Muscles & Monsters by Ashley Bennett
on February 10, 2026
Genres: Fiction / Romance / Paranormal / General, Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy, Fiction / Romance / Sports
Pages: 304
Format: ARC, eBook
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If you’re looking for a sweet, slightly spicy escape read that doesn’t demand too much emotional heavy lifting, Muscles & Monsters is exactly that. The first book in Ashley Bennett’s Leviathan Fitness series introduces a world where humans and monsters coexist — and sometimes, fall in love.
The story follows Tegan, a local cake decorator whose wedding cake catastrophe sends her (and her frosting) tumbling onto the sidewalk. Her disaster draws the attention of Atlas, a solid wall of fur and fangs who steps in to help clean up the mess. Their meet-cute is adorable and full of gentle humor, and from that moment, it’s clear Atlas is more than just muscle — he’s got heart, too.
After their encounter, Atlas invites Tegan to his gym, Leviathan Fitness, anytime she needs help lifting cakes. But Tegan decides she’d rather lift them herself. What follows is a quick, feel-good romance filled with attraction, light banter, and just enough spice to keep things fun.
This book doesn’t get too deep into character backstories or emotional complications — and honestly, that works in its favor. It’s straightforward and easy to enjoy, with no unnecessary drama or frustrating third-act breakup. Atlas and Tegan know what they want, and watching their connection unfold feels refreshingly simple.
While a human-and-wolf pairing might be new territory for some readers, Bennett makes it approachable and sweet. The fantasy elements are light, and the relationship dynamic feels surprisingly natural. It’s the perfect kind of book to read alongside something heavier — a cozy, low-stress escape that delivers a happy ending without any heartache.
Bottom line: Muscles & Monsters is a cute, wolfish romance that balances sweetness and spice with ease. If you’re in the mood for a quick, feel-good read with plenty of charm (and a few muscles), this one’s a great pick.
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