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Spring Equinox Mates #1
Marked by the Monsters
I thought I was human.
I was wrong.
One minute I’m doing my job. The next, I’m drugged, caged, and thrown into a secret Syndicate breeding program where monsters aren’t just real—they’re owned.
Weaponized.
Broken.
They call them feral.
The four in the cells around me aren’t supposed to think. They aren’t supposed to feel. They definitely aren’t supposed to want.
But they do.
And worse?
They want me.
Thaw—the alpha who burns hot enough to destroy everything in his path.
Harek—the steady one who holds the line when the others start to break.
Crull—the silent wall of muscle and violence.
Fen—the beautiful, unstable one who looks at me like he remembers something he shouldn’t.
The Syndicate thinks they’re running an experiment.
They think I’m just another test subject.
They’re wrong.
Because something inside me is waking up—something that calls to them, pulls at them, binds them.
And the more the monsters come back from the edge of feral…
The more dangerous we all become.
Now I have to survive the program.
Survive the monsters.
Survive what my own body is starting to want.
Because if we don’t break out soon—
The Syndicate won’t just own them.
They’ll own me too.
Marked by the Monsters is a dark, spicy monster reverse harem romance featuring a covert breeding program, possessive monsters, forbidden bonds, and a heroine who was never meant to become powerful—but does anyway.
Tropes
Reverse Harem / Why Choose
Monster Romance
Covert Breeding Program
Possessive & Obsessive Monsters
Power Awakening
Dark Paranormal Romance
Perfect for readers who love Lola Glass, Eva Chase, J. Bree, Raven Kennedy, and Auryn Hadley.
I was wrong.
One minute I’m doing my job. The next, I’m drugged, caged, and thrown into a secret Syndicate breeding program where monsters aren’t just real—they’re owned.
Weaponized.
Broken.
They call them feral.
The four in the cells around me aren’t supposed to think. They aren’t supposed to feel. They definitely aren’t supposed to want.
But they do.
And worse?
They want me.
Thaw—the alpha who burns hot enough to destroy everything in his path.
Harek—the steady one who holds the line when the others start to break.
Crull—the silent wall of muscle and violence.
Fen—the beautiful, unstable one who looks at me like he remembers something he shouldn’t.
The Syndicate thinks they’re running an experiment.
They think I’m just another test subject.
They’re wrong.
Because something inside me is waking up—something that calls to them, pulls at them, binds them.
And the more the monsters come back from the edge of feral…
The more dangerous we all become.
Now I have to survive the program.
Survive the monsters.
Survive what my own body is starting to want.
Because if we don’t break out soon—
The Syndicate won’t just own them.
They’ll own me too.
Marked by the Monsters is a dark, spicy monster reverse harem romance featuring a covert breeding program, possessive monsters, forbidden bonds, and a heroine who was never meant to become powerful—but does anyway.
Tropes
Reverse Harem / Why Choose
Monster Romance
Covert Breeding Program
Possessive & Obsessive Monsters
Power Awakening
Dark Paranormal Romance
Perfect for readers who love Lola Glass, Eva Chase, J. Bree, Raven Kennedy, and Auryn Hadley.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 15, 2026
Woaaaah interesting read. The FMC is taken from her life and ends up in a cell and becomes a part of the experiment. So is it smutty? Yeah it definitely is BUT I wasn’t rolling my eyes as I normally would. It’s got some pretty dark theming in there where the smut actually makes sense. On to the next
May 24, 2026
The writing felt like AI, and nothing was explained. There was no world-building and no explanation, at least for the FMC's past. She was captured and then just went along with it. Who does that? She didn't even ask one question or demand some answers from the people who were examining her or dragging her from cell to lab and back to another cell... 🙄🙄
May 14, 2026
How many insta lust can you put in a book with so much bad writing? I don’t understand why the author decided to use short sentences without commas but it is annoying as hell.
And where does the 3,92* comes from? How can so many people give this book an overall of 3,92* Is it the insta lust? The many bad written sex scenes or a they new with the smut romances? Because there are many books out there that are better written and have way better insta lust scenes than this book. Just saying..
And where does the 3,92* comes from? How can so many people give this book an overall of 3,92* Is it the insta lust? The many bad written sex scenes or a they new with the smut romances? Because there are many books out there that are better written and have way better insta lust scenes than this book. Just saying..
June 19, 2026
The writing felt like AI.
September 5, 2026
38% DNF
OMG that was boring.
I was already skipping pages and the book has barely begun. The rinse and repeat and the heroines dissociation left a lot to be desired.
It's written as though Jen/Jess.... has it all together and knows what she's doing but short of not rolling around crying every 5 minutes, she doesn't actually do anything note worthy.
This also seems very smut driven to me, I thought we'd at least get some semblance of a plot.
Not for me.
OMG that was boring.
I was already skipping pages and the book has barely begun. The rinse and repeat and the heroines dissociation left a lot to be desired.
It's written as though Jen/Jess.... has it all together and knows what she's doing but short of not rolling around crying every 5 minutes, she doesn't actually do anything note worthy.
This also seems very smut driven to me, I thought we'd at least get some semblance of a plot.
Not for me.
July 28, 2026
Really she doesn't ask any questions?
Ok so there are some grammar issues, but those can be overlooked. But seriously you get kidnapped and don't ask why, what's going on, where am I. Nothing? You just stay quiet and fuck some random monsters. In the beginning she fought and then when caught it's like she's a different person. She could have at least put up a fight or asked questions. Something is better than what I read for 50% of the book. I could not even get past that point.
Ok so there are some grammar issues, but those can be overlooked. But seriously you get kidnapped and don't ask why, what's going on, where am I. Nothing? You just stay quiet and fuck some random monsters. In the beginning she fought and then when caught it's like she's a different person. She could have at least put up a fight or asked questions. Something is better than what I read for 50% of the book. I could not even get past that point.
July 20, 2026
missing baths
Lots of dirty monster jail sex and absolutely no reference to bathing. Please let us know they wash up once in awhile? Writing is ok. I really dislike the emphatic present tense that overuses descriptive sentence fragments. Words are always “Landing” or “settling” for even more emphasis. And when then that’s not enough, let’s overuse italics.
Lots of dirty monster jail sex and absolutely no reference to bathing. Please let us know they wash up once in awhile? Writing is ok. I really dislike the emphatic present tense that overuses descriptive sentence fragments. Words are always “Landing” or “settling” for even more emphasis. And when then that’s not enough, let’s overuse italics.
October 2, 2026
📚 Book: Marked by the Monsters by Vexa Volt
⭐ Rating: 2.75/5
🌶️ Spice: 4/5
📖 How I Read: Kindle Unlimited
💭 My Thoughts:
I'm not exactly sure what's going on in this book. The interactions with the four monsters felt repetitive, and while I'm curious to learn more about the backstories of the four males, I'm also curious about hers and why she is different.
The general plot involving the lab seems interesting, but there wasn't enough context for it to really hit the mark for me. There are definitely pieces of the story that made me curious, but I wanted more development and explanation to really pull everything together.
📚 Would I Recommend It?
Probably not. There were interesting ideas here, but overall, the story didn't connect with me enough for me to actively recommend it.
⭐ Rating: 2.75/5
🌶️ Spice: 4/5
📖 How I Read: Kindle Unlimited
💭 My Thoughts:
I'm not exactly sure what's going on in this book. The interactions with the four monsters felt repetitive, and while I'm curious to learn more about the backstories of the four males, I'm also curious about hers and why she is different.
The general plot involving the lab seems interesting, but there wasn't enough context for it to really hit the mark for me. There are definitely pieces of the story that made me curious, but I wanted more development and explanation to really pull everything together.
📚 Would I Recommend It?
Probably not. There were interesting ideas here, but overall, the story didn't connect with me enough for me to actively recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Unsure whether I liked this book, I didn't love it didn't hate it, have lots of questioned that weren't answered in it.
But be warned it ends on a cliffhanger.
She is kidnapped and drugged which then sends her into heat, and she has sex with monsters. What is not made clear in this book is why her, why is she different.
the story is all about being locked in a lab where every time she has sex with a monster she is then taken away for medical tests.
I want to know what happens next so I will read the next one, just hoping its not a trilogy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But be warned it ends on a cliffhanger.
She is kidnapped and drugged which then sends her into heat, and she has sex with monsters. What is not made clear in this book is why her, why is she different.
the story is all about being locked in a lab where every time she has sex with a monster she is then taken away for medical tests.
I want to know what happens next so I will read the next one, just hoping its not a trilogy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2026
🌟 4
I can’t believe I almost didn’t read this. A couple of crappy reviews and my own blasé attitude meant I initially gave it a pass. Luckily, I went back at the last second and decided to just give it a try.
This wasn’t the best story ever, but I guess when your expectations are already in the dirt, what you get is significantly better than what you expected 😂
I kinda gelled with it, ngl. The abrupt way of speaking actually felt appropriate for the situation? I dunno, but it didn’t grate on me at all. It just worked.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read for me. I can’t speak for everyone, obviously, but I had a good time with it. Sometimes a book just works for you, and this one did.
I can’t believe I almost didn’t read this. A couple of crappy reviews and my own blasé attitude meant I initially gave it a pass. Luckily, I went back at the last second and decided to just give it a try.
This wasn’t the best story ever, but I guess when your expectations are already in the dirt, what you get is significantly better than what you expected 😂
I kinda gelled with it, ngl. The abrupt way of speaking actually felt appropriate for the situation? I dunno, but it didn’t grate on me at all. It just worked.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read for me. I can’t speak for everyone, obviously, but I had a good time with it. Sometimes a book just works for you, and this one did.
May 10, 2026
I'm actually quite torn on this; i *really* liked the characters, the writing style, & the overall concept. But - even though you sort of figure out what's happening - nothing is ever 100% explained, so you don't REALLY know what's going on... & she just accepted the fact that she was kidnapped & this is her new life right away?! Why wasnt she asking ANY questions to ANYbody? Why wasn't she demanding answers? ....all that being said, though, i did really enjoy it & i'm kind of mad the next book isn't already available on KU so i can read it immediately.
September 5, 2026
marked by the monsters
Long and yet, not long enough. I tore through book one within 24 hours and I need more. I’m not sure what the TWs were/are but, if you’re reading this review prior to downloading, I will say that what there is is light.
Those that come to mind, while being vague are: Forced proximity, one bed, multiple mates, multiple pov (though mostly hers), scientific experimentation with forced heats (but nothing super graphic), with mention of forced breeding in the future.
Long and yet, not long enough. I tore through book one within 24 hours and I need more. I’m not sure what the TWs were/are but, if you’re reading this review prior to downloading, I will say that what there is is light.
Those that come to mind, while being vague are: Forced proximity, one bed, multiple mates, multiple pov (though mostly hers), scientific experimentation with forced heats (but nothing super graphic), with mention of forced breeding in the future.
September 5, 2026
Interesting. There is a lot yet to be explained as far as the background of the ‘monsters’ and the company’s for whom they worked/were forced to work.
And our heroine who got thrown into the deep end of everything manages on instinct alone We are given to understand at the beginning that she has a natural gift to read animals that helps. Plus, something in her genetics makes her able to bond with the ‘monsters’
The ending was very abrupt and you’ll need to get the next book in the series to see how things go. I think I will check it out just to see if they escape or not.
And our heroine who got thrown into the deep end of everything manages on instinct alone We are given to understand at the beginning that she has a natural gift to read animals that helps. Plus, something in her genetics makes her able to bond with the ‘monsters’
The ending was very abrupt and you’ll need to get the next book in the series to see how things go. I think I will check it out just to see if they escape or not.
October 2, 2026
what job?
Basically couldn’t work today bc I had to finish this book, it was that addicting and the ending has me in its grip I’m starting the next book ASAP!! Surprise twist at the end was lovely.
MFC human (maybe hybrid?) kidnapped and imprisoned with 4 feral MMCs (unconfirmed hybrids? Maybe dragon, troll, & vamp?).
Antagonist: the Syndicate which is referenced in the Winter Solstice Mates trilogy by Texa Volt I read before this. Since their activities in the lab/prison seem secret I cannot tell if this is before or after Winter Solstice Mates.
Basically couldn’t work today bc I had to finish this book, it was that addicting and the ending has me in its grip I’m starting the next book ASAP!! Surprise twist at the end was lovely.
MFC human (maybe hybrid?) kidnapped and imprisoned with 4 feral MMCs (unconfirmed hybrids? Maybe dragon, troll, & vamp?).
Antagonist: the Syndicate which is referenced in the Winter Solstice Mates trilogy by Texa Volt I read before this. Since their activities in the lab/prison seem secret I cannot tell if this is before or after Winter Solstice Mates.
May 7, 2026
3.5⭐️ I’m on the fence with this one. While the plot sounded good, it didn’t execute it fully. I was a little lost since there was really no background about any of them. What was the purpose of all of this? The spice was good. All of the main characters were great. This just felt more surface level. I wish there had been more depth and description. I’m still debating if I want to read the next one…
June 6, 2026
I should give this book 3 stars FOR ENDING ON A CLIFFHANGER!
Oh, my. I am so upset that this freaking awesome book ends in a cliffhanger. The only reason that I am not punching holes in the wall and flipping the kitchen table over with dinner still on it is because the next book comes out in a few days...
Seriously though...what a fabulous book. I saw a FB ad and immediately downloaded it. Best decision of my life.
Oh, my. I am so upset that this freaking awesome book ends in a cliffhanger. The only reason that I am not punching holes in the wall and flipping the kitchen table over with dinner still on it is because the next book comes out in a few days...
Seriously though...what a fabulous book. I saw a FB ad and immediately downloaded it. Best decision of my life.
July 21, 2026
Texa Volt knew how to simply and quickly draw you in as fast as chapter one. It had an interesting plot and a solid story. The characters and the storyline were great. Steamy, RH, Monster Romance. But it was missing some valuable info throughout the story in order to make more sense. Such as Jen’s plot as needing her background for things to make sense. But what we basically know is she is not the only prisoner in this situation.
May 17, 2026
Totally EXCELLENT
Kidnapped by people for reasons unknown. Thrown into a prison with monsters. Experimented on, clinically evaluated and then, thrown into the same cells as the monsters. Thanks Texa, I really enjoyed reading this story and hope I don't have long to wait to read more.
Kidnapped by people for reasons unknown. Thrown into a prison with monsters. Experimented on, clinically evaluated and then, thrown into the same cells as the monsters. Thanks Texa, I really enjoyed reading this story and hope I don't have long to wait to read more.
June 2, 2026
Fab hot captive story
I loved this hot story about Jen who is captured and put into a cage inside a facility. She learns she is not the only prisoner and is slowly introduced to her cell mates. It appears they are all being experimented on and the end result is Jen becoming pregnant. But luckily, reinforcements are on their way.
I loved this hot story about Jen who is captured and put into a cage inside a facility. She learns she is not the only prisoner and is slowly introduced to her cell mates. It appears they are all being experimented on and the end result is Jen becoming pregnant. But luckily, reinforcements are on their way.
August 2, 2026
1.75⭐️ - 3🌶
☆ Why choose
☆ Forced mating bonds
☆ Trafficking/Breeding
☆ Monster MMCs
☆ Captive/captive
This story follows our FMC who get captured and imprisoned in an underground breeding program. She is imprisoned alongside 4 men who are declared "feral". They experiment on them and force them to mate and bond.
Calling this book a romance is a gross exaggeration. First, they are all prisoners and every single sexual interaction they have is after being drugged with something that makes them extremely aroused. That's not consent. And it's not romance.
The other thing I think is inexcusable is the fact that there are no trigger warnings at the start of the book and no author website to find them either. Readers would go into this book maybe expecting something similar to the Winter Solstice Mates series, since it's in the same world. Wrong. They could not be more different.
I think this book does have its audience, but it isn't me. Not unprepared anyway. I will not continue with the series. It's a shame since I liked the other one so much. If you choose to read this, be prepared.
☆ Why choose
☆ Forced mating bonds
☆ Trafficking/Breeding
☆ Monster MMCs
☆ Captive/captive
This story follows our FMC who get captured and imprisoned in an underground breeding program. She is imprisoned alongside 4 men who are declared "feral". They experiment on them and force them to mate and bond.
Calling this book a romance is a gross exaggeration. First, they are all prisoners and every single sexual interaction they have is after being drugged with something that makes them extremely aroused. That's not consent. And it's not romance.
The other thing I think is inexcusable is the fact that there are no trigger warnings at the start of the book and no author website to find them either. Readers would go into this book maybe expecting something similar to the Winter Solstice Mates series, since it's in the same world. Wrong. They could not be more different.
I think this book does have its audience, but it isn't me. Not unprepared anyway. I will not continue with the series. It's a shame since I liked the other one so much. If you choose to read this, be prepared.
August 25, 2026
Writing style made this hard to follow, I got to the end of this book and im not reading the next installment. I think this could be really great if there was some sort of explanation for what the facility is, why was the mc taken? Why is she so special? As always I recommend reading the book for yourself. 3 stars from me because I finished the book.
September 14, 2026
This has to be AI. I looked for the author on socials and found nothing. All we get in this book is choppy sentences, statements instead of questions, a lot of weird dialog and prison sex. That’s it. We don’t know anything other than she was very accepting of being imprisoned, tested on and becoming mates with feral monsters. Like.. hello?!
May 13, 2026
Not sure how to feel about this book. I wanted to like it. But it was really boring. The pieces were there, they just didn’t really fit. You’re just waiting the whole book for something to happen. Maybe book two will be better?
June 16, 2026
its an interesting premise but the writing is stiff on purpose. author thinks. thinks that writing like this has more impact. impact to the listener. but it just is disconnecting. especially when the story kicks off. shes held in lab with others they expermint on
June 22, 2026
The perfect book that allows you to just turn your brain off, couch rot, and enjoy the smutty ride.
I took a star off because the amount of times I had to read “wrecked” was driving me nuts. A few other adjectives would have helped make the sentiment not feel so repetitive.
I took a star off because the amount of times I had to read “wrecked” was driving me nuts. A few other adjectives would have helped make the sentiment not feel so repetitive.
July 13, 2026
Interesting turn of events
Nicely written…
Good world building….
Interesting characters, the depravity of horrible doctors and their lack of empathy or conscious, and the sadness I feel for the main characters.
Cliffhanger with new characters being introduced.
Nicely written…
Good world building….
Interesting characters, the depravity of horrible doctors and their lack of empathy or conscious, and the sadness I feel for the main characters.
Cliffhanger with new characters being introduced.
June 11, 2026
Woah!
New author to me and this book is REALLY good. I'm not the most eloquent, so just get this book already!
New author to me and this book is REALLY good. I'm not the most eloquent, so just get this book already!
June 23, 2026
This book has chatgp written all over it 🤦🏽♀️
June 24, 2026
Well, beginning of the book I liked but then didn't know how a monster on the other side of the wall was going to help her. Or maybe I just couldn't get into it. got to 38%.
July 5, 2026
I hope to get some more information
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews