Double Stuffed

by Daphne Leigh

When physical therapist Eloise Godfrey responds to a job posting offering obscene money to treat a "dragon shifter client," she knows it's probably insane. But with her mother's Alzheimer's treatment costing eight thousand dollars a month, insane is all she's got left.

Billionaire Drake Von Brandt is everything she wasn't prepared devastatingly beautiful, dangerously powerful, and fresh out of a ten-year prison sentence for killing another dragon. The scars she's supposed to treat tell a story of violence she can barely comprehend. The way he looks at her tells a different story entirely.

She's supposed to keep it professional. He's supposed to keep his distance. But every session blurs the line between healer and something far more dangerous—and Drake's enhanced dragon senses mean he knows exactly what she's feeling. Every. Single. Time.

As forced proximity ignites into something neither can control, Eloise discovers that loving a dragon means entering a world of ancient rivalries, fated mates, and a bond that could consume them both.

Double Stuffed is a steamy standalone monster romance featuring a possessive alpha dragon shifter, a heroine who refuses to back down, forbidden attraction, dual anatomy (yes, really), and enough heat to melt steel. HEA guaranteed.

Genres: Forced Proximity, Erotica

409 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2026

Reviews

[Kelsey reviews•books · Rating 2 out of 5]

The premise for this sounded really intriguing. I think what didn’t work for me was the layout of the plot. It felt repetitive and drawn out. After four times of Drake saying “Are you sure you know what you’re getting yourself into?” I was frustrated. Eloise clearly knew. And I feel that when the MMC is already in love with the FMC at 16%, it loses some of the tension that I think the author was trying to build with the spice. There was emotional depth, but it didn’t really hit until the second half of the book. I also couldn’t tell you if the first 30% of the book was one week or one month because it just felt like a continuous scene where Eloise shows up, they have a “will they won’t they” moment, she leaves, then comes back the next day on repeat for several chapters.


It was still interesting to learn about the dragon part and drakes history, but needed overall refinement to keep my interests piqued.

Spice: A lot and explicit (including toys and blood)
Content warnings: stretching (iykyk), blood play

[Bridget Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Double Stuffed is another gem of a book by Daphne Leigh!! Her stories are unique and this one was no different! Eloise is a strong woman trying to help her mother and survive! In comes Drake needing help as well but I feel he helps Eloise too. They have an instant connection and it’s hot 🥵 🔥💜 For me there was a very short part that triggered my emotions but I was able to read through it. It wasn’t as bad as I first thought. I don’t want to spoil it but it’s a head injury and subsequent head surgery-I recently lost my mom to this so it was more emotional than anything.
Anyways-great story❗️hot sexy scenes 🥵 as usual! ENJOY!!
I was so honored to receive the ARC for this book!! Thank you!

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was drawn in to this book immediately!!! The spice level!!! Phew!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Loved it!

The slow burn tension... from the first meeting.... they both were immediately drawn to each other.... Drake, of course, being a dragon shifter can smell her... (of course he can!)

While I do love the spice level.... I also appreciated the story and found there to be a good balance.

Loved this (a conversation after Drake played a song for her on the piano...): "'It sounds like longing,' she says quietly. 'Like someone waiting for something they're not sure they'll ever have.' ... I don't tell her the melody started the week she began treating me (as a physical therapist, she's spent a lot of time massaging his back). That it surfaced the first time she put her hands on my scars and didn't flinch."

This is the first book I've read about a dragon shifter (how is this possible?? I know! Need more!!)... definitely a new favorite!

This is book 2 in the Primal Bonds series. I have not read Book 1, but want to now!! They are interconnected standalones.

Thank you to the author (Daphne Leigh), publisher (Marble City Press, LLC) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Jessica Beumer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent an ARC of Double Stuffed, and as always, Daphne Leigh delivers a story that pulls you in within the first few pages. Her writing style immediately immerses you in the world and makes it hard to stop reading once you start.

The story follows Eloise Godfrey, a physical therapist desperate enough to accept a highly questionable — but extremely well-paid — job treating a dragon shifter client. With her mother’s Alzheimer’s treatment costing a fortune, she has little choice but to step into a world she never believed existed. Enter Drake Von Brandt: a billionaire dragon shifter fresh out of prison, powerful, dangerous, and far more complicated than Eloise expects.

What begins as a professional arrangement quickly turns into something much deeper as forced proximity, emotional tension, and undeniable chemistry blur the lines between healer and patient. Leigh balances romance, danger, and supernatural intrigue well, weaving in themes of fated mates, ancient rivalries, and emotional vulnerability beneath the steamier elements of the story.

[Rhian Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book the connection between drake and eloise was out of this world, there is so much love and emoion throughout its so well written, the reason for the 4 stars was I wanted more from the ending I wasnt ready for their story to finish when it did and was a bit dissapointed there wasnt more, saying this you wont be dissapointed with this book.

[Felicia Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was incredible! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. It consumed me. Drake and Eloise are match for match on passion. He’s possessive and she’s insatiable. They are the perfect match. I could easily read more about his family history. It was fascinating. I’m so glad Daphne Leigh always makes me cry with her beautiful love stories. What I love about this book is how much Drake pays attention to what Eloise likes or needs. The fearlessness of Eloise taking care of such a man. I love how you can see her passion for her work and her dedication to getting where she is now. Strong FMC and all consuming passion MMC. Loved this!

[Katia Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know why more people don’t know about this author! Well let me introduce you to Daphne Leigh! I’ve tea every single book she’s written and eqch book gets more amazing! I loved double stuffed. It made my heart hurt for the beautiful man/dragon and his mate who accepted him in every way. It was so sweet and so spicy just how I like my books! The scenes with her mom made me cry so much. I’m so sad it ended and tho I love her why choose stories I hope she writes more shifter ones!!
Highly highly recommend ♥️

[Joi · Rating 5 out of 5]

My book challenge required a possessive hero so I stumbled across this ARC and it fit the bill, even though it’s not what I normally read but MAN, I am glad I picked it up!

Leave it to Daphne Leigh to make a book that had approximately no conflict, aside from the fact that he’s a “monster” so intriguing and definitely sexy. Both MCs are smart, thoughtful and down bad for each other from the start.

With the introduction of Drake’s (our MMC dragon-shifter) past, I was expecting a web of dragon lore and blood feuds but was pleasantly surprised when the book focused on the romance instead. It was a welcome change from a lot of world building fantasies that get overly obsessed with those things.

If you’re looking for a quick, super spicy read that is well written, pick this one up!

Thanks to #Netgalley & Marble City Press for the ARC!!

[Nat Top · Rating 2 out of 5]

that was... something. and not in a good way. my main qualms is that it was unnecessarily lengthy and there was no interesting plot. I thought there might be some good climax with the "bad" dragon but it lacked so hard. the main point of the story was him building her up to fit both his giant dragon dicks. I was honestly done with it all by 50% and decided to skim the rest. it was too detailed for the lack of interesting plot. felt repetitive. I'm trying to think of something I liked but I can't.

[SaresSpicyReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet and slow.
The beginning felt a bit like fifty shades of grey, with the billionaire and the ‘contract’. Yes obviously very very different plots-just similar. The first half of the book left me wanting more from both characters. I didn’t think it needed to be double POV. The tiny climax near the end felt a bit meh, I was hoping for more. Overall it was cute, not what I was expecting. First monster romance and I am pleasantly surprised. She did mention how he smelled, at least 30 times throughout the book, which felt overkill. Annnddd the tampon scene was…. A bit too much for me tbh.🫣

4/5🌶️
Dual POV
First Person

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!

[Julie Simpkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
The title says it all honestly, haha!

At times it got repetitive with him asking if she was sure a lot, but I get it. He’s a lot, plus he has some emotional trauma.

I had a couple of unanswered questions that never got resolved.

But it’s overall a spicy and different take on urban fantasy and dragon shifters.

[Annalee (annalees_reading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I discovered Daphne Leigh's writing with this book, and I really enjoyed the story and the whole atmosphere of the book. I'd still say that I thought the rhythm was a bit too fast, in my opinion. I get the instant love, but the constant come-and-go between the main characters was sometimes hard to follow. Overall, a really great book I would recommend to any monster romance lovers (here dragon type)!

[Caitlin Stephenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent an ARC for this book. What a great addition to Daphne’s growing collection of books. I love her smooth, detailed writing style. Getting to learn both characters inside and out. The amount of detail Daphne puts into her books makes them longer books but her writing style grabs and holds your attention. 100 pages can fly by and feel like only 10. Enjoy!

[Mel ࿓ ♡ ⋆｡˚ · Rating 3 out of 5]

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮?

Double Stuffed: A Primal Bonds Romance by Daphne Leigh is a 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 that blends urban fantasy, emotional tension and a forbidden attraction that grows in the fragile space between danger and trust.
The story follows Eloise, a physical therapist who accepts an unusual and potentially dangerous job working for Drake Von Brandt, a powerful dragon shifter who lives surrounded by wealth, secrecy and old rivalries. What begins as a professional arrangement slowly turns into something far more complicated,
because the closeness required by their sessions forces both of them to confront boundaries that are not only physical, but emotional as well.
Eloise is an interesting protagonist precisely because of her contradictions.
She is pragmatic, determined and grounded, yet clearly shaken by the intensity of the world she steps into.
Drake, on the other hand, embodies the classic dominant hero of 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, but with an unexpected nuance.
Beneath the power and primal instinct there is a man deeply aware of consent and restraint, constantly conscious of the imbalance between what he is and what she risks by staying close to him.
The atmosphere moves between quiet, intimate moments and highly sensual scenes typical of a 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, with the narrative focusing more on chemistry and emotional tension than on a complex external plot. At times the story feels fast and leaves the reader wishing for a deeper exploration of the characters’ pasts, yet the dynamic between Drake and Eloise remains the real core of the novel.
An urban fantasy romance about instinct, vulnerability and the strange intimacy of being truly seen. But when attraction and danger become so deeply intertwined, can control ever truly last?

Double Stuffed sits firmly in the territory of 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡-𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, where the emotional and physical connection between the protagonists becomes the real driving force of the narrative.
The pacing of the novel is relatively fast and largely centered around the interactions between Eloise and Drake. Many scenes revolve around their encounters and the gradual escalation of tension between them, particularly during the therapy sessions that force them into close proximity.
This structure makes the book extremely readable and immersive, but it also means the plot itself remains fairly straightforward.
The story focuses more on atmosphere, chemistry and emotional pull than on complex world-building or intricate external conflicts.
Readers who enjoy 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫-𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 will likely appreciate this approach, while those looking for a more layered fantasy plot may feel that certain elements deserved more development.
What stands out most is the dynamic between the protagonists. Drake fits the archetype of the powerful and dominant paranormal hero, yet he is portrayed with a strong emphasis on restraint and respect. His repeated attention to Eloise’s comfort and consent gives their relationship an emotional maturity that feels refreshing within a trope that can sometimes lean toward possessiveness without boundaries.
Eloise, meanwhile, balances vulnerability with determination. She can appear cautious and reserved, yet also surprisingly sharp and direct.
This contrast creates a compelling tension with Drake’s intensity, allowing their relationship to evolve through curiosity, attraction and emotional vulnerability rather than pure dominance.

From a stylistic perspective, Daphne Leigh’s writing leans heavily into sensory detail and emotional atmosphere.
The narrative often focuses on physical awareness, proximity and the subtle shifts in power between the characters.
Because of this, the novel will likely appeal most to readers who enjoy 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 with explicit scenes, yet still want those moments to be connected to genuine emotional tension.
At the same time, some readers may feel that parts of the story move too quickly or leave certain narrative threads only partially explored. Drake’s past, his rivalries and the broader dragon-shifter world are hinted at throughout the story but never fully expanded. This occasionally creates the sense that the novel could have benefited from additional space to explore these elements in greater depth.
Ultimately, Double Stuffed works best as a 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩-𝐟𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 where chemistry, tension and emotional vulnerability take center stage. It is less about epic fantasy stakes and more about the complicated intimacy that develops between two people who, realistically, should probably stay far away from each other.
For readers who enjoy intense character dynamics, high sensuality and a paranormal setting built around instinct and attraction, this book can be a fast and engaging read.


Thank you to the author (Daphne Leigh), publisher (Marble City Press, LLC) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[B Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.

Eloise is a human physical therapist, she fills out an application online for a very private client and when she arrives to his penthouse she finds more than she is expecting. Drake is a wealthy dragon shifter who has lived a lonely life only being viewed as a monster.

Listen, this is dragon shifter smut. If that is what you are looking for that is what you will get. What I was not expecting was for it to also be incredibly beautiful. It was well written and and spicy. Both characters are looking for someone to choose them. Eloise wants to be put first like she does for everyone else in her life instead of being convenient. Drake wants someone to see the man behind the wings and claws.

Personal preference but I am not a fan on the insta love trope. Granted, this did take place over 3 months so not immediately but that still feels too fast to me, especially in a modern day setting. I give leeway when it's a fantasy book though.

Not a criticism but the double penis was new to me. I kept getting pulled out of it trying to think about the logistics of it. I'm sure if you've read something like that before it would be fine. They also worked up to it which I did enjoy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm not going to cry over a man holding my hand in a parking lot, but the steadiness of it, the way he holds me like I'm worth being careful with, turns a key I didn't know was locked.

She's the first person in longer than I can remember who makes silence feel like company instead of solitary confinement.

I don't tell her the melody started the week she began treating me. That it surfaced the first time she put her hands on my scars and didn't flinch. That I've been composing it in my head during every session, translating the weight of being touched by someone who isn't afraid of me into chord progressions and minor keys.

Each pass of his fingers feels like a vow

I'm lost, utterly and irrevocably. And the worst part is that I don't want to be found.

He drinks it down like he's been starving for it.

I spend every second you're in the room trying not to tear you apart. . . I can't even draw a clean breath because you're all I can taste.

I want to speak, but he's looking at me like I'm the only real thing in his world.

You make me feel human. . . When you touch me thr monster goes quiet and I feel like a man again. I feel like someone who might actually deserve something good.

It's me. That's the problem. I need to smell like him. To carry him on me like proof.

I don't just want the sex. I need to be chosen. Not because I'm convenient or a name on a schedule, but because I'm the one who makes him come apart at the seams.

Then I take you apart. . . Piece by piece. Until there's nothing left but need. And when you're begging for more, I'll put you back together. My way.

My body has left the building. My body is currently over the Pacific. My body does not have an estimated return time.

I'd stopped wanting anything. . . Before you, I'd stopped reaching. For anything. And then you walked into that room and put your hands on me and I. . . I remembered what it felt like to be alive.

She tastes like she was made to dismantle me.

Watching her come undone quiets the beast. She is ours to protect. To please. To keep.

For the first time in my life, being owned doesn't feel like a cage. It feels like coming home.

Everything. Everything I have, everything I am, everything I could ever become. She'll never want for anything as long as I'm breathing.

You're mine now. . . And I'm yours until this body turns to ash. . . And in whatever comes after that. Every life, every world, I will find my way back to you.

You could be barren as stone or give me a dozen children. I'd love you exactly the same. You're not a condition of my future. You are my future. You and me. That's enough. That's everything.

You look like a fucking goddess, Eloise. You look like mine. . . Like the reason I survived.

I choose you. . . In the light. In the dark. In the waiting rooms. Over and over and over again.

[Sonja · Rating 2 out of 5]

I requested this book because I thought it was going to be exciting and fun. It was not. At the beginning, I was absolutely hooked. But then around 40% (I think) it just petered out. It started reading like a contemporary romance that wanted to be a paranormal romance so they made the male a dragon with extra parts. Literally every other story point was shoved to the background or completely disregarded at this point and the sole focus became about how obsessed these two were with each other and what had to be done before they could come together.

Drake is our dragon and he has recently been released from prison after he killed the guy that murdered his parents. During that fight his back got clawed up real bad from the other dragon and never healed right. He's been trying to find a physical therapist to help him but none of them ever work out for a multitude of reasons. Eloise is desperate for money to be able to pay for experimental treatment for her mother. When she comes across Drake's ad it could be exactly what she needs so she's determined not to blow it.

So these two are instantly attracted to each other from the very first moment but they do their best to keep things professional between the two of them. For a short time anyway. A very short time. Then it's dates and dinners and Eloise wanting to dive head first into a forever kind of relationship with a dragon she just met. We get no more of Drake's therapy sessions so I guess he's been completely fixed, occasionally we remember that Eloise is even there in the first place because of her mom, and we get the absolute worst (and shortest) attempt at dragon revenge I have EVER read. Oh and we get a lot of sex. Not of the two of them actually coming together with each other though because Eloise has to be uh prepared to take both of Drake at once. Which, yeah, okay, was hot. And once they get to that point they don't stop. But I did get annoyed about how that was becoming literally all that Eloise could think about. She couldn't even go an entire dinner without wanting Drake to take her.

The ending was very meh and wholesome. Honestly, I didn't really care how things ended up at this point because I was so bored with the story and was just happy to finally have finished.

[Cheyenne Oleson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Double Stuffed by Daphne Leigh is a wild, steamy, and completely over-the-top monster romance that fully commits to its chaos—and honestly, that’s what makes it so addictive.

From the very start, the stakes feel heavy. Eloise isn’t just stepping into a strange job—she’s doing it out of desperation, trying to afford her mother’s Alzheimer’s care, which adds an emotional weight that grounds the story in something real. Then you throw in Drake—an ex-imprisoned dragon shifter with a violent past and a presence that practically burns through the page—and things escalate fast.

The tension between them is immediate and intense. The forced proximity works really well here, especially with Drake’s heightened senses picking up on everything Eloise feels. It creates this constant push-pull dynamic that’s equal parts magnetic and dangerous. Their relationship isn’t soft or gentle—it’s consuming, possessive, and very much rooted in that darker, primal energy.

And yes… this book absolutely leans into its spice. It’s bold, unapologetic, and not afraid to go all in on the monster romance elements (you’ve been warned 👀). If you’re here for something tame, this is not it—but if you want something intense, a little unhinged, and very steamy, it delivers.

The only reason this wasn’t a full 5 stars for me is that some parts of the plot felt a bit rushed or overshadowed by the romance and heat. I would’ve loved just a little more development in the world-building and external conflict.

Overall, this was a dark, fast-paced, and seriously spicy read that knows exactly what it is and doesn’t hold back. If you’re into possessive alpha energy, fated mates, and high-heat monster romance, this one is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you to NetGalley and Marble City Press LLC for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Mary Kirkland · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eloise needs money to help her mother with a new memory care treatment, so she answers an ad for a physical therapist that pays really well. Only thing is, the client is a dragon shifter, and it could be dangerous. She's scared when she first meets Drake, but she knows she can help him. Drake has some serious injuries from fighting another dragon. The injuries didn't heal well while he was in prison and he's always in pain.

Eloise gets to work and Drake can feel the difference right away; he also feels a pull towards Eloise. She sees him, not the dragon, the CEO or the Billionaire, she sees him. He feels a strong pull towards her and so does his dragon half. It's not easy being professional around her but he has to because if he doesn't keep the dragon caged and he shifts, he might hurt her and he doesn't want to do that.

Eloise and Drake end up spending a lot of time together and they both feel the pull towards each other. So, when Drake asks her out socially, she accepts because she wants to spend more time with him. As they get closer and Eloise researches more about dragon shifter anatomy so she can help him, she finds out more than she thought she would. Turns out that dragon shifters have dual appendages. *Use your imagination* So if a human wants to be with a dragon shifter, she has to get used to that. The spice level in this book was off the charts.

This book focused on their relationship and romance for the most part. So, there is a lot of spice and sexy time. The sex is very explicit, and they visit an adult toy store to do some shopping. It was fun and these two know how to set fire to the pages, that's for sure.

The ending was good and I'm glad these two found each other.

Disclosure: I was given an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why date a regular billionaire when you could date one who comes with built in central heating?

You know those books where the main character walks into the room and the temperature immediately goes up about ten degrees? Yeah… that’s this book. Because the MMC isn’t just rich, powerful, and dangerously charming… he’s a rich, powerful, and dangerously charming dragon shifter.

And let me tell you — the billionaire dragon energy in this story is unreal. Possessive. Protective. Smoldering like he’s got actual fire in his veins (because… well… he does). Every scene with Drake had me like sir please calm down while also hoping he absolutely would not calm down. 😮‍🔥

The chemistry in this book is ridiculous in the best way. The tension builds, the flirting is bold, and Drake brings that perfect mix of dominance, devotion, and barely-contained heat that makes paranormal romance so addictive. The man may run empires, but when it comes to Eloise? Let’s just say his priorities become very clear. Especially when he puts a priority on *preparing* her to take both of him. Yeah. You read that right. BOTH 🍆🍆 of him 🥵.

My standards are now unrealistic.
Where is my protective dragon man with a treasure hoard and zero chill? No seriously? Where can I get one?

The thing with Daphine Leigh is that the girl can write tension and spice. After reading her Love Sequence series I knew exactly what to expect when this work of art showed up in my email as an ARC. I love Daphne’s writing and if her name is on the cover, I’m gonna read it!

If you love

🐉BilionaireXPhysical Therapist
🐉Possessive Alpha MMC
🐉Heroine who refuses to back down
🐉Forbidden love
🐉Dual anatomy (The book is called double stuffed for a reason)
🐉Knotting
🐉Touch Her and Die

This book is for you!

[jadebookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Double Stuffed – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5 spice)

Thank you to NetGalley and Daphne for the ARC, I really appreciate the opportunity to read this!
Double Stuffed is book 2 in the Primal Bonds Trilogy, but it can definitely be read as a standalone.

Tropes:
Billionaire CEO
Dragon shifter
Dual anatomy
Fated mates
Forbidden love
Forced proximity

What I liked:
I really enjoyed the overall concept, especially the dynamic between a human FMC and a dragon shifter MMC. It’s such a fun mix of fantasy and romance, and it worked really well here.
There’s a lot of spice in this book, which I know might put some people off, but honestly… the title tells you exactly what you’re getting into. I actually liked the buildup to it and thought those scenes were written well, even if they felt a little repetitive in places.
The character development was another highlight for me. You get to know both main characters quite quickly, including their backgrounds and family histories, which added a nice emotional layer to the story.
If you’re into spicy reads and love shifter romances, this is definitely one I’d recommend.

What I didn’t love:
At times, the story felt a bit repetitive, especially in certain scenes.
There’s also a lot of buildup around Drake’s enemy throughout the book, but the resolution felt really rushed and a bit underwhelming, like it wrapped up almost too quickly after all that tension.
I also would have loved more detail around Drake’s dragon shifting. It felt slightly glossed over when it could have been a really powerful moment.

Overall:
A fun, spicy shifter romance with a strong concept and likeable characters, even if a few elements felt rushed or repetitive.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Double Stuffed by Daphne Leigh
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
I was immediately drawn to Double Stuffed by its stunning cover art and the promise of a forbidden love trope. This story follows Drake and Eloise as they navigate the difficult journey of healing from past traumas while finding a way to be together.
What I Loved:
• Healthy Dynamics: What stood out most was the portrayal of healing without toxicity. It was refreshing to see a consent king like Drake. He is incredibly strong-willed but remains the most respectful male lead I’ve encountered.
• The Leads: Eloise is a balance of shy and sharp-tongued, driven by a commitment to saving her mother. Watching her and Drake challenge each other to grow was the highlight of the book.
• The Heat Factor: For readers looking for spice, this book has it! The spicy scenes are incredibly detailed, high-heat, and leave nothing to the imagination.
Constructive Feedback: While I loved the characters, I felt the plot was somewhat rushed, which diminished the overall impact of their journey. I truly wish this had been a duology! I found myself craving more of their backstories. Specifically, more about Drake’s heated rivalries and his past, as well as more insight into Eloise’s childhood and previous relationships. Having that extra depth would have made it easier to fully fall in love with them.
Final Verdict: A great choice for fans of respectful yet intense heroes and high-spice forbidden romance. I look forward to seeing what Daphne Leigh writes next!

[Christina Ginilo · Rating 1 out of 5]

1⭐️ so frustrating.

The first 30% of the book is the same over and over again. The second 30% of the book is the same over and over again. This was so repetitive. The MMC is constantly questioning the FMC if she’s sure about getting it on with him even though he’s a dragon, and the FMC is constantly reassuring him even though internally she’s like “omg I’m getting it on with a dragon”. By 50% of the way through this book I was skipping so much. At first the tension and the longing between the two was so fun but I quickly learned that each chapter was essentially the same thing over and over. Even the spice got boring!! Over and over again of Drake “prepping” her, and Eloise being shocked every time. I found myself literally rolling my eyes at these two wondering if they were the ones suffering from Dementia, not just Eloise’s mom.

Time lines were weird. I couldn’t tell how much time had passed yet at the same time things dragged forever. Also, some major plot holes made no sense at all. How do you imprison a dragon? How old is Drake? At one point Eloise randomly mentions she’s worked for rich people before? How does that fit into how old she is and her tiny little studio? There’s one conflict scene and we barely get anything from it.

Ugh. I really only forced myself to finish this because I havnt successfully completed an ARC in so long.

This review is entirely my own in exchange for the complementary ARC from NetGalley and Marble City Press

[Monmonreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very beginning, I was hooked on Drake and Eloise’s story. Eloise is such a strong heroine. She is trying to hold everything together while dealing with the heartbreaking reality of her mother’s Alzheimer’s treatment, and you can really feel the weight she carries. When she takes the job treating a dragon shifter for an unbelievable amount of money, you know things are about to get wild.

Drake is everything you want in a possessive dragon shifter hero—mysterious, powerful, scarred, and completely obsessed with Eloise. After spending ten years in prison, he carries so much pain and darkness, but underneath all of that, you can see how deeply he cares. The chemistry between Drake and Eloise is immediate, and every physical therapy session had so much tension that I could not stop reading.

I loved the forced proximity, the fated mates aspect, and the way Eloise never backed down even when Drake was intimidating. Their relationship felt emotional as well as intense, and I loved watching Drake slowly let his walls down around her.

The dragon shifter world was so fun, and the mix of danger, romance, and suspense kept me turning the pages. If you enjoy possessive alpha heroes, monster romance, strong heroines, and stories with lots of tension and heart, then Double Stuffed is definitely one to add to your TBR.

[Brandi Duncan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this arc on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity.

I honestly truly enjoyed this story. I really liked both of our main characters who can't be more different. Opposites truly do attract. You have a head strong leading lady who is struggling trying to survive for not just herself but her mother who is losing her memory but there is hope for a new treatment that could change her life. Only problem is price. As a mother's girl I truly respect her for doing what she needs to help her mother get better. She applies for a job. Thats where we meet are dragon shifter who badly needs her help. I won't ruin the story from here but its obviously a romance book so we all know where it's going. I will say it is very smutty. So if thats your cup of tea then drink away. Only downside in my opinion is fact that for majority of the book its like their in a bubble. Rarely getting a peak outside of their relationship which can be a pro or con. I would definitely recommend this book though. It was first book I've read from this author and id definitely check her other books out.

[BaddyBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Marble City Press for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.

Eloise needs to pay her mother’s medical bills. Her plan? Respond to a job posting looking for an “experienced physical therapist for dragon shifter client.” Yup, dragon shifter. Dragon shifters, known to ruthlessly burn everything to ash, also need medical treatment for chronic muscle tension in this erotic novel by Daphne Leigh.

The dragon shifter in need? His name is Drake. He’s just your run of the mill rich CEO with a past murder charge, prison history, and really good looks. Oh and two, well…YOU KNOW WHATS, (if you catch my drift).

This is a well written novel that delivers exactly what it promises, paranormal erotica. If you opened Double Stuffed expecting Pride and Prejudice, that’s on you.

This book is no plot all smut, but that’s what erotica is. For me, it delivered what it came to do, which was make me laugh in its absolute absurdity, but don’t expect much else.

3/5 overall
4/5 spice

[AnnaTheBookBabe · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 3.5/5
Dual POV
Monster romance
He falls first
Fated mates
Literal smut
Slow burn (kinda)
Possessive MMC
Touch her and die
🌶️ 4.5/5

I mean this is exactly what I expected it to be. I’m currently sick and wanted something that was EASY to read and this hit the mark for me. Like is it a literary masterpiece? Obviously not. But is the story bingable and smutty? Ya. For sure ya.
DO NOT READ THIS BOOK EXPECTING ANYTHING OTHER THAN A SMUT-HEAVY PLOT. YOU WILL NOT LIKE IT.
That being said, if you’re looking for a tall, dark, handsome, double-🍆, dragon shifter man, this is the book for you. 🥵
I’ve seen some things here and there saying this is the second book in a series (I’m not 100% sure one way or another), but if it is, you do not need to read its predecessor at all. This functions perfectly well as a standalone.

Things I didn’t love:
- there were weird time jumps and I wasn’t sure how much time had passed
- dialogue was redundant at times (ex: “are you sure you know what you’re getting into?”)
- possibly longer than it needs to be but 🤷🏼‍♀️

[Michelle Peralta · Rating 2 out of 5]

The premise of this really pulled me in, but the execution just didn’t work for me. The first chunk of the book felt repetitive and dragged out—same cycle over and over with Eloise showing up, tension building, then resetting. It made the pacing feel off, and I honestly couldn’t tell how much time was even passing.
Drake constantly questioning if she “knew what she was getting into” got frustrating fast—especially since she clearly did. And having him basically all-in so early killed a lot of the tension that the story seemed to be aiming for.
There is some emotional depth and interesting backstory, especially with the dragon elements, but it doesn’t really hit until much later. By then, I was already losing interest. The plot itself felt thin, and what should’ve been a bigger, more exciting climax just didn’t deliver.
Overall, it felt overly long for what little actually happened. I ended up skimming by the halfway point, which is never a great sign. There were a few interesting ideas here, but it definitely needed tighter pacing and a stronger plot to keep me invested.

[Ashlyn Juillerat · Rating 3 out of 5]

the concept of this book is interesting- i have never been a monster/shifter romance enjoyer, but that doesn’t mean i wont give it a try. now, that being said, i’m giving it three stars because it’s… a book! there is a clear plot and a romantic arc and characters and conflict. however, i feel that the world building could have been much better, i noted multiple continuity errors, and (in my opinion) the writing lacked a certain sense of personality. i just feel like there are some aspects of this story which require more context than is written on the page. also, in the epilogue he flips her from her back over onto her stomach after already having been inside her with his two peens which (because they are stacked one on top of the other) means that the peen that was in the back door just went in the front door without being cleaned which i think is icky and really took me out of it, AND THEN HE FLIPS HER BACK OVER AND DOES IT AGAIN! i am mourning the health of her vaginal flora.

[Fedythereader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and the publisher, Marble City Press, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley!!

“I’ve never wanted anyone as badly as I want you … But if I touch you now, I won’t be able to stop”

Hot spicy and intense. Definitely a long read for a good, exciting time. I liked it a lot. I understand this is part of a series and I’m really curious to see what the author has done with other books! I’m intrigued and definitely enthusiastic about it and the dragon shifter romance is always one I’m looking for. This time around the relationship between Drake and Eloise is intense and so sweet. It feels like they are made for one another from the very beginning and I have to admit that I don’t mind an insta love every once in a while. And damn, that dragon knows what he is doing!!! Can’t complain considering what he made me feel !!!! I’m happy I read this book !!!

“You’re out of your mind”
“Only when it comes to you”

“Good girl”

[KDY · Rating 4 out of 5]

Double Stuffed by Daphne Leigh. This is the second book in the Primal Bonds Romance series. 409 pages. I gave it a solid 4/5 stars with 4.5/5 chili peppers for spice.
Tropes: dragon shifter paranormal romance, obsessive and possessive as only a dragon can do, HEA, Spicy moments include or/vag/an/DP and toys with praise and training, knotting.
Eloise is a PT who takes Drake on as a client. Blake, a billionaire dragon shifter recently released from jail is a fine morally grey MMC who is a billionaire, has 2 "pickles" but possibly the hottest attribute he has is that he cooks for her! There's yearning and then when it happens, the spice is spicing--hard!
While the title is a little on the nose, and it's filled with tons of spicy moments, there's all the feels there, too. I was taken by the passage of the first time he shifts fully and flies with Eloise on his back. I would read more of this couple.