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Mates for Monsters #5

The Djinn's Desire

Can she make her wish come true? Or will evil get the better of her?

Tanika must keep her djinn from killing again. How? By refusing to complete the wish she made as a child, a wish for a loving mate and happy family. As long as that spell is incomplete, the demon can't move on to claim another soul.

Enter Ophir, a sultry man who promises to sweep her off her feet. She wants to resist, but she craves his kisses. Needs his touch. Yearns for his embrace. A little taste of pleasure doesn't mean she's committing to a future, right?

But Ophir has a secret she never expected, and Tanika finds herself on the wrong side of a magic she didn't know she possessed. Not only is her heart on the line, but the very thing that makes her human - her soul.

Content warning: Explicit love scenes and seductive magic. Intended for mature audiences.

178 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 6, 2017

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About the author

Tamsin Ley

105 books356 followers
Steamy Sci-Fi with a Pinch of Pixie Dust
USA Today Best-selling author Tamsin Ley builds worlds full of sexy heroes who don’t know they need a mate - that is, until they meet the woman they can’t resist. Sign up for her newsletter to learn more, plus receive exclusive, subscriber-only content!
https://www.tamsinley.com/newsletter

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Community Reviews

5 stars
108 (33%)
4 stars
101 (31%)
3 stars
83 (25%)
2 stars
21 (6%)
1 star
7 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for AvidReader.
1,547 reviews362 followers
March 6, 2018
4.5 stars ⭐️
I am glad I stumbled upon this!
This is a short charming love story. It certainly had depth and emotion. Most of the Djinn books i read so far are either lame or very complicated. This was perfect. I badly wanted an epilogue to know more about Ophir and Tanika. And I always Love a book with unique names. I certainly loved the author’s writing style hence I will definitely read more from her.
Definitely recommended.
Profile Image for Marta Cox.
2,929 reviews210 followers
May 24, 2018
This is actually my first book by this author but I confess I've been seeing her name crop up quite a lot recently. I absolutely love the idea of djinn although they are so often portrayed as conniving, unpleasant fellows who just cause trouble for us mere mortals. So imagine my delight in this wholly original idea of not one but two djinn getting entangled with the same human female. Tanika knows only too well that the djinn who offered to grant her wish is not to be trusted and will gladly sacrifice her own happiness if it means he can never hurt anyone else. So when Ophir walks into her salon theres no way Tanika will fall for his charms and finally let all her dreams come true. Trouble is Ophir only wants to go home and no I don't mean Kansas !
I thoroughly enjoyed this although it was a little shorter than I prefer. It had a lovely sweet albeit very quick romance with a very obvious fly in the ointment ! The ending wasn't at all predictable and I loved being surprised by the authors originality.
Profile Image for Bri The Shameless Romance Reader.
358 reviews35 followers
April 11, 2023
2.5 star I rounded up. It’s not terrible, but it’s not that great either. The two MC’s meet and fall in love in one day and defeat the villain in roughly the same timeframe. If you think to hard on it the plot falls apart, kind of like if you think to hard about Aladdin’s wishes coming up short in the Disney movie.
Profile Image for Shannon.
117 reviews2 followers
August 7, 2017
Some books are easier for me to review with the aid of these handy check-mark boxes provided by Goodreads. This is one of those. My true feeling is 3.5 stars, but I liked it enough to not wish to drag the rating down. I think, most of all, this just was not my personal, eccentric cup of tea. It was well-written and well-edited. I am just not a fan of "insta-love" especially with regard to soulmates. That took a lot away for me as I couldn't really bond with the relationship development aspect. The twist was decent. The end result was predictable, but the way the author got us there was not, so A+ for imagination. Being a novella, it was a one-sitting easy read. I recommend this for light, erotic fun if that is your thing. It is for a lot of people. As I said in the beginning, my tastes are a bit eccentric in this day and age, so I don't want penalize the author for that. This tale has a lot going for it for a lot of people I believe. Please read other reviews for more detail. :)
Profile Image for Joel Crofoot.
Author 26 books117 followers
July 26, 2017
Tanika has lived in the shadow of her family's death for her whole life, and attached to djinn that killed them. Her chastity is the only thing preventing him from hurting others and she is bent on keeping it that way.
Ophir has been wandering the earth for over 800 years in search of a way to cross back to the realm of the djinn. Just when he thinks he may have found a way, he gets blindsided by love. But is there a way to convince her to return his passion despite everything she knows about djinn, and if so, what will they do about the djinn that has been haunting her?
For such a short little story, this has everything you would want in a paranormal romance, couple that with the great writing and what you get is a wonderful story that is hard to put down.
Profile Image for Kayla.
1,835 reviews18 followers
July 16, 2020
I didn't think I'd like this but I did. Despite the fact that the romance happened really quickly (as it does in all of the stories in this series) it was still pretty good and I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Shari.
71 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2017
Tamsin Ley sent this reader an ARC (advanced reader copy) of her latest offering, "Djinn's Desire", in exchange for an honest review. This is the third book by Ley that this reader had the pleasure of reading, and once again, she does not disappoint. There were some minor spelling, grammar and punctuation issues in the ARC - but none big enough to toss a reader from Ley's well-crafted world. Most were extra words in sentences or things a spellcheck might not catch, like substituting the word "of" when "off" was clearly meant. A small continuity error concerning protagonist Tanika's pants in the restaurant scene, did have this reader briefly scratching her head, although she was able to quickly fall back into Ley's world. Djinn's, or genies, are probably this reader's least favorite paranormal creature, yet she found herself rooting for alpha male Ophir very quickly, due to Ley's beautiful presentation of the djinn.

Ley builds beautiful backgrounds that are easily visualized by this reader, although she will admit her favorite is still Ley's first book, "Merman's Kiss"; as a SCUBA diver that no longer dives, that book allowed me time underwater once again. And in "Djinn's Desire", Ley once again delivered lovely settings that were easily visualized and brought to mind similar places she had visited in the past. The salon Tanika owns actually brought back fond memories of the 'old-tyme' barber shop her own father worked in, many, many years ago. Each character was nicely crafted; Ophir showing the largest growth, in this reader's opinion, as he slowly changed from self-centered to caring about others. Protagonist Tanika's changes were slightly more subtle as she moved from revenge to grief and acceptance, and finally a strength of character that had been trying to emerge all along. Dialogue for all characters was authentic and believable, each showing a bit of their personality traits.

Antagonist Elim began almost as a caricature of a stereotypical djinn, but the changes he went through created the best evil villain Ley has created yet, in this reader's opinion. He was the villain you almost felt sorry for while still wanting him to get his just desserts! That was truly a beautiful balance. And while the ending provided many twists and turns, keeping the action at a fairly steady pace, this reader also found some of the magical implications confusing at times. The lavendar eyes in the salon... was that meant to imply Tanika's distant djinn blood was coming to the surface? As djinn's are immortal, does the ending imply Elim is now a part of Tanika? These are actually questions this reader will ponder for some time to come, and that's actually a good thing. It means "Djinn's Desire" will stay with me, perhaps deep in my subconscious as I work through these issues. And what better compliment can one give a writer, than - your words will stay with me. This reader highly recommends Tamsin Ley and all of her works.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
21.4k reviews372 followers
June 26, 2017
Ophir, trapped on Earth for a long time, could smell djinn magic on the air. He had to hurry to get to the portal before it closed. He spurred his horse to a gallop in the dark night. He came upon gypsies around a campfire and used magic to change his appearance to a wealthy merchant, knowing they would respond to him out of greed. The magic was strong near their camp and he needed to find it quickly. The portal could be anything made of metal to open a path to the djinn dimension, and it looked like the gypsy woman was going to hide it out of his sight – until shouts drew her away from the wagon.

Tanika Skye carried a basket of clean towels into the Séance Hair Salon where they did hair in the front of the shop and did psychic readings in the back. Birdie had not rinsed out the curlers and the room smelled like permanent-wave solution. She had been bothered for years by a djinn who hung around because she would not fulfill her wish and earn him his reward. Instead, he made things difficult for her, trying to ruin her business and force her to move to another town. He popped in once again to torment her until someone walked in the salon door.

As luck would have it, Ophir drove into this run-down town and stopped in a little café. An older woman entered, and Ophir smelled the anise scent that meant djinn magic was nearby. He ran out and followed the scent to the salon several stores down. Ophir knew a portal had been used here for quite some time. And when the gypsy female read his palm, he could feel a small bit of magic coming from her skin. Would she be a way home for him? Or perhaps he should stay a while and get to know her better? And would the djinn who continued trying to force Tanika to do what he wanted interfere with Ophir’s passage home?

This was a well-written, interesting story that I really enjoyed. The story line moved forward at a good pace, so the reader was engaged in the outcome. The characters were well described so the reader had a feel for their personalities and cared what happened to them. The author did a wonderful job creating the various environments that Ophir experienced in his 800 years of being trapped in the human dimension. It felt real and had just enough detail to be fully believable. I definitely recommend this book. It is well worth reading!
Profile Image for Karen.
383 reviews
June 11, 2017
This is the first book I have read by Tamsin Ley and I really enjoyed it. It a sweet paranormal romance with a little heat thrown in, which doesn't overpower the story. I often read what other reviews have wrote and I do agree with what JJSM wrote, when she said the only thing missing was an epilogue, as when a book is a stand alone, it's nice, to continue reading just that little bit more about how their lives continue in the future. But even without the epilogue it doesn't stop this from being a good book. The author kept it interesting with a couple of twists along the way, that kept me wanting to read more about the characters she'd created. Ophirs a Djinn (Genie) that has been trapped on earth for over 800 years, following the death of his Master and the destruction of his portal. And ever since, his sole purpose in life is to find another portal, so he can get back to his own dimension. Then he comes across Tanika a fortune telling hairdresser, who holds a portal, but now he's found her, his mate, he's not so desparate to go home. Tanika has been leery of magic and demons, ever since she wished for her own happily ever after, as the wish cost her the lives of her mother and grandmother. She vowed to never claim her wish, even if it meant her remaining a virgin forever. Until she meets Ophir and although consumed with passion she can't deny, can she overcome her hatred of Djinns and take her happily ever after? Not at the cost of other human souls. I want to tell you more but I can't as I hate when reviewers give away too much of the story and spoil it for other readers. So if you want to find out more, then you're just going to have to read the book. I voluntarily read a review copy of this book.
Profile Image for Anna Marie.
1,480 reviews2 followers
December 14, 2018
I'll be honest with you - this was NOT what I was expecting. I thought it was about a genie, pretty much. Not about a demon's love story. This book is crystal balls, palm readings, incense and glamours. It's 80% graphic sex, too. Consider yourself warned. As someone of the polar opposite spiritual leanings, I had difficulties with this. Stole a star from me, playing loose with topics I take seriously and have a caution about.

Having said, the writing was solid. The characters were only slightly cliched. The thing that stole the other star, however, was the lack of believable motivation. There is NO way that a woman who has held onto her virginity and hatred of a demon who harvested her mother's soul would so quickly spread her legs for an 'unreadable' man she met only an hour earlier. NO way. It wouldn't have been that easy. The book was too quick and easy. It sacrificed development for sex scenes (which... if you've read one, you've read 'em all. I just skim to the end of each session. Made the book go REALLY fast, btw.)

It was well done, considering what it was. A little quick, a little pat, and a little unbelievable, but there was enough to commend the writer for to give a three-star... which is nothing to sniff at, considering my typical reviews. And surprising from me, considering the material delved into, here.
Profile Image for Melanie S.
1,845 reviews36 followers
July 10, 2024
Of heat, magic, and bad bargains

Somehow Tanika has acquired an unwanted djinn who manipulates her into fulfilling her cherished wish to marry her true love and have a family. Trouble is, this bad djinn is a soul eater, so if she asks for her wish to be fulfilled, her true love's soul will be taken and he will die. Talk about a bad deal. And when another djinn, seeking the magic to restore him to djinn homeland, connects with Tanika and her bad djinn things get really wretched. Good djinn falls for Tanika, she falls for him, and it's djinn vs. djinn to see which one can out-maneuver the other to get what he wants. Tanika, of course, stands to lose either way. This is one dark, carb-loaded, and steamy magical romance with a very convoluted path to HEA. It's a fast read. Parts of it got a bit more convoluted than I liked, but I enjoyed the sexy parts, the carb-loading bits, and the angsty and angry drama.
1 review
March 4, 2025
I absolutely loved The Djinn’s Desire! Tamsin Ley did a fantastic job crafting a romance that felt both magical and deeply emotional. The magic system was easy to follow, which I appreciated—it added to the story without being overly complicated or distracting from the characters.

What really stood out to me was how the relationship developed. It had just the right balance of tension and longing. I’m a sucker for a well-earned happy ending, and this book delivered perfectly. The resolution was satisfying and left me with that warm, content feeling I always hope for in a romance.

And, of course, the spicy scenes? Absolutely top-tier. 👌

If you love a well-paced, magical romance with a rewarding happily-ever-after, this book is definitely worth picking up!
Profile Image for  Elektra | My Trending Books.
806 reviews4 followers
September 3, 2017

Ya know after buying the merman kiss I thought what the hell lets read all of her books!
This book wasn't monstery enough. When you set the bar high better keep it up. None the less this book doesn't disappoint either so a good romance story with sexy scenes doesn't fail ever.

I am loving her books it's something about them that makes it humane? Although it has a lot of fantasy in it. So this book was like yuss you go girl so him who's the boss.
( you know what I mean when you read it)
It was satisfying guys the book; not only n the romance perspective but story wise.

http://mytrendingbooks.blogspot.co.nz...
Profile Image for shannon  Stubbs.
2,020 reviews13 followers
June 6, 2017
This was a great story. It's about two people meeting by chance. Tanika is an owner of a beauty salon who happens to be tied to a djinn who hasn't fulfilled his wish. The djinn is evil and is ruining her life. Ophir is a djinn who is trapped on earth due to his master and portal being destroyed. While searching for a way home, he is initially drawn to Tanika because of the djinn's magic. After meeting her they fall in love. Together they try to free her of the evil djinn and get Ophir back home. I really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Kimberly Howe.
1,266 reviews38 followers
June 13, 2017
I loved this book. I loved how it made you think, what would you give in order to get your hearts desire. Ophir has been on Earth for so long he is losing the desire to go home. Tanika is a strong woman that wanted nothing more that banishing her demon to death. It was such a treat to see the story play out. Ophir and Tanika bond and let's say holy hotness...it is interesting how Tanika comes to the realization of Elim and how he will never win. Fight for what you want and never give up hope that love can conquer all. Good book, definitely recommend!!
Profile Image for Samantha.
2,696 reviews23 followers
June 14, 2017
Djinn Desire is the third in the series and just about as good as the others. Ophir is trying to get home but after 800 years is it what he really wants?

Tanika has struggled with her demon since she was a little girl and being around Ophir messes with all of her well laid plans and makes her demons more pesky than normal.

When the lust burns bright these two will have to battle the fire and come out on the other side dealing with the aftermath.
Profile Image for Bubbles The Book Pimp.
955 reviews
July 10, 2017
Next section of the mates for monsters series.

Loved loved loved this book. Original concept and gripping from the get go. Considering it's stated as a novella in the blurb it's a good length, allowing for the plot to develop and reveal.

The monster in this story is a djinn ( genie ) and he isn't a monster at all... misguided but not monsterous.

I will be keeping an eye peeled for future releases in this series and by the author.
1,020 reviews12 followers
February 19, 2021
Desire the Djinn

I’m putting my order in for a Djinn soul mate. Ophir is like every woman’s dream. Handsome, tall, rich, able to give you anything you desire with a click of his fingers is icing. The brownie beneath is his undying love and adoration. And all that loving action heating the sheets? WOW! Seriously, another great read from this author. All of the above and a HEA. I’m done. Read this book and get your heartstrings played.
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,647 reviews25 followers
June 8, 2017
This is a great read with an interesting storyline and characters you really enjoy spending time with. The characters have this connection that neither expected and really changes their plans for the future.

It was a pretty quick read for me but left me feeling very satisfied. It is a rich storyline that offers a great reading experience.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
2,226 reviews4 followers
June 10, 2017
This story is really what it means true love conquers all. To our heroine djinn are evil creatures who should all be killed. Then she meets our hero a djinn who's been trapped on earth for 800 years, he shows her not all djinn are evil. The two of them work together to eliminate the evil that threatens our heroine.

I received an ARC of this story and chose to review it here.
Profile Image for Jen.
760 reviews44 followers
July 6, 2017
Oh Lordy, this was perfection

First, I like the idea the author had of a djinn story. Second, I just adored Tanika and Ophir. Tanika was an amazing woman and a heroine that readers will love. Ophir was the perfect hero. And the best part: they could save each other. So, read this and enjoy this HEA.
2,157 reviews21 followers
February 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this as it was a very different type of djinn story. The author's explanation as for why and how djinn grant wishes is so twisted and yet it makes so much sense, and it makes for a cohesive storyline that results in a story which hangs together in a way that grabs my sympathies as well as my attention. Very original and creative - definitely great reading!
Profile Image for Tricia .
51 reviews
May 18, 2024
To be honest I thought I wouldn’t like this last book in this series. But I surprised myself and I loved it very much. I did so much that I cried towards the end when I was finishing the book. Just the way it was written with all the love etc. I just got a bit teary eyed. It was great story and ending as well.
Profile Image for Sherry Westendorf.
4,603 reviews22 followers
June 8, 2017
Not something I have read before. It is just different enough to be a good read. It is exciting, magical, hot, suspenseful and so much more. They have their reasons to not get together. I recommend it. I was given a review copy and voluntarily review it.
Profile Image for Barbara Van Zandt.
1,361 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2017
Wish

Poor Tanika keeping herself from a happy ending because of a wish of an 8 yr old child. A djinn bound to her through her wish and another djinn wanting to go home. Funny how finding Tanika is really his mate and helps her to get rid of her dying.
958 reviews2 followers
September 13, 2017
Great!

This was a great book. You are really drawn in right from the beginning. Just really liked everything about it. This is the first book I have read from this author and I know I will be checking out her other books.
Profile Image for Beatrice Drury.
498 reviews4 followers
August 21, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this book. The mates for monsters premise had me thinking that it would have little or no plot and sex scenes galore. The Story was rather sweet with an intriguing "monster" and a different hea. Glad I read it and will try more of tamsin's books.
Profile Image for Natalie.
4,806 reviews13 followers
August 21, 2018
The Djjnn's Desire

I was worried the moment Elim showed up at her salon after Ophir disappeared. I thought she was pregnant and that was what was holding Elim to earth. I'm glad Tanika got rid of the evil djinn and got her mate back.
Profile Image for T..
Author 13 books572 followers
December 24, 2018
I downloaded The Djinn's Desire as a free ebook from Amazon. A cute, lighthearted story with a few interesting surprises. Would have been better with more depth, but I liked the characters and the unusual worldbuilding for the djinn.
Profile Image for Athena.
29 reviews
October 26, 2025
Heartwarming, moving, adventurous and fresh, djinn's desire is another winner from tamsin ley! It meshes wondrously into her mates for monsters collection and I devoured it quickly! I can't wait for more from tamsin ley!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews