Knocked Up by the Minotaur, authored by Skye Castel, is a fantasy romance novel that dives into the mythical and steamy juxtaposition of modern lives entwined with ancient legends. This piece of literature evidently straddles the lines between fantasy and erotic romance, artfully blending both to produce a story that is as intriguing as it is titillating.

The narrative unfolds with our protagonist, Lila Martin, a curator at the historical museum in her small town. Lila’s life is pretty mundane and uneventful until she stumbles upon an ancient artifact — a pendant believed to have belonged to the Minotaur of Crete legend. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself magically transported to an ancient labyrinth, face to face with Asterius – the Minotaur himself – who is far more man than beast, contrary to what the legends suggest.

Skye Castel crafts characters that leap off the pages, filling this fantastical world with personalities that are vibrant and engaging. Lila is a strong protagonist, her curiosity and dedication to her work forming the backbone of her very existence. Her transition from mundane to mythical is well-handled by Castel, retaining her core essence while allowing her to adapt to her significantly altered circumstances. On the other side, Asterius is not merely a monster, but a complex entity with emotions, a tragic past, and dilemmas that resonate with the human condition. Rendered immortal and cursed by the gods, his encounter with Lila brings hope and a palpable sexual tension that drives much of the narrative.

The erotic elements of the book are bold and explicit, making it suitable only for an adult audience. Castel masterfully uses these scenes to deepen the connection between Lila and Asterius, transforming their relationship from one of initial shock and fear to one of deep, passionate love. The growth of their relationship is one of the book’s strengths, demonstrating Castel's capability to handle sensitive themes with maturity and respect.

However, Knocked Up by the Minotaur is not merely about romance and eroticism. It has a gripping subplot featuring mythical lore, curses, and the gods themselves. The narrative is well-paced, with Castel sprinkling enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. The mythological elements are well-researched and intelligently woven into the story, providing not only a rich backdrop but also serving as a crucial element of the plot. The description of the labyrinth, the depiction of ancient Crete, and the intervention of the gods all combine to create a vivid and enchanting setting.

Amidst the fantastical and the erotic, there are themes of destiny, transformation, and power dynamics that are explored thoughtfully throughout the book. As Lila navigates the labyrinth of her new reality, she also confronts the metaphoric labyrinths within herself and her relationships, symbolizing personal growth and empowerment. The feminist undertones, especially presented through Lila’s character who chooses to embrace her desires and take control of her destiny, are subtly yet powerfully done.

The style of Castel's writing deserves mention as well. It is fluid and vivid, with descriptive language that effectively conjures images and emotions. Whether describing passionate encounters or tense, dramatic moments, Castel’s prose manages to transport readers directly into the heart of the labyrinth, making them feel every fear, desire, and triumph that Lila experiences.

However, the novel is not without its flaws. At times, the transition between the modern world and the ancient could feel somewhat abrupt, potentially leaving the reader desiring a bit more explanation or smoother transitions. Additionally, while the erotic scenes are well-integrated into the story, their frequency may not appeal to all readers, particularly those who prefer a subtler approach to romance.

In conclusion, Knocked Up by the Minotaur is a bold foray into the merging of mythological elements with contemporary erotic romance. Skye Castel delivers a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, making it a recommended read for those who appreciate a steamy, mythologically rich love story. For fans of fantasy and erotic romance alike, this book promises to be a compelling and enjoyable read, provided the reader is comfortable with its mature themes and explicit content.