Rory has survived the apocalypse for two years. He has outrun monsters and humans alike, and while it’s been lonely, he’s doing fine. Until he meets Inkiri.
Horned, blue, and handsome, Inkiri isn’t like the other monsters who try to eat Rory. He’s nice, has a group of friends, and offers Rory more than just shelter.
Rory is determined to enjoy what comforts he can find in these changed times, but he’s soon drawn into a conflict he didn’t even know existed and must grapple with the reality of magic and the dangers it brings.
Horns & Heart is an MM monster romance with humor, fated mates, size difference, and lots of banter.
Alexa Piper writes steamy romance that ranges from light to dark, from straight to queer. She’s also a coffee addict. Alexa loves writing stories that make her readers laugh and fall in love with the characters in them. For updates, join her newsletter: https://subscribepage.io/ksHV9g Or become a member of her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/25502...
I'll be perfectly honest, post apocalyptic monster smut is totally my jam. However, the fact this one wasn't in KU, it was a relatively new to me author, and the book was expensive in Australia were the main reasons I took on ARC.
Having said that, and now having read the book, I would pay the price for the book. It was that good.
It was definitely post apocalyptic with some serious moments, but for the most part it was light, with humour and a fair amount of heat.
As for the cliffhanger you've no doubt head about, it wasn't that bad. it's not at a life or death moment. it was more of " you can't leave it there!" or" I don't want to leave yet" or "more, more, more!" type of cliffy. Honestly, no matter where this story ended it would feel like a cliff hanger as the story just keeps rolling with new reveals at every turn.
To be fair, I have yet to not enjoy a book by Alexa, so I was not surprised that I enjoyed this as much as I did. This was quite different though from other Alexa books, in some ways at least, whilst still having all the things I've come to adore the books for. The post-apocalyptic world we find Rory in is fascinating and kind of disturbing in the way you can imagine yourself in it (also, of course social media would survive the apocalypse). I loved the set-up of how Rory (and the world) got to where they are. It's both fantastical and, at least so far, simple enough that it doesn't feel overwhelming like some apocalyptic plots are. I also really love the way 'monsters' are dealt with in this. The fact that there are beasts (dangerous predators that don't have higher reasoning skills), the 'monsters' that are Inkiri and his friends from Aer, and the true monsters who are evil because they can be. Maybe I'm making more of it than there is, but it felt meaningful especially in the world we live in. Inkiri and his friends/colleagues/family are amazing. They're such a fun group of people and the way they're trying learn more about human culture (all while Vergis not so silently judges) is hilarious and sweet. I will say, I was completely there for Vergis telling Rory off about pronouncing things properly. It's a pet peeve when people don't even try to engage with other cultures and I love that Vergis called him on it. Rory's internal monologue is also hilarious. He comes across as kind of incompetent initially (I did wonder at first how on earth he actually managed to survive two years) but as we got to know him it seemed more like a trauma response; almost like he removed himself from what was happening by acting as if he wasn't capable even as he did what he needed to survive. The romance between Inki and Rory is sweet and I'm looking forward to seeing more develop between them and hopefully seeing the other Bagu find their special someones. There is a cliffhanger but as someone who hates cliffhangers it's really not a bad one. The romance is solidly developed by the end of the book so there's no cliffhanger in terms of that; it's just related to the background plot which had started to heat up towards the end of the book. I will say, there was a moment where I was absolutely gutted but it was the kind of emotional rollercoaster I love (intense awful moment followed almost immediately by things being okay lol). I can't wait for the next book and what comes next!
Post-apocolyptic fun, fast-paced, hilariously cute MM romance. I had the biggest smile on my face and best time reading this book. It had me laughing out loud, and these characters had my heart from the start with their adorable antics. Monster romance is not generally my go-to genre, but I was looking for something different and fun, and this was so much better than I could have anticipated. I'm just sad I have to wait for the second book because I'm so hooked. Rory and Inkiri are amazing characters, as are all the side characters. I hope they all get their individual stories. Rory is a hot/cute ball chaotic mess, and he's just so endearing you can't help but instantly love him. Inkiri is just the most precious gentle sexiest blue giant. The banter and cultural differences had me dead from laughter. Who would have known a blue horned monster with unique anatomy would be something I'd be interested in reading about? I love the found family that Rory finds himself within these fun-loving monsters. This was absolutely such a fantastic time, and I'm so eager for book 2!
Tropes: Paranormal Found Family Size difference Fated Mates Monster anatomy Single 1st person POV
Thank you, GRR and Alexa Piper, for the opportunity to read this book.
I loved this! The author has created a fascinating world with two realms overlapping each other. Poor Rory is convinced the apocalypse is all his fault, but there is so much more going on than he or anyone else realizes. I loved Inkiri and his brothers! It doesn’t take long for them to adopt Rory.
Whatever I thought this book was going to be like, it turned out to be 100x better! The first book in the Monster Apocalypse series, Horns & Heart is a phenomenally wild ride - think the apocalypse and monsters from another realm of Lily Mayne's Monstrous series with the sassy banter and snarky characters of Alice Winters - and you have a story that I literally could not put down! Devoured it in one sitting. Rory, the young human MC, is absolutely adorable and chaotically a mess, and I could completely relate to him. I mean, imagine thinking that you accidentally set off a worldwide apocalypse simply because you were feeling sorry for yourself - being single on Valentine's Day and surrounded by mushy lovers - so much so that you kind of wish they would just all disappear, only they actually do, then you have to deal with the dredges of humanity that are left (yeah, we kind of suck) and newly appeared "monsters" that think human is synonymous with "snack" and finally end up rescued by a whole different class of "monster" - tall, blue and horned - who declares you are their mate and takes you back to their temporary residence and introduces you to their group of golden retriever energy monster buddies! I'm pretty sure I'd have whiplash too from everything and yet, Rory somehow manages to stumble through these situations with all the grace of a drunk frat boy and ends up with a hot monster boyfriend, a whole family of characters with no modesty or verbal filters, and the tentative realization that he didn't "purposely" cause the apocalypse but his magical essence might have been used by nefarious characters who were responsible. Uhmm ... Did you say" magic"?! 😳 All-in-all, this book is funny and addictive and I can not wait for more. It ends on a HFN and is left to perfectly segue into the next book. I highly recommend this and I give it all the*** Just fantastic!
This reads like a debut. As it's a rerelease it could well *be* a debut, but I don't have the energy to try and find out. Anyway, I will treat it as such.
This was an interesting attempt. The worldbuilding was deliberately negligible, they are in a post-apocalyptic scenario but still have access to some mod cons, power, mobile phones, Instagram etc. With no explanation of how these services are maintained, but at least the author is aware of how ridiculous it is. The silliness started off as charming but became grating after a while. The plot was almost as thin as the setup and dragged horribly, again with no real reasoning, or nothing that made sense to me. Just very vague info that didn't seem to be thought out. (I used to read high fantasy almost exclusively so I'm used to complex and interesting magic systems. This was not either.)
The MC read as very young and quite childlike. That was cute to start off with but rapidly became concerning, as this is a monsterfudging romance with on page spice. I'm not comfortable with an MC saying his penis popped like a balloon when he comes. I honestly have no idea how this kid is still alive, he seems to have the mental age of a ten year old and the selfishness of a toddler. He doesn't even make the effort to say the words in his mate's language properly, and consistently misuses them. Maybe this is meant to be cute but it comes off as either rude or childish, or both. And if he's really so dumb he can't say words properly, even after being gently corrected several times by the ever-patient Ink, he's probably not capable of giving informed consent either, despite his calculated decision to trade sex for safety and protection. Definitely needs to grow up a lot before I could take him seriously as a romance MC.
**I was provided an electronic ARC via Gay Romance Reviews.**
Alexa Piper republishes Ash & Stone as Horns & Heart with the reversion of rights to her along with editing and extending of the work. After a monster apocalypse, Rory is simply doing his best to survive against the odds. When he is rescued by a big, blue monster, he is unsure of his new circumstances, but Inkiri proclaims Rory to be his intended mate. Surrounded by Inkiri's chosen family, Rory must adjust to living with the good sort of monsters and newfound magic.
The strongest feature of this work is the world-building surrounding the bagua monster race that Inkiri is part of. Despite the short time spent on cultural comparisons, there is so much room for expansion of the introduced concepts and exploration of the found family characters that surround Inkiri and Rory.
However, Rory is an incredibly naive and inexperienced character that, despite surviving on his own in the apocalypse for two years, is startlingly incapable on his own. This could easily be a sticking point for readers who do not appreciate this in a main character (like myself). Even with my baseline irritation with Rory, I was fascinated enough with Inkiri and his people to set aside my annoyance and honestly enjoy the book.
I would recommend this to readers who want a lighthearted take on a monster apocalypse romance story, particularly ones who found Lily Mayne's Monstrous series a bit too dark but were fond of the humor involved in the Goliaths of Wrestling series.
This was a fun mix of post-apocalyptic survival and light, almost rom-com energy, which isn’t something you see that often in this kind of setting. Rory’s voice really drives that tone in that he’s chaotic, a bit reckless, and his lack of filter adds a lot of humour, even when things should feel bleak.
Inkiri was an interesting contrast. His instant attachment to Rory leans heavily into the fated mates trope, and while it’s quick, it fits the world and his character. The dynamic between them is sweet, with that classic “dangerous world, soft relationship” feel running through it.
The found family aspect was probably one of the stronger elements. Inkiri’s group adds warmth and hints at something bigger, especially with the suggestion of expanding relationships later on. Rory’s developing abilities and connection to the wider conflict were intriguing too, even if the details around the magic system and species tensions felt a bit under-explained at times.
Overall, it’s an easy, entertaining read with a unique tone with more cosy chaos than dark apocalypse though yet with enough threads left open to make you curious about whats next! I think this is definately going to be a re read once all the books are out so i dont miss anything! I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
- post apocalypse - fated mates - Virgin MC - found family
Well this was utterly bonkers in the best way. I've finished but I'm still not sure what I've really read 😂. It would likely be 5 stars but it ends on a heck of a cliffhanger and I just want the next instalment now 😂
Rory thinks he caused the apocalypse 2 years ago and has been running ever since. Inkiri and his group of friends - family really - came to this world as Inkiri was feeling the call to his mate - Rory. I liked Rory and most of the family and there are some hilarious moments where the otherworld group- I hesitate to call them monsters, because they aren't that at all - try to get to grips with human anatomy and gender. I felt for Rory being on the run for so long, and being unable to relax, and I was happy for him finding that peace of sorts with Inkiri and his friends.
The story is far from told though, because Rory is definitely something, even if he's not the cause of the apocalypse, and the story ends before we find out what. There's a kind of HFN though, and a moment of respite but it just leaves you wanting more. I can't wait for part 2.
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
I do not usually read any type of post-apocalypse books, due to the fact that they have a heavy tone and depressing undercurrent. That being said, I cannot stress enough how much I loved Horns & Heart by Alexa Piper. This story balances out the sadness of a post apocalypse world with humor, kindness, and love. This is the first book in the series and I am very much looking forward to the next. Rory, has been alone in the world since he accidentally caused the apocalypse two years prior on vacation in Ireland. He spends his days hiding from man-eating monsters that now inhabit the planet and escaping doomsday cults. His luck takes a turn when he is rescued by a blue-skinned horned monster, who speaks English and takes him to safety. Inkiri, also happens to think Rory is his human mate. Rory is now in a house with a family of friendly human-like monsters who want to protect him and one loves him. Rory needs to decide if this is a future he is ready for. I love Inkiri and his family. The personalities of each character are unique and bring something different to the story. While Inkiri definitely falls first, it is amusing to see how Rory reacts to being courted by a monster rather than having one try to eat him.
**3.5** This is a hard review to write because it took me a long time to get into the story. To start with Rory is dead against going with Inkiri, but then discovers that Inkiri believes they are mates. It's then a question of staying for protection from the other monsters that are now on earth after the apocalypse that happened two years ago, one that Rory believes he caused. Or, the more time that he spends with Inkiri and his group, the more he comes to like and feel like he matters. All of this happens within about a day, and so it didn't really feel right as I was reading it. However, as things progress and the group look to figure out what happened to Rory the day of the apocalypse, as well as some other questions they have about the young man, the more interesting it becomes. The different members of their group have quite the range of personalities - friendly, welcoming, questioning, openly hostile - which always works well when you go on a quest. There is soon danger and tension but there is also the building of bonds, both friendship and mate, which helps to bring the group together. With how the book was left, I am definitely interested in reading more as I need to know what happens with everyone else, and who or what brought on the apocalypse. I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I’ve read most of Alexa Piper’s work and they’re all 4 and 5 star reads for me. When I heard she was redoing this series, I held off on reading the old versions. I have to say the wait was worth it!
The relationship between Rory and Ink starts off somewhat as convenience for Rory, as he no longer has to fear getting eaten. But he quickly melts in the face of devotion, and his feelings seemed genuine by the end. I love a smaller lover getting carried around. Plus the spicy scenes were fabulous!
The family dynamics for this pack of monsters was unique, and Rory’s reaction to learning about their culture were funny. I hope we get to see more of their world in the future.
I wish we had gotten to see a bit more of the post-apocalyptic world. It didn’t fully make sense to me, how in one part of the world people are being eaten by monsters, but he receives a text from his aunt casually making mixed drinks in another country. Why is no one mounting a rescue and just continuing on as normal? I’d think at least one military would be involved. Or we’d see other humans. Maybe the scope and circumstances are better explained in the next book. Which I will be reading!
This is book one in the author’s two book series, Monster Apocalypse, and features Rory, a hilariously funny little human who was entirely too certain he was the cause of the apocalypse and Inkiri, a big, blue, horned monster with surprisingly cat-like feet and who was, along with his fellow monsters, so wonderfully literal.
This was an amazing book! I laughed so many times at Rory, especially, with as awkward as he was but the monsters did their part to have me giggling as well which, everything combined, had me not wanting to put the book down. There was a fair bit of drama near the end that did its part in having me positively feenin’ for the final book but, thankfully it’ll come out in a week and a half so hopefully I can survive waiting that long.
If it’s true what they say about laughter being the best medicine then I should be perfectly healthy for a long time to come; if you’re in need of a little inoculation yourself, look no further ‘cause it’s already here. Grab this one today and then grab book two in the next week or two. 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was a promising start with some funny moments and an interesting mystery, plus I like the concept of a magical apocalypse. However, I really really can’t get into a romance where it’s made clear that one character is a prisoner, especially if there’s never a point where the captor offers to let him go before anything romantic/sexual happens. Inkiri and the others are mostly nice and they spoil Rory, as well as reassuring him that there’s nothing to fear, but they also refuse to let him leave despite multiple attempts. The first time Rory and Inkiri have sex it’s because Rory is hoping it will give him an excuse to reject Inkiri as a mate in a way that Inkiri and his friends will actually accept, and the fact that he ends up enjoying himself and just kind of forgetting that he wanted to leave was extremely annoying. The whole thing just left a bad taste in my mouth because even though the author clearly intended for the relationship to be consensual, holding someone against their will puts things in a very grey area no matter how well you treat them.
I enjoyed this story when it first came out and was excited to see it being reworked and republished. The world as Rory new it has changed in an instant. Now he is trying to survive in a world full of monsters. When one of those monsters comes to his aid Rory does not know what to do. Not only does Inkiri save Rory’s life he is also kind and nothing like what Rory is used to in this new world. The author has created an interesting world full of engaging characters. I enjoyed Rory and Inkiri find their way towards happiness. The two are good together and it was nice to see Rory start to grow with the Inkiri’s support. As the two work on figuring out how they fit together Rory must find out how he fits into what has happened to the world. Along with Rory and Inkiri we also get to meet some strong supporting characters that brought a lot to the story. This book is a nice mix of adventure and humor with romance intertwined. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the way they try to understand humans and I am eager to see what Rory and his new friends find.
How Rory had survived as long as he did is so beyond my imagination. He was innocence, wrapped in naivety, walking through a war zone! If Inkiri hadn't found him when he did, he would have been a monster snack!
I'm not even sure how to describe the story overall: A fabulously unique and diverse cast A bit of a mystery Lots of humor Some angsty notes Banter Action Steamy smexy moments
The cast was a diverse mix of strong personalities; they should have clashed, but somehow it worked. I enjoyed how the author created a solid team: the inventor, the warrior, the bookworm, etc. A perfect recipe
The world-building was unique. How the "incident" happened and the mixed results There's a feel of suspense to the read. Evil villains with gleefully dark plots, ready to pounce with the turn of the page
This ends on a bit of a “ come on, no way” moment. Overall, a fun, at times sappy, a little suspenseful, and definitely intriguing story. I originally received an ARC but ended up grabbing it in Kobo Plus.
Horns & Heart takes place in an apocalyptic Ireland, where our protagonist Rory is trying to survive while surrounded by monsters from another world. Suddenly, he is saved by another tall, handsome monster who takes him to his safe house to care for him.
Honestly, I think the authors writing style just wasn't for me. I personally thought they made the main character and all of the "monsters" seem childish.
The story felt very rushed even though it took place within a couple of days. The main couple fell in love very quickly and it felt like a lot of space was made specially for the sex scenes.
With more revisions, I could really see myself liking this story. I liked the thought of a different world just a veil away from our own, with its own people and society, but instead of a slow and structured introduction of culture, it was introduced through jokes and uncomfortable moments.
Again, this book just might not be for me. It wasn't the worst book I've ever read and I do believe it has potential, it's just a lot.
Lily Mayne has captured my entire heart when it comes to post-apocalyptic monster romance, so I was hesitant but ready since I've really liked Piper's style. Thankfully, not at all disappointed. This is funny without being ridiculous, engaging, and insta-love-y but without being wildly unbelievable.
We meet Rory, who is a mess, as he is in the middle of being a mess. We meet Ink, who is not a mess and is a monster, as he saves Rory. There are mate things, magic things, a cast of lovely monster characters, and some definite beginnings of worldbuilding happening. It does end on a cliffhanger--it's not meant to stand alone, not even with a HFN, so be sure to brace yourself for this being a trilogy.
Because it's really only Rory and the monsters (a title Vergis would *not* appreciate), we're told by Rory about all other humans. That gets a little weighted simply because it's blocks of nostalgic--or less-than-such--memory rather than in-scene connection. But I'm definitely here for this pairing, this family, and the secrets yet to unfold. Happily on to book two.
Rory somewhat caused an apocalypse, and he was rescued by the monster, Inkiri who declared him as his mate.
I have been around the monster romance girlies community to know that this book is a staple read for anyone in that circle. However, it's not on KU but on Kobo Plus so I took this opportunity to finally read the book.
Ngl, I was confused for most of the time reading this book and I am just here for the vibes.
Don't get me wrong, it was entertaining and fun and quirky but maybe not for me? I got such mixed feelings about this but I think maybe the writing and the story were sometimes clunky. But hey, this was the first book of the series so there's a lot of information dumping, cultural differences and world building.
I did love Rory, he's sassy and bratty and very fun to follow. Inkiri came with his own band of friends that turned into family, and though we didn't know much about them, they were still protective over Inki's human mate.
“Oh yeah. I’ve been wanting a boyfriend for a long time. Ever since…since third grade! They made me be a tree. I wanted to hold hands with Eli Jamisson. Now I have a blue monster boyfriend.” I glanced up at him. It really was pretty dark, despite the reading light. His horns, the shape of his face and ears, it all stuck out so much in this play of shadows. He was so warm and muscular and…hot.’
Alexa Piper has a vivid and romantic writing knowledge, even as her characters are not your average humans. Except Rory. Beautiful, naive, and hungry for love.
Inkiri has crossed dimensions and found his perfect mate, but his traveling group of warriors has mixed reactions to his newfound love.
Living in book 1 of the Monster Apocalypse series is quite dangerous, but it is also charming and funny and sweet.
“Oh yeah. I’ve been wanting a boyfriend for a long time. Ever since…since third grade! They made me be a tree. I wanted to hold hands with Eli Jamisson. Now I have a blue monster boyfriend.” I glanced up at him. It really was pretty dark, despite the reading light. His horns, the shape of his face and ears, it all stuck out so much in this play of shadows. He was so warm and muscular and…hot.’
Alexa Piper has a vivid and romantic writing knowledge, even as her characters are not your average humans. Except Rory. Beautiful, naive, and hungry for love.
Inkiri has crossed dimensions and found his perfect mate, but his traveling group of warriors has mixed reactions to his newfound love.
Living in book 1 of the Monster Apocalypse series is quite dangerous, but it is also charming and funny and sweet
This was an apocalyptic monster romance between human Rory and monster Inkiri. It had mate bonds, forced proximity, size difference, and a Rom-Com feel - especially with Rory being accident prone and his awkward conversations / lack of filter. It's Insta-Love from inkiri's side, and there are hints of a potential why choose bond with his other monster friends. I liked the found family feel and Rory's mysterious powers, but the magic and species conflicts were a bit confusing. It had a similar atmosphere to 'Soul Eater' with the wasteland survival / monster attacks, and unexpected mate bonds, I just didn't connect with these characters as well. I am intrigued by how Rory will progress with the other guys, his magical abilities & his connection to how the apocalypse started.
Quick read about the monster apocalypse. Rory's been running from monsters for 2 years - somehow he thinks he allowed the monsters into the world. Just as he's about to get eaten by one, a different type of monster rescues him. Inkiri introduces him to his family, and they all work together to try to figure out how this whole thing started.
It's definitely a cliffhanger, but not for the romance. Plenty of human/monster spice, plenty of found family. Rory has some sort of magical powers, but I'm confused as to what they actually are (I don't think the group really understands either).
Things are not quite as clear as they could be - maybe it's because the book isn't very long. There were a number of things I was confused about, but still, the story was a cute romance.
It's two years after an unexplainable apocalypse and Rory is an American who was on vacation in Ireland when it happened. Monsters have crossed the veil onto Earth and a big, blue, huminoid monster with big horns named Inkiri saves him. Inkiri claims he's his mate and once Rory gets over his fear of being eaten, the monster and his family grow on him. This is the beginning of their story. It's adventurous, enjoyably funny and fantastical. Inkiri is the sweetest mate who will do anything for Rory. Rory is fearful but finally recognizes safety and love. It ends on a minor cliffhanger and I eagerly await the next book. I became hooked on this pair. I received a copy of this through GRR and this is my voluntary opinion.
A great start to this new series by Alexa Piper. The building of the post-apocalypse world is particularly well done, showing both how the world got the way it is and the various beings that inhabit it without getting bogged down in needless detail. I knew exactly what I needed to know when I needed to know it. I loved Inki, Rory and all of those around them. A supportive group who also demand respect for their differences. There are some dangerous folks around and the background plot is rolling along nicely. I can't wait to see where things go in the next book. The relationship between Inki and Rory still has places to go, but it's clear they belong together and I'm not worried about them for the next book.
I loved this book. Apocalypse paranormal romances always draw me in and this one was so much fun. The story pulled me in from the start. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Inkiri and Rory. I really liked Rory's personality and perspective. And I absolutely loved Inkiri. His way of thinking in some of their conversations was hilarious- but actually logical and perceptive, based off of observations and having asked questions. I found it adorable actually. He was really sweet and these two were so cute together. I loved Inkiri's found family of other monsters, and liked all their different personalities. I would love to read a book just on the shenanigans they could get up to. I can't wait to read the next book, and I wish this were in audio so bad! 5 stars
It was an exciting and unusual read. Initially, I felt a bit confused, but I gained a better understanding by the end. The book ends on a cliffhanger, but it’s not particularly frustrating. It’s more like “I must read the next book” type of cliffhanger. I couldn’t resist and immediately went to the author’s website to purchase book two. It’s scheduled to release on May 8th, so I don’t have to wait too long. The book picked up significantly towards the end, and I was sad to see it come to an end. I have so many questions that I can’t wait to find the answers to! This is my honest and unbiased review. I received an ARC copy of this book from GRR.
Theirs was not a meet cute at all. Rory feared that he was about to get eaten when Inkiri showed up and literally saved the day and his life. But Rory was wary of the uncertainties of the apocalypse and he was trying to get away from Inkiri when Inkiri was seeing them becoming something more. He took Rory to meet his guys. Inkiri and his crew work alongside Rory to figure out what is going on. And by the way, it turns out that Inkiri and crew came to earth to find his mate who has been calling to him. It turns out that Rory has found his man. Which is ironic as he thought all lovers were gone. This was a fun story to read. I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.