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Leafshire Cove Monsters #1
When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle
A shire-esque party forces a straight-laced human weaver and a brooding gargoyle guard together in the most delightfully tension-filled ways.
I have one talent, and it’s not relationships. It’s weaving. But I have one chance to keep my cozy little life in the magical Leafshire Cove and it’s going to require a partner.
I swore off romance—my last relationship was a humiliating disaster. But to enter the mayor’s tapestry contest, and win the contract attached, I need a date, thanks to a ridiculous ancient faerie spell requiring attendants to bring a potential partner.
When my frenemy suggests the new watchtower guard, a growly gargoyle named Romulus who never speaks and hides inside a massive cloak, I think she’s finally lost her mind. But said frenemy refuses to back down, and suddenly, the gargoyle and I are forced into a temporary match.
Romulus is employed by the mayor so he has no choice but to go. Because of a past issue with his stone magic, he’s dead set on remaining single, so there shouldn’t be a problem.
Until we share the wrong pot of tea…
Magic and cozy mayhem combine in this spicy standalone fantasy romance. All the books in the Leafshire Cove series are short and sweet, with a happily ever after for their human/monster couples.
"When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle is everything I want in a cozy fantasy romance. Every page is like a warm mug of cider but with the most delicious serving of spice. This is the kind of book to savor and soothe your soul with!"
~Tessonja Odette author of A Rivalry of Hearts
Tropes/elements in/of this
◆low stakes
◆instalove
◆forced proximity
◆he falls first
◆protective MMC
◆magical pet
◆cozy medieval-esque town
◆fantasy feast
◆he’s too dangerous
◆monster romance
◆friends to lovers to friends to lovers
◆MMC’s dark past
◆love potion
I have one talent, and it’s not relationships. It’s weaving. But I have one chance to keep my cozy little life in the magical Leafshire Cove and it’s going to require a partner.
I swore off romance—my last relationship was a humiliating disaster. But to enter the mayor’s tapestry contest, and win the contract attached, I need a date, thanks to a ridiculous ancient faerie spell requiring attendants to bring a potential partner.
When my frenemy suggests the new watchtower guard, a growly gargoyle named Romulus who never speaks and hides inside a massive cloak, I think she’s finally lost her mind. But said frenemy refuses to back down, and suddenly, the gargoyle and I are forced into a temporary match.
Romulus is employed by the mayor so he has no choice but to go. Because of a past issue with his stone magic, he’s dead set on remaining single, so there shouldn’t be a problem.
Until we share the wrong pot of tea…
Magic and cozy mayhem combine in this spicy standalone fantasy romance. All the books in the Leafshire Cove series are short and sweet, with a happily ever after for their human/monster couples.
"When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle is everything I want in a cozy fantasy romance. Every page is like a warm mug of cider but with the most delicious serving of spice. This is the kind of book to savor and soothe your soul with!"
~Tessonja Odette author of A Rivalry of Hearts
Tropes/elements in/of this
◆low stakes
◆instalove
◆forced proximity
◆he falls first
◆protective MMC
◆magical pet
◆cozy medieval-esque town
◆fantasy feast
◆he’s too dangerous
◆monster romance
◆friends to lovers to friends to lovers
◆MMC’s dark past
◆love potion
232 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2025
410 people are currently reading
1259 people want to read
About the author
Lila Appleton
6 books49 followersLila Appleton lives in a small Tennessee town where she does yoga with her cats and drinks more tea than anyone should be capable of consuming. You can also find her on IG @authorlilaappleton and on the clock app @lilaappleton. The Leafshire Cove series are all standalone cozy monster fantasy romance novels that are short, sweet, and spicy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
January 24, 2025
Short. Sweet. Spicy 🩵🧵🩶 cozy monster romantasy with small town vibes but one HUGE gargoyle!
Laini is a struggling tapestry artist smitten by the new tower bell guard aka shy Romulus. They have both forsaken love after being hurt but it doesn’t take them long to spark up their own romance ✨ in order to impress the Mayor they have to attend the town’s dance together as a date!
🧵 he falls first but doesn’t think he’s good enough
🧵 insta love
🧵 adorable fantasy creatures, love potions & magical storms!
🧵 he is BUILT DIFFERENT *wink wink*
🧵 cozy small town
This story was such a COZY romance!! Laini & Rom were complete introverts but loved spending time with each other. They are adorably smitten until they get slipped the love potion and he goes down on her with his forked tongue 👅 super cozy but also monster spicy!
I did feel like some of the parts were slightly cringy or perhaps just more time was needed on the side plots. The fantasy world in this one is adorably rich and I wanted to know EVERYTHING. I loved getting to know all village folk too… honestly I wish I could move there!
small town vibes
interspecies
beautiful & take charge fmc
he falls first
shy mmc
monster anatomy
ex that won’t go away
fated mates ✨
found family
HEA
Laini is a struggling tapestry artist smitten by the new tower bell guard aka shy Romulus. They have both forsaken love after being hurt but it doesn’t take them long to spark up their own romance ✨ in order to impress the Mayor they have to attend the town’s dance together as a date!
🧵 he falls first but doesn’t think he’s good enough
🧵 insta love
🧵 adorable fantasy creatures, love potions & magical storms!
🧵 he is BUILT DIFFERENT *wink wink*
🧵 cozy small town
This story was such a COZY romance!! Laini & Rom were complete introverts but loved spending time with each other. They are adorably smitten until they get slipped the love potion and he goes down on her with his forked tongue 👅 super cozy but also monster spicy!
I did feel like some of the parts were slightly cringy or perhaps just more time was needed on the side plots. The fantasy world in this one is adorably rich and I wanted to know EVERYTHING. I loved getting to know all village folk too… honestly I wish I could move there!
small town vibes
interspecies
beautiful & take charge fmc
he falls first
shy mmc
monster anatomy
ex that won’t go away
fated mates ✨
found family
HEA
January 15, 2025
And you’re telling me I’m supposed to like regular men after reading stuff like this? No shot.
I’m always down for a good gargoyle romance. There were a couple of errors, a couple places where I had to do some mental gymnastics because the description was a bit lacking, but it was a cute read overall.
I’ll always find it weird when a couple says they’re in love within a week of knowing each other.
I’m always down for a good gargoyle romance. There were a couple of errors, a couple places where I had to do some mental gymnastics because the description was a bit lacking, but it was a cute read overall.
I’ll always find it weird when a couple says they’re in love within a week of knowing each other.
Read
June 29, 2025Per la scienza questo e altro
March 22, 2025
“A small voice in the back of my head whispers that life doesn’t need to be lonely, but I squash it with a frown I feel to my toes”.
Yo ya no engaño a nadie. He elegido esta novela porque tenía una gárgola en la portada y aquellos que me conocen saben que estas criaturas son mi punto débil.
La historia ha estado bien, corta, ligera y sin demasiado drama de por medio. Es una lectura para pasar en momentos de estrés/ ansia.
Me han gustado mucho los personajes, me han parecido ambos bastante entrañables. Él, sobre todo.
Tengo ganas de seguir con la saga.
A por el siguiente.
Yo ya no engaño a nadie. He elegido esta novela porque tenía una gárgola en la portada y aquellos que me conocen saben que estas criaturas son mi punto débil.
La historia ha estado bien, corta, ligera y sin demasiado drama de por medio. Es una lectura para pasar en momentos de estrés/ ansia.
Me han gustado mucho los personajes, me han parecido ambos bastante entrañables. Él, sobre todo.
Tengo ganas de seguir con la saga.
A por el siguiente.
May 23, 2025
Adorable little short story!! Very enjoyable!!
January 2, 2025
In order for her tapestry to be submitted for a contest, Laini needs to attend the Harvest Party with a date. Reclusive gargoyle Romulus has been ordered by the mayor to attend the Harvest Party. Laini and Romulus agree to attend the party together as only friends, but when they share the wrong pot of tea together, they are no longer able to deny their mutual attraction. Can the two work through their apprehension to create a life together?
When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle is a quick, cozy, fantasy romance novella. Unfortunately, its quick pace undermines the story. Laini has been burned by her ex, Leo, leaving her convinced to never open up to anyone ever again. However, exactly what Leo did to her is never explored, and her reluctance towards relationships is dropped almost immediately. Leo shows up frequently to largely make obnoxious comments, and it’s clear that the town does not like him, so it makes little sense that he would be able to do anything so traumatizing for Laini to swear off love forever. It would have been more impactful had her past been further explored to give her feelings greater impact. By comparison, Romulus’s reasons for avoiding romantic entanglements makes more sense, but he also ignores his concerns almost immediately. If the characters ignore their own worries, it destroys any tension or drama in the story, which decreases the general interest in the story.
Overall, this story really needed something more to really create interest in its characters. Laini and Romulus are both cute characters, but they needed something larger to overcome together to really make this story exciting and engaging.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle is a quick, cozy, fantasy romance novella. Unfortunately, its quick pace undermines the story. Laini has been burned by her ex, Leo, leaving her convinced to never open up to anyone ever again. However, exactly what Leo did to her is never explored, and her reluctance towards relationships is dropped almost immediately. Leo shows up frequently to largely make obnoxious comments, and it’s clear that the town does not like him, so it makes little sense that he would be able to do anything so traumatizing for Laini to swear off love forever. It would have been more impactful had her past been further explored to give her feelings greater impact. By comparison, Romulus’s reasons for avoiding romantic entanglements makes more sense, but he also ignores his concerns almost immediately. If the characters ignore their own worries, it destroys any tension or drama in the story, which decreases the general interest in the story.
Overall, this story really needed something more to really create interest in its characters. Laini and Romulus are both cute characters, but they needed something larger to overcome together to really make this story exciting and engaging.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 27, 2024
A delicious monster romance! Short and sweet like the perfect biscuit to go with your tea 😉 This book wastes no time getting into the plot (and the spice 🌶️🌶️) and for such a short read Lila has managed to build the most perfect magical picture of Leafshire Cove. A quick and wholesome read to get you out of that book slump following an 800 page fantasy read! I've given this book a 4/5 stars purely because it just ended far too quickly. But I'm glad that there will be more books to follow!
February 24, 2025
it’s not the worst thing i had ever read, however it was far from falling in the “good” category. i get that it’s supposed to be a short cozy book however i fully believe that even in a short book (150 pages) there can still be room to add to character development and good plot. this? severely lacking.
January 14, 2025
While this was an ARC review, this was a book I would have purchased for myself. It had fantasy, romance, comedy while being cozy, sweet and spicy. If that’s your jam, you will enjoy this book. The main characters-weaver Laini and Romulus the gargoyle were both well written as were most of the secondary characters. The relationship between Laini and Romulus developed organically and thoughtfully.
August 4, 2025
I love a cozy fantasy, but unfortunately, this one was boring to me. I think plots can focus on the more "mundane" aspects of life and still be super interesting, but I think the combination of the writing and the plot was making this feel unengaging for me. At one point, I actually willingly returned to working because I just wasn't invested.
But many of the elements for a good story were there, and I didn't dislike the characters or their romance. However, the writing was not helping me lean into the experience. In particular, I did have to put it down at one point when Romulus, the MMC was like "oh yes there was that one thing about stone gargoyles and mates but hmm can't remember what it is, it probably isn't important" *insert eyeroll here*. And unfortunately, the longer I dragged out reading what is quite a short book, the more frustrated I got at the book and at myself.
#smalltownromance #monsterromance #cozyfantasy #artist #badex
But many of the elements for a good story were there, and I didn't dislike the characters or their romance. However, the writing was not helping me lean into the experience. In particular, I did have to put it down at one point when Romulus, the MMC was like "oh yes there was that one thing about stone gargoyles and mates but hmm can't remember what it is, it probably isn't important" *insert eyeroll here*. And unfortunately, the longer I dragged out reading what is quite a short book, the more frustrated I got at the book and at myself.
#smalltownromance #monsterromance #cozyfantasy #artist #badex
January 4, 2025
You had me at Gargoyles and Shires!!!
This was such a cute debut book by Lila Appleton! I really love monster romances because they are usually super cozy with strong FMCs and protective MMCs; this one was no different!
Appleton did such a great job constructing this small town already. We are introduced, at a good pace I add, to a number of individuals who I cannot wait to read books for! From Kaya the baker to Plum the lead tailor, perhaps even Lila’s sister who is on the other side of the veil, I’m super intrigued to dive into more people’s stories in this town!
I especially loved the dynamic between FMC Laini and her “frenemy” Tully. While I didn’t really think they were much of “frenemies”, more Tully was her loud and blunt friend, the two had a fantastic chemistry. AND TULLY IS MY GIRL! She is a tricky little minx with magic, red hair, and sense of humor that gets her into trouble sometimes 😉 She is seriously my favorite character so far!
The only character who may surpass Tully is Spark! Spark is Laini’s cute little Dragonfox (“a mix of fox and dragon with a fox’s red fur and large, black ears and a dragon’s tiny horns, slitted irises, and scaled nose”). Spark is so freaking cute and sassy! I just love animal sidekicks, especially of the magical kind. I especially loved that Laini rescued him, it seriously melted my heart.
I like that the “bad guy” in the town is Laini’s ex-boyfriend (and total shit) Leo. He’s more of the annoying cockroach kind of bad guy, at least for now, which is nice in the small town. I’m sure he’ll continue to be a nuisance but to keep it cozy it won’t get too evil.
I loved the idea of the mate markings and the fact that the further Laini and Rom got from one another, the more they physically hurt. I don’t think I’ve read any books with this concept, and I quite enjoyed it!
This is the second gargoyle book I’ve read, and I think I’m starting to fall for them…I don’t foresee them surpassing my ultimate love, minotaurs, but good news on that front! Appleton’s next book in the series is about Laini’s frenemy and town witch Tully and A FREAKING MINOTAUR!!! I seriously can’t wait for these two to clash and smash!
Thank you to Lila Appleton for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
This was such a cute debut book by Lila Appleton! I really love monster romances because they are usually super cozy with strong FMCs and protective MMCs; this one was no different!
Appleton did such a great job constructing this small town already. We are introduced, at a good pace I add, to a number of individuals who I cannot wait to read books for! From Kaya the baker to Plum the lead tailor, perhaps even Lila’s sister who is on the other side of the veil, I’m super intrigued to dive into more people’s stories in this town!
I especially loved the dynamic between FMC Laini and her “frenemy” Tully. While I didn’t really think they were much of “frenemies”, more Tully was her loud and blunt friend, the two had a fantastic chemistry. AND TULLY IS MY GIRL! She is a tricky little minx with magic, red hair, and sense of humor that gets her into trouble sometimes 😉 She is seriously my favorite character so far!
The only character who may surpass Tully is Spark! Spark is Laini’s cute little Dragonfox (“a mix of fox and dragon with a fox’s red fur and large, black ears and a dragon’s tiny horns, slitted irises, and scaled nose”). Spark is so freaking cute and sassy! I just love animal sidekicks, especially of the magical kind. I especially loved that Laini rescued him, it seriously melted my heart.
I like that the “bad guy” in the town is Laini’s ex-boyfriend (and total shit) Leo. He’s more of the annoying cockroach kind of bad guy, at least for now, which is nice in the small town. I’m sure he’ll continue to be a nuisance but to keep it cozy it won’t get too evil.
I loved the idea of the mate markings and the fact that the further Laini and Rom got from one another, the more they physically hurt. I don’t think I’ve read any books with this concept, and I quite enjoyed it!
This is the second gargoyle book I’ve read, and I think I’m starting to fall for them…I don’t foresee them surpassing my ultimate love, minotaurs, but good news on that front! Appleton’s next book in the series is about Laini’s frenemy and town witch Tully and A FREAKING MINOTAUR!!! I seriously can’t wait for these two to clash and smash!
Thank you to Lila Appleton for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
January 14, 2025
3.5 stars
I’m struggling here.
The good: I adore Laini and Rom is everything you could want in a cinnamon roll MMC. I loved how careful and attentive they were to each other, how they buffered and protected each other. Some of the side characters were delightful. I loved the premise of the gathering, a celebration where everyone brings an intended and food to share. So cute.
The not so good: I’ll preface this by saying I read dark romance and other things, so my issue here is presentation. This was presented as a low stakes, cozy fantasy and insta-love trope. And that totally came through even in the first pages. So for me, there is absolutely zero reason for Tully’s actions and realistically her whole arc. The blurb painting her as a ‘frenemy’ doesn’t begin to cover it. It was atrocious, especially balanced against two MCs that were so emotionally in tune and careful with each other. Couple that with a complete non apology, and her thoughts in the epilogue? This destroyed my flow in the story a third of the way in and I never recovered. Since the next book is her story? I won’t be visiting Leafshire Cove again.
I received a review copy of the book through BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m struggling here.
The good: I adore Laini and Rom is everything you could want in a cinnamon roll MMC. I loved how careful and attentive they were to each other, how they buffered and protected each other. Some of the side characters were delightful. I loved the premise of the gathering, a celebration where everyone brings an intended and food to share. So cute.
The not so good: I’ll preface this by saying I read dark romance and other things, so my issue here is presentation. This was presented as a low stakes, cozy fantasy and insta-love trope. And that totally came through even in the first pages. So for me, there is absolutely zero reason for Tully’s actions and realistically her whole arc. The blurb painting her as a ‘frenemy’ doesn’t begin to cover it. It was atrocious, especially balanced against two MCs that were so emotionally in tune and careful with each other. Couple that with a complete non apology, and her thoughts in the epilogue? This destroyed my flow in the story a third of the way in and I never recovered. Since the next book is her story? I won’t be visiting Leafshire Cove again.
I received a review copy of the book through BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 27, 2024
Such a cozy read!
This kinda gave me The Pumpkin Spice Cafe vibes with a fantasy twist. Immediately love the characters, except the one that deserves a throat punch (you'll have to read to find out), and the world building is fantastic! Sometimes I struggle to picture what it would look like but this was super easy. I could imagine the tower with its cozy kitchen and the market square with the cute little carts and humans and monsters selling their goods and living like it didn't matter whether you were a witch or an orc. The spice level was nice too. Just the right amount for you to imagine without being mega horny and over the top (was just what I needed after reading a really smutty book). I would love more of When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle book but I guess I'll have to wait till the next monster encounter.... Hopefully I won't have to wait long
This kinda gave me The Pumpkin Spice Cafe vibes with a fantasy twist. Immediately love the characters, except the one that deserves a throat punch (you'll have to read to find out), and the world building is fantastic! Sometimes I struggle to picture what it would look like but this was super easy. I could imagine the tower with its cozy kitchen and the market square with the cute little carts and humans and monsters selling their goods and living like it didn't matter whether you were a witch or an orc. The spice level was nice too. Just the right amount for you to imagine without being mega horny and over the top (was just what I needed after reading a really smutty book). I would love more of When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle book but I guess I'll have to wait till the next monster encounter.... Hopefully I won't have to wait long
December 31, 2024
☕️✨🫖 ARC Review 🫖✨☕️
~ When The Weaver Met The Gargoyle ~
By Lila Appleton
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️1/2
When The Weaver Met The Gargoyle is the perfect mixture of cozy fantasy, romance, friendship and a steamy tea misadventures 😉
Even though this is a quick read @authorlilaappleton has done an excellent job of weaving a engaging story and plot with a beautiful medieval like setting!
I wish I could visit Leafshire Cove so badly.
I highly recommend reading this book if you love studio Ghibli vibes, dashing gargoyle hero with a troubled past and kind and sweet heroine you will ever met.
So get cozy and read this book with your favourite cup of tea ☕️
I can not wait till the next book❤️🔥
‼️ Release January 13th ‼️
~ When The Weaver Met The Gargoyle ~
By Lila Appleton
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️1/2
When The Weaver Met The Gargoyle is the perfect mixture of cozy fantasy, romance, friendship and a steamy tea misadventures 😉
Even though this is a quick read @authorlilaappleton has done an excellent job of weaving a engaging story and plot with a beautiful medieval like setting!
I wish I could visit Leafshire Cove so badly.
I highly recommend reading this book if you love studio Ghibli vibes, dashing gargoyle hero with a troubled past and kind and sweet heroine you will ever met.
So get cozy and read this book with your favourite cup of tea ☕️
I can not wait till the next book❤️🔥
‼️ Release January 13th ‼️
December 24, 2024
Just a cute sweet simple read. The storyline was very easy to follow and the characters were likable.
I loved the progression of Romulus being accepted in the town and the little side details we got about other members of the town.
I also loved a physical manifestation of their mating marks. Such a cute detail. Insta-love for sure but super adorable.
Perfect for each other.
I loved the progression of Romulus being accepted in the town and the little side details we got about other members of the town.
I also loved a physical manifestation of their mating marks. Such a cute detail. Insta-love for sure but super adorable.
Perfect for each other.
February 10, 2025
This short, sweet, and spicy book got me through my worst flu days, and for that, I am grateful. Rom and Laini are just so cute and sweet, I loved every moment of this. Rom’s wounded past and current insecurities made him so endearing and real, I instantly connected with him. Laini is such a sweetheart, ugh, this book was just so COZY!
✨ Cozy Magical Small town
✨ Insta-Burn
✨ Love potions
✨ Cute animal sidekicks
✨ mate bonds
✨ Gargoyle MMC/ Human FMC
✨ Cozy Magical Small town
✨ Insta-Burn
✨ Love potions
✨ Cute animal sidekicks
✨ mate bonds
✨ Gargoyle MMC/ Human FMC
January 14, 2025
When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle
A cozy spicy monster romance. It was a fast-paced instalove kind of story with all the good heartwarming feels. The characters were cute and I enjoyed their quick sweet romance.
A cozy spicy monster romance. It was a fast-paced instalove kind of story with all the good heartwarming feels. The characters were cute and I enjoyed their quick sweet romance.
March 12, 2025
“But like in every flock of sheep, there are always a few meanies “ 😑😑😑
“You might love verbally sparring with me but I don’t think you want to stick your tongue in my mouth. I know I don’t want to stick mine in yours”
Aight Imma head out
“You might love verbally sparring with me but I don’t think you want to stick your tongue in my mouth. I know I don’t want to stick mine in yours”
Aight Imma head out
August 5, 2025
Who knew I liked more than werewolves?!
This was such a cozy cheesy read about an antisocial weaver who falls in love with a fellow anti social gargoyle. And I loved every second of it.
And it was way hotter than I was expecting. Like I finally get all the booktok girlies talkin about wings and horns. Like DAMN! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🥵
This was such a cozy cheesy read about an antisocial weaver who falls in love with a fellow anti social gargoyle. And I loved every second of it.
And it was way hotter than I was expecting. Like I finally get all the booktok girlies talkin about wings and horns. Like DAMN! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🥵
dnf
July 30, 2025DNF at 70%
The writing isn’t great but the story is cute, if not incredibly cheesy. I just got kind of bored and have too many other books I’d rather be reading.
The writing isn’t great but the story is cute, if not incredibly cheesy. I just got kind of bored and have too many other books I’d rather be reading.
August 2, 2025
if it wasn't for the smut, I'd think it's a children's book
July 9, 2025
yes yes yesssss!!! top shelf!!!
May 2, 2025
Title:
* When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle
Author:
* Lila Appleton
Length:
* Novella
* 152 pages
HEA/Cliffhanger:
* HEA
Series #:
* Book 1 of Leafshire Cove Monsters series
Epilogue:
* Yes
* Laini’s POV - 1 month later
* Tully’s POV - Bonus Epilogue
* BONUS Bonus:
* Mulled Gargoyle Wine
* Shepherd’s Pie Laini and Rom Style
Gettin’ Down To The Nitty-Gritty…
Genre & Tropes:
* Romantasy
* Monster Romance
* Instalove
* Forced Proximity
* He Falls First
* Protective MMC
* MMC’s Dark Past
* Friends to Lovers to Friends to Lovers
* Love Potion
* Magical Pet
Triggers:
* 18+
* MF
* ‘Dirty’ internal speak
* On page s*x
* Fellatio
* Mild Masterb*tion
* Off page SA (not either MCs)
* Mild bullying
Burn Speed:
* Fast-ish ⚡️
Spice Level:
*
* When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle
Author:
* Lila Appleton
Length:
* Novella
* 152 pages
HEA/Cliffhanger:
* HEA
Series #:
* Book 1 of Leafshire Cove Monsters series
Epilogue:
* Yes
* Laini’s POV - 1 month later
* Tully’s POV - Bonus Epilogue
* BONUS Bonus:
* Mulled Gargoyle Wine
* Shepherd’s Pie Laini and Rom Style
Gettin’ Down To The Nitty-Gritty…
Genre & Tropes:
* Romantasy
* Monster Romance
* Instalove
* Forced Proximity
* He Falls First
* Protective MMC
* MMC’s Dark Past
* Friends to Lovers to Friends to Lovers
* Love Potion
* Magical Pet
Triggers:
* 18+
* MF
* ‘Dirty’ internal speak
* On page s*x
* Fellatio
* Mild Masterb*tion
* Off page SA (not either MCs)
* Mild bullying
Burn Speed:
* Fast-ish ⚡️
Spice Level:
*
June 20, 2025
’Vales la pena el riesgo, Rom.‘
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers.
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle de Lila Appleton Serie Leafshire Cove Monsters libro 1
Argumento:
Una fiesta estilo condado obliga a un tejedora humana de principios estrictos y a un guardia gárgola melancólico a reunirse de las formas más deliciosamente llenas de tensión.
Tengo un talento, y no son las relaciones. Es tejer. Pero tengo una oportunidad de mantener mi acogedora vida en la mágica Cala de Leafshire, y necesitaré una pareja.
Rechacé el romance; mi última relación fue un desastre humillante. Pero para participar en el concurso de tapices del alcalde y ganar el contrato, necesito una cita, gracias a un ridículo y antiguo hechizo de hadas que exige que los asistentes traigan a una posible pareja.
Cuando mi amienemiga sugiere al nuevo guardia de la torre de vigilancia, una gárgola gruñona llamada Rómulo que nunca habla y se esconde tras una enorme capa, creo que finalmente se ha vuelto loca. Pero dicha amienemiga se niega a ceder, y de repente, la gárgola y yo nos vemos obligados a una pareja temporal.
Rómulo trabaja para el alcalde, así que no le queda más remedio que irse. Debido a un problema pasado con su magia de piedra, está decidido a permanecer soltero, así que no debería haber problema.
Hasta que compartamos la tetera equivocada…
Mi humilde opinión:
Romance de fantasía, monstruos, de enemigos a amantes, proximidad forzada, él cae primero, atracción instantánea, parejas destinadas.
Esta fue una lectura rápida y agradable. La historia sucedía en un mundo medieval con magia y seres mágicos. Laini es una humana y Rom una gárgola que se enamoran. Pero teme estar con ella porque la magia de él puede ser muy peligrosa y sobre todo cuando no sabe controlarla del todo. Cuando piensa que pude tener una pareja y controlar sus poderes sucede un accidente que lo obliga a dejar a la mujer que ama.
Me gustaban los protagonistas y su historia de amor me resultó dulce. Pero me desagradó casi todo Leafshire Cove, en serio, cuando Leo insultó a Laini en el baile no debió ser Rom con quien se disgustaran y echaran! Aparte de Laini y Tully, nadie salió en su defensa! Y Rustion donde estaba para reprender a su hijo? Leo debió haber sido detenido antes por molestar a Laini y nunca lo hicieron, lo dejaron seguir con su acoso.
Quería que Rom y Laini lucharan mas para estar juntos. Me molestó mucho que ella aceptara que solo fueron amigos, que hicieran mas para luchar por ellos. Hizo falta que llegara una tormenta y que Rom regresara por Laini para salvar al pueblo, y ganarse la aceptación de todos. No se merecían a Rom la verdad.
January 30, 2025
There's just something about a cozy fantasy monster romance that just melts my heart every time, and if a gargoyle or orc is involved I'm so there. This is a deliciously delightful read with all the feel good vibes that a sweet, steamy cozy tale provides, leaving me believing that true love is possible even if you are not looking for it. Yes I simply adored this book and I will definitely be looking out for others by this author in the future.
Laini is a weaver who pours her heart and soul into her creations, she prefers her loom over love after a disastrous breakup. Her dream is to win the tapestry contest so she can keep her shop open.
Romulus is the towns new watchtower guard, a gargoyle looking to start anew after having issues in his past involving his stone magic.
But when the mayor announces his competition this year is to be held at the harvest party, where an ancient fairy spell requires the contestants to bring a date, both Laini and Romulus are forced into a temporary match to attend.
Neither are looking for love but fate along with a magical tea have other ideas...
Laini is just the sweetest girl with a heart of gold, unfortunately due to her past relationship that ended badly she hides herself away with her weaving. Her slimeball of an ex goes out of his way to make her life miserable and apart from Tully she has no friends. When 'forced' by Tully to ask Romulus to the harvest party, something magical happens, not only does she see the beautiful soul underneath the cloak, she starts to come out of her shell and stand up for herself too. Yeah I adored her.
Romulus is the most adorable cinnamon roll of a gargoyle I've ever met. Shy, unsure of himself and determined to keep to himself, even if it means being alone had me falling in love with him from the start. His painful past caused by his unpredictable magic had me wanting to hug the hell out of him. Add in the fact that this gargoyle can cook, well you have one of the best book boyfriends a girl could want.
And Tully, the mischievous witch who pulls pranks like giving Laini a relaxing tea which is anything but, is an absolute blast. For someone who is a frenemy she really does have Laini's best interests at heart and she wove a spell over mine, I can't wait for the next book in which she is the main character.
So yes, if your looking for a heartwarming story with wonderful characters, a sweet swoony, cozy tale with spice this is for you. I highly recommend 😁
Laini is a weaver who pours her heart and soul into her creations, she prefers her loom over love after a disastrous breakup. Her dream is to win the tapestry contest so she can keep her shop open.
Romulus is the towns new watchtower guard, a gargoyle looking to start anew after having issues in his past involving his stone magic.
But when the mayor announces his competition this year is to be held at the harvest party, where an ancient fairy spell requires the contestants to bring a date, both Laini and Romulus are forced into a temporary match to attend.
Neither are looking for love but fate along with a magical tea have other ideas...
Laini is just the sweetest girl with a heart of gold, unfortunately due to her past relationship that ended badly she hides herself away with her weaving. Her slimeball of an ex goes out of his way to make her life miserable and apart from Tully she has no friends. When 'forced' by Tully to ask Romulus to the harvest party, something magical happens, not only does she see the beautiful soul underneath the cloak, she starts to come out of her shell and stand up for herself too. Yeah I adored her.
Romulus is the most adorable cinnamon roll of a gargoyle I've ever met. Shy, unsure of himself and determined to keep to himself, even if it means being alone had me falling in love with him from the start. His painful past caused by his unpredictable magic had me wanting to hug the hell out of him. Add in the fact that this gargoyle can cook, well you have one of the best book boyfriends a girl could want.
And Tully, the mischievous witch who pulls pranks like giving Laini a relaxing tea which is anything but, is an absolute blast. For someone who is a frenemy she really does have Laini's best interests at heart and she wove a spell over mine, I can't wait for the next book in which she is the main character.
So yes, if your looking for a heartwarming story with wonderful characters, a sweet swoony, cozy tale with spice this is for you. I highly recommend 😁
December 31, 2024
Is there such a thing as "Steamy Cozy Read"? If not, there should be....This is cute, sweet, adorable, steamy, spicy and sheer delightful escapism. Laini is a weaver, she is desperate to get employed by the mayor, a kind and caring individual, unlike his vile son, who also happens to be Laini's ex. What a douchbag! Romulus, oh he is just awesome! I mean, he cooks, apron and all AND he has an earring! Swoon....! He's a gargoyle with a past he'd rather keep hidden, and completely besotted with Laini... With the harvest party imminent, both Laini and Romulus need to find a date, that's a prerequisite you see, but both would prefer not to... too bad, they have to attend. Romulus because his boss insists on it, Laini because the tapestry competition, which she hopes to win, is happening that night. So, emotions all over the place even before the festival! Enter Tully, Laini's good friend who has a mischievous streak in her, and voilà, date made for them. But shoot is Tully naughty! Nice naughty though, she gives Laini a "relaxing" tea, yes... right....but she's a good friend.
Ms Appleton presented me with the most gorgeous "underdog" characters that had a sliver of me in them, you know, the uncertainty one can feel, the insecurity one can feel? Well let me tell you, by the time I'd finished this book, struzz Bob, I was ready to conquer the world! The way she presented the characters was so much fun, getting to know them was so much fun, what transpires between them was so much fun. Oh, ok, and VERY VERY hot! I swear I could look for a monster with all the traits Romulus has and be completely sated...THAT statement was very tongue in cheek...😜 But seriously, both he and Laini are excellent examples of shrugging off the bias and bullying of others, of finding what really matters and taking control of ones own destiny. Which these 2 do, supremely well. And there's the most adorable little dragonfox called Spark!
I really loved this incredible feel good story! This book left the biggest smile on my face that no one and nothing could wipe it off, even an hour later! It fills the spot of warm, fuzzy with a healthy dose of spice!
Ms Appleton presented me with the most gorgeous "underdog" characters that had a sliver of me in them, you know, the uncertainty one can feel, the insecurity one can feel? Well let me tell you, by the time I'd finished this book, struzz Bob, I was ready to conquer the world! The way she presented the characters was so much fun, getting to know them was so much fun, what transpires between them was so much fun. Oh, ok, and VERY VERY hot! I swear I could look for a monster with all the traits Romulus has and be completely sated...THAT statement was very tongue in cheek...😜 But seriously, both he and Laini are excellent examples of shrugging off the bias and bullying of others, of finding what really matters and taking control of ones own destiny. Which these 2 do, supremely well. And there's the most adorable little dragonfox called Spark!
I really loved this incredible feel good story! This book left the biggest smile on my face that no one and nothing could wipe it off, even an hour later! It fills the spot of warm, fuzzy with a healthy dose of spice!
July 19, 2025
This one was fun with a quick romance and a little well-placed magic and a town full of interesting characters. And a sweet pet. That said, Laini's frenemy doing what she did to get Rom and Laini to act on their feelings is a big NO in my book. Consent is everything. Even in the magical world. (To be fair, Tully's book is next in the series, so she will maybe possibly hopefully learn the error of her ways and not just apologize because Laini is glaring at her.)
Anywho. Laini and Rom. She's a talented weaver who is dealing with the gossip-y fallout of her last relationship imploding. Her ex is a Jerky McJerkPants and I honestly don't see why she would date him in the first place, but now that they've ended things, she's the one dealing with the town gossip and she just wants to weave in peace. Rom is...kinda in the same boat. Minus the jerky ex. He's a fiercely private gargoyle who blames himself for something that happened at his previous place of employment. Which means he doesn't think he should get involved with Laini so she won't get hurt/her reputation won't take another hit/etc. He also doesn't think he deserves someone as sweet and talented as Laini.
Fortunately for both of them, Tully intervenes (I may not agree with her method of getting things done, but I have to admit she gets results) and soon the two are spending time together AND MORE.
A little magic, a jerky ex, a mischievous critter, a gargoyle with oodles of magic, and a lady who knows a good monster when she meets him. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Anywho. Laini and Rom. She's a talented weaver who is dealing with the gossip-y fallout of her last relationship imploding. Her ex is a Jerky McJerkPants and I honestly don't see why she would date him in the first place, but now that they've ended things, she's the one dealing with the town gossip and she just wants to weave in peace. Rom is...kinda in the same boat. Minus the jerky ex. He's a fiercely private gargoyle who blames himself for something that happened at his previous place of employment. Which means he doesn't think he should get involved with Laini so she won't get hurt/her reputation won't take another hit/etc. He also doesn't think he deserves someone as sweet and talented as Laini.
Fortunately for both of them, Tully intervenes (I may not agree with her method of getting things done, but I have to admit she gets results) and soon the two are spending time together AND MORE.
A little magic, a jerky ex, a mischievous critter, a gargoyle with oodles of magic, and a lady who knows a good monster when she meets him. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 12, 2025
I received an ARC copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Cozy fantasy settings immediately get my interest and that’s what initially drew me to this tale. Happy to say, the setting is perfect. A Shire-like setting in all the right ways—comfortable, homey but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some jerks intent on making our characters’ lives complicated.
Laini is a fun protagonist. We get bits and pieces of her past but they aren’t delved into with great detail. I see a few readers feeling this was a problem but I don’t really think it was. We don’t necessarily need to know what happened in her previous relationship to make her cautious about love. We just know something happened and when we catch glimpses of her ex, we can fill in the blanks pretty easily. Didn’t bother me.
Rom is a sweetheart and I just have a thing for huge monstrous (pun intended) men who are the gentlest, sweetest marshmallows. I love how much respect matters to him—-because he doesn’t get a lot of it—and it’s reflected in how he speaks and treats his girl.
Then we have our lovely side characters. Our well-intentioned but bumbling matchmakers. They aren’t perfect (one even makes a pretty egregious mistake) but there’s no malice in their intent. It’s rather cute how much they want Laini happy
It’s a short read but there are more promised books to follow and I can’t wait to spend more time here!
Cozy fantasy settings immediately get my interest and that’s what initially drew me to this tale. Happy to say, the setting is perfect. A Shire-like setting in all the right ways—comfortable, homey but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some jerks intent on making our characters’ lives complicated.
Laini is a fun protagonist. We get bits and pieces of her past but they aren’t delved into with great detail. I see a few readers feeling this was a problem but I don’t really think it was. We don’t necessarily need to know what happened in her previous relationship to make her cautious about love. We just know something happened and when we catch glimpses of her ex, we can fill in the blanks pretty easily. Didn’t bother me.
Rom is a sweetheart and I just have a thing for huge monstrous (pun intended) men who are the gentlest, sweetest marshmallows. I love how much respect matters to him—-because he doesn’t get a lot of it—and it’s reflected in how he speaks and treats his girl.
Then we have our lovely side characters. Our well-intentioned but bumbling matchmakers. They aren’t perfect (one even makes a pretty egregious mistake) but there’s no malice in their intent. It’s rather cute how much they want Laini happy
It’s a short read but there are more promised books to follow and I can’t wait to spend more time here!
January 28, 2025
This book was equal parts adorable and steamy! Set in a cute, gaslamp magical village with the potential for a lot of worldbuilding in future books! Laini was a relatable FMC who loves her small village, but has been burned by a toxic ex and feels a bit awkward and is now isolating herself since the break up. She just wants to make ends meet as a weaver and feel like herself again. Romulus is new(ish) to town and has had some past difficulties which has led him to become a bit of a recluse as the watchtower gargoyle, hiding behind his cloak and hood. A bit of meddling gets them paired up to attend a festival together and the sparks start to fly!
This was really sweet, I enjoyed the relationship between Laini and Romulus, although it was a fast burn, instalove type of relationship. I wish there was a little more substance to their relationship building and character development. There was a good amount of spice but without taking away too much from the plot of the book. I did like the magic system, coupled with the unpredictable magic storms and Rom's magical powers as well. Can't forget Spark, either! I love a cute animal sidekick. Overall, a really great debut for Lila Appleton!
Thank you to Book Sirens, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was really sweet, I enjoyed the relationship between Laini and Romulus, although it was a fast burn, instalove type of relationship. I wish there was a little more substance to their relationship building and character development. There was a good amount of spice but without taking away too much from the plot of the book. I did like the magic system, coupled with the unpredictable magic storms and Rom's magical powers as well. Can't forget Spark, either! I love a cute animal sidekick. Overall, a really great debut for Lila Appleton!
Thank you to Book Sirens, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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