Thank you to Bramble for the eARC.

My BFF told me about this book months ago. She goes “he turns into a horse and the FMC rides him to escape.” One, my thoughts were dirty and two, I knew I needed to read it.

This book had things I love: enemies-to-lovers, an awkward, nerdy MMC, a magical world without too much world building, humor, chronic illness representation, and a bad guy that gets his comeuppance.

I really fell for Bianca and Aric and I just felt like I was rooting for them. Watching them both get over their mistrust and slowly begin to fall for each other was just heartwarming. My first from this author but hopefully not my last!

I fell off the treadmill reading this. I don’t think you can give a much better endorsement for how absorbing a book is than that. This is the adult version of all the books I loved as a kid/teen, with some great disability/chronic illness and queer representation.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Everyone boo me while you throw tomatoes my way. I missed finishing this one before it came out.

Now, onto the review:

Between this and another stand-alone romantasy I read recently, I’m starting to wonder if stand-alone fantasy/romantasy isn't for me. 😅

This was fine, overall. Just enough fantasy/world-building to be interesting, but not so much that it felt like too much crammed into a single novel. If the author ever wishes to return to this world, there is still plenty to explore.

With the magic system, specifically, though, things felt a little…underwhelming? Like I feel like I had enough of an understanding to get by, but there were still things I didn’t understand? Like I understood that there was supposed to be these clear differences between Bianca’s home country and the magic they use and how they use it, versus Aric and his country. Adept magic vs wild/blood magic. What felt weird/underdeveloped was the black and white comparisons that were made as the story went on. Like the more Bianca saw of Gildenheim’s magic, the more she, for lack of a better term, villainized the magic in her home country Damaria. I'm sure that won't matter to most people, but I personally don't know if I would so quickly change my outlook on my home countries ways. Like I said earlier, maybe there's more to explore there, should the author choose to do so. Overall, the magic was vague enough to serve the story without getting into overwhelming specifics, imo.

This did feel to me like a true "romantasy", in the sense that the romance took center stage and the fantasy elements were the set dressing. And, while it may not sound like it, I mean that as a compliment in this instance, mostly. I, frankly, really enjoyed the set up of Aric being turned into a horse during the day. And I’m all for the confessions that Aric and Bianca shared, but given that the vast majority of this book takes place over the course of like two weeks max, it all felt a little unearned, again imo. Not quite insta-love levels, but still.

I have to admit that I wasn’t crazy about Bianca when the story first started. She was fine until she got to Gildenheim, then she just kind of…turned into a spoiled brat for a little bit? I understand that, given the rumors about her betrothed that she’d be a little defensive and on edge, but she perceived everything he did and didn’t do as some kind of insult, and it felt like the author was reaching on Bianca’s side of things to make the misunderstanding between her and Aric happen when they flee the assassin. For example: when she gets to her rooms, there are 3 books in there in her native language, one on her country’s war history, an out-of-date pamphlet on her country's fashion, and a third book I don’t remember. She thinks the war history is a threat and takes the style pamphlet as an insult to her. Like, girl, maybe it was a kind gesture and that’s all they have in their library in your native language. For all you know this man is in mourning while taking over a whole country, cut him some slack.

As for Aric, no notes. I love him, and from what we get of him (seeing as the whole book is in Bianca's POV, which is fine) he didn't seem nearly as unreasonable as Bianca had been at the start.

In the pros column, I enjoyed this book’s sense of humor, especially the horse puns scattered throughout. And I’m not too proud to admit when I simply enjoy a book. I didn’t love it, it didn’t change my life, but I didn’t hate it either. Was it predictable? To me, yeah. But was it fun? Also, yes.

In conclusion: give this a shot if you like light (cozy?) fantasy with a heaping helping of romance.

Such a cute story, remincent of a couple favourite movies of mine (lady hawk, the polar bear king).
The characters are loveable and take you on a fun adventure.

Honestly, this was exactly the kind of cozy fantasy romance I wanted after a heavy week — humorous, plenty of action and adventure, with some comforting tropes built in (road trip, only one bed). If you’re still sad about My Lady Jane being cancelled, this one is for you.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this edition from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Behooved is pure magic—equal parts whimsical, heartfelt, and refreshingly original. If you’re a fan of My Lady Jane and love a cozy fantasy with bite, banter, and a bit of spice, this one absolutely belongs on your shelf.

At first glance, the premise sounds like a fairytale fever dream: a chronically ill duchess forced into a political marriage with a cursed king who turns into a literal white stallion by day. But what unfolds is so much more than a quirky setup. It’s a slow-burn romance and a thoughtful, character-driven adventure that quietly knocks you off your feet.

Aric, the cursed bookworm king, is the kind of soft, introverted hero you can’t help but fall for—his awkwardness at parties and quiet strength made me feel seen in ways I wasn’t expecting. And Bianca? She’s incredible. Fierce, pragmatic, deeply human. The way her chronic illness is represented with nuance, care, and honesty, elevates this story beyond a simple fairytale. It becomes a celebration of the fact that strength comes not from the absence of struggle, but from moving forward through it.

Their chemistry is top-tier grumpy x grumpy gold, with just the right amount of tension, tenderness, and heat. The “one bed” trope? Nailed it. And the spice? Perfectly balanced, never overwhelming the story, but woven in with meaning and impact.

The supporting cast deserves a standing ovation too—lesbian lady knights, hilariously blunt siblings, and loyal friends who actually feel like real people. Everyone has a purpose, a motivation, and a voice. Marya, Tatiana, Catalina… I’m genuinely hoping we get spinoffs because I wasn’t ready to let any of them go.

The queer-normative world is a breath of fresh air—seamless, inclusive, and lovingly done. You don’t realize how much you’ve been craving this kind of representation until M. Stevenson hands it to you with grace and zero fanfare. And while the world-building is rich and imaginative, the tone remains cozy, even during moments of darkness. It’s an adventure with warmth, humor, and heart.

At just over 300 pages, it’s a fast read, but one that lingers. This story made me laugh, ache, swoon, and reflect. It reminded me that anyone can be a hero.

So if you like your fairytales with sass, softness, slow-burn romance, and social commentary wrapped up in a cursed-horse-shaped bow? Behooved will charm the hooves off you.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ — A Cozy, Magical Rom-Com with Laugh-Out-Loud Banter

Behooved is a fun and light-hearted standalone fantasy romance that had me laughing out loud—especially in the beginning! The banter was absolutely hilarious, and the audiobook brought it to life even more. I signed up for this ARC because the plot sounded delightfully ridiculous in the best way, and it definitely delivered on the humor.

Big thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this early! I really enjoyed the magical elements woven into the story, though it’s worth noting that this isn’t an epic fantasy with a deep, complex magic system. It’s more of a cozy, feel-good tale, perfect for readers looking for charm over world-building depth.

I loved watching Bianca and the prince grow individually and together. Their romance was sweet, and their journey to discover inner strength (and each other!) was heartwarming. While it didn’t quite reach favorite status for me, Behooved was still an enjoyable read filled with charm, whimsy, and a lot of laughs.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This was SO FUN. I really really loved this book. The overall concept was so SILLY in such a good way. When this man turned into a whole ass horse I LOST IT. Such a fun thing to throw into a whole arranged marriage trope, and it gave a new way for the characters to get to know each other. I love that the MMC isn't portrayed as this big beefy strong man who is overly strong and stuff idk. Men need to struggle lifting things in books more haha. The FMC was too whiney for me though; like you are constantly talking down on yourself babes, but at the same time being stuck up about your rank when first meeting the guy. Idk I'd love to see more development on the FMC. However, the chronic illness included was BRILLIANT, and we need more authors to put that in books. Also, THAT COVER??? PERFECTION.

The concept for this was fantastic and I loved it. Animorphs but make it sexy. Who hasn't wanted a husband that's also sometimes a horse? I guess?? This was a great lighthearted romantasy read, that still maintained tone and pacing throughout. Though it was lighter overall, there was still a lot of character development and meaningful dialogue. This was just great!

"Behooved" was the perfect lighthearted and cozy romantasy to read during a busy month. I loved how it balanced keeping things relatively light and fun without sacrificing major character growth and emotional development.

I adored both main characters in "Behooved" and loved experiencing their story. I do not have Celiac disease, but as someone with frequent tummy troubles I adored the inclusion of chronic illness representation here. I hope Bianca figures out that she has a gluten intolerance. Both her and Aric were so incredibly sweet, and I loved seeing them grow together.

I love a romantasy with a silly goofy tone, but I think "Behooved" did a great job at keeping things cozy without the story being slapstick. There are definitely stakes in the story, both personal and farther reaching, but while the plot kept things moving at a relatively quick pace you really got to sit with these characters and their world. And what a fun world at that. I know this is a standalone, but I would certainly read more about this world and its characters.

With all the trappings of a classic fairytale story, this one was really a lot of fun.

He's a half hoooooorse (half man)

4 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Bramble for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you, NetGalley and publishers.

Behooved is a romantasy with a twist in the tale, reminiscent of the movie Ladyhawke. Bianca journeys to a neighboring kingdom determined to do her duty and keep the peace between the countries even though she is battling a mysterious and largely invisible illness that she has been told all her life makes her lesser. Upon her arrival, her fiancé is as rude and unpleasant to her as she had feared. Still she is determined to do her duty and be worthwhile. When the couple is attacked on their wedding night by an assassin Bianca activates a protection spell but it goes horribly awry. Aric, her husband, has been turned into a horse! The couple reluctantly flees together, hoping that the spell can be reversed. And as the sun sets, he is once again a human. However, he is once again a horse at sunrise. Time is not on their side as they race to find a cure, learning to love each other for their good qualities and working through their misunderstandings as well.

This book threw me for a loop for a little bit. From reading the blurb and the plot of the book I honestly didn’t know what to expect but it was really good! I loved the banter between the main characters and the tension she built up. And I loved that the MMC could communicate even when he was turned into a horse so they could keep up the banter and the forced proximity and tension. I did feel like the plot behind the framing could have been built up a little more but overall this was a really good book and kept me interested the entire time! I’d definitely recommend it to friends!

It’s best not to think too hard while reading this one. There was a lot of world building that made no sense, and choices made (and questions NOT asked) in the beginning that were all kind of dumb. Once he finally turns into a horse (around 20%) it gets more entertaining… but still not great.

This book couldn’t decide if it was YA or not. It’s not. But it almost would have been better if it was? I think it would have done better as a low stakes comfy read that was funnier. The best parts were the humor but they were unfortunately rare.

Idk it was a bit all over the place. I did really like the chronic illness rep. The world / vibes had a lot of potential… But I also kinda wanted his PoV. It felt lacking. The chemistry just wasn’t really there without it. The romance wasn’t the best.

I feel bad bc this isn’t a good review and I really wanted to like it, but it is what it is.

Behooved is a self-aware romance fit for the horse girls of a certain generation. It's quirky, cute, and laugh-out-loud funny.

This is a nice cozy read. Think warm blanket with your bestie, while indulging in some snacks. There's a whimsical fairytale quality to the story while being humorous at times. I loved that the heroine's got a chronic "illness" while the main hero is nerdy and somewhat anti-social. Him turning into a horse is the funniest thing ever. If you like fairytale-like retellings, this is the book for you. There's no high-stakes here, just all coziness.

This read was highly anticipated with its beautiful cover. I was immediately swept in with the cozy atmosphere and great pacing. It reminded me of old favorites like Ella Enchanted. I hope to share this with readers looking for the perfect nostalgic fairy tale romance.

Who doesn't love a good fantasy road trip adventure?! I certainly do! Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.

Lady Bianca and King apparent Aric are arranged to be married in order to avoid a war. Both enter into this union based on duty, but an assassination attempt on their wedding night ends up with some accidental magic that turns Aric into a....HORSE. Bianca does what can only be done at a time like this, and jumps onto her new husband's back and gallops away. The romance burns slow while the couple tries to discover a cure for the curse, manage Bianca's chronic illness, and make discoveries about betrayal and plots all while making horse puns, marriage jokes, and breaking furniture.

The back and forth between Bianca and Aric was fantastic. I appreciated that Aric wants to understand Binaca's illness and help her manage the symptoms rather than try and tell her what would "Cure" it or blame her for something she can't control. I also loved that Bianca was plucky and brave with real defense training, while also showing her trying to fight with weapons too large or not her normal weapon. The horse scenes were written so well and I laughed multiple times when Bianca's only real explanation, that she understands she really can't use is, "This is my husband, and he's a horse." This is some of my favorite fantasy in recent years, Great job!

Thank you to the publishers for an early look at one of my most anticipated reads of 2025!

When I first heard about BEHOOVED I thought it was a dream come true:

Fantasy romance? ✔️
Arranged marriage trope? ✔️
Undiagnosed celiac disease representation? ✔️
Gorgeous pink sprayed edges? ✔️

I could not hit preorder fast enough! My expectations were sky high for this book and thankfully I was rewarded with a charming fantasy romp!

Summary: Bianca knows her duty comes before her heart. Plagued by inexplicable pain and sickness since childhood, she feels extra pressure to maintain the picture-perfect facade of a noblewoman and protect her family’s honor. So when the threat of war looms, she agrees to marry the neighboring kingdom’s heir, Prince Aric. But not all royal weddings are a fairytale and Aric is cold, aloof, and seems to hate her on sight.

To make matters worse, on their wedding night, an assassination attempt goes awry―leaving Aric magically transformed into a horse.

Sunset returns Aric to human form, but they soon discover the assassination attempt is part of a larger plot against the throne. As an unexpected romance begins galloping away with their hearts, Bianca and Aric must rely on each other to unravel the curse and save the throne.

The silly fun of this plot is countered by Bianca’s very real and relatable experience with chronic illness. Her pain is portrayed SO well and often made me emotional as I have celiac disease myself and it’s incredibly rare to see it depicted on the page.

I really enjoyed this book, but I did notice a few rough edges. I wish the pacing of the romance had unfolded just a bit differently. However, I still had fun and I’m excited to read whatever the author writes next!

This romantic fantasy was a cute and quick read. I did find that it dragged a little bit in the middle of the book but other than that I did enjoy it.

Thank you NetGalley, Bramble, MacMillan Audio, and M. Stevenson for the ARC and ALC in return for my honest review.

Tropes:
💫 Forced Proximity
💫 Arranged Marriage
💫 chronic illness


Key themes:
☀️ Usurping the throne
☀️ Neighboring Kingdoms
☀️ Kingdoms with a threat of war
☀️ Curses
☀️ Blood Magic

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶/5

This book was such a nice change of pace for a fantasy book. Overall, I enjoyed this book. This is definitely a cozy fantasy/romantasy book. It isn't dense and daunting like other fantasy books out there. It was cute and short with the story tying together at the end.

I just want to say how much I appreciate 1 book fantasy stories. It gives you only what you need to know without convoluting the story.

What happens when your newly wed husband has a failed assassination attempt turns into a horse the night of your wedding just before you consummate it? (Lol.) You ride said husband 👀 and galavant off to break his curse. This book only takes place over 2 weeks (ish) time. Where Bianca (FMC) and Aric (MMC) try to work together to undo or at least replace the curse that has caused him to turn in to a horse from dawn to dusk.