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Monsters of Saltford Bay #4
Healed by the Grumpy Elf
I’m a school nurse. I can handle anything. Then Saltford Bay got a new elf doctor. He’s cold, allergic to smiling, and thinks I’m a chaos magnet. Also… he’s so hot it’s unfair. And if he kisses me like that again, I migth forget how much I hate him.
Dr. Lorian Reizenhart is tall, cold, and terminally allergic to smiling. He’s all sharp cheekbones, glowing blue eyes, and a glare that could sterilize a hospital wing. He thinks I talk too much, smile too easily, and get in the way of his perfectly ordered world. I think he’s the most insufferable man I’ve ever met.
One more thing I hate about he’s stupidly hot. Unfortunately.
Our first meeting ended with a room full of crying third graders and a flying carrot. So I taped a glittery crayon drawing to his cold, sterile office wall. Just to be petty.
Now, a Pixie-Pox outbreak has forced us to work side-by-side, and the tension is unbearable. He hates my chaos. I hate his control. So why did he kiss me like I’m the last woman on Earth… and then run like it never happened?
Worse, why do I keep looking for more?
I was ready for magical mayhem, not a slow-burn war with the town’s grumpiest doctor. But the closer we get, the more I behind his icy demeanor is something burning.
And I’m already melting.
Welcome to Saltford Bay, where monsters are real, neighbors are nosy, and true love comes with claws. Perfect for fans of Emily Antoinette, That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon, and Get a Life, Chloe Brown.
Each book in the Monsters of Saltford Bay series can be read as a standalone. This cozy and steamy small town romance story is low angst, funny and full of sexy, grumpy monsters with tusks and hearts of gold. Intended for mature readers.
Dr. Lorian Reizenhart is tall, cold, and terminally allergic to smiling. He’s all sharp cheekbones, glowing blue eyes, and a glare that could sterilize a hospital wing. He thinks I talk too much, smile too easily, and get in the way of his perfectly ordered world. I think he’s the most insufferable man I’ve ever met.
One more thing I hate about he’s stupidly hot. Unfortunately.
Our first meeting ended with a room full of crying third graders and a flying carrot. So I taped a glittery crayon drawing to his cold, sterile office wall. Just to be petty.
Now, a Pixie-Pox outbreak has forced us to work side-by-side, and the tension is unbearable. He hates my chaos. I hate his control. So why did he kiss me like I’m the last woman on Earth… and then run like it never happened?
Worse, why do I keep looking for more?
I was ready for magical mayhem, not a slow-burn war with the town’s grumpiest doctor. But the closer we get, the more I behind his icy demeanor is something burning.
And I’m already melting.
Welcome to Saltford Bay, where monsters are real, neighbors are nosy, and true love comes with claws. Perfect for fans of Emily Antoinette, That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon, and Get a Life, Chloe Brown.
Each book in the Monsters of Saltford Bay series can be read as a standalone. This cozy and steamy small town romance story is low angst, funny and full of sexy, grumpy monsters with tusks and hearts of gold. Intended for mature readers.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
About the author
Mary Auclair
30 books440 followersMary grew up in the quiet peace of a small rural village in the heart of Quebec, Canada.
She spent her childhood chasing butterflies and catching frogs, playing in the mud and generally being as unladylike as she could. Her love of science led her to complete a mechanical engineering degree at the Ecole Polytechnique of Montreal, where she met the love of her life.
Years later, as she enjoyed the role of full time mom to her two wonderful children, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a writer.
She now write as much as her busy schedule allows to bring to life her inner world, filled with exotic planets, mysterious creatures and off course, hot, alpha heroes and the women who melt their hearts.
When she's not writing, she can be found in the garden, walking her dogs or playing with fire in her kitchen as a part time hit-or-miss chef.
She spent her childhood chasing butterflies and catching frogs, playing in the mud and generally being as unladylike as she could. Her love of science led her to complete a mechanical engineering degree at the Ecole Polytechnique of Montreal, where she met the love of her life.
Years later, as she enjoyed the role of full time mom to her two wonderful children, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a writer.
She now write as much as her busy schedule allows to bring to life her inner world, filled with exotic planets, mysterious creatures and off course, hot, alpha heroes and the women who melt their hearts.
When she's not writing, she can be found in the garden, walking her dogs or playing with fire in her kitchen as a part time hit-or-miss chef.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 5, 2025
I enjoyed this one. It was fun.
This is a shorter novel, which is the kind of thing that I've been gravitating towards lately. It's lighthearted and has easy to follow plot and characters. Between being short and being easy to follow, this is exactly the kind of cozy romantasy read that should be read for relaxation when stressed, or perhaps before bed, since there isn't a possibility of upset.
On the one hand, this is one of those insta-love "true mate" books. On the other hand, you kind of expect that due to the length of the book. You can't really have short and slow burn at once. Although, there are a few bedroom scenes, and I suppose it would have been possible to have more romance and less sex. But that would be a different book. This one is less romance more sex.
There's also a lot of cute/twee children and funny illnesses for the elf to treat.
Thanks for the ARC.
This is a shorter novel, which is the kind of thing that I've been gravitating towards lately. It's lighthearted and has easy to follow plot and characters. Between being short and being easy to follow, this is exactly the kind of cozy romantasy read that should be read for relaxation when stressed, or perhaps before bed, since there isn't a possibility of upset.
On the one hand, this is one of those insta-love "true mate" books. On the other hand, you kind of expect that due to the length of the book. You can't really have short and slow burn at once. Although, there are a few bedroom scenes, and I suppose it would have been possible to have more romance and less sex. But that would be a different book. This one is less romance more sex.
There's also a lot of cute/twee children and funny illnesses for the elf to treat.
Thanks for the ARC.
October 5, 2025
This is another great book in the series. The FMC is a school nurse and the MMC is the town doctor. I was laughing out loud at the interactions between the students and the MC's. The monster version of chicken pox is so clever and I just loved the description of the symptoms. Such a cute and cozy story to read during the fall season. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2026
⭐ 2.75/5
Maeve + Lorian
Quotes:
• "A human woman stands by the doorway, and the moment I see her, something shifts in my perception. The cacophony of school sounds fades to background noise, and it’s like looking through a tunnel. All I can see is the woman."
• "I pause, somewhat annoyed at the interruption. But not annoyed at her attention. I want her to look at me, to speak to me. To lie under me. Stop. It."
• "Then she finally glances up and sees me. Something electric passes between us. Her green eyes widen slightly before returning to normal. And my own strange fascination is broken. It's broken, but I know what this means. All the symptoms are there. All the signs are as clear as in a textbook. This is a sickness and its name is True Mate; its end result will be the loss of my sanity."
• " I need to focus on charming her, making her see me as the ideal mate. This is how I will court my True Mate."
• "Maeve is my mate. My True Mate. The connection elven fairy tales talk about, the one I never even dared to hope for."
• "I know it’s not real. I know it’s just in my head, but it doesn’t matter. My True Mate, caring for me, is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. My skin tingles everywhere she touches, and I fight to keep my breathing even. She smells of soap and lavender, of soft and clean things. Her scent fills my senses, making me lightheaded."
• "The carefully prepared speech about the lily and my hopes for our future crumbles away, replaced by cold dread. My past has finally caught up with me, and this time, it isn't leaving quietly."
Maeve + Lorian
Quotes:
• "A human woman stands by the doorway, and the moment I see her, something shifts in my perception. The cacophony of school sounds fades to background noise, and it’s like looking through a tunnel. All I can see is the woman."
• "I pause, somewhat annoyed at the interruption. But not annoyed at her attention. I want her to look at me, to speak to me. To lie under me. Stop. It."
• "Then she finally glances up and sees me. Something electric passes between us. Her green eyes widen slightly before returning to normal. And my own strange fascination is broken. It's broken, but I know what this means. All the symptoms are there. All the signs are as clear as in a textbook. This is a sickness and its name is True Mate; its end result will be the loss of my sanity."
• " I need to focus on charming her, making her see me as the ideal mate. This is how I will court my True Mate."
• "Maeve is my mate. My True Mate. The connection elven fairy tales talk about, the one I never even dared to hope for."
• "I know it’s not real. I know it’s just in my head, but it doesn’t matter. My True Mate, caring for me, is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. My skin tingles everywhere she touches, and I fight to keep my breathing even. She smells of soap and lavender, of soft and clean things. Her scent fills my senses, making me lightheaded."
• "The carefully prepared speech about the lily and my hopes for our future crumbles away, replaced by cold dread. My past has finally caught up with me, and this time, it isn't leaving quietly."
October 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
🌶️🌶️🌶️ spice
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
I’ve read all three previous books before this one, and I loved them all — so I went into this with high expectations and a skip in my step, and I was not disappointed!!
The start of this book gives you a totally amusing and fun introduction into book four. The world these books are based in feels so relatable, like real life — but only if your fantasy dreams also merged into it. You get the drama of everyday life mixed with fantastical, magical fantasy, and it’s amazing. The writing flows so smoothly, with such great pacing that you never feel rushed, but also aren’t bogged down with draggy over-explaining.
The switch between the two POVs is great. You get a clear understanding of not just the FL but the ML too, and hearing their inner thoughts sometimes had me giggling out loud and struggling to breathe. The sparks and emotions in this book could not only light a candle, they could set an entire blaze — and that’s not even mentioning the spice. 🔥
The spice in this book fits so perfectly with the overall tone of the story — it’s hot and sweet and leaves you blushing and wanting more. Absolutely delicious.
The story itself was so fun to follow and had me wide-eyed, giggling, then cursing, and then laughing again. It’s not a book that will have you pulling your hair out and lobbing it across the room — it’s the kind of book that makes you want to curl up on the sofa with a hot drink and get lost in it. It made me feel warm and at ease in the best way.
I read a lot of books, and I can say this series soothes something in me. It makes me both happy and warm. But don’t get me wrong — it’s not all sunshine and butterflies. There are dark and gritty parts too, but I won’t spoil anything. Just know this book is a perfect all-rounder, and this series has quickly become one of my all-time favorites.
Would I recommend it? YES — all day long.
Would I read it again? I would read this book and the whole series again and again. Easy.
How would I sum it up? It’s hard to sum up this book, but... it’s my happy place. When real life is hard, I can find happiness and warmth here.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ spice
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
I’ve read all three previous books before this one, and I loved them all — so I went into this with high expectations and a skip in my step, and I was not disappointed!!
The start of this book gives you a totally amusing and fun introduction into book four. The world these books are based in feels so relatable, like real life — but only if your fantasy dreams also merged into it. You get the drama of everyday life mixed with fantastical, magical fantasy, and it’s amazing. The writing flows so smoothly, with such great pacing that you never feel rushed, but also aren’t bogged down with draggy over-explaining.
The switch between the two POVs is great. You get a clear understanding of not just the FL but the ML too, and hearing their inner thoughts sometimes had me giggling out loud and struggling to breathe. The sparks and emotions in this book could not only light a candle, they could set an entire blaze — and that’s not even mentioning the spice. 🔥
The spice in this book fits so perfectly with the overall tone of the story — it’s hot and sweet and leaves you blushing and wanting more. Absolutely delicious.
The story itself was so fun to follow and had me wide-eyed, giggling, then cursing, and then laughing again. It’s not a book that will have you pulling your hair out and lobbing it across the room — it’s the kind of book that makes you want to curl up on the sofa with a hot drink and get lost in it. It made me feel warm and at ease in the best way.
I read a lot of books, and I can say this series soothes something in me. It makes me both happy and warm. But don’t get me wrong — it’s not all sunshine and butterflies. There are dark and gritty parts too, but I won’t spoil anything. Just know this book is a perfect all-rounder, and this series has quickly become one of my all-time favorites.
Would I recommend it? YES — all day long.
Would I read it again? I would read this book and the whole series again and again. Easy.
How would I sum it up? It’s hard to sum up this book, but... it’s my happy place. When real life is hard, I can find happiness and warmth here.
October 23, 2025
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
TROPES
🩺Human x Elf
🩺Doctor x Nurse
🩺Enemies to Lovers
🩺Monster Romance
🩺Touch her and Die
🩺Cozy Romance
🩺Glitter Mayhem
--💟💟--
This is my third Mary Auclair book and she didn't disappoint! I devoured this book in one hour and re-read it several times already because I'm just so obsessed with her work! Also, I really do have a thing for long-haired MMCs 😂
HEALED BY THE GRUMPY ELF follows the spread of Pixie Pox, a disease common amongst young children and Others (supernatural's). Dealing with the issue are Elf Dr. Lorian Reizenhart and school nurse Maeve Callahan, who struggle to deny their fiery chemistry amongst personal struggles. We also have cute children, a lot of delicious spice, and a satisfying conclusion to boot!
What I love the most about Mary Auclair's stories are that her 'enemies' or 'rivals' in the beginning of the story APOLOGIZE when they realize that they are wrong! I wasn't sure about Maeve or Lorian until I read Lorian apologize to Maeve, and then I was on TEAM LORIAN BABY!!! Lorian is an absolute sweetheart, and I love how Auclair wrote his character. He truly stayed a grumpy, lonely elf who just needed someone to understand him past his sterile eyes and smiling allergy 😂That presentation he gave at the beginning to the poor children was hilarious!
Maeve is now my second favorite protagonist besides Nina from Courted BY THE GRUMPY DRAGON. She was the absolute sweetest with the children and Auclair handled the maturity between Maeve's conversations with them perfectly, as well as having that childhood innocence balanced in between! All of the children were equal parts of adorable and mischievous, and Maeve was the perfect nurse! I loved her spirited nature, her gentle handling of not only the children, but also our lovable grump Lorian, and I also loved that Maeve stood her ground when she needed to (looking at you, Principal Braggstone 👀)
Lorian, oh Lorian. I could go on about him for days. All of Auclair's characters seem to have long hair and they just make me SWOON!! 😍Lorian was a grump, he was broody, he had a tragic past - everything I love in a man 😂But his past, oh his past. I sobbed for poor Lorian and when he finally confessed to Maeve I was like YES MAEVE COMFORT YOUR MAN!! But oh boy, Lorian also has a dirty-talking side he doesn't reveal very often 🥵and when that time finally came, not enough glitter could cover his feelings! I also loved protective Lorian at the end, when Braggstone finally, FINALLY got what he deserved!
I also want to applaud Auclair for having COMMUNICATION in her books! Finally, we have protagonists acting like adults. Lorian didn't take kindly to the blackmail he received, and instead of running away (as he did when he discovered Maeve was his True Mate - but only because he didn't want to bind them without her consent and knowledge) he told Maeve upfront, and they faced the challenge together! That made me love Lorian even more than I already did. If anyone watches anime, Lorian is kind of like a less grumpy version of Naoki from Itazura na Kiss but also kind of like Tendo Kairi from An Incurable Case of Love.
Additionally, I have to share my love of the sweet side characters of Millie and Harriet! Millie, a Pixie, was ADORABLE!! Truly, she was the absolute sweetest, and she was indirectly the reason we got our first and most satisfying, glittery spicy scene between Maeve and Lorian. Harriet was the best best friend for Maeve and she would totally be me, just gossiping about Lorian and his hair 😂
As with all of Mary Auclair's books, another MUST READ!! ❤️❤️
Looking for more of my reviews? Want to contact me? Check out my blog! Shreya Reads, Reviews, and Writes
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
TROPES
🩺Human x Elf
🩺Doctor x Nurse
🩺Enemies to Lovers
🩺Monster Romance
🩺Touch her and Die
🩺Cozy Romance
🩺Glitter Mayhem
--💟💟--
This is my third Mary Auclair book and she didn't disappoint! I devoured this book in one hour and re-read it several times already because I'm just so obsessed with her work! Also, I really do have a thing for long-haired MMCs 😂
HEALED BY THE GRUMPY ELF follows the spread of Pixie Pox, a disease common amongst young children and Others (supernatural's). Dealing with the issue are Elf Dr. Lorian Reizenhart and school nurse Maeve Callahan, who struggle to deny their fiery chemistry amongst personal struggles. We also have cute children, a lot of delicious spice, and a satisfying conclusion to boot!
What I love the most about Mary Auclair's stories are that her 'enemies' or 'rivals' in the beginning of the story APOLOGIZE when they realize that they are wrong! I wasn't sure about Maeve or Lorian until I read Lorian apologize to Maeve, and then I was on TEAM LORIAN BABY!!! Lorian is an absolute sweetheart, and I love how Auclair wrote his character. He truly stayed a grumpy, lonely elf who just needed someone to understand him past his sterile eyes and smiling allergy 😂That presentation he gave at the beginning to the poor children was hilarious!
Maeve is now my second favorite protagonist besides Nina from Courted BY THE GRUMPY DRAGON. She was the absolute sweetest with the children and Auclair handled the maturity between Maeve's conversations with them perfectly, as well as having that childhood innocence balanced in between! All of the children were equal parts of adorable and mischievous, and Maeve was the perfect nurse! I loved her spirited nature, her gentle handling of not only the children, but also our lovable grump Lorian, and I also loved that Maeve stood her ground when she needed to (looking at you, Principal Braggstone 👀)
Lorian, oh Lorian. I could go on about him for days. All of Auclair's characters seem to have long hair and they just make me SWOON!! 😍Lorian was a grump, he was broody, he had a tragic past - everything I love in a man 😂But his past, oh his past. I sobbed for poor Lorian and when he finally confessed to Maeve I was like YES MAEVE COMFORT YOUR MAN!! But oh boy, Lorian also has a dirty-talking side he doesn't reveal very often 🥵and when that time finally came, not enough glitter could cover his feelings! I also loved protective Lorian at the end, when Braggstone finally, FINALLY got what he deserved!
I also want to applaud Auclair for having COMMUNICATION in her books! Finally, we have protagonists acting like adults. Lorian didn't take kindly to the blackmail he received, and instead of running away (as he did when he discovered Maeve was his True Mate - but only because he didn't want to bind them without her consent and knowledge) he told Maeve upfront, and they faced the challenge together! That made me love Lorian even more than I already did. If anyone watches anime, Lorian is kind of like a less grumpy version of Naoki from Itazura na Kiss but also kind of like Tendo Kairi from An Incurable Case of Love.
Additionally, I have to share my love of the sweet side characters of Millie and Harriet! Millie, a Pixie, was ADORABLE!! Truly, she was the absolute sweetest, and she was indirectly the reason we got our first and most satisfying, glittery spicy scene between Maeve and Lorian. Harriet was the best best friend for Maeve and she would totally be me, just gossiping about Lorian and his hair 😂
As with all of Mary Auclair's books, another MUST READ!! ❤️❤️
Looking for more of my reviews? Want to contact me? Check out my blog! Shreya Reads, Reviews, and Writes
October 31, 2025
Healed by the Grumpy Elf is a fourth book in the Monsters of Saltford Bay series and another enjoyable one !
Elven Dr. Lorian Reizenhart is now the Saltford Bay Medical Clinic’s new doctor and a grumpy one whose world is a perfectly ordered one.
School nurse Maeve is busy dodging the unwanted advances of her schools Troll principal who just won’t take no for an answer.
Just one more complication she doesn’t need in her life.
When Lorian and Maeve meet it may begin with a little angst vibe but can love be far behind?
I found this story a charming romance wherein an emotionally cold Elf comes up against a cute little school nurse and finds his forever mate in the bargain.
A little drama, romance, humor, steamy passion, adorable monster kiddies, lovely writing and an engaging story made this an entertaining read with a wonderful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elven Dr. Lorian Reizenhart is now the Saltford Bay Medical Clinic’s new doctor and a grumpy one whose world is a perfectly ordered one.
School nurse Maeve is busy dodging the unwanted advances of her schools Troll principal who just won’t take no for an answer.
Just one more complication she doesn’t need in her life.
When Lorian and Maeve meet it may begin with a little angst vibe but can love be far behind?
I found this story a charming romance wherein an emotionally cold Elf comes up against a cute little school nurse and finds his forever mate in the bargain.
A little drama, romance, humor, steamy passion, adorable monster kiddies, lovely writing and an engaging story made this an entertaining read with a wonderful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2025
Healed by the Grumpy Elf is an adorable, spicy fated mates romance between a sweet school nurse and the new doctor in town, a clinical, analytical elf.
Nurse Maeve isn't initially very impressed with Dr. Lorain Reizenhart. Sure he's got that elvish handsomeness in spades, but he's really lacking in the people skills necessary to integrate into a small town.
But when a highly contagious outbreak of pixie pox strikes the school, Maeve and Lorian have to work together to contain and treat it. Which is difficult for Lorian because he knew as soon as he saw Maeve that she's his mate and he's terrified that she will upset his carefully curated life.
Healed by the Grumpy Elf is part of a series, but can easily be read as a standalone and is a quick, cute read. Thank you Booksirens and Mary Auclair for the opportunity to advance read.
Nurse Maeve isn't initially very impressed with Dr. Lorain Reizenhart. Sure he's got that elvish handsomeness in spades, but he's really lacking in the people skills necessary to integrate into a small town.
But when a highly contagious outbreak of pixie pox strikes the school, Maeve and Lorian have to work together to contain and treat it. Which is difficult for Lorian because he knew as soon as he saw Maeve that she's his mate and he's terrified that she will upset his carefully curated life.
Healed by the Grumpy Elf is part of a series, but can easily be read as a standalone and is a quick, cute read. Thank you Booksirens and Mary Auclair for the opportunity to advance read.
February 19, 2026
Maeve is the school nurse in Saltford Bay, when the new doctor, Lorian Reizenhart, arrives. He’s a cold, by the book, elf doctor who never smiles. He has no idea how to deal with children, so Maeve has to set him straight. Then a Pixie-Pox outbreak sweeps through the school and they have to work together to keep it under control. Unfortunately, Maeve is drawn to the grumpy doctor, even though he blows hot and cold. One minute he’s giving her attention, the next he’s cold and distant. This was a fun story, with the human nurse trying to figure out the elf doctor, who has a lot of baggage and issues he needs to work out. I’m really enjoying the Monsters of Saltford Bay series, and it’s fun when a secondary character pops up that was mentioned in a previous book, even though each story can be read as a standalone.
October 15, 2025
I love this Monsters of Saltford Bay series and Maeve and Lorian's story doesn't disappoint.
Lorian is an uptight delight. Tidiness and order wrapped up in a hot elf, who is the new doctor in Saltford Bay.
Maeve is the school nurse and she's full of colour and sass, the opposite of Lorian. He is not prepared for Maeve at all, nor is he prepared for a school of young pupils.
I loved how awkward Lorian was around all the kids to start with, like a rabbit caught in headlights. Despite initially causing some friction between the two of them, it also led to sparks flying. And as Lorian's protectiveness grew, Maeve seemed to blossom more.
Thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait for the next book in the series.
Lorian is an uptight delight. Tidiness and order wrapped up in a hot elf, who is the new doctor in Saltford Bay.
Maeve is the school nurse and she's full of colour and sass, the opposite of Lorian. He is not prepared for Maeve at all, nor is he prepared for a school of young pupils.
I loved how awkward Lorian was around all the kids to start with, like a rabbit caught in headlights. Despite initially causing some friction between the two of them, it also led to sparks flying. And as Lorian's protectiveness grew, Maeve seemed to blossom more.
Thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait for the next book in the series.
October 3, 2025
This is a nice, easy read. I enjoyed the interplay between the bubbly, open, nurse Maeve, and the new uptight, elven doctor, Lorian, who recognizes Maeve as his fated mate but fights it hard.
Mary does a great job of working on their relationship while keeping the plot moving. Pixie-Pox and an inappropriate boss keep the two of them hopping and forcing them together, ensuring the heat between them keeps rising.
I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. Although it is part of a series, it is completely a stand alone novel and not necessary to read any others to thoroughly enjoy this one!!
I received an ARC copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mary does a great job of working on their relationship while keeping the plot moving. Pixie-Pox and an inappropriate boss keep the two of them hopping and forcing them together, ensuring the heat between them keeps rising.
I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. Although it is part of a series, it is completely a stand alone novel and not necessary to read any others to thoroughly enjoy this one!!
I received an ARC copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2025
3 stars
3 🌶️
Book 4 in The Monsters of Saltford Bay series
This tale of a small town school nurse and the new elf doctor providing medical services as well as being a love interest, this is the first book in the series I've read so can be a stand alone without confusions. Not my usual read but felt like a change/challenge of something new and although slow in parts this book was an ok read, worth it for the spicy sections alone as well as the trials and tribulations faced in the day to day care routine of the two main characters their story just draws you in.
I received an advance review copy for free and i am leaving this review voluntarily
3 🌶️
Book 4 in The Monsters of Saltford Bay series
This tale of a small town school nurse and the new elf doctor providing medical services as well as being a love interest, this is the first book in the series I've read so can be a stand alone without confusions. Not my usual read but felt like a change/challenge of something new and although slow in parts this book was an ok read, worth it for the spicy sections alone as well as the trials and tribulations faced in the day to day care routine of the two main characters their story just draws you in.
I received an advance review copy for free and i am leaving this review voluntarily
November 4, 2025
This book was difficult for me to get into, but once I finished a few chapters I couldn’t put it down. I have nothing against the first few chapters. There were just a lot of other things going on in my life that had me distracted–sick kids, not getting paid, Halloween, etc. I haven’t read a lot of mythical romance lately, so I will say this book was extremely charming. The MC’s personal issues + their public issues had my head spinning a bit if I’m honest. This was the first of Mary’s books that I have read, and I look forward to reading more of her work soon.
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.
November 10, 2025
*ARC Review*
This is by far one of my favorite Monster Romance series that I have had the pleasure of reading. As soon as I saw that sexy elf man was available, I applied for the ARC immediately and demolished the book in a few hours.
I really do appreciate these short and sweet, semi spicy novellas.
Dr Elf McGrumpy Face and Nurse Human Embodiment of Sunshine are a fantastic power couple.
No, spoilers, but I really do hope that we get another story with these two. I need a different type of closure. Maybe we’ll be lucky enough to have a special HEA, 1 decade later compilation or something.
IDK, but I am absolutely here for it.
This is by far one of my favorite Monster Romance series that I have had the pleasure of reading. As soon as I saw that sexy elf man was available, I applied for the ARC immediately and demolished the book in a few hours.
I really do appreciate these short and sweet, semi spicy novellas.
Dr Elf McGrumpy Face and Nurse Human Embodiment of Sunshine are a fantastic power couple.
No, spoilers, but I really do hope that we get another story with these two. I need a different type of closure. Maybe we’ll be lucky enough to have a special HEA, 1 decade later compilation or something.
IDK, but I am absolutely here for it.
November 22, 2025
This one is cute, but the slow burn felt like it needed a jump start. Lorian’s whole icy doctor routine is funny until he stares down a classroom disaster like it personally insulted him. The school nurse chaos energy is the only thing keeping the pace from dragging too much. Their first meeting with the crying kids and the rogue carrot honestly set the tone better than anything that came after. The romance is sweet, but the ongoing harassment subplot made me grit my teeth because it should have been handled way sooner. Still, the town vibes are cozy and the tension during the Pixie Pox mess finally woke the story up.
October 9, 2025
Great next story in the Monsters of Saltford Bay series! Fated mates stories are always winners for me personally. I love Maeve's personality and ease with the school children. This is something I've never mastered myself, but her character makes it so obvious. Poor Lorian is more like me, a tad too direct and wants all folks to act like adults, lol. They make a great pair. I'm glad the villain gets whats coming, but he probably deserved worse. Check out this book for a cozy, spicy, cute, and funny read!
October 23, 2025
In this installment of the series, we have a super grumpy, stoic elf doctor who is new to town and he's not hitting it off with residents. When his path crosses with the much loved school nurse, he instantly is drawn to her but is determined to keep his distance. When an outbreak of Pixie-Pox forces them to work together, he's forced to face the truth and of course fall in love. But things are complicated AND the school principal has his sights set on the sunshine nurse. This story is a grumpy x sunshine, fated mates, instalove story with a lot of heart.
October 26, 2025
"An Amazing Monster Romance series"
This series is set in the quirky, and funny town of Saltford bay.
Maeve is a single feisty school nurse. she works at Saltford Bay elementary school. Her friends, and several towns people try to match make her. Meanwhile the school principal keeps hitting on her. Maeve is not interested in him.
Lorian is a sexy Elf doctor who just moved to town. He is so sexy he turns heads wherever he goes! When he meets Maeve sparks fly both good and bad.Lorian tried to fight his attraction to her.
Did fate lead Lorian to move to Saltford Bay?
This series is set in the quirky, and funny town of Saltford bay.
Maeve is a single feisty school nurse. she works at Saltford Bay elementary school. Her friends, and several towns people try to match make her. Meanwhile the school principal keeps hitting on her. Maeve is not interested in him.
Lorian is a sexy Elf doctor who just moved to town. He is so sexy he turns heads wherever he goes! When he meets Maeve sparks fly both good and bad.Lorian tried to fight his attraction to her.
Did fate lead Lorian to move to Saltford Bay?
October 30, 2025
I've read the other books in this series, and I've enjoyed them all! The school nurse vs clinic doctor was so interesting, because it created such a natural grumpy/sunshine, and I loved how the kids interacted with both MCs. This was such a fun and quick read, and I loved the dual pov- and as is usual for this series- the mate aspect. There was a character that made me really uncomfortable (he is meant to, so the author did their job well), but personally I hate characters like that, otherwise this would have been so close to 5 star.
November 3, 2025
Sweet BUT
I really liked this book but it has to be said. What is with romance novels trivializing sexual assault? The instant the principal wouldn’t take no for an answer and the FMC started HIDING IN HER OFFICE, she needed to make a formal complaint to the school board. If it continued, the police.
Instead the harassment lasts for the entire book until the MMC gets into a physical altercation with our villainous principal and he talks about it to a parent of one of the students. Like.. wtf?
Aside from all that, a sweet story.
I really liked this book but it has to be said. What is with romance novels trivializing sexual assault? The instant the principal wouldn’t take no for an answer and the FMC started HIDING IN HER OFFICE, she needed to make a formal complaint to the school board. If it continued, the police.
Instead the harassment lasts for the entire book until the MMC gets into a physical altercation with our villainous principal and he talks about it to a parent of one of the students. Like.. wtf?
Aside from all that, a sweet story.
January 11, 2026
This was a freebie on Amazon. Grumpy/Sunshine trope. The author has many books with this trope.
It works with this one.
This is a fantasy romance with a rift between dimensions. Creatures like werewolves/trolls/ogres/ ect live among humans in a small town.
The hero is an elf - a new Dr in town. The heroine is an elementary school nurse.
Mild angst. An epidemic hits the school & the H/h have to work together. There's also some sexual harassment between the heroine & the school principal.
Cute, light read.
It works with this one.
This is a fantasy romance with a rift between dimensions. Creatures like werewolves/trolls/ogres/ ect live among humans in a small town.
The hero is an elf - a new Dr in town. The heroine is an elementary school nurse.
Mild angst. An epidemic hits the school & the H/h have to work together. There's also some sexual harassment between the heroine & the school principal.
Cute, light read.
January 17, 2026
School nurse Maeve finds her 'true mate' in elf doctor Lorian.
I enjoyed the parts of this that weren't romance or sex. A pixie-pox outbreak that gives kids glowing freckles, constant giggles, and floating episodes? That's fun. Stuffy elf doctor Lorian giving a nutrition lecture that results in kindergartners freaking out because they think you die if you don't eat vegetables? Thumbs up.
I skipped the pages and pages of sex and wasn't a fan of the true mate/there's no choice involved trope. So three stars for the non-sex scenes (or a bit more than half of the book).
I enjoyed the parts of this that weren't romance or sex. A pixie-pox outbreak that gives kids glowing freckles, constant giggles, and floating episodes? That's fun. Stuffy elf doctor Lorian giving a nutrition lecture that results in kindergartners freaking out because they think you die if you don't eat vegetables? Thumbs up.
I skipped the pages and pages of sex and wasn't a fan of the true mate/there's no choice involved trope. So three stars for the non-sex scenes (or a bit more than half of the book).
November 2, 2025
Yet another cute cozy read in Saltford Bay. The complete opposite approach to children and medicine between Lorian and Maeve was gold. Lorian is uptight and all about the scientific facts. He is clinical and precise. So of course his true mate would be sunshine and chaos! But they work so well together and I love his commitment to his mate. Perfect read to snuggle up under a blanket on a cold fall day!.
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.
April 16, 2026
Très bon tôme
Je dois humblement vous avouer que je ne suis généralement pas une fervente admiratrice des elfes, et c'est avec une légère appréhension que j'ai entamé cette lecture.
Cependant, je me dois de souligner que l'auteure a admirablement réussi à me faire apprécier le charmant docteur !
Ce fut une lecture fort agréable, et j'ai finalement beaucoup apprécié l'intrigue, les personnages ainsi que la romance.
Un moment de lecture des plus plaisants.
Je dois humblement vous avouer que je ne suis généralement pas une fervente admiratrice des elfes, et c'est avec une légère appréhension que j'ai entamé cette lecture.
Cependant, je me dois de souligner que l'auteure a admirablement réussi à me faire apprécier le charmant docteur !
Ce fut une lecture fort agréable, et j'ai finalement beaucoup apprécié l'intrigue, les personnages ainsi que la romance.
Un moment de lecture des plus plaisants.
October 3, 2025
Lorian, an Elf Doctor and Maeve, human school nurse develop a relationship that you weren’t sure would happen. Dr Elf being private and controlled person and Maeve being a warm outgoing human was quite the mix.
Unwanted advances and surprised summons bring more to the story.
This book 4 is a quick read and entertaining.
*I received this ARC Kindle Book from BookSirens. Thank You!
Unwanted advances and surprised summons bring more to the story.
This book 4 is a quick read and entertaining.
*I received this ARC Kindle Book from BookSirens. Thank You!
October 5, 2025
What a great book. Maeve is the school nurse at a supernatural school for everyone from pixies, humans, trolls and orcs and more. Lorian is the new town doctor who likes everything just so. Their HEA is full of fun, angst, choices and love. This is a page-turner.
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.
October 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this grumpy/sunshine style story. Dr. Lorian is uptight, stern and rigid in his views of how medicine should be dispensed. Nurse Maeve's more empathetic and friendly approach disconcerts him to no end. With such differences, their explosive (and charming) interactions lead to a combination of sweet and sexy times.
October 20, 2025
The monsters of Saltwater Bay are back again. Lorian and Maeve are so HOT. Great chemistry between the two characters and nice character development. Who doesn’t love a doctor and a nurse love story. Nice spice and banter. I love all the books in this series.
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.
November 3, 2025
The fourth book in the Monsters of Saltford Bay series. It introduces Dr. Lorian Reizenhart, a new doctor at Saltford Bay Medical Clinic, and Maeve, a school nurse. This story combines drama, humor, steamy passion, and romance. It features adorable monster children, compelling characters, and a happy ending.
November 9, 2025
It Takes Two
Being a school nurse one handles a myriad of childhood illnesses. When she.meets the new doctor she is not impressed by his manner while dealing with kindergarteners. But then an outbreak of "Pixie Pox" has them working together to treat the illness. As.they work, their feelings for each other develop and they achieve their HEA.
Being a school nurse one handles a myriad of childhood illnesses. When she.meets the new doctor she is not impressed by his manner while dealing with kindergarteners. But then an outbreak of "Pixie Pox" has them working together to treat the illness. As.they work, their feelings for each other develop and they achieve their HEA.
November 13, 2025
I love the children's characters and how well they develop the story and highlight the relationship between the main characters. Maeve is delightful and the perfect school nurse combination of smart, kind, and practical. The other supporting cast are a blast!.
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.
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