I need to free my monsters, give them a chance to truly live, but it feels like everything is against me. A centuries old curse, the fact I have no idea how my power works, and then there's my family. Everyone wants thing to stay the same, but me. But I'm not about to keep quiet and let the sins of the past become those of the future. Times running out as All Hallows' approaches, but I'm going to use everything in my power to make things right. Even if it comes at the ultimate price. Author note: This book is a 200k story split across two parts. They will be released at the same time, so you'll be able to binge the whole story arc in one sitting. No cliffhangers, guaranteed HEA.
So this book kinda lost me, I didn't enjoy it as much as the first. The two plot stories of the present with the heroine as heir and the breaking of the curse felt as if they were dividing the book and then were not fully resolved until the end. I was relieved to finally have answers particularly on why her men appeared to her as monsters but it felt overshadowed by all the other drama going on that had me mad. Nothing brings out the worst in people like a death in the family. People feel entitled to things and they will do anything they can to see they get what they believe they are owed. Same goes here and the heroine is left fighting with an uncle who won't accept the way things are. I don't know why I let his behvior get to me so much but this combined with the heroine just giving in had me furious. As a woman with monsters at her beck and call I was a little disappointed she didn't play dirty like her uncle did. I mean accidents happen all the time, shhhh! I also felt like we didn't even see as much of her monsters unless they were training her to use her powers. Four monsters combined with her growing relationship with (the living) Jasper and Maddox had me feeling split. How the heck would this trio work with four more men when they can't even get along. Perhaps a drawn out ending would have made this better for me especially if we got to see how everyone adapts to their new lives. I didn't love how everything got dragged out. In the end, I did have to laugh when they were all talking about having a baby. Me who is anti kids wouldn't even mind, I mean hell there are 6 men, more than enough to handle a few kids :P
Fighting Monsters: Part Two was disappointing. I honestly wasn't expecting much after being okay with the first part. So, I just kind of went with it and had zero expectations already set. The only thing I really wanted was information - that's pretty much it.
I never thought I would ever say that I didn't like a book with so much freaking romance. You'd think the world was ending if I did. Unfortunately, that's how I felt with these two books. There was so much romance but not enough plot for me. Once we got one thing, characters got distracted romantically and I was left with unanswered questions. Just floating around and around until I finally got the information I needed.
Which, yes, I eventually got in this book. Did things make sense? Sure. Did I care anymore? Honestly, not really. Things dragged so much throughout this one that I lost all kinds of investment in these characters. The monsters themselves were interesting in the beginning but became lame towards the end. Then there's family drama that just ended up annoying me more than anything.
In the end, I was pretty excited to jump into these two books but left with disappointment.
I loved not having to wait for part two after completely binging book one. I adored these characters and their story and would love to see more from this world.
This book was full of twists and turns, so many emotions and fantastic character and plot development. It’s easy to become lost in this world and I loved all of the characters.
So happy both parts were released at the same time. Almost straight in and Kylie learnt the truth. Her all in attitude was great. Lots of sex and a balance between the two groups. Thanks to the uncle it did feel strained at times. Less of the monsters which was a little disappointing, so happy with the end twist. Still not decided on Maddox. Dark themes but I still couldn’t like the mother. I’m hoping Poppy finds her own happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This second and last book was amazing! Secrets and mysteries were revealed and we understood better the sick dynamic in Morgan's family as well as all the mysteries, the history behing Morgan's ancestors, etc.
I found the storyline totally captivating and so complex! It's amazing how the author built such a complex world, thought about every details, and still being able to make sense of the story. In this book we can really observe how Morgan grow up as well as her guys. I'm not a big fan of Jasper though, something didn't click for me and I always had the feeling that he hid too much things from Morgan. At the end, I was still a bit upset with Malcolm. I never really liked the guy but even after the big plot twist and how it did make sense, I'm a bit bitter about him... The HEA could have gone a little bit further for me😉❤
But anyway, this serie (duet) is definitely a fantastic read, I really recommend it!
As I said in my review of part one, this is not really my kind of book so I’m not going to seep into this review. Take it with a grain of salt if this is up your alley!
All things considered, I enjoyed the plot of this book. I like the idea of Rosanna’s Coven following her bloodline after her death, and I wish that we had more of that. Honestly, the only real parts that the monsters had in these books was to bone her and a couple of magic lessons. Considering these books are supposed to be about the monsters, there was a huge focus on Maddox and the Green Man.
Now, that being said. Maddox. Holy man Maddox. He had me. My heart literally broke. The plot surrounding Morgan and her Uncle and their fight over the estate was well done. The twist at the end of the book was not something that I was expecting and I really enjoyed it.
At the end of the day, I wish that there was a bit more focus on the magic in these books, and dare I say, the monsters minus the smut.
I couldn’t put it down! Book two picks up where one left off and it was amazing. So many twists and turns. It was like taking my mind on a white water rafting trip, lol. Seriously, the world building, characters, plot and flow were all top notch.
I know it’s only the two books, and that there’s a HEA, but I love the characters so much. I’m going to be holding out hope that maybe the author will be inspired to revisit them and write more in the future.
If you’re all into monster romance and reverse harem, then these two books are the epitome of how it should be done. I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
This was the conclusion to the duet with Morgan and her men and it keeps you on a mental roller coaster until the very end! Morgan thought she had it all, only for it to come crashing down in the end. She was put through under hell in order to get her happy ending and I absolutely adored how it turned out! Such a fantastic read!
On the fence about this one. I didn't hate this seris, but I didn't love it either. This story very much felt like another I had read previously, but with monsters thrown in. (No accusations meant with that statement, just an overall vibe.)
What an incredible conclusion to Morgan's story! Literally, part two picks right up where part one leaves off!
This was such an emotional roller-coaster. I laughed and cried, and did everything in between. My heart was broken and then slowly stitched back together.
A must read! Not only does Sam make monster romance super hot and believable, she weaves in some magic, family drama, and mystery. I'm definitely hoping for a spin-off series with some of the other characters if Sam ever feels inclined! Definitely recommend if you're looking for a good time!
Warning: Do not read if you haven't read Fighting Monsters Part One
I don't even know what to say. Fighting Monsters Part Two wrapped up Morgan's story perfectly complete with a HEA. After everything was set up in Part One, Part Two just went wild, the ante was upped. I'm talking wild magic, betrayal, family schemes put to the extremes, horrifying discoveries, emotional wreckage, and the curse is finally laid bare.
Sam just about wrecked me in this part, I was balling a few times in this one. Morgan, Jasper, and Maddox clumsily trying to figure out their relationship, realizing how it could have been if she was allowed to grow up with them. Seeing what they missed out and now coming together trying to make sense of things, learning what they want and not fight it like they have been conditioned to do. Maddox surprised me the most, the man has hidden depths, and I had some real emotional moments with him. While Jasper stole my heart from minute one, I'm glad that Morgan has opened to him. Speaking of relationships, Morgan's relationship with the guys (aka monsters) comes into light, things that even Morgan didn't realize but it is very obvious that what Arne, Simon, Alaric, and Rune feel for Morgan is very real as well as what she feels for them. They are the one constant in her life and to see her fully with her monsters, to see her understand more than she did before was an experience.
Not everything was all fun times. Morgan's family is toxic, even more, toxic than I believed. This crap goes back into the bloodline and then the curse is revealed and it's revealed how ratchet the Thornburys are. Morgan's family has a lot of bad blood in the line and Peter is just one of many. Things came to light about Peter that had me drawing back in disgust. Just when I thought that man couldn't get any worse turns out he so could. Peter's past actions are finally uncovered as well as his plan to destroy Morgan so completely. I have to give Sam credit because I thought Peter was your basic scheme greedy family member when in reality he was truly a monster.
I love the magic and mythology in this book. A lot more was explained about the land, the power, the histories, and the magic itself. Sam has really gone into detail, building up this world, its magic, and the connections that are made from the super-steamy ones to the emotional ones. Morgan isn't the only one pulling herself together and finally understanding what's going on not only in her life but with the magic. The Green Man and the Rose Maiden, the complex rituals they have to perform, and finding the histories of these important beings all add complex layers to the story. To have them throughout the history of the valley, how religion changed for the region instead of the other way around really makes everything more precious.
Fighting Monsters Part Two is the stunning conclusion to Morgan's story. There was something about this story (Part One and Part Two) that really sunk into my entire being. I love this story and I am so grateful that Sam wrote it and even more grateful that it has a happily ever after. I'm gonna miss Morgan and her monsters.
Here we are at book 2 of Fighting Monsters. While some may think of this story as “monster smut”, which Sam Hall writes phenomenally FYI, that would be a very simplistic way of looking at what is by far the author’s best work to date. This duet has an intricate story line ripe with mystery, characters who have depth and show growth throughout the story, and world building so well written that you find yourself easily picturing exactly what the author is describing. And monster sexy times, of course 😉
Book 2 finds the FMC building her harem, which includes her monsters, and digging deep into what exactly it means to be “Lady Rosemeade”. Her warlocks have shown her how to harness the powers of earth, wind, fire, and water, which are necessary to perform the ritual that will break the curse and heal her family trauma. They are racing against time, and an uncle willing to stop at nothing, because All Hallows’ Eve is approaching, a time when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest and the ritual must be performed, and if they are not successful they not only lose the chance to free her monsters but risk losing themselves to the darkness as well.
The FMC finds herself doubting one of her harem, the warlock, and she has every right to. He has kept secrets and his motives are still unclear; he also has a vested interest in her uncle and the reason is yet to be determined. As the story progresses it is clear that there is still so much standing in the FMC’s way. Most important, a grimior (witches journal) is missing with a spell that must be recited, and her uncle uses that as leverage to gain control of the estate, and end her monsters.
The final book in this duet takes you for a wild ride. About 2/3 of the way through your heart will be shattered. Although rare in this genre, the story seems to be heading towards the FMC losing. But we are guaranteed a HEA and after a lot of angst and breathless anticipation, we see hurts being mended and the harem complete. Fighting Monsters is one of those books that will have you feeling so many different emotions; it will have you wanting to put the book down for a minute to catch your breath and dry your tears. It’s not often I find myself so moved by a book, and it is a story I will be thinking about for a long time, yearning for more. Bravo, Sam Hall!!
Unfortunately the second part of the Fighting Monsters story felt super flat for me. I was very disappointed because the beginning of book 1 and the premise of the books was SO good.
Here are the biggest problems to me:
The harem. We have four monsters/men who have been visiting Morgan for years, and two “human men” who she has just met. It was just… too many. For one thing, the monsters are criminally underdeveloped, right until the end of the story. Maybe I’m just expecting more from my harems, but I want each characters to be more than “good in bed”. For years Morgan was able to call to them but it was mainly for sex… and she thought it was all made up in her imagination. So they watched her but she only interacted with them in usually physical times, waking up when it was over. So when she can finally talk to them and understand what’s going on… why don’t they have more emotions? More development?
And onto the human men… I just don’t get it. I don’t think the inclusion of two men with their own complicated relationship and history was needed or beneficial to the book. It added so many complicated layers that weren’t really solved. And we still didn’t get a ton of relationship development. It was mainly them figuring out shit with each other.
The curse. I was a bit let down on the entire reveal of the curse, which drove the plot of the book and the reason Morgan had her monsters. It also gave me a bit of an ick that… what… these monsters were there to serve and obey every one of her female ancestors? It was implied they didn’t have sex with all of them because them being monsters was supposed to deter the women from having feelings for them but it was still odd to me.
Everything just felt so… convoluted. I felt like we and Morgan were in the dark for so much of the book and then as things were revealed it was very… anticlimactic. Everyone just kind of shrugged and said, “well, weird things have been happening here for years so yeah, magic is probably real.”
Overall, I was bummed in the direction the story went. Because I saw so much potential but it just didn’t work for me. Everything from the harem to the relationships to the conflict and plot and resolution, to Peter and his annoying AF family… I was rushing for it to be over.
CW: mention of past rape/abuse (not heroine), violence, murder
First of all… I’m an so INCREDIBLY pleased that these released together at once! It was awesome to go from one story right into the next!
The world building/background given in terms of the magic to everything was truely AMAZING! Someday I hope to write just as good as Sam did here! Honestly there was so much intricate weaving and effortless explain actions of it all that it blew me away!
Fantastic character development and depth takes place in this book!! The first book felt a bit rough and almost dragnet as they got to know each other but this one really, really made me love these characters even more! Maddox was my favorite from the start… I know shocker- totally against the current here, but this book proved even more as to why I loved him first! Some of those emotional scenes with him really made it feel like a deeper connection and gave a lot more insight into who he is. Jasper too but ya girl was fan hurling over Maddox sorry. Ha. The monsters- an amazing group that really help to ground her and honestly just made her feel loved and good and seeing their relationship grow into a relationship rather than just seeing the large amounts of monster *you know what scenes* really helped me like them more when I was on the fence about the monsters themselves!
I definitely hate and I mean HATE her family!!! Ugh what a lot of toxic bull they are! Her mom… trash, absolute trash I have no way of imagining how she could have done half the things she did/how she treated Morgan. Also Peter… even trashier! I really thought he was going to be a back ground bad guy character but Sam surprised me with this one and I can tell you by the end I was disgusted, appalled and utterly loathed him!
Over all this proved to be an amazing read and one I hope to see more of even if it’s a spin-off!
I didn’t think it was possible to improve on the world building from part 1 but Sam Hall proved me wrong and knocked it out of the park with part 2 of Fighting Monsters, having magic, mystery, intrigue, betrayal, loyalty and steam. Tons of steam!!!! Oh, and then there is Kylie, Morgan’s sister. She brings a lot of sarcasm and laughs to the table too. Fairly certain she is my favourite. And I was happy to see Morgan and Kylie retain their “Australianisms” throughout the series as well.
I have to admit, I got a bit teary when the future of Morgan’s family legacy takes a turn toward uncertainty that no one saw coming, which then coincided with a heartbreaking betrayal Morgan and Jasper didn’t see coming. Me? I may have had an inkling in part 1 so may have seen it coming, just a little. And yet I still cried over my breakfast.
Morgan’s connection to her “monsters” is stronger than ever, and I was fascinated with the rituals Morgan endures as Samhain closes in. I feel if I say anymore, and believe me I could, it will spoil the story so I’m going to leave it there. But on a final note, I absolutely loved the ending, it was very well written. I honestly don’t think it could have finished any better than it did. Looking forward to what comes next from Sam.
The second part of Fighting Monsters by Sam Hall was of course just as spectacular and the perfect conclusion to an amazing duet full of fabulous character chemistry, hot steamy connections, and so many emotions it took you on a complete emotional roller coaster of a ride experiencing everything the characters did: love, hate, fear, anger, betrayal and finally resolution.
The story continues as Morgan tries to stop her vindictive uncle from destroying her monsters and trying to claim the inheritance for himself. More secrets of Morgan’s men and Rosemeade are discovered as truths come to light and the past is slowly revealed leaving more questions in their place. When choices are given and decisions are made it will take everyone and a journey of betrayal, deceit and manipulation around every corner.
Overall this is an absolute must read conclusion to part 1, but be warned that this story may utterly gut you! But dang is it worth it! I loved how the mystery of Rosemead and Morgan’s men unfolded, and the rich history that Hall created regarding its past and how it all flowed effortlessly. The character development was spot on and you can’t help but fall in love with Morgan, her men and of course her spitfire sister!
You know those books that shred you and put you back together, the ones where you think you know what’s happening and who to trust only to get those thoughts slammed back in your face… yep, this is one of those books. Every time I quit crying and adjusted to a new idea, it was ripped away from me. Okay, give me a moment, back to the book, Morgan is trying to stop her uncle from destroying her monsters and the inheritance of all that is Rosemeade. Peter has the grimoire which will save her monsters and all Morgan has to do is give him everything else. She will have to choose between them but, it’s not that easy. It’s NEVER that easy! There are so many people being manipulated and working behind the scenes that you don’t have a clue who to trust. I felt emotionally battered after this book and it was wonderful. Every. Singe. Minute. Trust me, these books are an experience. You need to have them. You need to be laid bare and put back together. It’s the best. I highly recommend.
I dive straight into book 2 after finishing part 1.
What an amazing story this was. I was so wrapped up in Morgan and her monsters I never wanted it to end. Morgan was trying to find a way to bring her monsters back to the real world after so long.
My heart raced through this book, so many twists and turns I didn’t know what was coming next. A few times I felt like my heart was pulled from my chest. I was emotional, broken, happy, in love. I went through everything. I loved it so much I didn’t want to put it down.
Jasper is my man 🖤 i just loved him from the beginning. I mean I loved all the guys in the harem but he had a special place.
Just what a fantastic ending to the duet. I could seriously read more of Morgan and her monsters though. Everything from this story was just amazing.
The spice throughout was another level of hotness 🥵🥵 There was a lot of BDSM, some MM (which I love) and then you have tentacles, knots, tails and everything else 😉
First time reading this author, and it won’t be the last!
What can I say, other than holy schneikies! What a ride! The storyline was superb, book(s) flowed so well, characters were well developed. The story was engrossing, well told and kept my attention very well. Although not a funny book, some of the dialogue between the sisters and between the sisters and others had me snort laughing and making mental note to use in the future.
The author does a great job of warning about potential triggers, and there definitely are some with these books. They aren’t dark, but they do have lots of mention/references to childhood trauma experienced by the FMC, and then later on with 2 other characters, including verbal and physical child abuse and one mention of r@pe. There is mention of therapy and abuse via medical manipulation, as well. The author does not dwell on these topics, however, but it is critical To the storyline. This was the first time I read this author, but as my title says, it will not be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed these books.
I am not the kind of person who likes to read about the exact same characters again and again - I very, very rarely read a two, three book series. I don't mind reading books about the same universe or side characters in a book - but the exact same people, not my thing. So when I say that I would have continued this series even if it went to 5 or 6 books is saying something BIG! The sister in this series is a stitch - a literally couldn't eat or drink anything while reading this so I didn't spew liquid or choke! Sam Hall's style is hard hitting, some of the stuff was not for the faint of heart, and when they talked about Morgan having to make a choice, I KNEW it was going to cut deep and I wasn't disappointed in how Hall played it out. If you like monsters, magic and great stories - read this book!!! Well, actually, read book #1 first.... then this one!!
The 2nd book starts right off where the 1st book ends.. Jasper is her Green Man and they are trying to figure out how to save the estate and her Shadow Men. There is many a plot afoot and it becomes a race to see if Morgan will be able to solve the mystery and not only save the Manor but more importantly save her Men! Peter is just soooo Evil. I just keep wanting for him to meet his end and Sam Hall delivered a just end! Poppy has a tremendous turnaround thanks to the sisters' help. I can't say enough about how amazing this book is. There are so many twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. I read a lot and sometimes it is hard for me to read a book and not guess where it is going to go. But with this story, there was no way and it was so enjoyable. You have to give this a try but make sure to read book one first. There is a HEA!!
I flew through the first book in this duet. And then I hit book two. And I flew through that too. This story is BRILLIANT. The first part is the perfect build-up. You learn all about who they all are and what they need to do. You become attached to the characters.
Then you hit part 2 and you get with all the action and the story really begins to develop. There are twisty turns and ups and downs. There are things that take you completely by surprise and leave you gasping. Like I said it's brilliant. Then, let's not forget... MONSTERS. Morgan has 6 of the most amazing men / monsters that are absolutely devoted to her in such a way that you turn (or well I did) green with envy - but not for long because you love Morgan so much you can't help but feel glad for her.
A (very) grown-up version of children's books I loved
I always love Sam Hall's books but this one is amazing in unexpected ways as well as the joy of her complicated interesting characters.
This one brings in what I loved about books like Lucy Boston's Green Knowe series and Susan Cooper's The Dark is Rising series. Instead of chi!dren coming to a place with magic that they didn't realize was possible, a place that part of them somehow recognizes, Morgan is an adult, and that magic brings with it difficult realizations and choices, alongside the joy of finding community and connections amid magic and adventure.
I could tell you more but really, please, read a sample. It will convince you whether this is a story for you. I hope you find as much joy in it as I did (and will when I definitely reread).
(I'm posting this same review on both the first and second book.)
You know I’m still not really sure how j feel about this series after reading it.
Don’t get me wrong it was a great series but probably one not for me I think. This is a seriously personal preference but I found myself not really liking the FMC all that much. Her sister Kylie however is definitely more my speed and I found myself wishing it would have been her as the FMC instead. I love all the monsters though! I will admit though that Morgan did in fact show some character development as well as come into her own just not enough for my liking.
I’m giving this series 4 stars still because even while I didn’t like a major part of this series it was more so due to my personal preference than any problem I had with the series as a whole. If you love monsters and enjoy more subdued FMC’s then this series is 100% for you!
This book was every monster lovers dream you have the female lead Morgan who was raised being abused by her mother thinking she was mentally unstable when she is able to see her monsters the gargoyle, satyr, kraken, and Minotaur. When her grandmother is on her deathbed she goes back to England. Then things take her for her when she starts to realize that she was set up to feel crazy but has a much bigger purpose then she knew. She learns her mother, uncle, and cousins have conspired to keep her from fulfilling her destiny and she has to go through a lot of trails to free her monster in the end. This story was the book I will measure all future monster stories against I’m the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Some witchy monster goodness!!! Fully packed with strong emotions, love to love and some easy to hate characters!! Excellent twist of witch and warlock lore. Sam Hall spins an awesome tale of monsters and witches that are soul locked together with much needed steamy scenes a touch of BDSM and tons of love and life!! Enough emotion to shake up the reader a bit but all comes neatly together! This was a roller coaster ride of a story, well worth the read!! This second part was insanity at best really hard to read but so very worth it at the end truly I wanted to hurt some characters in this second part but there was excellent karma effect for them so all is right with the witchy world! Great closer to an awesome story many thanks to Sam Hall for treating us all to this world!!
This book does a great job of defining the roles of the characters. The pacing is of the story works. I don’t feel like anything dragged on. I didn’t feel like I had to skip over parts.
The book starts with the relationship between Morgan, Maddox and Jasper. The push and pull between Maddox and Jasper is amazing. You could feel the angst of the characters as Morgan tries to get to the bottom of their issues.
The middle of the book involves Morgan having to learn how to perform magic. The author does a wonderful job of explaining how magic works in her world. The emotions involved caused some tears to happen.
The ending is good too. It isn’t rushed. Things get resolved in a thorough way. Overall, another great book by Sam Hall.
Make sure you’ve read Part 1 of Fighting Monsters because this picks up immediately after. I spent so much of this Part 2 on the edge of my seat and about to throw my phone. Morgan continues to grow and develop her powers as she builds her connections with her men, human and “monster.” It’s so difficult to see how bitter, and evil family can be to each other, and how low petty men can stoop to feel important. I loved how Morgan gained all the magic she needed to regain Rosemead and protect the forest. The action felt like two steps forward and one step back, which created an emotional roller coaster both for the characters and reader. My heart was crushed along with Morgan’s and, thankfully, slowly stitched back together. I absolutely loved the twists and turns, and the resolution. I’m begging for at least a novella of follow up, because I need to see a bit more. ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wow, loved this book, perfect ending for this duet. This time we see Morgan and her men go on such a crazy wild journey of betrayal, family chaos, curses and absolutely horrible discoveries. I was honestly moved to tears numerous times through this book, it’s that well written you won’t be able to put it down until the very last word. I love the history in this book and how Sam explains it in such fine detail - the power, magic, the land. All the complex factors that mix into this story - gaining this knowledge allows you to really understand how these factors impact the overall storyline. I was overjoyed that there was a happy ending for Morgan, it was a long bumpy adventure but glad they got there in the end.