Queen B’s Decree: This anthology contained stories from eight different authors. Some of the stories were sneak peeks or beginnings, while others were novellas and completed. I had a wide variety of reactions and opinions, so I think it’s best if I detail my thoughts for each story separately.
The Glass Cage by Anna Edwards: Just not for me. I wasn’t that interested in the plot. I had many questions: Why her family? Would any virgin work? Were shifters and magic “out” and widespread? Anyway, I found that it moved very fast and the “romance” was not believable for me.
Bearskin by Brianna Hale: YES! A fated mate! Just what I needed. This novella was short but the pace was well written and the characters were fleshed out just enough to be enticing. I can’t resist a snuggly bear shifter.
The Blood Rose by Claire Marta: This one may have well been my favorite. Two characters that have an instant connection, yet the dark side of death and magic was present and frightening. Well written and intriguing, I can’t wait for more.
Red & The Wolf by Dani René: A little dark for my taste. I am usually all for the “parents sold their daughter to the antihero” but this antihero didn’t have any redeeming qualities. More to come regarding these characters, so there is potential.
The Lords of Sutherland by Murphy Wallace: Taboo to the extreme? A little too rapey for me.
Snow’s Surrender by Lylah James: A stepfather that comes into his stepdaughter’s room at night and does some dark and devilishly pleasurable things to her, with a twist I didn’t see coming. Quick ending but definitely enjoyable.
The Girl With No Hands: ok but wut? Thought this was a ROMANCE anthology? Why would you make me read about child rape?
His Diamond by Abby Gale: Another “parents sold their daughter to the antihero,” but this time I fell for Luca. He starts off acting heartless but it soon becomes clear that he can’t stop himself from being sucked into her light. Ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see what the author does to redeem him.
Book: Slay Belles & Mayhem Anthology
Series: standalone
Genre: Dark
Hotness: medium-hot
Plot Devices/Tropes: dark fairy tale adaptations