The Monster Ball Year 3

by Heather Hildenbrand, Bam Shepherd, S.J. West

A Paranormal Romance Anthology

From 12 Award-Winning, USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHORS Comes A Night You'll Never Forget.

It's that time again! The Monster community is abuzz with whispers of the most anticipated party of the year. This deliciously exclusive event has tongues wagging even amongst the who's who of the monster community. It will once again be held at an undisclosed location on All Hallows Eve.

Don't worry all you underprivileged socialites, The Monster Ball isn't just for vampires, witches, and werewolves. Other creatures of the night have as much of a chance to attend. Watch for your ticket but not in the mail. The silvery slip of parchment is said to appear in your hand by the light of the moon.

If you find yourself a fortunate recipient best to keep it to yourself. There are some who would kill for the chance to attend. Because as every good monster knows... what happens at the ball, stays at the ball.

xoxo, Elvira

Fans of dark fantasy, paranormal intrigue, and romance will devour this story.

Year 3 includes an all-new location & theme, new bartenders, and even a few familiar faces! Don't wait! 1-click now and be sure to reserve your "ticket" to the ball!

Genres: Anthologies

528 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 13, 2020

About the author

Heather Hildenbrand lives in coastal Virginia where she writes paranormal and fantasy romance with strong-willed heroines and dark, grumpy heroes who’ll burn the world down for their mate. Her most frequent hobbies are cuddling with her giant goldendoodles, riding country roads on the back of her husband’s motorcycle, and avoiding killer slugs.

You can find out more about Heather and her books at heatherhildenbrand.com.

Reviews

[Mikky]

Monster Ball Year 2 ended up as a DNF. I'm hoping Year 3 will be different because I did enjoy Year 1. Regardless I'm excited to get into Year 3! It'll be the same as the last few books: As I go through the stories I'll rate and review them. Be warned there may be quite a few DNF's and those won't get a rating. I'll also be marking the authors of each story with a spoiler tag because this novel was intended to be a blind release. P.S. Getting through this novel will probably take a while so please bear with me!

1. A Tail Of Another Kind By Everly Frost & Heather Renee- 4 Stars
Date Finished: Oct. 16 2020

I really enjoyed this story! It was a fun and quick paranormal rom-com (to a violent degree). The author had me at kitsune if I'm being honest. Ever since I read the Red Winter Trilogy By Annette Marie I've been enamored with kitsunes! I liked the creative direction the author took it in and I would love to see this couple get a happy ending in a future novel.

2. Ghosted By Kinrade Karpov & Evan Gaustad- 3 Stars
Date Finished: Oct. 17 2020

This story was mostly meh. It was by no means bad but it didn't blow me away either. It was very straight forward and the ending could be seen coming from a mile away. I think I expected more of a background plot being woven within this story to leave space for an open ending. An open ending request coming from me (someone who abhors open ending in stories) is wild, I know just bear with me for a second. I've learned to expect spinoffs from the stories present in The Monster Ball anthologies and even if they don't have them it actually makes the story better considering how short they are and because it makes me wonder about all the what-ifs later on.

3. Second Chances By S. J. West- 3 Stars
Date Finished: Oct. 19 2020

This is why I dislike starting stories completely blind. Had I know this would be a Camelot/King Arthur type of story I would have skipped it altogether because it isn't what I'm interested in reading. To be honest, I've never read the legend and it isn't something that I'm looking to rectify anytime soon. So this story ended up being a complete dud for me. Don't get me wrong! It started off great, the writing is so good and it captured me from the beginning. After everything was revealed it left me feeling meh. Overall, this story had great characters, didn't feel rushed but due to the revelation was not for me.

4. Reaping Revenge By Stacey Rourke- DNF

5. Red Sea By Nikki Jefford- DNF

6. Fated foes By Jessica Wayne-

7. Djinn And Bear It By Cameo Renae-

8. Moon Kissed By Tish Thawer-

9. The Girl Who Never Cried By Bam Shepherd & Heather Hildenbrand-

[Mona Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to attend

This year's Monster Ball is being held at an amazing location and an epic site that you will not soon forget. As always the Proprietor has quite the mix of guests. Will everyone find what they are looking for this year?

A Tail of Another Kind is a story about finding exactly what you are looking for when and where you least expect it.

Ghosted- In this one AJ who fell in love with her one true love Leo, finally gets the chance to spend time with him in person. For just one night. Will it be enough? Or will true love find a way.

Second Chances- Eve has always wanted to know more about her father and this is the night she is going to get her answers. What she discovers is more than she ever thought. And more than she ever dreamed she needed.

Moon Kissed- one of my favorites, Sarah spend her life watching over her true love Endy gladly just so she can be by his side. She makes a deal with the Proprietor for just one night with her true love.

The Girl Who Never Cried- my favorite couple is at it again. They are invited to the ball on special assignment for the Proprietor, plus Talia may have a secret or two that she needs to share with her hubby and what better place than the Ball to share it.
Note from the Proprietor she says that this is her last ball, I myself am hoping it's not... but regardless I myself have enjoyed the ride.

[Cindy Fong · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Monster Ball - the most coveted supernatural event and whose participants are chosen by the Proprietor herself. The tickets are sent to the chosen on moonbeams and are transported to and from the event the same way. The stories and paranormal type vary but constant threads of characters, descriptions and love flow in and out of every story. From the bars to the bartenders, the rooms and the entertainment, the Proprietor has outdone herself. The range of authors makes this an outstanding compilation. I have read some of the authors before and a bunch are new to me.


A Tail of Another Kind
Olivia, a Kitsune is first up and she is ill prepared for a ball, but with a little magic and a few placed words, it looks like her fate is to find love and acceptance. The connection she has with Julian is instant and they find they were destined to meet at the ball.

Ghosted
AJ, a Nymph, makes a desperate wish under the moonlight to be reunited with Leo who died long ago. That same moonlight delivers an invitation that will forever change both of them. As Leo goes from apparition to flesh. They find that their wishes can come true. This one is swoony.

Second Chances
Eve was raised by a single mother and has a unique ability to read people’s auras and can distinguish between good and evil. When she is invited to the ball, she hopes to get information on her father. No only does she get her information, she finds that she is promised to someone and that history as we know it is wrong. Cute story.

Reaping Revenge
I was excited to read this story and I wasn’t ready for the twist. Nyx is a reaper but after her last reap and she found a brutal deception the Ball wasn’t where she wanted to be but someone had other plans. This was a fun twist as really the main character isn’t Nyx but her sidekick cat who for one night gets to be human. This was more a story of friendship love.This story made me giggle as did the references to a particular scene that appear in some of other stories.

Fated Foes
Willa, werewolf royalty being forced against her will to be wed to evil. Jack is a Hunter who seeks to avenge the death of his once love. The Ball allows Willa to escape her fate and she plans to make the most of her one night. Jack isn’t clear on why he received an invitation but one look at Willa and he was glad he did. Outside of the Ball they will have a lot of foes who won’t want them together, but the heart wants who it wants.

Djinn and Bear It
Zahrah is at the end of her rope. 50 years of freedom are about to end and as she contemplates ending her life an invitation appears in the moonlight. She decides to take this opportunity to enjoy the last dredges of her freedom but the tall man with the red eyes has his heart set on not giving her the opportunity to say no. Ethon is the Prince of the Dark but is drawn to Zahrah's plight as much as her beauty. Can they agree to be friends forever?

Moon Kissed
This was one of my favorites. Who can deny lifelong devoted love? Everyday for an eternity Sarah watches over her love Endy. Her wish as she attends the Ball is for them to be together even if only for one night. This is a couple you cannot help but cheer for. Sigh...

The Girl Who Never Cried
Supernatural married detectives, Talia and Lynch are invited because the Proprietor (Talia’s longtime friend) needs their help to locate a man. These two characters are a treat. Lynch is all about the party. Talia is all about work and has a secret. Together the two get in the most trouble on board and wrap up the end of the Ball.

Fantastic, sweet, sexy, swoony stories. Hot, fun and hilarious characters that make me want to read all of the author’s back/future work to get more glimpses into these characters. I hope this isn’t the end of the Monster Ball series.

[Dayzee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Baaaaaaack! And this time.. even the gods come to play 😈🌙 🌞❤️ Amazing Anthology!!! Must read!

- A tail of another kind 🦊
Loved it! This had a cool Kitsune story with finding love, self love and acceptance. Two underdogs Kitsunis trying to get their tails only to discover so much more. Short, steamy and Romantic! I hope they expand it and continue this because it was a favorite! #StrangersToLovers#ItwasMeantToBe

- Fated Foes
Loved it hardcore!! ❤️🐺The hunter and the Wolf! The stars were in their favor tonight and it was fun, swoon worthy and sexy!!!! did i say sexy? i meant its on fire 🔥👌👌 That “car scene” 😈🥵!!!! #Titanic#Epic#JackJokeswereOnPoint#illNeverLetYougoJack

- Reaping Revenge 👯‍♀️
besties!! It’s hilarious!! I laugh out loud so many times i kept re-reading it over and over! The beginning is the best! Its a friendship story where a cat aka a freaking goddess gets to transform to her actual human body only for the night and gets to spend quality time with her grumpy roommate the reaper who is not aware of her cat 😅. The cat is on a mission!! It involves revenge and a sexy mouse. So is the Reaper...you know what they say, Revenge always brings friends closer! 😂 LOVED IT!!! #friendshipGoals#Besties#sexytalkswithAmouse🤣

- Moon Kissed 🌙
Loved it!!!! This one had a sleeping prince /eternal love vibes!! Its the moon goddess herself, she makes an appearance and you are gonna love it!!! Another favorite of mine! ✨ #sailormoonvibes#IneedMore#Swoons#Prince Endymion🌹

- Djinn and Bear it
Awwwww! It had that “tragic romance vibes” early to then “maybe-possibly-could be” future romance! It was funny and a little bit of steam! Finding a hellish prince who makes a devilish deal was the best idea ever 😈

- Ghosted
A water Nymph in love with a Ghost! It started a little slow but then it slowly picked up. I loved the end!!! 👻

- Red Sea
Agents colleagues working together and the attraction is hot and sizzle! ❤️

- The Girl Who Never Cried
Lynch and Talia are hilarious! 😅 They embarked on an important task to find a certain someone but all you get is crazy shenanigans that make you snort! its a memorable night!

- Second Chances
This was a unique story and do i dare say Merlin was involved!? yea that merlin ... the one and only! Lets just say Camelot, Author, and the whole gang made it to the monster ball ...and they want their own story! 😅

-A note from The Proprietor

Theres a farewell note at the end of the anthology. It sounds like this is the last ball 😭It has been a fun ride and each year this party brought different monsters looking for Love. It gives closure, last minute giggles and tears to our wonderful Host and her beloved staff!! Loved it 💜

[Jeannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Monster Ball Anthology is without a doubt my favorite anthology. I love the stories and the set up and how they all work together. It’s amazing how the different authors work together and have their characters entwine in their stories. In year three there are more supernaturals and more of the awesome amazing bartenders. No worries, similar bartenders are there as well. The set up and location of this year’s ball is beautiful and magical. The stories were so emotional and amazing as well.
Story One: “A Tail of Another Kind”: A great story of finding oneself. Liv, a Kitsune, is running out of time to collect the rest of her tails. If she misses the timeline, she turns human and loses her powers. With an invitation to the Monster Ball anything can happen. The author or authors does a great job with Liv’s story. She gains confidence and self-worth. Liv and Julian have some great chemistry too, with adds to this story.
Story Two: “Ghosted”: This was a beautiful and emotional love story. So many emotions. The author/s had me at the end of my seat waiting to se how this would end. AJ and Leo’s chemistry as very well written and spot on.
Story Three: “Second Chance”: Eve has quite the adventure the Monster Ball. This story has a great twist of a classic story. It is well written and captures your attention. I don’t want to say too much and spoiler the adventure she has. I will say is you don’t want to miss this one.
Story Four: “Reaping Revenge”: Full of feline sass, this story was fun to read. A cursed Egyptian Goddess of Death, Nephtys, is cursed as cat except for one evening, All Hallows Eve. Along side her reaper roommate/cat carer, Nyx she seeks her revenge at the ball. I love the dynamic between Nephtys and Nyx. The growth of characters throughout this story was a joy to read.
Story Five: “Red Sea”: Oh, Dante and Noel. I loved this story, especially since I know these characters from another series by the author. They have some great HOT chemistry. I love how the author wrote from Dante’s POV and how he had no idea about the additional supernaturals beyond the world of vampires. Oh, how that made the Monster Ball fun for him. This was a fun and really HOT story.
Story Six: “Fated Foes”: This is a beautiful love story between two natural born enemies. Both of their kind kills the other and has for generations. Willa and Jack ooze chemistry from the get-go and gets hotter throughout the story. It was a very romantic story as well. Full of emotions. I hope their story continues beyond the Monster Ball.
Story Seven: “Djinn and Bear It”: Another great story of growth. Zahrah is a Djinn that is broken emotionally. Through her Monster Ball experience and a new friendship with Ethon, she begins to heal and accept what her life and fate is. A very beautifully written story.
Story Eight: “Moon Kissed”: Oh, what a story! (Hand on heart). So, captivating. A powerful woman, Sarah/Selene has finally gotten the chance to attend the Monster Ball. And wow what an evening she will have. Selene and Endy have quite the passionate connection. Another beautiful, well written story.
Story Nine: “The Girl Who Never Cried”: Awww, Talia and Lynch!! Wonderful characters from another series. It was a joy to read this story. The have so much fun chemistry and plenty of humor in their relationship. This story was pleasantly surprising, but I don’t want to spoil so you’ll just have to read it. While on an important mission they two of them have quite the fun at the Monster Ball.
Another amazing year at the Monster Ball. The note from the Proprietor was full of emotions and a little bit of sadness. I love how much she; the Proprietor was more involved and was written in many of the stories. I felt like each year of the Monster Ball we got to see her more and learn more about her. She is always so mysterious. This is really such a treat for the reader and I highly recommend this anthology.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great year for this anthology, definitely keeps the same feel as the previous 2 years, and is not like any other anthology out there. A few of them are definitely something the authors will be known for, too (in a good way)!

Fated Foes - classic Hunter versus Werewolf type of story with a twist in the story with a nice -happy for now- ending.

Reaping Revenge - this was a unique story, I wasn’t sure what I expected or how it would play out, but it was interesting, but no real solid ending or love story which was a bit disappointing.

Second Chances - this was a creative twist on a classic tale, did not see it coming as that sort of twist on that tale until 2/3rds the way thru, but liked it & the sort of HEA ending.

Ghosted - interesting story, kind of sweet, odd pairing (water nymph & ghost) that I never would have thought of, that worked, with a twist nice HEA at the end.

The Girl Who Never Cried- awe come on, the title is a dead giveaway of what authors wrote this & the series it springs from, you will love a glimpse into this couples’ life & to see their HEA years later! My favorite story of the Anthology.

Red Sea - this story is definitely a snippet from another series, that if you’ve read it, you’ll know immediately who the secondary characters are. It’s nice to get to see these characters again & have a small dip back into that world -but at The Monster Ball.

Tail of Another Kind- Interesting take on the mysterious Kitsune type of creatures/shifters (?). This held my attention, and had a nice HEA for the couple.

Djinn and Bear It - a different sort of story, that I hadn't expected. It was sweet with a lot of melancholy tones to it.

Moon Kissed - I enjoyed this story, was surprised by the back story for it & the secondary characters involved. It was a really good addition to TMB!

[Heather Schles · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read, at first I thought Ill just read 4 or 5 of the stories. I am so so glad I changed my mind and read them all, each one made the story Line better and better!! Some of favorites reads though were, Fated Foe, Moon kissed and A Tail of another kind!! So many yummy men and lovin and sexy times, might just have to reread some or all of them again!! Definitely will be recommending this!!

[Tabi Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Ball!! Where was my ticket???

Overall I have truly loved this collections, but don't tell me we aren't having another adventure next year. I just love the ball and I cannot imagine not having another one. I was happy to see that the proprietor actually gets a little story in this one..Beautiful

Tail of Another Kind...
5 out of 5...
Very beautiful story, it had me pulled in following very closely. It was lovely to see how these two characters needed each other to truly find what they were missing. It seems like our soul mate does that for us.

Ghosted
5 out of 5...
Geez, talk about needing a whole box of Kleenex to get thru this story. It was suching a touching story and if you didn't tear up at least once, you must not be paying attention. Just loved it.

Second Chances
5 out of 5..
That was a few cute and interesting take on Merlin and Camelot and I truly loved the story behind it. I love these ball stories, but sometimes I always want a little more.

Reaping Revenge
5 out of 5
Least someone got some action tonight, it was rather cute when you think about it cat and mouse...just imagine. They always say that anything can happen at the ball, and after this story you can imagine that it is true. Love it

Red Sea
5 out of 5
That was a very interesting story, thought it was a little funny how they thought they were going to get to kill something at the ball. Everyone knows the ball is safe, but hey at least they got some in the end. But I do agree, it's never the end.

Fated Foes
5 out of 5...
I always love these cute stories where two enemies are fated to be together. But then isn't the hunter only enemies to certain people anyway. The evil ones. This is a very exciting story to read and love all the references to the movie, even if that Jack wasn't a real person on that ship.

Djinn and Bear It
5 out of 5...
Actually I loved the makings of this story. Everyone deserves a little bit of happiness after years and years. I can't imagine being forced to grant people wishes all the time. The couple in this story are absolutely perfeCT for each other. As always I want a little more and I want to be his friend too.

Moon Kissed
5 out of 5
That this was the perfect love story from the gods themselves. I always love reading authors take on mythology. This was a very moving story and had me more than once tear up at the thought of two people not together. I don't like broken hearts. Also, love how this adds more to the questions of how the ball happens.

The girl who never cried
4 out of 5...
Honestly I love everything to do with these characters, but I was a little let down by this story. I guess I was kind of hoping they would get to go and have a little fun. Maybe show them enjoying the ship instead of just going to kick some people's butt. I mean I still loved the story, just not what I was expecting.

Until Next Time....Tabi

[Nikki Jefford]

#GotPie 🥧

Dante and Noel from Aurora Sky got to attend this year's Monster Ball in my novella "Red Sea."

I had a blast bringing these characters back, especially as this is the VERY LAST YEAR for The Monster Ball. I've had the Best time participating in all 3 years.

Monster Hugs,
Nikki

[Michelle Fritz PA · Rating 5 out of 5]

What more could you wish for than the biggest party of the year aboard the legendary Ship of Dreams!? For a fangirl this year's anthology is the next level of awesomeness! I loved the descriptions, and the vibe and how each story brought us into that world. The ending with A  brought me to tears and you'll just have to discover why for yourself! This year is filled with poignant and unforgettable moments!! This really is the party of a lifetime!

*I tried my best to avoid spoilers, but this may contain one. Read at your own risk!!!! *

A TAIL OF ANOTHER KIND

Olivia is feisty and fierce and does what she needs to do in order to get by. Some of her choices are morally colored but she isn't the most popular kitsune around.  She needs to gain her marks so that all of her coveted tails will sprout. But earning her marks hasn't come easily to her. Enter the dangerously delicious Julian who absolutely smoulders off of these pages! Hello Mr. Hotness! The ending had me all pouty lipped and feeling all the awwwws! I hope we get more from this unforgettable couple!



GHOSTED

I think I cried my way through this epic love story! The history of Leo's was heartbreakingly sad. This is the love and proof that dreams come true at the Monster Ball. Our water nymph is bored and turning paranormal hasn't been her best year. She meets the love of her life only to watch him slowly fade away before her. But at The Ball everything impossible is possible! I absolutely loved this!!!


SECOND CHANCES

From begging to end, this tale held me captive! There are just not enough stories about this legend.  The surprise of whom Eve's father is and how she's meant to go forward made me want to stand up and do a little jig. I loved all of the careful weaving and how brilliantly it all came together! I'm so excited because I can see one unputdownable series in the future and I can't wait to take that journey with Eve and Lance!

There aren't enough words to express my level of excitement and joy about what I've just read!!


REAPING REVENGE

This was very interesting with a female friendship dymanic that was hilarious with a lot of over sharing. Our kitty is brash, brave and ready to reap her revenge. Our reaper is heartbroken and her personality shows that. Together they are unstoppable. Throw in a mouse and the entertainment rises. I loved the ancient history that these beings descended from it was a fabulous plot point!


RED SEA

All the awwwws! I absolutely love Dante and Noel and this was exactly what I wanted to see happen at The Ball! This was refreshing in Dante’s point of view. I loved his thoughts and that he really went after who he wanted.  I so wanted his eyes opened that more paranormally creatures exists. But maybe one day that will happen. This was one hot read that had me smiling and fanning my cheeks. I loved every second!


FATED FOES

Oh my gosh!! This was epic! I loved Jack and Willa and the references to the Titanic movie and being on the actual ship are fanfreakingtastic! I loved the differences in both of these characters from beginning to end. They are so perfectly matched and ready to take on the world. Plus this totally packed a bunch of heat. I loved this and you will too! This was entertaining and fun and simply fabulous! I'd gladly read more from this ah-mazing author! This left me with all the feels!


DJINN AND BEAR IT

Oh my goodness!! I have such a huge smile from reading this! I've always wanted more regarding Ethon and I've just been given the biggest of surprises and gifts! This was... everything!!! I couldn't stop reading this once I began it. This brings two broken beings together who just needed to find each other. They forge a wonderful friendship that has some benefits that are irrestible! I've been waiting for what seems like forever to see Ethon have a happily ever after! Sigh...


MOON KISSED

Mythology and monsters come together beautifully in this sweet tale! The Proprietor is at work and the gods are at play. I absolutely loved all of the characters that spilled into this story.  That's one of my favorites things about The Ball. The magic and the unexpected paired perfectly together.  This will make you feel all fangirly.  I loved this!


THE GIRL WHO NEVER CRIED

Absolutely perfect! This was one grand adventure but that's exactly what I'm used to with this larger than life couple! I love these two so much that I am not at all ashamed about my snort laughter.  Lynch is such wonderful #BookHusbandMaterial and I love it when he gets excited about party planning.

He's the perfect combination of hero and hotness.  Talia is ah-mazing! Her attitude is stunningly fierce and she is the best bestie you could ever wish for. Together they are unstoppable and very entertaining. Thank you to these authors for giving me more!


The Proprietor's Notes had me crying! A gets her happily ever after but it's the end of The Ball! I couldn't be more sad about this!! I have loved each year of TMB and this year was it's best yet! Thank you to Bam and each of the ah-mazing authors who entertained us and made us dream!

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Monster Ball - the most coveted supernatural event and whose participants are chosen by the Proprietor herself. The tickets are sent to the chosen on moonbeams and are transported to and from the event the same way. The stories and paranormal type vary but constant threads of characters, descriptions and love flow in and out of every story. From the bars to the bartenders, the rooms and the entertainment, the Proprietor has outdone herself. The range of authors makes this an outstanding compilation. I have read some of the authors before and a bunch are new to me.


A Tail of Another Kind
Olivia, a Kitsune is first up and she is ill prepared for a ball, but with a little magic and a few placed words, it looks like her fate is to find love and acceptance. The connection she has with Julian is instant and they find they were destined to meet at the ball.

Ghosted
AJ, a Nymph, makes a desperate wish under the moonlight to be reunited with Leo who died long ago. That same moonlight delivers an invitation that will forever change both of them. As Leo goes from apparition to flesh. They find that their wishes can come true. This one is swoony.

Second Chances
Eve was raised by a single mother and has a unique ability to read people’s auras and can distinguish between good and evil. When she is invited to the ball, she hopes to get information on her father. No only does she get her information, she finds that she is promised to someone and that history as we know it is wrong. Cute story.

Reaping Revenge
I was excited to read this story and I wasn’t ready for the twist. Nyx is a reaper but after her last reap and she found a brutal deception the Ball wasn’t where she wanted to be but someone had other plans. This was a fun twist as really the main character isn’t Nyx but her sidekick cat who for one night gets to be human. This was more a story of friendship love.This story made me giggle as did the references to a particular scene that appear in some of other stories.

Fated Foes
Willa, werewolf royalty being forced against her will to be wed to evil. Jack is a Hunter who seeks to avenge the death of his once love. The Ball allows Willa to escape her fate and she plans to make the most of her one night. Jack isn’t clear on why he received an invitation but one look at Willa and he was glad he did. Outside of the Ball they will have a lot of foes who won’t want them together, but the heart wants who it wants.

Djinn and Bear It
Zahrah is at the end of her rope. 50 years of freedom are about to end and as she contemplates ending her life an invitation appears in the moonlight. She decides to take this opportunity to enjoy the last dredges of her freedom but the tall man with the red eyes has his heart set on not giving her the opportunity to say no. Ethon is the Prince of the Dark but is drawn to Zahrah's plight as much as her beauty. Can they agree to be friends forever?

Moon Kissed
This was one of my favorites. Who can deny lifelong devoted love? Everyday for an eternity Sarah watches over her love Endy. Her wish as she attends the Ball is for them to be together even if only for one night. This is a couple you cannot help but cheer for. Sigh...

The Girl Who Never Cried
Supernatural married detectives, Talia and Lynch are invited because the Proprietor (Talia’s longtime friend) needs their help to locate a man. These two characters are a treat. Lynch is all about the party. Talia is all about work and has a secret. Together the two get in the most trouble on board and wrap up the end of the Ball.

Fantastic, sweet, sexy, swoony stories. Hot, fun and hilarious characters that make me want to read all of the author’s back/future work to get more glimpses into these characters. I hope this isn’t the end of the Monster Ball series.
"

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Monster Ball is a supernatural gathering for one evening of fun where supernaturals are safe to party for one magical night. It’s fun to read through the different attendee stories (each with their own agenda/purpose) and see familiar characters intertwined throughout. The bartenders have specialty drinks, food, music, dancing, and rooms are available for all to partake in as their desires strike. Each story has it’s own flavor, but is mixed well within familiar settings. I absolutely love how the characters interact throughout. You can read each individually, but it’s fun to read them in order and watch as things develop. This book is only available as a compilation for a year before each section returns to the original authors to perhaps be released separately. Really worth it for the compilation and discovering new authors.

A Tail of Another Kind
Olivia was cast out and shunned from her kind at 16 for not meeting expectations. She’s been living on her own trying, hustling strangers to survive. Her best friend believes the Ball is where she needs to be, but is the stranger following her around friend or foe? Will she survive the night or finish the tasks ahead of her before it’s too late?
This one is a fun introduction to the bouncers, bartenders, and general ambiance at the Monster Ball. I want more of this world! What happens after the ball????

Ghosted
AJ has a wounded past, and has fallen in love with a ghost. Her deepest desire is to spend one night with the love of her life. She’s hoping the Monster Ball will bring her everything she desires. Sweet story about love and is it better to enjoy love for one night, than never at all? Love both characters – great love story.

Second Chances
When your Mom is a succubus, and you help her find targets that are not nice men because you can read aura’s, and an absentee father to boot, what do you do when she’s invited to the Ball without you? You search for answers – and sometimes the truth is stranger than your wildest imagination. This one has a fun twist at the end.

Reaping Revenge
We meet Nyx again in this one, but the one who wants a ticket to the ball this year, is … her cat? This is a fun story of 2 women (yep, kitty cat gets to be a woman for one special night each year) who have been hurt in different eras/ways, and maybe the ball is the perfect time for them to sort out their differences.

Fated Foes
Jack and Willa. The Hunter and the shifter. Jack on the Titanic. This leads to some cute dialog exchanges between the two as they decide if born enemies can become more or if they are destined to destroy. Jack lost something very important to the shifter world, and Willa has become trapped in a destiny she does not want. Is the Ball her ticket out?

Djinn and Bear It
As a Djinn, Zahrah is cursed to grant wishes to mostly evil men who manage to call her to them. As she contemplates ending her life to escape, fate steps in in the form of an invitation to the Monster Ball. Will accepting the invitation save her? Or will she just enjoy one final night? Is the mysterious, intriguing man who seems to keep appearing enough to keep the monsters at bay? These two characters both have fates that make finding love difficult, if not impossible – I want to see where they go from here.

Moon Kissed
The man behind the curtain – who helps out with the Ball but has never been? Sweet, sad story about love that lasts lifetimes. How much will each half of this lovely couple endure before they are together again? Why were they separated in the first place? Loved the devotion shown here.

The Girl Who Never Cried
Talia and Lynch. This is the only couple that shows up together and wraps the Monster Ball up nicely. I love this couple. Such good chemistry and the party planning husband who is taking in all of the décor while they are on a special mission. MmmWhaa! I want to learn more about the world they came from – they are fantastic!

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well year 3 of the Monsters Ball is here and it’s another consortium of mixed authors, many who I’ve read previously and a few new to me. This years Monsters Ball is another tastefully Tantalizing read. It’s filled with all sorts of “monsters” from the first short story to the 13th.

I absolutely loved he of the stories, we will all have our favorites as all the stories and writing is diffrent for each one. Every author in this has done an amazing job in this shared world and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I was going to break it down by book, but you know what, just read it and find out what stories you absolutely adore.. my favorite had a taste of Camelot which brought 2 of my favorite types of read together.

The shared world is always amazing in this series and this year is no different, from the dastardly deeds to the epic bartenders, (dragon boy ooh my hotness, Dex) the use and the mixing of the shared characters brings all the characters and separate stories together, so you can imagine that everyone of them are at the same party.. I kept thinking “I wonder if so and so will bump into each other, or ooh no someone is getting their sizzle on up there already what if they are caught, since another couple is heading to the same area lol..

The time and energy that the authors put into the stories is amazing, the details shared and individual just made the world, wether it be the vampires attire, or kitsuun fighting for tail, every detail is eye catching.

The naughty scenes go from tastefully titillation to down right sexually sinful. The heat level does vary from story to story, which is expected as each Authors has their own level of naughtiness which makes the book even more fun as you read the different styles what level of holy hotness each author enjoys writing..

I know I found a few new book boyfriends in this book that I wanted to exit the ball with, and I’m sure you will too.. Make sure you get your ticket for The Monsters Ball and sit back and enjoy the party as it’s a ball that you will not want to miss out on

[nat _lovestoread · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟 Phenomenal 🌟

** A Tail of Another Kind
OMG, this story went straight to my heart 🤗💞, love, love, love Liv and Julian's story. Self love and worth are more important that the world's opinion, always remember this!!! 💖

** Ghosted
WTH!!! 😩... AJ and Leo's story made me cried so hard!!! 😭... Your most desired wish can come true if you wish upon it with all your heart!!! 😍

** Second Chances
Awwww 🤗... Eve and Lance's story is so sweet!!!... I do believe in second chances and it makes me so happy when people get theirs and live happily forever!!! 💕

**Reaping Revenge
When Nephthys started to care more about Nyx's necessities rather than her thirst for revenge and act upon it, they both found a true and worthy friendship... Not that they will stop annoying each other, but still... 😁🤗💞 #friendshipsgoals #girlspower

**Red Sea
Your true love can be right in front of you and you have missed it all this time, by chasing the wrong person, by sticking to the wrong standards, but remember it's never too late 😉 #maketherightchoice

**Fated Foes
OMG yes!!!, I totally loved this story as I recently read Blood Hunt and I fell in love with Rainey and Elijah's story... It makes me really happy that Jack found Willa, their story is everything, can't wait for the next book in this series!!! 😍💖

OK this is just a taste of the amazing stories you can find in this phenomenal anthology, go buy your copy because this is a MUST have, so you can reread it whenever you need it!!! 💕

#fivestarread #amazinganthology #amazingAuthors #bookworm #ImAReader #booklovers #bookstagram #authorsofinstagram #mustread #musthave

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a unique anthology filled with incredible tales by amazing authors! This is one of the few anthologies where the authors work together to have the characters from certain stories to make cameos in the other stories intertwining the tales.
-A Tail of Another Kind: I love stories that include Kitsunes! Liv is a great heroine to follow and I love her interactions with Julian. All in all, a wonderful tale!
-Ghosted: An emotional roller coaster, get your tissues ready for AJ and Leo's story.
-Second Chances: I love stories that take classic known tales and make it their own. Eve and Lance were very adorable throughout!
-Reaping Revenge: This one was very unique! I do not get to read enough stories with Egyptian gods/goddesses and this one was a very entertaining read!
-Red Sea: The main characters of this story Dante and Noel are characters from the authors other series, but you don't need to have read it to enjoy their story. Time for some fun at the Monster Ball!
-Fated Foes: There are tons of steamy, romantic moments throughout this story. Got to love enemies to lovers stories. Willa and Jack were on fire!
I am looking forward to reading Djinn and Bear It, Moon Kissed and The Girl Who Never Cried, but I know they are going to be fantastic!

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely awesome!

This year of the Monster Ball exceeded all expectations! It was an absolutely splendid read! Here are some highlights of what I thought of individual stories:

A Tail of Another Kind
Absolutely loved this story, but totally want more! Extremely likable characters and a healthy amount of steam make this one a fantastic read!! Also loved that the main character is a kitsune since I haven’t read many stories with that type of supernatural.

Ghosted
Such a sweet emotional tale. I loved reading about AJ. When introduced to her in a previous series she was one of my favorite characters so I thoroughly enjoyed getting more of her. This story had me in tears of sadness and joy at the same time. Definitely a fantastic read!

Second Chances
I freaking loved this one! I could read an entire book/series about this story. The characters were lovable, the writing superb, and the world intriguing. Totally enjoyed this one!

Reaping Revenge
I was interested in Nyx after having her appear in an early story so I am glad we get a tale about her. It was a fantastic read, written from the point of view or her cat. Such a good read!

Red Sea
This one was steamy! The chemistry between the main characters was off the charts! Definitely felt it ended too quickly because I was anxious for more. Great read!

Fated Foes
I need more!! This was such a tease because it was so wonderful! I want to know what happens next so bad!

[Tiffany (Bibliophile Babes Book Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great year

It's always an adventure going to the Monster Ball, and this year was definitely an adventure. I love how each year has a magical and wondrous location. I also loved the returning characters, like the bartenders and the Gargoyle twins, they make everything feel cohesive. While there are characters that continue from year to year each book can be read independently of the other years.

The writing by these wonderful authors brings this book to life. I enjoyed how the authors mentioned the Titanic movie, it helped me visualize the ship more. I think I know which author wrote which story but I could be wrong. The mystery around who wrote which story is part of the fun;that's why I make sure I get it on release day so I can read and guess.

The Monster Ball isn't just a book it's a whole experience. I hope they continue for years to come. A definite five star read.

[Alli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just read the novella by Karpov Kinrade and Evan Gaustad so far, but I always enjoy this collection. Reading the interconnected stories are so fun and magical!

I love that this after story follows beloved side-characters from their Last Witch trilogy. Seeing AJ get her HEA was so sweet. This made me feel all the feels and I love that it also addresses social issues. Karpov Kinrade does a great job at using these character elements to create characters with more depth and it's beautiful. This story may be short, but I didn't feel it was rushed at all. It was both heart-breaking and heart-warming and made me feel all the feels.

Quick & Dirty Details:
- Anthology paranormal/fantasy romance with interconnected stories
- Fast burn, Low steam

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone deserves love

What is the monsters you know really just wanted their happily ever after? And what if one special person could deliver them that at least one night a year. Welcome back to the monster ball the one night a year monsters get there have a happily ever after at least for 12 hours or so. This collection of short stories started off was probably my favorite of the book and ended with me in tears. Getting New characters as well as some familiar faces was an amazing experience I now have several authors I must go dive into and follow their books in their work. If you’re a fan of any one of these authors I highly recommend reading this collection you’ll find new authors to love.

[Jaci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous stories with fabulous endings! Some not so pleasant situations resulting in happy endings. Unexpected foes finding each other. There was so much steamy chemistry, some characters finding love. This was a great year with amazing stories written by amazing authors. I cannot wait to see what Year 4 brings!!

[Eyke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Anthology !

Really enjoyed all of the novellas. Fell in love with each new character and definitely made me interested in reading more from these authors. Job well done intersecting each other’s characters into their own individual stories. Kudos to these authors!!!

[Bookish Serendipity Shannon williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

Every year this anthology just gets better and better. Year three is AMAZING. I loved every single story! The Monster Ball is such a unique concept, I just love it and have looked forward to it every single year! I loved this years setting, the freaking titanic?! How awesome! Gaaah I cannot get enough. I need more!!!

[Jan Manning]

Sad Ending

As always I love the different stories that happen at the ball. From the first book I was enchanted by the monsters and their happy ever after. Does this mean the end of the ball? I hope not. It would be a shame to forget everyone that still has a love in the world. The Proprietor needs a rest and time for her own happiness. We shall see.

[Pam Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a night!!!!!!

The Monster Ball is the party to end all parties. Every monster wants an invite to the exclusive event and this year’s guest list is full of variety!!!! I love these anthologies, they are so cleverly written with different stories and taking place at the same venue on the same night, yet each novella is unique. I’d highly recommend The Monster Ball as the perfect read for 2020 when so many parties and events have been cancelled....here is the perfect opportunity to get glammed up, grab a drink and party!! 5 stars 🌟

[BlueBug · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the past three years, I've enjoyed receiving my invitation to The Monster Ball, and this one topped them all. Each of these stories was a standalone with a happy ending, which isn't always the case, and many of the characters were some we have gotten to know in books previously written by the authors present or characters introduced by them, which made me want to read all of the works written by the authors here. I'd love to talk about the individual stories, but they really have to be read to find any satisfaction. As always, the Proprieter did a marvelous job of hosting the Ball in a place none of us would have ever guessed would be possible, and it was a marvelous success.

There are several characters and stories I will always hold close to my heart because I know the authors' works. But I have to say that the one that won the prime spot was that of the Proprietor.
This is the final book in the series, and I'm going to miss attending the ball each year. It's been a wonderful run, and a spectacular distraction from everyday life. I look forward to whatever these authors have in store for us next, and can't wait to see what kind of collaboration they will come up with.

[Telisha Mortensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has EVERYTHING!!

Omg i am obsessed with these books. Monster's Ball is my favorite anthology series of all time. They literally have everything!! Year three has some of my favorite creatures to read about (hello djinns!) And some of my favorite tropes (enemies to lovers...wink wink Jack and Willa) and i love when fate brings mates together. And the heat level of all of these short stories is out of this world! I really need to figure out all the authors so I can continue these worlds and stories. I hope there is a Year 4!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal

Each story was amazing. I found new authors I want to follow and loved the ones I know. I hope there is another Monster ball where monsters can be themselves and not be afraid!

[Good Books & Tasty Morsels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow!!!

The 3rd year is just as amazing as the previous years! This book has been an awesome read. Every year the venue changes and I get so excited to read all about it, and this year was not a disappointment.

Every author has has their own style of writing, but this anthology works so well together. I love that one author's character will run into another author's character and the stories don't flow so well. No contradictions, just amazing quality writing.

Highly recommend everyone to read this book!

[Jenny Zimmerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fate can lead you down paths you never thought you would travel, but it always seems to know exactly where you need to go. -The Monster Ball
What a magical Anthology this was.
The characters within each story were incredible. I made many connections with many new characters and I am so happy to have gotten the opportunity to meet and love each one. Each character made their stories so much fun to read and kept me craving to read more.
The story-lines were phenomenal. I loved how each story had its own scenes to tell and yet each story intertwined with one another. It truly made the stories unique and intriguing knowing that I got a glimpse of a character within another story even if it was for a brief second. Each author did a fantastic job reeling me in and surprising me from beginning to end. Even though the ending was shocking and sad, it was still a happily ever after in my mind. And I found myself smiling and laughing in certain parts of each story too. I truly enjoyed these authors individuality that shown bright within each story and I highly recommend this anthology.

[Misty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall this was a decent collection of novellas. There were interesting concepts for most of them and the pacing seemed to be pretty consistent throughout all of them. The characters for the most part were decent, though there were some that were irritating to my tastes. There were one or two that were predictable, but for the most part everything was enjoyable. There was sex in most of them (more than what would be my taste, but a lot of people that like romance will enjoy it). Definitely read all the novellas, including the Note From The Proprietor at the end. I will say that a good chunk of the stories made me want to look into reading more work from the authors. Now to figure out which story was written by which author (this was a blind release, so there were no author names on the stories). I am voluntarily reviewing this collection, gifted to me by one of the authors (as well as reading it in KU) with no obligation.