Small as a Mushroom
by Deiri Di
It takes more than mushrooms to break Nora’s will.
Spending years working in the fields to fill the kitchens of the Order Academy has kept Nora alive, giving her a space to keep her head down amongst the towering rows of gargantuan mushrooms. She was strong before she arrived and is stronger now after years of hard labor, and she knows she has to escape or die a slave in the sunbaked fields. She has a plan, ready to act on one of the two rumors she learned over the years.
She just needs the right Aetheriani to bargain with.
Crystallo looks like an angel, with glimmering white wings and devilish eyes that look at her like she is a feast for his very soul. One year of service to him is something she is more than willing to promise for freedom, especially when his wingtip ghosts over her body, causing her blood to seer beneath her skin.
But there is a problem.
The other rumor going around about his kind? It’s about the oversized weapon that swings from his hips, a weapon she is now expected to handle. But Nora is strong, and she has spent years twisting and breaking the stems of mushrooms she can’t get both hands around.
He’s about to find out just how strong she is.
This standalone novella with a HFN ending, like the others in this series, is cheeky. Monstrous kisses, chosen proximity, and a happy-for-now ending await in this fast, fun novella set in the Chaos God universe. Perfect for readers who crave unexpected surprises in monster romance where the sizes are more than compatible. The cake is a lie, and so is the mushroom.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Deiri Di's novella, Small as a Mushroom, is a captivating foray into the realm of monster romance, set against the backdrop of the intriguing Chaos God universe. This standalone story offers a unique blend of fantasy, romance, and a touch of cheeky humor, making it a delightful read for those who appreciate a twist on traditional romantic narratives.
The protagonist, Nora, is a character of remarkable resilience and strength. Having spent years laboring in the fields of the Order Academy, she is no stranger to hardship. Her life among the towering rows of gargantuan mushrooms is a testament to her endurance and determination. Nora's character is well-crafted, embodying the spirit of someone who refuses to be broken by her circumstances. Her journey is not just about physical escape but also about reclaiming her autonomy and agency in a world that seeks to subjugate her.
One of the novella's most compelling aspects is its exploration of power dynamics and the theme of freedom. Nora's desire to escape the sunbaked fields is not just a physical quest but a metaphorical one as well. Her plan to bargain with an Aetheriani, Crystallo, introduces an intriguing layer to the narrative. Crystallo, with his angelic appearance and devilish eyes, is a character that embodies both allure and danger. The chemistry between Nora and Crystallo is palpable, and their interactions are charged with tension and anticipation.
The novella's setting in the Chaos God universe adds a rich layer of fantasy to the story. The world-building is subtle yet effective, providing just enough detail to immerse readers without overwhelming them. The concept of the Aetheriani and their unique characteristics, such as Crystallo's glimmering white wings, adds a fantastical element that enhances the romance. The juxtaposition of the mundane labor in the mushroom fields with the ethereal presence of the Aetheriani creates a fascinating contrast that underscores the novella's themes of escape and transformation.
Di's writing is both engaging and evocative, with a style that balances humor and drama. The novella's cheeky tone is evident in the playful banter between characters and the whimsical descriptions of the world. The author skillfully uses humor to lighten the narrative, making it a fun and fast-paced read. The novella's length is perfect for the story it tells, ensuring that the plot remains tight and focused without unnecessary digressions.
One of the standout elements of Small as a Mushroom is its subversion of traditional romance tropes. The story embraces the concept of "monster romance," where the love interest is not a typical human but a creature of fantasy. This subgenre has gained popularity in recent years, with authors like Ruby Dixon and Talia Hibbert exploring similar themes. However, Di's novella distinguishes itself with its unique setting and the dynamic between Nora and Crystallo. The novella's playful take on size compatibility and the humorous twist on the "oversized weapon" rumor add a layer of originality that sets it apart from other works in the genre.
The novella's conclusion, with its happy-for-now (HFN) ending, is satisfying and fitting for the story. It leaves room for imagination and speculation, allowing readers to ponder the future of Nora and Crystallo's relationship. This type of ending is particularly effective in a standalone novella, as it provides closure while maintaining a sense of possibility.
Overall, Small as a Mushroom is a delightful addition to the monster romance genre. Its blend of fantasy, romance, and humor makes it an enjoyable read for those seeking something different from the norm. The novella's exploration of themes such as freedom, power, and transformation is thought-provoking, and its characters are memorable and well-developed. Deiri Di has crafted a story that is both entertaining and meaningful, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a novella that offers unexpected surprises, a strong female protagonist, and a romance that defies conventions, Small as a Mushroom is a perfect choice. Its engaging narrative and unique take on monster romance will leave readers eagerly anticipating more stories set in the Chaos God universe.
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