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Monsters Need Mates, Too #1
Something Worth Keeping
Introducing the first ever whimsical slightly-gray but still a bit fluffy romance book by Lisa Oliver.
“Suspended pending a review of attitude and workplace conduct.”
Julian Purdy, archivist, knew his eidetic memory would get him into trouble eventually. But after being suspended from his job, his trip home was interrupted by a being who shouldn't exist. The corpse the being was holding was irrelevant, it was the creature who fascinated him. And maybe the fates were watching him, because now Julian had the time to research what this creature actually was.
“I remove problems...I have done so for a very long time.”
Cillian, Eldritch guardian, feeds on evil souls, and there were a lot of them in Madison. When his feeding one night was interrupted by a slight man with an interesting personality, Cillian finally had another purpose - find out everything he could about the man who called to his soul... and shadows. He only hoped he could do it without causing Julian to run away.
“This has to be a lavish courtship gift,” Julian said aloud. “You brought me a courtship gift.”
Neither Cillian nor Julian were used to courting or relationships, but they are both invested enough to keep trying. However, evil lurks in Madison, and Marcus Vane is the most evil of all. When he sets his sights on Julian, Cillian and his brothers pour all their attention into taking him down. But it seems Julian isn't the only one reading ancient books, and when the confrontation comes, it could spell the end not only for Julian and Cillian, but for the Eldritch guardians completely.
Please note this is a darker romance book than I typically write with on-page graphic violence. There is also shadows that like to get into interesting places, a succulent called Gerald, and two misfits who don't fit anywhere else, but do fit with each other. HEA guaranteed.
“Suspended pending a review of attitude and workplace conduct.”
Julian Purdy, archivist, knew his eidetic memory would get him into trouble eventually. But after being suspended from his job, his trip home was interrupted by a being who shouldn't exist. The corpse the being was holding was irrelevant, it was the creature who fascinated him. And maybe the fates were watching him, because now Julian had the time to research what this creature actually was.
“I remove problems...I have done so for a very long time.”
Cillian, Eldritch guardian, feeds on evil souls, and there were a lot of them in Madison. When his feeding one night was interrupted by a slight man with an interesting personality, Cillian finally had another purpose - find out everything he could about the man who called to his soul... and shadows. He only hoped he could do it without causing Julian to run away.
“This has to be a lavish courtship gift,” Julian said aloud. “You brought me a courtship gift.”
Neither Cillian nor Julian were used to courting or relationships, but they are both invested enough to keep trying. However, evil lurks in Madison, and Marcus Vane is the most evil of all. When he sets his sights on Julian, Cillian and his brothers pour all their attention into taking him down. But it seems Julian isn't the only one reading ancient books, and when the confrontation comes, it could spell the end not only for Julian and Cillian, but for the Eldritch guardians completely.
Please note this is a darker romance book than I typically write with on-page graphic violence. There is also shadows that like to get into interesting places, a succulent called Gerald, and two misfits who don't fit anywhere else, but do fit with each other. HEA guaranteed.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2026
About the author
Lisa Oliver
187 books960 followersLisa Oliver had been writing non-fiction books for years when visions of half dressed, buff men started invading her dreams. Unable to resist the lure of her stories, Lisa decided to switch to fiction books, and now stories about her men clamor to get out from under her fingertips.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 21, 2026
A definite must-read!
Wow, this story hooks you right from the start. Loved Cillian and Julian's story, and the "meet-cute" ... so sweet, in a slightly disturbing way. This story is definitely outside of Lisa Oliver's stories, but I'm hooked. Can’t wait to read Rook's story.
Wow, this story hooks you right from the start. Loved Cillian and Julian's story, and the "meet-cute" ... so sweet, in a slightly disturbing way. This story is definitely outside of Lisa Oliver's stories, but I'm hooked. Can’t wait to read Rook's story.
April 21, 2026
I loved it!
Yes, it is darker than your previous series, however it was still compelling and very enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the next one, I hope it’s not too long before its release date!
{{{{Hugs & chocolate}}}}
Yes, it is darker than your previous series, however it was still compelling and very enjoyable. I’m looking forward to the next one, I hope it’s not too long before its release date!
{{{{Hugs & chocolate}}}}
April 20, 2026
Marvellous Monsters
I thoroughly enjoyed this foray into the morally gray romance. It was the perfect blend fluff, humour & a touch of darkness. Can't wait for the next book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this foray into the morally gray romance. It was the perfect blend fluff, humour & a touch of darkness. Can't wait for the next book.
April 21, 2026
Julian and Cillian 💚
LOVED it. Julian was so cute when he got literal about everything. I can’t wait for Rook’s book. Hope it’ll be out soon. 🥰
LOVED it. Julian was so cute when he got literal about everything. I can’t wait for Rook’s book. Hope it’ll be out soon. 🥰
April 23, 2026
Great start to a new series. Interesting cast of main and secondary characters. Loved how Julian’s mind works.
April 24, 2026
Great Book!
Not your typical Lisa Oliver book but I loved it anyway. Had me on the edge of my seat area times. Loved every moment I spent reading it. Can't wait for the next book in the series to come out.
Not your typical Lisa Oliver book but I loved it anyway. Had me on the edge of my seat area times. Loved every moment I spent reading it. Can't wait for the next book in the series to come out.
April 22, 2026
Not quite your usual Lisa Oliver----but I loved it :)
Lisa Oliver is an immediate 'must buy' for me.....not a KU as I want to be able to re-read as often as I like.
She does warn that this is a bit darker than her usual and indeed it is, but it does NOT have graphic scenes of torture / humiliation /bondage etc of her MC, just one of her MC (Cillian) 'losing the plot'.
The book has all the elements of the author's trademark styles---adorable MC, humour, meet-cute, HEA, wonderful plot line, engaging dialogue, secondary characters who *need* their own story ---need I go on with the list?
I'm not going to write a precis of the plot as the online blurb does than more than adequately, but suffice it to say that Julian and Cillian fit nicely into Lisa's pantheon of protagonists
I can't wait to read Rook and Ethan's story....please let the wait be short!Lisa Oliver
Lisa Oliver is an immediate 'must buy' for me.....not a KU as I want to be able to re-read as often as I like.
She does warn that this is a bit darker than her usual and indeed it is, but it does NOT have graphic scenes of torture / humiliation /bondage etc of her MC, just one of her MC (Cillian) 'losing the plot'.
The book has all the elements of the author's trademark styles---adorable MC, humour, meet-cute, HEA, wonderful plot line, engaging dialogue, secondary characters who *need* their own story ---need I go on with the list?
I'm not going to write a precis of the plot as the online blurb does than more than adequately, but suffice it to say that Julian and Cillian fit nicely into Lisa's pantheon of protagonists
I can't wait to read Rook and Ethan's story....please let the wait be short!Lisa Oliver
April 27, 2026
This first installment marks a tonal shift into darker territory while still keeping the author’s signature warmth, resulting in a story that feels both whimsical and unsettling in equal measure.
At the center are two characters who exist slightly outside the norm of their respective worlds. Julian Purdy, with his eidetic memory and socially offbeat personality, is grounded in curiosity and logic, even when faced with something that defies both. His reaction to encountering an eldritch being holding a corpse isn’t fear, but fascination, which immediately establishes the story’s unique tone: horror elements filtered through intellectual intrigue and dry humor.
Cillian, on the other hand, is introduced as something ancient and morally ambiguous, an “eldritch guardian” who feeds on evil souls. While his function aligns loosely with justice, his methods and nature remain otherworldly and unsettling. What makes his character compelling is the shift from singular purpose (removing “problems”) to curiosity and attachment. Julian becomes a disruption in his existence, not through force, but through quiet intrigue.
The romance between them is built on awkwardness and discovery rather than instant chemistry. Neither character understands traditional courtship, which leads to moments that are both humorous and oddly endearing—particularly as Cillian attempts to interpret human behavior through a non-human lens. Julian’s framing of these efforts as “courtship gifts” highlights the gap between their worlds while also bridging it.
The supporting elements add to the story’s distinctiveness. The presence of eldritch guardians, lurking evil in Madison, and an overarching antagonist in Marcus Vane provide narrative structure and stakes, while smaller details—like sentient shadows and the oddly memorable succulent Gerald—inject levity and eccentric charm into an otherwise dark setting.
Thematically, the story explores belonging and connection between beings who don’t quite fit anywhere else. Both Julian and Cillian exist on the fringes—one socially, the other existentially—and their relationship becomes a space where those differences are not only accepted but valued.
The darker elements, including graphic violence and the nature of Cillian’s existence, ensure that the story doesn’t drift too far into lighthearted fantasy. Instead, it maintains a balance between danger and tenderness, where affection grows in spite of—and sometimes because of—the surrounding darkness.
Overall, this is a quirky yet dark paranormal romance that combines eldritch horror, gentle humor, and an unconventional love story. It’s a narrative about curiosity turning into connection, and about two misfits finding something that feels like home in each other—even when one of them exists beyond the boundaries of humanity.
At the center are two characters who exist slightly outside the norm of their respective worlds. Julian Purdy, with his eidetic memory and socially offbeat personality, is grounded in curiosity and logic, even when faced with something that defies both. His reaction to encountering an eldritch being holding a corpse isn’t fear, but fascination, which immediately establishes the story’s unique tone: horror elements filtered through intellectual intrigue and dry humor.
Cillian, on the other hand, is introduced as something ancient and morally ambiguous, an “eldritch guardian” who feeds on evil souls. While his function aligns loosely with justice, his methods and nature remain otherworldly and unsettling. What makes his character compelling is the shift from singular purpose (removing “problems”) to curiosity and attachment. Julian becomes a disruption in his existence, not through force, but through quiet intrigue.
The romance between them is built on awkwardness and discovery rather than instant chemistry. Neither character understands traditional courtship, which leads to moments that are both humorous and oddly endearing—particularly as Cillian attempts to interpret human behavior through a non-human lens. Julian’s framing of these efforts as “courtship gifts” highlights the gap between their worlds while also bridging it.
The supporting elements add to the story’s distinctiveness. The presence of eldritch guardians, lurking evil in Madison, and an overarching antagonist in Marcus Vane provide narrative structure and stakes, while smaller details—like sentient shadows and the oddly memorable succulent Gerald—inject levity and eccentric charm into an otherwise dark setting.
Thematically, the story explores belonging and connection between beings who don’t quite fit anywhere else. Both Julian and Cillian exist on the fringes—one socially, the other existentially—and their relationship becomes a space where those differences are not only accepted but valued.
The darker elements, including graphic violence and the nature of Cillian’s existence, ensure that the story doesn’t drift too far into lighthearted fantasy. Instead, it maintains a balance between danger and tenderness, where affection grows in spite of—and sometimes because of—the surrounding darkness.
Overall, this is a quirky yet dark paranormal romance that combines eldritch horror, gentle humor, and an unconventional love story. It’s a narrative about curiosity turning into connection, and about two misfits finding something that feels like home in each other—even when one of them exists beyond the boundaries of humanity.
April 23, 2026
Amazing new book
I adore Cillian and Julian!!! This is chock full of everything I love about this author’s books - fates mates, lots of love, shenanigans, found family, acceptance of who you really are. Cillian may be an Eldritch guardian and have a voice that can dissolve into unreal harmonics as well is as shadows that have a mind of their own, but he is still worthy of finding his beacon. The whole idea of Cillian and his brothers is worth a read. Julian sees Cillian and vice versa. Amazing book and I can wait for Rook’s book.
I adore Cillian and Julian!!! This is chock full of everything I love about this author’s books - fates mates, lots of love, shenanigans, found family, acceptance of who you really are. Cillian may be an Eldritch guardian and have a voice that can dissolve into unreal harmonics as well is as shadows that have a mind of their own, but he is still worthy of finding his beacon. The whole idea of Cillian and his brothers is worth a read. Julian sees Cillian and vice versa. Amazing book and I can wait for Rook’s book.
April 23, 2026
3.25⭐️
I think Lisa Oliver has become an author I have read the most books of. At least in the genre of MM. I quite like her books as they are mostly low angst but still have some plot point that keeps me hooked and they usually have an over arching plot too. This book is the start of a new series and it shows. I just was not as invested in this couple as I usually am by their other couples but I am intrigued by the world being built here. I actually liked the banter between the next couple in the series than the one here and I am looking forward to reading more.
I think Lisa Oliver has become an author I have read the most books of. At least in the genre of MM. I quite like her books as they are mostly low angst but still have some plot point that keeps me hooked and they usually have an over arching plot too. This book is the start of a new series and it shows. I just was not as invested in this couple as I usually am by their other couples but I am intrigued by the world being built here. I actually liked the banter between the next couple in the series than the one here and I am looking forward to reading more.
April 23, 2026
I loved this book. Julian has jumped right up into my favorite 5 MCs. I loved his sassiness and the way he spoke. One evening on his way home after getting suspended, he passes an alley and see a killer disposing of a body. He very kindly offers advice as to the best way to do it and the timings so waste is collected. The eldritch, Cillian is bemused by Julian but does start to stalk him ( to keep him safe) and over time the 2 develop a relationship.
An enjoyable read and I looked the epilogue which sees a friend of Cillian meets his mate, Ethan.
Well worth reading.
An enjoyable read and I looked the epilogue which sees a friend of Cillian meets his mate, Ethan.
Well worth reading.
April 22, 2026
Different
Hmm... Ms. Oliver is an autopurchase for me. However, I really struggled with this book. The conversation between the MC seemed so stilted and cold. I didn't get any emotional connection between them. Even the spicy parts where off. Around the 60% mark it got better but not by much. If not for her name on the book, I never would have thought this one was written by her. Hopefully, it's just me.
Hmm... Ms. Oliver is an autopurchase for me. However, I really struggled with this book. The conversation between the MC seemed so stilted and cold. I didn't get any emotional connection between them. Even the spicy parts where off. Around the 60% mark it got better but not by much. If not for her name on the book, I never would have thought this one was written by her. Hopefully, it's just me.
May 12, 2026
A Definite Change, but still a well-written, intriguing Lisa Oliver story!
This is definitely not a meet-cute romance. The characters are beyond quirky. The “monster” could definitely be frightening, but not to his intrigued mate! The bad guys get quick, karmic, gory comeuppance! Definitely pick this up! It was a great read. I look forward to the next books in the series by this talented author!
This is definitely not a meet-cute romance. The characters are beyond quirky. The “monster” could definitely be frightening, but not to his intrigued mate! The bad guys get quick, karmic, gory comeuppance! Definitely pick this up! It was a great read. I look forward to the next books in the series by this talented author!
April 25, 2026
Cillian & Julian
A very entertaining start to the new series. Cillian and his brothers are a group of protectors that are gray in many ways. When he comes into Julian's life, he unknowingly brings the danger with him. This book is a fascinating thrill ride that tugs at your emotions. Truly enjoyable!
A very entertaining start to the new series. Cillian and his brothers are a group of protectors that are gray in many ways. When he comes into Julian's life, he unknowingly brings the danger with him. This book is a fascinating thrill ride that tugs at your emotions. Truly enjoyable!
April 29, 2026
3.5 stars. The story was fun, if predictable. The writing style is so lacking in chemistry and on-page emotion that it grates on me. But monster romance? I'm here for it. And while I'm not going to actively seek out more from this author, I will probably (??) pick up Rook's book when it comes out, too.
April 24, 2026
Loved this story
My concern is do we have to wait one to five years
for the next book ? Are the mates immortal now if not why not? Why do they not have their own shadows when mated? Cool mate shadow tattoos that protects the mates. Loved it but something is missing
My concern is do we have to wait one to five years
for the next book ? Are the mates immortal now if not why not? Why do they not have their own shadows when mated? Cool mate shadow tattoos that protects the mates. Loved it but something is missing
April 24, 2026
A Great Start to a new series by Lisa Oliver
Well done and perfectly awkward, sweet, and humorous. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. If you like fated mates and morally gray characters, this is a good choice.
Well done and perfectly awkward, sweet, and humorous. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. If you like fated mates and morally gray characters, this is a good choice.
April 27, 2026
Loved it
The main characters are awesome and perfect for each other. This is definitely a Lisa Oliver romance just maybe a little grey and not dark. I am looking forward to the next book and I wish the author had allowed some corrective measures to the library management.
The main characters are awesome and perfect for each other. This is definitely a Lisa Oliver romance just maybe a little grey and not dark. I am looking forward to the next book and I wish the author had allowed some corrective measures to the library management.
May 12, 2026
Enjoyed
I really enjoy it when Lisa Oliver goes off in weird directions. I’ll definitely be waiting for the second book in this series. I thought it was fun. Dark? Not really, but definitely fun with characters that have quirky personalities.
I really enjoy it when Lisa Oliver goes off in weird directions. I’ll definitely be waiting for the second book in this series. I thought it was fun. Dark? Not really, but definitely fun with characters that have quirky personalities.
April 22, 2026
Wow, just wow. I'm positively impressed about how much I enjoyed this romantic story. A romance between Julian and Cillian. A definite must read. Recommended!
April 22, 2026
Love it.
Read
April 28, 2026Found it meh and a little boring
🤷♀️
🤷♀️
April 29, 2026
I loved it
I enjoy every book I've read from Lisa but this one is by far my favorite. Julian was so funny without trying. I couldn't put it done & can't wait for book 2.
I enjoy every book I've read from Lisa but this one is by far my favorite. Julian was so funny without trying. I couldn't put it done & can't wait for book 2.
April 30, 2026
this was such a great book. Different than what she usually rights but so good, Can't wait for the next book
May 9, 2026
Cat wait for the next one!
May 10, 2026
Wow
This is one of the best books written by this author. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
This is one of the best books written by this author. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
April 29, 2026
A little dark but a lot of fun!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. And happily waiting to find out how each of the brothers find their beacons and what each of them must overcome.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. And happily waiting to find out how each of the brothers find their beacons and what each of them must overcome.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews