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Dead.
He's dead.
It echoes in my head like a waking nightmare.
Shadows in Bloom was my fresh start. All the baggage I’ve carried around background noise that feeds the songs we play on stage each night. Sweat-soaked and trauma ridden, we found ourselves in each other’s beds more nights than not.
Blood stains my hands, my cheeks, my clothes.
Hell, it’s probably stained my soul with how tightly I hold his lifeless body to mine.
This isn’t how my story was supposed to go. Our story. The start of the one unbroken thing in my life.
He’s dead.
Legend says there’s a creature in the woods made of bark and vines who preys on the desperate and lonely.
Maybe, just maybe if I lay here long enough the creature will come for me.
Maybe they’ll devour me whole.
Encase me in a cocoon of endless darkness.
I hum into the void.
Fade into the pain until it's all that I am.
Until a voice rasps into my ear,
"Mine, silly human. You've always been mine."
Leech is a full-length MM monster romance centered around grief, healing, and the lengths a manipulative little plant creature will go to to own his favorite human. This novel is part of the Mayhem Manuscripts Cryptids shared world collaboration.
He's dead.
It echoes in my head like a waking nightmare.
Shadows in Bloom was my fresh start. All the baggage I’ve carried around background noise that feeds the songs we play on stage each night. Sweat-soaked and trauma ridden, we found ourselves in each other’s beds more nights than not.
Blood stains my hands, my cheeks, my clothes.
Hell, it’s probably stained my soul with how tightly I hold his lifeless body to mine.
This isn’t how my story was supposed to go. Our story. The start of the one unbroken thing in my life.
He’s dead.
Legend says there’s a creature in the woods made of bark and vines who preys on the desperate and lonely.
Maybe, just maybe if I lay here long enough the creature will come for me.
Maybe they’ll devour me whole.
Encase me in a cocoon of endless darkness.
I hum into the void.
Fade into the pain until it's all that I am.
Until a voice rasps into my ear,
"Mine, silly human. You've always been mine."
Leech is a full-length MM monster romance centered around grief, healing, and the lengths a manipulative little plant creature will go to to own his favorite human. This novel is part of the Mayhem Manuscripts Cryptids shared world collaboration.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 4, 2026
I didn't really like this one honestly. I was confused more than anything.
November 5, 2026
Dark romance with a paranormal/supernatural twist. Blake is a musician and has tragically lost the man he was in love with. (Please read trigger warnings) Somehow he has caught the attention of this tree spirit guy who calls himself Ash and he claims that Blake belongs to him. Now, I really wanted to like this book more but so things just didn't make alot of sense to me. The description of the monster seems cool and the spice was hot but I felt like it was lacking a bit in the romance department. Lots of dubcon which some of was consensual but not all. I feel like I'd have enjoyed it more if the MC wasn't so hung up on his friend who passed away. It was definitely interesting and i"d say more of a horror than a romance personally. The visuals were great and I like how unique the story was. If you have been reading this series I would still recommend this one. Just prepare yourself for the emotional whiplash
Review of advance copy received from Author
Leech is part of the multi author Mayhem Manuscripts Season Two: Cryptids series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. Please check the trigger warnings before you start because this book has some dark topics. This is the story of Blake a human and Ash a monster made of vines and bark. I couldn't put this book down once I started it. I read it in one sitting. Blake has so much trauma that I just wanted to wrap him up and hug him. Ash is not what I expected and I loved that. I loved watching these two build a relationship. I loved that I got both characters points of view. I loved the characters and world building that went into this book. I can't wait to see what Rikki Leighton writes next because I know I will be reading it. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
November 4, 2026
I really wanted to love this book because the cover was gorgeous, but DNF at 30%.
I don't like where the story is going, I don't like the writing style, and I'm not enjoying the interactions between Blake and Ash. I tried to force myself to keep reading, but... honestly, there's just no point.
I don't like where the story is going, I don't like the writing style, and I'm not enjoying the interactions between Blake and Ash. I tried to force myself to keep reading, but... honestly, there's just no point.
Review of advance copy
𝙻𝚎𝚎𝚌𝚑
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4/5 ⭐️
↓↓
This is dark and extremely heavy at times.
Blake has A LOT of trauma and demons he is fighting.
Ash showed his love in a very very unhealthy way but that is all that he knows. He is possessive and obsessive and will do anything he can for his human to stay in his life.
HOLY TOXIC and UNHEALTHY!
This is the kind of love that you know is slowly destroying you as a person but you love the other one so much that you would willingly die a slow toxic death to be with that person.
The way their relationship unfolded was unhealthy but it was interesting at the same time. Their connection was hypnotic and I wanted to learn more about Ash and his creatures background a little more.
This is a first from this author for me but I will definitely be checking out more of their books.
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
🍂 Grumpy Musician
🌸 Sunshine Murder Plant
🍂 Found Family
🌸 Hurt/Comfort
🍂 Angst, Angst, Jealousy
🌸 Music is their love language
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4/5 ⭐️
↓↓
This is dark and extremely heavy at times.
Blake has A LOT of trauma and demons he is fighting.
Ash showed his love in a very very unhealthy way but that is all that he knows. He is possessive and obsessive and will do anything he can for his human to stay in his life.
HOLY TOXIC and UNHEALTHY!
This is the kind of love that you know is slowly destroying you as a person but you love the other one so much that you would willingly die a slow toxic death to be with that person.
The way their relationship unfolded was unhealthy but it was interesting at the same time. Their connection was hypnotic and I wanted to learn more about Ash and his creatures background a little more.
This is a first from this author for me but I will definitely be checking out more of their books.
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
🍂 Grumpy Musician
🌸 Sunshine Murder Plant
🍂 Found Family
🌸 Hurt/Comfort
🍂 Angst, Angst, Jealousy
🌸 Music is their love language
Did Not Finish
November 5, 2026Ugh dnf @ 37%
What's going on? This book was bad. But seriously, bad. Where is the monster? What's going on here? Where is the monster plot?
It is almost 40%!!! ALMOST 40%!!! and the monster just turns into the death love interest of the human hero (or other human form). What's going on here?
The book feels like it is going nowhere. Feels like the author wrote the book at the last minute and put anything down to give the manuscript.
I was so excited about this one but it's completely dissapointing.
I'm not rating the book, of course. But this is sad. I wanted to read this book so much because I love this kind of monsters but ugh.... I'm mad.
Mayhem Manuscripts Season Two: Cryptids Series 😈
🔥 = top read. Perfection.
🖤 Pareidolia 4 ⭐️
🖤 Mortis 5 ⭐️🔥
🖤 Hollow 4 ⭐️
🖤 Tenebrous 5 ⭐️🔥
🖤 Noctis 5 ⭐️🔥
🖤 Solivagant 4 ⭐️
🖤 Feral 2 ⭐️
🖤 Leech nr/dnf
What's going on? This book was bad. But seriously, bad. Where is the monster? What's going on here? Where is the monster plot?
It is almost 40%!!! ALMOST 40%!!! and the monster just turns into the death love interest of the human hero (or other human form). What's going on here?
The book feels like it is going nowhere. Feels like the author wrote the book at the last minute and put anything down to give the manuscript.
I was so excited about this one but it's completely dissapointing.
I'm not rating the book, of course. But this is sad. I wanted to read this book so much because I love this kind of monsters but ugh.... I'm mad.
Mayhem Manuscripts Season Two: Cryptids Series 😈
🔥 = top read. Perfection.
🖤 Pareidolia 4 ⭐️
🖤 Mortis 5 ⭐️🔥
🖤 Hollow 4 ⭐️
🖤 Tenebrous 5 ⭐️🔥
🖤 Noctis 5 ⭐️🔥
🖤 Solivagant 4 ⭐️
🖤 Feral 2 ⭐️
🖤 Leech nr/dnf
Review of advance copy received from Author
Leech by Rikki Leighton 🖤
Well, I wasn't expecting a creature made of bark and vines to steal my heart, but here we are! Leech is one of those wonderfully unusual romances that pulls you in with its darkness, keeps you hooked with its characters and gives you something quite different from your usual MM romance.
Blake's story begins in the most heartbreaking way. He's already carrying so much trauma and baggage and just when he thinks he's found something good, everything falls apart. The grief, the devastation and the sheer desperation running through his story really hit me. You can't help but feel for him, especially when he's left clinging to the one thing he thought would finally make his life feel whole.
And then there's Ash. Our rather unconventional woodland creature, made of bark and vines, with a possessive streak and absolutely no intention of letting his human go. There's something fascinating about him, the contrast between his monstrous appearance and the "human" connection he shares with Blake. He's not your typical romantic hero, and that's precisely what makes him so entertaining.
I loved watching the relationship between Ash and Blake develop. There's an interesting mix of darkness, vulnerability, possessiveness and tenderness, with the supernatural elements adding another layer to an already emotional story. Their connection feels unusual in the best possible way and I found myself wanting to know more about Ash and the creature lurking in those woods.
Rikki Leighton has created a story that manages to combine heartbreak, monster romance, atmosphere and emotion into something genuinely memorable. It's dark, a little weird, wonderfully imaginative and packed with the kind of characters who stay with you after you've finished reading.
And honestly, after everything Blake has been through, I'm very happy that Ash decided this particular human was his.
"Mine, silly human. You've always been mine."
Well, Ash, I think we've established that. And I'm absolutely here for it! 🖤
Well, I wasn't expecting a creature made of bark and vines to steal my heart, but here we are! Leech is one of those wonderfully unusual romances that pulls you in with its darkness, keeps you hooked with its characters and gives you something quite different from your usual MM romance.
Blake's story begins in the most heartbreaking way. He's already carrying so much trauma and baggage and just when he thinks he's found something good, everything falls apart. The grief, the devastation and the sheer desperation running through his story really hit me. You can't help but feel for him, especially when he's left clinging to the one thing he thought would finally make his life feel whole.
And then there's Ash. Our rather unconventional woodland creature, made of bark and vines, with a possessive streak and absolutely no intention of letting his human go. There's something fascinating about him, the contrast between his monstrous appearance and the "human" connection he shares with Blake. He's not your typical romantic hero, and that's precisely what makes him so entertaining.
I loved watching the relationship between Ash and Blake develop. There's an interesting mix of darkness, vulnerability, possessiveness and tenderness, with the supernatural elements adding another layer to an already emotional story. Their connection feels unusual in the best possible way and I found myself wanting to know more about Ash and the creature lurking in those woods.
Rikki Leighton has created a story that manages to combine heartbreak, monster romance, atmosphere and emotion into something genuinely memorable. It's dark, a little weird, wonderfully imaginative and packed with the kind of characters who stay with you after you've finished reading.
And honestly, after everything Blake has been through, I'm very happy that Ash decided this particular human was his.
"Mine, silly human. You've always been mine."
Well, Ash, I think we've established that. And I'm absolutely here for it! 🖤
November 4, 2026
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (4.2)
⊹ | 𝙇𝙚𝙚𝙘𝙝 by Rikki Leighton is an emotional M/M monster romance. It is part of the 𝘔𝘢𝘺𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘵𝘴 𝘚𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘛𝘸𝘰: 𝘊𝘳𝘺𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘥𝘴 series and follows Blake and Ash. This story explores themes that some readers might find triggering.
Wow, this book was actually way more emotional and sad than I expected. Blake and Ash's story unfolded in a way that was so different from usual, and I couldn't help but be curious to see where they'd end up. From beginning to end, I ate this book up.
The magic building in this was really fun, and I thought Ash's role in the forest was really interesting but also a bit sad. It was crazy learning and understanding how the magic affected Oliver. I swear my heart was aching for Blake almost the entire book. I can't wait to see more of him and Ash in Lovesick.
Overall, if you're looking for an emotional M/M monster romance with an intriguing storyline, then I definitely recommend this book. Ash and Blake were complicated, but they were so cute. I'm curious to learn more about Mace, to understand him better, and to see his relationship with Kole.
— 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒃𝒚 𝑷.𝑹.
⊹ | 𝙇𝙚𝙚𝙘𝙝 by Rikki Leighton is an emotional M/M monster romance. It is part of the 𝘔𝘢𝘺𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘵𝘴 𝘚𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘛𝘸𝘰: 𝘊𝘳𝘺𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘥𝘴 series and follows Blake and Ash. This story explores themes that some readers might find triggering.
Wow, this book was actually way more emotional and sad than I expected. Blake and Ash's story unfolded in a way that was so different from usual, and I couldn't help but be curious to see where they'd end up. From beginning to end, I ate this book up.
The magic building in this was really fun, and I thought Ash's role in the forest was really interesting but also a bit sad. It was crazy learning and understanding how the magic affected Oliver. I swear my heart was aching for Blake almost the entire book. I can't wait to see more of him and Ash in Lovesick.
Overall, if you're looking for an emotional M/M monster romance with an intriguing storyline, then I definitely recommend this book. Ash and Blake were complicated, but they were so cute. I'm curious to learn more about Mace, to understand him better, and to see his relationship with Kole.
— 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒃𝒚 𝑷.𝑹.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would definitely recommend reading the content warnings beforehand, as this story deals with some very dark themes.
That being said, I did enjoy reading this story even though it covers some very heavy topics.
I haven't read a book before where you get one character's point of view first and then the other. I found it to be an interesting way to experience the story.
This was also my first time reading this author and I would happily read more of their work.
I received this ARC from Author and this is my honest review.
That being said, I did enjoy reading this story even though it covers some very heavy topics.
I haven't read a book before where you get one character's point of view first and then the other. I found it to be an interesting way to experience the story.
This was also my first time reading this author and I would happily read more of their work.
I received this ARC from Author and this is my honest review.
November 5, 2026
This book was very interesting and different but not in a bad way!
I really enjoyed the beginning and end, the middle however lost me a few times but it all wrapped up nicely!
This story at its core is about heartbreak, longing, and being lost after a love
Blake’s soul is broken and the only way it was able to heal was from Ash.
If you love stories about heartbreak, broken boys, found family with a little bit of paranormal this one is for you!
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed the beginning and end, the middle however lost me a few times but it all wrapped up nicely!
This story at its core is about heartbreak, longing, and being lost after a love
Blake’s soul is broken and the only way it was able to heal was from Ash.
If you love stories about heartbreak, broken boys, found family with a little bit of paranormal this one is for you!
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 7, 2026
This is a story about Blake and Ash
M/M
Monster/Human
This story started off strong but I got 30% into it and it started falling flat for me.
Someone else might enjoy it as I have enjoyed a few of the other ones in this series
Give it a try .
M/M
Monster/Human
This story started off strong but I got 30% into it and it started falling flat for me.
Someone else might enjoy it as I have enjoyed a few of the other ones in this series
Give it a try .
November 4, 2026
I hate when they make the mmc in love with someone else in the other mmcs body its so disrespectful and annoying
November 4, 2026
4.8 ⭐️
An utterly unforgettable, atmospheric, and devastatingly beautiful cryptid romance that will rip your heart out before stitching it back together! Rikki Leighton makes a hauntingly powerful mark with Leech, weaving a dark, heavy, and deeply imaginative monster romance that seamlessly blends raw grief, toxic codependency, and supernatural obsession. Delivering a dual-POV narrative that plunges you headfirst into the mind of a grieving human, this book explores how a love born from complete devastation can somehow become a lifeline.
The story opens in the crushing aftermath of a nightmare for Blake, a sweat-soaked, trauma-ridden band member of Shadows in Bloom. Just when he thought he had finally built an unbroken life with the man he loved, tragedy strikes, leaving Blake covered in blood and drowning in unbearable grief, addiction, and despair. Wishing only to be swallowed whole by the endless darkness, Blake surrenders to the legend of the woods, an ancient cryptid made of bark, vines, and petals known to prey on the lonely. Enter Ash: the woodland tree spirit who rasps into the void that Blake has always belonged to him. As Ash steps out of the shadows with an over-the-top possessive streak and zero regard for human morality, a dangerous, intense, and deeply healing bond begins to form between a broken man with nothing left to lose and a terrifying monster determined to make him his.
Ash is a completely captivating monster! Made of petaled vines, bark, and sunshine-scented magic, he strikes the perfect contrast between terrifying woodland cryptid and an endearingly devoted partner who has an immediate, unyielding obsession with his human. Blake’s emotional journey is written with an immense, visceral heart. Watching him navigate an unbearable loss, battle his coping mechanisms, and slowly learn that loving someone new doesn't mean forgetting the past will leave you tearing up. The connection between Ash and Blake is dark, chaotic, and fiercely protective. Leighton expertly navigates an intense mix of vulnerability, wild possessiveness, and unconventional intimacy as Ash steps in as a caretaker for Blake’s shattered soul.
What really made an impression on me in Leech was how Rikki Leighton approached the use of consensual non-consent (CNC) as a meaningful framework for processing sexual assault trauma. Rather than just using it for heat, the narrative thoughtfully highlights how reclaiming control and agency within a safe, trusted dynamic can serve as a genuinely empowering tool for emotional healing. It felt like such a rare, validating, and empathetic piece of representation that gave Blake's recovery journey so much extra depth. I devoured this book in a single sitting. Blake carries such a heavy load of trauma and heartbreak that there were moments where my heart genuinely hurt for him, especially watching him spiral through his grief and make reckless choices. Ash is an ancient creature with a very gray moral compass, and while his methods of swooping into Blake's life are definitely unconventional and intense, watching him gradually become Blake's safe haven was mesmerizing. Fell completely in love with a creature made of bark, vines, and petals who refused to let his broken human fade into the dark!
Rikki Leighton crafted a story so rich in atmosphere, raw emotional weight, and dark romance that I simply couldn't put it down. If you're looking for a dark, heavy, and uniquely beautiful monster romance packed with found family, unyielding obsession, and a hard-won happy-ever-after, you need to dive into this one immediately!
Instagram: @goodgirlsbookshelf_
Review of advance copy received from Author
***I received a complimentary advance review copy and am leaving a voluntary review***
This book deals with some heavy topics (check the TWs before starting). As such, the story is on the darker and sadder side.
The MCs' relationship was far from happy-go-lucky and there was a LOT of angst, trauma, grief and other heavy emotions that those two (especially Blake) constantly battled with, which were eventually partially replaced by positive emotions. So, in that respect, the story really did put the reader in Blake's mind and let you feel all of the overwhelming emotions crowding his brain and making demands of him, and that was really heartbreaking at times.
This poor boy was already dealing with challenges every day of his life and then to experience something so devastating, which would have been enough to break another person, was really just kicking him while he was already down. So, I suppose he should probably be excused for some of his more reckless choices.
Ash was an enigma. I am torn about how I feel about him. On the one hand, he had the OTT possessive and protective characteristics that I usually enjoy in an MMC, but I don't know if I agree with his method of coming into Blake's life and slowly winning him over (if you can call it that). There were definitely a few questionable instances, but not completely out of character for an ancient cryptid, who is definitely not human.
This combination of "unstable" and "little to no morals" made for a very explosive and intense dynamic between Ash and Blake.
There was also a solid core of chosen family that absolutely had each other's backs and offered safety, support and rescue without ever needing to be asked. This representation was powerful and was responsible for many of the lighter moments in the book.
This book deals with some heavy topics (check the TWs before starting). As such, the story is on the darker and sadder side.
The MCs' relationship was far from happy-go-lucky and there was a LOT of angst, trauma, grief and other heavy emotions that those two (especially Blake) constantly battled with, which were eventually partially replaced by positive emotions. So, in that respect, the story really did put the reader in Blake's mind and let you feel all of the overwhelming emotions crowding his brain and making demands of him, and that was really heartbreaking at times.
This poor boy was already dealing with challenges every day of his life and then to experience something so devastating, which would have been enough to break another person, was really just kicking him while he was already down. So, I suppose he should probably be excused for some of his more reckless choices.
Ash was an enigma. I am torn about how I feel about him. On the one hand, he had the OTT possessive and protective characteristics that I usually enjoy in an MMC, but I don't know if I agree with his method of coming into Blake's life and slowly winning him over (if you can call it that). There were definitely a few questionable instances, but not completely out of character for an ancient cryptid, who is definitely not human.
This combination of "unstable" and "little to no morals" made for a very explosive and intense dynamic between Ash and Blake.
There was also a solid core of chosen family that absolutely had each other's backs and offered safety, support and rescue without ever needing to be asked. This representation was powerful and was responsible for many of the lighter moments in the book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another solid addition to the Mayhem Manuscripts and honestly, I wasn't expecting a plant creature to worm his way into my heart, but here we are! It was such an unique romance with the perfect balance of darkness and sweetness. I found myself captivated from the start.
Blake broke my heart, the grief he was feeling was felt through every page. The pain that man goes through is truly devastating and he struggles throughout. It takes a plant monster to help him start to heal and my goodness does Ash go all in with him.
Ash was such a wonderful monster. He had his darkness and was absolutely obsessed with Blake but you could see him caring in the only way he knew how to. He tries to show his human side and more often than not was in his human form however I loved the moments where Blake embraced his monster form. Can we also take a moment to talk about the intimate scenes, Rikki crafted something so unique and honestly I could read more pages about sex with a plant monster.
The one thing I really loved was watching the relationship between Ash and Blake develop. They come together in a dark period for Blake, we have possessive, obsessive but also vulnerability and romance. They worked in a way that really shouldn't have and I want more of them!
Rikki has created a story that combins heartbreak, grief, monster romance, and emotion into something genuinely unique. I will be thinking of this for a long time!
Blake broke my heart, the grief he was feeling was felt through every page. The pain that man goes through is truly devastating and he struggles throughout. It takes a plant monster to help him start to heal and my goodness does Ash go all in with him.
Ash was such a wonderful monster. He had his darkness and was absolutely obsessed with Blake but you could see him caring in the only way he knew how to. He tries to show his human side and more often than not was in his human form however I loved the moments where Blake embraced his monster form. Can we also take a moment to talk about the intimate scenes, Rikki crafted something so unique and honestly I could read more pages about sex with a plant monster.
The one thing I really loved was watching the relationship between Ash and Blake develop. They come together in a dark period for Blake, we have possessive, obsessive but also vulnerability and romance. They worked in a way that really shouldn't have and I want more of them!
Rikki has created a story that combins heartbreak, grief, monster romance, and emotion into something genuinely unique. I will be thinking of this for a long time!
November 7, 2026
I'm rounding up to a four because there were certain aspects of this book that I enjoyed. Starting with the concept of a Leech, which is what Ash is. He's a forest creatures that leeches energy from things in the surrounding forest, while also possessing the ability to change forms. I thought his character was really unique and I liked that there were more things to learn and discover about him as the story went on.
I also loved the found family component that's so brightly featured in this story. Even when things are falling apart, even when people are self destructing, they still show up for each other and are there for one another. That's something I found to be really beautiful.
You may be wondering why I mentioned I was rounding up in my rating, and that's simply because this didn't really feel like a romance to me. I didn't really pick up on a connection between the two MC's other than the add1ct1on that formed between them. Don't get me wrong, I understand dark romances and how they aren't your "conventional" romances, and I was prepared for that. I was just hoping that there would be more actual feelings at play rather than lust being the primary focus of their "relationship. "
I am very curious about a certain incubus and their new bandmate who can't sleep though, I'm looking forward to their book!
I also loved the found family component that's so brightly featured in this story. Even when things are falling apart, even when people are self destructing, they still show up for each other and are there for one another. That's something I found to be really beautiful.
You may be wondering why I mentioned I was rounding up in my rating, and that's simply because this didn't really feel like a romance to me. I didn't really pick up on a connection between the two MC's other than the add1ct1on that formed between them. Don't get me wrong, I understand dark romances and how they aren't your "conventional" romances, and I was prepared for that. I was just hoping that there would be more actual feelings at play rather than lust being the primary focus of their "relationship. "
I am very curious about a certain incubus and their new bandmate who can't sleep though, I'm looking forward to their book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First... make sure you read the warnings at the beginning if you have any triggers because this book definitely deals with some dark topics. It can be hard to read for some.
“I am yours just as you are mine, forevermore, and for all time.”
Okay. Well... I'm still sitting with how I feel about this book. I enjoyed it, but I will say that it was a bit confusing at the beginning. It had me going back and forth on wondering if I was reading about flashbacks or if it was happening in real time. Then, after you realize, you don't find out what actually happened to Oliver until a little later.
I loved the found family that they have. They all were going through their own dark things, but were always there for each other.
Blake is grumpy and isn't the mushy type. Ash was interesting. He definitely went between being tough and then loving. Their relationship was pretty toxic. Not going to lie. My heart broke for Blake and the pain he was going through from such a huge loss. He was one hundred percent lost and it was so sad to read. Ash loves Blake so much and tries to love and support him the only way that he knows how.
“Because, as you humans say, I love you. If I must ruin you to heal you, then I will happily be your destruction.”
“I am yours just as you are mine, forevermore, and for all time.”
Okay. Well... I'm still sitting with how I feel about this book. I enjoyed it, but I will say that it was a bit confusing at the beginning. It had me going back and forth on wondering if I was reading about flashbacks or if it was happening in real time. Then, after you realize, you don't find out what actually happened to Oliver until a little later.
I loved the found family that they have. They all were going through their own dark things, but were always there for each other.
Blake is grumpy and isn't the mushy type. Ash was interesting. He definitely went between being tough and then loving. Their relationship was pretty toxic. Not going to lie. My heart broke for Blake and the pain he was going through from such a huge loss. He was one hundred percent lost and it was so sad to read. Ash loves Blake so much and tries to love and support him the only way that he knows how.
“Because, as you humans say, I love you. If I must ruin you to heal you, then I will happily be your destruction.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a new to me author and their writing in this book was so heartbreaking but also so beautiful. Please check your TW/CW!
Grief is so hard to move on from it becomes part of your life. The way Blake is grieving is so relatable. He’s spiraling, depression anxiety addiction to numb his pain. Until Ollie appears in his dreams. But is it a dream? Then there’s Ash who’s know as a monster in camp fire stories. But once you read and learn what he truly is, he’s so endearing. Yes he’s jealous a bit possessive but is drawn to Blake. I what starts out as imposter syndrome becomes something more. He finally lets Blake see his true form. Which is beautiful petals vines bark all over Sarah and sunshine. What broke me was the final chapter. Finding out what happened to Oliver and Blake saying his final goodbye. Whoever Oraco is I want to strangle that one! What he did to Blake was horrible. But overall though this book deal with heavy content it’s about healing, learning to keep the love of your life still in your heart and open up to another one. I’m not excited to read about mace& koles story.
Blake and Ash do have their HEA.
Grief is so hard to move on from it becomes part of your life. The way Blake is grieving is so relatable. He’s spiraling, depression anxiety addiction to numb his pain. Until Ollie appears in his dreams. But is it a dream? Then there’s Ash who’s know as a monster in camp fire stories. But once you read and learn what he truly is, he’s so endearing. Yes he’s jealous a bit possessive but is drawn to Blake. I what starts out as imposter syndrome becomes something more. He finally lets Blake see his true form. Which is beautiful petals vines bark all over Sarah and sunshine. What broke me was the final chapter. Finding out what happened to Oliver and Blake saying his final goodbye. Whoever Oraco is I want to strangle that one! What he did to Blake was horrible. But overall though this book deal with heavy content it’s about healing, learning to keep the love of your life still in your heart and open up to another one. I’m not excited to read about mace& koles story.
Blake and Ash do have their HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a enjoyable read
Dead.
He's dead.
It echoes in my head like a waking nightmare.
Shadows in Bloom was my fresh start. All the baggage I’ve carried around background noise that feeds the songs we play on stage each night. Sweat-soaked and trauma-ridden, we found ourselves in each other’s beds more nights than not.
He’s dead.
Legend says there’s a creature in the woods made of bark and vines who preys on the desperate and lonely.
Maybe, just maybe if I lay here long enough the creature will come for me.
"Mine, silly human. You've always been mine."
Leech is a full-length MM monster romance centered around grief, healing, and the lengths a manipulative little plant creature will go to to own his favorite human. This novel is part of the Mayhem Manuscripts Cryptids shared world collaboration.
Dead.
He's dead.
It echoes in my head like a waking nightmare.
Shadows in Bloom was my fresh start. All the baggage I’ve carried around background noise that feeds the songs we play on stage each night. Sweat-soaked and trauma-ridden, we found ourselves in each other’s beds more nights than not.
He’s dead.
Legend says there’s a creature in the woods made of bark and vines who preys on the desperate and lonely.
Maybe, just maybe if I lay here long enough the creature will come for me.
"Mine, silly human. You've always been mine."
Leech is a full-length MM monster romance centered around grief, healing, and the lengths a manipulative little plant creature will go to to own his favorite human. This novel is part of the Mayhem Manuscripts Cryptids shared world collaboration.
November 6, 2026
I’m actually obsessed with the way grief is the main narrative of this entire book. In so many books, that’s the one thing where the next MC is introduced where grief feelings falls to the wayside. But Rikki takes on such a different approach to it. Instead of forgetting about it, they lean into it. And the way the Leech helps and interacts with their human is so new to me as a reader. I was hooked. There are fun surprises along the way. And some that made me want to “frow up.” 🥹😩😭😭😭 I went through the wringer with this. Right up until the very end. Some hold me?
November 5, 2026
Fun, intense and spicy!
Blake and Ash were such an interesting couple, this was a very unique MM monster X human romance. Ash was possessive, jealous and all consuming. Blake was in the deepest parts of his grief and using bad outlets, the two of them were passionate, intense and so deeply obsessed with the need for each other. Ash was also a super unique monster snd i really loved that. This was a great addition to this series!
Blake and Ash were such an interesting couple, this was a very unique MM monster X human romance. Ash was possessive, jealous and all consuming. Blake was in the deepest parts of his grief and using bad outlets, the two of them were passionate, intense and so deeply obsessed with the need for each other. Ash was also a super unique monster snd i really loved that. This was a great addition to this series!
November 5, 2026
When Blakes bf/love takes his own life, part of his soul is absorbed by a tree spirit thingy who appears sometimes as Ollie, sometimes as Ash. Ash claims Blake for himself in a symbiotic relationship with both getting something they need. Blake an escape from his pain and Ash feeding on his emotions. It's a creepy monster story with a human and a monster both needing each other until it's love. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
November 7, 2026
This was the best one yet in this collection! My lanta! I was soooo freaking hooked! This is not your typical monster lover romance! This isn't even a typical romance! This is unhealthy and obsessive and possessive and toxic as alllll hell and I freaking loved it!
Read the TWs for this one because there are many! The story deals with so much grief and loss and the pain of that! It also has many other TWs so if you have any, double check!
Read the TWs for this one because there are many! The story deals with so much grief and loss and the pain of that! It also has many other TWs so if you have any, double check!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I was hooked from the very beginning. I devoured this book. Once I started I did not put it down because I had to know what happened next. It was a brutal, hard fought HEA. It is one of those loves where ya know it probably isn’t the healthiest but you are still gonna be invested in that HEA! I really enjoyed this one and I highly recommend that everyone else give it a shot as well!
November 4, 2026
Absolutely amazing book. This is part of the cryptid manuscripts: season 2.
This is a new author to me and I've read all of them for season 2 and this is actually amazing. Not what I thought it would be but it was so like addicting
Absolutely love the monster romances can't get away from them I absolutely love every single bit of them and I think that they're amazing.
This is a new author to me and I've read all of them for season 2 and this is actually amazing. Not what I thought it would be but it was so like addicting
Absolutely love the monster romances can't get away from them I absolutely love every single bit of them and I think that they're amazing.
November 5, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
I think I was teary-eyed the entire time I was reading the book. The book carries this melancholy/ bittersweetness feeling as you read it especially knowing who Oliver was to Blake. But getting to know Ash and his love for Blake made it so sweet and comforting to see him heal from his pain.
I think I was teary-eyed the entire time I was reading the book. The book carries this melancholy/ bittersweetness feeling as you read it especially knowing who Oliver was to Blake. But getting to know Ash and his love for Blake made it so sweet and comforting to see him heal from his pain.
November 6, 2026
The writing was a little confusing, but once I caught on I caught on and really enjoyed the book. I really liked the premise of the Leech leeching from Ollie and becoming obsessed with Blake. One thing that made me pause was all the dirty talk from the Leech, which would have been fine in any other book but seemed out of place in this one. Enjoyable book!
Review of advance copy
Blake + Ash
-mm monster romance
-grumpy musician x sunshine murder plant
-angsty jealousy
-hurt/comfort
-found family
this was so different than any other monster romance i've experienced & i loved the whole concept so much!
-mm monster romance
-grumpy musician x sunshine murder plant
-angsty jealousy
-hurt/comfort
-found family
this was so different than any other monster romance i've experienced & i loved the whole concept so much!
November 4, 2026
While there was some intense story, great found family and an interesting story, I found this one not for me. The family lot jumped around a lot and unfortunately made the reading of it not very smooth which took my enjoyment of it down.
November 4, 2026
Leech is book eight of the Mayhem Manuscripts Season Two: Cryptids Series.
Blake and Ash have a very interesting relationship together. It was most definitely toxic, but the underlying did show some deep love. There are some dark moments throughout the story, so reader beware.
Blake and Ash have a very interesting relationship together. It was most definitely toxic, but the underlying did show some deep love. There are some dark moments throughout the story, so reader beware.
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