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Falling Through Portals #1
I Fell Through A Portal And Into A Gargoyles Arms
After getting laid off from my job, all I want to do is go home, put on a Halloween movie, and take a hot bath to soak away my troubles.
But things take a turn as soon as my head sinks below the water.
When I come back up for air and open my eyes, I’m not in my bathtub anymore—I’m in the arms of a very large, very gray, very masculine man.
Turns out, he’s a gargoyle, and I’m no longer in my world.
Thoren says I’m his mate, that he’s waited for me for his entire life. And there’s no denying this pull between us. But I’m determined to figure out a way to get back home.
There’s just one problem, the bond is growing stronger every day. When he’s away, there’s a heaviness in my chest. And when he’s near, my body aches for him.
Leaving him may be harder than I originally thought.
But things take a turn as soon as my head sinks below the water.
When I come back up for air and open my eyes, I’m not in my bathtub anymore—I’m in the arms of a very large, very gray, very masculine man.
Turns out, he’s a gargoyle, and I’m no longer in my world.
Thoren says I’m his mate, that he’s waited for me for his entire life. And there’s no denying this pull between us. But I’m determined to figure out a way to get back home.
There’s just one problem, the bond is growing stronger every day. When he’s away, there’s a heaviness in my chest. And when he’s near, my body aches for him.
Leaving him may be harder than I originally thought.
224 pages, Paperback
Published October 7, 2024
155 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
February 16, 2025
I was so annoyed with both main characters the entire book. They barely communicated, needing other people to do the heavy lifting in their relationship. I get why Kaia got freaked out and felt out of her depth. I kinda sorta get why Thoren did. But a whole week of barely talking because of miscommunication? Not my cup of tea.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: brief body insecurity, mention of parent death, pregnancy
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: brief body insecurity, mention of parent death, pregnancy
May 4, 2025
I feel a bit harsh giving this 3 stars, it's probably closer to 3.5 but I just didn't think it was enough to round up to four.
It's fine and cosy and ticks enough boxes. The author is obviously talented and the writing is competent and free from errors. It was just a bit more of a smut story than a romance story for me. There were mentions of genitals all the time, and I much prefer it when all the heat is subtle and you have to read between the lines. Plus the book is like 160 pages long and the first sex scene was three chapters long. Just a bit much for me.
But hey, it might just tickle your pickle so why not give it a go?
It's fine and cosy and ticks enough boxes. The author is obviously talented and the writing is competent and free from errors. It was just a bit more of a smut story than a romance story for me. There were mentions of genitals all the time, and I much prefer it when all the heat is subtle and you have to read between the lines. Plus the book is like 160 pages long and the first sex scene was three chapters long. Just a bit much for me.
But hey, it might just tickle your pickle so why not give it a go?
April 18, 2025
If I hear one more - mate - I'm losing my fucking mind 😵💫 didn't really enjoy the book, because the whole time I felt like everybody was manipulating and gaslighting Kaia into this relationship, because no one wanted Thoren to feel sad and truly didn't care that she had any family back ant her world.
October 8, 2024
ARC REVIEW
This is such a cute/cozy monster romance that is perfect for the fall.
Kaia is trying to live her best life but she can’t catch a break. She’s just been laid off from her job and has no real close family or friends. She decides the perfect way to end a bad day is just to relax by taking a nice warm bath.
When she dunks her head under the water all of a sudden the water is cold and she wakes up in the arms of a Gargoyle named Thoren.
Thoren instantly knows that Kaia is his long awaited mate and literally wants to do everything to make her feel comfortable.
Kaia has seriously conflicting feelings. She wants to go “home” but at the same time she is intrigued by this new magical place and the people there, especially Thoren.
This is definitely on the shorter side and character driven rather than plot driven and was exactly what I wanted in a monster romance (I mean who doesn’t want to read about a sexy Gargoyle that falls head over heels for his fated mate???). Seriously Thoren is obsessed with Kaia from the very beginning. He is so incredibly sweet and just wants to do everything he can to make her happy… even though he knows that she may ultimately choose to return back to her world.
Also this book definitely has some serious 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I will definitely read more if the author decides to write more about this magical world. The story sucked me right in and kept me interested the entire time.
This is such a cute/cozy monster romance that is perfect for the fall.
Kaia is trying to live her best life but she can’t catch a break. She’s just been laid off from her job and has no real close family or friends. She decides the perfect way to end a bad day is just to relax by taking a nice warm bath.
When she dunks her head under the water all of a sudden the water is cold and she wakes up in the arms of a Gargoyle named Thoren.
Thoren instantly knows that Kaia is his long awaited mate and literally wants to do everything to make her feel comfortable.
Kaia has seriously conflicting feelings. She wants to go “home” but at the same time she is intrigued by this new magical place and the people there, especially Thoren.
This is definitely on the shorter side and character driven rather than plot driven and was exactly what I wanted in a monster romance (I mean who doesn’t want to read about a sexy Gargoyle that falls head over heels for his fated mate???). Seriously Thoren is obsessed with Kaia from the very beginning. He is so incredibly sweet and just wants to do everything he can to make her happy… even though he knows that she may ultimately choose to return back to her world.
Also this book definitely has some serious 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I will definitely read more if the author decides to write more about this magical world. The story sucked me right in and kept me interested the entire time.
December 6, 2024
Imma go take a bath in a tub so I’ll transport to another world.
Kaia submerged herself in a bath tub and she fell literally in the arms of a gargoyle, Thorin, and seems to be in another world. As she find a way to go back to the mortal world, people are telling her that she’s the mate of Thorin.
Cozy, fun and low stake. I would love to know more about the transporting world because that was very interesting concept. I love seeing the side characters and Thorin’s family. Kaia’s a complex character and I love her for knowing her priorities and her curiousity on how to travel back even if she already made a decision.
Thorin was so sweet, and just wanted whatever Kaia wanted. He’s a grump at first but eventually became a cinnamon roll hero.
This is something to read during the winter, and honestly, a great palate cleanser.
Kaia submerged herself in a bath tub and she fell literally in the arms of a gargoyle, Thorin, and seems to be in another world. As she find a way to go back to the mortal world, people are telling her that she’s the mate of Thorin.
Cozy, fun and low stake. I would love to know more about the transporting world because that was very interesting concept. I love seeing the side characters and Thorin’s family. Kaia’s a complex character and I love her for knowing her priorities and her curiousity on how to travel back even if she already made a decision.
Thorin was so sweet, and just wanted whatever Kaia wanted. He’s a grump at first but eventually became a cinnamon roll hero.
This is something to read during the winter, and honestly, a great palate cleanser.
October 7, 2024
ARC READER REVIEW!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I absolutely loved this book!!! If you’re looking for a wholesome, spicy read with definite fall vibes, look no further! This book is the perfect cozy, fated mates monster romance for the spooky season!! 🖤💀✨
This is a character driven plot, which can sometimes seem slow when reading but that was not the case with this story. I thought everything progressed well. I really enjoyed each character and the relationship that bloomed between Thoren and Kaia. They were adorable!!🥰
Thoren is immediately enamored with Kaia but is trying to playing it cool for her sake, being in a new dimension and all. And Kaia is attracted to Thoren but is fighting her feelings in the hopes that she will find a way back home. Even though they are fated mates, I really felt like these characters grew together on the page. And the spice was definitely spicing 🥵 I love me some gargoyle smut🤭
I also really enjoyed the world building and that Kaia literally fell into another dimension filled with “monsters.” I also loved seeing Thoren with his siblings. And his sister, Selah was so interesting!! I’m excited to see if she gets her own book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I absolutely loved this book!!! If you’re looking for a wholesome, spicy read with definite fall vibes, look no further! This book is the perfect cozy, fated mates monster romance for the spooky season!! 🖤💀✨
This is a character driven plot, which can sometimes seem slow when reading but that was not the case with this story. I thought everything progressed well. I really enjoyed each character and the relationship that bloomed between Thoren and Kaia. They were adorable!!🥰
Thoren is immediately enamored with Kaia but is trying to playing it cool for her sake, being in a new dimension and all. And Kaia is attracted to Thoren but is fighting her feelings in the hopes that she will find a way back home. Even though they are fated mates, I really felt like these characters grew together on the page. And the spice was definitely spicing 🥵 I love me some gargoyle smut🤭
I also really enjoyed the world building and that Kaia literally fell into another dimension filled with “monsters.” I also loved seeing Thoren with his siblings. And his sister, Selah was so interesting!! I’m excited to see if she gets her own book!
April 29, 2025
Short and sweet and satisfying
Kaia's life is not what she hoped it would be. She is alone and lonely and has just been laid off from her job.
She is worrying about her future while taking a bath and quite literally drops into a new world and Thoren's arms.
A naked meet cute was a surprise, but it worked! Thoren is adorable as he becomes a marshmallow for Kaia. There is just the right amount of tension because we don't know if she will stay or try to find a way home.
This was a quick and fun read.
Kaia's life is not what she hoped it would be. She is alone and lonely and has just been laid off from her job.
She is worrying about her future while taking a bath and quite literally drops into a new world and Thoren's arms.
A naked meet cute was a surprise, but it worked! Thoren is adorable as he becomes a marshmallow for Kaia. There is just the right amount of tension because we don't know if she will stay or try to find a way home.
This was a quick and fun read.
October 3, 2024
***ARC READER***MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS***
I am a sucker for a fated mates romance! I also loved that it was very character oriented and that they were our sole focus. Sometime books that are character driven instead of story can seem slow but that was not the case here! You immediately fall in love with these characters. Kaia holds a special place in my heart because like her I took struggle with body image issues. Thoren is so sweet to her that at points I was actually crying with some of the things he was saying. If you are looking for your next fated mates monster romance I highly recommend adding this one to your list! And its perfect for the spooky season!
I am a sucker for a fated mates romance! I also loved that it was very character oriented and that they were our sole focus. Sometime books that are character driven instead of story can seem slow but that was not the case here! You immediately fall in love with these characters. Kaia holds a special place in my heart because like her I took struggle with body image issues. Thoren is so sweet to her that at points I was actually crying with some of the things he was saying. If you are looking for your next fated mates monster romance I highly recommend adding this one to your list! And its perfect for the spooky season!
October 7, 2024
This was such a great fall read!
Thoren and Kaia are such a cute couple! He’s so sweet and caring but a grump on the outside, the perfect combo. And I love his sass. I loved Kaia, she seemed very relatable with her body insecurities at times but also loved herself no matter what.
This was a quick easy read and was perfect for fall. Wasn’t over the top like some “monster romances”, it was a perfect blend of sweet and spicy.
Thoren and Kaia are such a cute couple! He’s so sweet and caring but a grump on the outside, the perfect combo. And I love his sass. I loved Kaia, she seemed very relatable with her body insecurities at times but also loved herself no matter what.
This was a quick easy read and was perfect for fall. Wasn’t over the top like some “monster romances”, it was a perfect blend of sweet and spicy.
October 8, 2024
I’ve never read a supernatural romance before but this book has ensured that I will read more like it. Kaia is such a warm and reliable character and Thoren is the perfect gentleman. This book had me giggling and wanting to kick my legs. And the spice was spicing!! P. E. R. F. E. C. T.
October 9, 2024
Kaia and Thoran
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
HEA💛
Paranormal Romance 💜
Fated Mates 💚
Found family
He falls first
Forced proximity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
HEA💛
Paranormal Romance 💜
Fated Mates 💚
Found family
He falls first
Forced proximity
October 31, 2024
This was a short, cute and cozy monster romance and I weirdly really enjoyed it. I would definitely read more from this author!
December 29, 2024
This book was the perfect getting out a slump read for me. I loved the cozy vibes of it all!
December 30, 2024
Gaga for the Gargoyle
Not a bad read! I was expecting next to nothing, and I got a bit of cozy smut. Not bad!
Not a bad read! I was expecting next to nothing, and I got a bit of cozy smut. Not bad!
Read
May 22, 2025øhhh den va gratis på kindle and it shows??? cozy når æ bare skimma gjennom og ignorerte hele smut greia og d virka som om forfattern kosa sæ når dem skreiv den så pop off
December 28, 2024
What the hell was that
October 4, 2024
I have followed and read all of Dana's work so I know that this was a new territory for her. Let me just tell you, I absolutely loved this book. I used this as my palette cleanser from everything dark that I always read.
I have recently discovered I love a good fated mates story and this fit my expectations very well. It was a super cute and quick read. This book screamed fall vibes and I was here for it. I really enjoy a curvy FMC and an MMC that tells her and shows her just how pretty she is. Kaia and her insecurities were relatable at one point in my life so it was nice to see this scenario so well written into a book with a curvy girl.
I rather enjoyed the instant connection Kaia and Thoren had and I am usually an enemies to lovers, put me through hell first, type of person. The banter between the two characters started right off the bat and it had me laughing out loud.
This book was character driven and an emotional ride as they each battled with their own internal emotions regarding the situation they were in. Overall it was a happy read and ended on such a positive note! The spice that was written in the story would have you drooling. The spice didn't occur as much as I thought it would going in but it was well-written and very well placed throughout the story.
I would definitely recommend this book to someone, especially if they were just starting out with monster romance.
I have recently discovered I love a good fated mates story and this fit my expectations very well. It was a super cute and quick read. This book screamed fall vibes and I was here for it. I really enjoy a curvy FMC and an MMC that tells her and shows her just how pretty she is. Kaia and her insecurities were relatable at one point in my life so it was nice to see this scenario so well written into a book with a curvy girl.
I rather enjoyed the instant connection Kaia and Thoren had and I am usually an enemies to lovers, put me through hell first, type of person. The banter between the two characters started right off the bat and it had me laughing out loud.
This book was character driven and an emotional ride as they each battled with their own internal emotions regarding the situation they were in. Overall it was a happy read and ended on such a positive note! The spice that was written in the story would have you drooling. The spice didn't occur as much as I thought it would going in but it was well-written and very well placed throughout the story.
I would definitely recommend this book to someone, especially if they were just starting out with monster romance.
February 1, 2025
It’s a fated mates plot without much drama. The way fated mates work in this book is a bit unsatisfying; there’s no overarching plot reason why “fate” would need/want to put them together, but it’s also not entirely a biochemical thing where she just like, smells really good to him or whatever but the love is up to them. It’s made pretty clear from the start that there’s only 1 fated mate for the MMC and she’s the one, so while she spends the entire book looking for answers about what happened to send her to the other world, he’s moping because she wants to leave him, and it’s kinda lame. They can’t just have an honest conversation about it because he is weirdly afraid and doesn’t want to “influence her decision”, but there’s really no reason for him to be this standoffish about it… I think, subconsciously, the author realizes that she’s written these two people into a corner consent-wise, between the pull of the bond and the fact that she can not go home, the FMC is never gonna say no. So if the MMC is insistent about his own desires, then it could push the book over the line into dubcon/pressured consent. This all could have been avoided by not making the mate bond so inescapable, and giving the characters more actual chemistry to bring them together, but meh, why bother? They’re fated mates, y’all, you’ll eat this shiz up no matter how unlikely the pairing, right?
February 11, 2025
3.5 Stars:
This is the first full fantasy book by Dana Isaly I've read (and the first one I think she's written...she's done some paranormal stuff but nothing in a completely different world). And I enjoyed it! It was cute and cozy and spicy....I just could not get over that it was so clearly set up from the beginning that she had NOTHING to go back to. She just got laid off, she won't be able to afford her apartment if she goes back without quickly finding a new job, she doesn't have any friends or romantic partners, and she's an only child orphan. So like..why did we spend the whole book trying to find a way back?? I know there had to be some sort of conflict in the book, but it almost felt unrealistic to me. And maybe that's just because I love monster romance and would love to fall through a portal to a fantasy world. But still. Also...I found the big conversation about her insecurities and stuff to be unnecessary. I love having a plus size FMC (obviously, I am one myself), but I just did not like that conversation. It felt like it took away from the story, especially because it felt like she'd been moving forward with her insecurities, knowing that he liked her the way she was so much. And not that you can't have bad days when you're confident, it just...kind of pulled me out of the book a little bit.
This is the first full fantasy book by Dana Isaly I've read (and the first one I think she's written...she's done some paranormal stuff but nothing in a completely different world). And I enjoyed it! It was cute and cozy and spicy....I just could not get over that it was so clearly set up from the beginning that she had NOTHING to go back to. She just got laid off, she won't be able to afford her apartment if she goes back without quickly finding a new job, she doesn't have any friends or romantic partners, and she's an only child orphan. So like..why did we spend the whole book trying to find a way back?? I know there had to be some sort of conflict in the book, but it almost felt unrealistic to me. And maybe that's just because I love monster romance and would love to fall through a portal to a fantasy world. But still. Also...I found the big conversation about her insecurities and stuff to be unnecessary. I love having a plus size FMC (obviously, I am one myself), but I just did not like that conversation. It felt like it took away from the story, especially because it felt like she'd been moving forward with her insecurities, knowing that he liked her the way she was so much. And not that you can't have bad days when you're confident, it just...kind of pulled me out of the book a little bit.
February 12, 2025
It's not the best book series I've ever read but also not the absolute worst (trust me, I've read some garbage smut).
Honestly I liked this but I didn't love it because we (as the readers) ultimately knew the FMC would choose to stay with the MMC after edging/resisting the connection they have (although idk what connection that would be other than they enjoy each others company but its fine).
I did enjoy the different characters introduced, but I am also curious as to how the next book will turn out given the direction. I think I'll keep reading this, and I appreciate that the author uses art (yeah, it's kinda shitty but i would rather take this than the AI BS other KU smut authors are heading towards)
I just was not a fan of the rushed ending and the immediate skip to them being pregnant and excited to be pumping babies out.
Overall, it is a solid read for the content and somewhat plot because let's be real. We all know what we are getting into when we look into these types of books.
Honestly I liked this but I didn't love it because we (as the readers) ultimately knew the FMC would choose to stay with the MMC after edging/resisting the connection they have (although idk what connection that would be other than they enjoy each others company but its fine).
I did enjoy the different characters introduced, but I am also curious as to how the next book will turn out given the direction. I think I'll keep reading this, and I appreciate that the author uses art (yeah, it's kinda shitty but i would rather take this than the AI BS other KU smut authors are heading towards)
I just was not a fan of the rushed ending and the immediate skip to them being pregnant and excited to be pumping babies out.
Overall, it is a solid read for the content and somewhat plot because let's be real. We all know what we are getting into when we look into these types of books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2024
Absolutely adorable! The cute lovey vibes are perfect. You absolutely have to go in knowing this is one of those books where the story doesn't matter it's all about the vibes. If you go in expecting an intense romance, you're gonna be disappointed. It's cute fluffy monster spice. That's it.
This is all about the characters and how cute they are together. Thor and Kaia are perfect together, and I am a big fan of their insta-connection. Dana Isaly is great at characters and their banter. Her writing makes the story fly by and keeps you hooked from the first page.
The only reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars is because I wish Kaia didn't point out her weight so much. I understand her character is meant to be insecure and need Thor to help her overcome it, but I think she would have been a better character with confidence in her weight and a who gives a shit attitude.
Thank you Dana Isaly for a copy of the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is all about the characters and how cute they are together. Thor and Kaia are perfect together, and I am a big fan of their insta-connection. Dana Isaly is great at characters and their banter. Her writing makes the story fly by and keeps you hooked from the first page.
The only reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars is because I wish Kaia didn't point out her weight so much. I understand her character is meant to be insecure and need Thor to help her overcome it, but I think she would have been a better character with confidence in her weight and a who gives a shit attitude.
Thank you Dana Isaly for a copy of the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 7, 2024
Arc review
I Fell Through a Portal and Into a Gargoyle’s Arms
By @author.danaisaly
5 stars
What better way to kick off the month of October than with this cozy fall monster romance.
Kaia and Thoren are such a fun, loving couple that I’m obsessed with! I truly enjoyed this fated mates love story. A thick heroine who at times lacks self confidence and self love meets a HUGE(in all the ways) gargoyle who is utterly obsessed with every inch of her and will stop at nothing to prove it to her. Need I say more?!
“I’ve felt inadequate. Look at you-
handsome, tall, and fucking strong.
And then there’s me, your mate who takes up too much space.”
“You take up the exact amount of space you are meant to.”
Dana really nailed her first monster romance and I hope we get more into this world!
Now excuse me while I go take a bath and try to find the portal to my own gargoyle’s arms.
This fun read is also available on Kindle Unlimited tomorrow!
I Fell Through a Portal and Into a Gargoyle’s Arms
By @author.danaisaly
5 stars
What better way to kick off the month of October than with this cozy fall monster romance.
Kaia and Thoren are such a fun, loving couple that I’m obsessed with! I truly enjoyed this fated mates love story. A thick heroine who at times lacks self confidence and self love meets a HUGE(in all the ways) gargoyle who is utterly obsessed with every inch of her and will stop at nothing to prove it to her. Need I say more?!
“I’ve felt inadequate. Look at you-
handsome, tall, and fucking strong.
And then there’s me, your mate who takes up too much space.”
“You take up the exact amount of space you are meant to.”
Dana really nailed her first monster romance and I hope we get more into this world!
Now excuse me while I go take a bath and try to find the portal to my own gargoyle’s arms.
This fun read is also available on Kindle Unlimited tomorrow!
October 4, 2024
This captivating monster romance debut introduces a delightful world of fated mates, featuring a strikingly handsome gargoyle and a stunningly curvy heroine. The unexpected journey through a portal sets the stage for a whirlwind romance filled with emotional depth and sizzling chemistry.
Kaia's relatable insecurity and Thoren's conflicted emotions create a compelling dynamic that resonates with readers. The author's ability to delve into the complexities of their relationship, exploring themes of love, trust, and self-worth, is truly impressive.
Of course, the story wouldn't be complete without a generous helping of passionate encounters. The author expertly weaves sensual scenes into the narrative, adding an extra layer of excitement and allure.
Overall, this is a charming and well-written romance that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Kaia's relatable insecurity and Thoren's conflicted emotions create a compelling dynamic that resonates with readers. The author's ability to delve into the complexities of their relationship, exploring themes of love, trust, and self-worth, is truly impressive.
Of course, the story wouldn't be complete without a generous helping of passionate encounters. The author expertly weaves sensual scenes into the narrative, adding an extra layer of excitement and allure.
Overall, this is a charming and well-written romance that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
October 7, 2024
Another amazing novella from Dana!
Thorne and Kaia oh I get the warm and fuzzies thinking about them. This was such a fun read. I loved how there relationship played out and how there two worlds collided together, or should I say love fell from the sky lol. The little town Throne lives was the ultimate fall vibes I was so cozy reading it. Dana’s FMC always get me right in the heart I can relate to them on so many levels I picture myself in her characters shoes as if I am finding there mate and experiences the sexy time I loved every minute of it. The banter was so good and belly laughed every time Kaia was tell Thorne something about her life on earth or the customs she had and he was life what? Never heard of such a thing 🤣 overall amazing quick swoony spicy novella. I look forward to be in this world again!
Thorne and Kaia oh I get the warm and fuzzies thinking about them. This was such a fun read. I loved how there relationship played out and how there two worlds collided together, or should I say love fell from the sky lol. The little town Throne lives was the ultimate fall vibes I was so cozy reading it. Dana’s FMC always get me right in the heart I can relate to them on so many levels I picture myself in her characters shoes as if I am finding there mate and experiences the sexy time I loved every minute of it. The banter was so good and belly laughed every time Kaia was tell Thorne something about her life on earth or the customs she had and he was life what? Never heard of such a thing 🤣 overall amazing quick swoony spicy novella. I look forward to be in this world again!
October 20, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
TW - struggle with body image (FMC), fat shaming (past, mentioned), financial insecurity, apartment building not ADA compliant, being laid off, parental death (mentioned), alcohol consumption, near fatal pregnancy / birth (sc, mentioned), poor sexual encounter with an ex (alluded to briefly)
CW - breeding, hand necklaces, breath play, public play
Tropes - one horse, paranormal, one bed, small town, found family, fated mates
Representation - plus size FMC, anxiety + depression (mentioned)
This was such a fun and cozy read - would defo recommend for anyone looking for something sweet, cozy, short, paranormal, fated mates and / or gargoyles.
The MCs were very sweet together, Thoren (MMC) was very attentive to Kaia (FMC) and what he could do to make her comfortable when she falls (splashes?) into a new world. There was a moment where Thoren reassured Kaia about her body and it was genuinely such a sweet moment 🥺
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List
TW - struggle with body image (FMC), fat shaming (past, mentioned), financial insecurity, apartment building not ADA compliant, being laid off, parental death (mentioned), alcohol consumption, near fatal pregnancy / birth (sc, mentioned), poor sexual encounter with an ex (alluded to briefly)
CW - breeding, hand necklaces, breath play, public play
Tropes - one horse, paranormal, one bed, small town, found family, fated mates
Representation - plus size FMC, anxiety + depression (mentioned)
This was such a fun and cozy read - would defo recommend for anyone looking for something sweet, cozy, short, paranormal, fated mates and / or gargoyles.
The MCs were very sweet together, Thoren (MMC) was very attentive to Kaia (FMC) and what he could do to make her comfortable when she falls (splashes?) into a new world. There was a moment where Thoren reassured Kaia about her body and it was genuinely such a sweet moment 🥺
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List
October 11, 2024
I really loved this one! This was Dana's first monster romance and I'm certainly hoping it isn't the last! As always, i just wish it had been a little longer :( I always end up loving the characters so much and I hate letting them go so soon!
While short, the world building and subtle plot werent overlooked and it really has me looking forward to hopefully another book in the series!
I really enjoyed both Thoren and Kaia, Kaia's internal struggle, while understandable, felt a little goofy at times but that's my favorite thing about "miscommunication" (in quotes because there really isn't any) the angst that is only there because the main characters are too stupid to tell each other how they feel *sighs wistfully*
it was silly and cute and fun and i had such a good time reading it, I can only hope the author chooses to write more!
While short, the world building and subtle plot werent overlooked and it really has me looking forward to hopefully another book in the series!
I really enjoyed both Thoren and Kaia, Kaia's internal struggle, while understandable, felt a little goofy at times but that's my favorite thing about "miscommunication" (in quotes because there really isn't any) the angst that is only there because the main characters are too stupid to tell each other how they feel *sighs wistfully*
it was silly and cute and fun and i had such a good time reading it, I can only hope the author chooses to write more!
October 10, 2024
This was a quick, cozy read! It's a fated mates, insta-love monster romance.
I think it was super cute and fluffy. Kaia is down on her luck and feeling crummy when she falls, quite literally into the arms of the gargoyle Thoren! She went under the water in tub at home and ended up...where!?
Thoren helps her try to find a way back home despite knowing it will break him. He is such a sweet, cinnamon roll man! He takes care of her and builds her up.
Kaia cracks me up. She definitely doesn't just accept what's happening, and stays on guard a bit. I like that while it is a quick insta-love story, it does take a minute for her to decide where she wants to be.
This book advertised itself exactly as it is, and I love that. I also liked the focus on the characters without having to build up a whole world around it. It's nice to take a step back and enjoy books like this. And these were very cozy, sweet characters. Even the family!
If I have one thing to say, it's that I wish there was a little more POV for Thoren.
But overall, I loved this. It gave me all the warm feelings. And of course there was some spice too. A nice cherry on top of the cake. And...magic lube? Hahaha love it
🌶🌶🌶/5
I think it was super cute and fluffy. Kaia is down on her luck and feeling crummy when she falls, quite literally into the arms of the gargoyle Thoren! She went under the water in tub at home and ended up...where!?
Thoren helps her try to find a way back home despite knowing it will break him. He is such a sweet, cinnamon roll man! He takes care of her and builds her up.
Kaia cracks me up. She definitely doesn't just accept what's happening, and stays on guard a bit. I like that while it is a quick insta-love story, it does take a minute for her to decide where she wants to be.
This book advertised itself exactly as it is, and I love that. I also liked the focus on the characters without having to build up a whole world around it. It's nice to take a step back and enjoy books like this. And these were very cozy, sweet characters. Even the family!
If I have one thing to say, it's that I wish there was a little more POV for Thoren.
But overall, I loved this. It gave me all the warm feelings. And of course there was some spice too. A nice cherry on top of the cake. And...magic lube? Hahaha love it
🌶🌶🌶/5
October 6, 2024
This was a great cozy fantasy romance. It was a nice lead in for fall romance reads and it being a monster romance for perfectly in for October.
I enjoyed this new writing genre from Dana and am happy to see her publishing again. Her writing sucks me in, not matter the genre and typically has me completing it in one sitting.
Kaia and Thoren were so cute together! Sometimes we all need a feel good character driven romance. I enjoyed all the interactions and the interactions with his family. Kaia’s thought process felt natural and real which is not always typical in fantasy romances. Her doubts made sense and feel like how I would have handled the situation.
Highly recommend when you need a fluffy feel good read with spice!
I enjoyed this new writing genre from Dana and am happy to see her publishing again. Her writing sucks me in, not matter the genre and typically has me completing it in one sitting.
Kaia and Thoren were so cute together! Sometimes we all need a feel good character driven romance. I enjoyed all the interactions and the interactions with his family. Kaia’s thought process felt natural and real which is not always typical in fantasy romances. Her doubts made sense and feel like how I would have handled the situation.
Highly recommend when you need a fluffy feel good read with spice!
October 10, 2024
I Fell Through A Portal and Into a Gargoyles Arms ✨💜🦇
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ .5
Spice: 3.5🌶️
October is for all the cozy paranormal reads!! I absolutely adored this one — it’s a delightful mix of cozy, sweet & spicy. As always, Dana’s writing is so easy to lose yourself in and before you know it you’ll have read the entire book in one sitting!
The found family aspect of this definitely hit my feels. I think a main reason why I love monster romance so much is usually because they are fated mates and the love feels so unconditional 🥹 This also happens to have one of my favorite micro tropes in it… only one horse! The tension is always the best, I don’t make the rules 🤪
Read if you like:
• paranormal/monster romance
• small town
• fated mates
• plus sized FMC
• only one bed & horse
• size difference
• breeding kink
• found family
If you’re new to monster romance, I think this would be a great read to dip your toes into it! Plus it’s perfect for the fall 🍂
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ .5
Spice: 3.5🌶️
October is for all the cozy paranormal reads!! I absolutely adored this one — it’s a delightful mix of cozy, sweet & spicy. As always, Dana’s writing is so easy to lose yourself in and before you know it you’ll have read the entire book in one sitting!
The found family aspect of this definitely hit my feels. I think a main reason why I love monster romance so much is usually because they are fated mates and the love feels so unconditional 🥹 This also happens to have one of my favorite micro tropes in it… only one horse! The tension is always the best, I don’t make the rules 🤪
Read if you like:
• paranormal/monster romance
• small town
• fated mates
• plus sized FMC
• only one bed & horse
• size difference
• breeding kink
• found family
If you’re new to monster romance, I think this would be a great read to dip your toes into it! Plus it’s perfect for the fall 🍂
December 30, 2024
I have read one other book by this author, which was a dark romance that I did not like at all. I chose not to continue the series, even though I owned all of it. (That’s not an easy thing for me to do.) However, I decided to give her another try with something completely different. This is a largely plotless, fluffy fantasy romance. I thought it was sweet and entertaining. There’s not a lot to it. The title tells you all of it, really. But he is a giant cinnamon roll that falls first, and she has enough backbone not to feel limp in the circumstances. If you want to read something mildly spicy just for the feels, this one will fit the bill.
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