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The Harbinger's Redemption: a Monster Romance
Will their love save the world, or end it?
As the sole survivor of a doomsday cult, Willow Hawkins isn’t easily rattled. It makes her well-suited for a security gig at a monster research facility.
But Subject X-16 isn’t a monster. Not yet, at least. Beneath his sprouting feathers and numerous red eyes, he’s a sweet and lonely young man terrified by what he’s turning into.
When Willow discovers she’s the only one immune to his strange and dangerous “episodes,” it feels like fate. She’s always believed that she survived for a reason, and perhaps he is that reason. As she races against time for a way to control X-16’s eruptions of uncanny power and stop his gruesome transformation, she can’t help but care for him. Yet the closer they become, the more she sees signs of the apocalypse her childhood cult foretold.
If Sixteen completes his transformation, it might mean the end of the world. So did fate bring Willow here to save the man she’s falling for, or to kill him and prevent the apocalypse?
As the sole survivor of a doomsday cult, Willow Hawkins isn’t easily rattled. It makes her well-suited for a security gig at a monster research facility.
But Subject X-16 isn’t a monster. Not yet, at least. Beneath his sprouting feathers and numerous red eyes, he’s a sweet and lonely young man terrified by what he’s turning into.
When Willow discovers she’s the only one immune to his strange and dangerous “episodes,” it feels like fate. She’s always believed that she survived for a reason, and perhaps he is that reason. As she races against time for a way to control X-16’s eruptions of uncanny power and stop his gruesome transformation, she can’t help but care for him. Yet the closer they become, the more she sees signs of the apocalypse her childhood cult foretold.
If Sixteen completes his transformation, it might mean the end of the world. So did fate bring Willow here to save the man she’s falling for, or to kill him and prevent the apocalypse?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 2, 2026
Thank you to BookSirens for an advanced copy of this book!
Woah. This is a weird one, but it was absolutely my kind of weird. I could not put it down and read almost all of it in one sitting. It's my first ARC from BookSirens and now I'm very intrigued to pick up more.
I went in with extremely low expectations. I was prepared for poor editing and flat characters, and I feel guilty about it now. This feels like a project from someone who put a lot of care and thought into it, and it read smoother and emotionally resonated stronger than some traditionally published books I've read. Willow was an easy character to latch onto, and her chemistry with the sympathetic and sweet X-16 was perfect. I don't want to say too much else, because a lot of the things I really enjoyed were subversions of my expectations.
One thing that could strike as negative is that there's a lot of religious content. The main character has some religious trauma and the plot really wants to make her think about it. As someone who went to Catholic school her whole life and is very much an atheist, this made me feel some squirmy discomfort, but not in the way that I've felt when reading Christian Fiction (which I have done by accident a few times.)
I have not read the other books in the series, but if they're all this good I have absolutely been missing out. This was dark, creative, grotesque, hopeful, and romantic all at once and all in perfect balance.
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Body horror, Death, Sexual content, Blood
Moderate: Confinement, Cursing, Gore, Violence, Medical content, Religious bigotry, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Vomit, Suicide attempt, Death of parent
Woah. This is a weird one, but it was absolutely my kind of weird. I could not put it down and read almost all of it in one sitting. It's my first ARC from BookSirens and now I'm very intrigued to pick up more.
I went in with extremely low expectations. I was prepared for poor editing and flat characters, and I feel guilty about it now. This feels like a project from someone who put a lot of care and thought into it, and it read smoother and emotionally resonated stronger than some traditionally published books I've read. Willow was an easy character to latch onto, and her chemistry with the sympathetic and sweet X-16 was perfect. I don't want to say too much else, because a lot of the things I really enjoyed were subversions of my expectations.
One thing that could strike as negative is that there's a lot of religious content. The main character has some religious trauma and the plot really wants to make her think about it. As someone who went to Catholic school her whole life and is very much an atheist, this made me feel some squirmy discomfort, but not in the way that I've felt when reading Christian Fiction (which I have done by accident a few times.)
I have not read the other books in the series, but if they're all this good I have absolutely been missing out. This was dark, creative, grotesque, hopeful, and romantic all at once and all in perfect balance.
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Body horror, Death, Sexual content, Blood
Moderate: Confinement, Cursing, Gore, Violence, Medical content, Religious bigotry, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Vomit, Suicide attempt, Death of parent
April 21, 2026
Fantastic addition to the Monster Research Facility series by Skyla Grey, The Harbinger’s Redemption is a heart-wrenching forbidden love story.
As only one of two people to survive a cult as a six year old child after a mass su!c!de in the vein of the Jonestown Massacre, Willow is a new hire at MRF, a high security facility that houses supernatural beings. It soon becomes evident that she’s the only person who can be in the presence of subject X-16 without discomfort or outright injury. She becomes fascinated by and deeply sympathetic toward Sixteen, while others are maimed or killed, however unintentionally.
Changeling X-16 has voluntarily checked himself into MRF because he’s convinced he’s a danger to himself and the public at large. Drastic changes have been happening to him bodily and mentally, and his effect on others is often violent and unpredictable.
Willow discovers that the doomsday cult from which she narrowly escaped with her life as a young girl is still in operation and they believe that sacrificing X-16 is their ticket to “saving” the world. Meanwhile, deep feelings are developing between Willow and X-16.
Can they escape the clutches of the madmen and women trying to k!ll them? Or will the current iteration of the cult succeed where the previous one failed?
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
As only one of two people to survive a cult as a six year old child after a mass su!c!de in the vein of the Jonestown Massacre, Willow is a new hire at MRF, a high security facility that houses supernatural beings. It soon becomes evident that she’s the only person who can be in the presence of subject X-16 without discomfort or outright injury. She becomes fascinated by and deeply sympathetic toward Sixteen, while others are maimed or killed, however unintentionally.
Changeling X-16 has voluntarily checked himself into MRF because he’s convinced he’s a danger to himself and the public at large. Drastic changes have been happening to him bodily and mentally, and his effect on others is often violent and unpredictable.
Willow discovers that the doomsday cult from which she narrowly escaped with her life as a young girl is still in operation and they believe that sacrificing X-16 is their ticket to “saving” the world. Meanwhile, deep feelings are developing between Willow and X-16.
Can they escape the clutches of the madmen and women trying to k!ll them? Or will the current iteration of the cult succeed where the previous one failed?
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
May 2, 2026
She was meant to stop the apocalypse, not fall in love with it.
Willow has spent her life carrying survival like a debt she can never repay. A security job at a secret monster facility should be just another dangerous assignment, but the moment she sees Subject X-16, something in her recognizes him. He isn’t just a threat behind glass. He’s lonely, terrified, and changing into something no one knows how to stop.
Cain has been treated like a disaster waiting to happen, a body to contain, a power to sedate, and a name no one is allowed to ask for. His episodes can break people, but Willow is the one person who can stand near him without falling apart. The closer she gets, the harder it is to see him as the monster everyone fears, even as the signs start to look like the end she was raised to expect.
Their connection builds between compassion and danger, where trust becomes physical, command becomes comfort, and touch pulls him back from the edge. Willow wants to save him, but every answer circles the same brutal question: was she brought to him to love him, or to stop him?
Willow grows from a guarded survivor who thinks she has to earn her life into a woman who can choose desire and tenderness. Cain shifts from a nameless, self-loathing threat into a man who can accept touch, trust, identity, and love without reducing himself to what others fear. Their bond turns wary compassion into dangerous intimacy, built on surrender, protection, and seeing humanity where everyone else sees ruin.
An ultra-steamy paranormal monster romance with horror and romantic suspense at its core. It’s about survival guilt, religious trauma, trust after trauma, and choosing love and agency when fate has already named someone a monster. It’s tender, frightening, intimate, and built around a bond that turns inherited darkness into defiance.
The Elevator Pitch: A guarded survivor takes a job inside a secret monster facility and finds herself drawn to the one subject everyone fears most. He is gentle, dangerous, and unraveling into something prophecy-shaped, but her touch becomes the only thing that can call him back. As old cult wounds and end-of-the-world signs close around them, love becomes both the risk and the last possible mercy.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
Willow has spent her life carrying survival like a debt she can never repay. A security job at a secret monster facility should be just another dangerous assignment, but the moment she sees Subject X-16, something in her recognizes him. He isn’t just a threat behind glass. He’s lonely, terrified, and changing into something no one knows how to stop.
Cain has been treated like a disaster waiting to happen, a body to contain, a power to sedate, and a name no one is allowed to ask for. His episodes can break people, but Willow is the one person who can stand near him without falling apart. The closer she gets, the harder it is to see him as the monster everyone fears, even as the signs start to look like the end she was raised to expect.
Their connection builds between compassion and danger, where trust becomes physical, command becomes comfort, and touch pulls him back from the edge. Willow wants to save him, but every answer circles the same brutal question: was she brought to him to love him, or to stop him?
Willow grows from a guarded survivor who thinks she has to earn her life into a woman who can choose desire and tenderness. Cain shifts from a nameless, self-loathing threat into a man who can accept touch, trust, identity, and love without reducing himself to what others fear. Their bond turns wary compassion into dangerous intimacy, built on surrender, protection, and seeing humanity where everyone else sees ruin.
An ultra-steamy paranormal monster romance with horror and romantic suspense at its core. It’s about survival guilt, religious trauma, trust after trauma, and choosing love and agency when fate has already named someone a monster. It’s tender, frightening, intimate, and built around a bond that turns inherited darkness into defiance.
The Elevator Pitch: A guarded survivor takes a job inside a secret monster facility and finds herself drawn to the one subject everyone fears most. He is gentle, dangerous, and unraveling into something prophecy-shaped, but her touch becomes the only thing that can call him back. As old cult wounds and end-of-the-world signs close around them, love becomes both the risk and the last possible mercy.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
May 5, 2026
4.25 stars. This story is female lead POV, well written and edited, and a slowburn, sweet and steamy, contemporary fantasy romance between Willow, the female security guard lead, and the male monster lead withholding his name after having voluntarily interred himself in her research facility. I empathised with Willow’s historical trauma and appreciated the work she’d done to recognise it. I enjoyed her confidence in her capacity. I enjoyed her pride in being able to work with the male lead. I enjoyed seeing him open up to her. I enjoyed the building relationship, and Willow’s confidence in both what she wanted and that it was also what he wanted. I appreciated her calm under pressure, and I enjoyed the steamy, female led, intimate scenes. I enjoyed the ending, with both characters enjoying their relationship but still working out how to deal with the world.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 8, 2026
Sadly, this onr was not for me.
I love this author so much, the writing was good and addictive as always, but I really coudn't connect with the story.
I didn't believe in the love story. It was much of an insta love, and I didn't like how the FMC sexualized the MMC while he was a patient. It felt weird and creepy, so I realllly couldn't connect with her.
I adored the MMC, but I'm not a fan of the choice the author made with the story line. It felt toxic, and we never really saw them connect beyond sexual tension on her part. It felt like she took huge advantage of his trauma, and that didn't sit right with me.
I love this author so much, the writing was good and addictive as always, but I really coudn't connect with the story.
I didn't believe in the love story. It was much of an insta love, and I didn't like how the FMC sexualized the MMC while he was a patient. It felt weird and creepy, so I realllly couldn't connect with her.
I adored the MMC, but I'm not a fan of the choice the author made with the story line. It felt toxic, and we never really saw them connect beyond sexual tension on her part. It felt like she took huge advantage of his trauma, and that didn't sit right with me.
May 1, 2026
🖤Fantasy romance - PNR
📿Monster romance
🖤Security guard x subject
📿Submissive monster
🖤Bound by fate
📿Cult survivor x harbinger of the apocalypse
🖤Spooky and spicy
📿Standalone in interconnected series
♥️♥️Huge thanks to Skyla Gray for selecting me to read this arc, it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own♥️♥️
MRF, or Melsbach Research Facility, specializes in the containment of creatures whose existence is not known to the outside world. Willow has just worked there and must face her haunting past again when she meets Subject X-16. Willow is the sole survivor of a cult's mass suicide that occurred 26 years ago, on the same day Subject X-16 was born. Subject X-16 has been sought and believed by the cult to be The Harbinger who can bring the end of the world. Subject X-16's mere presence can have a bad effect on those around him, without even touching—he can cause someone to feel unwell and his episodes can make people injure or kill themselves. but somehow Willow is immune to all of those effects, being the only one who can calm him down during his episodes. Day by day, his episodes become more dangerous, the transformation of X-16's body also progresses rapidly. then Willow determines to save him by looking into X-16's life and his connection to the cult that almost killed her.
I had a very good time with this book🥰 I don't even know what to say, I have no complaints. Willow and X-16 (or Cain), made such a beautiful couple😍 I loved them both so much and their interactions make the story even more interesting✨🥰
From page one I was hooked😍 the strange case of this subject X-16 kept me glued to the pages!🤩 the pacing is smooth, the plot didn't feel rushed and the dynamic between Willow and X-16 was truly a chef's kiss🥰 How Willow takes care of him professionally...how she calms him down when his episodes affect so badly the people around him, and how she keeps assuring him that he is not a monster that could lead to the end of the world like the cult believed🥰 I love how x-16 is so shy and obedient to Willow...it's sooo cute😍 this book was intensely absorbing and addictive, it leaves you wanting more😍 A must-read for monster romance lovers✨✨
📿Monster romance
🖤Security guard x subject
📿Submissive monster
🖤Bound by fate
📿Cult survivor x harbinger of the apocalypse
🖤Spooky and spicy
📿Standalone in interconnected series
♥️♥️Huge thanks to Skyla Gray for selecting me to read this arc, it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own♥️♥️
MRF, or Melsbach Research Facility, specializes in the containment of creatures whose existence is not known to the outside world. Willow has just worked there and must face her haunting past again when she meets Subject X-16. Willow is the sole survivor of a cult's mass suicide that occurred 26 years ago, on the same day Subject X-16 was born. Subject X-16 has been sought and believed by the cult to be The Harbinger who can bring the end of the world. Subject X-16's mere presence can have a bad effect on those around him, without even touching—he can cause someone to feel unwell and his episodes can make people injure or kill themselves. but somehow Willow is immune to all of those effects, being the only one who can calm him down during his episodes. Day by day, his episodes become more dangerous, the transformation of X-16's body also progresses rapidly. then Willow determines to save him by looking into X-16's life and his connection to the cult that almost killed her.
"I want to live," he says, his voice shaky, quiet again. Himself again. "Especially because I just—I just found you—"
I had a very good time with this book🥰 I don't even know what to say, I have no complaints. Willow and X-16 (or Cain), made such a beautiful couple😍 I loved them both so much and their interactions make the story even more interesting✨🥰
"I said you're my monster, and I meant it. It doesn't matter what form you take. You're mine."
From page one I was hooked😍 the strange case of this subject X-16 kept me glued to the pages!🤩 the pacing is smooth, the plot didn't feel rushed and the dynamic between Willow and X-16 was truly a chef's kiss🥰 How Willow takes care of him professionally...how she calms him down when his episodes affect so badly the people around him, and how she keeps assuring him that he is not a monster that could lead to the end of the world like the cult believed🥰 I love how x-16 is so shy and obedient to Willow...it's sooo cute😍 this book was intensely absorbing and addictive, it leaves you wanting more😍 A must-read for monster romance lovers✨✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
A huge "thank you!" to the Author for providing me a free ARC, I was really happy to read this book in advance because I'm a huge fan of the series. And I'm very happy to share my honest thoughts. Which I hope help both author and readers
💕
A bold book for the series, but I felt like the romance was on second plan.
4/5⭐
This book was, as usual for this series, well written. And Skyla did have a bold imaginative idea for this one.
There's heavy plot and a lot of fluff in the beginning However, I felt like the romance was mostly forgotten, until the later part of this book.
For those reading a book mainly for the plot, suspense, and the religious and creative aspect, it's an amazing book to read. But for those who came and kept reading for the romance and spice, I feel like the middle part of this book will feel too heavy for them.
The introduction of X-16 was very interesting, his file gave me the chills, and I was genuinely excited to keep reading. The general idea of the story was also very creative and detailed, but the middle felt a little dragged, and the smut felt.. out of place, and almost forced.
The epilogue was definitely not for me, nor the kinks, but that's just my personal taste.
I got very curious about his taste in books and would love to get a list on his favorite book series and authors.
The MMC was cute and sweet, and I kept fawning over him. I hope we get to know more about how is in the next books
I liked seeing a bolder side, and I think she could have bet more on the fluff and them having deeper conversations about their feelings and the things they liked, more than they did. I wanted to see more connection between them, rather than just trauma bonding. And balancing more the romance with the plot. Otherwise it's a really good book.
A bold book for the series, but I felt like the romance was on second plan.
4/5⭐
This book was, as usual for this series, well written. And Skyla did have a bold imaginative idea for this one.
There's heavy plot and a lot of fluff in the beginning However, I felt like the romance was mostly forgotten, until the later part of this book.
For those reading a book mainly for the plot, suspense, and the religious and creative aspect, it's an amazing book to read. But for those who came and kept reading for the romance and spice, I feel like the middle part of this book will feel too heavy for them.
The introduction of X-16 was very interesting, his file gave me the chills, and I was genuinely excited to keep reading. The general idea of the story was also very creative and detailed, but the middle felt a little dragged, and the smut felt.. out of place, and almost forced.
The epilogue was definitely not for me, nor the kinks, but that's just my personal taste.
I got very curious about his taste in books and would love to get a list on his favorite book series and authors.
The MMC was cute and sweet, and I kept fawning over him. I hope we get to know more about how is in the next books
I liked seeing a bolder side, and I think she could have bet more on the fluff and them having deeper conversations about their feelings and the things they liked, more than they did. I wanted to see more connection between them, rather than just trauma bonding. And balancing more the romance with the plot. Otherwise it's a really good book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I genuinely don’t think I have the language for what this book did to me - but I’m going to try anyway.
I picked up The Harbinger’s Redemption this morning and did not come up for air until it was over.
Hours gone.
Brain chemistry altered.
If you’ve been reading Skyla Gray’s Monster Research Facility series, you already know she writes monsters like they ✨️feel✨️ - but this one? This one is different. This one claws under your skin and stays there.
Willow Hawkins walks into a desert facility built to cage the impossible - and immediately chooses not fear, not violence, but understanding.
Even when the lights go out.
Even when the shadows start moving.
Even when the very thing she craves in that place is designed to break her.
And then there’s Subject X-16.
Black Threat Level.
No name.
Three red eyes.
A voice that says “I didn’t mean to.” like he’s apologising for existing.
I’m not okay.
Because this isn’t just “monster romance.” This is watching a man who can make people destroy themselves grieve for hurting others. This is him having nightmares. This is him not being used to people telling him their names.
And Willow, God, Willow - looking at something the entire world fears and choosing softness anyway. Choosing to stay. Choosing him.
It’s teeth and terror and fluorescent-lit corridors and something ancient and wrong - and right in the middle of it, this quiet, devastating tenderness that hits so much harder than anything violent ever could.
The romance feels like standing too close to something dangerous and realising you don’t want to step back.
Watching Sixteen find even a moment of peace in Willow's presence? Watching her treat him like he’s person when everything else calls him a weapon?
I’m ruined.
This series has always been addictive, but this one feels like a turning point - sharper, darker, more intimate. Like the story itself is unravelling alongside him.
Willow and her Harbinger have permanently altered me, and I don’t think I want to recover.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and am sharing my honest review.
I picked up The Harbinger’s Redemption this morning and did not come up for air until it was over.
Hours gone.
Brain chemistry altered.
If you’ve been reading Skyla Gray’s Monster Research Facility series, you already know she writes monsters like they ✨️feel✨️ - but this one? This one is different. This one claws under your skin and stays there.
Willow Hawkins walks into a desert facility built to cage the impossible - and immediately chooses not fear, not violence, but understanding.
Even when the lights go out.
Even when the shadows start moving.
Even when the very thing she craves in that place is designed to break her.
And then there’s Subject X-16.
Black Threat Level.
No name.
Three red eyes.
A voice that says “I didn’t mean to.” like he’s apologising for existing.
I’m not okay.
Because this isn’t just “monster romance.” This is watching a man who can make people destroy themselves grieve for hurting others. This is him having nightmares. This is him not being used to people telling him their names.
And Willow, God, Willow - looking at something the entire world fears and choosing softness anyway. Choosing to stay. Choosing him.
It’s teeth and terror and fluorescent-lit corridors and something ancient and wrong - and right in the middle of it, this quiet, devastating tenderness that hits so much harder than anything violent ever could.
The romance feels like standing too close to something dangerous and realising you don’t want to step back.
Watching Sixteen find even a moment of peace in Willow's presence? Watching her treat him like he’s person when everything else calls him a weapon?
I’m ruined.
This series has always been addictive, but this one feels like a turning point - sharper, darker, more intimate. Like the story itself is unravelling alongside him.
Willow and her Harbinger have permanently altered me, and I don’t think I want to recover.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and am sharing my honest review.
May 21, 2026
Okay this was totally not what I was expecting, but I absolutely loved it! This was my first introduction to the author and the series, and it was seriously enticing.
The story had me completely hooked. Look, this one was out there for sure, but man did I ever enjoy it. The characters were phenomenal! The MMC was just so darn sweet and adorable. I really loved his character, how the author managed to take an absolute monster and turn him into a little guy, someone that the reader is totally rooting for. We LOVE a sub MMC. The MFC is badass and dominant, and man does she make a good argument for the "I can fix him" girls out there.
What I wasn't expecting when reading this was the subtle religious undertones, especially as the story and plot develops. I can't lie though, I think it added so much to the story. The idea of religious trauma being thickly woven into the plot made the whole setting so much more eerie, and I really felt that it was the main reason I got so sucked into the story to begin with. The worldbuilding and 'vibes' of this story were so well done, I was on edge the entire time reading, in the best possible way.
I can't lie, I would not go into this expecting the main focus to be romance. I feel as if the incredible plot itself takes more of a focus, with the mystery slowly being revealed as the book goes on. Trust me, I am normally a full romance girlie, and romance is normally what I want the main focus to be in a book, but man did this ever not need just romance to drive the plot! It definitely wasn't the greatest love story ever written, it was much more about the sexual tension between the characters then them actually getting to know and love each other, but I absolutely loved every second anyways.
Overall, I really thoroughly enjoyed this book - I read it all in one go, couldn't put it down! I would absolutely recommend for anyone looking for absolutely incredible storytelling, characters, and world building with their spice ;)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily :)
The story had me completely hooked. Look, this one was out there for sure, but man did I ever enjoy it. The characters were phenomenal! The MMC was just so darn sweet and adorable. I really loved his character, how the author managed to take an absolute monster and turn him into a little guy, someone that the reader is totally rooting for. We LOVE a sub MMC. The MFC is badass and dominant, and man does she make a good argument for the "I can fix him" girls out there.
What I wasn't expecting when reading this was the subtle religious undertones, especially as the story and plot develops. I can't lie though, I think it added so much to the story. The idea of religious trauma being thickly woven into the plot made the whole setting so much more eerie, and I really felt that it was the main reason I got so sucked into the story to begin with. The worldbuilding and 'vibes' of this story were so well done, I was on edge the entire time reading, in the best possible way.
I can't lie, I would not go into this expecting the main focus to be romance. I feel as if the incredible plot itself takes more of a focus, with the mystery slowly being revealed as the book goes on. Trust me, I am normally a full romance girlie, and romance is normally what I want the main focus to be in a book, but man did this ever not need just romance to drive the plot! It definitely wasn't the greatest love story ever written, it was much more about the sexual tension between the characters then them actually getting to know and love each other, but I absolutely loved every second anyways.
Overall, I really thoroughly enjoyed this book - I read it all in one go, couldn't put it down! I would absolutely recommend for anyone looking for absolutely incredible storytelling, characters, and world building with their spice ;)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily :)
Review of advance copy
Willow has been searching for meaning ever since she survived a doomsday cult as a child. She's worked security in many different situations, and she finds her new job at MRF surprisingly engaging. As the facility researches mysterious monsters and creatures of legends, X-16 seems a strange inhabitant of the facilities. He largely seems human with the exception of his continuing development of eyes and feathers, but he has a dangerous effect on anyone monitoring him. When Willow discovers she is naturally resistant to X-16's effects, she thinks she's finally found her purpose in life. But as X-16 continues to change, Willow starts to wonder if he's the apocalypse her cult prayed for.
As always, I enjoy returning to the Monster Research Facility series. I love how the research center has clearly changed to better serve the needs of the monsters it holds. X-16 is very dangerous, but is clearly a tragic character, as he has little control of the changes affecting him and he doesn't want to hurt anyone else. I also liked how Willow does her best to maintain her professionalism while still helping X-16 and meeting his emotional needs. Her history of religious trauma colors a lot of how she sees X-16 and herself. While she has clearly taken steps to help herself process her past, her healing is incomplete, making her a very realistic work in progress style character. She doesn't always make the right decisions, but her heart is a clear guiding force.
Another excellent edition to the series that emphasizes confronting one's past. Compared to other books in the series, this was a more slow burn, but it was still a fantastic read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As always, I enjoy returning to the Monster Research Facility series. I love how the research center has clearly changed to better serve the needs of the monsters it holds. X-16 is very dangerous, but is clearly a tragic character, as he has little control of the changes affecting him and he doesn't want to hurt anyone else. I also liked how Willow does her best to maintain her professionalism while still helping X-16 and meeting his emotional needs. Her history of religious trauma colors a lot of how she sees X-16 and herself. While she has clearly taken steps to help herself process her past, her healing is incomplete, making her a very realistic work in progress style character. She doesn't always make the right decisions, but her heart is a clear guiding force.
Another excellent edition to the series that emphasizes confronting one's past. Compared to other books in the series, this was a more slow burn, but it was still a fantastic read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to Skyla for sending me an arc copy of this book! I was so excited to read it! These are all my honest thoughts and opinions.
I love this series so much and am always so excited to read every addition to it. This particular book was a completely different vibe than the others in that it had a lot more religious elements, covered more about trauma from the past for both characters, and the FMC was the dominant one in their relationship (which I loved!).
I loved Willow’s personality, as it was very dimensional and she had different sides to her. Sixteen’s hesitancy and unsureness made their connection all the more sweeter! I really appreciated the different dynamic their relationship had, as it made so much sense for their characters and made for a (somewhat) slowburn. There was a lot of “comfort” trope in this book and it was so cute. I also loved the whole “only she can touch/be near him” aspect. So romantic!!
I also like how every book in this series does not just focus on romance, but also has an actual plot following the characters, and this one was no exception! I think it covered ideas that have not yet been introduced in the series and it made for an action packed ending.
I highly recommend reading this! I clearly enjoyed this considering I read it in one night/morning. I was addicted to finding out everything and seeing Willow and Sixteen officially get together.
Thank you again Skyla! I cannot wait for more of the series!!
I love this series so much and am always so excited to read every addition to it. This particular book was a completely different vibe than the others in that it had a lot more religious elements, covered more about trauma from the past for both characters, and the FMC was the dominant one in their relationship (which I loved!).
I loved Willow’s personality, as it was very dimensional and she had different sides to her. Sixteen’s hesitancy and unsureness made their connection all the more sweeter! I really appreciated the different dynamic their relationship had, as it made so much sense for their characters and made for a (somewhat) slowburn. There was a lot of “comfort” trope in this book and it was so cute. I also loved the whole “only she can touch/be near him” aspect. So romantic!!
I also like how every book in this series does not just focus on romance, but also has an actual plot following the characters, and this one was no exception! I think it covered ideas that have not yet been introduced in the series and it made for an action packed ending.
I highly recommend reading this! I clearly enjoyed this considering I read it in one night/morning. I was addicted to finding out everything and seeing Willow and Sixteen officially get together.
Thank you again Skyla! I cannot wait for more of the series!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Skyla Gray writes interesting, weird, spooky, spicy books, and The Harbinger’s Redemption is no exception. Fourth in the Monster Research Facility series, I believe it can be read as a standalone, though it is a richer story knowing the history and universe Gray has created. I have read all 4 and feel this is an excellent installment in the series. I read it in day.
Easy to read, characters with history, depth, and growth, and more spooky than most romance books I come across. I do wish we had a chapter or two from MMC Sixteen’s point of view, but it doesn’t feel missing from the story.
Thanks to Skyla Gray I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spoilers! Below are the tags I included in my personal tracking that other readers may find relevant: anal, Arizona, dark, dempn, fmc-willow, interseries, interspecies, mmc-sixteen, monster, slow burn, toys, virgin
Fiction, fantasy, romance, adventurous, emotional, mysterious, medium pace
Plot or Character Driven: plot
Strong character development: yes
Lovable characters: yes
Diverse cast of characters: complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: yes
Prior reading required: no, but you totally should
Would you read it again: yes, when rereading the full series
Recommend to friends: yes, if they were looking for a spooky monster romance with religious or cult undertones
Meet Cute: He’s a subject at the facility she works security for
POV: first person, FMC
Easy to read, characters with history, depth, and growth, and more spooky than most romance books I come across. I do wish we had a chapter or two from MMC Sixteen’s point of view, but it doesn’t feel missing from the story.
Thanks to Skyla Gray I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spoilers! Below are the tags I included in my personal tracking that other readers may find relevant: anal, Arizona, dark, dempn, fmc-willow, interseries, interspecies, mmc-sixteen, monster, slow burn, toys, virgin
Fiction, fantasy, romance, adventurous, emotional, mysterious, medium pace
Plot or Character Driven: plot
Strong character development: yes
Lovable characters: yes
Diverse cast of characters: complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: yes
Prior reading required: no, but you totally should
Would you read it again: yes, when rereading the full series
Recommend to friends: yes, if they were looking for a spooky monster romance with religious or cult undertones
Meet Cute: He’s a subject at the facility she works security for
POV: first person, FMC
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC Review — Harbinger’s Redemption by Skyla Gray ✨
🪽 Spice: 2/5
💞 Longing: 5/5
🖤 Emotional tension: 5/5
✨ Overall: Absolutely addictive
I have not been this obsessed with a winged man since Patch Cipriano, and honestly, this book completely stole my heart. Skyla gave us a story filled with aching devotion, tender healing, and that irresistible "I would burn the world for you" kind of love.
The connection between these two feels so raw and intimate because it is not built only on attraction, it is built on need. The way they protect each other, soften for each other, and slowly become each other’s safe place was genuinely beautiful. There is a soft femdom/submissive undercurrent woven into their dynamic, and it made every interaction feel even more delicious.
One of my favorite parts was seeing the facility begin to feel less cold and cruel, almost as if even that world is learning how to love its monsters. And the fact that still lingers in this story made everything feel even sweeter for longtime readers of the series.
Skyla continues to prove that this series is pure magic, and I already know I will be counting the days until the next book 🖤📖✨
🪽 Spice: 2/5
💞 Longing: 5/5
🖤 Emotional tension: 5/5
✨ Overall: Absolutely addictive
I have not been this obsessed with a winged man since Patch Cipriano, and honestly, this book completely stole my heart. Skyla gave us a story filled with aching devotion, tender healing, and that irresistible "I would burn the world for you" kind of love.
The connection between these two feels so raw and intimate because it is not built only on attraction, it is built on need. The way they protect each other, soften for each other, and slowly become each other’s safe place was genuinely beautiful. There is a soft femdom/submissive undercurrent woven into their dynamic, and it made every interaction feel even more delicious.
One of my favorite parts was seeing the facility begin to feel less cold and cruel, almost as if even that world is learning how to love its monsters. And the fact that still lingers in this story made everything feel even sweeter for longtime readers of the series.
Skyla continues to prove that this series is pure magic, and I already know I will be counting the days until the next book 🖤📖✨
May 4, 2026
*4.5 stars*
I’m going to refer to the main MMC as X-16 to avoid spoilers! This was definitely a wild ride from start to finish. From Willow’s past with the cult, to X-16’s connection to her, to their undeniable connection, X-16’s struggle with his transformation to a crazy cult, I was invested in these two from the start. I loved the religious trauma and corrupt angelic form of X-16, it really tied to the two of them together. You couldn’t help but become borderline obsessed with X-16 just like Willow did. It was clear to see the kind, insecure, sweet boy underneath that had never experienced love from another person. I think the broken pieces of Willow called to him just as his pieces called to her.
There were definitely some gruesome moments and some very sad ones. This book definitely was the saddest so far in my opinion, my heart really hurt for them. But once they were finally able to connect, it was undeniable. The spice was right up my alley, with X-16 being very submissive and obedient. Willow was the one in charge during their scenes and I have no complaints about that. My one compliant would be the things that actually saved X-16 in the end. I wish they would have explained more about how *that* ended up fixing him? Other than that, I really enjoyed it, especially the epilogue *wink wink*.
I’m going to refer to the main MMC as X-16 to avoid spoilers! This was definitely a wild ride from start to finish. From Willow’s past with the cult, to X-16’s connection to her, to their undeniable connection, X-16’s struggle with his transformation to a crazy cult, I was invested in these two from the start. I loved the religious trauma and corrupt angelic form of X-16, it really tied to the two of them together. You couldn’t help but become borderline obsessed with X-16 just like Willow did. It was clear to see the kind, insecure, sweet boy underneath that had never experienced love from another person. I think the broken pieces of Willow called to him just as his pieces called to her.
There were definitely some gruesome moments and some very sad ones. This book definitely was the saddest so far in my opinion, my heart really hurt for them. But once they were finally able to connect, it was undeniable. The spice was right up my alley, with X-16 being very submissive and obedient. Willow was the one in charge during their scenes and I have no complaints about that. My one compliant would be the things that actually saved X-16 in the end. I wish they would have explained more about how *that* ended up fixing him? Other than that, I really enjoyed it, especially the epilogue *wink wink*.
May 22, 2026
This is a story of redemption between a girl with survivor's guilt from a religious cult and a young man at the MRF, trying to be good. Willow realizes that her past keeps her skeptical of forming relationships. As one of the newest guards at MRF, she learns of X-16, and her history may have worked out in her favor, because Willow can be in his presence with very minimal signs of physical hurt.
X-16, or Sixteen, is different from the other patients at MRF. His file, while thick, provides very little information on his monster nature. But he is changing and his episodes are becoming increasingly dangerous and powerful.
Willow and Sixteen slowly become friendly with each other, enough to share small talk. Their emotional growth is sweet to witness, and despite Sixteen's startling physical changes, you see his endearing nature and his desire to be of no harm to those around him. Theirs is a love story and there is a happy ending, but it takes a catastrophic event that is eerily of their shared history to reveal the commitment for each other and their determination of a future together.
Please be mindful of the triggers of this story. It is not necessary to read the prior three books, but you gain a better understanding of the MRF and secondary characters of this volume.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
X-16, or Sixteen, is different from the other patients at MRF. His file, while thick, provides very little information on his monster nature. But he is changing and his episodes are becoming increasingly dangerous and powerful.
Willow and Sixteen slowly become friendly with each other, enough to share small talk. Their emotional growth is sweet to witness, and despite Sixteen's startling physical changes, you see his endearing nature and his desire to be of no harm to those around him. Theirs is a love story and there is a happy ending, but it takes a catastrophic event that is eerily of their shared history to reveal the commitment for each other and their determination of a future together.
Please be mindful of the triggers of this story. It is not necessary to read the prior three books, but you gain a better understanding of the MRF and secondary characters of this volume.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I was really excited to read another Monster Research Facility Book. <3
And I really enjoyed this installment as well. The FMC remained cool, (mostly) level-headed, and highly competent throughout the story. Her devotion to the MMC developed pretty fast, as the FMC was able to recognize his gentle nature right away and treated him, as well as other subjects, with respect at all times. I really liked that about the FMC.
However, I did feel that the MMC was often placed in uncomfortable or distressing situations, and by the end, I found myself wishing we could have seen him happy more often.
I liked the ending as it felt satisfying and like a fitting, logical conclusion to the story. Personally, I would have loved a bit more glimpses into the lives of both the FMC and MMC afterward, but I understand that every story has to come to an end at some point.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read and a worthy addition to the Monster Research Facility series. Perhaps even my favorite so far. I’m definitely looking forward to future installments!
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
And I really enjoyed this installment as well. The FMC remained cool, (mostly) level-headed, and highly competent throughout the story. Her devotion to the MMC developed pretty fast, as the FMC was able to recognize his gentle nature right away and treated him, as well as other subjects, with respect at all times. I really liked that about the FMC.
However, I did feel that the MMC was often placed in uncomfortable or distressing situations, and by the end, I found myself wishing we could have seen him happy more often.
I liked the ending as it felt satisfying and like a fitting, logical conclusion to the story. Personally, I would have loved a bit more glimpses into the lives of both the FMC and MMC afterward, but I understand that every story has to come to an end at some point.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read and a worthy addition to the Monster Research Facility series. Perhaps even my favorite so far. I’m definitely looking forward to future installments!
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
May 15, 2026
This paranormal romance stands out because of its unusual premise and the complicated dynamic between the main characters. The female lead works as security personnel in a research facility, while the male main character—a strange paranormal being who is harbinger angel—is being held there as a test subject.
Right from the beginning, there is a strong sense of tension surrounding him because he has a disturbing effect on nearly everyone around him, except for her. That immediately creates an interesting connection between them and raises a lot of questions about who he really is and why she is unaffected.
The relationship develops in a complicated environment filled with moral ambiguity, power imbalances, and secrecy, which gives the romance a darker and more suspenseful atmosphere. The story leans heavily into mystery and psychological tension alongside the romance.
Overall, this is an intriguing and unconventional paranormal romance with a unique setup and a relationship dynamic that keeps the story engaging throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Right from the beginning, there is a strong sense of tension surrounding him because he has a disturbing effect on nearly everyone around him, except for her. That immediately creates an interesting connection between them and raises a lot of questions about who he really is and why she is unaffected.
The relationship develops in a complicated environment filled with moral ambiguity, power imbalances, and secrecy, which gives the romance a darker and more suspenseful atmosphere. The story leans heavily into mystery and psychological tension alongside the romance.
Overall, this is an intriguing and unconventional paranormal romance with a unique setup and a relationship dynamic that keeps the story engaging throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
3.5 stars. I went into this completely blind and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The plot felt unique, kept my attention the whole way through, and the twists were genuinely unexpected while still adding to the story. I also liked that the romance wasn’t overly dominant for most of the book—the focus stayed on the bigger story, which worked really well for me.
My only real issue was near the end, when it felt like the story suddenly shifted focus to the physical side of the relationship. While the characters had chemistry, I didn’t feel like there had been enough buildup for that turn, so it came a bit out of nowhere.
Overall, I’m really glad I gave this one a chance, especially since it’s outside my usual genre.
3.5 stars. I went into this completely blind and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The plot felt unique, kept my attention the whole way through, and the twists were genuinely unexpected while still adding to the story. I also liked that the romance wasn’t overly dominant for most of the book—the focus stayed on the bigger story, which worked really well for me.
My only real issue was near the end, when it felt like the story suddenly shifted focus to the physical side of the relationship. While the characters had chemistry, I didn’t feel like there had been enough buildup for that turn, so it came a bit out of nowhere.
Overall, I’m really glad I gave this one a chance, especially since it’s outside my usual genre.
Review of advance copy received from Author
AHHHHHH I LOVE THIS SERIES SO MUCH! I reread all of the other books and I love how they all intertwine even though they can also be read as stand alone novels.
This story had me hooked immediately! I absolutely love the man characters and how they were unique to the situation they were in. I loved not knowing what to expect next and I tried my best to just focus on the story to not guess what else might happen.
The development of the relationship between the two main characters was amazing to experience. Skyla gray is amazing with her work and I definitely recommend giving all her books a read!!!!
I’m so excited for the next book to come out as this one gave us a bit more insight to the world and I crave to go back into the world and see what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story had me hooked immediately! I absolutely love the man characters and how they were unique to the situation they were in. I loved not knowing what to expect next and I tried my best to just focus on the story to not guess what else might happen.
The development of the relationship between the two main characters was amazing to experience. Skyla gray is amazing with her work and I definitely recommend giving all her books a read!!!!
I’m so excited for the next book to come out as this one gave us a bit more insight to the world and I crave to go back into the world and see what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️ for this amazing addition to the monster research facility series, kindly sent to me by the author themselves.
This is another excellent story of two very unique characters forming a bond and creating a relationship based upon their experiences of life that proves love can heal.
My favourite part of this series is the style in which this author shows love and trust developing, and how this can heal. Her characters can sometimes be flawed individuals, but prove that love can help to heal.
This story had all the usual spooky elements and had a strong sense of found family that I loved.
Skyla, thank you for allowing me to read this story, this series is always going to have a place in my heart and will stick in my mind ❤️
This is another excellent story of two very unique characters forming a bond and creating a relationship based upon their experiences of life that proves love can heal.
My favourite part of this series is the style in which this author shows love and trust developing, and how this can heal. Her characters can sometimes be flawed individuals, but prove that love can help to heal.
This story had all the usual spooky elements and had a strong sense of found family that I loved.
Skyla, thank you for allowing me to read this story, this series is always going to have a place in my heart and will stick in my mind ❤️
May 2, 2026
If I could rate this higher than five stars, I absolutely would—this is a solid 6-star read for me.
I’ve been obsessed with the Monster Research Facility series from the beginning, to the point where I’ve purchased both the audio and physical copies of the previous books because I loved them so much. So when I saw The Harbinger’s Redemption available as an ARC, I was genuinely thrilled—and it did not disappoint.
This book takes everything I already adored about the series and elevates it. The world-building continues to expand in such a compelling way, and the characters feel more complex and emotionally real than ever. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve been obsessed with the Monster Research Facility series from the beginning, to the point where I’ve purchased both the audio and physical copies of the previous books because I loved them so much. So when I saw The Harbinger’s Redemption available as an ARC, I was genuinely thrilled—and it did not disappoint.
This book takes everything I already adored about the series and elevates it. The world-building continues to expand in such a compelling way, and the characters feel more complex and emotionally real than ever. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2026
Book 4 of Monster Research Facility. Can be read as a standalone but for maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.
'If Sixteen completes his transformation, it might mean the end of the world. So did fate bring Willow here to save the man she’s falling for, or to kill him and prevent the apocalypse?'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and compelling. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'If Sixteen completes his transformation, it might mean the end of the world. So did fate bring Willow here to save the man she’s falling for, or to kill him and prevent the apocalypse?'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and compelling. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2026
Woweee what a ride of a book! The Harbinger’s Redemption is a dark, emotionally involving end of the world romance. Our FMC is a badass security guard living with the aftermath of a massive religious trauma (a big heads up that if you have any religious trauma this book might be a difficult read for you! Check the CWs and take care of yourself💜) Overall THR really captured and held my attention, the setting was so unique and the cast of characters each held their own complexity. I’m shocked I haven’t heard of the series THR belongs to but I know I’m going to need to read the other books now!
Features;
🖤Harbinger MMC
😈Security FMC
🌍Single PoV
🙏🏼SCP Style Setting
🔥Small Town
❤️🔥Healing from Trauma
🖤Well earned HEA
Thank you to BookSirens & Skyla Grey for the advanced review copy! <3
Features;
🖤Harbinger MMC
😈Security FMC
🌍Single PoV
🙏🏼SCP Style Setting
🔥Small Town
❤️🔥Healing from Trauma
🖤Well earned HEA
Thank you to BookSirens & Skyla Grey for the advanced review copy! <3
May 5, 2026
This was my first book by this author and I kept turning the pages late into the night. I really needed to know what was going to happen. The FMC was relatable and suffered from survivors guilt. She had a lotmof empathy. The relationship was realistic. I think the resolution was a bit rushed.
Also (and this is clearly a perosnal preference of mine), I don't enjoy female characters who like to dominate in the bedroom. But I am aware this is just my personal preference and that didn't cause my taking off a star (the rushed resolution is the reason for that).
This is part of a series but it is a standalone. However, I strongly recommend reading the previous books- they are really good.
Also (and this is clearly a perosnal preference of mine), I don't enjoy female characters who like to dominate in the bedroom. But I am aware this is just my personal preference and that didn't cause my taking off a star (the rushed resolution is the reason for that).
This is part of a series but it is a standalone. However, I strongly recommend reading the previous books- they are really good.
May 9, 2026
slow burn to S&M spice
This slow burn romance turns into a spicy dom/sub dynamic by the end and I am totally here for it. There is so much packed into this short spicy book but I absolutely loved every bit of it. Part mystery, part sci-fi, part thriller, part romance… I’m sure there are other parts I’m forgetting.
FMC is the only one who can withstand being around his power, which is growing dangerously.
- MF
- No cheating
- HEA
- triggers include death, lots of blood and pain from the MMC as he undergoes changes, religious references, ritual suicide, attempted suicide, and ritual sacrifice attempts
- spice starts at a 1/5 ends at 4.5/5
This slow burn romance turns into a spicy dom/sub dynamic by the end and I am totally here for it. There is so much packed into this short spicy book but I absolutely loved every bit of it. Part mystery, part sci-fi, part thriller, part romance… I’m sure there are other parts I’m forgetting.
FMC is the only one who can withstand being around his power, which is growing dangerously.
- MF
- No cheating
- HEA
- triggers include death, lots of blood and pain from the MMC as he undergoes changes, religious references, ritual suicide, attempted suicide, and ritual sacrifice attempts
- spice starts at a 1/5 ends at 4.5/5
May 16, 2026
I really enjoy this book. It has dark humour, longing, emotional scenes, a woman wanting to do something good in her life and a man who feels guilty when nothing is his fault.
I really like Willow and her ability to be an Alpha female whilst still being feminine. There is no reason for her not to be both! I feel for X16 as he has been dealt a difficult life, but he tries to do the right thing and suffers greatly for it. I love their chemistry and the spice is super hot.
I think this is a very entertaining and well-written story!
I really like Willow and her ability to be an Alpha female whilst still being feminine. There is no reason for her not to be both! I feel for X16 as he has been dealt a difficult life, but he tries to do the right thing and suffers greatly for it. I love their chemistry and the spice is super hot.
I think this is a very entertaining and well-written story!
May 1, 2026
The odd one
So this... is a bit of a story. I enjoyed it but thought wordy for what was happening. Cute and intense parts.
The writing odd and quirky as Skyla is. The story has some main stream mixed with the fantasy. Definitely a slow burn and heavy drama. She's a bit no nonsense bordering on bossy, which he seems to be into very much. Though heavy it was also cute/sweet in parts.
Religion. Science and the mind of Skyla Gray enjoy
So this... is a bit of a story. I enjoyed it but thought wordy for what was happening. Cute and intense parts.
The writing odd and quirky as Skyla is. The story has some main stream mixed with the fantasy. Definitely a slow burn and heavy drama. She's a bit no nonsense bordering on bossy, which he seems to be into very much. Though heavy it was also cute/sweet in parts.
Religion. Science and the mind of Skyla Gray enjoy
May 5, 2026
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC!
Additional kudos very much given for having the FMC be dominant, it’s such a nice change from the standard setup. The plot is straightforward and easy to follow along with no major surprises or twists, the same with the characters. I am curious about the other books in the series as there were hints at the previous volumes but this book functions well as a stand-alone as well.
Additional kudos very much given for having the FMC be dominant, it’s such a nice change from the standard setup. The plot is straightforward and easy to follow along with no major surprises or twists, the same with the characters. I am curious about the other books in the series as there were hints at the previous volumes but this book functions well as a stand-alone as well.
May 9, 2026
This was another wild and engaging read that unfolds at a great pace. I loved the symmetry of Willow and Cain being able to hang together with their unique pasts. Of course, he's changing, and she's survived a cult...like I said, unique. Expect to root hard for these complex characters as they navigate danger, self loathing, trauma, healing, compassion and hot romance and work their way to a fab HEA. So good!
May 9, 2026
Slow burn monster romance. I love the trapped research subject trope. Especially in monster and alien romances. This was good. Willow was an interesting character, and Subject X-16 was an intriguing mystery as well. However the ending felt rushed. With details glossed over a bit more than they should have been. It left things feeling a bit incomplete. The epilogue was enjoyable enough, that it did help redeem things a bit though.
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