Selkie AU: Beyond the Storm

Because Canon Sucks

by Arlo August, Arlo August, Ronan Marlow

On a stormy night, fisherman Rowan takes his boat out to sea, intending for it to become his coffin, instead it becomes a life raft for a beautiful stranger with inhuman features.

Captivated and intrigued, Rowan sees no other option and takes the injured stranger back home, only when he wakes, Milo decides he doesn’t want to leave.

Rowan has no purpose, and Milo is burdened with a purpose that feels too great for him. But Milo believes the burden of being the next chosen ruler might finally be eased when the ever present guidance from the Selkie Goddess urges him to stay with the fisherman. But what happens when he uncovers the reason his goddess wants him on land has nothing to do with Rowan at all?

At the potential of losing Milo, Rowan must determine if the annoying sunshine constantly beaming out of the flirtatious selkie might actually be the lighthouse this fisherman needs to find home.

Additional tags: mm romance, rowan/milo, fisherman/selkie prince, human/selkie, selkie milo, folklore, selkie AU, alternate universe, except it’s like this universe there’s just selkies, secretly, forced proximity, hurt/comfort, found family, tooth-rotting fluff, happy ending, caretaking, mpreg, because baby selkie, nesting, did i mention baby selkie, theres only one bed, its rowan, rowan is the bed, reversed kidnapping, selkie caught first feelings caught later, milo steals rowans fish as well as his heart, target audience: me, i can not stress this enough: baby selkie,

Selkie AU is a standalone MM novel based on the short story, Canon, written by AM Rose for the fanfic-style multi author series Because Canon Sucks. In Canon, Milo and Rowan miss out on their happy ever after, so this series strives to give them one in every other universe.

Genres: Shapeshifters, M M Romance, Omegaverse, Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Magic

257 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 12, 2026

Reviews

[labibliofille]

I ate this one up almost as fast as Milo eats anything Rowan makes him.

I have few words here, and for all the best reasons! PLUS there's going to be a spinoff series following side characters in Selkie AU?! SIGN ME UP! Gosh, I loved Rolo in this one and I cannot wait to see where Arlo takes us next.

[Laura Lou]

Beyond The Storm is a Selkie AU story and part of the Because Canon Sucks series. This MM romance story about Milo and Rowan.

Milo is a selkie prince and Rowan is a human fisherman. Rowan struggles with depression and loneliness. He was out on the water when he discovered and saved an injured Milo. I loved how Rowan took care of Milo and was so patient with him. And I couldn’t help but fall for the little hurricane Milo. It was so fun to see him discover the human world.

This was the first time I’ve read about a selkie and I definitely found it so interesting. I also wanted to mention I haven’t read much mpreg so I was a little nervous, but I did enjoy it in this story. Rowan and Milo’s grumpy/sunshine dynamic was great, and I thought they were just so sweet together. Such an adorable story!

[martina (the life of a chaotic reader)]

i was one time jump away from killing myself

[Julia Toth]

I really enjoyed this! Ronan Marlow stepped away from his darker books to write this omegaverse story and I'm here for it! I really enjoyed Milo and Rowan's story. The book was interesting and fun to read. I loved how bratty and pouty Milo was when he wanted something badly. Rowan could be stern, but he was still so in love with Milo that he couldn't deny all of his wants and needs. Rowan was such a caretaker and I loved seeing him pamper and dote on Milo. I loved how they found each other and how the goddess blessed them and helped them live the life they wanted. I really enjoyed all of the side characters we got introduced to in this story. Despite this being a shorter novel there was a lot packed into it, and I really enjoyed that.

If you enjoy selkies and other supernatural beings then this is the book for you. This book is fun, lighthearted and interesting to read.

[Dani (Daniiireads)]

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from Rowan and Milo’s story—it was definitely fluffy and adorable and incredibly horny, but had some action and adventure too!

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- selkie + fisherman
- reversed kidnapping
- grumpy x sunshine
- size difference
- only one bed/nest
- chosen mates
- different anatomy
- depression rep
- caretaking
- mpreg

[Aleja]

MM romance | Shifter Romance | Selkie/Human | Grumpy/Sunshine (Brat) | Chosen Mates | Depression Rep | Size Difference | Mpreg | Heat | Nesting | Fisting | Sex toys | Blowjobs | Mild Somno


Okay, definitivamente esto fue una grata sorpresa! Me ha encantado completamente esta historia y todo el mundo que el autor creó.

No tengo mucho más que decir (aún estoy intentando procesarlo jaja), pero lo que más me sorprendió fue el ritmo de lectura que llevé. Últimamente he estado con pequeños bloqueos lectores, así que leer un libro del tirón me cuesta un poco; pero con este, ni bien lo empecé ya estaba al 30-40% y, si no fuera porque anoche me dio sueño, lo hubiera terminado ayer mismo. Definitivamente este no será el último libro que lea de este autor, eso desde ya!

Rowan me encantó completamente y Milo... qué decir de Milo? siempre es un placer leerlo. Amo que cada autor de esta serie cree su propia versión de él, pero que a su vez todas mantengan esa esencia que las hace parecerse entre sí lol 😂

PD: Kova, aquí estaré esperando tu historia con muchísimas ansias! Y principalmente quiero saber si tu pareja realmente será Rory 👀🔥
PD 2: Y qué pasó realmente con ese niño selkie que encontraron en el fuerte pero que luego terminó escapando? 👀 Necesito respuestas porque me dejó con muchísima intriga.

〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️

Okay, this was definitely such a pleasant surprise! I completely fell in love with this story and the entire world the author built.

I don’t have much else to say right now (still trying to process it all haha), but what surprised me the most was the reading pace I managed to keep. I’ve been struggling with minor reading slumps lately, so reading a book in one sitting is usually tough for me, but with this one, as soon as I started, I was already 30-40% in. If I hadn't gotten so sleepy last night, I would have finished it yesterday! This definitely won’t be the last book I read by this author that’s for sure.

I completely adored Rowan, and Milo... what can I even say about Milo? He is always such a joy to read. I love how every author in this series creates their own version of him, while still keeping that core essence that makes them all feel connected lol😂

P.S.: Kova, I’ll be right here eagerly waiting for your story! And most importantly, I need to know if your partner is actually going to be Rory 👀🔥
P.S. 2: Also, what actually happened to that selkie kid they found in the fort who ended up escaping? 👀 I need answers because that left me so intrigued!

[Alyssa]

Selkie AU (Beyond The Storm) is just further proof that Ronan Marlow is an incredibly talented author. Seeing a fluffier, more lighthearted side to this author is so fun and shows incredible range. It’s funny, it’s romantic, it’s sexy, it’s different. It is the beautiful writing you have come to know from Ronan Marlow but with a sweet and fun twist of Arlo August. I was lucky enough to get to read an early edition of this book and as always, cannot wait to see what comes next for this author.

[Marie:)]

I loved Milo and Rowan so freaking much🥹🥹
This book was so sweet and I couldn’t get enough of it! Definitely cried no one’s shocked haha. I loved how they chose eachother no matter what🫶

[Lionelle Pmuls (That's Slump Backwards & It's What I Do)]

RTC

[Megan reads now!]

Adorable

What's not to love about Omegaverse? Arlo has launched into the genre with a great first installment. This is my first seal shifter romance, and I loved it. Milo is officially a favorite character of mine. He is sunshine incarnate (and chaos, too). Milo falls hard and fast for Rowen, who is hard pressed to deny him.

"It was only a matter of time before he gave up on his futile resistance and realized we were perfect for each other. He was great a making food, and I was great at eating it. Perfect. Match."

There are some hard moments for Rowen. When the book opens Rowen is at his darkest, and it is shown quite poignantly by August.

The urge had existed quietly in the back of my mind for weeks, months, years. A hollow feeling gradually expanding. Swallowing me. Filling me with so much nothing. A void that took up more space than I thought I contained.

However, after that it is low-angst and steam. There is a bit of an adventure and August does a great job laying the groundwork for future installments in this universe as well as additional Omegaverse stories.

All in all, a fun time. Read it!

[Aelin Sage]

I loved this so much. There’s a twist near the end where I almost thought I was gonna end up devastated. I should have known better but I was so invested from page 1. Milo and Rowan are so cute. Milo is such a brat, I kept giggling at his antics. This is the book for you if you want mm, omegaverse, selkie x human, and a good time had.

[Cassie]

Loved this! Milo’s innocence of the human world is hilarious and had me giggling to myself many times. Rowan is the perfect human mate for him and I’m so happy he found Milo. Seeing the change in his thoughts of himself and life from the beginning of the story to the end, was a beautiful change. Absolutely loved this and can’t wait to read the next one!

[kilmosnaps]

Selkie + fisherman x grumpy sunshine x canon divergence x shifter romance x serendipity

I read the 19 page short story(Canon - AM Rose) this Canon Sucks series is based on.

Oh this SO CUTE! For some reason I thought they died and that’s why the series is different authors giving them a happy ending. It’s because they have a meet cute at the airport and have to part ways before getting each others numbers. It’s Serendipity in a book series. I LOVE a “I would find you in any universe.”

This started haunting with Rowan dealing with ideation and actively looking to end things and then he meets Milo and it was great seeing how things are instantly better but he learns to appreciate life through his little hurricane!

I really enjoyed their grumpy x sunshine dynamic. Milo totally reversed kidnapped himself cause he knew what he wanted and what he wanted was his mate: Rowan.

I love any variation of mermaid folklore. I liked it was outside forces being dastardly with the skins. I appreciated learning about the Selke and the other creatures in this world. The world building was fantastic and intricate.

Ps. This is also mpreg! I also really enjoy the desperation of a heat, especially when the partner isn’t used to it and has to adapt.

The author forward mentioned he was making a universe as Arlo August from these characters so I humbly request:
1. Kova, the Aarlinuk (orca kinda shifter) is book 2!!!! He can speak with the goddess (which is strange) and has a fated mate, per the bonus chapter. Can’t wait for May 2027!
2. Raq, Milo’s Selkie BFF - made a joke about having to try a human
3. Siku - Rescued bear shifter

I also definitely read the other books in the series,

Canon:
Until he finally realized what that ugly feeling in his stomach was. Regret. Because Milo was going to Virginia. That was on the opposite end of the country from where Rowan was going. And Rowan, in all his infinite wisdom… never asked for his number.

Selke AU:
It wasn’t that I wanted to die. That wasn’t why I was going to do it.

He was a selkie. I’d known he wasn’t human, but a selkie? I’d heard of them, but I’d have thought if they existed it would be in Scotland or Ireland. Though if Greenland had a lot of something, it was seals.

When we were mates, he would definitely need to find a way to take me with him when he went to do his “human stuff.”

It was only a matter of time before he gave up on his futile resistance and realized we were perfect for each other. He was great at making food, and I was great at eating it. Perfect. Match.

His fingers traced down his body until two of them traced over his slit beneath his d*ck, then pressed inside. “Wanna see if you’ll fit inside me?” he purred. My c*ck leaked precum just at his words, and I groaned. I couldn’t take my eyes off where he was fingering himself. Fuck, that was so hot.

“You’re a sex demon,” he mumbled. “What’s a sex demon?” “It’s what you are.” “Is it a good thing?” “I haven’t decided yet.” “Decide after your d*ck is inside me.” “That’s just what a sex demon would say.” Rowan groaned. “You make it very hard for me to think.”

His hands found my hips in a bruising hold that made me deliriously happy. “I f*cked you when I was tired, little hurricane. Now I’m going to show you how I f*ck when I’m awake.”

“That’s why she led me to you.” He smiled, pressing his lips to mine softly. “So we could save each other. Can’t you see it now? This is what we’re supposed to be.” I couldn’t stop my tears, and I wasn’t sure I wanted to anymore. “I don’t know how.” “That’s okay. Neither do I. We can learn together.”

“F*ck, Milo. You feel so good, baby.” “More,” he panted. “Need more.”

Every dark sea contained a lighthouse to guide the lost back home. And there was always sunshine beyond the storm.

Bonus
Mate? What was that supposed to mean? In all the time she’d been speaking to me, she’d never mentioned anything about a mate before. “I do not have a mate.” “But you will. I’ve chosen one just for you.”

[Puppets & Paperbacks]

This is a late ARC review

This is an MM Omegaverse story with MPreg ( there is a baby at the end of this). Make sure you know what that means before reading.

This is part of the Because Canon Sucks Series and can be read as a standalone. It is also not necessary to read Canon the book that started the series. However, doing so will give you a greater appreciation for Rowan and Milo.

One note about this series is that it is written as fan fiction. Actually, this one was the first story that didn’t have the author notes before and after like fan fiction generally does.

Rowan in this story is a human who lives in the arctic and specifically it felt like Greenland because of how the houses are described, the people, the land, and the animals. However, it could be anywhere within the northern region, but the way the Orca-shifters were described and Raq’s name, among the names of other characters, gave Inuit language vibes. We would believe if the author had some experience living in cold arctic climates.


Rowan is such a damn teddy bear in this story and a grumpy one at that *swoon*. He’s kind of a depressed man and maybe has no will to live anymore when we are first introduced to him. Make sure to check those TW as he has these thoughts and feelings throughout the story. Milo provides him hope and a will to survive.

Milo is still an agent of chaos and 100% falls first when meeting Rowan. If it were up to Milo they’d be mated on day one. Milo does a great job of getting Rowan to soften and accept his love. Really he wears Rowan down and it’s what he needed, honestly. Also being a selkie has made being on land a new wonderful adventure for Milo. Milo’s childlike wonder at the human land dwellers gives Rowan the ability to see the world from a newness perspective. Given that he has to teach Milo what everything is.

Their whole dynamic and story is very cute. Almost hallmark romance ( mind you we’ve never seen a hallmark movie), but their relationship just felt low stakes despite the world around them not being low stakes. Their love is also cute and smutty as hell. Totally adorable and don’t forget the pregnancy and baby.

The other great thing about this story is the lore and world of the shifters. There are several shifters described in this story you just want to know all of them and read their stories. Okay, but we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

Okay, besides the love plot. There is also this other story with Miki, another selkie who has had their fur coat stolen from them by poachers. This rescue mission and take down of the arctic poachers becomes another storyline that is damn amazing. It could be a whole other book.

Within this selkie coat rescue not only are other shifters introduced and an epic battle ensues. There is also setup for a next book as well as the potential for a third act break up, which doesn’t happen. Don’t worry. It just seems like it, but we know Rowan and Milo are endgame.

What happens to them is actually really romantic and you have to read it to see how they’re able to stay together because did we forget to tell you Milo is the selkie prince. Oops!

There is another human and selkie relationship, with a cute half-selkie baby, Miki the selkie with the missing coat. Their side character story is well done. You want more of them and in the story of Rowan and Milo you feel like you also get Miki’s story. It’s really sweet that they become friends and that their children love-hate each other. It’s really sweet.

The story is well written, you’ll love all the characters, and how everything unfolds. This was a new to us author and we are totally hooked on them. We loved this story so much and we loved their nicknames for each other. We loved how the MPreg was done and how baby selkies were introduced to the water. It was all so damn adorable and just fluffy and heart warming.

[Em Yardy]

Arlo August (Ronan Marlow) really looked at Rowan and said, "You know what this depressed fisherman needs? A chaotic, thieving selkie with zero concept of personal space." And honestly... 10/10 decision. 😂

There is something so special about taking characters you already love and dropping them into a completely different world, while somehow making them feel even more like themselves. That's exactly what this book did. Because Canon Sucks.

This story starts in an unexpectedly heavy place, with Rowan drowning beneath the weight of loneliness and depression, and it completely broke my heart. A grumpy and depressed fisherman decides today is the day to enter the storm and never come back... too bad fate was like, "Psych, bitch! Here's a fiery klepto selkie shifter instead." 😂🤣 Sorry, no refunds.

And Milo?

OH. MY. GODDESS.

Little Hurricane Milo is the only acceptable description for this adorable menace. His endless curiosity about humans, complete lack of understanding boundaries, and unwavering certainty that Rowan was his mate had me laughing the entire book.

I mean...

"Milo!" I shouted... "What are you doing in here?"
"I wanted to see what a shower was."
"It's like a waterfall!"
...before immediately trying to steal the shower head.

Peak Milo behaviour. No notes.

Or this absolute gem...

"It was some bizarre case of reverse kidnapping, and I was far too tired to deal with it now."

Honestly, Rowan spent this entire book trying to convince himself he wasn't completely gone for this little hurricane, while literally everyone including Milo, fate, and probably the Goddess herself already knew better.

Milo's internal logic absolutely sent me.

"He was great at making food, and I was great at eating it. Perfect. Match."

I cannot argue with that reasoning.

Their relationship is everything I wanted. Funny, ridiculously sweet, deeply emotional, and yes... dangerously spicy. Rowan tries so hard to resist, but poor man never stood a chance.

When Milo says...

"I feel you. You're as familiar to me as my coat. More of a home than the sea. My goddess led me to you, yes, but I'm choosing you."

EXCUSE ME WHILE I SOB.

And then Rowan completely destroys what's left of my heart...

"I'd been ready to sink. And then came Milo. He was a beam of light... He was my home."

Someone hand me tissues immediately.

Don't get me wrong though... the emotional damage is beautifully balanced by absolute chaos.

Like Milo genuinely wondering...

"Was his dick just always... out? That didn't seem very safe."

Or casually sniffing Rowan because obviously that's perfectly normal.

"What are you doing?"
"Sniffing you."

No thoughts. Just selkie things.

And the flirting?

Rowan: "You're a sex demon."

Milo: "Decide after your dick is inside me."

Rowan: "That's just what a sex demon would say."

I was DONE. 💀😂

This was actually my first introduction to an mpreg omegaverse, and honestly... it did not disappoint. I'm so glad I read this because this book was endearing, sweet, low-key hilarious, emotionally devastating when it wanted to be, and ridiculously addictive.

The world-building deserves its own applause too. The Selkies, Aarlinuk, the Goddess, and the colony all felt alive instead of simply existing as a backdrop for the romance. It genuinely feels like there's an entire universe waiting to be explored, and I already need the next book.

Also...

THERE'S A SELKIE BABY.

That's it.

That's the review.

Actually no...

The selkie baby had me rubbing hearts out of my eyes for the rest of the night. 😍

This short, fast-paced, and dangerously spicy read is absolutely a one-sitting book. I laughed, swooned, kicked my feet, giggled like an idiot, and somehow fell even more in love with Rowan and Milo.

Special mention to Rowan calling Milo "little hurricane"and "little selkie," because I melted every single time.

Arlo August (Ronan Marlow) just doesn't miss. 🤷‍♀️

Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the next trip back into this universe because that ending left me with the biggest smile on my face and approximately zero patience.

[Miss Lady Orchid]

These two are so freaking adorable!

From the very beginning, Milo and Rowan completely stole my heart, and I found myself smiling through so much of their journey. It balances humor, warmth, whimsy, and romance in a way that feels effortless, making it one of those stories that's simply fun to experience.

Milo was my favorite character. I loved how determined he was in absolutely everything he did. Even when he was objectively wrong, he didn't give up. Instead, he'd come up with an entirely new plan to somehow make reality fit his conclusion. That stubbornness could have made him frustrating, but it was balanced so well by his genuine thoughtfulness and curiosity that he became incredibly lovable. He's 100% brat-coded, and that personality was the perfect complement to

Rowan's naturally grumpy, caretaker instincts. Watching Milo discover the human world was
endlessly entertaining, and I lost it when he became completely obsessed with the clothes dryer.

I’m torn between wanting to gag at the seaweed and marshmallows, and wanting to try it.

Rowan was a character I connected with more than I expected. His isolation due to his circumstances was relatable. I thought it was interesting that Rowan was so disconnected from his family, yet via the chat they seemed very connected to him. It reminded me how easy it can be to feel alone, even when you have people quietly supporting you. I think that's something we all can relate to. Part of me would have loved to see more scenes between Rowan, Milo, and Rowan's family, but I also understand why the story kept distance there. It reinforced Rowan's emotional state and made his comfort at finding his own family feel more meaningful.

One of my favorite aspects of the story was that I truly never knew where it was headed. Every time I thought I had figured out the direction, it surprised me. The selkie world was wonderfully imagined, and I loved the idea of their underwater homes. Somehow they felt both magical and incredibly cozy despite being beneath the frigid north Atlantic ocean. Discovering that world alongside Rowan made it even more immersive, and I adored watching him desperately try to impress Milo's family.

The pacing stayed consistently smooth throughout, keeping me engaged from beginning to end. The characters remained true to themselves, and their growth never felt forced. Their relationship developed naturally and didn’t feel forced.

Overall, this is a charming, magical romance filled with lovable characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of heart. I'd highly recommend it to readers who enjoy M/M omegaverse, open-door romance, magical creatures, and stories full of whimsy and warmth.

[Laura Loves 2 Read]

My very late ARC Review

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
🦭 Selkie + fisherman
🎣 Grumpy x sunshine
🦭 Size difference
🎣 Only one bed/nest
🦭 Chosen mates
🎣 Depression rep
🦭 Caretaking
🎣 Mpreg

It was noted that some character names and details were changed to fit this reimagined AU, and let me tell you, I was all in. This is another AU that completely stole my heart, and I already know I'll be rereading it. This world doesn't simply exist around Rowan and Milo, it breathes alongside them. The selkies, the Aarlinuk, the Goddess, and the colony felt wonderfully alive, making this world impossible not to fall in love with. ✨🖤🌊

This story kicks off with Rowan drowning in loneliness, grief, and depression, and honestly, my heart never stood a chance. This grumpy fisherman decides the storm is calling his name and he’s ready to disappear for good… and fate goes, “Oh, absolutely f***king not.” Instead, it drops a fiery, thieving selkie shifter into his path. Sir, your tragic exit has been cancelled. No refunds. No exchanges.

And Milo? This chaotic little selkie hurriacane (I loved this pet name) was an absolute delight. He invades Rowan's life, his personal space, and basically his entire future with the confidence of someone who has already decided they're mates and that's that. No discussion required. Watching him bulldoze Rowan's emotional walls was equal parts hilarious and adorable. I will say Milo as a selkie was something I never knew I needed, and now that I've experienced it, there is no going back.

As Milo said “Rowan was great at making food, and he was great at eating it. Perfect. Match."
But beneath all the laughs, nesting shenanigans, and excellent spice, there's a beautiful story about healing, hope, and learning that you're worthy of being loved. Rowan's struggle with depression felt incredibly real, and some of those conversations genuinely hit me right in the feelings. I am so pleased that we will get to revisit this AU in the future.

Final verdict: Read this for the cheeky selkie. Stay for the fiercely protective mate, the heart-melting romance, and Rowan repeatedly losing the battle against Milo's charm. Oh and there's a baby selkie...Adorable!!

[Mayami]

First thought was this book is another one that reads like poetry, which I think this author is able to do in all their books. Beautiful writing makes you cozy up into the book, which I could tell even from the first few pages, I was going to do. It presents the feeling and mood of the book and characters in a way that completely engrosses you.

“I didn’t want to go anywhere else. I didn’t want to be here either” I loved that line. It’s sadness, it’s surrender, what one would say when they no longer had the energy to feel or live. It’s not even darkness, it’s nothingness. It’s numb. It’s existing. It’s emptiness. It’s pointless. You get all that from such a simple line and I love books like that. There were a few times where the writing continues with this expressive cadence, and then all of a sudden Rowan comments on hiding his junk or Milo’s upset not being able to explore Rowan’s dick and I’m just off to the side laughing for 5 mins. It’s not a bad thing at all! It shows there’s still humor in this book. It shows their personalities and I made it all the more fun. And Milo being a brat!?! That’s one of my favorite things to read! Him stomping his foot all the time just cemented that! Lol It’s another one of those books where I had a smile permanently cemented onto my face, especially when Milo is on scene. (Selkie Milo is now on my fav MCs list!) He’s the type of character that takes home in your mind and you don’t forget.

Once you get into the story, Milo is plain adorable! He’s so endearing and full of life, innocent and curious that you can’t help but feel warmth towards him. You instantly have a fondness without him even trying.

“I don’t know how you could be more than you already are. You’ve already given me more than I could ever want”. We get the see Rowan completely transform. To live again. To love. Opening to affection, tenderness, allowing Milo’s glow to infect him. Love love LOVE this book, and Selkie Milo is definitely going to be staying with me for a good while. Can’t wait to read more about Rory, Milo and Rowan, and Kova! 5 seaweed marshmallows for this book!

[Jasper (Screaming Opossum Reads)]

Thank you to Arlo August for the ARC read. Seals are one of the favorite animals in my house, and I was so excited for selkies. Milo as a cranky seal galumping around was everything I wanted and then some. Even sunshine characters get annoyed at stubborn grumpy humans sometimes.

Milo as a selkie is everything. Arlo wrote him in a way that seal is so believable, and there’s definitely that classic Ariel quality to him with his curiosity for human objects even before meeting Rowan.

And Rowan, our dear 6’7” hunk of grump and chronic depression. Our beloved. Who gets roped into so much when all he really wants is to stay home. Or on his boat. And not have to go save the (figurative) world.

But he follows his gung-ho Selkie anyway. Cause who else is going to keep him alive, for starters.

But the depression rep in this, guys. As someone who has dealt with chronic depression for way too long…it’s good. It’s there. It’s a big part of why Milo & Rowan even meet. But it’s just a factor of Rowan, but one that is addressed even after being used as a catalyst. Cause depression doesn’t just leave cause you meet the love of your life, even if that means learning new ways to cope, because someone is a persistent little selkie full of sunshine. That’s really a part of this book that struck me the most- the acknowledgment of that, of it being a part of a character without it being the main plot point, the reality that sometimes…you’re just sad. Nothing causes it, really. It just is.

But baby Rory and his resting grump face, my heart. I keep looking at that character art series and going all 😍😍😍😍

Baby Rory, guys.

The book really is worth all the hype. And I loved seeing Selkies in literature, we don’t see that specific mythological creature much. And the fact that this is just the beginning of a universe has me so happy.

-MM romance
-Selkie x human
-Inhuman/atypical genitalia
-Mpreg
-Grumpy x sunshine
-Depression rep
-Chosen mates
-Size difference (6” in height, but Rowan is just…bi

[Anisha Choudhury | A Literary Autopsy]

5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of Selkie AU: Beyond the Storm by Ronan Marlow (Arlo August) in exchange for an honest review.

Selkie AU: Beyond the Storm by Ronan Marlow (writing as Arlo August) is a breathtaking standalone MM novel and part of the brilliant Because Canon Sucks multi-author series, which is dedicated to giving Milo and Rowan the happy-ever-after they missed out on in A.M. Rose's original short story. The narrative kicks off on a stormy night when a depressed, lonely fisherman named Rowan takes his boat out to sea looking for an end, only to rescue a beautiful, injured stranger with inhuman features instead.

Instead of leaving, the sunshine-filled, flirtatious selkie prince Milo decides to stay, turning Rowan’s isolated life upside down. While Milo initially believes the Selkie Goddess guided him ashore for a grand destiny as Rowan's mate instead of his colony's chosen ruler, he soon discovers her reasons have nothing to do with land at all—yet the goddess ultimately listens to his prayers so he can remain with his chosen mate. Complete with secret poachers to dismantle, forced proximity, a baby selkie pup named Rory, and Rowan literally acting as the "only bed," this story delivers on every front.

Even for readers who don't typically lean toward fantasy, this alternate-universe tale is a triumph. The emotional core shines through Rowan’s internal struggle—believing he is too grumpy and depressed for someone like Milo—and Milo’s relentless, cheerful insistence on breaking down Rowan's walls. The balance of high-stakes action (like taking down poachers with Milo's colony), hurt/comfort caretaking, nesting, and a 5/5 spice level makes it an unforgettable read.

Selkie AU: Beyond the Storm is an absolute masterpiece of cozy, fluffy romance. If you love fated mates, forced proximity, secret selkies, and an abundance of adorable baby selkie content, this is a must-read.

[angie_bookrecs]

There is something so special about taking characters you already love and dropping them into a completely different world, while somehow making them feel even more like themselves. That's exactly what this book did.

This story starts in an unexpectedly heavy place, with Rowan drowning beneath the weight of loneliness and depression, and it completely broke my heart. Watching him slowly find hope again through the absolute force of nature that is Milo made every emotional moment feel meaningful.

And Milo? Oh my goddess. He completely stole the show!! His endless curiosity about humans, his complete lack of understanding boundaries, and his unwavering certainty that Rowan was meant to be his mate had me laughing constantly. Hurricane Milo is the only acceptable description for him. Poor Rowan never even stood a chance.

Their relationship is everything I wanted. It's funny, ridiculously sweet, deeply emotional, and incredibly spicy. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but what I loved was watching Rowan slowly learn that he didn't have to earn love. Milo chooses him again and again without hesitation, and seeing Rowan finally believe he is worthy of that love was just beautiful.

The emotional moments hit just as hard as the action, and the balance between heartbreak, humour, romance, danger, and scorching chemistry was absolutely perfect. I laughed, I swooned, I got emotional, and I couldn't stop turning the pages.

The world building was another standout for me. The Selkies, the Aarlinuk, the Goddess, and the colony all felt rich and immersive while leaving so much room for future stories. It never felt like the world existed only for this romance. It felt alive, with endless possibilities waiting to be explored, and I already can't wait to dive back into this universe!!

The ending left me with the biggest smile on my face and so much excitement for what's coming next. That final tease has me desperately waiting for the next book already.

[GreenwingReads]

I've been on a quest this year to try as many new-to-me authors as possible, so when given the opportunity to pick up this book, I jumped on it. It sounded super cute and I've really been enjoying the other books in this series that I've read.

First, I very much enjoyed the writing style. This author also writes as Ronan Marlow, but I haven't read any works under that pen, so I can't say if the style is similar or different. Either way, I enjoyed it.

The premise is adorable. I loved the selkie's world. The story does tackle some heavy topics at times, so be sure to check the trigger warnings. But those scenes are fairly short and infrequent with plenty of sweet and swoon in between.

Milo discovering the human world was so chaotic and hilarious. The scenes of him building his nest were both funny and cute, especially when Rowan would try to reclaim some of his stolen items. I loved how patient Rowan was. He was the ultimate caretaker. Milo was also devoted to Rowan, but had to balance that with his responsibilities to the selkie kingdom.

I could see the elements of Rowan and Milo's characters that were true to canon, but this was also the most departed from canon of the ones I've read in the series (I haven't read them all). There were times where I became frustrated with Milo especially as he didn't seem to really take Rowan's feelings or fears into account and didn't seem remorseful of how much panic he caused when he jumped into action unexpectedly (being vague here because of spoilers). Rowan was incredibly supportive though and quick to respond when Milo or the other selkie needed him.

The worldbuilding was really interesting. I am not sure if the author intends to use this book as a springboard into a new series of their own, but if they do, I will definitely be reading it or any other omegaverse/ mpreg/ shifter romances they put out. If they are half as cute and swoony as this one, I'll love them too.

[Caro]

Did I have to look up what the word selkie referred to? Yes, not from my corner of AO3 readings. But boy, am I glad I did.

Rowan goes out into the ocean during a storm fully intending to let it take him, only to find Milo desperately trying to survive in those same waters. And when Rowan pulls him onto the boat, the goddess gives Milo one word: safe. The fact that Rowan went out there believing there was nothing left for him, only to become someone else's safe place??

From there, Rowan is basically a deeply tired immovable object and Milo is... Milo. He wakes up in Rowan's house and immediately brings his usual level of chaos into this man's very quiet existence. He's curious about absolutely everything, has very little understanding of human behaviour, and is pretty much planning their future together while Rowan is still trying to figure out what exactly has happened to his life.

Also, Rowan reading to Milo?? ADORABLE. Milo discovering that humans can keep stories in books and then getting invested in the romance Rowan is reading to him was such a small moment, but I loved it. Especially because, obviously, Milo manages to find further evidence that he and Rowan are destined to be mates.

I really liked that this one wasn't JUST about the romance either. There's a whole adventure running alongside it that gives Rowan and Milo something bigger to deal with together. We get selkie lore, dangerous creatures, some very questionable decision-making, and chaos. There were definitely some later moments that I desperately want to talk about, but I refuse to be the person who spoils them.

Rowan's transformation from deeply grumpy human fisherman who doesn't think he deserves Milo to goddess-certified selkie-adjacent husband material?? Excellent. I loved watching him slowly find a place in Milo's world without ever having to become someone completely different to do it.

Turns out selkies might need to make their way into my corner of AO3 after all.

[Niko]

This was the *perfect* read during and after an incredibly stressful day.

I loved the dynamic between Milo and Rowan, and the depression rep was so accurate. It made me feel so seen and the fact that I related to it just made my heart clench. At first I was lulled into thinking it would be cute and safe, and then around the 55% mark I kept going ‘my darlings😨’ ’oh my god’ ‘please let nothing bad happen to them’, and the good news is all is well, and everyone is happy including the side characters. I really wasn’t expecting some of the plot twists that came up, especially the ones regarding some side characters. I really love the side characters, especially another selkie and her human mate <3

The character development was really delightful, seeing Rowan and Milo adapt and grow together to each other made me smile so much, if I wasn’t on a plane while reading this, I would’ve giggled and kicked my feet. Their personalities bounce off and complement each other perfectly. Ah, my beloveds. They both take such good care of each other, and are so in love it makes my heart soften and melt into a puddle. Also the plot twist at the end?? Heellooooo??? Obviously I had to go preorder the next book (Obsidian Bones and Stolen Songs) right away!!

There is mpreg in this and brief moments of the pregnant character on page, and it is all so sweet and loving. Both Rowan and Milo’s respective families are so supportive.

This was such a beautiful story and I can’t wait to delve into this universe again in the future <3

I think this book would be suited for anyone that enjoys sweet tender love, grumpy x sunshine, care taking, new beginnings, when people *choose* each other, brat x gives in easily, omegaverse fans (this isn’t an omegaverse but trust me it’s so good!)

[Zoe]

This book was phenomenal and I can’t wait to do a reread of it. Milo as a selkie was everything I never knew I needed but now that I’ve experienced it I will never be the same. This has to be one of my favourite versions of Milo and Rowan because I spent the entire book giggling at all the chaos and rooting for them to get their happily ever after. I loved how stubborn Milo was in this book especially when it came to Rowan. He knew what he wanted and made sure that Rowan had no choice but to accept him. The way he flew into Rowan’s life with all that energy and curiosity of his was just so much fun. I loved seeing Milo learn about the human universe while causing chaos and unintentionally breaking down all of Rowan’s walls. Rowan in this book was also so sweet and lovely. I’m so happy that Milo found him when he did and that he brought Milo into his life because they are perfect together. Milo helped give Rowan purpose while also showing him love and telling him how amazing he is. It made me sad seeing Rowan reluctant to bring Milo back to the water but also insisting on it and I was very glad that Milo went all stubborn and unmovable on him and stayed right where he was. Milo in seal mode was just too adorable for both me and Rowan and I was delighted by Rowan being unable to do anything but to accept that Milo now lived with him.

While a lot of this book was about Milo and Rowan’s adorable antics, there was also another part of the story. I really enjoyed the other part of the plot and seeing more mythical creatures as well as seeing Milo being guided by his goddess to save the day in his own chaotic way. Milo definitely took a few years off Rowan’s life with his rescue mission and seeing Rowan try to go after him was so sad yet sweet because you got the chance to see how important Milo became to Rowan. I am also very happy to say that the good guys do end up winning and there was only one more tiny bump in the road to their happily ever after. This book did such a great job with Rowan and Milo’s characters, they were exactly how I imagine them to be and I had so much fun with the silliness but it also showed how much Rowan and Milo loved one another and the lengths they would go to for each other. Their hard-won happily ever after was absolutely beautiful and getting to see some of Milo’s pregnancy was an unexpected delight! Pregnant Milo is just how you’d expect him to be and I loved it. I’m so sad that this book had to end because it was so amazing but I can’t wait to see what comes next!

Thank you Arlo August for the ARC!

[GiveMeBooksOrGiveMeDeath]

In this AU, Rowan is a fisherman from Greenland. He is depressed and lonely, which has ended up causing him to want to end it all, but before that can happen he inadvertently saves Milo the Selkie. This story hit me hard because I’ve been where Rowan was and I know what it feels like to give up hope of things ever getting better. So if you also feel this way I implore you to please seek help because the world is definitely better with you here even if it doesn’t feel that way right now. When Rowan saved Milo, it gave him something to focus on and care for. Milo became his reason to keep going, and it was a crazy situation, a human and a Selkie living together. But Rowan liked having Milo around, and Milo wanted to be with Rowan and he was quite adamant that he was his mate, though he did not believe him at first. It kind of reminded me of the little mermaid in a way because Milo was so fascinated with human things and liked to collect human stuff. Despite all Milo’s craziness and quirks, Rowan fell for him too. It probably didn’t hurt that he thought Milo was very attractive, and Milo continuously threw himself at him lol. They were such a cute couple and I love how Rowan was very patient with Milo and never yelled at him or belittled him in any way, he was only ever kind to him. Not to mention the sex was Hella hot, and when Milo went into heat they were practically on fire. Which leads to Milo getting pregnant and we get to see Rowan dote on him and care for him and it was just the sweetest. Not everything was happy and fun however, they end up having to go on a rescue mission with the help of some friends and we get a glimpse of what’s to come in the next book. Overall, this was a fantastic story and I loved every minute of it. I hope you do as well. I want to thank the author for letting me read this in advance and I look forward to the next book.

Tropes: Human x Selkie, Depression Rep, Fated Mates, Heat Sex, Mpreg, All The Snacks, Selkies to the Rescue

Story 5/5
Spice 4/5

[Chloe]

Selkie AU: Beyond the Storm by Arlo August

💙 Selkie x Human Fisherman
💙 Grumpy x Sunshine
💙 Only One Nest
💙 Depression Rep
💙 Hurt/Comfort
💙 Touch Starved MC
💙 Omegaverse w/Mpreg
🔥 Rough S*x, Shower S*x, Semi-Public S*x, Fisting, Double Penetration, Dirty Talk, Biting, Inhuman Anatomy

Review:
I really loved the books I've read so far by this author, so when I saw he was writing Omegaverse under a new pen name I knew I had to read it!

Milo & Rowan were such great characters. I loved how opposite they were and how Milo stuck to Rowan from the moment they met, never doubting that he was the man for him. Both the main characters and side characters were really interesting and it was so funny how Milo was constantly stealing things for his nest 😂

I felt that the depression rep in this book was written really well and Rowan's character development was really great to see. It was lovely to see how he softened over the course of the book and became just as consumed by Milo as Milo was by him.

Some of the pacing and plot points didn't fit completely right for me, which is why I landed on a four star rating, however, overall I thought this was a really cute book and one that I would definitely recommend! 😊

Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂.5
Angst: 🥺🥺

First person dual pov 👀

Content Warnings
On page: blood, violence, injury, depression, suicidal thoughts, suicidal ideation, attempted suicide, confinement, boat crash, vomiting, sexual content, pregnancy, alcohol consumption
Mentioned: parent death (past), death, kidnapping, animal captivity, human captivity

[Twilight]

𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑫

𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝑵𝒂𝒎𝒆: Selkie AU: Beyond The Storm

𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔: selkiexhuman, grumpyxsunshine, mpreg, omegeverse, size difference

𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5 ⭐️ | 𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5 🌶️

𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉: 📲 — ARC Read

𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔: “I wasn’t going to survive him. He was the storm I’d decided to lose myself in. As unstoppable and inevitable as a hurricane thrashing at the shell of the person I’d become.
He was more
He was the first rays of sunlight that parted through the storm clouds. He was the rainbow after the rain.”

“I couldn’t exist without him. Not for a single day. Not for a single hour. Not a single minute. He was everything to me. I didn’t care how much danger it would put me in if it gave him even a fraction of a better chance at surviving . If all I could do with my life was ensure he could live his, it would be more purpose than I ever ever dreamed of.”


𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘: Firstly, I want to thank the author for allowing me to ARC read for them. With that being said, all opinions are my own.
This was my first time diving into something that would include m-preg, and man did I enjoy every minute of this story. It’s clear how much I adored it and loved it considering that I completely devoured this book in an entire day. Milo and Rowan’s relationship in this book in the series had me giggling and kicking my feet; while also having to fan myself from some of the spicer scene because my goodness were they hotttttt!! Definitely one of my tops in the series that I have had the pleasure of ARC reading so far.

[That One Romance Reader]

Intro:
This book is an MM romance between Rowan, a fisherman dwelling in a dark place and Milo, a selkie seeking safety from an immediate threat


Tropes/Highlights:
-MM
-Open Door
-Selkie/Human
-Size Difference
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-Opposites Attract
-Mpreg
-Chosen Mates
-Protective/Nurturing
-HEA


Likes:
-Goddess pull
-Pouty selkie
-Milo experiencing human things for the first time
-Captivating first chapter
-Nesting
-Caretaking
-Store trip
-Spice
-Author voice
-World building
-Kova
-Cute seals
-Everything about this book!


Quotes:
-"No, Milo. I can see you thinking about it. No"
-"So, I was getting the silent treatment from a seal in my own living room on a pile of my own stuff that I wasn't allowed to touch"
-"The colony isn't my destiny anymore. You are"
-"I fucked you when I was tired, little hurricane. Now I'm going to show you how I fuck when I'm awake"
-"Days. It had only taken him days to show me how to feel again"
-"I can't live if it isn't with him"
-"I'm right here, my love. I won't leave you"


Rowan Marlow/Arlo August is a master magician with his writing and has quickly become an auto-buy/ auto-read author for me. I am in love with this story and it quickly took it's rightful place as my favorite of the series. I adore Rowan and Milo in this universe and can't get over how cute and utterly devoted they are to each other. Milo is the most adorable, pouty, mischievous little seal and it was so fun watching him turn Rowan's life upside down in a good way. The first chapter was heavy, but watching life seep back into Rowan through Milo was so heartwarming. Rowan is the best mate, with a kind heart and nurturing personality and those two are the perfect match. I highly recommend reading this book, no explanation needed, just read it! But if you love cheeky selkies who love to get their way, cosy nests (don't move anything), home cooked meals, a rescue mission, "it will only ever be you" and fiercely protective mates, then you will love this book!

[Corey]

"Selkie AU: Beyond the Storm" by Ronan Marlow writing as Arlo August ( @authorarloaugust )is a part of the anthology series: "Because Canon Sucks".

It's an MM romance between a selkie (Milo) and a human fisherman (Rowan). They meet in the middle of a storm at sea and end up saving each other, finding love, and taking down evil poachers.

Ratings:
Overall: 5/5 hearts - Honestly, give me a good arctic setting and cuddling by the fire and I'll be a happy girl. But throw in visceral emotions, forced proximity, and MPREG and I can't help but give 5 hearts.

Peppers (Spice Quantity): 3/5 - There's definitely spice, but it's sprinkled in amongst the plot.

Spice Quality: 5/5 - The spice is so stinking good. The scene where Milo goes into heat was incredible (may have had me drooling a little. Don't judge me) and that's just one of several spice scenes.

Plot: 5/5
- Storyline:
The story was great. There were a few different subplots, that all came together beautifully. It also had the perfect mix of angst and fluff, which makes it clear there's going to be a HEA, but never allows it to feel too easy.

I also loved the Arctic world building. There's not just selkies, but polar bears, orcas, sirens, and more. It's so different than the "usual" paranormal shifters and felt super fun and exotic.

- Characters:
Oh the characters. They're so great. Rowan's fight with loneliness and depression really connected with me. He describes it so accurately and with the dispondance you'd expect from someone suffering.

And then there's Milo, the ray of sunshine that sees the world as something beautiful.

I loved reading their unique POVs, watching them mess up, and seeing them grow as individuals and as a couple. *chef's kiss* Perfection.

- Writing:
The writing is smooth and flowy. It conveys emotions in a way that just socks you in the chest and transports you to this beautiful world. I loved it.

*I did receive a free ARC copy of this book, however this review is 100% voluntary and reflects my honest opinion.*