Thank you so much for trying out the game.
As for being unable to place a character in the shelter during a turn:
1- It is a turn-based game, so I can't allow the player to place another monster before every existing monster has taken its turn, if any.
2- I don't think it ruins the sense of urgency. In my opinion, it actually intensifies the consequences of a wrong placement, since attacks take more time away from you before you regain control. However, it is still a good point to consider and think about, so thank you!
As for the facing direction, I totally agree with you. Some sprites don't represent their direction clearly enough, especially the diagonal ones.
Thank you for playing the game and for your feedback!