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Steel & Thunder #4

Arenas & Monsters

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David might have forgiven him, but can he forgive himself?

Sacrificial cults, giant man-eating serpents, even ghosts - Khazak has seen it all lately, but with his avakesh David by his side, he knows they can weather any storm that blows their way. After unexpectedly doubling the size of their group and making a brief detour to the ruins of the ancient elven city of Karthani, things are finally back on track. As long as they keep following the road north, they’ll reach their destination in no time. The group just has to keep the stops they make and the trouble they cause to a minimum. Easy, right?

David's been doing great. He’s got Khazak, his friends, and he's even been able to reconnect with his twin brother, Michael. Now all he needs is for things to stay on track, and once they reach Maname they’ll hopefully be able to figure out the strange things that have been happening since that fateful night in the Temple of Zeus. But of course, nothing is that simple, and when danger rears its ugly head, it not only puts his relationship with Khazak at risk, but threatens to reveal the dark truth of how they really met to everyone.

This book is filled with laughs, adventure, would-be royalty, werewolves, and ridiculous costumes! Go on a journey with Khazak, David, and their friends as they continue their treacherous quest and explore more of the dangerous and magical world around them. If you like to read gay/male-on-male romances with Dom/sub elements, kinky relationships, and BDSM, give this story a try!

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First published February 20, 2023

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About the author

Dominic N. Ashen

10 books143 followers
Dominic N. Ashen is an award-winning author and avid reader, with a focus on gay, BDSM-themed erotica. After spending his youth in search of books with characters who were more like himself - queer ones, specifically - he decided to start creating some of his own. His first book, Steel & Thunder, was published in 2021, and was named a Distinguished Favorite in the 2021 NYC Big Book Awards. His stories star queer protagonists, most often gay and bisexual men, and feature themes of dominance, submission, and all sorts of kinks. Dominic loves the fantasy, sci-fi, and horror genres and has a penchant for writing longer stories where he is able to weave in the sex and kink right alongside the plot.

Patreon: https://patreon.com/dominicashen
Newsletter (18+): http://eepurl.com/he5x-X
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DomNAshen
Instagram: https://instagram.com/dom.n.ashen/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/dom.n.ashen/
Website: https://dominicashen.com/

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5 stars
80 (59%)
4 stars
39 (29%)
3 stars
13 (9%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Ronie Reads.
1,627 reviews30 followers
July 30, 2023
I went in expecting and explanation for the ritual and its meaning. A reason why an Olympian requires a return of power. Was it a return too power? Only for more side quests.

Dang Nate! The traveler they met at the tavern. I knew he had a secret. Noble as it was! But still ya could have warned them. Ya got them arrested, in the first place. That was the perfect opportunity to tell them.

Then an elf asked for help. Talk about heart reiching. Then there were werewolves!

I knew the "sharing" was going to bite Tersak in the balls. Ha! Cause David took one for the team. Too bad the agreement was broken. They should have called him an oath breaker. Wait was that a dragon?

Anyway Richardson is in a lot of trouble, of his own making.

Just when I got use to this extended group. I wonder what will happen next.

Will more travel explain about David's heritage. Tersak wants children (So who will be the aunt or will they adopt?) Is Michael really not gong to take his relationship with the elvish noblelady to the next level. Will Sara forgive Nate? Please let this be the last they hear of the Briar Guild. Bunch of butt holes!

Addam is still a problem.
Profile Image for Caroline.
264 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2025
I've been looking forward to reading this book and it did not disappoint me. Just like the previous 3 books, this one was amazing. You never know what will happen next. I can't wait for the 5th book!
4 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2023
Content warning: Non-graphic mentions of abuse

The saga of Khazak and David continues in the fourth book of the Steel & Thunder series. This review contains spoilers for the first 3 books, which contain important backstory. You should definitely have read them!

Having inadvertently added a few extra members to their party in Secrets & Spires , our adventurers now continue on their journey. They're bound for Manamequohi, in search of answers to the circumstances surrounding There's also the matter of acquiring

Along the way, our friends are pursued by mercenaries, get into some hot drama, and have even hotter sex while pursuing the inevitable side quest. It's another Dominic N. Ashen special, and he serves it up just right.

Khazak is our narrator for most of this book, and we explore some of the guilt he feels around the circumstances that led to his relationship with David. I preface this by saying that I adore Khazak and am a champion of his relationship -- but upon reviewing those initial details, a strong argument can be made that It's a tough pill to swallow.

Meanwhile, David's twin Michael has been struggling to accept the revelation that his brother is gay. Predictably, he then discovers the "slave" aspect of the relationship and flips out. The ensuing arguments are revealing, and frustratingly familiar to those of us who have had to defend who we are in the face of family members who refuse to even listen to us. They also spur Khazak to introspectively revisit his first few weeks with David.

I'm conflicted here. Khaz and David are so perfect for each other, they love each other. Their actions show this, as do their inner monologues. I'm troubled by Khazak's early actions, not believing David and taking him regardless of the murky circumstances. I think that was wrong, but I totally get that their relationship wouldn't exist had David not been forced to discover his homosexuality under quite dubious consent.

Khazak is clearly remorseful for this, and his subsequent treatment of David proves it. The relationship that resulted, while non-traditional by vanilla societal standards, is full of love and care. It's a pleasure to witness it. The perfectionist in me wishes things could have started naturally, but I'm fully invested in their happiness and future success.

Amid the drama and chaos, Ashen once again treats us to rich, vividly detailed locales that almost take you there. After putting the book down, I'm still thinking about and reliving it. And yeah...still not interested in wearing a chastity cage, but I'm far more on board with the idea of being "owned" by a smart, sexy orc. And maybe spanked, just a little. That's progress!

My one complaint would be the last line of the book. Dominic, you rat bastard. Now I eagerly await part five, and it's gonna be torture. I guess this pup will just have to learn a little patience.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. As a fan of this series, I've also purchased a retail copy to support the author.
Profile Image for Lindsey.
10 reviews
February 21, 2023
The first book had us excited to read about steamy BDSM play and positive gay representation, of which Dominic is fantastic at. However, his incredibly life-like characters, realistic relationships and masterful world building have made us fall in love with his storytelling. Don't get me wrong, the sexy bits are still just as hot in the 4th book as they were in the 1st. What sets his writing apart from the rest of the fantasy genre for me is his amazing ability to explain things going on, be it some new information or a bit of magical science, in a way that is seamless and doesn't make the reader feel stupid. No over-seer type narration here. Dominic's explanations and new information fit perfectly in normal conversations or thoughts among those involved without needing a shoehorned conversation that breaks the realism of the world he's built. 10/10 would recommend.
Profile Image for K-Me.
3,133 reviews
February 6, 2023
I absolutely adore David and his orc Khazak. I was so glad to see that we continue to get Khazak's POV in this latest addition to the series. These two give me so many warm feelings while the world building and plot give us adventure. Khazak adores David and it just makes me smile. I will say though they have some steamy loving too. I feel like I am in the world with these two just as they are pictured on the covers. I love this world, David, Khazak and all of their friends.
Profile Image for Amanda.
402 reviews
July 21, 2023
I am in love with this series and cannot put the book down when I start. Yes, it's an erotic/BDSM story with some very nice smut but it's also so much more then that. It has wonderful magical elements and character development. Love how these two men are growing into their relationship and although it's different from what David's family expects it is still okay. Wonderful, well thought out characters. Love these books!
1,316 reviews5 followers
February 22, 2023
Arenas & Monsters is the fourth Book in the Steel and Thunder Series. I didn't know what I was getting into when I chose this book. I'd read the first one awhile back and chose this one out of curiosity. I was not disappointed. This was a wonderfully entertaining read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for David Smith.
7 reviews
February 23, 2023
I enjoyed this much more than the previous entry. I was thrilled to finally see resolution between David and his brother. Also the internal guilt That Khazak was dealing with his past treatment of David being compared to the primary villain of this entry brilliant. I can't wait for for more adventures in Terra in the future. Bravo Dominic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
673 reviews9 followers
February 25, 2023
The journey and the story continues for Khazak, David and the rest if the gang, and what adventures befall them on the way.

This series captures your attention and takes you along for the ride. The characters, the story, the writing, everything. I LOVE IT

Highly recommended
Profile Image for David.
2,565 reviews91 followers
February 5, 2023
Dominic Ashen returns with the fifth book in the series (including an unmissable, highly erotic, and amusing novella). A new book from Mr. Ashen is a cause for celebration and his readers will be pleased to know that this new one sits admirably alongside his earlier successes. Books one and two of the main series are told from David's perspective. The third book took a new angle, telling the story from his partner Khazak's perspective. Arenas and Monsters is the second part of Khazak's story.

While the story happily takes twists and turns you might not expect, the author's strengths remain strong and growing. The characters are real, living and breathing, and full of life. The more we know David and Khazak and their friends, the more loveable they are. The humor, the charm, the pacing, the plotting, the world-building, and the sex scenes (and romance) are all impeccable. I'd love to dive into a discussion of the second half of the novel when it hits some meaty beats, but I think I'll let you discover what happens there on your own.

If you are interested in maybe starting to read this series, I can tell you, that as a reader five books into it, you're going to love it. I am a huge fan of gay orc/human romance erotica literature. I've read everything I can find in that subgenre and Dominic Ashen's take on it is the best that there is. There just isn't anything that tops this series. It's a marvelous (and continuing adventure) that I cannot wait to see where Mr. Ashen takes David and Khazak next.
Profile Image for KingofKindles (Brandon).
16 reviews
February 23, 2023
As always, Dominic Ashen has wrote a wonderful story! I have been (not so) patiently waiting for this book since March of 2022. Dominic’s writing is fun, thorough, and incredibly sexy. The plot is captivating, the characters are complex, and the imagery of the locations are very well thought out!

I have been following this author since Steel & Thunder first released and his imagination and writing has won me over as a forever fan. I look forward to reading everything Dominic has to offer!
Profile Image for Becca.
348 reviews
February 26, 2023
I love this series so much; it has a lot of my favourite things - a high fantasy setting, established couple, a human/ non-human pairing, and a well developed BDSM relationship.

Like the last book, this is from Khazak's pov, with just one David chapter.

The dub-con elements of the first book was the only thing that really put me off in the first book, but I really liked how this has been handled in the other books, and in this one - Khazak does feel remorse over the way their relationship started, and his role in it, and does take responsibility.

I also like how all the side characters are well developed, and contribute to the story - it is a large cast, but the book doesn't feel bogged down by all the characters.

I can't wait to see what happens next; I found this series at the tail end of last year, so I was very happy to get my hands on book 4 so quickly - hopefully book 5 will be here soon!
Profile Image for Tosha.
267 reviews6 followers
June 11, 2026
“David looks to me as we are led away, worry and regret in his eyes. I find that I am regretting a few things myself, like not taking the time to tell him how much I loved him while I had the chance. As soon as we are back together, I am going to do just that. Right before I spank him.”

This book was absolutely amazing; seriously each instalment in this series just gets better. By this point Khazak & David have been through something (to say the least!) Some things bringing them closer together while other experiences threaten to pull them apart forever if they don’t deal with them. Khazak understanding this, but persistently sticking his foot in his mouth and David head strong and impetuous made me want to shake them both and then give them a hug. Just like the other books in this series, this book was HOT and kinky as hell, but I really loved that the author had these two work on healing from those traumatic experiences.

Aside from my absolute love of Khazak & David, which is borderline obsessive, this book has everything I could ask for in a epic fantasy. New lands, treacherous quest, making friends (and plenty of enemies 😉), questionable royalty, lots of spectacular magic, battling to the death, betrayal, plenty of laughs and a terrifying ghoul!

If I could I’d give this book 6 stars! I cannot possibly recommend it enough.
Profile Image for Rani.
314 reviews
February 28, 2023
This is the fourth book in the series and it was great getting to visit Khazak and David again. Looking forward to the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,244 reviews53 followers
January 6, 2023
Dominic Ashen is an incredible writer, an incredible storyteller. I don't like BDSM but with his writing, I don't mind it. I might actually enjoy it but only with his stories.

I couldn't wait to start reading Arenas and Monsters, the forth book in the Steel and Thunder series. As soon as I saw it, it was a no-brainer, I had to grab it right away. I missed Khazak and David and Adam and Lisa and the rest of the gang. David is just so lovable. And I adore how Khazak just adore him.

And of course, in addition to the amazing characters, there's the gripping plot. I just couldn't put it down. I had to read every word that made me laugh out loud, made me squirm, made me hot, made me guessing, made me clench up, and just made me happy!

I just want more from this author!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
9 reviews
July 30, 2023
Honestly, I started reading this series for the hot, Orc-on-human sex. Over the 4 books, Dominic has truly created a world and plot line I am deeply invested in. As an avid lover of both BDSM and D&D, this book scratches every brain itch I want in a Romance-Fantasy novel.
Profile Image for Juniper.
3,504 reviews24 followers
February 26, 2023
This book continues the adventures, and relationship, of Khazak and David, and it’s a good idea, if you haven’t already, to start at the beginning. The more I read in this series, the more I like it, and this installment in the saga did nothing to deter me from my affection for the characters, the world building, and the awesome blend of adventure, steam and emotion that characterizes the series as a whole. I won’t even try to describe the plot of this one here— it’s a lot, and worth experiencing on it’s own terms, but I do want to spotlight how much relationship and character development there is: the more we see of David and Khazak’s relationship, the more they reckon with how it started and how others might perceive it, the more nuance and depth their bond gains. It’s clear they care for each other, and I love that for both of them. I also…really want to read the next book, after the ending to this one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mark Menard.
244 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2024
A Memorable Journey
David and Khazan continue their journey north with their team heading to Maname to get answers to what actually happened to David in the Temple of Zeus. You would hope that their journey would be uneventful and if you don’t count being robbed by a fae, chased by mercenaries, captured by a self-proclaimed prince and forced to fight lions and a werewolf then yes, their journey was uneventful.
I really do love the characters in this series. David, Khazan and the team are relatable, funny, and just a little bit weird. But their friendship helps them to handle anything that comes their way.
This story is full of ups and downs and plenty of surprises. And the ending was perfect to lead to another book in the series. I am really looking forward to continuing the journey with this eclectic team of friends.
I highly recommend this book and series.
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
3,268 reviews21 followers
February 27, 2023
It's hard not to give the author his due in this well written series of novels. He does a great job of telling a story about a couple - David and Khazak, whose beginnings are a bit dubious but who grow into a committed loving couple over the course of the series. It is clear by the point of this story that David wants his brother to like and get along with his partner. He is not having any lingering doubts about them as a committed pair. Khazak when faced with meeting the family, so to speak is reflective about how things began between them but not sorry that they are where they are. And together they work with their increasingly growing band to not only resolve a mystery but to survive their journey with the least amount of unpleasant surprises.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,600 reviews8 followers
February 28, 2023
Ok, so I thought this was going to be the last book in the Steel and Thunder series. Surprise, it's not. That's the only spoiler you're going to get from me. (LOL). This is book 4 in a continuing series, and the books definitely need to be read in order. They are fun and funny, with plenty of adventure, danger, drama, and surprises. I love the orc, Khazak, and his lover/former slave, the human, David. I'm not really into the Dom/sub, BDMS thing, but I enjoy this couple, their companions, and their quest and adventure. There is some hot sex, laughs and fun banter, some family disagreement/judgement, some personal angst and regret, and plenty of orc-human love. I love this series and the endearing characters the author has created. No matter how many more books are coming, I am along for the ride.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,958 reviews26 followers
July 17, 2025
I am loving reading the adventures of Khazak and David and I think this is my favorite Orc and human series of books. Dominic N Ashen is a master at getting the balance right in his plots. That is something that hardly anyone comments on, but it’s so important to the way the story flows. There is so much going on in this book and a fair amount of darkish moments that if there was not things like humor, inner thoughts and spice to balance those then the book could just be a drag to read. Mr Ashen gets so much right in this book not just the balance and even things like names that sound foreign but also are easy to read and remember receive his attention to detail. The whole series is a rollicking great time and I think it deserves to be more well known. Read in order!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Emma Collins.
Author 4 books5 followers
November 19, 2024
Arenas & Monsters by Dominic N. Ashen is a thrilling mix of danger, humor, and heartfelt romance. Khazak and David's bond continues to shine as they navigate a world filled with magical creatures, ancient cities, and unexpected allies. The stakes feel higher than ever, with secrets threatening to unravel and challenges testing their relationship and resilience. The blend of action, quirky humor, and steamy Dom/sub dynamics keeps the story engaging, while the ensemble cast adds depth and charm. Perfect for fans of adventurous fantasy with a spicy and heartfelt queer romance at its core.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amber.
1,749 reviews6 followers
December 29, 2024
I loved Arenas & Monsters by Dominic N. Ashen. It's the fourth book in the Steel & Thunder series. I loved the continuation of David and Khazak's story. I can't get enough of these two and their friends. I recommend reading the other books in the series before reading this one. Otherwise, you might get lost as to why they are on their journey, trying to catch up to Redwing and discover what happened to David in the temple when he saved Nylan from being sacrificed. The book does end in a cliffhanger, and I can't wait for the next book to come out and continue their story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
151 reviews
March 1, 2025
The fourth book in the series that unfolds the story of Khazak and David. In this book, we continue to experience the gang's adventures on their way to understand how David was resurrected and the effects of that. Along the way they meet more friends, including David's twin, Michael (I must say he was a bit annoying and judgmental towards Khazak and David's relationship), fight new monsters, and continue with their heroic deeds. Of course, the story is spiced up with sex and kink scenes for some good time.
Waiting for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
6,423 reviews110 followers
February 8, 2026
Book 4 of the Steel & Thunder series. For maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.

'This book is filled with laughs, adventure, would-be royalty, werewolves, and ridiculous costumes!'

The plot evolves and hooks the reader. World building continues to excel and be solidly drawn. The characters continue to grow and fascinate and are still perfectly steamy together. A great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and thoroughly and highly recommend this series.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rachel Emily.
4,594 reviews405 followers
February 7, 2024
I absolutely love this world that the author has created. It's fun, sexy, rich in fantasy vibes, great characters and a D&D feel but just add in kinky orcs and steam.

You definitely have to read this series in order, as each story follows our main couple and all the shenanigans that they (ahem, David) gets into lol.

I love the world building and the continued expansion of the storytelling. And I just love Khazak and David together so, so much. This truly is an under appreciated series that I want more people to get on their radar!
Profile Image for Deb Kel.
2,988 reviews11 followers
May 16, 2024
If you haven't read previous books in this series- stop- read them first. Honestly not only are you missing out on some fantastic books but you really need them to understand the characters and all their foibles. This is another epic journey for David and Khazak and along the way, they are pursued by mercenaries, get into some hot drama, and have even hotter sex! I really don't want to give anything away so please read it, you will be glad you did!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Becca.
3,301 reviews48 followers
August 15, 2024
Such a great story and series. The characters are so great. I don't know if I could pick a favorite but David & Riley would probably be the top two. I love their energy and spirit. And of course Sona...she's the best lol. It was a little sad at the end but each have their things they need to do and grow. And grow they did. I love seeing their journeys. They make mistakes but learn and move on. Such great books!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
141 reviews15 followers
September 6, 2024
This author is fun, but I think he’s a better erotica author than a novelist at this point. Like, it’s not true that he’s writing a porn serial where every chapter needs a good fuck, but it’s close, and the chapters without are … not as good? And he’s great at sex writing, and even does so with a satisfyingly queer sensibility that is missing in too much of this genre. I almost wonder whether a collaboration between him and a more experienced novelist might give him a good push in the right direction

All that said, I really liked David’s remote controlled plug. Well done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews