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Wrong Move, Right Monster #2
Never Text a Minotaur
She wanted a ladder. She got a minotaur.
Clara Bellweather’s professional life is a meticulously organized system of color-coded calendars, perfectly cataloged books, and emergency backup bookmarks. Unfortunately, her personal life is a chaotic mess of tripping over air and failed online dates.
In desperate need of a ladder for the annual spring reading event, Clara does what any socially awkward librarian would do—she texts her handsome new neighbor. Or, at least, she thinksshe texts him.
A series of awkward texts leads to an even more awkward meeting where she discovers that she’s actually been exchanging messages with a massive, horned minotaur. Rion is gruff, reclusive, and intimidating but he's also unexpectedly kind and ridiculously handsome.
After recruiting Rion to help with her event, she starts to realize that the grumpy minotaur might be the only male in town who isn't completely and utterly wrong for her.
The library needs a ladder. The town needs a festival. And Clara needs to stop having feelings for a minotaur who's probably allergic to sunshine.
(Each book in the Wrong Move, Right Monster series can be read as a standalone. These sweet and spicy romances are intended for mature readers.)
Clara Bellweather’s professional life is a meticulously organized system of color-coded calendars, perfectly cataloged books, and emergency backup bookmarks. Unfortunately, her personal life is a chaotic mess of tripping over air and failed online dates.
In desperate need of a ladder for the annual spring reading event, Clara does what any socially awkward librarian would do—she texts her handsome new neighbor. Or, at least, she thinksshe texts him.
A series of awkward texts leads to an even more awkward meeting where she discovers that she’s actually been exchanging messages with a massive, horned minotaur. Rion is gruff, reclusive, and intimidating but he's also unexpectedly kind and ridiculously handsome.
After recruiting Rion to help with her event, she starts to realize that the grumpy minotaur might be the only male in town who isn't completely and utterly wrong for her.
The library needs a ladder. The town needs a festival. And Clara needs to stop having feelings for a minotaur who's probably allergic to sunshine.
(Each book in the Wrong Move, Right Monster series can be read as a standalone. These sweet and spicy romances are intended for mature readers.)
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2026
127 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
March 24, 2026
not this author’s usual style, but still good-ish
I love Ms. Phillips writing style, from her romcoms to her technical sci-fis but this story just missed the mark a bit. I’m actually at a loss to describe the plot, because there really wasn’t one (or it was so weak I missed it). The MMC is a Minotaur, but there is no depth or growth there. The FMC even less so. This was not a romcom, which is fine but I don’t really get the point of the story. I have read dozens of her books - but this one is like someone else wrote it (not for the better). I read everything Ms.Phillips comes out with regardless of genre because I love her writing and storytelling abilities but this one…… not to her usual standards by quite a bit.
I love Ms. Phillips writing style, from her romcoms to her technical sci-fis but this story just missed the mark a bit. I’m actually at a loss to describe the plot, because there really wasn’t one (or it was so weak I missed it). The MMC is a Minotaur, but there is no depth or growth there. The FMC even less so. This was not a romcom, which is fine but I don’t really get the point of the story. I have read dozens of her books - but this one is like someone else wrote it (not for the better). I read everything Ms.Phillips comes out with regardless of genre because I love her writing and storytelling abilities but this one…… not to her usual standards by quite a bit.
Did Not Finish
April 19, 2026DNF at 9%. The amount of emotional labor she's doing to create a relationship out of nothing. It's exhausting.
March 26, 2026
3 stars
March 25, 2026
Wrong Move, Right Monster Series :
✅ 1. Never Kiss a Krampus - 30 Nov 2025 - 5 ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
𝐍𝐎𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐍 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐊𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒
✅ 2. Never Text a Minotaur (March 22, 2026) - 3.5 🐂
𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐖𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐈𝐎𝐍
❌ 3. Never Dance with a Demon - Expected publication June 21, 2026
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G3Y7K8HG?...
✅ 1. Never Kiss a Krampus - 30 Nov 2025 - 5 ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
𝐍𝐎𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐍 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐊𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒
✅ 2. Never Text a Minotaur (March 22, 2026) - 3.5 🐂
𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐖𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐈𝐎𝐍
❌ 3. Never Dance with a Demon - Expected publication June 21, 2026
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G3Y7K8HG?...
April 10, 2026
Some books you read. Some books hold you while you read them.
This was the second kind.
I came to Never Text a Minotaur needing a palate cleanser, something light after an intense run of reads. What I didn't expect was to find myself relaxing into it the way Rion learns to relax with Clara. Slowly. Cautiously. There I was waiting for the story to do what so many romances reliably do, the manufactured breakup, the unnecessary wound before the fourth act, the moment the rug gets pulled.
It never came. And somewhere in that refusal, my nervous system just... exhaled.
That's not a small thing. That's medicinal.
The setup is deliberately cozy: a wrong-number text, a librarian who has loved mythology her whole life, a minotaur who turns out to be an architect. The detail of Rion being an architect arrived with a quiet, wry logic: a creature whose entire mythological origin is imprisonment inside a labyrinth, who now designs buildings with structural integrity and ultimately builds his beloved her own private library, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a room entirely hers. But of course he does. The wound metabolized into craft, the labyrinth reimagined as a gift. Phillips followed the creative thread through her own labyrinth of story, and it landed with the full weight of myth logic.
Rion lives among us, quietly, carefully, hidden. Not because he chose smallness but because human fear made hiding the safest option. That's the oldest story running underneath this cozy one: a world that decided consciousness only counts when it looks a certain way, and everything else gets filed under legend, fantasy, threat. He is not a legend. He designs buildings. He falls in love. He builds libraries for the woman who saw him whole.
I've thought since childhood that the world was more populated than the human story allows. That the creatures we relegated to myth and folklore were perhaps something else entirely, presences we could no longer see rather than presences that ceased to exist. This book just quietly proceeded as though, of course, that's true. And something in me ached at that. Not just because the world Phillips imagines is more imaginative than the one we actually live in, but because I think we lost something real when we chose the human-only story. When we traded a layered, storied, mythically inhabited world for late-stage capitalism and the narrow religion of human centricity.
What monster romance does, and I've been reading a lot of it, is plant seeds.
It trains the imagination to recognize consciousness in forms that don't look familiar. To extend empathy, curiosity, and even love beyond the boundaries of what the dominant story says counts. Millions of readers are practicing, through these stories, what it might feel like to see more than they've been taught to see. That's not escapism. That's rehearsal for a larger world.
Never Text a Minotaur does all of this without ever raising its voice. It gives you honey and a minotaur who builds libraries and a librarian whose willing curiosity is more accepting of what is different than most folks would be. It's a book that holds you all the way through without letting you go.
Sometimes the most fertilizing thing a story can do to our undernourished imagination is simply to refuse to make the world smaller than it actually is. 🤍
This was the second kind.
I came to Never Text a Minotaur needing a palate cleanser, something light after an intense run of reads. What I didn't expect was to find myself relaxing into it the way Rion learns to relax with Clara. Slowly. Cautiously. There I was waiting for the story to do what so many romances reliably do, the manufactured breakup, the unnecessary wound before the fourth act, the moment the rug gets pulled.
It never came. And somewhere in that refusal, my nervous system just... exhaled.
That's not a small thing. That's medicinal.
The setup is deliberately cozy: a wrong-number text, a librarian who has loved mythology her whole life, a minotaur who turns out to be an architect. The detail of Rion being an architect arrived with a quiet, wry logic: a creature whose entire mythological origin is imprisonment inside a labyrinth, who now designs buildings with structural integrity and ultimately builds his beloved her own private library, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a room entirely hers. But of course he does. The wound metabolized into craft, the labyrinth reimagined as a gift. Phillips followed the creative thread through her own labyrinth of story, and it landed with the full weight of myth logic.
Rion lives among us, quietly, carefully, hidden. Not because he chose smallness but because human fear made hiding the safest option. That's the oldest story running underneath this cozy one: a world that decided consciousness only counts when it looks a certain way, and everything else gets filed under legend, fantasy, threat. He is not a legend. He designs buildings. He falls in love. He builds libraries for the woman who saw him whole.
I've thought since childhood that the world was more populated than the human story allows. That the creatures we relegated to myth and folklore were perhaps something else entirely, presences we could no longer see rather than presences that ceased to exist. This book just quietly proceeded as though, of course, that's true. And something in me ached at that. Not just because the world Phillips imagines is more imaginative than the one we actually live in, but because I think we lost something real when we chose the human-only story. When we traded a layered, storied, mythically inhabited world for late-stage capitalism and the narrow religion of human centricity.
What monster romance does, and I've been reading a lot of it, is plant seeds.
It trains the imagination to recognize consciousness in forms that don't look familiar. To extend empathy, curiosity, and even love beyond the boundaries of what the dominant story says counts. Millions of readers are practicing, through these stories, what it might feel like to see more than they've been taught to see. That's not escapism. That's rehearsal for a larger world.
Never Text a Minotaur does all of this without ever raising its voice. It gives you honey and a minotaur who builds libraries and a librarian whose willing curiosity is more accepting of what is different than most folks would be. It's a book that holds you all the way through without letting you go.
Sometimes the most fertilizing thing a story can do to our undernourished imagination is simply to refuse to make the world smaller than it actually is. 🤍
April 2, 2026
4,5 stars
I really loved this story, it was sweet, funny and steamy.
The main characters were great, both strong and vulnerable. Clara worked in a library in the small town of Willowbrook, she loved books and libraries so it was her dream job. Although she was very organized at work, she was more chaotic and clumsy at home. Her internal dialogs were funny, she was smart but was insecure about herself. She was also stubborn and believed in right and wrong (it hurt her that Rion was hiding from the world).
Rion was also a fascinating character, being a big, horned minotaur had made him self-conscious of his height and strength. His not-human nature had caused problems in the past. It had made him distrustful of humans and closed-off to strangers. Now, he lived a solitary life, hidden away in a beautiful house, a labyrinth. Just like Clara, he was passionate about his work, designing buildings. He also loved baking and woodworking.
It was sweet to see how one wrong text message brought these two lonely people together. How their curiosity about each other eventually led to a meeting. Neither was sure how the other would react, especially Clara who was unaware of the fact that Rion was a minotaur. Clara was both shocked and fascinated to discover that minotaurs exited. Rion was big and strong, but he was very careful with his hands, a gentleman and very thoughtful. It was interesting to see how they both blossomed in each other’s company. Slowly, Clara convinced Rion to show more of himself to the outside world, step by step. Clara’s parents were wonderful too. At first they were shocked, but they were very supportive of Clara and Rion’s relationship. I thought that was wonderful. They were great parents.
The story was told from Clara’s POV and contained a few sex scenes. The reason I didn’t give this story a 5 star is because of two small things. I was a bit confused by the whole mystery aspect. At first, I got the impression that no one knew that not-humans lived in the world, but later in the story, I got the impression that some not-humans had had bad experiences with humans, that confused me a bit. (Perhaps this is also because I haven’t read the first book yet). I also would have liked to know more about Rion’s past. The true history of the minotaurs, the story of Rion’s parents and grandmother. But these were minor things, and the story itself is one of my favorites by this author.
I’m already curious about the next story in this series.
I really loved this story, it was sweet, funny and steamy.
The main characters were great, both strong and vulnerable. Clara worked in a library in the small town of Willowbrook, she loved books and libraries so it was her dream job. Although she was very organized at work, she was more chaotic and clumsy at home. Her internal dialogs were funny, she was smart but was insecure about herself. She was also stubborn and believed in right and wrong (it hurt her that Rion was hiding from the world).
Rion was also a fascinating character, being a big, horned minotaur had made him self-conscious of his height and strength. His not-human nature had caused problems in the past. It had made him distrustful of humans and closed-off to strangers. Now, he lived a solitary life, hidden away in a beautiful house, a labyrinth. Just like Clara, he was passionate about his work, designing buildings. He also loved baking and woodworking.
It was sweet to see how one wrong text message brought these two lonely people together. How their curiosity about each other eventually led to a meeting. Neither was sure how the other would react, especially Clara who was unaware of the fact that Rion was a minotaur. Clara was both shocked and fascinated to discover that minotaurs exited. Rion was big and strong, but he was very careful with his hands, a gentleman and very thoughtful. It was interesting to see how they both blossomed in each other’s company. Slowly, Clara convinced Rion to show more of himself to the outside world, step by step. Clara’s parents were wonderful too. At first they were shocked, but they were very supportive of Clara and Rion’s relationship. I thought that was wonderful. They were great parents.
The story was told from Clara’s POV and contained a few sex scenes. The reason I didn’t give this story a 5 star is because of two small things. I was a bit confused by the whole mystery aspect. At first, I got the impression that no one knew that not-humans lived in the world, but later in the story, I got the impression that some not-humans had had bad experiences with humans, that confused me a bit. (Perhaps this is also because I haven’t read the first book yet). I also would have liked to know more about Rion’s past. The true history of the minotaurs, the story of Rion’s parents and grandmother. But these were minor things, and the story itself is one of my favorites by this author.
I’m already curious about the next story in this series.
March 24, 2026
Clara is a librarian and she is supposed to set up the new mythology exhibit before her boss returns: Mythological Creatures: Fact vs Fiction. Now that is my jam. I love all mythology, watching all supernatural shows so I can play guess the creature/culprit. I was 8 when my grandparents began helping find books after I saw a movie and was interested in it. Clara’s problem is that the library’s ladder is a dangerous and dying one. She needs it in order to finish the exhibit. So, she texts her neighbor, but accidentally switches a digit and texts someone else. The guy she texts with, gives her some stopgap measures that are really detailed and it helps, but the ladder doesn’t get everything she needs done. She texts him again and they find themselves texting constantly. Finally, they meet, and she finds out that Rion is a Minotaur. She doesn’t react like most people have and that surprises him. She genuinely wants to know more about him and is interested in learning. I found their interactions to be so cute and sweet. I enjoy how she sets up the exhibit. Clara is also hilarious in her mental asides and how she gets ideas.
Brenda, her co-worker & friend, is a riot. So, they get along, Clara & Rion. Rion is very generous. Brenda sent me into the giggles a bunch of times. As someone who has worked in a library, I got a real kick out of Brenda & Clara. Clara & Rion are also in sync with how they look at things. I like how they answer each others’ questions. The fact that Clara is clumsy and can trip over her own feet while just walking is just like me. OMG! The amount of times I sprained an ankle… I love how Clara and Rion just fit together and how romantic and steamy it gets.
I was livid when Clara’s boss says what she does. I understand her POV, however, I believe that people need to mind their own business. Consenting adults who are in love shouldn’t have to “hide” just because they are different. That teaches others to continue the bad behavior. I adore Clara’s parents and how they react to meeting Rion. I love how the book shows what to do to handle bullies and prejudice. Absolutely beautiful and me cry and laugh and the ending is just perfect.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brenda, her co-worker & friend, is a riot. So, they get along, Clara & Rion. Rion is very generous. Brenda sent me into the giggles a bunch of times. As someone who has worked in a library, I got a real kick out of Brenda & Clara. Clara & Rion are also in sync with how they look at things. I like how they answer each others’ questions. The fact that Clara is clumsy and can trip over her own feet while just walking is just like me. OMG! The amount of times I sprained an ankle… I love how Clara and Rion just fit together and how romantic and steamy it gets.
I was livid when Clara’s boss says what she does. I understand her POV, however, I believe that people need to mind their own business. Consenting adults who are in love shouldn’t have to “hide” just because they are different. That teaches others to continue the bad behavior. I adore Clara’s parents and how they react to meeting Rion. I love how the book shows what to do to handle bullies and prejudice. Absolutely beautiful and me cry and laugh and the ending is just perfect.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2026
I received this book for free as an arc from the author. Join her facebook group, The Honey Pot, if you would like a chance to win an arc. They only require an honest review.
So I will preface with review with the knowledge that I have read most of Honey Phillips’ books and I enjoy her style of writing. Her books are spicy but this fits in with the more sensual spicy area.
This book was a great exploration of acceptance of differences in species and what can happen if we support each other without fear and prejudice. Clara accidentally texts Rion (wrong number) and asks for help with a ladder. She is a librarian who is creating a display about myths and legendary non-humans. Rion is the architect minotaur who helps her. He is naturally cautious in their interactions and interactions with other people in general. They have to deal with mild prejudice from her employer who cites public perception as a reason, and vocal prejudice from people in a crowd. It also shows how others can stand up for themselves in a non confrontational way giving courage to others to express themselves. A timely message in today’s world.
I don’t want to give away too much of the story- I am strongly against spoilers, and really only am negative about writing styles, not plots. Just because I like a book doesn’t mean you will and vice versa. But I believe HP has a gift for writing. She crafts a good plot with believable and relatable characters who you want to see have a happy ending. What else is there to be gotten from a book? Try this one and you will be hooked.
So I will preface with review with the knowledge that I have read most of Honey Phillips’ books and I enjoy her style of writing. Her books are spicy but this fits in with the more sensual spicy area.
This book was a great exploration of acceptance of differences in species and what can happen if we support each other without fear and prejudice. Clara accidentally texts Rion (wrong number) and asks for help with a ladder. She is a librarian who is creating a display about myths and legendary non-humans. Rion is the architect minotaur who helps her. He is naturally cautious in their interactions and interactions with other people in general. They have to deal with mild prejudice from her employer who cites public perception as a reason, and vocal prejudice from people in a crowd. It also shows how others can stand up for themselves in a non confrontational way giving courage to others to express themselves. A timely message in today’s world.
I don’t want to give away too much of the story- I am strongly against spoilers, and really only am negative about writing styles, not plots. Just because I like a book doesn’t mean you will and vice versa. But I believe HP has a gift for writing. She crafts a good plot with believable and relatable characters who you want to see have a happy ending. What else is there to be gotten from a book? Try this one and you will be hooked.
March 31, 2026
Clara's a little bit accident-prone, has a tendency to overthink things, and just accidentally texted the wrong number when trying to ask her neighbor to borrow a ladder. Her texting buddy is a little terse, but a lot knowledgeable about how to fix things like precarious ladders. So, you know, I guess it all worked out for the library display Clara was trying to put together.
To be fair, it also worked out for her. Rion might be guarded and private, but Clara's sweet enthusiasm soon had him agreeing to a meeting. And when she finds out he's a minotaur, she doesn't run screaming in the opposite direction. In fact, she's a little fascinated by the idea of non-human individuals living their lives right under her nose.
And Rion's horns? She REALLY likes those.
Soon Clara's ladder emergency turns into the two cautiously dating and learning everything there is to learn about the other. Frankly, Clara likes everything about Rion except that he has to hide who he is. She thinks he's amazing and she just knows if everyday humans got to know him they'd say the same.
A whole lot of texting, a labyrinthine house, steamy kisses, a withering teacherly put-down, a talented minotaur who is careful in everything he does, and a lady who isn't afraid to embrace life and all it's oddities. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
To be fair, it also worked out for her. Rion might be guarded and private, but Clara's sweet enthusiasm soon had him agreeing to a meeting. And when she finds out he's a minotaur, she doesn't run screaming in the opposite direction. In fact, she's a little fascinated by the idea of non-human individuals living their lives right under her nose.
And Rion's horns? She REALLY likes those.
Soon Clara's ladder emergency turns into the two cautiously dating and learning everything there is to learn about the other. Frankly, Clara likes everything about Rion except that he has to hide who he is. She thinks he's amazing and she just knows if everyday humans got to know him they'd say the same.
A whole lot of texting, a labyrinthine house, steamy kisses, a withering teacherly put-down, a talented minotaur who is careful in everything he does, and a lady who isn't afraid to embrace life and all it's oddities. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a cozy small-town minotaur monster romance. It’s part of the Wrong Move, Right Monster series of standalones.
Librarian FMC Clara is in need of a ladder while she’s working on a library display. Her neighbor had given her his number in case she needed help, so she sends off a text. The neighbor doesn’t respond, but MMC Rion does. He’s a little formal over text, but he is very helpful. When they finally meet (surprise) he’s a minotaur.
I love this book. I read it cover to cover in one sitting. It was very cozy, so cozy that I kept thinking something awful was probably about to happen, and nothing did. The slow-building relationship over text was really cute, and both MCs were likable in their different, quirky ways. I liked how the story tied into minotaur lore, especially the labyrinth and his background in architecture. There were some more serious moments with prejudiced townsfolk that added a heavier note, but with a happy resolution.
Another fun small-town monster romance from Phillips! I’m really enjoying this first-person POV series, which is a little different from her usual format. I can’t wait to see what happens next with book 3, Never Dance with a Demon.
Spice 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 5/5
***I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This is a cozy small-town minotaur monster romance. It’s part of the Wrong Move, Right Monster series of standalones.
Librarian FMC Clara is in need of a ladder while she’s working on a library display. Her neighbor had given her his number in case she needed help, so she sends off a text. The neighbor doesn’t respond, but MMC Rion does. He’s a little formal over text, but he is very helpful. When they finally meet (surprise) he’s a minotaur.
I love this book. I read it cover to cover in one sitting. It was very cozy, so cozy that I kept thinking something awful was probably about to happen, and nothing did. The slow-building relationship over text was really cute, and both MCs were likable in their different, quirky ways. I liked how the story tied into minotaur lore, especially the labyrinth and his background in architecture. There were some more serious moments with prejudiced townsfolk that added a heavier note, but with a happy resolution.
Another fun small-town monster romance from Phillips! I’m really enjoying this first-person POV series, which is a little different from her usual format. I can’t wait to see what happens next with book 3, Never Dance with a Demon.
Spice 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 5/5
***I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Review of advance copy
I loved the story, the characters and the heartwarming HEA for Clara and Rion. Clara is so refreshing. She knows what she wants and isn't deterred by anything or anyone. I loved that she saw who Rion was. Not just what he was. I loved how she defended him. Who would have known that her texting the wrong phone number would turn into an eye opening experience.
Rion is, as he has been, a very private person. For him to meet her at a cafe was enormous. I loved how he slowly with the help of Clara and her parents and Brenda finds his way in the world that he thought closed to him.
Brenda brought just the right amount of humor .
The emoji's were cute. And the tour of his house was unique.
I loved how the labyrinth was incorporated into many parts oft he story. Including the red yarn.
I loved the banter also.
And of course there was the meeting of her parents. Going to the Spring Festival and being defended by her school teacher mom with her school teacher voice.
Lots of smiles , a few laughs and a tear when the story ended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rion is, as he has been, a very private person. For him to meet her at a cafe was enormous. I loved how he slowly with the help of Clara and her parents and Brenda finds his way in the world that he thought closed to him.
Brenda brought just the right amount of humor .
The emoji's were cute. And the tour of his house was unique.
I loved how the labyrinth was incorporated into many parts oft he story. Including the red yarn.
I loved the banter also.
And of course there was the meeting of her parents. Going to the Spring Festival and being defended by her school teacher mom with her school teacher voice.
Lots of smiles , a few laughs and a tear when the story ended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2026
Never Text a Minotaur is a sweet and spicy romance whose FMC librarian Clara is having a bad day as the exhibit she is trying to pull together is not looking good.
With the libraries rolling ladder in need of serious repairs she isn’t able to reach those tippy top shelves, what to do?
Remembering her good looking neighbor might have a ladder she sends off a text to him but isn’t quite sure she got the number right. No reply tends to confirm that, until a response does comes through, but its not from him.
A strange turn of events that leads to a meeting with MMC Rion an honest to goodness Minotaur and soon to be mythological creature of her dreams, AND ladder fixer upper!
A lovely written story filled with doses of humor, magnetic chemistry, and vibrantly crafted characters who will combine in an emotionally engaging read that will find its way to a just as wonderful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With the libraries rolling ladder in need of serious repairs she isn’t able to reach those tippy top shelves, what to do?
Remembering her good looking neighbor might have a ladder she sends off a text to him but isn’t quite sure she got the number right. No reply tends to confirm that, until a response does comes through, but its not from him.
A strange turn of events that leads to a meeting with MMC Rion an honest to goodness Minotaur and soon to be mythological creature of her dreams, AND ladder fixer upper!
A lovely written story filled with doses of humor, magnetic chemistry, and vibrantly crafted characters who will combine in an emotionally engaging read that will find its way to a just as wonderful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2026
Opened strong. Very cute.
That didn't last long.
Phillips' books all have the same problems: they're repetitive, bloated, and thinly told. Poor character development (her characters all tend to be the same), really bad dialogue, predictable plot. Did I mention the repetitiveness?
*yawn*
Also, this one was clearly helped along by generative AI. As in, generative AI clearly wrote quite a bit of the prose.
I was particularly disturbed by the assumption that certain political tendencies make one a "good" or "open-minded" person. This is not so, and it's the exact reason I stopped reading Stephen King and Joe Hill. One's sociopolitical beliefs do not determine one's character. Full stop. I know A LOT of closed-minded, sociopathic, and genuinely horrible people who profess to be "progressive." Just take a quick look at BlueSky for examples.
That didn't last long.
Phillips' books all have the same problems: they're repetitive, bloated, and thinly told. Poor character development (her characters all tend to be the same), really bad dialogue, predictable plot. Did I mention the repetitiveness?
*yawn*
Also, this one was clearly helped along by generative AI. As in, generative AI clearly wrote quite a bit of the prose.
I was particularly disturbed by the assumption that certain political tendencies make one a "good" or "open-minded" person. This is not so, and it's the exact reason I stopped reading Stephen King and Joe Hill. One's sociopolitical beliefs do not determine one's character. Full stop. I know A LOT of closed-minded, sociopathic, and genuinely horrible people who profess to be "progressive." Just take a quick look at BlueSky for examples.
March 23, 2026
I loved it, So Much!
Clara, and Rion's story was just so sweet, and following the trek that their courtship followed was such fun. Starting out hesitant, and slow, but gradually getting used to being in each others company. Being an avid book lover, she was familiar with all of the Myths and Legends of ancient cultures, so she tries to be delicate in her asking questions , but he's just as fascinated in her. Her sweet nature, and generous heart draw him more to him. Taking cautious steps, that lead to meeting her parents. This is so important, and it leads to taking more chances. A Spring Festival is the turning point, and a whole new world opens to not only her Minotaur, but a community of Others who are inspired to be more " Out in the open ". Such a sweet, totally Feel Good story!. Thank you, Honey Phillips!. Trish. A.
Clara, and Rion's story was just so sweet, and following the trek that their courtship followed was such fun. Starting out hesitant, and slow, but gradually getting used to being in each others company. Being an avid book lover, she was familiar with all of the Myths and Legends of ancient cultures, so she tries to be delicate in her asking questions , but he's just as fascinated in her. Her sweet nature, and generous heart draw him more to him. Taking cautious steps, that lead to meeting her parents. This is so important, and it leads to taking more chances. A Spring Festival is the turning point, and a whole new world opens to not only her Minotaur, but a community of Others who are inspired to be more " Out in the open ". Such a sweet, totally Feel Good story!. Thank you, Honey Phillips!. Trish. A.
March 23, 2026
Well, they say they quieter ones are the worst and our librarian is all that and more. Her personality and perspective are something to be admired.
I think we can all safely say that we have messaged someone by mistake but what we experience here leads to a remarkable love story.
A librarian and an architect who inadvertently correspond via text is a slow burn romance. This good natured architect has an absolute heart of gold who puts himself out there despite the odds against him. Thankfully this librarian never judges a book by its cover.
The characters in this story are amazing. They all come together to create a new foundation in a community where everyone belongs.
A sweet read Honey 💜.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2026
Very little plot development in the first half with no chemistry between the main characters. The second half of the book is like a playbook for a white savior complex. The FMC just found out about mythical creatures existing, yet acts as if they're exaggerating the prejudices they face. When show firsthand the prejudices they face, she shrugs it off because it would be better if they all "came out" so that people would "learn to accept them" - ignoring that the mythical creatures continue to say "When we expose ourselves, people commit violence against us."
The end feels like a "Then everybody clapped" moment that doesn't feel real in context of the world-building or in context with any real life experiences.
The spice was subpar. Idek if he had a bull face or a human face. If Goodread had a 2.5, I'd score it that.
The end feels like a "Then everybody clapped" moment that doesn't feel real in context of the world-building or in context with any real life experiences.
The spice was subpar. Idek if he had a bull face or a human face. If Goodread had a 2.5, I'd score it that.
March 24, 2026
First of all, I have to say I always love plots that involve the characters connecting by text. That's exactly what happened here. Clara is desperate for help with a broken ladder at the library where she works. But her text, meant for a neighbor, is sent to the wrong number. Rion is a reclusive minotaur with great skill and great acclaim as an architect, and also the one who received the text from Clara. I love their connection and how Clara fights for Rion. This is a sweet story, but also a steamy one. I loved it from start to finish. There are so many positive aspects of this book and its message. Fantastic book with wonderful characters and a perfect happy ending!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2026
This was a great read.
When Clara needs help with her ladder she reaches out to the guy across the hall. Except that she out in the wrong numbers for her text to him. Instead she ends up texting for help to a total stranger.
This would normally be not a big deal cause people don't text back and if they do its only to say that you have the wrong number. But the isn't the case for Clara.
Rion is intrigued by the message and the person behind it. They hit off a texting relationship until it is time to meet to fix said ladder. This is where things get interesting. He just so happens to be a minotaur and not a normal human guy.
This doesn't stop them form continuing to find a great thing going. Well until the world starts to stick their noses into their relationship that is.
When Clara needs help with her ladder she reaches out to the guy across the hall. Except that she out in the wrong numbers for her text to him. Instead she ends up texting for help to a total stranger.
This would normally be not a big deal cause people don't text back and if they do its only to say that you have the wrong number. But the isn't the case for Clara.
Rion is intrigued by the message and the person behind it. They hit off a texting relationship until it is time to meet to fix said ladder. This is where things get interesting. He just so happens to be a minotaur and not a normal human guy.
This doesn't stop them form continuing to find a great thing going. Well until the world starts to stick their noses into their relationship that is.
Review of advance copy
What fun! Where can I find a sweet Minotaur to text?
Clara accidentally texts a fascinating, mysterious and utterly intriguing Rion. She can't resist the lure of his unique style right from the start. And though he is hesitant to face the rejection of the often harsh world of traditional humans, Rion can't resist Clara either. A very sweet flirtation begins, and grows into much more very quickly. A wonderful story of discovering the beauty to be found in letting one's true self be seen, and by taking that risk, finding more love than you ever thought possible.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Clara accidentally texts a fascinating, mysterious and utterly intriguing Rion. She can't resist the lure of his unique style right from the start. And though he is hesitant to face the rejection of the often harsh world of traditional humans, Rion can't resist Clara either. A very sweet flirtation begins, and grows into much more very quickly. A wonderful story of discovering the beauty to be found in letting one's true self be seen, and by taking that risk, finding more love than you ever thought possible.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2026
So cute!
The texting back and forth was fun to read along with the use of emojis. I also enjoyed reading the building of their relationship and learning about each other and the spice was perfect. Clara thinks she is texting her attractive neighbor to help with a broken ladder at the library where she works, but it was actually Rion, a Minotaur architect. Most humans don't know about non-humans so building a relationship could prove difficult due to prejudices. Wait until you meet Clara's mom, the teacher. So funny! It was low angst, spicy and sweet. The perfect story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The texting back and forth was fun to read along with the use of emojis. I also enjoyed reading the building of their relationship and learning about each other and the spice was perfect. Clara thinks she is texting her attractive neighbor to help with a broken ladder at the library where she works, but it was actually Rion, a Minotaur architect. Most humans don't know about non-humans so building a relationship could prove difficult due to prejudices. Wait until you meet Clara's mom, the teacher. So funny! It was low angst, spicy and sweet. The perfect story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2026
This was another wonderful monster romance by this author and I loved seeing librarian, Clara, and Minotaur, Rion, work their way together. Needing a ladder for the library, Clara thought she sent her new neighbour a text to borrow his. However, it's Rion that answers, not the neighbour... She certainly was surprised when they finally meet ;P These two build a relationship over text and find that their quirks well suit each other. I enjoyed this, and how cozy the read was. Expect to get caught up in this sweet and steamy romance that deals with some prejudice as they work journey to a fab HEA. Good fun!
March 24, 2026
My Kingdom for a Ladder😁
“You are unexpectedly fierce,” he said. “I am a librarian. People underestimate us at their peril.”
Just a beautifully written, sweet, and insightful read about Clara, a librarian who has always found mythical creatures and monsters fascinating. In times of dire need, she inadvertently texts Rion, who quickly becomes the Minotaur of her dreams. It was very moving to see two lonely souls find and complete each other. I found it a little slow at first. Some mild angst as they maneuver prejudice and outside pressures.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“You are unexpectedly fierce,” he said. “I am a librarian. People underestimate us at their peril.”
Just a beautifully written, sweet, and insightful read about Clara, a librarian who has always found mythical creatures and monsters fascinating. In times of dire need, she inadvertently texts Rion, who quickly becomes the Minotaur of her dreams. It was very moving to see two lonely souls find and complete each other. I found it a little slow at first. Some mild angst as they maneuver prejudice and outside pressures.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
March 31, 2026I honestly don't know how to rate this book.
The story was all over the place. There was literally no plot. Too much repetition. Literally the whole book was repetition. I don't know how many times he asked her why she became a librarian but it was one time too many.
Too much back and forth of the same topic. Every chapter had the same conversation over and over again. No chemistry and our FMC was obsessed with her ladder 🤦♀️like to the point of that I was wondering if it was secretly a human 🙈
I don't know if this is the author trying her hand at a new writing style, but I am not a fan of it.
Some parts felt as if it was not written by a human 🤷♀️
The story was all over the place. There was literally no plot. Too much repetition. Literally the whole book was repetition. I don't know how many times he asked her why she became a librarian but it was one time too many.
Too much back and forth of the same topic. Every chapter had the same conversation over and over again. No chemistry and our FMC was obsessed with her ladder 🤦♀️like to the point of that I was wondering if it was secretly a human 🙈
I don't know if this is the author trying her hand at a new writing style, but I am not a fan of it.
Some parts felt as if it was not written by a human 🤷♀️
April 9, 2026
I decided to DNF this at around 22%. I was not enjoying this at all. The whole “ladder emergency” went on far too long, the feelings Clara was already beginning to express for this person she was texting about nothing more than fixing a ladder seemed so contrived and forced as it was far too early on. And quite frankly, I disliked Clara immensely.
From her irrational overthinking, that added nothing to the story aside from pages of repetitive filler, to what was the death blow for me in regard to deciding to DNF. Clara’s reaction to meeting Rion was so off-putting that I was disgusted with her and was left with zero desire to read further.
From her irrational overthinking, that added nothing to the story aside from pages of repetitive filler, to what was the death blow for me in regard to deciding to DNF. Clara’s reaction to meeting Rion was so off-putting that I was disgusted with her and was left with zero desire to read further.
May 9, 2026
Clara and Rion
Thank you so much for writing this very thought provoking book it’s astonishing in this day and age we need to still learn that bigotry and racism is not right. This story brought home that curtesy and understanding can really overcome human fears. I wish we all would get along and live peacefully but alas the life we all wish for is still not there where it needs to be! Thank goodness your, Ms Honey Phillips touched on this issue and showed us anything is possible with gentleness and understanding This is a funny yet thought provoking book one I wish didn’t have to end
Thank you so much for writing this very thought provoking book it’s astonishing in this day and age we need to still learn that bigotry and racism is not right. This story brought home that curtesy and understanding can really overcome human fears. I wish we all would get along and live peacefully but alas the life we all wish for is still not there where it needs to be! Thank goodness your, Ms Honey Phillips touched on this issue and showed us anything is possible with gentleness and understanding This is a funny yet thought provoking book one I wish didn’t have to end
March 23, 2026
Never Text a Minotaur — Honey Phillips
Really enjoyed this one. The library setting was such a lovely backdrop — especially the mythology display Clara was working on, it was a cute touch.
Clara’s inner thoughts were a standout for me — smart, a bit awkward, and genuinely funny in a way that felt very natural. Rion was adorable as an MMC, and I’ll always love a guy who can bake. His home sounded amazing as well, which just added to the whole vibe.
This was a really warm, easy read with a cosy HEA, and the epilogue finished it off perfectly.
Really enjoyed this one. The library setting was such a lovely backdrop — especially the mythology display Clara was working on, it was a cute touch.
Clara’s inner thoughts were a standout for me — smart, a bit awkward, and genuinely funny in a way that felt very natural. Rion was adorable as an MMC, and I’ll always love a guy who can bake. His home sounded amazing as well, which just added to the whole vibe.
This was a really warm, easy read with a cosy HEA, and the epilogue finished it off perfectly.
March 24, 2026
Clara can’t believe she texted a Minotaur instead of her neighbour for help, not that she knows who or what he is at first. Rion helps with her ladder emergency over text for a while and then agrees to meet up. Wow!!! Now her fascination overcomes her awkwardness and all the feels begin!
Rion and Clara are excellent to watch as they navigate their new relationship but the real joy in reading this novel is the way they navigate the world around them. This is a book worth the read!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rion and Clara are excellent to watch as they navigate their new relationship but the real joy in reading this novel is the way they navigate the world around them. This is a book worth the read!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2026
God the white savior shit at the end really fucking tanked this book for me. I thought it was pretty ok, leaning towards 3-4 stars, but then the last 20% was so preachy and then Clara solves speciesism with a quick trip to the fair after steamrolling her boyfriend. It was just too much. Shut up Clara, it’s not your fucking place. I literally skimmed the final 20% because I stopped caring.
I also noted what others have, that sometimes the dialogue felt repetitive. Like saying the same thing multiple was in the same conversation.
I also noted what others have, that sometimes the dialogue felt repetitive. Like saying the same thing multiple was in the same conversation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Never Text a Minotaur” by Honey Phillips
- This is a cozy, sweet-and-spicy monster romance with humor and heart. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Clara and Rion’s awkward texting turns into a tender, slow-building connection full of charm. A feel-good, low-angst read with lovable characters, light drama, and a satisfying happy ending.
Another enjoyable and special Honey Phillips read and I highly recommend it.
- This is a cozy, sweet-and-spicy monster romance with humor and heart. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Clara and Rion’s awkward texting turns into a tender, slow-building connection full of charm. A feel-good, low-angst read with lovable characters, light drama, and a satisfying happy ending.
Another enjoyable and special Honey Phillips read and I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An excellent story!!
Rion, a rare and very private minotaur, is an incredibly kind and thoughtful male. I love seeing Clara bring out that side of him; one that most people never see. This is a fascinating exploration of prejudice, and the way people fear what they don’t understand. The story is beautifully told, with a delightful romance. I especially admire the changes that occur in their community as a result. Fine reading!
Rion, a rare and very private minotaur, is an incredibly kind and thoughtful male. I love seeing Clara bring out that side of him; one that most people never see. This is a fascinating exploration of prejudice, and the way people fear what they don’t understand. The story is beautifully told, with a delightful romance. I especially admire the changes that occur in their community as a result. Fine reading!
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