy. you are not supposed to like him nor should you be rooting for his long-standing, one-sided crush on tv reporter, lacey. he's practically a stalker and he does crimes against her boyfriend! and yet...
despite seeing the twist coming from a mile away, yes. it was so much fun to read! i wouldn't call it insta-love, but it's a great lesson in why unrequited crushes almost never work out well. our MMC spends so much time building up the image of the FMC in his head, that it's almost heartbreaking to watch him realize that she's literally just a girl. lacey, beautiful and funny though she is, is still just a person who has her own trauma and backstory (which we, the readers, don't get very much of) that leads her to make incredibly questionable and frustrating choices over, and over, and over again.
this is not a trope forward book (and thank g-d for that). they're certainly present, but not enough to make me want to list them out in a review. this is a book with an actual plot to recommend it. and character development, which felt ever so slightly rushed towards the end, but that's my biggest fixable complaint. and it's really minor. as an aside, i am desperately holding out hope that the MMC's brother and the FMC's best friend have a story of their own coming at some point. they literally never interact on-page, but i'm delusional and i think they're perfect for each other. 4/5 stars
was it enjoyable?
oh god, yes. it took me a minute to get into it but that's a me problem. the story moves at a respectable clip and things start happening almost immediately. at no point did i feel like i was hurtling towards a conclusion, nor did it feel like there was a minimum page count to meet. i was fully invested in everyone, from start to finish. but, i will admit to cussing at lacey in my head. repeatedly. and ellis a little bit.
this is not because lacey is 19 and prone to life-threatening idiocy. this is because lacey is 26 and prone to rage-inducing bouts of obstinance and idiocy. she just...does stuff. and i'm not blaming the author for my frustration, but if you regularly find yourself getting mad at characters for doing stuff that you would never do, that's something to mentally prepare for. i'm not taking any points away for this, because it's entirely internal, but i did struggle with her decision making at times. even worse, lacey is entirely self-aware and she KNOWS that she's being dumb!!!!
if you’re someone who cares about on-page sex, it is present. it’s not gratuitous or especially plentiful, but there are 2 extended scenes, a semi-public striptease, and some moderate ogling from both MCs. 5/5 stars
was it well-written?
no notes, carry on. 5/5 stars
ok yes, i knew exactly what was going to happen but i still wanted to find out! 4.7/5 stars
potential triggers: emotional abuse/manipulation, domestic violence, impending parental death, mild on-page gore, alcohol use, graphic on-page monster/human sex, mild voyeurism
was it entertaining?
lacey is all the best and worst parts of the perpetually likeable girl next door and exactly who you would expect to see with the boy next door. she's cute, she's funny, she's gainfully employed, and she has the prototypical "clean girl" apartment. her boyfriend is, in fact, the boy next door...if the boy next door had the financial resources of lex luthor. ellis is not the boy next door. i cannot stress this enough. he is the son, and henchman, of the bad guy. you are not supposed to like him nor should you be rooting for his long-standing, one-sided crush on tv reporter, lacey. he's practically a stalker and he does crimes against her boyfriend! and yet...
despite seeing the twist coming from a mile away, yes. it was so much fun to read! i wouldn't call it insta-love, but it's a great lesson in why unrequited crushes almost never work out well. our MMC spends so much time building up the image of the FMC in his head, that it's almost heartbreaking to watch him realize that she's literally just a girl. lacey, beautiful and funny though she is, is still just a person who has her own trauma and backstory (which we, the readers, don't get very much of) that leads her to make incredibly questionable and frustrating choices over, and over, and over again.
this is not a trope forward book (and thank g-d for that). they're certainly present, but not enough to make me want to list them out in a review. this is a book with an actual plot to recommend it. and character development, which felt ever so slightly rushed towards the end, but that's my biggest fixable complaint. and it's really minor. as an aside, i am desperately holding out hope that the MMC's brother and the FMC's best friend have a story of their own coming at some point. they literally never interact on-page, but i'm delusional and i think they're perfect for each other. 4/5 stars
was it enjoyable?
oh god, yes. it took me a minute to get into it but that's a me problem. the story moves at a respectable clip and things start happening almost immediately. at no point did i feel like i was hurtling towards a conclusion, nor did it feel like there was a minimum page count to meet. i was fully invested in everyone, from start to finish. but, i will admit to cussing at lacey in my head. repeatedly. and ellis a little bit.
this is not because lacey is 19 and prone to life-threatening idiocy. this is because lacey is 26 and prone to rage-inducing bouts of obstinance and idiocy. she just...does stuff. and i'm not blaming the author for my frustration, but if you regularly find yourself getting mad at characters for doing stuff that you would never do, that's something to mentally prepare for. i'm not taking any points away for this, because it's entirely internal, but i did struggle with her decision making at times. even worse, lacey is entirely self-aware and she KNOWS that she's being dumb!!!!
if you’re someone who cares about on-page sex, it is present. it’s not gratuitous or especially plentiful, but there are 2 extended scenes, a semi-public striptease, and some moderate ogling from both MCs. 5/5 stars
was it well-written?
no notes, carry on. 5/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐🦇
You ever watch superhero movies and think "damn I want the bad guy to get the girl"? well then, here we go!
Lacey is the local weather girl for Channel 6 News. During the day she's either on camera doing her reports or working on her conspiracy board trying to figure out the cause of the city's recent mutant problem. At night, more often than she'd personally like, she's getting kidnapped by said mutants. Being the (ex) girlfriend of a superhero definitely has its drawbacks. Besides the kidnapping thing there's also the whole "he's super invasive and doesn't respect her boundaries and has not let her officially leave the relationship in the 5 months since she brought it up the first time" thing.
Ellis is a "bad guy" by all basic standards. Being the henchman for Steel Heel's arch nemesis, Maestro, doesn't leave a lot of room for interpretation on his morals. Being a mutant is just icing on the cake. Having a crush on her for an extended amount of time maaaayyyyy have had a little impact on Ellis's ability to perform his job when he and his brother have to kidnap Lacey as a set up to get her boyfriend's attention. The plan goes a little wonky and Ellis ends up saving Lacey from an explosion, instead of Steel Heel swooping in to save the day. This split second decision changes the future for everyone involved and none of them have any idea it's going to happen.
Sometimes things aren't what they seem. The good guy with the flashy suit may just be worse than the bad guy with the blue skin, tail, and wings. "Maybe it's perfectly reasonable to want to tear the pants off a guy that saves you. Even if he is blue and a little demonic looking." 💁 Yes Lacey, maybe, just maybe 😂😍 I really enjoyed so many things about this. It was funny, it was spicy, there was mystery solving (though to be fair everyone figures it out before Lacey 😂😂😂), and there were important lessons sprinkled throughout as gentle reminders that it's ok to take up space and we can do the hard things and avoiding conflict does nothing but shrink yourself into something(someone) you won't recognize or want to be. That love should feel good and not leave you feeling like you're asking too much just to be heard and seen. 🖤
You ever watch superhero movies and think "damn I want the bad guy to get the girl"? well then, here we go!
Lacey is the local weather girl for Channel 6 News. During the day she's either on camera doing her reports or working on her conspiracy board trying to figure out the cause of the city's recent mutant problem. At night, more often than she'd personally like, she's getting kidnapped by said mutants. Being the (ex) girlfriend of a superhero definitely has its drawbacks. Besides the kidnapping thing there's also the whole "he's super invasive and doesn't respect her boundaries and has not let her officially leave the relationship in the 5 months since she brought it up the first time" thing.
Ellis is a "bad guy" by all basic standards. Being the henchman for Steel Heel's arch nemesis, Maestro, doesn't leave a lot of room for interpretation on his morals. Being a mutant is just icing on the cake. Having a crush on her for an extended amount of time maaaayyyyy have had a little impact on Ellis's ability to perform his job when he and his brother have to kidnap Lacey as a set up to get her boyfriend's attention. The plan goes a little wonky and Ellis ends up saving Lacey from an explosion, instead of Steel Heel swooping in to save the day. This split second decision changes the future for everyone involved and none of them have any idea it's going to happen.
Sometimes things aren't what they seem. The good guy with the flashy suit may just be worse than the bad guy with the blue skin, tail, and wings. "Maybe it's perfectly reasonable to want to tear the pants off a guy that saves you. Even if he is blue and a little demonic looking." 💁 Yes Lacey, maybe, just maybe 😂😍 I really enjoyed so many things about this. It was funny, it was spicy, there was mystery solving (though to be fair everyone figures it out before Lacey 😂😂😂), and there were important lessons sprinkled throughout as gentle reminders that it's ok to take up space and we can do the hard things and avoiding conflict does nothing but shrink yourself into something(someone) you won't recognize or want to be. That love should feel good and not leave you feeling like you're asking too much just to be heard and seen. 🖤
December 6, 2025
✨ARC BOOK REVIEW✨Be My Bad Guy by Katie Prior
Rating: 🔉🔉🔉🔉
This was a really cute monster romance with some insta lust/love. The beginning was a little confusing but I caught on and it makes sense a few pages later. I figured out the plot twist pretty early, but I was still entertained. Lacey and Ellis have some good banter. I wish it was a tad longer as it felt a bit rushed at different points. I hope Adrianna gets her own book. This book is like a mix of Megamind, Superman, Gargoyles, and X-men.
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Lacey Vigil has been trying to break up with her city’s resident billionaire superhero, Steel Heel, for a while. It’s not easy when she keeps getting kidnapped by his enemies. When her ex is late to the rescue, an evil henchmen swoops in to save her instead (he only drops her once). Lacey might have expected the scary blue mutant with wings and a tail, but not his ice coffee addiction or fanged, devil-may-care smile.
Lacey and Ellis keep tangling in everything from breaking into secret laboratories, to surprise bagel dates, to a balcony strip tease. The closer they become, the less they can avoid the wedge between them– Steel Heel. Ellis sees the way living at the top of Steel’s tower shapes Lacey’s worldview, her people-pleasing complacency in the status quo, even when it means ignoring the shitty ways her ex treats her.
Release Date: January 20, 2026
✨My Rating System✨
🔉🔉🔉🔉 🔉- Hit all the vibes
🔉🔉🔉🔉 - Hit some good vibes
🔉🔉🔉 - I vibed
🔉🔉 - The vibes were meh
🔉 - Barely found a vibe
DNF - Zero vibes
My rating system does not equate to the quality of the books, therefore, you’re still on your own. It’s legit just about how I vibed with the book at the time.
Rating: 🔉🔉🔉🔉
This was a really cute monster romance with some insta lust/love. The beginning was a little confusing but I caught on and it makes sense a few pages later. I figured out the plot twist pretty early, but I was still entertained. Lacey and Ellis have some good banter. I wish it was a tad longer as it felt a bit rushed at different points. I hope Adrianna gets her own book. This book is like a mix of Megamind, Superman, Gargoyles, and X-men.
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Lacey Vigil has been trying to break up with her city’s resident billionaire superhero, Steel Heel, for a while. It’s not easy when she keeps getting kidnapped by his enemies. When her ex is late to the rescue, an evil henchmen swoops in to save her instead (he only drops her once). Lacey might have expected the scary blue mutant with wings and a tail, but not his ice coffee addiction or fanged, devil-may-care smile.
Lacey and Ellis keep tangling in everything from breaking into secret laboratories, to surprise bagel dates, to a balcony strip tease. The closer they become, the less they can avoid the wedge between them– Steel Heel. Ellis sees the way living at the top of Steel’s tower shapes Lacey’s worldview, her people-pleasing complacency in the status quo, even when it means ignoring the shitty ways her ex treats her.
Release Date: January 20, 2026
✨My Rating System✨
🔉🔉🔉🔉 🔉- Hit all the vibes
🔉🔉🔉🔉 - Hit some good vibes
🔉🔉🔉 - I vibed
🔉🔉 - The vibes were meh
🔉 - Barely found a vibe
DNF - Zero vibes
My rating system does not equate to the quality of the books, therefore, you’re still on your own. It’s legit just about how I vibed with the book at the time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This being my first foray into monster romance, Be My Bad Guy really knocked it out of the park for me with incredibly natural world building, relatable characters, gripping thrills and meet cutes in questionable places.
Lacey Vigil, meteorologist for the city of Goethal, is investigating the ooze that has appeared in the city's streets and water ways when she, once again, is kidnapped by her ex-boyfriend's rival's goons. It's always the same - tied up and blindfolded until her ex, super hero Steel Heel, must come and save her and keep the citizens focused on hope while the city is slammed with mutant attacks and ooze no one can answer for.
Except this time, her strange blue captor is her savior in more ways than one, awakening a curiosity and fight to take back her life and self-assurance. It's hard to be a single baddy on a mission when Goethal's most influential billionaire super wants to keep her for himself.
Follow Lacey and "Bat-Thing" Ellis (he hates this moniker) as they unravel the city's mysteries, sneak around in sticky situations, navigate the meaning of "good" and "bad", and flirt un-sanctimoniously at every chance they can. It's a sweet and juicy combo of great writing and lovable (and hate-able) characters just trying to figure it out in a world of greed, crazed mutants, great breakfast sandwiches and prehensile tails.
Kate's upcoming book is a can't miss for folks that love a misunderstood outcast, women empowerment, pertinent social critiques, funny quips, and cozy mysteries with a handful of spice. Check out her entire collection for more great reads!
Thank you to the author for giving me access to an early digital copy to read and review.
Lacey Vigil, meteorologist for the city of Goethal, is investigating the ooze that has appeared in the city's streets and water ways when she, once again, is kidnapped by her ex-boyfriend's rival's goons. It's always the same - tied up and blindfolded until her ex, super hero Steel Heel, must come and save her and keep the citizens focused on hope while the city is slammed with mutant attacks and ooze no one can answer for.
Except this time, her strange blue captor is her savior in more ways than one, awakening a curiosity and fight to take back her life and self-assurance. It's hard to be a single baddy on a mission when Goethal's most influential billionaire super wants to keep her for himself.
Follow Lacey and "Bat-Thing" Ellis (he hates this moniker) as they unravel the city's mysteries, sneak around in sticky situations, navigate the meaning of "good" and "bad", and flirt un-sanctimoniously at every chance they can. It's a sweet and juicy combo of great writing and lovable (and hate-able) characters just trying to figure it out in a world of greed, crazed mutants, great breakfast sandwiches and prehensile tails.
Kate's upcoming book is a can't miss for folks that love a misunderstood outcast, women empowerment, pertinent social critiques, funny quips, and cozy mysteries with a handful of spice. Check out her entire collection for more great reads!
Thank you to the author for giving me access to an early digital copy to read and review.
December 1, 2025
This was so much fun and laugh out loud hilarious. Ellis is an experiment gone wrong (or right), made in a lab of a supposedly mad scientist--he has wings, a tail, and claws. And yes, his tail is *sensitive*.
Lacey is a weather reporter and a constant damsel in distress due to her past relationship with the city's "superhero." I use the term superhero lightly because Clayton is the definition of toxic. She's a people pleaser to her constant detriment, and is letting Clayton pretend their still dating until the 'news cycle is in the right place.' She's also still living in his building and he has zero boundaries. This becomes a major issue as she starts falling in love with Ellis (they start falling in love after he kidnaps her lol). There is a fun mystery plot where Lacey is investigating where new mutants keep coming from that drives the pace of the book.
The banter in this is top tier and Ellis has the best sense of humor. He's also so down bad for Lacey from the jump. He's been crushing on her from afar when he watches her weather reports on Channel 6, but once they meet he's a goner. If you're familiar with the way Shoresy pines for Laura Mohr, that's what I'm talking about.
HOWEVER, I love that he knows he deserves all of Lacey, not just Clayton's leftovers (to be clear there is no cheating, it's just how it looks from the outside). There's a lot in this book about self worth and demanding more for yourself.
And finally, the spice. I love a monster romance, and this author never disappoints. If there's a tail, you better believe it gets involved. I loved this book and hope there are more set in this world (Vin!!)
Lacey is a weather reporter and a constant damsel in distress due to her past relationship with the city's "superhero." I use the term superhero lightly because Clayton is the definition of toxic. She's a people pleaser to her constant detriment, and is letting Clayton pretend their still dating until the 'news cycle is in the right place.' She's also still living in his building and he has zero boundaries. This becomes a major issue as she starts falling in love with Ellis (they start falling in love after he kidnaps her lol). There is a fun mystery plot where Lacey is investigating where new mutants keep coming from that drives the pace of the book.
The banter in this is top tier and Ellis has the best sense of humor. He's also so down bad for Lacey from the jump. He's been crushing on her from afar when he watches her weather reports on Channel 6, but once they meet he's a goner. If you're familiar with the way Shoresy pines for Laura Mohr, that's what I'm talking about.
HOWEVER, I love that he knows he deserves all of Lacey, not just Clayton's leftovers (to be clear there is no cheating, it's just how it looks from the outside). There's a lot in this book about self worth and demanding more for yourself.
And finally, the spice. I love a monster romance, and this author never disappoints. If there's a tail, you better believe it gets involved. I loved this book and hope there are more set in this world (Vin!!)
November 30, 2025
This was going to be a 3 star review, but the last 20% of the book brought me up to 4!
This felt like a parody cross between Batman’s Gotham and the Superman story. The FMC is constantly getting rescued by Steel Heel (ex-bf, kinda) who is fighting mutants to save the city. But then she winds up getting rescued by one of her kidnappers, a mutant who has been crushing on her for a long time. As a tv news reporter, she’s trying to find out the cause for the oozy goo showing up everywhere and eventually winds up stumbling onto something much bigger (with her bad guy’s help) and eventually realizes that maybe Steel Heel isn’t as perfect as everyone thinks.
Most of this story gave more comedic/cozy vibes than I was expecting, but the last 20% was much more action packed and those twists I ended up enjoying! There wasn’t anything wrong with this book, but I personally didn’t really feel the romantic connection between the two MC’s and the dialogue just wasn’t grabbing me. Also, the FMC wasn’t my preferred type as she lacked a backbone and did not stand up for herself when it came to her controlling ex-bf, but she did change a little at the end of the book. It did have a couple really good spicy scenes (he’s a mutant so not equipped the same as a normal guy & he has wings and a tail!). So pros and cons. I did think it was fun to see Superman/Batman style story turned into a monster romance parody.
Spice Level: 3/5.
Thank you to author Kate Prior for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This felt like a parody cross between Batman’s Gotham and the Superman story. The FMC is constantly getting rescued by Steel Heel (ex-bf, kinda) who is fighting mutants to save the city. But then she winds up getting rescued by one of her kidnappers, a mutant who has been crushing on her for a long time. As a tv news reporter, she’s trying to find out the cause for the oozy goo showing up everywhere and eventually winds up stumbling onto something much bigger (with her bad guy’s help) and eventually realizes that maybe Steel Heel isn’t as perfect as everyone thinks.
Most of this story gave more comedic/cozy vibes than I was expecting, but the last 20% was much more action packed and those twists I ended up enjoying! There wasn’t anything wrong with this book, but I personally didn’t really feel the romantic connection between the two MC’s and the dialogue just wasn’t grabbing me. Also, the FMC wasn’t my preferred type as she lacked a backbone and did not stand up for herself when it came to her controlling ex-bf, but she did change a little at the end of the book. It did have a couple really good spicy scenes (he’s a mutant so not equipped the same as a normal guy & he has wings and a tail!). So pros and cons. I did think it was fun to see Superman/Batman style story turned into a monster romance parody.
Spice Level: 3/5.
Thank you to author Kate Prior for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Henchmen falling in love with the girl. What’s not to like about that. I will split the review into two sections the parts I really liked and the parts I found could have been fleshed out.
I like the idea of a henchmen getting the girl. I like that I can see superhero influences in the characters and settings, I like that her being kidnapped is like a weekly occurrence with her and she’s very used to it. . Lacey is charming, I like that Ellis being non human isn’t ever seen as negative or he faces discrimination. I do like that Ellis and Vin weren’t just “evil” that Maestro actually seemed to care for them as sons. Lacey actually having a personality and flaws- especially considering how much Heel consumes f her life. Showing not just a bad power dynamic but also shows the reader an abusive relationship and more importantly how she had the courage and support to leave and be with a person who cared for her.
I do wish we got more about Dr Maestro especially as we didn’t get a lot of interaction between Maestro and Ellis and Vin. I would have like to see more about his supposed rivalry with Clayton, I felt their falling in love was a bit rushed- despite Ellis having a crush on her prior to the events of the book. These things most likely will be fleshed out in later books.
Between the setting and characters this book is charming and fast paced. And I am happy to read more of these characters later.
I like the idea of a henchmen getting the girl. I like that I can see superhero influences in the characters and settings, I like that her being kidnapped is like a weekly occurrence with her and she’s very used to it. . Lacey is charming, I like that Ellis being non human isn’t ever seen as negative or he faces discrimination. I do like that Ellis and Vin weren’t just “evil” that Maestro actually seemed to care for them as sons. Lacey actually having a personality and flaws- especially considering how much Heel consumes f her life. Showing not just a bad power dynamic but also shows the reader an abusive relationship and more importantly how she had the courage and support to leave and be with a person who cared for her.
I do wish we got more about Dr Maestro especially as we didn’t get a lot of interaction between Maestro and Ellis and Vin. I would have like to see more about his supposed rivalry with Clayton, I felt their falling in love was a bit rushed- despite Ellis having a crush on her prior to the events of the book. These things most likely will be fleshed out in later books.
Between the setting and characters this book is charming and fast paced. And I am happy to read more of these characters later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If we're reading a monster romance, high chances are that it's by Kate Prior. She manages to combine hot, bonkers monster stuff with really great topical commentary.
This one features Ellis, one of Dr. Maestro's mutant henchmen, and hot TV meteorologist (who also happens to be superhero Steel Heel's ex) Lacey. (Do we really need to know who Dr. Maestro and Steel Heel are to understand the relationship here? Obviously not.)
Ellis is very "Goliath from Gladiators" coded: he's blue, has bat wings, fangs, and a pointy tail. When he kidnaps Lacey as a part of his day job, he ends up rescuing her when Steel Heel gets there too late. And that starts them off on a relationship, as Lacey realizes that Ellis takes her more seriously than Heel ever has. They start investigating the ooze creating mutants together, which leads to closer proximity, which leads to ... uhhh ... more. (Like, a lot more ooze, if you're picking up what I'm laying down.)
At the same time, gazillionaire Steel Heel isn't taking the breakup well. This part could be tough for some readers, as Lacey begins to understand through her relationship with Ellis that she's been in a toxic situation with Heel for years. The superhero commentary is on point, and this really sexy monster romance is also really sweet. (Ellis is the most cinnamon roll evil henchman I've ever read.)
This is a great standalone, super fun and super hot.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
This one features Ellis, one of Dr. Maestro's mutant henchmen, and hot TV meteorologist (who also happens to be superhero Steel Heel's ex) Lacey. (Do we really need to know who Dr. Maestro and Steel Heel are to understand the relationship here? Obviously not.)
Ellis is very "Goliath from Gladiators" coded: he's blue, has bat wings, fangs, and a pointy tail. When he kidnaps Lacey as a part of his day job, he ends up rescuing her when Steel Heel gets there too late. And that starts them off on a relationship, as Lacey realizes that Ellis takes her more seriously than Heel ever has. They start investigating the ooze creating mutants together, which leads to closer proximity, which leads to ... uhhh ... more. (Like, a lot more ooze, if you're picking up what I'm laying down.)
At the same time, gazillionaire Steel Heel isn't taking the breakup well. This part could be tough for some readers, as Lacey begins to understand through her relationship with Ellis that she's been in a toxic situation with Heel for years. The superhero commentary is on point, and this really sexy monster romance is also really sweet. (Ellis is the most cinnamon roll evil henchman I've ever read.)
This is a great standalone, super fun and super hot.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
December 13, 2025
I got the chance to ARC read this book, and I was blown away by how much I loved reading this.
I laughed more times with this book than any books I have read in 2025. The romance between the two characters was super cute, and I absolutely adore Ellis. He’s definitely the “bad guy” you see in a story who isn’t actually all that bad, and is just a goofy, soft mutant that you love immediately from the beginning. His witty jokes always made me laugh.
The first chapter hit me with a slight twist because I wasn’t expecting the story to go that way (but I loved it because that little twist is what drew me into the story). I couldn’t put this book down from the moment I started it!
This is definitely a great book that has your typical hero/villain moments. It felt like a literal movie at times in my head. And the spice alone… had me kicking my feet.
I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for something that is cute, witty, has a bit of a mystery to solve, secrets, and great spice.
I laughed more times with this book than any books I have read in 2025. The romance between the two characters was super cute, and I absolutely adore Ellis. He’s definitely the “bad guy” you see in a story who isn’t actually all that bad, and is just a goofy, soft mutant that you love immediately from the beginning. His witty jokes always made me laugh.
The first chapter hit me with a slight twist because I wasn’t expecting the story to go that way (but I loved it because that little twist is what drew me into the story). I couldn’t put this book down from the moment I started it!
This is definitely a great book that has your typical hero/villain moments. It felt like a literal movie at times in my head. And the spice alone… had me kicking my feet.
I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for something that is cute, witty, has a bit of a mystery to solve, secrets, and great spice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
thank you to kate prior for the arc of this book!
it's been a while since I have written a review to bear with me. Be my Bad Guy follows weather reporter Lacey, girlfriend to the hero of the city and investigator on what is causing so many mutant attacks. Ellis is a henchman of the bad guy, who has a huge crush on Lacey, and when he has to kidnap her, there's no better time for him to attempt to win her heart.
This book, like all the authors previous work, is very fun. It takes the monster romance to a side that we know, in this case, superheroes, and answers the question of what would happen If the bad guys weren't so bad?
I really liked the characters in this story and wanted them to succeed. Although I would say if you love other superhero stories the plot twist in this novella will not surprise you as much, I have to say the experience is truly enjoyable. The romance adds stakes to the already action packed story and you inevitably root for the main couple.
it's been a while since I have written a review to bear with me. Be my Bad Guy follows weather reporter Lacey, girlfriend to the hero of the city and investigator on what is causing so many mutant attacks. Ellis is a henchman of the bad guy, who has a huge crush on Lacey, and when he has to kidnap her, there's no better time for him to attempt to win her heart.
This book, like all the authors previous work, is very fun. It takes the monster romance to a side that we know, in this case, superheroes, and answers the question of what would happen If the bad guys weren't so bad?
I really liked the characters in this story and wanted them to succeed. Although I would say if you love other superhero stories the plot twist in this novella will not surprise you as much, I have to say the experience is truly enjoyable. The romance adds stakes to the already action packed story and you inevitably root for the main couple.
November 30, 2025
A monster romance where the billionaire doesn't get the girl? Sign me up!
This mixed a fun, almost cartoonish, story of flying monsters, superheroes and TV reporters with some much deeper themes.
Lacey's battle to overcome being a people pleaser and slow realisations about how she was being treated by her ex were top notch and beautifully treated.
I really enjoyed the commentary on capitalism, vigilantism and operating outside the law.
The resolution felt a little rushed and I wanted to see more about the bad guy getting his comeuppance. But I also appreciated the lovely reconnection between Lacey and Ellis.
Thank you Kate Prior for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This mixed a fun, almost cartoonish, story of flying monsters, superheroes and TV reporters with some much deeper themes.
Lacey's battle to overcome being a people pleaser and slow realisations about how she was being treated by her ex were top notch and beautifully treated.
I really enjoyed the commentary on capitalism, vigilantism and operating outside the law.
The resolution felt a little rushed and I wanted to see more about the bad guy getting his comeuppance. But I also appreciated the lovely reconnection between Lacey and Ellis.
Thank you Kate Prior for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 8, 2025
I really enjoyed how down bad Ellis was for Lacey! He is definitely one of my favorite MMC, the way he talks and thinks about Lacey makes me laugh so much.
Lacey being able to stand up for herself and
not letting people walk over her or her boundaries. I love how she’s able to have character development on learning to not be a people pleaser and realize she deserves to be treated better. I love how she’s able to want more for herself and be just be better.
I usually try to look at the “antagonist” in different ways as to why they are the way that they are. But Clayton had me clenching my kindle! I need to step away with how infuriating Clayton me me feel. Which just adds on why this book showcases Kate Prior’s writing skills
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️ level 3 spice, monster x human
Lacey being able to stand up for herself and
not letting people walk over her or her boundaries. I love how she’s able to have character development on learning to not be a people pleaser and realize she deserves to be treated better. I love how she’s able to want more for herself and be just be better.
I usually try to look at the “antagonist” in different ways as to why they are the way that they are. But Clayton had me clenching my kindle! I need to step away with how infuriating Clayton me me feel. Which just adds on why this book showcases Kate Prior’s writing skills
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️ level 3 spice, monster x human
December 5, 2025
I have to say this may be my favorite book from Kate yet! I was lucky enough to receive an ARC. I’ve been frothing at the mouth to dig in to this world so thank you Kate!!
First, Ellis was so precious I will defend him with my life. He was the winged Nightcrawler we all want with a soft heart and big ol’ mutant d*ck!! The characters had such great chemistry and the concept was really unique. I really really enjoyed this. I would honestly be thrilled if Kate decided to continue in this universe. Literally, go run and read this!
First, Ellis was so precious I will defend him with my life. He was the winged Nightcrawler we all want with a soft heart and big ol’ mutant d*ck!! The characters had such great chemistry and the concept was really unique. I really really enjoyed this. I would honestly be thrilled if Kate decided to continue in this universe. Literally, go run and read this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lacey is a weather girl turned reporter with a penchant for getting abducted. Ellis is a villain’s henchman with a monstrous crush. What started out as a way to get the inside scoop has quickly become something more. Soon enough, neither one can resist the temptation.
Omggg, I adore the himbo that Ellis is. I find Lacey surprisingly relatable for a superhero story too. There’s spice and yearning all wrapped up in one delicious bundle.
This one is definitely going to be a comfort read for me. 🙌🏻
Omggg, I adore the himbo that Ellis is. I find Lacey surprisingly relatable for a superhero story too. There’s spice and yearning all wrapped up in one delicious bundle.
This one is definitely going to be a comfort read for me. 🙌🏻
January 7, 2026
4.5 stars
This was great! It was cute, funny and fast paced, with a dosage of spice! I love Kate’s writing style, and this lived up to the highs of her other books, especially Love, Laugh, Lich and The Orc from the Office. I was laughing out loud throughout and the characters leapt off of the page.
I especially enjoyed Ellis’s character, the twists on the superhero genre, and the broader world that Kate created — looking forward to more books in the series (hopefully!).
Thank you to the author + book tunnel for the Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review 💕
This was great! It was cute, funny and fast paced, with a dosage of spice! I love Kate’s writing style, and this lived up to the highs of her other books, especially Love, Laugh, Lich and The Orc from the Office. I was laughing out loud throughout and the characters leapt off of the page.
I especially enjoyed Ellis’s character, the twists on the superhero genre, and the broader world that Kate created — looking forward to more books in the series (hopefully!).
Thank you to the author + book tunnel for the Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review 💕
December 5, 2025
I am so obsessed with this book. I loved the villain Ellisin this book from the first page and rooted for him over the normal bland hero. The plot development, showing the true hero the “bad” guy was, was on point. I loved the romance between the main Lacey and Ellis, and how their bond developed. I actually cheered through the whole story when she couldn’t resist the villain when she was supposed to be at the side of the “hero”. This book was humorous and fun!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2025
* I was given an ARC by the author for my honest opinion and review. Thanks to the author.*
This was a fun read. I did really enjoy the superhero/mutant story line but the romance was a bit of a let down. A lot happened quickly so the tension and build up of the romance just wasn’t there for me. The story did lag in the middle but overall a good time.
This was a fun read. I did really enjoy the superhero/mutant story line but the romance was a bit of a let down. A lot happened quickly so the tension and build up of the romance just wasn’t there for me. The story did lag in the middle but overall a good time.
December 5, 2025
This book is so great! I was blessed to receive an arc copy, and I am so glad I did!
The characters are wrote in such an easy follow manner, with beautiful moments of romance, a touch of mystery, and action.
Elis is such a fun mmc, despite being blue 😉
The characters are wrote in such an easy follow manner, with beautiful moments of romance, a touch of mystery, and action.
Elis is such a fun mmc, despite being blue 😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a gifted copy. This review is honest and voluntary.
I devoured this book! Absolutely loved it. Cute and humorous! What defines someone as bad and someone as good? I would rate this as a top read for 2025.
I devoured this book! Absolutely loved it. Cute and humorous! What defines someone as bad and someone as good? I would rate this as a top read for 2025.
January 6, 2026
Goofy, funny, hot, classic Kate Prior! Plot was a bit predictable, but what romance isn’t? I wanted more worldbuilding, though — there were some holes in the Maestro-Steel Heel beef that could’ve been developed more fully.
December 3, 2025
The book was stunning 😍 absolutely loved it! Loved the characters!
December 9, 2025
Kate Prior is the best at writing hopelessly dumb, golden retriever boys. Ellis is perfection.
The plot was a bit predictable but still so so sweet.
The plot was a bit predictable but still so so sweet.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so fun. Superheroes and a villain you were falling for. I love reading Kate’s monster romances. His tail was a nice little bonus 😂
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW (thanks Kate!)
Omg a himbo test tube baby monster! He’s so dumb he doesn’t even realize he’s a good guy! 🤣
Omg a himbo test tube baby monster! He’s so dumb he doesn’t even realize he’s a good guy! 🤣
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this ARC. It was a funny read while having a nice amount of monster smut. I had quite a few laughs.
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