Monsters Under Mistletoe: A Monstrous Holiday Anthology

by L.E. Eldridge, Lizzie Strong, Kate Prior

What is more iconic for the holiday season than a mistletoe? Whether it's your workplace enemy, or your gym crush, all it takes is a tiptoe under the mistletoe and it's true love. From Minotaurs, Orcs, Aliens, to grumpy Trolls, we've got a kiss for every good little monster this holiday season.

Come get this monstrous holiday anthology where all the proceeds benefit Planned Parenthood. Snag a smooch under this mistletoe, and donate to a good cause!

Featuring Short Stories
LE Eldridge
Lizzie Strong
Ash Raven
Petra Palerno
Rose Santoriello
Kate Prior
Ami Wright
Trish Heinrich
Selina Shaw
Melody Beckett
Kristen Strassel
Bella Blair
Marian Pattechat
Robin O'Connor
Stephanie Kazowz
Chloe Alice Balkin
Nikki Bradley

All proceeds from this anthology will be donated to Planned Parenthood.

Genres: Christmas, Monster Romance, Anthologies, Romance, Monsters, Holiday Romance, Holiday

695 pages, Paperback

Published November 29, 2024

About the author

Lexie is a paranormal romance author and avid reader from Upstate New York. She runs an editing and PA company Morally Gray Author Services and lives with her husband, dog Layla, and cat Swiper. When she's not reading (which is rarely) you can find her playing video games or looking for amazing indie bookstores and vintage shops. Lexie writes campy books full of smut with simp-y monsters looking for love.

Reviews

[Bettina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️ This holiday anthology was such a fun collection of cute monster romances! And a fantastic way to find new authors that I had not read any from prior. Some of my favorite short stories were written by L. E. Eldridge and Ash Raven, but there was so many other good ones! A huge plus that the earnings form the book goes to a good cause! If you love sweet, unique and wholesome holiday romance, with the best of the best monsters to choose from, this is the book for you!

A huge thank you to all the authors of this anthology for letting me read this ARC <3

[Jessica Steed · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 🌟 3.5🌶
I have been absolutely loving this collection!! I've been doing a story or two between larger reads and I can't recommend it enough. All the stories I've read so far have been cute, charming, and definitely getting me in a festive mood. Not to mention it's gotten me acquainted with new authors I haven't had the chance to read before but now I'm so excited to get their books!
I seriously cannot recommend this collection enough!! It has something for everyone and it's for a great cause ❤️

[Noriboo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think that anthologies are a great way to find new authors. In this particular one, I knew of 4 authors' previous work, and the others were new to me. The stories are short and sweet, with lots of holiday vibes and spice sprinkled on top. This works well as a palate cleanser between longer books, I just read one or two stories until I read them all. My favourite was of Lizzie Strong, bu the other stories were also fun to read. Definitely recommend!

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

This holiday-themed monster anthology is wonderful! It features a mix of short stories from 17 different authors who teamed up for a charitable cause, bringing their own personal twist to monster romance. There's a little something for everyone. The stories are all quick and enjoyable reads, with a variety of creatures, spice levels, and tropes. It's perfect if you're in the mood for some quick holiday reads or if you want to discover new authors while also supporting a fantastic cause!

[Rina ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome collection of short holiday themed monster stories. I enjoyed reading every single one of them. They're all very unique and entertaining. I love that each author had their own spin on their holiday tale. From cozy to dark and everything in between, there's definitely a story for everyone in this anthology. Plus, it's supporting a great cause. I highly recommend it!

[Danni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really has something for everyone. I have been reading it in between other longer books. So far I have liked everything.

Kiss me under the mistletoe by Lizzy Strong
This was too cute. I love the idea of a secret gift exchange and a secret crush coming together. 🎁

Thicket and stick it by L.E. Eldridge
Forest Fae? Yes, sign me up. Another sweet MMC. This one took place over a few years which I liked. A little Yule secret. When they got together, they were adorable.

Good mornings under the mistletoe by Ash Raven
This is the first time I’ve read where the non human is female. Wow! Brody was not what I expected. He was so sweet and shy until…. 🌶️

Yule love bites by Petra Palerno
This one was more sexy and less sweet. Felipe (our vamp) was still cute and kind, but the vibes were less… cozy. This was insta love, which admittedly isn’t my favorite and I’m annoyed at Filipe a little for post cabin behaviors, but still a short, fun read.

What makes a firebug glow by Kate Prior
Oh this one was so cute. A little fairy 🧚 It took me a minute to realize she was a real fairy and they weren’t just calling her small. The story is so fun though with her being so little with such a big guy. Silver was so sweet once you got down to it. I wish I could read more about them.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Monsters Under Mistletoe anthology is the perfect start to your holiday reads! This collection of stories offers a variety of monsters filled with spice and HEAs. I love anthologies because it gives me a chance to discover new authors! A huge plus is that all the proceeds are going to charity! This gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!

[Racy_Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gives you mini gasms with the little stories that range from dark to light. There’s something for every trope here! Enjoy!

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

First short story anthology. Really really enjoyed it! Hooray. Found some new monster romance girlies. Yay.

[Brave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly one of the best short story collections I've ever read, much less holiday-themed ones!

[Between pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm just gonna convince you to read the entire book through quotes. I'm giving you an epic spoiler.

KISSING THE GRUMPY TROLL by Ami Wright (Troll)

“Now, let’s see to this kiss. A good proper kiss this time. You have some makeup to do and I intend to see that you’ve been thoroughly kissed by the time the day is done.”
...
“Are you ready?”
“For what?”
Without words, she reaches behind her and takes my c🍒k in her hand.
Oh that! That!
Earth Mother! Is it too late to tell her no?
I’m going to embarrass myself the second I feel her sweetness around me.
She brings the tip to her 😏, and I curse all over again when I feel how wet she is.

"Do you want me to flip us?”
“It’s better this way. I’ve… had some practice.”
I imagine her riding an enormous monster
d!ld😉 head thrown back in pleasure.
Liquid heat milks from me and I shudder.
F🍒k.
The feel of her guiding my c🍒k up inside her slick passage
steals all the breath in my lungs and
the thoughts in my head.
Holy f🍒k!
_____________________________
TREASURED by Marian Pattechat (Dragon)

“What do you have in mind, Dillian?”
“A kiss is a touch on the lips, mon trésor.
My mouth on your pu🍒y thus still qualifies as a kiss.”
Cait spread her legs under his hungry gaze, enchanting in her confidence.
“Kiss away,”
...
“Now, tell me. How shall our kiss proceed?”
“Like you said, a kiss is a touch on the lips.”
“That big c🍒k of yours against my lower lips? Still qualifies as a kiss.”
...
Only his Cait could make him lose his iron dragon control.
______________________________
KISSED BY THE ICEBEASTby Robin O'connor (Icebeast)

"I settled my head between her thighs,
inhaling her scent and shuddering with pleasure at the sweetness.
When I drew my tongue through her dewy 😏, I was lost.
Ah, this is what my ancestors sang about;
this was where I belonged.
All my roaming,
all the heartache from the judgment and the stares became worthwhile.
I was meant to find her, to find this. "
______________________________
KISS ME UNDER THE MISTLETOE by Lizzie Strong (Minotaur)

"Kiss under the mistletoe, the phrase that started as a joke.
Ogar took that phrase seriously as he swiped his tongue against her cl😏t.

Every fantasy she had about him last night was blown out of the water. She almost considered telling him if her tongue would remember how to form words.
Her toy did wonders, but his mouth?
That was an orgasm she nearly didn’t come back from."
_________________________________
THICKET AND STICK IT by L.E. Eldridge (Fae)

"They licked and sucked my cl😏t,
rounding it before biting it lightly,
and starting the entire process over.
I’d never been eaten out like this before.
As if I was dinner served to them on a platter."
________________________________
Good Mornings under the Mistletoe by Ash Raven (OrcFC)

“Next time, I swear I’m gonna eat your pu🍒y until you’re begging me to stop,”
“Then I’ll use whatever toys we’ve got to do it all over again
before you even get to touch my c🍒k.”
“You’re going to love my toys.”
“Pretty sure they’ll be my new best friends,”
“Don’t threaten me with a good time,”
____________________________
YULE LOVE BITES by Petra Palerno (Vampire)

“I need you spread before me,”
“F🍒k those pants,”.
..slipping her thumbs under the waistband of her white cotton panties.
“Leave those,”
“I like to see how wet you make them.”
_____________________________
RIDING CENTAURS SLEIGH by Rose Santoreillo (Centaur and Elf)

Fern devours me like a man starved. He sucks on my most sensitive spot,
stopping to let his tongue circle my cu😏t,.....
the back of my shoulders pressing into the sofa as he eats me out until my muscles convulse and I’m bleary-eyed, my moans coming out louder than I expected.
As I come down from climaxing, he slaps my cu😏t as he gently places me back onto the couch.
________________________________
WHAT MAKES THE FIREBUG GLOWby Kate Prior (Orc & Fey)

Gently, he transferred her to his other hand and tasted her wetness off his finger.
She glimmered, she flared, she flashed, hot and tooth-gringdingly needy.
She has to look away when his head tipped back in a groan, and caught a glimpse of his arousal.
...
"She pressed her body fully to him, wrapping her arms around the head, rubbing her t🤫ts on it. It was so warm and soft, and humping her body against it was making her wetter and wetter. Silver's grunts of pleasure spurred her on."
________________________________
SANTA BABY by Trish Heinrich (Orc)
"Don't do that."
"Whatever it was that was taking you away from me and this moment.
You are the sexiest fu🍒ing thing I've seen in a long time,
and I am burning to f🍒k you,
but the only way I'll enjoy it is if you do.
So be my good girl and don't you dare be ashamed of telling me what your boundaries are. Understand?"
__________________________________
COLD HANDS WARM HEARTS by Selina Shaw (Ice Dragon)

“You’re worth the risk.”
“The princess makes people believe in a happily ever after.
I’ve always been so afraid of intimacy,
but maybe tonight I can believe that,
whatever happens, it’ll be OK.
If Taniad takes me, I don’t expect anything of you.
I’m willing to risk the thorns to kiss my princess, if you’ll let me.”

He stared at this elegant woman letting herself be so filthy, all freedom and fun.
.....she was licking his c💦m from her fingers, feeding him fruit stolen from a goddess.
_________________________________
MISTLETOE MISHAPS by Melody Becket (Alien)

And I don’t know where he stops and where I begin.
It’s a surprise when I’m finally seated on him,
both of his c🍒ks buried inside me to their hilt.
He pulls back to look down at where we’re joined and groans at the sight.

I love that I’ve made him lose control,
his hips thrusting as he pushes me to another orgasm
and then follows me through to his own.
_________________________________
SO I SMOOCHED A SANTA BEAR by Kristen Strassel (Viking Ice Bear)

Moving her hands to my shoulders,
she pushed me back until she had me on the floor.
She was on top of me, like I was her prey.
“Climb on to me,”
“I want to feel the moment when I make you lose control.”
“I’ll take every chance I can get to be naughty with you under the mistletoe.”
...
He pushed his tongue just a little further inside, and my body bucked, losing control as he drove me over the edge, I cried out, but Bjorn was relentless. He swiped back to my cl!t, circling, nipping, bringing me to a place I didn’t even know was possible.

“That’s not the only thing I plan to give you tonight.”
_______________________________
MONSTER. LOVE, and MISTLETOE BELLA BLAIR (Bear)

“I need you to f🍒k me.”
“Do you want me to f🍒k you?”
In response, I scooted forward, nearly impaling myself on his shaft. With a groan he pushed his hips forward and my eyes rolled back, again, as inch by inch, his c🍒k took possession of my pu🍒y, spreading my walls deliciously...

F🍒k! I held on to her ass like a lifeline. This woman was everything I had ever dreamed of and more.
______________________________
MANACLES & MISTLETOE by Stephanie Kawowz (She's a werewolf)

“I said, eyes on me.
All you need to do is watch me eat this beautiful fu🍒ing cu😏t
until you understand just how much I want you—have wanted you.”
....
I was on the edge of coming when Declan bit the inside of my thigh viciously.
“You don’t get to come yet.”
...
You’re going to feel what it’s like to be my prey. You tasted me. It’s my turn to taste you.”
_______________________________
JACKING FROSTby Chloe Alice Balkin (Alien)

And when his eyes meet mine and he takes a big breath, it’s like my own breath is stolen from me. Not stolen. I want him to have it.
...
Gwen begins to pray to her god, her peak incapable of waning as long as I’m within her, icing her pu🍒y. I’m not about to release her, not yet.
I nuzzle into her shoulder, loving my mate’s surrender,
as I dig two fingers into her pu🍒y alongside my c🍒k to carefully pluck a shard of c💦m out of her.
....
Her next breath is cool on my cheek.
I seal our mouths together as my c🍒k pulses and releases again within her.
....
He fu🍒ed me gently on Friday night. He fucked me frantically. He fu🍒ed me passionately.
This is the first time he f🍒ks me angrily,
driving himself into me with enough force that he has to be proving a point.
I love every second of it.
_____________________________
HOLLY JOLLY HEAT-MAS by Nikki Bradley (Incubus 💜 wolf)

There was something different about his c🍒k, she recalled.
The way he’d pried her open and fu🍒ed her boneless had been wonderful,
but something else was there, some kind of ridge
that scraped against her and filled her perfectly.
....
His tail played in her slick, spreading it over her lips,
her 😏, her cl!t,
and up to her a🍑s.
It felt exquisite, that tail having learned a lot about her over the last hours of fu🍒ing.
....
“I was thinking about what your tail will do when I start riding you,”

[Tima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviews only for titles as listed below:


Santa Baby by Trish Heinrich
4.75 stars. (Disability, mental health)

Moira, the female human lead, was seriously injured in an artifact retrieval operation and mentally and physically not able to return to fieldwork. Reassigned to another location as a trainer in the new year, she’s wearing a magical mistletoe artifact, that a friend has loaned her, that should bring her the right person for a one night stand at the work Christmas party.

Jake, the male troll lead, was a team leader and the only one to return from his last assignment. Unable to bear the thought of leading more people to their death, he took a transfer to the new office as a trainer. Whilst his one night stand sticks in his mind, he knew it couldn’t go anywhere…until Moira appears in the new training office…

This super short story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, human/orc, Christmas romance. I enjoyed that both of these characters owned their disabilities and respected each other’s limits. I enjoyed Moira’s willingness to take a chance. I enjoyed Jake’s pragmatism and his enjoyment of the opportunity that Moira being his co-trainer offered. This story ended on a very optimistic HFN and I wouldn’t mind seeing more of these characters in the future, as they’re part of the author’s existing world.


Kissed by the Icebeast by Robin O’Connor
4.5 stars

Olivia, the female human lead, is grateful to have been rescued from alien human traffickers but the sheer boredom of the refugee colony she’s living in is threatening to drive her mad. On a “Christmas” expedition with a group of refugees, she’s frustrated to realise that they will only get to go to one other indoor location.

Kyavri, the male Hoxiam (alien carnivore) lead, is of a species know for eating sentiments, though he has a pass confirming that he doesn’t. He’s still regarded with suspicion and fear and has no expectations of ever having friends, let alone a mate. Finding a large group of humans in a pub, he’s more than a little curious, and then entranced when he sees Olivia hiding in a corner. Unexpected though she is, he’s certain she’s his mate. Now he just needs to convince her before someone scares her off.

This super short story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, fated mates, Christmas romance. I enjoyed Olivia’s desire to make a real life, not just hide away. I enjoyed that she acknowledged Kyavri’s danger but accepted he wasn’t a threat to her. I enjoyed Kyavri’s immediate devotion, and his desire to give Olivia the freedom she wanted.


Kissing My Grumpy Troll Boss by Ami Wright
4.5 stars. (Dual Virgins, non-human female and male)

Kat, the female Gorgon lead, is a shy retiring type, partially because she afraid of hurting someone with either her gaze or hair snakes. Attending the work Christmas party at the encouragement of her work friend, she’s shocked to get caught under the mistletoe with her boss, Algi, the male troll lead.

Algi is mortified to think he misinterpreted Kat’s willingness to have a kiss and leaves the party immediately, despairing of ever finding a partner. Kat knows her inexperience is at fault and chases after him. Maybe two awkward inexperienced beings can make a fine couple?

This short story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet and steamy, Christmas gorgon/troll romance. I empathised with Kat’s grumpiness that masked her loneliness and enjoyed the way she reached out for the right opportunity. I enjoyed Algi’s willingness to make a longterm offer. I enjoyed their awkward, explorative intimacy, which was right for them. I enjoyed their happy ending.


So I Smooched a Santa Bear by Kristen Strassel
4.25 stars

Marissa, the female wolf shifter lead, and Bjorn, the male polar bear shifter lead, are an established couple from one of the author’s stories. This vignette is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, Christmas slice of life, romantic comedy. I enjoyed the playfulness of all the characters. I enjoyed the fun Marissa had in tempting Bjorn and the way Bjorn was willing to play along and generate some additional temptation.


Thicket and Stick It by L.E Eldridge
4 stars (Non-binary lead)

Ivy, the female human lead, knows she’s being lightly stalked by a being, especially since her grandmother’s death, but she’s always felt safe in this being’s presence. Though she got them to introduce themselves as Fern (the non-binary non-human lead), they have avoided ever being seen by Ivy. But this year, Ivy has had enough and she’s going to make physical contact…

This super short story is female lead POV, well written, and a steamy, fantasy romance with light stalking, and an obsessive love interest. I enjoyed Ivy’s persistence and her determination to move forward in their relationship. I enjoyed Fern’s revelations about Ivy’s meaning to them, and their consent focus. I enjoyed the steamy intimate scenes, and the anticipated happily ever after.


What Makes a Firebug Glow by Kate Prior
3.75 stars

Nettlewisp, the female pixie lead, is out in the world because her glow/magic disappeared and she went on a pilgrimage to attempt to restore it. Desperate to access a chamber that she believes will restore her magic, she bargains with Silvertongue, the infamous orc bounty hunter, to get her where she needs to go and all the loot found on the way will be his. Silver is intrigued by Nettle and accepts the commission, only to find a totally impossible attraction springing between them, especially since getting to the required cavern doesn’t seem to be restorative for Nettle at all…

This super short story is female lead POV, well written, and a funny, size difference, orc/pixie, fantasy romantic adventure. I enjoyed Nettle’s persistence. I enjoyed Silver’s incongruous gentleness and kindness. I was amused at the banter and the intimate interactions. I enjoyed the resolution.


Jacking Frost by Chloe Alice Balkin
3.5 stars

Gwen, the female human accountant lead, works in an alien space brothel, though she’s never chosen to offer sexual services. She’s also miffed because Tasi, the male ice angel alien accountant lead, who she’s only seen in video conferences, has been beating her in work. When they both attend the work Christmas party, Tasi is shocked to find his mating urges activated and desperately snatches Gwen away, as his pheromones cause an orgy around them. Whilst Gwen is initially unwilling to accept a mate offer, some intense intimate time and a few days to think about it may make a difference…

This super short story is dual POV, well written, and a funny, steamy, sci fi, Christmas romantic comedy. I enjoyed Gwen’s attitude. I enjoyed Tasi’s devotion once he realised who Gwen was to him. I enjoyed the intimate scenes and was amused by the resolution.


Yule Love Bites by Petra Palerno
3.5 stars

Elise, the female human lead, is on her way to an isolated cabin retreat for Christmas because she has no one to be with and wanted quiet time. She’s shocked to find Felipe, the male vampire lead and owner of the cabin, already present. Felipe gladly bids her enter and asks to spend time with her, surprised to find himself very interested in Elise. But as they spend time together, they enjoy each other, until Felipe accidentally shows her his other form and scares her into exiling him.

A year later, Elise is mourning the lack of Felipe in her life when he returns to make her an offer…

This super short story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary fantasy, Christmas romance. I enjoyed Elise’s willingness to try things, and empathised with her response to Felipe’s change. I enjoyed Felipe’s restraint and his willingness to take a risk with Elise.


Mistletoe Mishaps by Melody Beckett
3.25 stars

Holly, the female human lead and coffee shop owner on a space station, has a crush on her delivery alien, K’Laus, the male lead. When she accidentally spills coffee on him, she invites him to her place to change. K’Laus comes gladly and advises her she’s his mate. Now he just needs to convince her…

This super short story is female lead POV, and a sci fi Christmas romance in the author’s existing world. It stands alone. I was amused by Holly’s clumsiness and enjoyed K’Laus’ willingness to be what she needed.


Manacles and Mistletoe by Stephanie Kazowz
3 stars (Non-human female lead)

Holly, the female werewolf lead, is at the work Christmas party, trying to work up the courage to approach Declan, the male human lead and her close work friend, about trying for more than friendship. Running out of courage, she’s surprised and grateful when Declan approaches her in her office. Losing control as they have a moment, she bites him and then runs away.

Declan was shocked by Holly biting and running but he’s flummoxed when his brother-in-law tells him he’s becoming a werewolf and needs to kill Holly to stop the transformation…

This super short story is dual POV, well written, and feels like an introduction into more. I was amused by Holly’s antics and appreciated Declan’s approach to the situation and I’m interested but I want to know more.


I received a complimentary copy from the authors and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Racheal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm still working my way through this Anthology, but I am absolutely loving it! Each story has been short, sweet and spicy so far! I love how every author has their own flare, which makes each story feel unique and amazing! I'll add more reviews as I work my way through this bad boy.

-----------------------------------------------
Treasured
By
Marian Pattechat
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Quick Rundown:
Her Mission: steal A magical artifact from an ancient tomb. His mission: To get his tails on the greatest treasure in there. Her.
Tropes:
Fated mates, rivals-to-lovers, second chance romance, forced proximity, tail play, humor, dual pov
Review:
I absolutely loved Dillian's mischievousness and sense of humor! The playful banter between him and Caitlin was just perfection! The fact that he orchestrated their being together for a second time was clever yet heartwarming. All he wanted was to convince Caitlyn that they were meant to be. With working through a misunderstanding, I'm so glad that they came together!
I also want to mention how I loved the magical ancient egyptian vibes that were woven into this story. It was so cool and added a fun layer to things. This story was sweet and spicy with a dash of humor that had me laughing.

-----------------------------------------------
Santa Baby
By
Trish Heinrich
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Quick Rundown:
All Moira was looking for was for a quick, dirty f*ck at the Christmas party. She didn't know that the hot as sin orc in the Santa costume would be the one guy she couldn't get out of her head. Or avoid. When she turns up at her new job for this secret archive a week later, guess who her new partner is?
Tropes:
Hot Orc Santa MMC, "eyes on me", coworker romance, fated mates vibe, hot/steamy and spicy scenes.
Review:
Jake and Moria lit this story on fire with how scorchingly hot their spice felt. Jake was such a hawt orc Santa. I loved all of the naughty and nice vibes that came into play with his costume. I also love how they came together and chose each other by the end. Overall, this was a fun, quick, spicy read!

-----------------------------------------------
Thicket And Stick It
By
L.E. Eldridge
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Quick Rundown:
Every year on Yule, a presence enters my woods. They barely say a word, but I know they're always watching me, always waiting for me. But this year, I want them. I've been waiting long enough, but I'm ready to let them claim me. But with nosey neighbors and truly having no clue who lies in wait for me, have I gone too far? Or will they be the perfect Yule gift?
Tropes:
light stalking, fated mates, yuletide traditions, cat and mouse hunt through the forest, cozy vibes, Fae magic and all the spice!
Review:
This was such a cute and sweet story filled with warmth, spice and sweet yuletide traditions that have you rooting for the main characters to get together. I loved the sense of mystery that surrounded Fern and the magic that surrounded them as well. Ivy was so clever in her ways to lure Fern closer and establish a bond with them. Overall, this was a very sweet, spicy and quick read!

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monsters Under Mistletoe
A Monster Holiday Anthology

Monsters are not all scary and some are wonderful book boyfriends as seen in this varied and interesting collection of short stories that gives readers an opportunity to sample authors’ writing styles. I finished four of the seventeen stories and enjoyed them all. Something for everyone in this collection!

KISSED BY THE ICE BEAST by Robin O’Connor
Human female Olivia meets her alien Hoxiam mate Kyavri at a bar Christmas party on the planet Strewn. Who knew that a huge blue furred alien with sharp teeth would be the one to steal a human’s heart.

YULE LOVE BITES by Petra Palermo
Vampire human romance sees ancient Felipe and Elise fall for one another while in close proximity one snowed in winter evening. They are perfect together and the way there manage to be together provides a fun ending for the couple.

SANTA BABY by Trish Heinreich
A one night hookup at a Christmas party sees an orc and human meeting for a hot interlude only to find themselves working new jobs side by side soon afterward. Is it Fate that they end up together at the party and then again meet and are able to pursue more? Perhaps.

SO I SMOOCHED A SANTA BEAR
Mated wolf and bear shifters who met on The Mating Game series are surprised by the costumes worn to the office Christmas party and their plans for a steamy holiday will provide all the naughty and nice they both look forward to.


THICKET AND STICK IT by E.L. Eldridge
Ivy was born on Yul, lives in the woods, and knows there is a presence in the woods she is drawn to and wants to meet…feels she MUST meet. What a wonderful story this one was ~ Would love to know how Ivy and the variety of wood fae she meets move forward together in the future!

Did I like the stories I read? Yes
Will I finish reading the rest of the stories? Yes

Thank you to BookFunnel and the authors for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Brielle S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not impressed

Kissed by the icy beast review By Robin O'Connar:
Size differences, yes please. I want to read more of this universe, still trying to figure out which one it is. The book mentions a mercenary friend so I'll start with that series. It's a monster male X human female in space. Spicy scene was great 🥰
The rest of the stories in this anthology? Eh. That was the only one I enjoyed. They weren't kidding when they said "something for everyone." The genres are so diverse it's ridiculous. Still, it was worth it for the one really good story.
If you also wish you could have been warned in advance, here you go:

Warnings that SHOULD have been in the description:
Most have monsterXmonster relationships and some of that is fine, but one didn't even have a "spicy" scene. Two have a female monster x Human male (didn't read/not interested). One has a very speciest (annoyingly so) woman that's job is to take pictures of nude ppl (to each their own I guess) with a vampire that was ancient but talked like a teenager, but the biggest issue was how quick the spicy scene was (and from his perspective which if you're a guy I guess that works). One is two male centaurs in a very modern setting (DR/NI). One has two girls I believe (DR/NI). Another is a brothel with seemingly very public scenes (DR/NI). One was a plant creature that had a male part but apparently was... No gender? It was weird and the spicy scene wasn't great. Oh and let's not forget the fairy that is the size of the orc's part so they can't even do anything really and she just rides his piercing. There IS such a thing as too much of a size difference, lol.

[Abi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most, if not all, were pretty short, so at times, they seemed a little rushed, but I can overlook that. Overall, it was a fun read!

1. Kiss Me Under the Mistletoe. 5/5 Cute little story were she is the grump.

2. Thicket and Stick It. 2/5 Premise was good, but the writing needed more.

3. Good Mornings Under the Mistletoe. 5/5 Human MMC and Orc FMC. Spicy!

4. Yule Love Bites. 2/5 Writing was good, but he needed to grovel.

5. Riding Centaur’s Sleigh M/M. 3/5 I liked Oak cause he's awkward.

6. What Makes a Firebug Glow. 5/5 Orc MMC and Fey FMC. First size difference story I have read, and um, I'm definitely a fan.

7. Kissing my Grumpy Troll Boss. 4/5 Cute story with a shy heroine.

8. Santa Baby. 5/5 They fit so good together.

9. Cold Hands Warm Hearts. 1/5 I just couldn't get into it.

10. Mistletoe Mishaps. 4/5 Quick and cute fated mates.

11. So I Smooched a Santa Bear. 4/5 I wish he would have stayed a polar bear lol.

12. Monster, Love, and Mistletoe. 2/5 The MCs were a bit immature.

13. Treasured. 4/5 Dillon is funny, and I liked him with the FMC.

14. Kissed by the Icebeast. 5/5 Fated mates were the FMC didn't fight it. But what are the seed pods? I am positively intrigued.

15. Manacles & Mistletoe. 1/5 Honestly, Holly was hella irresponsible. Turning him and leaving him to deal with it. And while the BIL was an asshole, they killed him. I feel bad for Declans sister.

16. Jacking Frost. 5/5 Lol this one is wildly funny.

17. Jolly Jolly Heat-mas. 4/5 cute story

[S Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anthologies are always hard to rate because I always love some of the stories, dislike some, and then the rest are often “ok.” Unfortunately, this anthology was the same and I probably only read around 50% of the stories and DNF the rest.

Some positives:
-None of the stories I read were overly Christmas-y or sugary sweet, and not Hallmark-like which I appreciated. This is the way to write a Christmas volume—Christmas is a part of each story but the stories are not dependent on it being Christmas for them to work.

-I loved three of the stories. They were easily 5 stars.

-The monsters were really varied—it’s a nice collection of sub genres. So a monster for everyone’s fav type.

Negatives:
-Some of the stories jumped in into the story a little too quickly and felt like you were missing story elements. I think some were part of longer series that I hadn’t read. Other stories might have just started quickly.

-I wish there were more themes between the stories or sets of stories other than them being set around Christmas. But that is probably just me.

-I just didn’t care for some of the stories. I bet many of those I couldn’t get into will appeal to other readers.

I definitely think that if monsters and Christmas sound interesting that you should give this Anthology a try!

[Johanna 夏✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to get an Arc for this book, it is a collection of multiple Christmas Holiday related short stories about Monster Romance 💞 Minotaurs, Orcs, Tentacles, Centaurs and everything you can imagine 😏
•
some are cute, some are more spicy 🌶️ convince yourself about the stories by all the amazing authors to get prepared for a cozy Christmas Holiday time 🤭
•
5⭐️/5
1-3🌶️/5
•
1 „Kiss me under the Mistletoe“ by Lizzie Strong
2 „Thicket and Stick It“ by L.E. Eldridge
3 „Good Mornings Under the Mistletoe“ by Ash Raven
4 „Yule Love Bites“ by Petra Palerno
5 „Riding Centaur’s Sleigh“ by Rose Santoriello
6 „What Makes a Firebug Glow“ by Kate Prior
7 „Kissing my Grumpy Toll Boss“ by Ami Wright
8 „Santa Baby“ by Trish Heinrich
9 „Cold Hands Warm Hearts“ by Selina Shaw
10 „Mistletoe Mishaps“ by Melody Beckett
11 „So I Smooched a Santa Bear“ by Kristen Strassel
12 „Monster. Love, and Mistletoe“ by Bella Blair
13 „Treasured“ by Marian Pattechat
14 „Kissed by the Icebeast“ by Robin O’Connor
15 „Manacles & Mistletoe“ by Stephanie Kazowz
16 „Jacking Frost“ by Chloe Alice Balkin
17 „Holly Jolly Heat-mas“ by Nikki Bradley

[Mrs. Pendragon Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

This anthology is bursting with delightful holiday tales, it’s hard to pick a favorite!
From Ice Beasts to Bear Shifters, Vampires to Gorgons, Fairies to Dragons, there’s a smoochable creature for everyone, giving a unique monster twist to the holiday spirit.
Every story is a unique tale, offering something different: cozy small-town vibes, thrilling outer-space adventures, laugh-out-loud banter, and heart-racing romance. Whether you crave steamy encounters or playful mischief, the authors deliver a variety of heat levels, all wrapped up with a holiday bow.
Even better, all proceeds from this anthology go to Planned Parenthood, an organization that provides essential healthcare services like preventative care, health exams, and other crucial support for those in need.
Dive into these magical holiday stories, meet some unforgettable monsters, and support a fantastic cause, because love and giving go hand in hand.

*I was given an advance reader copy by the publisher, all opinions are my own*

[Madeline Paige Fornes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology was a great way to start of December! I can't wait to get my man under some mistletoe even though he's not a monster (or is he?).

There were a few stories in the anthology that weren't my speed, but that's okay! That's part of the joy of anthologies - there's a little bit of something for everyone.

Personally, my favorite story was the very first one. Ogar and Willow were right up my alley in every single way. I love minotaurs so much that when one got introduced into our D&D campaign as an NPC that was supposed to be around for one session, he ended up being kept around and named Xaden so that way I could try to work my monster loving magic on him. (Him being named Xaden was my partner (fellow player) & the DM's way of being funny since I love Fourth Wing.) Their story consisted of enemies to lover, jock and bookworm, and truly paying attention to each others passions and needs. It was wholesome and hot all at the same time. Ogar being so wholesome just made him even more hot.

I loved so many of these stories that I could yap for hours but I'll keep it short and sweet for now. I am so glad that these authors are coming together to support Planned Parenthood, and I am so glad to have read this. Enjoy your monsters babes! xoxo

[Andi Downs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great seasonal anthology. :D I follow many of these authors and read and collect their ebooks; of 11 of the authors inside this collection. :D So it went without saying, that I had to read their stories. :)
This is for L.E. Eldridge and her story "Thicket and Stick It". A great quick read, with lovable characters - Ivy and Fern. It had me chuckling away at times, as I enjoyed the banter between these two. There is a slightly, annoying male that is soon put in his place. :D
For those of you, who subscribe to this author... you will be blessed with an image of her characters. 😁🌶🌶🌶 I loved 'that' scene and the way Fern is with Ivy. Thank you and the other authors, for giving us images of your wonderful characters, for us to enjoy. And at times, revisit, bringing some joy into our world. 😊🙏🥰

[K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great collection of short holiday stories featuring monsters and humans alike!

I loved the different dynamics throughout the novellas. Some were human monster pairings, alien human couples, and monster/monster relationships. All with spice, short little plots and heartwarming romance. The one liners in some of these were just beautiful!

Example: COMFORT FILLED HER BODY, LIKE MULLED WINE ON A
FROSTY NIGHT.
THIS IS WHY
SHE COULDN'T STOP SEEKING HIM OUT, EVEN IF IT WAS PAINFULLY OBVIOUS THAT HE DIDN'T LIKE HER THE WAY SHE LIKED HIM. IT WAS TRUFFLE HUNTING. IF SHE TRIPPED OVER ENOUGH BUMPS, SHE'D
UNEARTH A MOMENT THAT LINGERED ON HER TONGUE
FOR HOURS.
(Cold Hands Warm Heart by Selina Shaw)

Highly recommend this for monster lovers wanting to get in the holiday spirit - who maybe can’t decide which kind of fun they want!

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars -
Not incredibly life changing, but not bad! I mainly picked this up for the novelty of it - where else are you going to find a collection of nothing but Christmas themed monster romances?! Not to mention, the proceeds go to such a good cause that even if I didn't absolutely love it, it was still worth it. And for the most part, I enjoyed the stories in this! Much like another story compilation, there were some stories that I enjoyed a lot more than others. I found that the ones that leaned more high fantasy were a little too much for me and that some were entirely too short to really get a fully fleshed out romance. The compilation itself is very long as well, so I feel like this would have been better if only a few authors contributed with some longer stories. However, it was a great way to start some holiday reading and taste test some new-to-me authors!

[Awan]

For all your monsterf/ckery needs!!

Thank you for the ARC! This review is left voluntarily,

There’s a lot of stories compiled in here – and I mean A LOT. There’s something for everyone whether you’re looking for orcs, aliens, werewolves, shifters, vampires – you name it. Not only that but there are also a slew of k/nks to sink your teeth into. I’m sure something will catch your fancy – I sure as hell had some choice highlights. Though the stories are spicy and steamy, I also enjoyed a lot of the romance in many of them. Some of these MCs are sweet as hell and I can appreciate any story that can get me invested in their characters in such a short amount of time and words!!

The proceeds of this anthology is also going to Planned Parenthood so pull your beloved creatures close and snuggle in for a good read – all for a good cause!

[volatilisanguis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really cute selection of not just holiday-themed stories but mistletoe-themed stories. Several authors got really creative with the theme -- shout out to the cursed artifact mistletoe pin imbued with the horny desires of many decades of admin assistants :D. Although not every story was for me, I think they're all well done and editor clearly carefully selected authors with different styles (cozy, dark and action vs slice of life) to meet most readers' interests. It also features a mix of traditional monsters (orcs), supes (weres), and (blue) aliens. I enjoyed the anthology in its own right as a treat to get into the season, but I also found several new-to-me authors, and I'm excited to read more of their work!

[Suze Prescot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Werewolves and vampires, orcs and aliens, fairies and dragons, this book has them all. A variety of writers with an assortment of romantic situations, and all for the charity, Planned Parenthood.
Everyone will find something here they will enjoy, with different heat levels, some humour and a plethora of HEAs.
With seventeen authors, it's hard to single some stories out, but I will;
Kiss Me Under The Mistletoe with Ogar and Willow, by Lizzie Strong, and Good Mornings Under The Mistletoe by Ash Raven, about Brody and Shawna, are both great stories, but my absolute favourites were:
Selina Shaw's Cold Hands, Warm Heart, which is like a fairy tale, and Monsters, Love and Mistletoe about Gabe and Carol by the always-readable, Bella Blair.

[Amber Tate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful collection of holiday-themed short stories involving all your favorite monsters. Each story features a different variety of characters, ranging from human to fae and vampires to orcs. They also ranged from fluffy to dark, bringing something for anyone's preferred taste in sub-genres. Several of these have me craving for more of these amazing characters! I also greatly enjoyed the lgbtqia+ inclusion, as well as inclusion of disabilities and mental health. And the spice was *chef's kiss* in each work.

The variety of writing styles blew me away. While some of these authors were familiar to me, this was a great discovery of new-to-me authors to read more works from. Looking forward to reading more from each of these amazing authors!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this anthology of holiday stories. It featured a nice selection of stories of the monster kind. There is any type of monster for all readers. Some of the ones featured are orc, dragon shifter, minotaur, alien and wolf shifter. Most of the authors are new to me so that is fun. I have discovered so many new authors that I want to read more of their books.

I did enjoy reading these stories. Although, there are some that were my favorite stories were Kiss Me Under the Mistletoe by Lizzie Strong, Yule Love Bites by Petra Palerno, What Makes a Firebug Glow by Kate Prior, Kissing my Grumpy Toll Boss by Ami Wright, Mistletoe Mishaps by Melody Beckett, Treasured by Marian Pattechat, and Jacking Frost by Chloe Alice Balkin.

[Donna Zug · Rating 5 out of 5]

5* This review is for: Mobsters, Life and Mistletoe by Bella Blair
A short sweet story that stirred up my emotions. I laughed, teared up, was frustrated, wanted to shake Gabe and Carol and really really wished it was longer. There were so many " if only" moments that would have made their lives so much richer.

5* This review is for: Kissing My Grumpy Troll Boss by Ami Wright
Kat is a gorgon with hair that can bite and her look can turn you to stone so any dream of kissing her boss, Algi, will never happen. And then it does. Her first kiss.
Algi has hopes he'll find his kuna someday but what female would be strong enough to survive his troll lava?
Ami has written a fast paced short story that really delivers.

[Miriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This anthology is SO much fun!! No matter what kind of monster romance or mood you’re looking for, there’s a short story in here for you. I loved the variety of holidays and winter vibes! There were some short stories that made me tear up and some that made me crack up. But they’ll definitely all make you steam up 😏

If you’re looking for a fun, quick, holiday monster read, this is perfect! My only complaint is that they’re not all full length stories 🤣 Your honor, I love them.

Thank you so much to L. E. Eldridge and all the amazing authors involved for sending an ARC for an honest review! 💖