Bound by the Sleeper's Harp

by Melissa Mitchell

What happens when you run into a gorgeous, tattooed goblin with bad boy vibes? You spill coffee down the front of your shirt. Yeah, not my finest moment.

Bastian Croft is a supernatural bounty hunter, and it turns out he's hunting...me.

I've been hiding for two years under a fake name, working at a nightclub and trying to forget the nightmare that shattered my old life. But when my beloved mentor Professor Miller is murdered, my carefully constructed world crumbles. Bastian knows I'm lying about who I am. He knows I'm keeping dangerous secrets. And the way he looks at me with those captivating green eyes? It's like he wants to bend me over his motorcycle and show me exactly what his hands can do.

When an ancient artifact starts stealing souls and trapping them in endless sleep, we're forced to work together. Bodies pile up across the city as the supernatural community faces an unknown threat, and someone from my past is pulling the strings—someone who knows exactly how to hurt me. But fighting for our lives while trying to resist the explosive chemistry between us? That's a whole different kind of dangerous. I'm breaking every rule I made to keep myself safe. Now I'm fighting the urge to climb this grumpy goblin like my own personal jungle gym, all while praying my deadly secrets stay buried.

Because if my past surfaces, it won't just get me killed—it'll destroy everything I've grown to love, including the fierce protector who's become my everything.

Bound by the Sleeper's Harp is a steamy paranormal romance featuring magical artifacts, supernatural politics, a sassy heroine reclaiming her power, and a possessive goblin who'll burn the world down to keep her safe. Perfect for fans of KF Breene, Patricia Briggs, and Ilona Andrews who love their urban fantasy with heat, heart, and happily ever afters.

Genres: Romance, Monsters, Romantasy, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy Romance

Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2026

About the author

Melissa Mitchell is a fantasy romance author best known for her seven-book Dragonwall series.

She fell in love with fantasy at a young age after discovering The Dragonriders of Pern, and she’s been chasing dragons, magic, and epic love stories ever since. Her books often feature beloved tropes like hidden royalty, slow-burn romance, and the undeniable tension of only one bed.

When she’s not writing, Melissa holds a PhD in physics and works as an optical engineer. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, a husky, and four very spoiled bunnies. She also enjoys baking cookies, bullet journaling, and figure skating—usually while thinking about her next book.

Reviews

[Krysta ꕤ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ★

”He could give her so, so much more. Worship her. Covet her. Keep her close. Never let her go—“

i would like to apologize to goblins everywhere, i fear i was unfamiliar with your game until Bastian 🫦

oh my god, this book was SO GOOD!! i barely read monster romances but when I do i have the time of my life!! Bastian and Eleanor’s chemistry was burning through the pages, then you add in their top tier chemistry / banter and i was IN LOVE. i appreciated how they got to know each other on a deeper level and bonded through their ability to empathize and just listen to the others point of view. i couldn’t get enough of them and all the “will they, won’t they” moments shared due to their forced proximity (she has to live with him.) the steamy scenes were WORTH THE WAIT OK.

”Bastian,” she gasped. That one word had those thoughts sliding right out of his mind. “Say it again, baby girl,” he begged.”

NOT THE BABY GIRL & BEGGING !!!! DOUBLE KO

Bastian is a goblin bounty hunter, who moves through the world with a glamor on himself and doesn’t believe there’s anyone who’d be capable of loving that version of him. he’s also TATTED & PIERCED to the nines, cooks almost everyday for his girl and i was so obsessed with him. he had an interesting magic that has to do with metals and he draws on that ability through his piercings. Eleanor is an exotic dancer that’s constantly on the move since she’s trying to escape her abusive ex. Eleanor was so smart and always stepped up to any challenge thrown her way. Bastian ends up enlisting Eleanor’s help in finding a stolen ancient artifact that’s been snatching souls. the plot was so fun and engaging, there was never a dull moment, i also loved Teddy the cat and could read a million more books in this universe.
———

um, hello?! the dedication:

“for all the book girlies who fell in love with Ruhn Danaan and craved another tattooed, pierced protecter with a heart of gold.”

I’VE BEEN SUMMONED BYE 🏃‍♀️

———

➺ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and BooksGoSocial for the arc, all opinions are my own.

[BookishKB]

🎶 🖤 Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp 🖤 🎶

This wasn't quite what I was hoping for but I still enjoyed it overall.


⭐ Final Rating: 3.5 Stars

📅 Pub Date: February 24, 2026

📝 Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Fiona · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️

I went into this book with extremely neutral expectations… and then immediately had to reassess my life choices. This book completely blindsided me. Based on the cover and general vibes, I was expecting a fairly tame urban fantasy with some light romance sprinkled in. What I got instead was surprisingly steamy, tension-heavy paranormal romance with a grumpy, tattooed goblin MMC who was far more compelling than I was prepared for.

Let’s talk about the chemistry, because wow. It was immediate, intense, and carried consistently through the book. The attraction didn’t feel forced or rushed, it felt feral in a way that worked. Bastian is possessive, morally gray, protective to a fault, and once he’s in, he’s all in. The spice level was way higher than expected and honestly the cover does this book zero favours. If you’re here for heat, this delivers.

I also really enjoyed the urban fantasy elements, magical artifacts, supernatural politics, a soul-stealing mystery, and bodies piling up while everyone scrambles to contain the fallout. The plot kept moving and I appreciated that the Elle wasn’t just reacting to events. She’s dealing with trauma and secrets, but she’s actively reclaiming her power rather than being sidelined or constantly rescued.

That said, it’s not a perfect read. Some of the worldbuilding and paranormal politics felt a bit thin, especially early on, and I occasionally wanted more depth around the wider supernatural community. A few plot beats were predictable and some emotional moments could’ve hit harder with a little more buildup. Elle's secrets also dragged on just slightly too long for me, which took some of the edge off the tension rather than heightening it.

Still, the positives absolutely outweighed the negatives. This book was fun, spicy, fast-paced and unexpectedly addictive. It’s one of those reads you start casually and then suddenly realise you’re emotionally invested and deeply attracted to a goblin bounty hunter. All up, this was a wildly entertaining read and a prime example of why you should never judge a book by its cover… especially when it’s hiding this much heat.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Aly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Netgalley for this ARC!

I absolutely love these characters and this story was so fun! The idea of fair folk living their lives among us, but they wear glamour so that most humans don't know, was great! It gave "Men in Black" vibes. It was definitely up my alley.

I'm so sorry that I can't give this a higher rating. I feel like the premise had so much potential. Unfortunately, the execution is problematic.

If you're ok with just going with the flow, enjoying the well-written spice, and not analyzing anything too much... this story is a fun read. 

---
Some good things about it...

There was great character diversity (race, size, sexual orientation etc), which I love! 

I felt the writing itself was good quality, and (while the romance is clearly the main focus of the story) the background "sleeping curse" mystery was interesting and kept me turning pages. 

it definitely could have been longer. There were a lot of interesting characters and details that could have been further developed (ex. more info on her best friend Vivi and more details around the murder mystery).
-----

Now for the problematic parts... 

Note: Insignificant spoiler and important content warning incoming:

One major gripe I have is what occurs is right at the beginning of the story. 

Shortly after MMC meets FMC he manhandles her quite a bit. He saves her life, but then immediately lockes her in his house, uses magic to stop her from running away, steals her phone so that she can't have any contact with her friends, carries her over his shoulder against her will, and even slaps her bum to stop her from struggling. I feel that she did NOT react realistically to the situation. 

This story focuses on healing from domestic abuse, so FMC is dealing with a lot of trauma. Even if the he saved her life, I feel there's no way she would realistically have been attracted to MMC in this scenario. If it were me, I would have been absolutely terrified of him, and I don't even have her trauma. 

I feel that it should have taken FMC MUCH longer to  trust a man who touched her without her permission several times (even though he was just trying to help) and who took away her ability to leave a place where she didn't want to be. 

I feel that the author wanted to jump right into the attraction/romance side of the story, and lost sight of the fact that kidnapping is in itself a traumatic experience. MMC was a complete stranger at this point. Her alarm bells & panic response should have been through the roof. This whole scenario could have been handled differently and still been very cute/romantic. (Ex. He could have offered to bring her to one of her friend's house, or walked her to her place, asked to come in, asked her his questions, camped outside her door all night to protect/guard her.)

Not to mention, the entire book takes place over 2 weeks. That is NOT enough time to know if pushy, authoritative, possessive, and rude MMC is actually a good guy. She knows from experience it can take a long time for an abuser's true colours to show. 

As it stands, it was very problematic that FMC felt immediate attraction and trust towards a MMC who treated her with a huge lack of respect. Especially with her history and the fact that she has not yet worked through any of her trauma because she's been too busy hiding from her abuser. 

(Note: There is some good progress made at the very end of the book ... it leaves the reader feeling optimistic that FMC has actually started really working through things)
------

Other gripes:

The constant jump from 1st to 3rd person POV was disorienting. It disrupted the flow and reduced the level of emotional connection I had to MMC vs FMC. I didn't feel its use was justified/necessary. 

The insta-lust/love took away from the story for me. I would have much preferred if MMC was wanting her right away and she made him wait while she worked through some things and they fell in love over a longer period of time (again .. the whole main part of the book [excluding the epilogue chapter] takes place over 2 weeks!).

There is zero wrap up of the murder mystery part of the story. We find out who did it, but have no idea why or how they got mixed up with the other villian of the story. It was honestly a big let down. 

------
In summary, I think this author has real talent and her story had potential. I would read other books by her. I just think the plot & timeline on this were far too rushed to allow deeper themes to be properly explored/resolved.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a very enjoyable book. I loved the premise of the world, and the way the characters backgrounds were described.
Elle was a great character to get to know, a though I can’t speak from experience I felt her background and the way she was handling things in present day was done well.
Bastian was a great MMC. Him being open to discussing his past and helping Elle with her problems was great.
I loved the supernatural elements to the story, and the way the storyline evolved was well put together in my opinion.

I’m definitely interested in reading more of Melissa’s books!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

My SIL / best friend (yes, my husband hates it) announced in our group chat that we all needed to stay tuned because at 83% she was convinced Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp was going to be a 5-star read. Shortly after, she confirmed facts. So of course, I immediately opened NetGalley and requested it — because if she says it’s five stars, it’s usually the perfect balance of plot, spice, and overall enjoyment.

I can now confidently report: sis did not steer me wrong.

This book was SO FREAKING GOOD.

I absolutely loved both the FMC and MMC.
Our FMC has been through it (seriously — check your trigger warnings). Despite that, she was strong, sharp, and didn’t take our MMC’s nonsense, which I appreciated immensely. She felt resilient without being unrealistically invincible.

Our MMC? A broody jerk who falls hard. Hi, yes, sign me up 👅. His arc from emotionally guarded to deeply invested was satisfying to watch unfold, and the chemistry between these two was HOT 🥵.

The plot itself was a standout. While this isn’t an academic setting in the traditional “campus romance” sense, the academic elements were woven throughout in a really compelling way — references to the FMC’s university life, her studies, and her father’s profession all added layers to the story. It gave the world depth and made the stakes feel grounded while still maintaining a level of intrigue.

Now, take the following critiques with a grain of salt because:
1. I’ve been babysitting a very cute puppy for the last week who enjoys role-playing as the devil incarnate, so sleep has been a distant memory.
2. I remain deeply salty that my extremely hot husband refuses to reenact any of these spicy scenes with me… or honestly, any scene at all 😩.

Here’s where the loss of a star comes in:
1. The third-act conflict (Drama with a capital D) felt like a bit much. I understood the intent, but it seemed unnecessarily escalated given the circumstances leading up to it. I think it could have been toned down without losing emotional impact.
2. Following that conflict, there was a stretch of very intense love-fest energy that just didn’t fully land for me. Chalk that up to exhaustion, cynicism, or my blackened heart — but it didn’t hit the way the rest of the book did.

That said, these are relatively small critiques in the grand scheme of things. Overall, this was a compelling, emotional, and genuinely enjoyable read, and I’m very excited to say I think I’ve found a new author to be mildly (or not so mildly) obsessed with.

—

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[jade ⋆₊˚ ᰔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you melissa mitchell & netgalley for the arc ⠀
⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀:¨ ·.· ¨:
⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀`· . 𐙚


4 stars

tropes
• fated mates
• supernatural politics
• overcoming trauma
• murder mystery
• magical artifacts
• slow burn romance
• spicy urban fantasy

i really liked this book!!!
the synopsis did exactly what it was supposed to do and set the right expectations, which already put this book in my good graces

& sorry but as someone who can say Ruhn Danaan is one of my FAVVVVV MMC~ the dedication / intro hooked me i’m sorry but there was no way i’d put it down after that

ᡣ𐭩 •｡ꪆৎ ˚⋅

this book is just very readable in the best way. the writing style is smooth, engaging, and confident, which made flying through it so easy!!
the slow burn worked for me because there was always something happening~ whether it was tension, secrets, or supernatural politics bubbling under the surface.
i really enjoyed the world-building, especially the artifacts, power dynamics, and overall sense that there’s more going on behind the scenes than what’s immediately on the page.
the character growth felt natural and satisfying, and the romance had real chemistry. the spice was fun, intentional, and well placed, adding to the story instead of overpowering it. and for me, ya girl needs a good plot, i can’t just read spice.. and this delivered on being good spice without overbearing to the storyline ♡

things that didn’t fully work for me
• i love a fated mates trope, but the timeline made it feel a little too insta love for my personal taste
• i really wanted more of the murder mystery and architects storyline because the setup was so good
• the focus leaned more toward romance and heat, which i enjoyed, but i would’ve loved a bit more balance with those plot threads

none of this ruined the experience for me at all, but those two things are ultimately why this landed at four stars instead of five !!
still a great read, im really looking forward to more from this author and would absolutely recommend reading this!!

[Haleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Realistically? This is a solid 3 star. Vibes wise? 4 star.

What I liked:
It's an extremely easy read. The vibes are there and they're mostly good. I was definitely drawn to continue reading, and finished this book extremely fast. Could easily get you out of a reading slump. It's no literary genius and definitely needs a lot of work to be the best version of itself, but it's entertaining and easy.

What needed some work:
I was expecting it to be more centered around the artifacts and mystery, but most of the book the was the FMC trapped in the MMCs house for her safety. I thought it would be the main characters working together to figure it out, but the FMC got sidelined and left at home most of the time.

I wish there was more world building and development. It's an extremely fast paced book that takes place in the span of 2 weeks. Definitely wish we got more information on the diverse world (its an urban fantasy, but has a whole multitude of supernaturals we don't learn about), and all it has to offer.

The plot had the opportunity to be great. The outline is there, but the pace left much to be desired. The ending was rushed, and we were just lacking information throughout.

This book centers on the FMC having a DA past, but she trusts the MMC almost immediately, even with him being extremely handsy and forceful (carted her off to his home without her permission, locked her inside, etc etc). The way she reacted just wasn't synonymous with her past. I just would've liked to see actually character growth and trust being built, rather than it being immediate and forced. We also got a bad case of insta-lust followed by insta-love (2 weeks people 2 weeks). And don't get me started on the cheap 3rd act "break-up". Blah.

After all that you're probably like "so why 4 stars?" sometimes it's just the vibes. Technically this book is definitely a 2.5-3 star, but I liked the vibes so 4 star it is.

***Thank you Melissa Mitchell and BooksGoSocial for this ARC. My review is voluntary and all thoughts and opinions are my own***

[Caterina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this opportunity!✨

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

I am so happy I came across this book! This is my first time reading anything by Melissa Mitchell and OMG GUYS!??? I am HOOKED!
Murder mystery, extra steamy romance, sexy goblin bounty hunter and a troubled FMC hiding from her past… I had SO MUCH fun reading this book! A new favorite of 2026 FOR SURE!
With a plot that is engaging with high stakes, there are no dull moments, twists that have you on the edge of your seat.
Melissa Mitchell’s characters are beautifully crafted, you become attached to them instantly and don’t we all love a steamy monster romance to cleanse the palate!?
What else could you ask for!??
ALSO, A CAT!!! Teddy is the cutest kitty ever! As a cat lady myself, I very much approve!🖤🥹 My heart!!🖤🖤

REAL QUICK… I have to admit I am quite obsessed with Bastian. How soft he becomes for Elle, his protective nature and also he’s a big, sexy, muscular goblin with tattoos and piercings? yes, PLEASE!!!🫡 Their chemistry was so freaking INTENSE!
I am a huge fan of how vivid certain scenes are!👀

Melissa, if you’re listening, WE NEED MORE!🫡🖤

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can’t say I ever expected to read a book where the MMC is a goblin, and absolutely love it. However, here I am. If it helps, he looks like Ruhn Danaan.
This book was a perfect balance of fun, serious, romantic and intriguing. Bound by the Sleepers Harp follows a woman fighting to make her way through the abuse she endured two years ago. She’s been able to hide away but everything started coming back to get her. I loved how she was strong enough to get thru things on her own but Bastian (MMC) was there to support and protect her where needed.

The romanceeeee! Loved. Bring back when fated mates was a little more surprising.

[Jenn Massey Hesler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Modern fantasy/romantic suspense. Elle is in hiding after she runs away from an abusive relationship. She meets Bastian as he’s investigating the death of her former mentor. The two end up working together and staying together so he can protect her.
It started out strong - but then it just felt uneven and choppy. Very insta love and it didn’t quite work for me. Kind of a bummer because the dedication was to Ruhn.

3.25 rounded down for Goodreads. Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this advanced copy. Pub Date 2/24/26.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to win an ARC of this book, and I am so happy I did!

I really enjoyed the fact this book has a murder mystery, romance, supernatural, and some very good spice 👌

Bastian.. 🥵🥵🥵

Also, love the cover art! It helped me create a great mental image of everything while reading.

[Ayla Shoulders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listen, sugar, this book was FIREEEEEE!!! Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGally for the opportunity to review an early copy of Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp!
Okay, if this dedication doesn’t make you AUTOMATICALLY jump into this book, then we can’t be friends! I mean, we can, I guess… but you know what I mean.
“For all the book girlies who fell in love with Ruhn Danaan and craved another tattooed, pierced protector with a heart of gold”

Which brings me to Bastian mfkn Croft 😍 Tattooed and pierced *gorgeous* Goblin Bounty Hunter with the Ruhn Danaan hair! (Someone dump some ice water on me, please! Because 🥵) so beautiful, so possessive and SO understanding. I loved how comfortable he makes Elle, especially after the mistrust and fear she should be experiencing with men after her past relationship.

This book was so much fun! Supernatural creatures (goblins, fae, shifters, vampires!) live in society with Humans and use glamor to blend in and keep the existence of supernatural beings a secret (to most!)!
(Eleanor) Rose, our badass FMC was in an abusive relationship and had to completely leave her old life behind and reinvent herself. I absolutely adore everything about her! The was so relatable and fun and sexy and independent. I just loved her so much.
Bastian is hunting down a murderer and Elle is his #1 suspect! Bound to the Sleepers Harp is a Bounty Hunter and his prey turned murder investigation partners who fuck SO GOOD. Guys, there’s so much sexual tension that you will be freaking melting by the end.
But it’s not just the romance that makes me wish this book never ended… it’s the story! Bound by the Sleepers Harp has such a great plot! I’m not going to get into it too much because I don’t want to spoil anything, but there’s magical artifacts, murder, mystery, disappearances, and MAGIC, lots of magic! Loved every moment of this book!

[Essentially Bookish Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp by Melissa Mitchell was an addictive, fast-paced paranormal romance that delivered exactly what I love in the genre—intense chemistry, satisfying heat, and a story that keeps momentum.

From the very beginning, the connection between the two main characters is immediate and compelling. Their chemistry feels natural, building from sharp attraction into something deeper without ever slowing the pace of the story. The dynamic between them is one of the book’s strongest elements—protective, emotionally charged, and impossible not to root for.

The spice level was perfectly balanced for the tone of the story. It enhances the emotional stakes rather than overshadowing the plot, and the tension between the characters carries through consistently, making their relationship feel both passionate and meaningful.

As a standalone, the novel strikes a solid balance with its world-building. The supernatural elements and wider setting provide enough context to feel immersive without overwhelming the central romance. The focus remains on the characters and their journey, which keeps the story tight, engaging, and easy to stay invested in.

The pacing is another highlight. The plot moves quickly, blending romance, danger, and mystery in a way that keeps the pages turning. There’s very little downtime, and the momentum makes it an easy book to devour in one or two sittings.

Overall, Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp is a highly enjoyable standalone paranormal romance with strong character chemistry, satisfying heat, and a fast-moving storyline. A great pick for readers looking for an engaging, spicy romance with just enough world-building to bring the story to life without slowing it down.

[Candace Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

*This review and the opinions included are my own!* Thank you Melissa for the arc!

Bound By The Sleeper's Harp, was heavy. But it was also full of laughs, tension and at the end...love. I will tell you, there are some very heavy subject matters in here, not on page, but discussed in the past tense. Melissa did a wonderful job at showing a dv survivor in a powerful light, reclaiming her independence, even when she had to change her appearance to stay safe.

Ok, the heavy is out of the way. Let's talk about the rest! The interactions between Rose and Bastian are hilarious in the beginning. I love their banter and Rose's no nonsense attitude. Bastian tries to be tough, but he's as soft as putty on the inside and this makes for some hilarious interactions between them. The tension and yearning between Rose and Bastian is thick and when it erupts. It is explosive!

I love the dynamic between the combine human and supernatural world. They are all living together, but most humans have no idea. The way they are hidden, is genius. I also think this is the first time I've fallen for a goblin. ;)

There are so many different elements to this story, but they flow and complement each other so well. There aren't any plot holes or missing links. This is a complete story even though you know there is going to be another book. All in all a 4.5 star read with a 3.5 on the spicy meter!

[Kallie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Goblins.. Who knew!

For having sleeper in the title, this book was quite the opposite.. It was fast paced and fun and spicy! Bastian can be an alphahole when he wants to be but man, this Goblin will do anything for our pink haired FMC, Rose. 💕 Rose, our stong FMC who takes her power back after an abusive relationship and will do anything for those she loves, and they do the same for her.

"His goblin purred with satisfaction. He could give her so, so much more. Worship her. Covet her. Keep her close. Never let her go⁠— "

I didn't know Goblins could be that sexy but I guess they can be whatever we want them to be..😏 including a delicious 6 ft something, pierced, lethal bounty hunter.. Bastian has a lot of the qualities we look for in a book boyfriend, including making breakfast, sparring lessons, and worshiping his baby girl.

“And you’re sure it’s like that possessive alpha-hole mates shit, that super hot kind? Like, bend you over the table and claim you kind?”

For being quite spicy, this book was well rounded, it has a balance to the spice, plot and character dynamics. I felt like there was an engaging murder mystery plot and I liked learning about the magical beings, powers and artifacts. So I'm curious to see what is next for this series!

“Don’t think I can ever let you go,”
“You don’t have to.”

[QueenReads13 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for providing an ARC. This review reflects my honest opinion.

Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp is the kind of fantasy that feels less like a story being told to you and more like a spell you slowly realize you’re already standing inside.

Melissa Mitchell’s writing leans atmospheric and lyrical, prioritizing mood, symbolism, and emotional undercurrents over fast pacing. The mythology surrounding the harp and its bindings carries a quiet gravity, and I appreciated how much the story trusted the reader to sit with ambiguity rather than overexplain its magic.

The strongest element for me was the tone. There’s a dreamlike, almost liminal quality throughout the book that makes the world feel suspended between waking and sleep, choice and inevitability. The emotional stakes are subtle but persistent, and when they land, they land softly but deeply.

That said, the middle portion slowed more than I personally prefer. There were moments where the narrative felt like it was circling its themes instead of advancing them, and I found myself wanting certain character dynamics to evolve sooner. The payoff toward the latter half helped balance this, but readers who prefer tightly paced fantasy may feel the drag.

In terms of romance and spice, this is very light. There is emotional and atmospheric tension, but little to no explicit content. If you’re looking for heat, this won’t scratch that itch. If you’re looking for longing, restraint, and a sense of mythic pull, it absolutely will.

Overall, Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp is a beautifully moody, slow-burn read that will resonate most with readers who enjoy lyrical prose, myth-infused storytelling, and emotional tension that simmers rather than explodes. It’s not a book you race through. It’s one you sink into.

[Kelsi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️

If you want a paranormal book filled with mystery, romance, spice, friends that are practically family, facing your fears, plenty of twists and turns, and a happily ever after than Bound by The Sleepers Harp is definitely one I’d recommend! You’ll love Rose from the very beginning, her life has not been easy and the last little while ever more so fraught with difficulty… and then she accidentally spills her coffee all over a gorgeous gargoyle, Bastian. And while relationships are something Rose doesn’t do anymore, she can’t deny she has a strong instant attraction to Bastian. That is until he opens his mouth. Honestly their banter just made their romance so much more fun to read! And while I don’t want to spoil anything I will say I loved these characters and they just made this whole book such a great read!

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC Review*
When I first read the blurb for this book it gave me warehouse 13 vibes and I loved that show. I was intrigued by the murder mystery and the whole artifact aspect of the story. I feel like the case kind of fell to the background of the book and focused more on the MMC and FMC and though it was solved I feel there was still a few loose ends.

I really liked the characters and I loved the addition of Teddy. Their banter was great and I enjoyed how they interacted with each other throughout the book. I don't wanna give any spoilers so I won't say to much but Im looking forward to continuing this series and exploring this world and magic.

Also make sure to check the trigger warnings!

[ladybooks1. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lo bonito q ha sido ?? Ns si es por la semana q llevo pero era el romance que necesitaba, m ha encantado !! 🫶🏻

[Ania_Gemma_Reads \ · Rating 5 out of 5]

📔The Sleeper's Harp by Melissa Mitchell
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐/5
🌶🌶🌶.5/ 5

📑SYNOPSIS:
Elle Kennedy is running from her past. When a murder brings her face to face with a goblin bounty hunter, her past comes racing back. Now her life is on the line, and he might be the only one who can keep her safe.

📝QUOTE:
Good girl," he cooed "You take me so well-so perfectly. So Tight. Fuck"

✏️MY THOUGHTS:
This book had me in a chokehold. I could not put this book down, but unfortunately, work, child, and sleep got in the way, but I was able to finish it in two days even with those inconveniences... Can I just read books for a living? Please?

This review might be a bit unhinged because I only finished this book a few hours ago and cannot think about anything else besides the filthy things that come out of Bastian's mouth. That male is my new book boyfriend, and I am not sharing it with anyone... Melissa since she created him but otherwise HANDS OFF! JK... maybe... not really...

This was a perfect mix of mystery, action, and some seriously steamy smut scenes. They were perfectly sprinkled throughout the book, which is perfect for me because my smut-loving mind cannot be satisfied with one scene at the end of the book. The buildup, the teasing, and the word sparring between Candy and Bastian are just head-spinning (in the best way)! Candy is a badass heroine, who is working on some issues and her past, but she is just kickass. She does not allow Bastian to boss her around, and she puts my favorite alphahole in his place- which is on his knees... in front of Candy...tasting some sweet sugar.... as the gods intended for him to be lol

I of course cannot forget to give the biggest shout-out to the star of the show- Teddy the fluffy white Persian... I mean he needs his own spin-off novel! Or at least a bonus chapter in the book! He is a freaking fluffy ball of perfection and stole my heart! We need some fan art for half-naked Bastian holding Teddy against his chest ASAP.

The plot moves along with perfect pacing and there is not a dull moment in this book.
The ending is so wholesome, and it made me so happy. We get a wonderful epilogue chapter that wraps things up nicely with a beautiful little bow!

[MB · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

This is dual POV. It's advertised as grumpy sunshine.

If you like paranormal/urban fantasy, damsel in distress and sort of murder mystery combined you may like this book.

This book looked like it was right up my alley, just the kind of book I enjoy to read. I mean, paranormal, urban fantasy, and it has a cat on the front of the book.

I can’t be objective on the pacing as it felt long. The e-book edition is by location. I looked up the paperback version and it’s under 400 pages.

I didn’t see many typos or huge continuity issues.

I liked the idea of the world/magic system.

And that was about all I liked.

Now to get real.

I struggled with this book.

By the 30% mark, I was almost at rage reading flashpoint.

Here's why.

From here on there will be spoilers. I don’t know how to tell you how much this book annoyed me without spoilers. I really really wish sometimes I was not a close reader and I did not notice these things.

He is a jerk even in his inner thoughts. He's constantly thinking and saying how annoying she is and even says that she whines.

I’m OK with unlikable characters. But this is why sometimes when you’re giving dual POV, it doesn’t work because there’s no plausible deniability. We don’t see that he’s grumpy on the outside, to hide his softy feelings. We get to see that he is totally, absolutely, in fact, a jerk.

She's on the run, hiding from a creep, doesn’t want to be noticed, but dyes her hair pink, is a club waitress and pole dancer oh but yes, she also used to study dance and was an art history grad student. After an intro in which she says she's very diligent about her surroundings she drops the information about being MMA training.

On top of the pink hair, her other disguise is that she has hazel eyes but uses brown contacts. She doesn’t say Hazel Brown and green. She says Hazel. Hazel eyes ARE a brown color.

The next thing you know she's walking distractedly into a back alley, gets man handled several times, including by the MMC.

At some point, it’s casually mentioned that she’s 5’8” tall in a manner that implies she’s tiny. I found that really weird. I am all for tall FMC’s.

Yes, you're allowed to have layers.

All of that about the FMC was a lot to take in.

I’m not sure the author understands what an ottoman is. The ottoman in this book held a tray with a vase with flowers in it on it.

He takes her to his house after rolling up on his motorcycle and rescuing her from an alley attack, and they drink whiskey out of snifters. That seems pretentious.

The author bio information says she has a PhD. That is very confusing to me because she writes like she doesn’t understand higher education. The character was in a masters program majoring in art history and a minor of anthropology. That is not how masters programs work. There is no major and minor. You major and minor in an undergrad program. The FMC says she “only” has 12 credits to complete the masters program and a thesis “paper.” I face palmed so hard. I think I hurt myself. 12 credits is probably a little less than half the program. I’m not even going to get into the vigor needed to complete a masters program or the complexity of a thesis or completing an emphasis or exam, depending on a program requirements.


The MMC constantly complains. He complains about FMC taking in the cat of a murdered person. Emphatically. Then he randomly drops how he volunteers at a animal, shelter and contributes Mucho Dinero. With no context of why he does that.

He tells her to dress classy. Her choice of outfit? A skater skirt, a silver beaded spaghetti, strap, crop top and studded ankle boots. Her classy hairstyle? A messy bun. Her make up? Contouring and maroon lipstick. That’s a choice in maybe 1990s.

Where is the classy? Is it in the room with us?

This entire book reads like a fan fiction by a very young person with a small world view and little experience that just kind of makes things up that sounds like being wealthy and cool and sophisticated, but it’s not.

I cannot say this book is not publish ready other than a couple of logical discrepancies. I did not enjoy it. So it’s not for me. I hope other people can enjoy it.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC book from NetGalley

This works well as a romance, but it’s not a good mystery/adventure book . Not enough time is spent on the mystery and the characters barely do any investigation. The more you think about the book, the more you realize it’s not a cohesive story and things don’t make sense. It needs a stronger edit and more chapters dedicated to the mystery. The blurb compares the style to Ilona Andrew books, but I disagree. This is mostly a romance book with some mystery and paranormal world building thrown in, whereas Ilona Andrew books are the opposite.

No active investigation
In a mystery, I expect characters to follow clues, investigate scenes, question suspects, and eliminate possibilities. That doesn’t happen in this book.

• People are going comatose. They never examine the bodies or see if the victims have anything in common. What did the doctors say? What did the magical experts say? What methods failed to cure the comatose people?
• Professor Miller is killed in her apartment. Rose is asked to inventory Miller’s artifacts, but no one ever checks whether anything is missing.
• Rose hasn’t seen Professor Miller in years, yet they never investigate Miller’s recent activities, question coworkers or family, or explore possible enemies beyond Luke.
• An attack occurs at the mayor’s gala. The characters don’t visit the scene, speak to witnesses, or research the mayor.
• Rose is attacked by a group of people in the beginning of the book. There is video footage, but they don’t attempt to identify all of the attackers, track the car’s license plate, or even watch the footage.
• The villains comprise the entire pool of possible suspects. There are no possible red herrings or investigative twists. It’s pretty obviously who the murderer is.
• Rose’s apartment is broken in and her neighbor is murdered in his apartment. Rose assumes Luke did it, but why was her neighbor murdered? They talk about collecting fingerprints. Did it match any fingerprints from Professor Miller’s murder?

A continuity edit needs to happen with the romance.
• At one point in the book, he thinks that he could never be with Rose because she’s a human and he could never trust a human. Later, he says her humanity has nothing to do with it.
• These two passages directly contradict each other:
     • “Even if they were different in so many ways, it was a risk he couldn’t take. That wasn’t going to stop him from fulfilling every dark desire he’d dreamt up. He was what he was, and he would never apologize for it. But when the time came, he would have to let her go”. (Turns out, he’s a virgin)
     • He then refuses to sleep with her and says the opposite. “There is absolutely nothing casual about us. If I take this further, a single step further, there will be no going back… No, it’s simply that I feel too much for you. If I have you, I will own you."
•I never fully understood his hesitation in pursuing her. I also didn’t understand her hesitation in pursuing Bastian either.

Other nitpicks
• Apparently waiters make more than exotic dancers.
• Rose is attacked and finds out Professor Miller has been murdered. Hours later, she’s making out with Bastian.
• Major spoilers: Rose goes after the main villain alone despite having already contacted the police. This results in her getting captured and requiring the police to rescue her.
• Rose ignores texts from friends and her boss for over a day after after being attacked and a dead neighbor is found. 2 pages later, she freaks out when MMC isn’t in his house at 10:30 am and wonders if he was out with a women.

[Serena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rated ⭐⭐⭐½
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC.

Looking for a steamy romp through a world in which supernatural creatures exists, hidden, side-by-side with humans? Bound By The Sleeper's Harp has your back. Perfect for fans of Crescent City! Our cute-but-badass FMC with bubblegum pink hair bumps into a grumpy man in a coffee shop, but all is not what it seems with our MMC... A mysterious escapade through the supernatural underworld - along with some good food and expensive wine - brings our main characters together, but as usual, it's complicated!

A disclaimer: I'm rating this as someone who knew what they were going into. If you're expecting romance, predictable tropes, witty banter and a good bit of spice, this review is for you - and you might be surprised at how much plot there is! If you're wanting a complex fantasy novel with sub-plots, intrigue, and intricate worldbuilding, you'll be disappointed.

Overall? Very fun. The tropes troped and the spice was spicy. I actually preferred Bastian to Rose which was a novelty - perhaps I'm just a grumpy old goblin at heart! You could sense that Mitchell was having fun writing this, creating a world that she would want to live in. I loved our two main characters together, and there were enough moments where I was internally squealing to make this a joyous read.

I will say, the MMC's use of "sugar" had me grinding my teeth. It's my least favourite pet name, I didn't think it fit his character and it was absurdly overused. Perhaps Mitchell has a clear sense of his voice in her head where "sugar" works well; this could just be my own prejudice against the word. The writing is hardly lyrical prose, and at times feels awkward - my ebook is filled with me screaming "CLUNKY WRITING!" in caps in my notes. However, there are plenty of funny moments in which i appreciated Mitchell's imagination, and we're not really here for the writing are we...

I definitely thought there were pacing issues with some parts of the plot, but that may be straying into 'reviewing a serious book' territory, and I wonder if it's really that much of a problem.

Despite my gripes, I really did have fun reading this. It provided some saccharine-sweet escapism on a rainy January weekend.

Rating breakdown
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Impeccable. It's changed me on a molecular level and has become part of my personality. Has that extra something-something that means I'll be raving about this for the rest of forever. Added to my list of all-time favourites.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A delightful read, the writing was great, no complaints. It won't become part of my personality, but I'll recommend it.
⭐⭐⭐½ A delightful read, I really enjoyed it, will recommend; however, there were some problems with either the writing, characterisation, OR pacing.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I enjoyed it, with caveats. Something was missing for me: issues with writing style, copy or line editing, pacing, characterisation. Might still recommend.
⭐️⭐️ Did not enjoy, this wasn't written for me. I either DNF'd or I hate read to find out the conclusion to a particular plot.
⭐️ Thought it was terrible, unsure why anyone would publish it. DNF.

[Sonja · Rating 3 out of 5]

The majority of this book was actually pretty fun. I really enjoyed Bastian's character and even liked Elle for the most part. Especially how she would listen when he asked her to stay inside his house when it was dangerous for her to be out and about by herself. I absolutely hate when the FMC completely disregards what she's asked to do because she thinks she can take care of herself, so this was really refreshing. Oddly enough, it wasn't until the last 25% ish, when you get the climax of the story, that things started veering off and became more eye-rolly and Elle starts acting stupid. I suppose at least she wasn't completely stupid or things would have ended very differently.

So Elle has changed her name and her hair color and wears a pendent that should hide her from her very abusive ex. And it has worked for a while now. But when her old college professor is murdered her new life is about to violently crash down around her. This professor named her as beneficiary for her substantial estate so the family hires Bastian to find her and find out why, and if she had anything to do with the murder. It doesn't take Bastian long to believe her that she had nothing to do with it and when he saves Elle from the ex that has finally tracked her down, he's determined to protect her. And if she's willing to help him solve the case, all the better.

These two are attracted to each other pretty much right away, but both have a painful history that makes neither of them ever pursue a real relationship. Despite that, Elle is having a harder and harder time stopping herself from falling for Bastian because he gives her all sorts of feels and makes her feel good about herself and useful. As for Bastian, he's a goblin and they hoard anything they consider a treasure, and Elle fast became his most important one.

Ends up that there's a lot more going on than just a murdered professor and Elle's ex is smack in the middle of this. Supernaturals that are in a coma are now also being seen elsewhere and more people are being killed. I feel like we get a lot more of these two having sex or eating than actually looking into anything, and that made the ending feel really rushed to me. Like, Bastian gets info on where to find the bad guy, then bad things happens to him, Elle finds him and said info then proceeds to follow it, where bad things happen to her, then all of a sudden the good guys show up right in the nick of time and it's a happy ending. There was a twist as to who the bad guy pulling the strings was, but it wasn't one that makes you go OH MY GAWD, NOT HIM! You know?

All in all, I really did enjoy this book. For me, Bastian is what made this book so good though. Would I read more by this author? It's hard to say. I suppose I would if the book sounded really good, but I wouldn't seek any more out by her.

[Bri BookishDame · Rating 3 out of 5]

Advance e-book recieved by NetGalley:

I’ll start by saying that urban-set romantasy isn’t usually my favorite trope, so it took me a little while to get into. For the first portion of the book, I struggled to fully immerse myself. However, around the 30% mark, the story found its rhythm and I became much more invested.

One of the standout strengths of this book is its character diversity. There is thoughtful representation across race, body types, and sexual orientation, and I truly appreciated seeing that reflected so naturally within the story. It added richness to the cast and made the world feel more inclusive and modern.

That said, I did have some significant issues — particularly with how the romance develops.
The story leans heavily into insta-love (or at least insta-lust), which is already not my favorite trope. While I eventually warmed up to the main couple’s chemistry and enjoyed their banter as the story progressed, the way their relationship begins was difficult for me to find believable.

CAUTION MINOR SPOILER ALERT:

Early on, the male main character saves the female main character’s life — but immediately afterward, he restrains her freedom in several ways and takes her phones away. While his intentions are framed as protective, the lack of consent from the FMC healing from domestic abuse and her being mostly ok with it felt completely unrealistic.

Given her trauma, her relatively quick attraction and growing trust toward a man who physically overpowered her and removed her agency, I expected much stronger alarm bells and a much longer path toward trust.

Especially considering the entire main storyline unfolds over roughly two weeks, it didn’t feel like enough time for someone with her past to genuinely process, heal, and determine whether this pushy, possessive MMC was truly safe.

There are moments near the end that suggest meaningful growth and healing, which I appreciated. The ending leaves the reader feeling cautiously optimistic that real emotional work is beginning — but I wish we had seen more of that development on the page and less honeymoon puppy eyes viewing life through pink glasses.

A few additional critiques:

• The shifting between first and third person POV felt disorienting and unnecessary. It disrupted the emotional flow and made it harder for me to connect equally with both main characters.

• The insta-love dynamic, combined with the condensed timeline, made the romance feel rushed rather than earned.

Overall, I think Melissa Mitchell shows real promise as a storyteller. The world-building ideas and thematic ambition are there, and I would absolutely consider reading more from her in the future. For me, this particular book just felt too rushed — in plot, romance, and emotional exploration — to fully deliver on the depth it was aiming for.

[vic ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley, BooksGoSocial and Melissa Mitchell for allowing me to read an ARC of Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp!

Upon reading the description of Bound by the Sleeper’s Harp, I was instantly enthralled and so excited to read the book. I’m not usually the type to go for paranormal romance, but I ended up really enjoying the plot. There was slightly more spice than I would usually read, but it was to be expected when picking up an “urban fantasy with heat.”

What I really loved was the world and magic system that the author had created. I loved learning about different races and discovering Bastian’s unique abilities within his own. Some pieces of information are left to be desired. I love a good lore dump, and this is more a matter of personal preference, but I would have loved to discover more about the abilities and origins of other races. The artefact system was also really well thought out, and the more we learnt about different artefact abilities, the more I was hooked.

While I did enjoy the writing style, it was a struggle to switch between first and third person in most chapters. There also wasn’t a clear direction of whose chapter we were reading, as a chapter name. I think adding this in would help reading flow easier than expecting to be reading as Elle in first person, then to be thrown into Bastian’s third person without warning.

There were also some terms used in the book that I found quite distracting. Bastian refers to Elle as “little female” or just “female” quite often. I want to say “woman” would be a good alternative if it is needed in the context of the book, but ‘female’ just feels off to me. I also couldn’t get away with the nickname “Sugar”. In my opinion, Sugar is one of those names that only feels right coming from a Southern American accent - and maybe it was, but it didn’t sound right in my head. Again, this is all personal preference, and I don’t think either is a big deal or any reason why someone shouldn’t read this.

One element that made me pause was that, midway through the book, we meet two characters who are something similar to police for the university. While one is described as “heavy-set and pale with auburn shaggy hair,” the other is referred to as “darker-skinned, a medium brown toffee with black hair.” Using food to describe a person of colour’s skin tone felt outdated and somewhat insensitive. This description can make many readers feel uncomfortable, and it’s something that modern society and fiction are steadily moving away from. That said, I don’t believe that there was any harmful intent behind the description, and it is an issue that could easily be resolved with a more thoughtful description.

[Ashley - The Tattered Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖 𝐸-𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌📖

𝐵𝑜𝓊𝓃𝒹 𝒷𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒮𝓁𝑒𝑒𝓅𝑒𝓇’𝓈 𝐻𝒶𝓇𝓅 ʙʏ ᴍᴇʟɪssᴀ ᴍɪ���ᴄʜᴇʟʟ

𝑅𝒶𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔: 🥀🥀🥀🥀 ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ 𝟻 ᴇɴᴄʜᴀɴᴛᴇᴅ ʀᴏsᴇs

𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝑒 𝑅𝒶𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔: 🌶🌶 ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ 𝟻

✨ 𝐻𝑜𝑜𝓀✨

ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴀ ᴡᴏᴍᴀɴ ɪɴ ʜɪᴅɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴄᴏᴍᴇs ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴀʀɢᴇᴛ ᴏғ ᴀ ᴛᴀᴛᴛᴏᴏᴇᴅ ɢᴏʙʟɪɴ ʙᴏᴜɴᴛʏ ʜᴜɴᴛᴇʀ, sʜᴇ’s ғᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛᴇᴀᴍ ᴜᴘ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴠᴇʀʏ ᴍᴀɴ ʜᴜɴᴛɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ᴛᴏ sᴛᴏᴘ ᴀ sᴏᴜʟ-sᴛᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ ᴀʀᴛɪғᴀᴄᴛ—ʙᴇғᴏʀᴇ ʜᴇʀ ʙᴜʀɪᴇᴅ ᴘᴀsᴛ ᴅᴇsᴛʀᴏʏs ᴛʜᴇᴍ ʙᴏᴛʜ.

𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌:

ʜᴜɢᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ʙᴏᴏᴋsɢᴏsᴏᴄɪᴀʟ ғᴏʀ ɢɪғᴛɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜɪs ᴇ-ᴀʀᴄ!

𝒯𝒶𝓉𝓉𝑜𝑜𝑒𝒹 𝑔𝑜𝒷𝓁𝒾𝓃 𝒷𝑜𝓊𝓃𝓉𝓎 𝒽𝓊𝓃𝓉𝑒𝓇. 𝑀𝓊𝓇𝒹𝑒𝓇𝑒𝒹 𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉𝑜𝓇. 𝒮𝑜𝓊𝓁-𝓈𝓉𝑒𝒶𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒶𝓇𝓉𝒾𝒻𝒶𝒸𝓉. 𝒜𝓃𝒹 𝒶 𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑜𝒾𝓃𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓈𝑒𝒸𝓇𝑒𝓉𝓈 𝓈𝒽𝒶𝓇𝓅 𝑒𝓃𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽 𝓉𝑜 𝒸𝓊𝓉.

𝐵𝑜𝓊𝓃𝒹 𝒷𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒮𝓁𝑒𝑒𝓅𝑒𝓇’𝓈 𝐻𝒶𝓇𝓅 ʙʏ ᴍᴇʟɪssᴀ ᴍɪᴛᴄʜᴇʟʟ ᴅᴇʟɪᴠᴇʀs sᴛᴇᴀᴍʏ ᴘᴀʀᴀɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ɢʀɪᴛ, ʙᴀɴᴛᴇʀ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ᴘᴏssᴇssɪᴠᴇ ᴍᴍᴄ ᴡʜᴏ ᴀʙsᴏʟᴜᴛᴇʟʏ ʟᴇᴀɴs ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ “ʙᴜʀɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ᴅᴏᴡɴ ғᴏʀ ʜᴇʀ” ᴇɴᴇʀɢʏ.

ᴏᴜʀ ғᴍᴄ ʜᴀs ʙᴇᴇɴ ɪɴ ʜɪᴅɪɴɢ ғᴏʀ ᴛᴡᴏ ʏᴇᴀʀs, ʀᴇʙᴜɪʟᴅɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ʟɪғᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀ ᴀ ғᴀᴋᴇ ɴᴀᴍᴇ ᴀғᴛᴇʀ ᴀ ᴛʀᴀᴜᴍᴀᴛɪᴄ ᴘᴀsᴛ sʜᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴛʜɪɴɢ. ᴡʜᴇɴ ʜᴇʀ ᴍᴇɴᴛᴏʀ ɪs ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ sᴜᴘᴇʀɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ ᴀʀᴛɪғᴀᴄᴛ ʙᴇɢɪɴs ᴛʀᴀᴘᴘɪɴɢ sᴏᴜʟs ɪɴ ᴇɴᴅʟᴇss sʟᴇᴇᴘ, ʜᴇʀ ᴄᴀʀᴇғᴜʟʟʏ ᴄᴏɴᴛʀᴏʟʟᴇᴅ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ɪᴍᴘʟᴏᴅᴇs—ᴀɴᴅ ʙᴀsᴛɪᴀɴ ᴄʀᴏғᴛ, ᴀ ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ ɢᴏʙʟɪɴ ʙᴏᴜɴᴛʏ ʜᴜɴᴛᴇʀ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʙᴀᴅ-ʙᴏʏ ᴠɪʙᴇs ᴀɴᴅ ᴠᴇʀʏ ɢʀᴇᴇɴ ᴇʏᴇs, ɪs sᴜᴅᴅᴇɴʟʏ ʜᴜɴᴛɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ.

ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʜᴇᴍɪsᴛʀʏ ɪs ɪᴍᴍᴇᴅɪᴀᴛᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇxᴘʟᴏsɪᴠᴇ. ʙᴀsᴛɪᴀɴ ɪs ᴘᴏssᴇssɪᴠᴇ, ᴘʀᴏᴛᴇᴄᴛɪᴠᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ғʟᴇxɪʙʟᴇ ᴡʜᴇɴ ɪᴛ ᴄᴏᴍᴇs ᴛᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ sᴀғᴇ. ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴅʏɴᴀᴍɪᴄ ɪs ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ x ɢᴜᴀʀᴅᴇᴅ sᴜʀᴠɪᴠᴏʀ, ᴡɪᴛʜ sʜᴀʀᴘ ʙᴀɴᴛᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴘᴀʟᴘᴀʙʟᴇ ᴘʜʏsɪᴄᴀʟ ᴛᴇɴsɪᴏɴ ʟᴀʏᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ɢᴇɴᴜɪɴᴇ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ sᴛᴀᴋᴇs. ᴛʜᴇ ғᴍᴄ’s ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏ—ʀᴇᴄʟᴀɪᴍɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ ᴡʜɪʟᴇ ᴄᴏɴғʀᴏɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ɢʜᴏsᴛs ᴏғ ʜᴇʀ ᴘᴀsᴛ—ɢɪᴠᴇs ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴡᴇɪɢʜᴛ ʙᴇʏᴏɴᴅ ᴊᴜsᴛ sᴘɪᴄᴇ.

ᴛʜᴇ ᴜʀʙᴀɴ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ᴇʟᴇᴍᴇɴᴛs sʜɪɴᴇ: sᴜᴘᴇʀɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄs, ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴀʀᴛɪғᴀᴄᴛs, ᴇsᴄᴀʟᴀᴛɪɴɢ ʙᴏᴅʏ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ᴍʏsᴛᴇʀʏ ᴛʜʀᴇᴀᴅᴇᴅ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ. ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀᴄɪɴɢ ᴍᴏᴠᴇs ǫᴜɪᴄᴋʟʏ, ʙᴀʟᴀɴᴄɪɴɢ ᴀᴄᴛɪᴏɴ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʜᴇᴀᴛ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ɢʀᴏᴡᴛʜ. ᴛʜᴇ ᴀʀᴛɪғᴀᴄᴛ ᴘʟᴏᴛ ᴋᴇᴇᴘs ᴛʜᴇ sᴛᴀᴋᴇs ʜɪɢʜ, ᴡʜɪʟᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴅᴇʟɪᴠᴇʀs sᴀᴛɪsғʏɪɴɢ ɪɴᴛᴇɴsɪᴛʏ.

𝒯𝓇𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓈 & 𝒱𝒾𝒷𝑒𝓈:
✨ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴍᴀᴛᴇs
✨sᴜᴘᴇʀɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄs
✨ᴏᴠᴇʀᴄᴏᴍɪɴɢ ᴛʀᴀᴜᴍᴀ
✨ғᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ & ʀᴇʟᴜᴄᴛᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴇᴀᴍᴡᴏʀᴋ
✨ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀ ᴍʏsᴛᴇʀʏ
✨ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴀʀᴛɪғᴀᴄᴛs
✨sʟᴏᴡʙᴜʀɴ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
✨ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴀʀᴛɪғᴀᴄᴛs x sᴜᴘᴇʀɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄs
✨sᴀssʏ ʜᴇʀᴏɪɴᴇ ʀᴇᴄʟᴀɪᴍɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ ғᴍᴄ x ᴘᴏssᴇssɪᴠᴇ ɢᴏʙʟɪɴ ᴡʜᴏ'ʟʟ ʙᴜʀɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ᴅᴏᴡɴ ᴛᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʜᴇʀ sᴀғᴇ ᴍᴍᴄ
✨ғᴀsᴛᴘᴀᴄᴇᴅ + ʜɪɢʜ ᴀᴄᴛɪᴏɴ
✨ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ x ɢᴏʙʟɪɴ
✨ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ x sᴜɴsʜɪɴᴇ
✨ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ & ᴅɪᴇ
✨ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs

𝐹𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓁 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝒹𝒾𝒸𝓉:
ғᴜɴ, ғᴀsᴛ-ᴘᴀᴄᴇᴅ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴇʟɪᴄɪᴏᴜsʟʏ sᴛᴇᴀᴍʏ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀ ғɪᴇʀᴄᴇ ɢᴏʙʟɪɴ ᴘʀᴏᴛᴇᴄᴛᴏʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ʜᴇʀᴏɪɴᴇ ʀᴇᴄʟᴀɪᴍɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ sᴛʀᴇɴɢᴛʜ. ᴀ sᴛʀᴏɴɢ sᴛᴀʀᴛ ғᴏʀ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs ᴡʜᴏ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴘᴀʀᴀɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴅᴀɴɢᴇʀᴏᴜs, ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄᴀʟ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ʟɪᴛᴛʟᴇ ғᴇʀᴀʟ.

ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ!
𝒜𝓈𝒽𝓁𝑒𝓎
ʙᴏᴏᴋsᴛᴀɢʀᴀᴍ: @ᴛʜᴇᴛᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅᴘᴀɢᴇ

[Brooke Maclennan · Rating 3 out of 5]

[ARC REVIEW]

- 3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️

“One look and you’ll bring them to their knees. Only reason I’m not on the floor is I didn’t want to ruin our dinner.”

Considering this was my first goblin romance, I didn’t hate it! I’m trying to branch out with my genres a little bit and try something new, what else is better to start with than handsome, tattooed goblins?

This one was interesting, it really gripped me in the beginning with the storyline and the suspense. The idea of a goblin bounty hunter x human meet cute was not on my radar, until now. I loved Bas & Elle’s relationship, from being inconvenienced by each other to trusting them with their life was such a great progression. Their banter and the sass between them was great, I loved that Elle stood her ground with Bas and kept him in line and how Bas helped Elle get her confidence back.

Having supernaturals and humans living in the same spaces as each other was super fun, getting to see how they interacted and lived their lives was enlightening. Especially in this type of setting, city life and nightlife and the differences between day and night, how drastically things changed over a few hours.

The premise of this book started off really strong and I was fully invested in the plot and the relationship between the fmc and mmc. However, I do feel like somewhere in the middle it kind of fell off a little bit. I think because Elle’s pov was in first person and Bastian’s was in third person, that kept pulling me out of the story. I felt like my brain was fighting to keep up with what was going on and I had to go back and read a page to figure it out. I don’t know if maybe the plot kind of got lost in the romance or what but I just didn’t feel connected to the story after the half way mark. The mmc calling the fmc ‘sugar’ every second sentence really didn’t help either. I liked it but I didn’t love it, kind of got bored eventually and it was just more about finishing the book than actually enjoying the story. Again, the book had a strong start but I just think it ended up more about the main characters getting together than anything else.

Maybe goblin romances just aren’t for me or it might’ve just been the wrong time. If you’re a fan of this type of book I would try it out because it may be your cup of tea.

Careful reminder to always check the TW before starting a book!

Thank you so much to Melissa and NetGalley for the eARC.

[Hannah Haseley · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5stars rounded up!

This was super cute, while also being far steamier than I had thought it would be. I sort of thought it would be more rom-con esque based on the cover and it did have many elements of that but it definitely went beyond that, which I actually think is a reason why it isn't a 4 star read for me.

Bastian Croft is a fantastic book boyfriend. He's a broody goblin whose sworn off dating and all things romance who meets a human girl with secrets who captivates him. Eleanor, or Rose, or Elle, really is the spunky heroine who has been hurt before and has spent time rebuilding herself after trauma. They get pushed together due to a a murder that they can help each other solve. Premise is pretty fun and overall, this is such a super solid fun time.

I just wish that it would have stayed super fun? I know that doesn't make much sense but it felt like this book was so firmly in the rom-con, fun, supernatural murder mystery with great smut but then it kept wanting to be more. It tried to go dark a few times (like not even backstory wise) but like, I'm not sure how to describe it. The world building was flat and often times confusing but the biggest pet peeve of mine was how the creatures really didn't matter.

Like, this exact plotline could be about any type of creature. It could be about humans with a few minor tweaks. The supernatural element of the story felt rather forced and ill thought out. Maybe this is because I love supernatural stories. Give me lore. Give me creatures. Give me WHY this is important. I really missed that element.

That being said, obviously, I liked this book. I loved the characters. I loved their banter. The smut scenes were fun to read (although I hate when the action gets going in the plot and then its two chapters of smut before the characters act on anything and this book does do that just fyi). I just thought it was a light read that made me smile and have a good time, which is honestly the biggest thing when reading isn't it? Like, was it perfect? No. Did I have a great time reading it and will I want to read more by this author? Absolutely. In fact, I really hope their craft keeps going because so much of this book was just delightful that it makes me very excited to see more!


***Thank you so much to Netgalley, Melissa Mitchell, and the publisher for an ARC of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own!***