Her Monstrous Beasts

Her Vicious Beasts #5

by E.P. Bali

TBA

Genres: Fantasy, Why Choose, Romantasy, Romance, Dragons, Paranormal, Enemies To Lovers

573 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 31, 2025

Reviews

[Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

perfection ✋🏼 rtc

well it’s been 11 days since i’ve finished and i’m still there with Aurelia and the gang 😭 Monstrous beasts finished me tbh. this series stole my heart, ripped it apart, stomped on it a few times and then put it back together 😭😭😭😭 this series forever will be a god tier series for me.

Monstrous beats was everything I expected. Ghoul is such a little shit and tbh I fucking love him. he did EVERYTHING he really could and i’m so proud of him. I can’t even go into details because it’ll be spoiler galore….

minnie, eugene, henry, the twins, yeti, the WHOLE GANG I love all of them 🫶🏼

bye imma sob again 😂

this ending to this series was perfect. I will forever hope we get a novella about them all. *offers tears & soul*

thank you so much to EP Bali for this gifted advanced copy 🫶🏼

[Romantasy Ruined Me Cherice · Rating 4 out of 5]

It finally ended the end of her vicious beasts.

This series was honestly so amazing. From start to finish, it delivered everything I wanted and more.

Tropes I loved:

Multiple bonded mates

Shifters of every kind of beast

Love conquers evil

What I truly loved about this series is that I was craving a why-choose, bonded mates story that actually leaned into the romance. This one? It’s very much I love her, she loves him, and we’re bonded for life energy done right.

Each book focuses on one of Aurelia’s bonded mates, and the final book centers on Ghoul, her fifth bond, Balkskin.Overall, this series takes you on an emotional roller coaster fantasy, dark romance, heartbreak, redemption, and deep connection. You grow to truly love these characters.

Book One – Savage (the wolf shifter):
This book had me screaming, gasping, upset… and then completely falling in love. Savage is the big bad wolf with a heart of gold for those he loves, and once you’re hooked, there’s no escape.

Book Two – Lyle (the lion shifter):
The headmaster. The leader. The one in charge. His story was heartbreaking in a quieter way, and seeing him finally find happiness with Aurelia made my heart so full.

Book Three – Scythe (the shark shifter):
By this point, I was a total mess. His story was devastating and beautiful. Tears, pain, and satisfaction all rolled into one. I loved every moment

Book Four – Xander (the dragon shifter):
Listen… I was ready to throw this book across the room. He was my most hated Bone member after the betrayal and what he put Aurelia through. But somehow somehow his redemption worked. And before I knew it, I was like wait I kind of like Xander now??

Book Five – Ghoul (Balkskin):
Now here’s where things shift for me. Ghoul wasn’t my favorite bonded mate, and while I still enjoyed the book, it felt rushed. Because this was the final book, the focus leaned more on wrapping up the series than fully developing his love story. Compared to the others, the emotional depth just wasn’t as strong. I really wish Ghoul’s story had more movement, more detail, and more time to breathe like the others did.

I still couldn’t stop reading. The series as a whole is incredible. I would absolutely reread the series… but honestly, Ghoul’s book is the one I will probably skip. It just hit differently from the rest.

Verdict:
I love this series. The final book was kind of good and kind of not, but I still enjoyed it. It almost felt like someone wrote a fanfiction ending to a series I deeply love.

I absolutely recommend reading the series from beginning to end. As a complete story, it’s a five-star experience because baby, I was left a trembling, emotional mess, completely ruined by my favorite bonded mate pack. 💔🔥📖✨

[Enilorac ♡☆❀ · Rating 5 out of 5]

if i could give this an infinitesimal amount of stars, i would. this book was the PERFECT ending to this series and im crying tears of joy at how much the boneweaver pack has prevailed through.
its funny how some characters just hold such a place in your heart where you feel like you know them. ep bali has constructed this series in such a beautiful way that every character, every setting, every relationship is seared into my mind as if i were a character in this story. that just makes the ending so much more bittersweet.
a lot of times in my reviews i go on long rampages that contain abysmal jokes and not thought out thoughts (if that makes sense). for this one, im just going to list a few reasons why i absolutely loved this book, to get to the point better. the point being that i absolutely loved this conclusion to the series and am currently sobbing over it being finished. ahem. here we go:
—aurelia and her mates FINALLY get a happily ever after. holy shit. in the last few moments of this book i was on the edge of my seat. like when does it get better? oh my gosh? someone help? then lia did as lia does and was a total badass and made everything okay again. reading that very last chapter was like tiger balm (shameless book reference) to my weary heart. thank you, miss author.
—the bond not only between aurelia and her mates but all the side characters. dude. when i tell you some of my tears were not exactly happy, i mean that. without spoiling it too ridiculously, i literally cried because day 1 characters who were there for lia from the beginning, do meet their end. and it’s fucking sad, man. it’s crazy how much has changed from that very first book, where a nervous and skittish lia meets sabrina, minnie, connor, raquel, and stacey for the first time. not to mention henry and eugene (precious babies). the growth that occurs in this series is absolutely insane and got me in all of the feels.
—the found family. that’s all i’m gonna say because the FOUND FAMILY in this book hits HARD. i feel emotionally attacked with a familial presence (?). whatever that means. basically this book is cozy and cute while also being bloodthirsty and avenging. #fluffmatterstoo
—and finally, savage, lyle, scythe, xander, and ghoul. if you want love interests that say the sweetest things, have the best dynamics, and will do anything for their girl, these guys are for you. i loves every character in this series but you can really tell these guys changed aurelia for the better.
—side note, the way the author included packs for all the other people and added detail to make it all feel like one big family is so charming. like the devi pack is the cutest and i am so here for them.


after rereading the prior books before the release of this one i can confidently say this is one of my favorite series, ever. please do yourself a favor and don’t waste all the experiences these books give you. READ IT. NOWWWW. i won’t ask again. please.

starting the new year off right.
♾️/⭐️

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a bit boring and not my favorite in the series, but overall, this was an entertaining series. I wanted more from Ghoul...I never really came around to him.

Why did they even have them travel through realms/portals if it was literally for nothing? Tbh I didn't get some of what happened at the ending. Things were unclear and rushed at times, but the book had dragged for so long that I was just ready for it to end.

[Sheree · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The entire world is about to find out what happens when you f*** with the Boneweaver pack."

I don't think I can give this enough stars.
It was just the perfect ending to the series. I definitely felt all of the emotions reading this. Many tears were shed. I felt heartbroken for everything our favourite characters had to go through to reach this final crescendo. Aurelia has really come into her own in this book and is completely different from the girl we met in book one, and so are all the boys!

I will always love the representation in Bali's stories, she includes everybody so effortlessly and genuinely, they never feel token or like ticking boxes. I also always love her fluffy sidekicks. We need to find real nimpins!

I love how her villains are true evil. The ones who will step on and betray everyone to get what they want. The ones who kick puppies and hurt children and traffick people and laugh while they do it. There are no cartoon bad guys here, no empathetic origin story or redeemable qualities. I also love how she relishes destroying them in the most creative ways.

I also love the spicy animalistic scenes where Aurelia and her mates get to explore each other and communicate in a way that transcends words. Their intimacy is so fricken HOT!

In case I wasn't clear enough, this series is in my top favourite series ever and I will always recommend to everyone, though make sure to check the triggers.
Great for fans of Ruthless Boys or The Bonds That Tie.
I strongly recommend reading The Warrior Midwife and Archer Princess trilogies by Bali before reading this last book... for reasons.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have finally come to the conclusion that 1 love interest is enough. 2 okayy ig. Three pushing it. 4 too many. 5 nope. (This book had 5) it’s just way too many like gurl I barely can handle men anyways

So glad this series over, it was pushing its stay. I hate all of the love interests ESPECIALLY Savage. I’m sorry who names someone that?? He talked like a baby most of the time but he is a grown man EW. The author wrote all the characters talking like babies half the time. Savage once said that he was so excited that he could pee his pants. HELL NAHHH Xander, a grown ass man who acts nonchalant 99% of the time calls his sister sissy. Hate that. It’s so inconsistent about what the live interests allow and let lia do. Let my gurl be an independent bad bitch.

The author tried to write a war scene… we all know it was bad. Some character was complaining when the enemy had reinforcements like GURL SHUT UP AND fIGHT!!!

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tears have not stopped flowing...

I was concerned with how Ghoul was going to be handled. How could someone come back from all of THAT? The concern was not needed because his character was explored SO beautifully.

There is so much growth and not even just from Ghoul. This book was the explanation, the connection, the perfect way to explain actions of others in prior books.

Theres so much justice served. Everyone plays an integral part. Just expect the most wild and gut wrenching ride before you get there.

My heart was broken and then mended, just to be broken and mended all over again. I dont know how to move on from this book or these characters.

[LKCREADS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine discovering that one of your mates is magically bound to your father… and has just been ordered to take your life.

This is the fifth and final book in the Her Vicious Beasts series… and boy are you in for one hell of a ride.

This story makes you look straight at the darkness inside yourself. The rage, the loneliness, the insecurity, the question of whether you’re even worthy of love.

And somehow… inside all of that, it gives you safety. It gives you healing. It gives you belonging.

There are lines in this series that will live with me forever.

“We are mirrors, and it triggers both of us to see our reflections.”

And moments where a character understands exactly what’s needed… not softness, but fire and brimstone…

“Give me all of your rage.”

Because sometimes love looks like standing in the dark with someone and saying, I see you.

This book lets you feel what it’s like to be loved exactly as you are. Not in spite of the ugly parts but because of them. To know that someone would burn the world down for you and still say, you’re worth it.

This is some of the best spice I’ve ever read. And I think a huge part of that is because of how emotionally attached I was to the characters and how high the stakes were. The moments of intimacy were so important and pushed the story along but… all I can say is have a dry towel handy or something because… the sweat will pourith… lolol.

“Because there, in the dark, what I see is pure devastation and devotion.”

Yes, this is fantasy, paranormal, why choose fiction.

But it’s so much more…

I didn’t just read this story… I lived it. Their love was my love. Their loss was my loss.

There were moments I was shocked, moments I was cheering, moments I was fully sobbing.

“I vow to love you better in the next life.”

I was not prepared for the grief. But that’s life… on the page and outside of it.

What surprised me most is how deeply this series matures. You start with book one thinking it’s a fun why choose… and then suddenly you’re dealing with sacrifice, forgiveness, redemption, and the terrifying truth that sometimes love demands everything.

Every character. Even the side characters. Mattered. Found family in its purest form.

By the end, when I read the author’s dedication… thanking the main characters… and the entire cast basically… and she said “There are a lot of people who will carry you around always and cherish these books. We promise not to forget you.”

It felt like a goodbye to friends I’d grown up with.

Now that it’s over, I feel completely full and completely empty at the same time.

I feel safer for having read it. Less alone. More understood.

Books can change your life.
This series changed mine.

I don’t know how to explain that without breaking down… so this is me trying.

It hurts that it ended.
But I am endlessly grateful that I got to live it at all.

“There’s something in the air that’s making monsters out of beasts.”

Are you ready to meet them?

[sam | sammylou.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC!!

[Maratatouille ;)]

Arc reader ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMFGGG!!! I've been waiting for this book and it did not disapoint. I couldn't put it down I totally binge read it.

It was really good, and i feel like it was a good ratio of action and romance. I did feel like it was a little long at some time but overall it was really great pacing.
And omgg the end??? Excuse me? I need more like right now. It should be illegal to end a book like this.

If you liked the previous books you are going to like this one. It doesn't really take place at the academy but it is to be expected after the end of the last book.

[Shadow Kissed Chronicles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Monstrous Beasts (Her Vicious Beasts, Book 5)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Emotional devastation, respectfully delivered

Whew… what a whirlpool of emotions this entire series has been.
This is an epic ending - and I’m still sitting in that strange, hollow space where I wanted my characters to get their HEA, but I am absolutely not ready to say goodbye. The kind of ending that feels earned, devastating, beautiful… and cruel simply because it ends.

Let me say this about Her Vicious Beasts series as a whole:
This is not just a romantasy. This is layers.
We’re talking politics.
All kinds of shifters.
Fated mates.
Found family.
Hidden identities.
Hidden powers.
And so much emotional damage woven so seamlessly into the story that you don’t even realize how deep you’re in until you’re drowning - and begging for more.

Now… Book 5.
There are so many moments across these 500+ pages that it’s hard to even know where to begin.
Even though this is technically Ghoul’s book, I need to start with Xander.
This man…
He redeemed himself. Fully. Completely. Painfully.
There is something about a character who hits rock bottom, who believes - truly believes - that he doesn’t deserve anything good… and then claws his way back up anyway. Watching Xander confront who he’s been, who he hates himself for being, and who he chooses to become? That arc was powerful. He didn’t just redeem himself - he went above and beyond. And yes, once again, he cemented himself as one of my favorites.

And before we get to Ghoul, we have to talk about Scythe, Savage, and Lyle.
They had it rough at the beginning of this book - there’s no denying that - but watching them come back stronger than ever was everything. As always, they were that unshakable presence behind Aurelia: steady, lethal, loyal to the bone. Ready to do anything for their mate. Their devotion, their strength, and the way they continue to choose her - again and again - only reinforced why this found family hits so hard.

And then… Ghoul.
I don’t love saying this, but I TOLD YOU SO (respectfully)...
I knew there was more behind that ruthless general façade. I knew there was depth, pain, history… but what was revealed absolutely broke my heart. Ghoul is the perfect example of why morally grey - if not outright morally black - characters will always own my soul. I won’t spoil anything, but I will leave you with this one, devastating, out-of-context line:

“And you need to know that it had always been me.”

If you know, you know.
If you don’t - just wait.
And finally… our regina.
This woman fought so hard for everyone she loves. Every sacrifice, every decision, every ounce of strength she had - she gave it willingly. Without hesitation, I can say she is one of my favorite FMCs of all time. Fierce, loyal, emotionally complex, and unapologetically powerful in both love and leadership.
So please... Pick up this series. Read it. Let it ruin you.
And when you’re sitting there after the final page, staring into space and wondering what to do with your feelings… I’ll be right here with you.

To E.P. Bali - thank you. Truly.
Thank you for bringing this story into our lives. This is, without question, one of the best series I’ve ever read.

[shelby (shelbyreadssmut) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Could’ve been shorter imo but I still had a blast and such a good end to a series🥹

[Carola · Rating 2 out of 5]

2,5*

Unfortunately this series went down hill in the last books.

[vikaఌ]

Coming out December 30

[Taylor Lichty · Rating 5 out of 5]

5🌟
♾️🌟 series for me.

“Finally, she shows me her fangs,” I say.

“Finally, I realise that the monsters in the jungle are no scarier than me,” she purrs. “Finally, I realise that the only thing stopping me from being the bigger predator was myself.”



The star of this book is Aurelia. Her character arc over the course of this series has been *chefs kiss*. She was POWERFUL in this book. She realized the strength that she has had this entire time. She realized she is THAT GIRL and dang was I proud of her.

“And yet we find ourselves here. Would you kill me, snakelet, if it came down to it?”
“Yes, Ghoul, I would.”



I freaking love this trope. It hurt my feelings and added some delicious angst to their story. I'm going to say it right now that Ghoul is my favorite. I love my little psycho pookie. The callbacks to even book one were so well done and well planned.

“I made a vow on my mother’s funeral pyre.” The dagger cuts viciously into my skin, and I smile at him as I press my venom into it. “And I make it again now, before you. That you will die in my mother’s name, Athena Boneweaver. And I will make you suffer as she did.”



Queen behavior. Lia deserved her revenge over SEVERAL characters in this series and it was delightful. Also, I felt the crossover was well done and it didn’t bother me any having not read her previous series.

"I think we'll be six happy souls who'll make a difference in the world."



Overall, a beautiful conclusion to one of my favorite series of all time. There were a few plot points left open, and I hope we get to see more of this world in the future. I would also love an epilogue novella just for some fluffy happiness after so much pain. 😂

HUGE thank you to the author and her team for the ARC. What an honor it has been!

[Nim_reads_a_lot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is now officially one of my favorite fantasy series ever. Perfect for dark romance fantasy readers who want to be devastated. As a huge fan of this author I found the amount of detail and connections to other books she wrote to be one of my favorite parts of this story. She wraps up all these loose threads in this final book and it’s perfection. I was hooked from the beginning and kept looking at the percentage read as I couldn’t believe what was happening so early in the book. I mean, a ton happens. Aurelia has to rescue her mates and she is full on vengeful woman-in-rage and I loved it. We encounter a lot of violence and loss in this book. The triggers helped prepare me and I suggest you read them if you’re sensitive to that. It is DARK and sad. Evil people do get their due and that should keep you calm. I almost didn’t know how she was going to pull a happy ending out of it but somehow she did. When I finished the story I wanted more and hope she does spin off stories. This book must be read in order and to have the best deep dive I suggest reading the Warrior Midwife and Archer Trilogies and the tiny short story “My Dark Hearted Darling”. I have read them all and found the experience richer because of it. It was a wild ride and I’m honored to have been given an ARC from the author. I recommend this book for those who like why choose romances set in a modern world with shifters. It has a lot of spice and everything is well written. So good.

[Jess | jadecanread]

Currently reading and I'm screaming.

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to score an ARC and I’m so sad to see this series end. There’s a reason I was cheering for Ghoul and getting to see behind the shadows was definitely worth the wait.
So much happened in this final instalment I feel like I just read 3 books. There wasn’t just a wrap up of threads and neat conclusion here, it was a journey and a hell of a heartbreaking ride.

[Venla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can’t believe the series is over. At the same time I feel bittersweet but mostly relieved.

There was so much build up in these books but unfortunately for me it all fell flat in this book.

I was SO excited for this book, but I’m not going to lie, after reading it, I was really disappointed.
I wanted to love this book in the way I loved all the others in this series.

The beginning was great.
I couldn’t wait for the final battel and sacrifices they would have to make, but after reading to 68% of the book, every time Aurelia was about to face one of her enemies, her plans were nine out of ten times stupid and not though out. Mostly it just seemed like she ran straight into danger.

A lot of the chapters also just felt like fillers without any purpose for the plot.

When she got her four mates back, I thought they would now actually try to work together, but no, Aurelia still went solo most of the time. At one point it felt like she didn’t even speak to Savage, Sycthe, Xander and Lyle.

One of my big disappointments (mostly because it felt ridiculous) was when Aurelia, not once but TWICE, got down and dirty with one or two of her mates while someone was trying to actively KILL HER.

I wanted her to grow so badly, to become the Boneweaver she is, the regina she is, but she was just as careless and thoughtless in this book as she was in the first.
She had gained so much power but at the same time she didn’t seem that powerful.
Maybe it was the writing, I don’t really know, but in the end I expect her to be like second to God.

I so, so badly wanted to give this book five stars, but I just can’t.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhh I’m not ready to say good bye to this series 😭

I have been waiting for Ghoul’s book and it was perfection. His story is quite devastating and Aurelia handles him the best way she can.

There were a lot of intense and emotional moments and everything wrapped up well. I did find some of the “final” battle a bit rushed but in the end it all made sense and was beautiful.

Truly one of my favorite shifter series of all times!!!

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

She’s a five star series, what can I say?

Epic finale to this amazing series. It’s so bittersweet that it’s over but what a ride it was.
I loved seeing Aurelia truly come into her own and embrace her power in this book! Our Regina is not playing around and she’s not letting anyone mess with her or her mates.
It was definitely a satisfying and at times devastating conclusion to everything that was built up over 5 books.
Ghoul and his story surprised me. I wasn’t sure where the author was going with his character and I had no idea how she could redeem him when he’s been on the wrong side the whole series, but she really delivered! I love him so much.
And the cast of characters is one of my favorite parts of this series and I loved the way they all participated in the final showdowns. But did I mention it was devastating? Be prepared.
This without a doubt goes down as one of my top why choose series ever! It’s a must read!

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely perfect

This was just absolute perfection I cried I laughed I gasped I yelled and cheered. That is how you end a series!

[Edith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolute cinema!

What a good series it was. What a wild ride it was. How many times did I tell myself "bitch, you could have killed your father right there!".

Savage with his child like quality is still my favorite. Close second is now Ash. Poor thing just wanted food and love.

[tara ⏾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.6 ☆

kindle unlimited

𝜗𝜚 tropes: reverse harem | paranormal romance | slow burn | found family | forced proximity 𝜗𝜚

i’ve been waiting for this one for so long. this series lowkey ruined my life but i love it anyways. seriously, the female friendship was everything to me in this. also, lia’s rage?? pls Im obsessed. im so sad this is over. the sacrifices killed me but god, this was beautiful.

𝜗𝜚 reaction:
i’ve been WAITING for this one. prologue. savage, my love. one year ago. when they got their fucking markings. i fucking love savage. this is making me ill tho. the call of the rooster is ghouls kryptonite. lmao, imagine it’s been eugene this entire time. THATS WHY THEYVE HAD HIM. EUGENE. he shifted. he fucking shifted. aurelia pov. i’m scared. he’s still a dragon & she’s fucking pissed. xanders mark has returned. she’s back at the academy. omg. the academy’s talking to her. “welcome my lady.” is she in charge of the school now? minnie): they’re calling the dabu pack. xander pov. FLORENCE + THE MACHINE MENTIONED. she’s darting them. all of them have descended into their beasts. the collectors hold on xander is weak. selena & his mom are alive, i hope they help lia. connor. no. he didn’t lock xanders chains properly. the collectors laughing now but that won’t last. lia pov. she has the guys clothes. she shifted into her eagle form. sabrinaaa. HENRY. EUGENE. beak is asking for her. now stacey’s in bed with her. a meeting? a jaguar man? what is happening? rufus. she’s now the director of scythes stuff? his entire empire. her first work of business is to sign an execution order. simon clawson. she won’t sign it. that’s her cousin. oh gods. beak. they’re talking. oh lord. she agreed? he’ll step back when her mates come back. minnie’s so excited that lia is now a mob boss. ghoul pov. he’s in the new naga mansion. hes watching videos of the battle of drakos estate. a meetings happenings. the collectors coming, isnt she? all the leaders actually. no. mace is taking over. drugging all the leaders. no. lia pov. i fucking love minnie. the dabu pack has arrived. PLS. what’s happening? the old way? shes writing a letter in her own blood. omg. she’s getting a hyena? a messenger. a letter for his queen. she’s in her dragon form. HOLY SHIT. lias the new protector of the academy. holyyy shit. xander pov. he’s gonna try to reach out to lia. they’re at the collectors. oooo. he’s gonna use connor’s phone. she’s gonna keep them in fucking cages. she collared xander. no. scythe. she better fucking not. xander didn’t allow it. i’m sick. i hate this so bad. she has fucking humans in cages. the hyena queen is there. no. xander. pls. he has to kill her. no. his headphones. wait. what’s happening. omg. xander can feel lia. YES YAY WOOO HOOOO. ghoul pov. ugh. fucking mace. ghoul is going to the collectors. LMFAOOOO. lia wrote the letter pretending to be her dad. what is up with xanders mark? LMFAO. the letter burned the hyena queen. YES. LIA MARKED THEM FOR DEATH. hyena queen laughedddd. connor. LMFAO. lyle shit in her bed. lia pov. she’s in dragon form still. a tiger is approaching. tiberius clawson wants an audience. i can’t believe this. i fucking love bastien. omggg. he put in a lift. i fucking love that. ghouls there. shit. he wants her venom. she gave it but she’s still going. RAQUELLL. marduk is a fucking g. lia’s taking them all with her. okay. they’re there. i’m so nervous. titus is there. no. what the fuck. titus wants her as his regina. what’s happening? they’re tampering the water supply. that won workkkk. she’s the guardian now. no. poison. shit. minnie revealed herself. omg. lia & minnie are going back. they’re sisters of blood now. i am devouring this. i love minnie & lia rage. yessss. minnie. i love. THE GHOST OF CASSIUS FUCKING CLAWSON. she can see his ghost. i’m sobbing. the guys came backkkk. SABRINA. oh im really sobbing now. i want to cry. xander pov. he’s still protecting scythe. he’s hearing her call. hes in astral form. i’m sick. ghoul pov. the collectors there with xander. titus is there too. what is phase two???? lia povvv. beaks there. they’re on patrol. what is lia planning? she knows mace is in charge now. the lockdowns over. she’s in the library & calling selena. rufus called. no. the collector. she has lia’s mates on chains. naked. she’s going to them. to the jewel of the jungle. ghouls there too. she just outed the unicorn bit omg. no. pls tell me she poisoned her or something. she left. xander pov. another florence referenceeee. LMFAO. ghoul & xander team up. omg. lia did do something to her hand. no. the collectors breaking them down. shit. someone’s creeped up on her. three helicopters. her father. fuck. no. they got her new leg. what has she shifted into? beak has her. xander pov. he’s in dragon form. omg somethings changed. he’s sleeping in savage & lyles cage. omg. her hand is bandaged. AHHHH. LIA CURSED THE COLLECTOR. lia pov. she’s heard. shit. the academy was raided. LMAO. an arrest warrant. she called for ghoul. ghoul pov. christine talked to him a long time ago lmao. books. important books. she wants the heat dosage stuff. oh she tried to regina command him. he wants something from her? a dress? raquel’s astral form. OMG. lia pov. ghouls there. where is he taking her? his house. under disguise as a woman named jade? what is happening? hos fucking bride? what? jade brown. an engagement party. the real jade is dead. wait. did he incinerate someone? ghoul can lay eggs?? she sees the other council members. he’s just gonna keep bringing her back. he brought her the viles. ghoul pov. he’s back at the collectors. she’s underground. no. scythe. no. fuck. huh? long game? like mace was with him? lia pov. shit. money laundering issues. she has a plan for the rescue. involving the nimpins. her girl pack. i’m gonna sob. no males can come LMFAO. they’re gonna take the heat serums. the dabu pack is there. all the girls are. it’s go time. they even have fancy ear pieces. xander pov. YES. LIAS COMING. lia pov. lady hyenas there. omg. she’s out herself in heat. no. stacey found her rex. i mean, good for her but horrible timing. LMFAO. did she just put the hyena queen in heat? shit. no. they have her in the mating room. LYLE. SHE BROKE HIS SPELL. LYLE POV. lia pov. oh no. savage pls. savage pov. YES MY LOVE HES BACK. lia pov. YES. THE COLLECTORS DEAD. ate her in fucking crocodile form. xander pov. not him being the only one who didn’t partake. where is lorian? omg. one of the crocs shifted. what’s happening? lyle pov. shit. some of the crocs are going crazy. CELESTE. SHE CAME FOR LORIAS. sabrina no. holy shit. she shifted into a basilik. scythe pov. they’re getting lorian out. celeste & lorian left this world ): i’m gonna sob. she’s going through a treasure haze lmfaooo. savage pov. i love his & lyle’s friendship. they’re at the sea. i love her treasure haze. xander has to fake being sick LMAO. now savage is too. they’re all showering together. LMAO. movie nightttt. ghoul pov. he seen everything. omg. he can see the collectors soul. AH. he just realized lia shifted into a basilisk. lyle pov. he’s talkin to xander. she did not just ask that. she’s standing watch with a kitchen knife. scythe pov. they’re going back to the academy. stop. xander, my heart. she put the collectors head on a spike at the gateee. lia pov. omg. she’s telling them she’s the new guardian. xander is joining her in his patrol. ghoullll. ooo no. the treasure haze has worn off. ghoul pov. oh lord im nervous. his real name? what’s happening? lia pov. he regrets not going with him. no. in all their lives ghoul always betrays her. where is lia going now? she’s in her possum forum. she’s breaking into ghouls house. ghoul fifteen years ago. he was alone in a cave before mace found him. that’s why he swore an oath to him. he’s the one who stayed in the shack before lia did. lia pov. she’s seeing his memories. stacey): poor girl. she’s sneaking into ghouls house again. no. just following ghoul. ghoul pov. he knows she’s stalking him. no. he’s at a strip club. i will not forgive him. lia pov. she bit him. LMAO. she’s dragging him along. ughh. scythe pov. he’s riding on xanders back. omg. all the kids made them thank you cards. dabu pack. oh shit. mace has some ancient serpent weapon. oh shit. they seen lia return. savage pov. they’re gonna follow her lmfao. i love how they’re not even mad. savage is still my fav. LMAO. i love his povs. he’s just hanging onto his tail. following lia. LMFAO. what’s happening? LMAO. xander pov. is he jealous or worried? they’re following her again. they’re at a warehouse. omg. lia disappeared. she can hide in the shadows nowwww. ghoul, fifteen years ago. no. mace had his friends bite ghoul. lia pov. i’m sick over this ghoul shit. she wants to kill her father. xanders going to his family estate. the academy’s trying to tell her something. a warning? scythe pov. he’s meeting with the devi pack. what are scythe & minnie planning? lia pov. she’s researching in the boneweaver book. she’s found an ancient door. omg another gargoyle. that’s who she guards. ashfang. an enchantress made him. the ancient power feels familiar? lyle found her. what was in that room? mace is recruiting. she’s going to classes again, i’m so worried for her. she’s snuck out again. she went to her dads lecture. wait. what’s she seeing now? all what time? she’s blacked out. ghoul, seven years ago at aurelia’s bungalow. he felt her. oh my gof. he’s the one who left her plates of food. it was always him helping her. scythe pov. he’s following lia. no. lia. ghoul pov. one year ago. when she was in crow form. he’s the one who left the takeout bag for her. lia pov. they’re gonna stay out for a bit. she told them everything. xander pov. they’re back at the academy. they’re gonna go after ghoul. ghoul pov. he knows savage was there. savage burnt him. oh no. mace has his true name. he’s gonna stale his dominance. his townhouse is in ruins so he’s at maces. they’re at the bungalow. he wants to claim lia publicly. he has raquel. i forgot. xander pov. they didn’t follow her that time. club venom at 10?? lyle pov. they’re at the club. LMFAO SAVAGES SEQUIN PANTS. LMAO. lyle in a green wig. oh jesus. serpent orgy. ghoul. in basilisk form. LIAS ON HIS FUCKING BACK. lia pov. she’s jade brown rn. mace is there. guards are coming for the stage. phew. they’re all getting out. ghoul pov. mace. he recognized lia. he wants her dealt with now. ghoul will be the one to do it. i’m sick. lia pov. she woke up, knowing. LMAO SAVAGE. she’s gonna go fight ghoul. RAQUEL. savage pov. he’s on xanders back. they’re gonna get savage in to see what’s happening. lia pov. omg. they’ve both shifted. xander pov. the warehouse is housing children? child soldiers. no. raquel’s regina to the silver tails. lia pov. she blacked out. ghoul pov. one year ago. he called it our cottage. she’s leaving. wait. he put himself in the dungeon on purpose? so lia would come? lia pov. shadow around his spine? wait. eugene told her what? omg. she tore his mask off. what? a mating lock? LMFAOOO they’re locked together. scythe pov. they’re still in the warehouses. fucking titus. lyle pov. they’re going back into the second warehouse. MINNIE. YES. savage pov. no. titus ripped off yetis fucking foot. minnie mauled him. ghoul pov. they’re in the bungalow. lia pov. stop. they’re all yearning for her so bad. ghoul doesn’t believe he could ever be free. the locks ended. no pls. she can’t kill him. she dosed him. fuck pls. she sliced his achilles heel. natalia. omg. she remember when lia saved her. her venom controls ghoul. natalia let her go. savage pov. toastieee. my poor girl): she’s back. she’s on her period too. lia pov. she’s going to see minnie. wait. what’s happening? mates of the fallen. i’m sick. she’s in there. sabrina isn’t getting along with minnie. savage is still my fav btw. they’re having a meeting rn. she knows about the kids. EUGENEEEE. they’re gonna go through his memories. EUGENE POV. HOLY SHIT. HOLY SHIT. just over a year ago. lord agnis? omg. eugene’s mate has an illness. lia pov. they’re gonna pry a bit. eugene pov. no. mace was experimenting on ghoul?? what fucking incident? SAVAGE. they went back farther. when eugene met the cobra king. his mate has cancer. the warehouse. omg. no. dark magic? from ghoul? omg. ghouls who sent eugene to lia. scythe pov. mace is bringing a fucking apocalypse. they’re gonna stop him. minnie is head of the tigers now. a dragons coming. lia pov. SELENE. ooo. finally. a divorce from francesca. omg. the hidden door. finally. is she gonna go to a different world? omg. there’s a fucking portal. that’s what’s behind the door. what she’s the guardian of. she thinks the other boneweavers would reject her. i’m so scared of that portal. xander pov. he’s with selene. uhhh. what fate? what does that black mating mark mean? why does xander need a pen and paper? lia pov. etienne escaped. stacey was rex commanded. ugh. she told him everything. they’re sending the students home. fuck. fuck. she’s tracking mace. i’m sick. why did she go there alone? he wants her to reject ghoul & her other mates will live. she’s shifting into a basilisk. he’s asking her for a blood oath. no. she’s agreeing. no. SHE VOWED TO KILL HIM. FOR HER MOM. she condemns him to hell. xander pov. ooo. lia’s asking for his help. ghoul pov. omggg he seen lia leave mace. i’m so scared. lia pov. sabrina, the twins and stacey are refusing to leave. no. mace is the new leader of the entire anima population now. no. he’s ordered the dissolution of the academy. no. all students will be sent to blackwater. she’s gonna go through the portal. her whole pack is. minnie’s pack will be in charge. savage pov. LMFAO. i love him. ooo. a passage way. omg. a trapdoor. they have to go down it. omggg. she’s shifted into a blue rosella. omg. they have to go through the water. the entrance was literally made for a boneweaver. no. somethings watching savage. oh god. giant squid thing. she’s walking into the heart. lia pov. they’re in daylight. they walked through the portal. omg. boneweavers. two of them. omg. sent by the wild mother? omg. that first boneweaver is the fucking king. azhale & altara. & lord kai & raen. her cousins. i love altara. xander pov. he’s jealous lmfaooo. zale was once a captive. no. she can’t sacrifice herself. omg. omg. dragons haven’t been able to shift there in centuries. the dark cleavers are there. he’s shifting omg. a dark bond? what did he ask the king? & why am i being left in the dark? omg. they way her to be the boneweaver queen of her world. scythe pov. mace will be there by late afternoon. omg. all his sworn beasts are there. lia pov. she’s just gonna try to kill her father first. she just wants to go back to the family she’s found. ghoul pov. lia’s seeking him out. lia pov. theresa is still there. her facility stayed to help. omg. xander bought them all necklaces. oh god. she made a weapon with her venom, blood, & her femur bone. YES. she’s having the academy strengthen itself. eugene & savage have matching goggles. did eugene just do coke? i love the team names. xander better not fucking sacrifice himself. what remains of the collectors head has turned into a gargoyle. savage pov. no. children. no. fucking canons. lyle pov. he’s protecting lia. i’m so scared. the council members. shit. no pls. ghoul. no. they got trapped in a net. lia pov. the bomb. pls. no. sabrina. the assassins. no. pls no. obsidian bullets. no. what is happening. beak. no. what the fuck. no. a dragon. no. did xander just go into that fucking void? ghoul pov. the guys went to meet him nights before. omg. ghoul locked sabrina in the cabinets for her own safety. no. xander thinks he’s gotta die. no. no. no. xander pov. EXIT MUSIC BY RADIO HEAD? NO. no. that’s why he let the boneweavers ride him. no. i’m gonna be sick. no. scythe pov. towards maces truck??? are we sure this is a fucking hea. lia pov. she’s in the vortex. no. they both are gone. HER MOM??? scythe pov. i’m so scared. they’re saving ghoul. NIMPINS. lia pov. cassius. they want her to bring them ghoul. no. she pushed him out. savage pov. reinforcements. lia pov. THE NEVKLACE. OMG. WAS THAT A UNICORN HAIR??? xander pov. he’s losing his shit. ghoul pov. no. lyle. ghouls still alive. mace made it out. I WAS RIGHT. SHES A FUCKING UNICORN. the felines. they have come to fight for their queen. minnie. lia pov. RAQUEL. mace is running. scythe pov. YES. lia paralyzed mace. they’re taking his fangs. EKO. EKO. OMG. walked to them. lia pov. he’s sacrificing himself. ghoul. he’s free. Vinaash. that’s his name. CONNOR. ghoul is ash now. EUGENE. his mates omfg. sabrina ): no. EUGENE SHIFTED. i’m sobbing. ash pov. the children omg. savage is so good with them. XANDERS MATING MARK IS GLOWING AGAIN. aurelia. three months later. theyre building a new house. the memorial ): omg. xander brought her a throne. that was a beautiful.


𝜗𝜚 quotes:

- I attempt to speak his language, crouching low. “Bok bok bok!” The rooster cocks his head and lets out a sound like a question. “I knew it!” I cry, simultaneously leaping and tackling him to the ground.

- And that is the vision of Xander, looking up at me from the ground, his eyes very much alive with a midnight darkness upon his neck. A skull with five beams of dark light curling around it. His mating mark has returned, but different from before.

- “That’ll do it,” she pipes. “A woman scorned is…” “A woman out for revenge,” The Collector snickers. I say nothing as I climb into the back seat of their Jeep and turn my head eastward, in the direction of my regina.

- “The academy has a new guardian now. That’s all I ever was. There is a power here that must be protected, and if you so choose, you can tap into it.” I can only stare down at her. “If you need me, I’ll be at the Agnis family property. Goodbye, Aurelia.”

- “I’m proud of you, child,” Cassius says, looking up from them. His dark eyes are sad and shiny. “In another life, I would have heard you call me dad.”

- “Let’s get one thing very fucking clear, Xander Drakos. There is no one in any world who can take my mates from me. There is nowhere you can hide. Nowhere they can hide you. I will destroy everything and everyone in my path until you are all back in my nest. Including”—she bares her teeth at me—“your cursed ass. Is that understood?”

- “They said you destroyed six helicopters, Lia!” “Lies!” I exclaim, waving my arms, and then crossing them defensively. “I counted four.” Minnie chokes. “That’s really great and all, Lia. Like…really great, but it means there’s a very inconvenient arrest warrant out for you.” “Wasn’t there already one in place?” Stacey says, re-tying her pigtails. “Or was that finished and they’ve begun another?” “I can’t bloody keep track,” I mutter. “Arrest warrant this, arrest warrant that. Is there food?”

- “Hut hut!” Minnie cries, and while standing on Xander’s back, she kicks something into the air like a football. Her aim is accurate, and Savage leaps up and catches the thing like a professional AFL player, before landing in the squelching mud. He holds up the head of Katerina Crocodylus by the hair like the Grand Final trophy before climbing back up to the platform and holding her up to the retinal sensor. The door hisses as it unlocks.

- “We’ve spoken before about how grief can come in waves,” Roland says. “Sometimes it’ll hit you harder in different seasons of your life. Other times, you might be triggered by seeing something that reminds you of that person.” “Mine feels like it’s there all the time,” Sabrina says. “Like a heavy jacket I can’t take off.”

- “I went to see him yesterday and took a helium balloon. I drew a get-well card with a wooden stool and a smiley face.” “Why a wooden stool?” I ask. “Because they only need three legs.”

[a · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

3🌶

This book and the whole series was incredible. I sobbed, and I cheered. I genuinely don't understand why this series isn't hyped more. What a brilliant ending to this series. My favourite series of 2025!

I don't know what I'm going to do with my life now.

[Lidia201 · Rating 5 out of 5]

„There must be something about shifting into a dragon that gives a girl the audacity of a cis-gendered white man”

Thank you for sharing this ARC copy with me ❤️

6 ⭐️ cause 5 aren’t enough.
The HVB series will be my holy grail forever, and I will be grateful to the author for the rest of my life for introducing these characters into my life.

I don't even know when this book flew by, I felt as if my eyes were floating through the pages like Scythe through ocean waves! It kept my on my toes from the start. The anxiety I had during the last chapters is indescribable…

I really didn't want this book to end. I'm not ready to be separated from my babies 😩😩😩 I NEEED AN EPILOGUE NOVELLA RN!! and it better have 100 pages at least.

And honestly- I feel unsatisfied when it comes to Ghoul.
I don't think he's earned his place in Boneweaver's pack in these few chapters. We neeeeddd moooreee of him!

The best parts of this book were Xander tracking Aurelia through her panties and Aurelia's treasure haze - i almost died laughing. „Boneweaver Baddie” had me dead 💀

My official ranking:
1. Savage
2. Xander
3. Scythe
4. Ghoul
5. Lyle (he lost most of his personality after the 2nd book i fear… we need more of him in the epilogue novella)


I could say that „I can’t wait to come back to the boneweaver pack in future”, but that would be false, as they all constantly live in my head rent free.

[alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★ Her Monstrous Beasts☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★

⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´

🎶 “Hold me, love me, touch me, honey. Be the first who ever did” 🎶

First he took Lia’s mother, then he came for her, and now he wants everything she has left. With her mates stolen and fury burning through her blood, Aurelia must rise and prove why she is the true regina of the Boneweaver pack. But her fifth mate, the dark and elusive beast she cannot fully read, has been hiding a devastating truth. Bound to her father by an unbreakable tie, his past may be the one threat she cannot fight head on.

🤍•.¸✿¸.•💌•.❀•THOUGHTS •❀.•💌•.¸✿¸.•🤍

[Savage]

“I can’t help it,” I sigh, sitting my chin on my fists. “You’re far too interesting and beautiful and talented.” She presses her lips together, trying not to smile. “I want to know what it’s like to be you.”

Savage is genuinely the definition of a perfect character. 💖🌙✨💗⭐When everything is going wrong and the room feels heavy, he’s the one bringing light back into it. He has this chaotic but wholesome energy that makes even the darkest moments feel survivable. His childlike behavior, bubbly personality, and the way he loves so openly just makes him impossible not to adore. He wants everyone to be happy, all the time, and you can feel how deeply he cares about his people. Every scene he’s in becomes better. He’s funny without trying, naturally charming, and somehow always knows when someone needs a laugh. He’s also such an empath. Whenever Lia is hurting, he feels it just as deeply 🥹💓💌✨. He wants to cry when she cries because all he wants to do is protect her. That caretaker instinct is so strong in him. He loves her fiercely, purely, and without hesitation, and it shows in everything he does. He’s just joy in character form.

[Scythe]

Scythe’s arc was genuinely hard to read. Watching him under the Collector’s control was horrifying, especially knowing how much he’s already been taken advantage of his entire life. The fear of seeing that cycle repeat was intense. Xander protecting him was such a relief, because Scythe deserves so much better than the hand he’s been dealt. His childhood trauma alone is devastating, so seeing him finally find gentle, unconditional love with Lia felt incredibly earned. She’s his person. They understand each other in a way that feels quiet and natural. Him overcoming his land psychosis and finally just being able to exist with her, safely and peacefully, was exactly what he needed. Soft love suits him, and it healed something that had been broken for so long.

[Lyle]

I will never stop loving Lyle. 💌💖🥹💗🤍 He is a caretaker and protector to his core, but what really sets him apart is how much he respects her autonomy. He communicates. He’s patient. He listens. He grounds her without ever trying to control her. He gives advice gently and wants her to be rational, but if she isn’t, he’s still right there with her, ready to go down swinging if needed.He’s the mediator of the group, the steady presence that keeps everyone balanced. He loves her so deeply, but he never underestimates her strength. He knows she’s powerful on her own, and he doesn’t try to dim that. He just wants her to know that she never has to face anything alone.

[Xander]

I didn’t realise how much I needed to hear that. How much my soul needed to hear my regina declare herself for me.

I can’t bring myself to hold a grudge against Xander, no matter what he’s done. What he went through was brutal. The bond rejection alone was devastating, but he still protected his bond brother and endured everything the Collector put him through so the others wouldn’t carry those memories. He took all of that pain on himself. That matters. What he did is never okay, and it’s always going to linger between them, but he earned his second chance. The bond coming back, glowing again, felt like forgiveness made physical. He was willing to sacrifice himself to protect everyone because he couldn’t forgive himself, and Lia forgiving him was everything. Their connection is unique in a way only they could understand. He saw her at her worst, and she saw him at his most broken. That kind of vulnerability creates something unshakeable.

[Ghoul / Ash]

We never really got the chance to fully connect with Ash early on because he was always on the sidelines, working with her father. But this book finally gave us insight into his past and showed us that he was always there, even when Leah didn’t know it. Seeing his memories helped bridge that gap, and it made his loyalty hit harder. He’ll never be my favorite, mostly because that connection came so late, but I respect him deeply. Even with the blood bond to Mace, he did everything he could to protect her, even when he physically couldn’t be present. Watching him slowly integrate with the rest of his bond brothers was meaningful, and it feels like his story is only just beginning.

🤍•.¸✿¸.•💌•.❀•OVERALL •❀.•💌•.¸✿¸.•🤍

This book gave me everything I wanted. 🥹💗❤️💌 The first half broke my heart. The second half healed it. We needed those soft, lighthearted moments so badly, especially scenes like the treasure haze where she’s taking care of them and refuses to let them go. I could reread that forever. The pain they all endured, together, is what makes this such a powerful found family story. Everyone showed up. Everyone stayed. No betrayals, no selfishness, just people choosing each other again and again. It felt like a real family by the end. Beak and Sabrina’s deaths were devastating. They deserved better, and they’ll always be missed. But the love remains, and that grief felt honest. I’m truly going to miss this family with everything in me. They were solid, loyal, chaotic, loving, and whole. Exactly what found family is supposed to be.

[Mishay Barry · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

Thank you E.P. Bali for the advanced copy of the book!

I started this series with the audiobooks which were recorded by some of my favorite narrators and it sort of consumed me for weeks, so when I was accepted for the arc for this last book I was so ready to complete this series.

I liked getting to have more POVs from all of the group and I liked getting to experience a little more down time with Aurelia and the guys. I do wish we got more time with Ghoul, there was a lot of filler for this book and I usually don’t mind filler so long as it isn’t repetitive I just wish more of it was with Ghoul since this was supposed to be more his book than the rest.

This did get more into the ‘shifterverse’ style writing than the rest of the books, which I’m not too sure how to feel about that. I never thought that I would be reading about a chicken snorting a line of coc@in but it’s definitely in this book so this isn’t the kind of book you can take seriously whatsoever, even with the way it took a really dark turn earlier in the series.

I think we had so much build up that the ending just sort of fell flat and I wanted to get more from the dynamics of the group after everything was sorted out at the end.

In all I still really liked this book and we got a lot out of it, but this definitely needs the ‘less is more’ fix.

[TheDeniseBianca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun and amazing journey with suuuuuch a satisfying ending! I received this last one as an eARC and I’m so honored because I love these characters.

The entire book and the character arc for everyone is about redemption both in public and in private. The power of love in the face of adversity of the harshest kinds and what it means to forgive. You don’t necessarily have to forget to live a happy life with someone that you’ve forgiven, but what needs to happen is growth, on both sides.

The action sequences were interesting, gruesome and shows the power that these characters have harnessed. Such a satisfying progression from book one where I feel like our FMC and her friends felt so powerless. I love that they learned to bolster each other’s characteristics and were able to empower themselves the way the world never allowed them to feel.

The world is very digestible with the magic system that seems almost instinctual and intrinsic rather than anything built off of complex mechanics. The writing quality and verbiage bounces between formal language and the modern vernacular which was interesting for me to experience. So I think any beginner fantasy and dark romance reader can pick this up without too much difficulty. I recommend this series and I hope you allow these books to take you on a fun and empowering journey.