Be My Monster

by Davidson King

Born without the ability to feel pain or fear, Pennsylvania has lived his life believing he’s a monster and a freak. Because most people either keep their distance or are cruel, Penn has spent the last few years wandering from town to town, never putting down roots, never letting anyone know who he really is. Then one night he steps out of the shadows and into the light to save children from a burning house, not knowing he’s saving a mob boss’s kids. That split-second decision changes everything for Penn.

Gideon is a dangerous and powerful man trying to keep his territory profitable and safe, and it’s been peaceful for the last couple of years. Though raising twins as a widower is hard, at least he has family to help him. Family is everything to Gideon, so when someone tries to take them away from him, the once quiet streets turn into chaos. Determined to find his family’s savior, Gideon discovers so much more. His heart, which has felt like it’s barely beat since his wife died, comes to life again when he looks into Penn’s eyes for the first time…the man who risked everything to save his family.

With a war on the horizon, Gideon and Penn have to navigate staying alive, figuring out if there’s a future for them, and destroying the real monsters trying to dismantle everything Gideon’s built.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Dark, Found Family, Contemporary, LGBT, Crime

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2026

About the author

Davidson King, always had a hope that someday her daydreams would become real-life stories. As a child, you would often find her in her own world, thinking up the most insane situations. It may have taken her awhile, but she made her dream come true with her first published work, Snow Falling.

She managed to wrangle herself a husband who matched her crazy and they hatched three wonderful children.

If you were to ask her what gave her the courage to finally publish, she’d tell you it was her amazing family and friends. Support is vital in all things and when you’re afraid of your dreams, it will be your cheering section that will lift you up.

Reviews

[Kati *☆･ﾟ]

***no rating***
dropped @40%

okay like, the minute this popped up on feed I was so excited to read this I abandoned everything else I was supposed to be reading. And in the beginning I kinda liked the simplicity of the storytelling a lot but it all fell flat real fast and by the time I was done (see above) I only went for the ending which was also nothing to write home about.


It’s honestly a bit sad because both plot and characters had a lot of potential that went unexploited. (as far as I could tell)

[Books and Gems · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 🌟

Penn and Gideon 🖤

I LOVE these guys! I devoured this and never wanted to put it down.

The concept of Penn believing he was a “monster” and never quite feeling like he could pit down roots broke me. I loved Penn’s snarky humor, and I adored Penn’s relationship with the twins.

It was a very fast paced read, with very short chapters which I enjoy. I flew through this story, and honestly I could have kept reading about these guys and never gotten bored.

This was my first read from this author, but definitely won’t be my last!

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‼️⚠️ Potential spoilers ⚠️‼️

Dynamic: MM — strict

Sharing? No

Cheating? No

Breakup? No

Sex scene with OM or OW No


‼️⚠️ Content ⚠️‼️

— mafia
— suspense
— widower
— single dad
— touch him and ☠️
— MC who feels no pain or fear
— found family
— instalust
— “baby”
— oral
— sex w condoms
— face fucking
— rimming
— bareback

I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know I've said it before in other books, but it bears to be said again, it's almost funny how Davidson King can take an organized crime leader and a man who doesn't know pain or fear, sprinkle violence and death, and somehow drag a sweet and cute romance out of that mixture. I really enjoyed it.

[TJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

“If you don’t get ugly, vicious, if you don’t bite back ten times harder than Lorcan, he will decimate your empire, kill your entire family while you watch, and then salt the earth so no one can ever grow from your roots again. Whatever your strategy was before needs to be tossed away, and you need to be my monster.” - Penn

Drifter saves kids from a fire and catches the eye of a powerful man. After lots of action and back and forth, the two men find themselves in love and the drifter finds family and a home.

Quick Thoughts:
⭐️3/5
🌶️2/5
💭 Meh. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t honestly feel much between the MCs until maybe the end. They had a couple spice scenes before they were more “official” but those didn’t help build a bond to me as they were just described in short passages and not super passionate. To me, there was no reason these two were in love. It might just be a personal thing but I was rooting for more. At one point, Penn said he was so hard it hurt. If Penn can’t feel pain, can he describe the pain of a hard on? The story leaned more towards talking about the crime going on and trying to solve their problem with the “enemy” and the time the MCs spent together that would be considered bonding happened off page and would just say “3 days later”. One of the spicy scenes they showered after and then laid down together and Penn just pops the question: “How did your wife die?” Like, Penn, ya’ll just fucked for the first time and you think now is a good time?? Just because you can’t feel pain for fear doesn’t mean you can’t feel passion and sympathy?? I just really can’t get into the mindset to believe they love each other and are gonna be forever.

💁‍♂️Main Characters:💁‍♂️

Pennsylvania:
“He doesn’t want to be thanked, Dean.” I stared out the window at the bar. “He wants to be forgotten.” - Gideon

28 years old, Bright green eyes, Has FAAH-OUT which causes him to be unable to feel pain or fear, Currently Barbacking at a dive bar but never stays anywhere for long before traveling to the next town.

Gideon Hendrix:
I was going to tear this building down brick by brick until Penn was in my arms again. - Gideon

Widower, Single father of twins (Owen & Olivia), Mafia/Mob Boss Head of a powerful syndicate, Black hair with black eyes to match

🔥🌶️Intimate/Spicy Moments Include:🌶️🔥

- Masterbating
- Frotting
- Blowjobs, Handjobs, Face Fucking
- Rimming
- Anal, safe sex
- Bareback

🛑⚠️Trigger/Content Warnings: ⚠️🛑

- Death, Violence, Kidnapping, Assault (on page)
- Mentions of the Death of a Partner
- Mentions of the Death of a Family Member
- Deaths involve: Breast Cancer, Pulmonary Embolisms, Hospice, and other crime related deaths.
- House Fire
- MC Hospitalized

❤️Tropes/Themes:❤️

- Crime/Mafia
- MM Romance
- Rescue/Save

📝Quotes:📝

I looked out the window once again. The ducks were gone, and even though Tennessee sat beside me, I felt alone. - Penn

“Like Batman,” Olivia whispered in my ear.

“Are they gonna hurt you some more, Penny?” Well shit, she called me Penny.

“You put me there, huh?” “Family,” was his answer, as if it were completely obvious.

“She uh…she told me I was going to fall in love with someone great one day.” “Did she now?” His smile grew. “Yeah.” “And did you ever fall in love with someone great?”...”I did.” “Lucky guy.”

💤The Boring Stuff: 💤
Book #: Not a Series
Published 25 Feb 2026 at 231 Pages (per Kindle)
Read 26 Feb 2026 via Kindle Unlimited
1st Person, Dual POV


Reviewer Note: I think I give stars away way too easily but I can’t help myself. It can be safely assumed all of my reviews are from books that the animal lives, are 1st Person, have a HEA, and have no intimate or spicy scenes with anyone/thing other than MC(s) unless otherwise detailed. I try to rate books objectively if they have something I don’t typically like (i.e. Break Ups, SA, 3rd Person, Single POV, Sharing Partners). If it’s still written well the author deserves the praise but I will make note to avoid for myself in the future. I do my best to mark different triggers/warnings as well as the intimate acts performed in case anything listed/done might not be something you would want to read. If M/M, Age Play, Interspecies, Insta Love, Erotica, MPreg, or Incest are something you actively avoid, you are probably better off avoiding most of the books I review.

DNF: Something off, couldn’t finish because of it. Maybe me, maybe the book.
1 Star: Just.. Just no, thanks. Do not recommend it. Need mind eraser.
2 Stars: Oh that was something but it was not something for me or the author really fell short on this one.
3 Stars: Decent, enjoyed enough. Hit marks it was supposed to but something turned me off from it.
4 Stars: Really enjoyed it, better than I though it would be. Would recommend.
5 Stars: I can see myself reading this again. Thoroughly enjoyed. Would recommend.

[Wicked River Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a good time with this. This is my first book by this author and it definitely won’t be my last. This was also my first read about a MC with FAAH-OUT and I was intrigued enough to want to read the book and do a little research of my own. It was interesting to see how Penn handled this and the extra steps he took to be more aware of what his body may be telling him in other ways outside of what would be a trigger of pain and how he saw himself.

I enjoyed seeing Penn and Gideon come together. Their relationship was fun, honest and healing for them both. They were just what the other needed. I liked the family dynamic and how clear it was that they were important to one another and seeing them welcome Penn as they did was sweet.

🧡ARC REVIEW🖤

☑️ Trigger Warnings

[Brit ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, I’m so obsessed with Penn!!! He is an amazing character. Him and Gideon together were absolutely perfect. He just took what he wanted and went for it especially with his relationship with Gideon. I loved that the issues in the book were more outside the relationship.

I honestly wish it was longer because I could read about Penn, Gideon, and the twins forever. Penn just fits right in with the whole family.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really a joyride for me! Very fast-paced and insta-lovey/lusty, but Penn and Gideon really stole the show. I was fascinated that we had a protagonist who couldn't feel pain and fear, so really liked that aspect. Especially regarding the sex scenes (which obviously I enjoyed very much 🤭).

This was my first book of this author and I might continue reading her books, since I loved this 😍

[Catarina Águas · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

I adored this book so much, it was so good.
I loved Penn, just a sweet soul that was basically unique in this world. He deserved a family and everything good in his life. He just wanted to belong somewhere even when he ran from place to place.
Gideon was a family man, touch his family and you will not see the end of the day. He wanted Penn from the moment he saw him. No one was allowed to touch him and live. We just love a possessive man that just wants who he wants.
Loved the family dynamic, the kids were so cute and brave and the "mafia" aspect was so well done.
They were an amazing couple that fitted so well together

[CharlotteAtena · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be honest, I feel like I went into this book blindly even though I signed up for the arc, read the blurb and the tropes... and oh, my Lord, I am so happy I forgot all that. To be honest, this book was such a big surprise. This also being my first book by this author I didn't have expectations, I had nothing to compare it to, but it turned out to be one hell of an amazing read.

Be my monster is the story of Gideon and Pennsylvania, and the way these two meet is definitely unusual, just like the two of them.

The story of Pennsylvania is heartbreaking really, always on the run, always alone, until he barges into this family who waits for him with open arms. I dare to say he was always moving, always running because he was looking for them. Our boy is just someone who has so much to offer and no one to offer it too, but thank God for Gideon and his family... now he can rest. Now he can love and be loved. He deserves it more than anyone in the whole world.

Gideon is a sweetheart. He is a monster, dangerous, powerful, but with Penn he is always soft and caring. He is the one our Penn boy can rely on, and he also needed Pennsylvania in his life to heal all those wounds.

These two are the perfect pair, but the road to get their HEA is hard, dangerous, and the furthest away from easy.

Their love story is beautiful, and while there is some spice, the spice is not that much in this book, and in a way I am glad. This way we get to focus more on the plot, the found family, the family in general. Oh, and yeah, this book has a plot and it is good. You won't miss the spice with how fast paced this book is.

Ah, I am so happy I got to read it and it is definitely in my top fav reads of February.

[RavenGodess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Arc in return for my honest review.

Penn has always considered himself a monster. Because of a genetic mutation that prevents him from feeling or expressing pain, he’s lived his life constantly on the move—never settling, never letting anyone get close. He prefers to stay hidden and unseen… until the night he risks everything to save children from a fire. What should have been an anonymous act of bravery turns his world upside down and pulls him directly into danger.

Gideon is the kind of man who protects what’s his—fiercely and without hesitation. With enemies closing in on his family and now targeting Penn, Gideon steps in, determined to keep them safe. He’s intense, commanding, and utterly devoted. Watching him slowly wear down Penn’s walls—with the unexpected help of his children—was one of my favorite parts of the story. Penn may not feel pain, but he feels Gideon, and that emotional awakening is powerful.

The love that grows between Gideon and Penn is strong, protective, and beautifully layered. Gideon brings Penn into his family and, for the first time, Penn is truly seen—not as a monster, but as a man worthy of love. That emotional shift is what makes this story so impactful.

And that line — "I'm going to make him pay, baby. I'll be the monster I promised to be. Just hold on, you fight." — perfectly captures the fierce devotion and “touch him and die” energy that runs through this book. It’s protective, intense, and everything you want in a mafia romance.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced read with solid suspense, emotional depth, and those strong protective vibes, Be My Monster absolutely delivers. It’s gripping, heartfelt, and impossible to put down.

*MM Romance Suspense
*MM Mafia Romance
*Widower with Twins
*Touch him and die
*MC who feels no pain or fear
*Found Family
*Love at First Sight

[ShelfLife · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

This was just okay. It sounded like a promising story, but fell flat. And there are a lot of errors. Mainly comma issues, but also some missing words. Grammatically, it’s actually written pretty well.

There’s no depth to this story: the plot, the characters, the world. Everything is shallow and one-dimensional. I didn’t feel much while reading this book. I think the most emotion came from scenes with the kids, especially Owen, and Tenny.

Penn and Gideon have zero chemistry, no passion, and the sex they have is uninspired and completely dull, definitely not sexy at all. There are these big declarations from them towards the end, and I just felt…nothing, because the author didn’t create characters I could connect with in any way. There is a lot of telling over showing in the writing style, which I think is a huge factor in the lack of depth and development overall.

Penn can’t feel pain or fear. I was looking forward to reading about a character like that. But the author made him be a complete dud. He emits some humor every now and then, but that’s about it. Towards the end, I warmed to him a bit, but it was too late at that point. So he can’t feel fear, but where’s his excitement, joy, happiness, passion, desire, anger, humor, etc? None of these emotions come off the page from him. We may be told he feels a certain way, but the dialogue and the descriptions don’t portray/show it.

Gideon isn’t much better, but, if anything, his involvement with the darker side of his life and the action he’s part of, make him feel more developed. However, his dialogue is still flat throughout the book, especially his interactions with Penn. Nothing they did together said “love” to me, and their sexy times were awkward and over super fast.

Everything was just surface level, and I think the author missed an opportunity to really dig deeper into this rare mutation and create complex, interesting, and well-developed characters.

The plot is also just kind of there. It’s not good and it’s not terrible. Just not intriguing. I’m honestly shocked I didn’t DNF this book, tbh. Oh well, they can’t all be winners.

[Cazlovesbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Penn was abandoned as a child, branded a “monster” because a rare genetic condition left him unable to feel pain or fear. After losing the only woman who ever loved him, he’s alone and untethered.

When he runs into a burning house to save a family, he catches the attention of Gideon — a powerful man who seems to have influence over the entire town. Gideon offers Penn protection and a place to stay.

But his interest feels like more than gratitude… and Penn starts to wonder what Gideon truly wants from him.

This was such a great read. The hero just wants to stay under the radar, but once he catches Gideon’s attention, there’s no going back — and Gideon is very much the “I’ll protect you at all costs” type.

It’s definitely spicy, with plenty of tension and chemistry, and I loved the dynamic between them. As an MM romance, it really delivers — and at just 231 pages, it’s a quick, addictive read.

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Be My Monster
Davidson King

Penn & Gideon 

This was a quick fun read
Mobster vs Lone Wolf vibes

Penn being born with a rare gene that causes him to feel no pain or fear is was puts him into the path of Gideon 

Saving Gideons family has brought unwanted attention upon Penn

These two were sweet. Penn has lived a hard life. My heart ached for him. 

This story has a lot of action and plot but also a sweet found family. 

These two were so hott. So protective of each other. 

I love how Penn gets the family he always deserved.  

Quick exciting swoony spicy read. 

So thankful for this arc

[Showarst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Be My Monster by Davidson King was a great read. Pennsylvania had a hard childhood. His parents didn’t want him and so Tenny, short for Tennessee, took him in. I loved the flashbacks that we had of how much she loved him. I know Penn felt so unlovable, but it was clear that he was such an amazing man. When he rescues Gideon’s children, he soon finds another family to love. Penn was so caring and just wanted to live his life in peace. There were a few times Gideon pushed my buttons, but he was willing to apologize and admit his mistakes. Another enjoyable story from this author.

I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.

[Jaclyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

a sweet and exciting book

[Ann · Rating 1 out of 5]

How to say this... It was boring, and a copy past of snow, kyle, levity's (and a few more) story for me.

And why is the bottom always the "special" one? Also, it would have been a nice change of pace if Gideon were the top from the bottom, or the bottom period.

Is a cliche, mafia boss (dominating role), the guy to save, that ends up being the "hero".

[Fay · Rating 3 out of 5]

I tried really hard

Okay so I do understand the author's dedication in research and time in making this, and I do like the characters but it feels so... fake. The immediate attraction, the immediate fight and the immediate forgiveness. Everything just feels like it was written in phases and slapped together. It doesnt feel smooth, realistic or real to me. The character's emotions are superficial, they themselves feel superficial. I tried to like it but I just cant. But a quick read would be good.

[Tris · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’m a hard reviewer

Whilst the premise of this book was fascinating and totally up my alley, the writing style by King once again has let me down. I have tried King’s previous books and they have a similar theme with me - they all sound amazing but the writing could never live up to the blurb.

Gideon and Penn as individuals were totally hot but they weren’t written to make me feel like they were a couple I was rooting for in the story. It’s was disconnecting and jarring.

[Susanne Christensen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise of the book had so much potential, but it didn’t pull through.

[Daniela Tavares · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐.25/6.
🌶🌶.5/5.

This was a very interesting story or should I say character.
Penn has a very very rare gene mutation, (FAAH/OUT), which means that he cannot feel any pain whatsoever. I was very intrigued by this!
This is also more mafia-adjacent than mafia but the dark part is in it so be aware.

I loved Penn. He was given away by his own parents because he was different from other kids and his parents basically didn't know what to do with him when he was very young so that made him very reserved and unattached from other people until a Lady named Tennessee comes along and takes him under her wing. I loved that lady too! She was there for Penn in his more important years of his life and she shaped him to be the type of person he is when he meets Gideon.

Gideon enters the chat because "batman" saved his 2 kids and nephew and since then, he has been searching everywhere for this person to thank him except his enemy is also after the same person.
I very much liked everything leading to it especially the first time these two met.
I loved how Owen & Olivia, Gideon's kids, are immediately in love with Penn.
I also loved that Gid showed his other side by the end of it and I enjoyed it because what they did to Penn was NOT it. I was actually very happy Penn couldn't feel a thing.

I liked where the story went but i wish it had something more.
I was a bit thrown off by the fact that Gid and Penn got acquainted with their private parts the second time they met and it came kind of out of nowhere. I didn't feel enough s*xual tension there for it to happen right away so I wish they could have had another encounter to show that there was tension there before spice happens.
Other than that tho, I have no complaints. I loved all the characters in this and I had a really lovely time. You guys should know by now that i read everything this lady writes and I liked them all, I just like some more than others but that doesn't take away the fact that every single time I read one of her stories, i just feel good. My time is not wasted, some faith is restored in humanity if you can even believe it and they all are happy, sweet stories which in turn makes me happy as well.

* I read an arc of this book."

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, that was an eventful story!

Pennsylvania/Penn thinks he’s a monster, he was born with a condition, he can’t feel pain or fear. His parents labeled him as a monster and got rid of him. Thank goodness there was a wonderful lady who took him in and fought for him. After she died Penn took his car and traveled from place to place. He only wants peace and quiet.
Ha! Little did he know his world would be turned upside down.

One day he saw a house on fire, he stepped in and saved three children, and after that, he vanished.
His wounds will heal faster than someone else’s, and he can return to his peace.

Gideon is a widower with two kids, he lives with his brother and family. He calls himself the head of a syndicate. He rules the city, but someone is causing trouble, and he knows who.
After they’d try to kill his family by setting his house on fire, he’s outraged, he’ll end his enemy.
But first, he needs to find the saviour of his family. It seems his enemy is also looking for him, and not with good intentions.

Gideon found him and wants to keep him safe, even wants to keep him close. He’s instantly attracted to Penn. Penn feels the same but can’t stay and doesn’t need protection.
Gideon is hard-headed and insists Penn stays; it's safer!

One thing I can say, the enemy is everywhere, and insistent af!!
What follows is amazing, and makes this story not only a romance but an exciting rollercoaster of events. There’s blood, there’s hurt, there’s danger, but in between there are also sweet and smexy moments.

I love the pace and content of this story, and the characters were nicely layered. There’s no unnecessary stretching of scenes. At times I was racing through the pages because it was so thrilling, the danger, the excitement, I wanted to know what happened next, and was even anxious about it.

I loved the possessiveness, the protectiveness, the ‘touch him and die’ vibe. I love the family moments, I shuddered at the bloody parts.
Penn was the quiet centre in the middle of the storm, while Gideon was the storm, the ruthless killer.
Overall, it was an intriguing, and super entertaining story!.




I received an arc

[Stephanie Chapin · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review of Be My Monster by Davidson King. This was a 5 star read for me I absolutely loved it. I was hooked from the first page and didn’t want to put it down. I really enjoyed the pacing and flow of this book along with all the action and suspense. This is Pennsylvania and Gideon’s story. I love their relationship and I think the spice level in this book is perfect. I love Penn and how complex of a character he is. I love how protective Gideon is of his family and Penn and how he will kill anyone who hurts them. I love Gideons kids they are so cute I wish there was more scenes with them. This is a MM dark romantic suspense, slow burn, spicy, found family, forced proximity, mmc who doesn’t feel pain or fear, widower single dad, touch him and die, mafia romance. Pennsylvania aka Penn is 28 he was born without the ability to feel pain or fear and because of this his parents gave him up for adoption when he was 5. He has felt like a freak and a monster is whole life and he has never felt like he belonged anywhere except with Tenny the woman who raised him. He promised her he would put down roots and find love and a family but he is constantly running and never stays in one place to long. Gideon is a widowed single dad of his 5 year old twins Olivia and Owen. His wife dies unexpectedly 2 years ago. He is the boss of a crime organization. Penn is on his way to work in the new town he’s staying in when he sees a house fire with children inside he immediately helps and saves the kids but then leaves he doesn’t like attention being on him. The kids he ended up saving are Gideon’s and because of this he unknowingly becomes involved in a crime war. To keep Penn safe Gideon has him come stay with him and his family. Gideon is instantly attracted to Penn and the more he’s around him the more his feelings grow. Penn usually runs from drama but for the first time he wants to stay and actually put down roots with Gideon and his family. I love all the danger and action in this book interwoven with romance. I highly recommend this book.

 

[Cassandra Booth · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Be My Monster by Davidson King completely blindsided me... in the best way possible.

I technically went into this knowing what it was about… and yet it still felt like a surprise. And I’m so glad for that, because the emotional impact hit harder.

Pennsylvania (Penn) is born with the rare FAAH-OUT gene mutation, meaning he cannot feel pain or fear. Because of this, his parents gave him up when he was a child 💔 He grows up believing he is different, something to be handled, managed, hidden.

So when he runs into a burning building to save two children and a nephew without hesitation, it isn’t heroism to him. It’s instinct. 🚒

Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), those children belong to Gideon, a widowed single father and head of a crime organization, and now both Gideon and his enemies are looking for the mysterious “Batman” who saved them.

Penn’s story is heartbreaking. He is constantly running, never staying long enough to belong anywhere. He believes he is a monster. He expects rejection. What he doesn’t expect is Gideon’s family welcoming him with open arms 🤍

The found family element absolutely made this book for me. The twins immediately attaching to Penn, especially Owen opening up to him, added so much warmth and heart 🥺

Gideon is powerful, strategic, and ruthless when it comes to protecting his family. But with Penn, he is steady and soft. Their attraction develops quickly, but it feels intentional rather than chaotic. When they know, they know.

The spice is present 🌶️ but not overwhelming, which worked in the story’s favor. The focus remains on the suspense, the danger, and Penn’s emotional journey toward finally putting down roots.

Is the road to their HEA easy? Absolutely not. It’s dangerous, violent, and tense ⚔️ But watching Penn choose to stay instead of run, watching Gideon choose him every single time, is what makes this story unforgettable.

I binged this in one sitting and it’s easily one of my favorite reads of the month. 💫

[Ashley Carrillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pennsylvania has always believed that he was a monster and was always picked on and looked at as weird because he doesn't feel pain or fear and has always felt like he never belonged anywhere more so when his parents give him up for adoption at five years old. Thankfully, Tenny came into his life and made him feel accepted, understood and loved. She opened up her home and her life and gave him a family. But when she passes when Penn is an adult he finds himself moving from town to town keeping his head down and not putting down roots or getting close to anyone. That changes one day when he rescues three children from a burning house and from there his life changes forever. Now he has the leader of a crime syndicate/the widow of twins, which he happened to save, determined to find the man who saved his children and nephew's lives. He also ends up in the middle of a war he doesn’t want any part of and plans to leave again but with the danger still out there along with Gideon's insistence and the attraction they both feel for each other and the adoration he feels for Gideon's kids and his family he decides to stay put for awhile. He never expected to be so drawn to and gone for the man who who doesn't see him as a monster and instead wants to be his monster. Gideon wants to protect Penn as he's never felt rhis way for anyone besides his late wife. But he also sees Penn as and equal and is protective but also knows Penn will also fight alongside him and protect his children and family as he's done multiple times and trusts him with his life. There's action, found family, acceptance, spice, love and the unexpected sweetness that is Penn and Gideon together. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and flew through it. I'm looking foward to picking up another Davidson King book as soon as I can.

[Amanda Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had such a great time with this book and completely devoured it. Once I started, I genuinely didn’t want to put it down.

Penn was such an interesting and beautifully layered character. I was especially intrigued by the inclusion of FAAH-OUT. It added a unique dimension to the story, and I appreciated how it was handled through Penn’s perspective, the awareness he had to develop, the extra steps he took to interpret what his body was telling him beyond typical pain triggers, and the way it influenced how he saw himself. It felt thoughtful and added real depth to his internal struggles.

The idea that Penn truly believed he was a “monster,” that he could never quite put down roots or belong anywhere, broke my heart. Beneath his snarky humor was such a sweet, vulnerable soul who just wanted somewhere to stay, somewhere to be wanted. He deserved a family and every good thing life could give him.

Gideon was the perfect counterpart. A true family man, fiercely protective and completely devoted to the people he loves. From the moment he saw Penn, he knew what he wanted. His possessiveness worked so well here because it came from a place of certainty and protectiveness rather than control. He saw Penn clearly and didn’t hesitate.

Their relationship felt honest, fun, and healing for both of them. They balanced each other beautifully. I loved the family dynamic — it was so clear how important they all were to one another — and seeing Penn be welcomed in was incredibly sweet. The twins were adorable and brave, and the mafia element was woven in well without overshadowing the emotional core of the story.

The pacing was fast with short chapters, which made it an easy, immersive read. I flew through it and honestly could have kept reading about these two without ever getting bored.

Penn and Gideon were exactly what each other needed. I adored this book.

[Jessie Coughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book and honestly didn’t expect it to hit me as hard as it did. Penn is such a beautiful, unique soul in a world that never quite knew what to do with him, and his deep longing to belong somewhere, to finally stop running, completely broke my heart. Learning about his rare gene mutation and watching him run straight into danger without hesitation, save children, then quietly walk away like it’s nothing says everything about who he is. He deserves every good thing, especially a family that sees him and keeps him. Gideon is the perfect counterbalance, fiercely loyal, unapologetically protective, and the kind of man who will end anyone who threatens his family without blinking. From the moment he sees Penn, that’s it, he’s his, and I loved how certain he was, no doubt, no games, no drawn-out miscommunication. Their connection is immediate, grounded, and deeply emotional, and the fact that it’s sudden and unquestioned made it feel even more powerful. The family dynamic was such a standout, the kids were brave and adorable, and Penn’s protectiveness over them melted me completely. His hospital flashbacks were raw and emotional, especially with Tenny’s presence urging him to stop running and finally put down roots. The mafia elements and action were gripping, adding real stakes without overpowering the heart of the story, and Gideon being both a terrifying man and a quiet, lovesick protector was perfection. The spice is there but never overshadows the emotional journey, which I loved because this story is really about healing, belonging, and learning that you’re not a monster just because you’re different. This couple fit together so naturally, and by the end I was fully emotional and completely in love with them.

[Kata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whenever I read a book by an author who’s new to me, I’m always a little nervous about what I’m going to get. I’ve made some bad choices before, but most of the time that’s not the case, and I’m usually really happy in the end.

And this time was no different, because @davidsonkingauthor wrote such an incredibly good book that I honestly don’t even have the words for it.

Let me start with Penn’s story—it’s heartbreaking. I mean, what kind of parent does that? Seriously, I don’t understand. But I was so grateful that Tennessee was there for him, that she raised and supported him.

And then there’s Gideon—the widower raising his twins on his own (with occasional help from his brother and sister-in-law). He’s incredibly organized, decisive, and a bit controlling, but he’s not afraid to take whatever steps are necessary to keep his family safe.

I absolutely loved that their mutual attraction developed relatively early on. And oh my God, what a relief it was that three-quarters of the book wasn’t about them getting it on in six different positions on every possible surface. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against smut—but I feel like it wouldn’t have fit this book.
The action and the fights with Lorcan were really good, but I wouldn’t focus too much on that in this review, because he interested me the least 😅
What I really want to highlight—because it filled my heart with so much love—is not just how accepting Gideon’s whole family was toward Penn, but especially the twins, and Owen in particular. He didn’t talk much in general, but he opened up to Penn and spoke to him. And that was just so beautiful.

I’m absolutely sure I’ll read more from this author in the future, because she delivered such an amazing story for us, and I encourage everyone to read it.

[Katriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You’re stuck with us now, Pennsylvania.”

"There's nowhere else I'd rather be."


I absolutely adore Penn! I just wanted to give him a hug, why would people treat him like a monster for not being able to feel pain? They are the monsters, not him. When he arrived in Northchester he thought he was staying in a quiet town, but that thought quickly changed when he saved a very powerful man's family from a house fire. That moment changed his and Gideon's life forever. And if you read this story yourself, you'll see exactly how they ended up together.

I thought this story was great, the dialogue was well written and detailed, we knew what was happening as it was happening, which I enjoyed. The plot was well written, there was some angst throughout the story but not a ton for those who might be wondering. This book does lean more on the darker side due to the mafia-esque-ness of it all, there are mentioms of shootouts, blood, torture, and violence, but it isn't overtly dark. There's a lot of softer moments that happen between these characters and really sweet scenes that convey the found family that waa created with Penn.

The MC's were great, but I want to talk about the incredible side characters! Dean, Rita, Owen, Olivia, and Matteo were all absolutely fantastic and brought such an interesting dynamic to this story. I love all of them so much and I'm so happy they all ended up together. Also, Owen is absolutely precious, I absolutely adore how he began to bond with Penny and how Penny has now become Owen's person.

All in all, a fantastic book!!

~~I received an early copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.~~

[Tara Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

MY OPINION: For me, this wasn’t as dark as some ‘dark romances’; it lacked some of the detail when it came to the actual torture. At least that was how it felt to me. This is a story of a man who stumbles his way into a mafia-type family by doing a good deed.

Penn didn’t want to settle anywhere; he was always on the run because it was easier that way. He never expected to get involved in a situation where he was the pawn in a territory war. Two powerful men want him. One needs him to be happy, the other wants to destroy him as revenge. Penn wants to be away from the drama and the battle, but he finds that he is forced to be safe, which means being around the very powerful Gideon.

These two men fall into each other in an insta-lust situation. A mafia boss with kids and a family not involved in his business makes for a sweet love story. Together, they find comfort. Both of them believe they are monsters in different ways. Yet they accept each other as is. Finding comfort with each other, love grows strong and powerful.

Finding family for Penn is something wonderful and unexpected. Finding love again for the widower is a powerful motivator. Together, they make a family, and it’s safe to say it’s non-traditional but perfect for them.

A violent, damaged love story with two great men. It’s an easy read, flowing quickly, and it drew me in wanting to see what happened next. I like both MCs very much. There is some spice that is open door, but it fits within the story, and there are only a couple of scenes. I hold to it being mafia/dark lite if that’s a thing. But it is a great love story.

[Mags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

Be My Monster is my first introduction to author Davidson King. But OMG, based on this story, it won't be my last. As It was such a wild ride, with moments that made me sob and sigh, keeping me reading long into the night.

As Penn has a heartbreaking backstory. Thanks to a rare genetic condition, he can't feel pain or fear, leaving him feeling like a freak and most people fearing him, including his own parents, who cruelly give him up for adoption when he's just five years old.

This leaves Penn, as an adult, moving from town to town, never really settling or putting down roots.

But everything changes when he is on his way to work. Penn sees a house on fire and a woman calling for help, and he jumps into action, saving the three children inside before disappearing into the night.

What he doesn't know is that two of the three children he saved belong to mob boss Gideon, and by saving them, Penn has unwittingly put himself in the middle of a war.

And now, not only is Gideon searching for the hero he owes everything to, but so is the guy behind the fire.

But Penn wants to be left alone and decides to leave town. Only things don't quite go to plan, and he soon finds himself rescued and cared for by Gideon, who sees something in Penn that no one has before and will go to any lengths to keep him safe, not just because he owes him everything.

And with the perfect blend of danger, suspense, spice, emotion and great characters, Be My Monster was a deliciously enthralling, fast-paced read that I'd happily recommend to all.

My thanks to TAA and Davidson King for the opportunity to read Be My Monster. 😊 All thoughts expressed are my own.