BookCon Carry-On

by Monty Amor

She came for a weekend escape… but destiny came harder.

Victoria Lopez is freshly divorced, newly forty-five, and determined to reclaim her joy on a weekend girl’s trip to a romance book conference. But when her rechargeable self-care device stages a full-scale riot in the TSA line, she’s forced to toss it in the trash… along with her hopes for a no-strings-attached, between-the-sheets revival.

Fine. Whatever. She’s got a BookCon, her two best friends, and a weekend far away from her ex-husband’s engagement party. That should be enough… right?

But then a mysterious figurine at a vendor booth calls her name—literally. According to the shop owner, these enchanted effigies choose their person. Victoria laughs it off… until she brings the warrior-shaped statue back to her hotel room and discovers “choosing” might have involved a lot more than fate.

Because this figurine doesn’t stay a figurine.

Suddenly Victoria is face-to-abs with a devoted, dangerously gorgeous Mexica warrior determined to serve her every desire and remind her exactly who she powerful, wanted, and worthy of pleasure without apology.

What started as a girls’ trip becomes a wild, magical awakening—one that might just put her heart back together in ways she never expected.

82 pages, Paperback

Expected publication February 10, 2026

Reviews

[jenny reads a lot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, can someone please make book-con carryon happen for real? I’d like a travel sized warrior whose sole purpose is reminding me how powerful I am by giving me endless orgasms.

This is exactly what it claims to be. Short. Spicy. A little silly.

But it also packs a bit of an emotional punch. We all deserve to feel powerful and a worthy of love, affection, and orgasms, but sometimes we need a little reminder.

A love letter to all things books & bookish friends.

The only negative I’ll note is that the prose was a bit repetitive in places, including the spice.

4.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |

Thank you to the publisher for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.

[Chelsea | Mrs Viking Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Listen. I came for a fun, slightly unhinged spicy novella and Carry On absolutely understood the assignment, mostly.

First of all: divorced, forty-five, BookCon weekend, feral best friends? Immediate yes. Victoria is living the fantasy of every romance-reader-with-back-pain-and-boundaries, and I loved that for her. The TSA incident alone told me exactly what kind of ride this was going to be. Tragic. Hilarious. Relatable. RIP to a fallen rechargeable soldier 🫡

Now let’s talk sentient spice. This is not my first encounter with magically animated thirst objects, so I went in seasoned and spiritually prepared. Was this the most mind-blowing version of the trope? No. Was it fun, ridiculous, and occasionally very hot? Absolutely. Not the best, not the worst - solid middle-of-the-road “I enjoyed myself and do not regret this” energy.

The real standout for me was the friend group. Bookish, weird, supportive women who met online and brought their chaos IRL? That hit home. Deeply. Bookstagram girlies, we see each other. That sense of chosen family and hype-woman energy gave the story heart beyond the spice.

Also, the quote: “I deserved to feel sexy. I deserved to take up space.” Yeah. That one stayed with me. Because YES. Full-body yes. The older I get, the more I believe desire isn’t something to outgrow - it’s something to finally own without apology!

Overall a quick, spicy little read that doesn’t reinvent the wheel but definitely gives it a fun, enchanted spin. Perfect for when you want empowerment, escapism, and just a dash of “what did I just read?” energy. Would recommend for a cozy weekend mood read with snacks and zero shame!

[January · Rating 5 out of 5]

BookCon Carry-On by Monty Amor (Feb. 2026) [Reading in Jan.]
74-page Kindle Ebook story pages 10-69

Genre: Novella, Erotica, Fantasy

Rating as a movie: XX for Explicit Sexual Content

Featuring: Content Warning - Explicit Sexual Content, Roseville, California; Atlanta, Georgia; Divorcée, Boy Mom, Weekend Trip, Books About Books, Book Dragons, Bookstagrammers, Latino MC, Friendships, Quinquagenarian, Text Graphics, Review Advertisement

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🧳🛫🫔

My thoughts: I read the genre and was still greatly surprised. This story starts with a bang (not that kind) it is hilarious from the start, so much so that the spice was just a bonus. My only complaint is that it ended too soon. Her friends and the event sounded like a good time and we didn't finish the weekend. Maybe there are more coming. I wouldn't be mad at a series. Thank you to NetGalley and Tides Collide Publishing for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

Recommend to others: Yes! This is a quick story but it's a 10. Just in time for Valentine’s Day.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

This was short, quirky, cute, and spicy novella about a woman post divorce finding her spark!

There were a few phrases or word choices in here that made my eye twitch and my brain short circuit (the use of the word "meaty" was one 🤢). Surprisingly, this short book did have some emotional depth to it- more than i was expecting.
Go into this looking for a fun, quick read with a book that doesnt ask too many questions or take itself too seriously.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review

[Nicole McCombs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This was a cute novella that went from embarrassing at the airport to very interesting in the bedroom. I think the airport scene was so hilarious, I had to stop reading because I was laughing so hard my boyfriend was concerned and I had to explain to him what was so funny.

I loved the female empowerment message throughout the book. I can understand being so wrapped up in a relationship that you forget that you are your own person and you deserve to be yourself unconditionally.

3 🌶️

[Athena · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off thank you NetGalley and Tides Collide Publishing for the ARC. Here is my honest review.

This book…
Definitely something you can read in one sitting quickly. Or however long you want to read this. lol
Definitely 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️? Is a guesstimate.
Definitely written by a book girlie for other book girlies.

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed! So fun and had me laughing ~

I just love a sentient object romance.

Also a sentient object romance taking place at a bookcon? (something I will be attending for the first time in July???) Amazing. Best possible setting. Got me hyped for my con even tho I won't be finding any sexy statues to keep me company.

Story started fast with hijinx.....involving highways, sex toys, and TSA.

Despite the short length, there was definitely depth to this story. Our FMC felt like a real person who gave and lost so much of herself in an unhealthy marriage, and now post divorce is finally taking time for herself (bookcon with friends 🎉🎉🎉) to rediscover herself and her confidence. Her relationship with her sons was adorable.

Characters? ✅️
Humor? ✅️
Sexy warrior effigy? ✅️

This story though short was full of humor and spice! Thoroughly recommend if you enjoy a good sentient object romance with some depth 🫶

[Faithe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bookcon Carry-on by Monty Amor is a fun spicy novella perfect for all those spicy romance readers.

Victoria Lopez is freshly divorced, 45 and determined to reclaim herself on a girl's weekend to a book conference. What ensues on that magical weekend is surprisingly fun, spicy and hilarious.

I loved how perfectly Monty captured the feel of a bookcon from a excited readers point of view. Monty took a weird concept and made it perfectly spicy and believable within the context of the story. The only issue I had with the story is that it wasn't longer! I wanted to know if her friends got to see the book boyfriend magic as well!

I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and Tides Collide Publishing, in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

This book comes to stores near you Feb 10 2026

#BookConCarryOn #NetGalley

[Tashie_LeeReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of Book Con Carry On in exchange for an honest review.

I honestly did not expect this book to go in the direction that it did but omg, it was absolutely amazing!
I don’t want to spoil anything because I truly think this is one of those stories that’s better when you go in blind. Trust me on this one 😄

This novella had me giggling and smiling the entire way through. It was so much fun and I couldn't put it down.

I had a great time with this and will definitely be picking up more from this author in the future. If you’re in the mood for something fun that’ll put a smile on your face, I highly recommend this for sure!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Tides Collide publishing for my ARC in exchange for an honest review
Everyone knows I’m a Whöre for sentiment object romances. I love that it makes me laugh but I also love it when it has great writing and emotion.
BookCon Carry on has both of those things! Monty Amors writing flows very nicely and you can feel the emotion from chapter one with how Victoria feels towards her ex and where she is at in her life as a single mother.
So yes while you are Laughing your butt off you can appreciate Monty’s writing.
✨ this book is hott and I just wished it was a tad bit longer! Didn’t want it to end !

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

Creative and cute with some painfully cringey moments, this little novella is quite charming. While this was not my typical read, I enjoyed it. I can tell the author put a lot of heart in this, and I really appreciated all of the character building, despite so few pages. I felt myself rooting for Victoria, and was happy she got what was coming (in)to her 🤭.

Big thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Liz | lizzuplans · Rating 2 out of 5]

Should have known the sex toy joke on the first page was a bad sign.

The humour was not for me, I did not vibe with the forty-something divorcée mother who feels guilty about finally doing something for herself, and sentient object romance was not on my bingo card for 2026.

A positive was that this was a very short read.
And the cover is lovely!

I received an ARC of this book (thanks!) and these are my own opinions.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, spicy, and silly but I was pleasantly surprised to find some emotional depth to the story. There are some empowering moments for women and I loved the quote "I deserved to feel sexy. I deserved to take up space.” The spice was as unhinged as I hoped it would be. This will be a super fun read for anyone bookish.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy!

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so much fun, and the airport scene had me laughing out loud! I sympathized with Victoria's situation and loved how her intimate encounters with the Mexica warrior helped her regain her confidence and recognize her self worth. I also loved Victoria's friends and how they support her. This novella was a good blend of humor, explicit scenes, and emotional movements. I really enjoyed this quick, spicy read.

[Debbie Delano · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully spicy short read that I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to read! how wild would your life be if a figurine could come to life and fulfill your every steamy desire?!

[Hannah Chaussee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was honestly hilarious, especially at the beginning. But the rest of the book was very odd, and the writing was clunky in my opinion. I want a longer book based on the airport scene.

[Tori Hays · Rating 3 out of 5]

Netgalley review.
thanks for letting me receive this ARC.
i liked the book references. this was a spicy novella book.

[Keisha Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

So FUNNY!!!!!! I love these short sentient object romance books that make me laugh!!! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

Enjoy the ride ladies ;)

[Mercedes Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an arc of this spicy novella & it was such a fun and quick read! It has all the bookish vibes with the fmc being a book girly who goes to a book convention. Honestly I love me a good spicy novella, so if that’s what you’re looking for this book is for you!

[nia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

When I started this book I was sceptical, it felt like the fmc went on about her ex husband and life before being divorced too much for a book this short - but once this is done and dusted we get into the real meat (pun intended) of the novella.

The only slight issue I have with this book is from personal preference of not liking modern references when I'm reading - like the wannabe influencer going live on tiktok to record the airport scene. I get why its included as a plot point but for me the modern reference does stop the plot from being fully immerseable.

BUT the plot as a whole? Chef kiss, I have no idea where the effigy idea came from but I love it - such a unique idea that we haven't seen before - hallellujiah for an author being creative and original! And I want my own little effigy too!!! I'd never considered it as an idea before this book but damn it's a crazy cool idea. I love it!

This was middle of the road spice / smut - very reptitive in descriptions at times but fits well with the rest of the book and isn't bad! Just not outstanding either - but I'm sure this is the sort of thing that could be improved with fine tooth beta readers.

What I really love is the focus on female friendships where there is no yucking of yums but rather encouragement. I have friends like this and we need more of these in the world! They're awesome - I hope they found their own effigies!

There is emotional depth in this book but the constant circling back to divorce got to me a bit, it felt very repetitive and like we needed reasons for this full transformation of character - her transforming is perfect as is! No justification needed! The female friends championing her is reason enough!

A good quick read, but prose is questionable and if like me you struggle with modern references, try and ignore the going live reference.

[leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Monty Amor, Tides Collide Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review! 💝

This book immediately hooked me from the start. Opening at an airport and diving straight into an awkward, hilarious TSA situation made it memorable right away. I ended up finishing the entire book in one sitting because I was genuinely engaged and curious about where the story would go next.

As a book lover, this story felt like such a dream. Attending book conventions, meeting authors, and bonding with fellow readers is something I personally find exciting, and this book really captured that joy. It made me smile, feel giddy, and honestly wish the story continued beyond the convention, I wanted to know what life looked like afterward for Victoria and Ollin.

One of my favorite parts of the book was Victoria’s growth. Watching her gain confidence in herself, her body, and her life was incredibly satisfying. I appreciated how she came to recognize her own worth and identify red flags in her past relationship. That realization felt empowering and well-earned.

On the flip side, Alanzo was deeply frustrating to read about. His treatment of Victoria was unacceptable, and I appreciated that the book didn’t excuse his behavior or romanticize it in any way.

Ollin, meanwhile, was an interesting character, though I’ll admit I had a hard time fully visualizing him. His description didn’t quite settle in my mind, but that didn’t take away from his role in the story or his dynamic with Victoria.

Lastly, I really loved the friendships in this book. Yazmin and Katie stood out as genuinely supportive friends who showed up when it mattered most, offering comfort, loyalty, and care. Their presence added warmth and balance to the story.

Overall, BookCon Carry-On was a fun, heartfelt, and engaging read, especially for anyone who loves books, conventions, and stories about rediscovering yourself.

[Monica Beard · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who loves attending book conventions (although I often have my husband and young son in tow so that they can have their own adventures), I really appreciated how spot on the setting is: have to bring your book cart and navigate through the congested aisles, the change to awkwardly explain to an author why you loved their books so much, and the cheerful atmosphere of being with a bunch of people who love the same books that you do. It's a wonderful experience, and one that Amor captures well.

I also appreciated that Amor was thoughtful in making her main character a harried mother of three teenaged boys. Our protagonist Victoria is clearly a mom who has put so much of herself into her kids, and feels guilty taking any time and money for herself to enjoy her time away with her sweet and supportive friends. I loved the scene where Victoria can't resist her guilt and calls to check in on her sons. Her boys, of course, are having a great time eating nachos at 9 in the morning with their grandmother - a reminder that a break is normal and healthy for kids as well!

I know I would have enjoyed the full novel of this one (Victoria introducing her ancient warrior to nachos would have been a treat), but the book has a lovely message of deciding you deserve pampering, love and all the spice. This is for anyone who loves book conventions or who would love to go for one. Thanks to Tides Collide Publishing for the early copy and I hope attendees at Romantasy Book Con will check this out.

[Davina · Rating 4 out of 5]

BookCon Carry-On is a spicy, fun novella about Victoria Lopez, a newly divorced woman in her mid-forties who heads to a romance book conference with her best friends for a weekend getaway. What starts with airport chaos and a reclaimed sense of self quickly turns magical when a mysterious warrior figurine chooses her and literally comes to life, reminding her of her power, desire, and worth in incredibly unexpected ways.

This was an unexpected but delightful read, especially for me. From the very beginning, the humor had me laughing, and the quick pace made it a fun break from heavier books. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its charm—it’s short, spicy, and intentionally entertaining. I think it’s a great introduction into more adult romance for anyone curious about “spicier” reads without a huge commitment.

Beyond the heat, the theme of loving yourself and reclaiming confidence was genuinely enjoyable. Watching Victoria rediscover her sense of joy, self-worth, and desire while surrounded by supportive friends gave the story a surprisingly uplifting vibe amidst all the chaos.

If you’re in the mood for a fast, funny, and empowering short read, BookCon Carry-On is absolutely entertaining and a lovely reminder that pleasure and self-acceptance matter at every age.

[Eloïse van Deutekom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to be honest and tell you that I've never read an object romance. So when I had the opportunity to ARC-read this book, I took it with both hands! I do not regret it at all.

Victoria is a 45 year old woman, who is planning to go to a bookconvention with her friends. She divorced her ex-husband 3 years ago, because he never treated her like she was good enough. Which led to another problem: he never actually satisfyed her in the bedroom.

When she arrives at the airport, after her son dropped her off, the awkward problems begin. While they were on their way, her bag filled with books and sextoys exploded. What happens at the airport isn't much better either, but that is for you to find out! I can't spoil everything of course.

The moment they arrive at the bookconvention she feels so much better than she has in a long time. Then suddenly she hears someone call her name. She can't figure out who's voice it is, until she realizes it's a magical warrior figurine that is talking to her. She has to lick it, to make it come alive.

She now has a strong warrior named Ollin, who does anything for her and calls her his queen.

My favorite quote:
'I was stripping away every lie Alanzo made me believe about myself. I deserved to feel sexy. I deserved to take up space.'

My rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️

[Rae Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victoria Lopez is on the sexual struggle bus. Newly divorced, closer to fifty than fourty, and without any sort of sexual satisfaction minus the toys she keeps in her beside drawer, she feels like she's dangerously close to slipping into a rut. When a girls trip to a smutty book lovers convention starts off with a TSA TikTok sensation, thanks to one of those battery-powered boyfriends, she's pretty sure that she is done without any sort of capital D.

But then a chance encounter at a convention booth puts Victoria face to face with a small figurine...one that is literally whispering her name. The choice to accept the figure and take it back to her room opens a whole new world for Victoria-one wearing only a loincloth with the magical soul of a sexually free warrior locked inside, just waiting for her.

//

This is a fantastic twist on the inanimate-object-comes-to-life smut trope we've been seeing lately, and this might be my favorite one so far. This is such a CLEVER idea, and it works so well with the setting. I think all of us have at least one or two book boyfriends we'd love to conjure up for a no strings roll in the hay, and this is such a fun take on that concept.

I wanted a fun filthy little deliight, and this absolutely delivered. This is Monty Armor's debut, and this better not be the last because man oh man, this was so fun and I absolutely want more.

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Tides Collide, and Monty Armo for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. "BookCon Carry-On" releases on 02/10/2026

[Jennifer Elkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

BookCon Carry-On by Monty Amor is a deliciously quick read—one of those novellas that feels like a true treat to devour in a single sitting. It beautifully celebrates a recent divorcee’s rediscovery of her sensuality, personal power, and self-worth, all while keeping the tone light, funny, and irresistibly engaging.

One of the standout elements for me was the portrayal of female friendship. The bond between the women felt authentic and heartfelt, full of genuine love, support, and mutual honoring. Their connection added depth and warmth to the story and made the journey even more satisfying.

The intimate moments were hot—yet tastefully written—and added just the right amount of spice without overpowering the story. They might even inspire any reader to wander a BookCon in search of her own “warrior” book boyfriend. Ollin, the warrior effigy, was especially compelling in the way he honored the MFC's femininity and beauty while empowering her to take charge of her own desires and choices.

Overall, BookCon Carry-On is a fun, fast-paced page-turner that celebrates a woman’s sensuality, strength, and self-discovery. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an uplifting, sexy read that leaves you smiling and feeling empowered.

[Chloe Coffield · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review
Spoiler Alert 🚨

From the start, this novella had me cracking up! Our FMC, Victoria, made me laugh when I was only a couple pages in. I mean… the airport scene!!! I almost doubled over in laughter (as well as second hand embarrassment lol).

As a divorcee, Victoria feels like she isn’t enough. Through a magical trip to a Book convention, she finds out exactly what she needs. And that just so happens to be Ollin, a figurine of a warrior that comes to life just to please Victoria in every way she needs 😉

Now, I have to mention Victorias two best friends, Katie and Yazmine. These two women empower Victoria to go out and try to be her best feeling self! When I tell you that the friendship between these women is so pure! Having friends that have your back is such a powerful and, dare I say, essential way is such a privilege to have!

Ollin. Okay, I have to say, I did feel a little weird about him at first. I mean, he is literally made of clay? But, as the story went on, I found myself liking him more and more. Not only did he help Victoria become the queen she always knew she was, but he was hot AF!

All in all, if you’re looking for a sizzling novella, Bookcon Carry-On is for you!!

[Britney Ireland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short novella and a genre I've never read before, so I will give my first impression and honest review.

Though to me I found this book different from what I am used to reading I did very much enjoy it and its storyline.

A group of women found each other online during the pandemic and bonded over their love of books. One being recently divorced they all decide to meet up at Bookcon in Vegas

The recently divorced woman has a crazy mishap at the airport going thru security that really made me laugh cause I literally pictured it happening and how embarrassing it must've been for her but her and her friends got a good laugh out of it once they all arrived at Bookcon in Las Vegas.

Bookcon is everything they dreamed of. They are meeting authors and voice narrators they fantasize about. There they can just let loose, be wild and have the time of their lives. They are living it up.

Hoping to hook up one of them hears a voice calling her name..... Surprised by her purchase she has made she is in for a trip to remember for a lifetime.

If you like sexy, romance smut you will enjoy this short read. I highly recommend going out of your comfort zone to give this book a try.

Thank you #NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book

[Kaitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Victoria is on her way to enjoy a weekend with the girl's at a book convention, she manages to cause a scene at the airport when her larger than life dildo won't stop vibrating in her carry on bag. She has to make a choice between missing her plane or missing her future orgasms. Dissapointed, she throws it in the trash and rushes to the gate.

At least she still has a fun weekend with her friends planned and a book convention to go to! At the convention, she notices an interesting book with a lot of sexy figurines. How odd? She swears one is calling her name. The vendor says they choose who they go home with, so if one is speaking to her she should take it with her! She hesitates, but comes back to find the Mexica warrior figurine still there calling her name. There's a funny inscription on the bottom that says "for a lover so remarkable you'd swear he was pulled right out of a fairy tale, simply give this effigy a lick."

What could possibly happen when she takes the statue back to her hotel? 😏 Gotta read this book to find out! 🤭

Thank you to Netgalley and Monty Amor for an ARC of this fun book!

[ObscureVi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

It's my second time reading a sentient object romance and I can only hope that third time will be the charm.

It was a very quick, rather lighthearted read with some spice (definitely a good break in between bigger books, a palette cleanser type as some like to call it), that I wished would capture me more, but unfortunately it didn't.

The airport scene did give me the second-hand embarrassment as it was probably supposed to and honestly, if something like that happened to me, I would disappear, change my name and move into another country or maybe into the woods where there's no teens with phones ready to record my every step.

What I did enjoy very much about the book was the quiet message, that no matter what happens in your life, you should always know your worth and never let anyone to make you feel like you're not enough. It's something that most of us have somewhere in the back of our head, but we all need a small reminder sometimes, that simple push in the right direction, especially when things aren't going our way.