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Monsters in the Mountains #3
Monster's Prey
I wasn’t looking for a mate, but I’m keeping her now that I’ve found her.
My mate died, but somehow, I survived, and my body didn't get the message that I don't want to go into heat.
My brother nursed me back to health, but now I've become a bargaining chip.
A walk in the woods to enjoy my last moments of freedom before being forced to mate a new alpha almost becomes the last moments of my life. The only thing more terrifying than the bear trying to kill me, is the monster who prevents it from doing so.
He's different enough I don't feel like I'm betraying my lost mate when he declares he's keeping me for himself, and there's a connection I can't deny.
Why wouldn't I let him claim me as his prey?
This story is currently available in the Monsters Before Men anthology until November.
My mate died, but somehow, I survived, and my body didn't get the message that I don't want to go into heat.
My brother nursed me back to health, but now I've become a bargaining chip.
A walk in the woods to enjoy my last moments of freedom before being forced to mate a new alpha almost becomes the last moments of my life. The only thing more terrifying than the bear trying to kill me, is the monster who prevents it from doing so.
He's different enough I don't feel like I'm betraying my lost mate when he declares he's keeping me for himself, and there's a connection I can't deny.
Why wouldn't I let him claim me as his prey?
This story is currently available in the Monsters Before Men anthology until November.
43 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2023
About the author
Leann Ryans
81 books452 followersWife and mother of four, my days have been reduced to begging for the littlest to sleep so I can have time to write my books. I'm blaming my reduced schedule on Cupcake.
Facebook is the best place to find me, or you can sign up for my newsletter here (https://leannryans.com) to keep up with current and upcoming projects as well as special promotions and such, or find me on Ream!
I grew up on Sci-fi and Fantasy books with some of my favorite authors being Anne McCaffery and Mercedes Lackey. In 2013 I discovered paranormal romance and delved into a whole new world. After reading Omegaverse stories from Addison Cain and Nora Ash, I had the idea for The Omega Prize and decided to take a shot at writing a book of my own. The beginning was rough, it took two months to write the first five chapters, but as my 2019 New Year’s resolution I said I was going to finish the story and committed to writing every day. It didn't take long for the book to begin telling itself, and from there I just kept going.
All of my books are Omegaverse, but they span settings from Sci-Fi, dystopian, and historical barbarians. There is even a small-town Enemies to Lovers Romance story in there. They main contain dark elements but I wouldn't call them dark romance since my alphas tend to be a little mushy in the center. I promise there's always a HEA.
Facebook is the best place to find me, or you can sign up for my newsletter here (https://leannryans.com) to keep up with current and upcoming projects as well as special promotions and such, or find me on Ream!
I grew up on Sci-fi and Fantasy books with some of my favorite authors being Anne McCaffery and Mercedes Lackey. In 2013 I discovered paranormal romance and delved into a whole new world. After reading Omegaverse stories from Addison Cain and Nora Ash, I had the idea for The Omega Prize and decided to take a shot at writing a book of my own. The beginning was rough, it took two months to write the first five chapters, but as my 2019 New Year’s resolution I said I was going to finish the story and committed to writing every day. It didn't take long for the book to begin telling itself, and from there I just kept going.
All of my books are Omegaverse, but they span settings from Sci-Fi, dystopian, and historical barbarians. There is even a small-town Enemies to Lovers Romance story in there. They main contain dark elements but I wouldn't call them dark romance since my alphas tend to be a little mushy in the center. I promise there's always a HEA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 15, 2023
Nala, an omega widow, ventures into the woods and is in danger from a bear when monstrous Av'dag comes to the rescue. The alpha scents her and after a little primal play carries her off to his cave with a perfect spot for her to nest as he claims her as his. Loved how Nala was able to find a second chance at happiness in her life after having lost her first mate and her sentiment for Av'dag… "He might be my second mate, my second chance, but he wasn’t a second choice." Sweet and spicy second chance, monster-human omegaverse quickie.
July 19, 2024
It's basically just a sex scene with a bit of character description to give it context. But I appreciate that both are a little older, closer to middle-aged, and despite the 'claiming what he caught' aspect, it feels consent-positive. I liked it better than the first, which is the only other in the series I've currently read.
March 8, 2026
Grief left her broken, but he awakened instincts and primal desires.
Nala thought she understood loss until her first mate was gone, leaving her vulnerable and aching. Alone in the forest and caught between grief and the pull of her body, she faces a threat she cannot outrun. Every step draws her closer to danger and desire, her instincts telling her she is prey, but not for long.
When Av'dag appears, a predator unlike any she's known, everything shifts. He saves her from certain death, but claiming her goes beyond protection. His dominance is undeniable, and his patience tests her hesitations, pushing her toward a bond as consuming as it is awakening.
As Nala navigates fear, attraction, and trust, she discovers that surrendering is not weakness. With every touch, growl, and whispered command, she learns that love can be dark, consuming, and transformative. Together, they find power, desire, and connection in a world where instinct drives hearts and bodies toward a second chance.
Nala grows from a grieving and hesitant omega into a woman who embraces her instincts and desires. Av'dag evolves from a solitary, dominant alpha into a patient, emotionally attuned, and protective mate. Their bond shifts from fear and tension to a connected, passionate partnership.
A dark, ultra-steamy monster romance about grief, survival, and desire, where a woman learns to trust and bond with a new alpha, reclaiming her instincts and embracing a consuming connection that transforms fear and loss, into intimacy and fulfillment.
The Elevator Pitch: An omega haunted by loss finds herself caught between instinct and survival when a powerful, otherworldly alpha predator claims her. His dominance challenges her fears while awakening desires she thought were buried forever. As trust builds in the shadow of danger, they forge a bond that is as consuming as it is transformative.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
Audio: Narrator Daniel Buttrey's performance brings Nala's vulnerability and Av'dag's dominance to life with clarity and depth. He navigates ultra-steamy, intimate moments with confidence, making every exchange feel charged and precise. Each character is distinct, and the listening experience is dark and immersive.
Nala thought she understood loss until her first mate was gone, leaving her vulnerable and aching. Alone in the forest and caught between grief and the pull of her body, she faces a threat she cannot outrun. Every step draws her closer to danger and desire, her instincts telling her she is prey, but not for long.
When Av'dag appears, a predator unlike any she's known, everything shifts. He saves her from certain death, but claiming her goes beyond protection. His dominance is undeniable, and his patience tests her hesitations, pushing her toward a bond as consuming as it is awakening.
As Nala navigates fear, attraction, and trust, she discovers that surrendering is not weakness. With every touch, growl, and whispered command, she learns that love can be dark, consuming, and transformative. Together, they find power, desire, and connection in a world where instinct drives hearts and bodies toward a second chance.
Nala grows from a grieving and hesitant omega into a woman who embraces her instincts and desires. Av'dag evolves from a solitary, dominant alpha into a patient, emotionally attuned, and protective mate. Their bond shifts from fear and tension to a connected, passionate partnership.
A dark, ultra-steamy monster romance about grief, survival, and desire, where a woman learns to trust and bond with a new alpha, reclaiming her instincts and embracing a consuming connection that transforms fear and loss, into intimacy and fulfillment.
The Elevator Pitch: An omega haunted by loss finds herself caught between instinct and survival when a powerful, otherworldly alpha predator claims her. His dominance challenges her fears while awakening desires she thought were buried forever. As trust builds in the shadow of danger, they forge a bond that is as consuming as it is transformative.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
Audio: Narrator Daniel Buttrey's performance brings Nala's vulnerability and Av'dag's dominance to life with clarity and depth. He navigates ultra-steamy, intimate moments with confidence, making every exchange feel charged and precise. Each character is distinct, and the listening experience is dark and immersive.
November 24, 2023
Nalla lost her Alpha Nearden and lived with her brother and his Beta wife for a while. Both were shocked that she survived her mates death since she is an Omega. Her brother has set her up with an Alpha named Edar, but do to the harvest it will take at least two more days before he can come get her. Her brother and mate decide they will go to market while Nalla stays home, readying herself. She goes out and a “monster” finds her, Av’dag. He is older than Mel’cam and Mel’ar who have taken human Omegas as mates. While hunting down an old bear, Av’dag finds Nalla. I find Av’dag funny, calling her little rabbit. But he is almost a lot nicer than some of the human Alphas. After a bit of adventure, Nalla chooses to stay with Av’dag who then claims her. I found the story to be a little bit of almost everything, emotionally. It was a little bit too short, tho. I can’t wait for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 25, 2023
This short story offers a welcome look at an older omega and alpha. Nala is a widow, and as an omega it’s imperative that she find an alpha to help her through her heats. She isn’t that enthused about the alpha that her brother found for her, but she doesn’t expect to repeat the true love she found with her first mate. But nature has a way of giving you what you deserve sometimes, and that’s what Nala finds.
I enjoyed this second-chance story. I loved that Ryans addressed how rare it was that Nala survived her mate’s passing and how unusual it was that her heats returned, as these are two tropes of omegaverse. And her meeting with Av’dag was cleverly handled. But I wished there was more to establish them as a couple. They basically didn’t talk before they were mated. That’s the limitation of a short story for you. But if you want a quick, fun omegaverse read with an unusual focus for the leads, this is a great pick-me-up of a story for you.
I enjoyed this second-chance story. I loved that Ryans addressed how rare it was that Nala survived her mate’s passing and how unusual it was that her heats returned, as these are two tropes of omegaverse. And her meeting with Av’dag was cleverly handled. But I wished there was more to establish them as a couple. They basically didn’t talk before they were mated. That’s the limitation of a short story for you. But if you want a quick, fun omegaverse read with an unusual focus for the leads, this is a great pick-me-up of a story for you.
November 13, 2023
Nala, the female omega lead, is approaching her first full heat since her mate died. Her brother has organised an alpha for her but she doesn’t like or trust him. Savouring her last days of freedom, she wanders the forest and Av’Dag, the male alpha lead, saves her from a diseased bear before stealing her away and claiming her. Feeling comfortable with him in a way that she doesn’t with any other alpha, she happily returns the claim…
This short story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a great piece of work - how this contained a full introduction, claim, and emotional connection in such a short piece of work is a true example of craft. I’m really enjoying this world and hoping the author will start writing longer stories in it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This short story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a great piece of work - how this contained a full introduction, claim, and emotional connection in such a short piece of work is a true example of craft. I’m really enjoying this world and hoping the author will start writing longer stories in it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2023
Nala has resigned herself to the choice her brother has made for her after caring and nurturing her back to health with the lost of her Alpha mate. And yet, she isn't looking forward to this decision.
Av'dag wants what his brothers have found, Omega mates to call their own with a chance for a future family. Imagine his surprise when he stumbles upon Nala in distress from the very bear he is hunting down.
This was a rather quick read, much shorter than the other's in this series but it was still enjoyable. Both Nala and Av'dag's fears and hopes for the future are things we all can relate too. Nala being a widow was definitely different but a good change to let us see a different side of the dynamic, which isn't usually positive with the death of a mate within an Alpha-Omega pairing.
Av'dag wants what his brothers have found, Omega mates to call their own with a chance for a future family. Imagine his surprise when he stumbles upon Nala in distress from the very bear he is hunting down.
This was a rather quick read, much shorter than the other's in this series but it was still enjoyable. Both Nala and Av'dag's fears and hopes for the future are things we all can relate too. Nala being a widow was definitely different but a good change to let us see a different side of the dynamic, which isn't usually positive with the death of a mate within an Alpha-Omega pairing.
December 3, 2024
I didn’t start with book 1 in this series, so not sure if by starting with book 1 I might’ve had more understanding of this story or not. 🤷🏼♀️ - That being said, I really enjoyed this short book, but wish a little more world building/backstory had been present. I felt thrown into a story that was already in motion (maybe if I’d read books 1 & 2, it would feel different? Not sure). Despite feeling thrown into the middle of a story, I kept going and really wound up liking it! She’s an omega that has lost her mate, but she gets a second chance with an alpha monster who saves her from a bear attack while she’s in heat. There’s lots of nesting, being in heat, and it gets pretty spicy at the end with some kn0tting as well. Spice level 2.5/5. This was a good monster short story for those wanting middle aged MC’s.
November 13, 2023
The third story in the series, this book showcases a more mature couple. Nala had lost her Alpha and had a broken bond, but she survived. Living with her brother and his Beta wife, she is awaiting being given to a new Alpha. When Av'dag shows up hunting a feral bear and saves her life she makes the decision to pick her fate. She's attracted to the Alpha and he's already done more to endear himself to her. This is her second chance to possibly have a good life and children and she's not going to let a little thing like horns get in her way. Av'dag has seen his brother mate with human Omegas and never thought that option was available to him, but Nala shows him it's never too late. Great HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2023
This one is for the golden girls
This story is enchanting and shows that there is life after loss. Nala lost her husband and survived the broken bond. Her brother and his b!tc8y wife take her in. Her brother selects Edar as Nala’s new husband, who isn’t a great prize, but Nala accepts that. She needs to leave. When her brother and wife take a short trip to town, Nala decides to take a walk. Daydreaming puts in the path of a sick bear. Sure, that she is about to die she freezes. A monster that has been tracking the sick bear comes to her rescue. Av’dag doesn’t understand what she is doing out there but decides she is his. And Nala also thinks he is her’s. You need to read the book. It’s a quick read and I absolutely loved it.
This story is enchanting and shows that there is life after loss. Nala lost her husband and survived the broken bond. Her brother and his b!tc8y wife take her in. Her brother selects Edar as Nala’s new husband, who isn’t a great prize, but Nala accepts that. She needs to leave. When her brother and wife take a short trip to town, Nala decides to take a walk. Daydreaming puts in the path of a sick bear. Sure, that she is about to die she freezes. A monster that has been tracking the sick bear comes to her rescue. Av’dag doesn’t understand what she is doing out there but decides she is his. And Nala also thinks he is her’s. You need to read the book. It’s a quick read and I absolutely loved it.
November 20, 2023
I love how this one has kinda an older couple. Nala has been previously mated and her brothers mate is pushing to get her out of their house by finding her another Alpha to get mated too. I couldn't stand her brothers mate. . . She was very judgemental. I loved Av'dag. He was willing to help a bear and protect humans even tho they didn't really know about them. I also loved how Nala kinda saved herself by leaving her brother's house during the beginning of her heat. The way these 2 meet is interesting and I love how they click right from the start.
November 24, 2023
This was a great omegaverse romance. Nala lost her first mate to an illness and her brother has arranged for her to marry another alpha. She wasn't that interested but knew a heat was coming on. While on a walk in the woods to enjoy a last moment of freedom, she encounters a bear...and Av'dag. He is an alpha monster and happily rescues her. Very quickly, these two find they're more than compatible and the steam sparked between them quickly. This may be a shorter read but it was a wonderful second chance romance with great world building and I'll enjoy diving into it again and again :D
November 25, 2023
Nala is a shell of the woman she used to be. Loosing her mate has caused her so much suffering. She's merely existing not living. Her brother has arranged and you mating to an alpha that is not particularly Pleasant. So when she wanders off into the woods subconsciously trying to escape is she ends up in the arms of a quote unquote monster. But he's no more of a monster than she is meaning not at all. Av'dag gives her the chance to live again. Live on her own terms not her brothers or his cruel mate.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 15, 2023
She had no chance. I knew it. She could feel it. But she had to run anyway, and I had to chase. And when I caught her… She would be mine.
Nala and Av'dag were so perfect together. He was her second chance at having a mate and he wanted her above all else. Such a sweet second-chance romance. Nala wanted to escape and run away and this monster was more than happy to take and claim her as his. Loved this short and steamy read!
Nala and Av'dag were so perfect together. He was her second chance at having a mate and he wanted her above all else. Such a sweet second-chance romance. Nala wanted to escape and run away and this monster was more than happy to take and claim her as his. Loved this short and steamy read!
November 19, 2023
This was the story that started it all for me, with this author. I had read it in an anthology a bit ago, and have been hankering for a re-read for a minute, now.
I’d call this work ABO-lite. All the nesting, purring and other omegaverse fun, but without the über dark (to me) parts. Perfect. I’ve been eagerly following this series, and author, since and have enjoyed everything.
I recommend this book, series and author.
I’d call this work ABO-lite. All the nesting, purring and other omegaverse fun, but without the über dark (to me) parts. Perfect. I’ve been eagerly following this series, and author, since and have enjoyed everything.
I recommend this book, series and author.
November 26, 2023
Second Chance for a Mate . . .
Nala, who is going into heat, enters the woods and finds Av’dag who notices her situation. Nala did not want another mate after her mate died, so she has no choice but to run away or accept her brother’s choices for her. Av’dag saves her from a feral bear attack, but Av’dag will not allow her to escape him and takes her back to his cave to make her his. Will she accept the claim? Or will she continue to try to escape?
Nala, who is going into heat, enters the woods and finds Av’dag who notices her situation. Nala did not want another mate after her mate died, so she has no choice but to run away or accept her brother’s choices for her. Av’dag saves her from a feral bear attack, but Av’dag will not allow her to escape him and takes her back to his cave to make her his. Will she accept the claim? Or will she continue to try to escape?
December 11, 2023
Great Mature Representation!!!!!
I am thrilled that this story focused on the mature population. Nala being a widow and Av'dag being a widower was protecting his clan when he gets finds Nala. But the relationship sort of just happened immediately as it should in the type of Omegaverse.
Leann writes beautifully about live, trust, and connection, but this one I especially love because it represents the part of our populations we seem to ignore....the mature ones.
I am thrilled that this story focused on the mature population. Nala being a widow and Av'dag being a widower was protecting his clan when he gets finds Nala. But the relationship sort of just happened immediately as it should in the type of Omegaverse.
Leann writes beautifully about live, trust, and connection, but this one I especially love because it represents the part of our populations we seem to ignore....the mature ones.
October 8, 2024
Monster's Prey by LeAnn Ryan's is a human monster omegaverse. Nala an omega widow who finds herself at the mercy of a monster named Av'dag.
This story is short and spicy with everything I needed to make it a perfect binge read. I enjoyed the characters that were a bit older and relatable. There was plenty of spice.
This is a must read for monster romance fans that enjoy omegaverses, fated mates, and second chances.
This story is short and spicy with everything I needed to make it a perfect binge read. I enjoyed the characters that were a bit older and relatable. There was plenty of spice.
This is a must read for monster romance fans that enjoy omegaverses, fated mates, and second chances.
February 11, 2026
Nala is recovering from the death of her Alpha. But is now being forced into mating with a drunkard Alpha her brother has sold her onto. Not yet ready to accept her fate she goes for a walk in the forest, only to be attacked by a bear. As luck would have it, she is rescued by a monster Alpha who is all too happy to take her for his own.
This is a very short story with brief spice and good narration.
This is a very short story with brief spice and good narration.
November 14, 2023
An omega widow is an unusual, and it seems, unwelcome thing. Nala's brother and sister-in-law want her married off as soon as possible. Her feelings are irrelevant.
Another story in the Monsters canon, book 3 gives us protagonists who are passed the first flush of youth, yet their passion and desire has not dimmed.
A short but complete story giving hope for any reader who is a little older.
Another story in the Monsters canon, book 3 gives us protagonists who are passed the first flush of youth, yet their passion and desire has not dimmed.
A short but complete story giving hope for any reader who is a little older.
November 14, 2023
Nala lost her mate and now faces her first heat al9ne, only her brothers arranging a new alpha for her that she doesn't want. A last walk of freedom ends with her meeting Av'Dag. He becomes her savior in more than one way. Well written steamy engaging revere age gap desires and more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2023
Escaped
These Omega, Alpha books are really not my favorite trope but I do enjoy the Monsters in the Mountains series. They are quick reads with the capture, acceptance and hope for a future between the two main characters. Nala was a older female with few options but a walk in the woods changed her life. I enjoyed it.
These Omega, Alpha books are really not my favorite trope but I do enjoy the Monsters in the Mountains series. They are quick reads with the capture, acceptance and hope for a future between the two main characters. Nala was a older female with few options but a walk in the woods changed her life. I enjoyed it.
December 3, 2023
After the death of her alpha,Nala feels unwanted in her brother's home and on top of that ,her heat is coming....
Feeling restless,she wanders to the forest and is almost attacked by a bear and saved by a monster.
A short but smutty story in the unmistakable writting style of Leann Ryans.
I recomend!
Feeling restless,she wanders to the forest and is almost attacked by a bear and saved by a monster.
A short but smutty story in the unmistakable writting style of Leann Ryans.
I recomend!
December 3, 2023
This is book 3 in this series and read out of order, but still enjoyed, as I have with those purchased, to date. Wasn't sure how I'd feel about this genre, but it's great and so enjoying these characters and their lives.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2024
Omega's second chance
A short monster romance where an omega has lost her mate to illness and is on the cusp of mating another who was not her choice. Whilst contemplating her future, she finds herself in dire circumstances, but the alpha that comes to her aid is not what she expected at all.
This is book 3 in the series, and I am really enjoying these quick reads!
A short monster romance where an omega has lost her mate to illness and is on the cusp of mating another who was not her choice. Whilst contemplating her future, she finds herself in dire circumstances, but the alpha that comes to her aid is not what she expected at all.
This is book 3 in the series, and I am really enjoying these quick reads!
April 20, 2026
This was a great story! Brilliant plot, lovely spice, steamy and romantic and just really well written and narrated! Possibly my fave one in the whole series (ive read these out of order and this is my 8th one maybe?)
The reason for missing that last star was because I like more spice in my smut reads, short and sweet is lovely but give me all the foreplay and growls too please.
The reason for missing that last star was because I like more spice in my smut reads, short and sweet is lovely but give me all the foreplay and growls too please.
August 18, 2023
Brilliant read.
Nalas mate died long ago. But omegas need. to have a purpose, An alpha to live for and her brother cannot stand the burden of having his sister back in his life. Nala knows she must move on, but she wants to move on to someone of her choosing
Brilliant read.
Nalas mate died long ago. But omegas need. to have a purpose, An alpha to live for and her brother cannot stand the burden of having his sister back in his life. Nala knows she must move on, but she wants to move on to someone of her choosing
Brilliant read.
November 21, 2023
Fantastic Story 😁
Totally Awesome story, just way too short 😉. I really enjoyed reading this story but I wish there was more to it 😃. Thanks again Leeann, I'm looking forward to reading the next book and hoping that there's more to it 🤓.
Totally Awesome story, just way too short 😉. I really enjoyed reading this story but I wish there was more to it 😃. Thanks again Leeann, I'm looking forward to reading the next book and hoping that there's more to it 🤓.
December 1, 2023
This is a quick little read, and I really enjoyed it. Nala and Av'dag are older and I loved that, especially with Nala. The heat and steam are high in this one, as is the emotional connection between the characters. It's the perfect afternoon read.
December 30, 2023
Although this was a quick read it brought it home.
It had heat, yet a compassion that felt right.
A second chance that was written with care and I can honestly say this was a different type of monster book.
It had heat, yet a compassion that felt right.
A second chance that was written with care and I can honestly say this was a different type of monster book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews