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A Reverse Harem Omegaverse Bully Duet #1
Sweetheart: Part One
Never let them discover I’m an omega. Never let them discover I’m their mate. Bitten and bonded against my will, I’ve become a ransom for the celebrity alphas I scent matched. They're my last chance at freedom, and I have to make them fall for me before it’s too late.
Sent into their home disguised as a Sweetheart—a beta companion for aggressive alphas without an omega—I’m forced to keep my status secret until they fall for me, or until my heat arrives. But I grew up obsessed with the Crimson Fury Pack; they aren’t just smoking hot celebrity actors, they’re kind and generous. I know I can convince them to save me.
Only, once in their home, I learn all too fast that my mates are nothing like they appear in interviews and magazines…
What will they do when they learn the truth about the beta Sweetheart in their home...? This is a bully omegaverse, MFMMM why choose with dark themes. HEA guaranteed. Estimated launch date in September. This is part one of a duet with a cliffhanger and the second part will be released soon after (the goal of no more than two months between)
Sent into their home disguised as a Sweetheart—a beta companion for aggressive alphas without an omega—I’m forced to keep my status secret until they fall for me, or until my heat arrives. But I grew up obsessed with the Crimson Fury Pack; they aren’t just smoking hot celebrity actors, they’re kind and generous. I know I can convince them to save me.
Only, once in their home, I learn all too fast that my mates are nothing like they appear in interviews and magazines…
What will they do when they learn the truth about the beta Sweetheart in their home...? This is a bully omegaverse, MFMMM why choose with dark themes. HEA guaranteed. Estimated launch date in September. This is part one of a duet with a cliffhanger and the second part will be released soon after (the goal of no more than two months between)
456 pages, Paperback
First published September 8, 2023
About the author
Marie Mackay
27 books842 followersA British-Canadian writer, artist, and ex nurse currently living in BC, Canada. All the art-from the cover, to the illustrations within the pages-are her own.
I'm a self-proclaimed angst queen, and I write omegaverse and fantasy romance, most often with many lovers per lady. I have a strong preference toward enemies to lovers, bully, and dark romance.
The voices I bring to the paper draw from the distinct social settings in which I have lived, the many places I have travelled, and from my time in health care.
I maintain a commitment not to write pregnancy in my books (including epilogues). While I have nothing against the beauty of babies, my leading ladies find HEAs outside of children <3
I'm a self-proclaimed angst queen, and I write omegaverse and fantasy romance, most often with many lovers per lady. I have a strong preference toward enemies to lovers, bully, and dark romance.
The voices I bring to the paper draw from the distinct social settings in which I have lived, the many places I have travelled, and from my time in health care.
I maintain a commitment not to write pregnancy in my books (including epilogues). While I have nothing against the beauty of babies, my leading ladies find HEAs outside of children <3
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 612 reviews
January 18, 2024
✅ Angst
✅ Sexual tension / Some smut
✅ Characters
✅ Multiple POVs
✅ Pace
✅ Overall addictiveness
✅ Plot
✅ Rejected mate vibe
❗️❗️ Cliffhanger
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: reference to sexual assault and physical abuse (off-screen), coerced behavior via dark bond, bullying, self-harm (compelled by dark bond), manipulation and emotional abuse, brief suicidal ideation
Vex Eden found out a few months ago that she is Crimson Fury Pack's scent match, but the pack has made it clear time and time again that they want nothing to do with an omega. The problem is, that Vex is under the influence of a dark bond, a bond that allows her alpha to make her do anything he wants, and he wants her to pretend she’s a beta, and make them fall in love with her so he can have leverage over the Crimson Fury pack when he takes Vex back.
This book reminded me of the Pack Darling duology, while also being completely different in the execution and plot. There is a similar vibe to both books, with an omega having to hide some secrets about herself, and living with alphas that don’t exactly want her around. The end is also full of angst, and I am so glad that the second book of this duology is already out so I can start it right away. This book ranks right at the top of the ABO I’ve read next to Pack Darling… I couldn’t say which one I liked most.
The author also extended the usual ABO worldbuilding, adding the Gold Pack omegas; omegas that didn’t register with the government to get their injection, thus living outside of their protection (but that also means that they don't have the same restrictions when it comes to following bond/pack rules). There are also 3 types of bites/bonds in this series, the regular mate bond, the dark bond where the alpha has complete power over the omega, and the princess bond, where the omega is at the center of the bond and “rules” the pack.
Vex is strong, driven, and determined, and I love how resilient she is. She’s had a shitty life, and it only got worse in the past few months, but she still manages to get up every morning and try her best to enjoy her time with Drake and build bonds with the other alphas. She is quick and even snarky when dealing with the alphas, but that’s just what they need, and it shows that she still has spirit and spunk. She is also proud and impulsive when she’s emotional, which got her into trouble more than once, but it added even more angst to the book so I really can’t complain about that (#angstaddict).
Vex was a great main character, and all four of the alphas were very interesting as well, even if some were less likable. They all have depth and layers, and I loved how we discovered new facets of them throughout the book.
Rook Harrison
Playboy.
Arrogant.
Vain.
Rook is not used to women not wanting to sleep with him, and he doesn’t like that Vex can resist him, even worse, that she threatened him and humiliated him in front of the other alphas. He starts as a rude alpha-jerk, and we can see that he loves to push others’ buttons, especially Ebony’s, but we can also see that his desire to get revenge on Vex for her rejection turns into an interest in her, and a desire to know her more and develop a saner relationship with her even.
Love Hightower
Control.
Leader.
Sacrifice.
Love is the pack leader, trying to hold his pack together, while also managing his brother Ebony’s psychopath tendencies. Love is used to his brother ruining everything meaningful, so he tries to stay away from Vex and ignore the attraction he feels for her because he knows that if he shows interest, his brother will destroy whatever they have, and most probably hurt Vex while doing so. Honestly, he was a little bland compared to the three other alphas, but that’s simply because the others are so intense, not because Love is boring. I am curious to see him lead the pack in the next book as they will need to grovel BIG TIME if they hope to get Vex back and earn her forgiveness.
Ebony Starless
Psychopath.
Intense.
Cunning.
If you read the Pack Darling series, you could compare Ebony to Finn, except Ebony is even darker than Finn I think. Ebony is a diagnosed psychopath. He is cold, cunning, and does not feel emotions. For him, it’s all about winning or losing, and every once in a while about protecting what he considers “his”. He’s scary because he remains in total control of himself, and since there are chapters from his point of view, we can see how he mimics emotions to get what he wants. He says what he knows the others want to hear and pretends to feel, but truly he doesn’t feel much, and that is even scarier than an impulsive violent guy like Finn Wyvern. Despite his scary side, I like how he decided that Vex was “his” near the end and ended up wanting to keep her and protect her. It might not be because he feels any attachment to her, but at least he’s willing to fight for her, and she needs that.
Drake Jaccard
Cinnamon roll with extra icing.
Scarred.
Sweet.
OMG. I love Drake so much! He was the sweetest of them all, and he balanced the others’ shittiness and utterly despicable attitude. He needed Vex’s sweetness as much as she needed his, and it was wholesome to see them heal a little bit from their past trauma together. I liked all of the alphas because I do think that they will all be able to bring something to Vex eventually, but there is no competition as to who is my #1. Drake stole the spot from the very beginning. That being said, he might be my favorite, but I still think that Ebony is the more intriguing one, and I am really curious about his special bond with Drake.
There is so much manipulation and lies in the Crimson Fury pack, it’s unbelievable. They are so dysfunctional. Add to that an omega pretending to be a beta, hellbent on seducing them even though they don’t ever want to form a bond with an omega, and it’s a winning recipe for a lot of explosive and angsty situations.
Seriously, I am obsessed with this book, and if it wasn't for my baby needing me to care for him, and me being horribly sleep-deprived for the past 6 months, I would have spent the whole night up reading the sequel. 😅
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✅ Sexual tension / Some smut
✅ Characters
✅ Multiple POVs
✅ Pace
✅ Overall addictiveness
✅ Plot
✅ Rejected mate vibe
❗️❗️ Cliffhanger
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: reference to sexual assault and physical abuse (off-screen), coerced behavior via dark bond, bullying, self-harm (compelled by dark bond), manipulation and emotional abuse, brief suicidal ideation
Vex Eden found out a few months ago that she is Crimson Fury Pack's scent match, but the pack has made it clear time and time again that they want nothing to do with an omega. The problem is, that Vex is under the influence of a dark bond, a bond that allows her alpha to make her do anything he wants, and he wants her to pretend she’s a beta, and make them fall in love with her so he can have leverage over the Crimson Fury pack when he takes Vex back.
This book reminded me of the Pack Darling duology, while also being completely different in the execution and plot. There is a similar vibe to both books, with an omega having to hide some secrets about herself, and living with alphas that don’t exactly want her around. The end is also full of angst, and I am so glad that the second book of this duology is already out so I can start it right away. This book ranks right at the top of the ABO I’ve read next to Pack Darling… I couldn’t say which one I liked most.
The author also extended the usual ABO worldbuilding, adding the Gold Pack omegas; omegas that didn’t register with the government to get their injection, thus living outside of their protection (but that also means that they don't have the same restrictions when it comes to following bond/pack rules). There are also 3 types of bites/bonds in this series, the regular mate bond, the dark bond where the alpha has complete power over the omega, and the princess bond, where the omega is at the center of the bond and “rules” the pack.
Vex is strong, driven, and determined, and I love how resilient she is. She’s had a shitty life, and it only got worse in the past few months, but she still manages to get up every morning and try her best to enjoy her time with Drake and build bonds with the other alphas. She is quick and even snarky when dealing with the alphas, but that’s just what they need, and it shows that she still has spirit and spunk. She is also proud and impulsive when she’s emotional, which got her into trouble more than once, but it added even more angst to the book so I really can’t complain about that (#angstaddict).
Vex was a great main character, and all four of the alphas were very interesting as well, even if some were less likable. They all have depth and layers, and I loved how we discovered new facets of them throughout the book.
Dear Rook: You were supposed to be better.
Rook Harrison
Playboy.
Arrogant.
Vain.
Rook is not used to women not wanting to sleep with him, and he doesn’t like that Vex can resist him, even worse, that she threatened him and humiliated him in front of the other alphas. He starts as a rude alpha-jerk, and we can see that he loves to push others’ buttons, especially Ebony’s, but we can also see that his desire to get revenge on Vex for her rejection turns into an interest in her, and a desire to know her more and develop a saner relationship with her even.
Dear Love: The harder I try, the more I disgust you. I will never be enough.
Love Hightower
Control.
Leader.
Sacrifice.
Love is the pack leader, trying to hold his pack together, while also managing his brother Ebony’s psychopath tendencies. Love is used to his brother ruining everything meaningful, so he tries to stay away from Vex and ignore the attraction he feels for her because he knows that if he shows interest, his brother will destroy whatever they have, and most probably hurt Vex while doing so. Honestly, he was a little bland compared to the three other alphas, but that’s simply because the others are so intense, not because Love is boring. I am curious to see him lead the pack in the next book as they will need to grovel BIG TIME if they hope to get Vex back and earn her forgiveness.
Dear Ebony: I thought when I got here, I’d feel safe at last. But you make me afraid.
Ebony Starless
Psychopath.
Intense.
Cunning.
If you read the Pack Darling series, you could compare Ebony to Finn, except Ebony is even darker than Finn I think. Ebony is a diagnosed psychopath. He is cold, cunning, and does not feel emotions. For him, it’s all about winning or losing, and every once in a while about protecting what he considers “his”. He’s scary because he remains in total control of himself, and since there are chapters from his point of view, we can see how he mimics emotions to get what he wants. He says what he knows the others want to hear and pretends to feel, but truly he doesn’t feel much, and that is even scarier than an impulsive violent guy like Finn Wyvern. Despite his scary side, I like how he decided that Vex was “his” near the end and ended up wanting to keep her and protect her. It might not be because he feels any attachment to her, but at least he’s willing to fight for her, and she needs that.
Dear Drake: Please don’t leave me. I can’t do this without you.
Drake Jaccard
Cinnamon roll with extra icing.
Scarred.
Sweet.
OMG. I love Drake so much! He was the sweetest of them all, and he balanced the others’ shittiness and utterly despicable attitude. He needed Vex’s sweetness as much as she needed his, and it was wholesome to see them heal a little bit from their past trauma together. I liked all of the alphas because I do think that they will all be able to bring something to Vex eventually, but there is no competition as to who is my #1. Drake stole the spot from the very beginning. That being said, he might be my favorite, but I still think that Ebony is the more intriguing one, and I am really curious about his special bond with Drake.
“Let me be crystal clear, Vex,” he said, eyes icy. “I didn’t hire you because you were competent. I hired you because you’re unconventional, and that happens to be what Ebony needs. Don’t conflate my signature with interest. I find you nothing more than an eyesore and an annoyance.”
There is so much manipulation and lies in the Crimson Fury pack, it’s unbelievable. They are so dysfunctional. Add to that an omega pretending to be a beta, hellbent on seducing them even though they don’t ever want to form a bond with an omega, and it’s a winning recipe for a lot of explosive and angsty situations.
Seriously, I am obsessed with this book, and if it wasn't for my baby needing me to care for him, and me being horribly sleep-deprived for the past 6 months, I would have spent the whole night up reading the sequel. 😅
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November 26, 2023
This one surprised the fuck outta me. I wasn't expecting to read something so good. I'm completely obsessed. This book consumed all the hours in my day until I could go back to it. It's been a long time since a story grabbed me by the throat the way this one just did.
I know we all collectively decided Pack Darling was peak OV but like, not to be controversial but... in my own opinion... this one was better? Same or similar trope, completely different execution. I loved Pack Darling Part 1 but my fucking god, this book just raw dogged me into madness. It is that good!
Something that fascinated me was how well crafted these characters were. Usually in a Why Choose with 4 guys, at least one of them is barely sketched, personality wise. Simply because the author didn't have enough time to focus on all of them, plus the romance. But in this book, we get to know the four Alphas really well. And the more we discover, the more we find layered, complex characters. Each with their own agenda, traumas and personalities. It was so interesting to discover each of them.
Vex is one of the best female omegas I've ever read. She was so resilient and strong, and her pride and stubbornness got her into trouble a few times but I just loved her for it even more. She was so witted and quick minded when it came to keeping up with her Alphas and their challenges. I absolutely fell for her along those idiots. She was impossible to resist. She deserves the whole world and I can’t wait to read her achieving her HEA!!
The bad guy(s) in this one are really sinister. Check TW because this one was darker than most OV I’ve read in the last couple of years. The concept of a Dark Bond and how an Alpha could control an Omega against her will was terrifying to me. And seeing poor Vex trying to resist some of those terrible commands and ultimately failing, broke me. I need these assholes to pay in the next book. Death won’t be enough to satisfy me, I need them to suffer first.
Ebony, the diagnosed psychopath, was my favorite. Who’s even surprised at this point. But he was such an interesting character, not because he was a psychopath, but because the way he rationalized things, the way he worked to understand emotions, and how fucking smart he was… that was hot to me. And when he became utterly OB-SE-SSED with Vex? Oh yeah, give it to me. His possessiveness and the way he wouldn’t give two flying fucks about destroying the whole world for her… That’s the kind of Alpha I wanna read about.
Rook, the arrogant playboy, who never cared about anyone before, and who hated how Vex managed to resist him while he was falling for her… Their hate sex was the hottest thing ever. I lost my shit when she threw his precious trophy out the window. That scene was priceless. Or when he wanted to ask for selfies together without sounding pathetic. Baby Boy got it bad. But my favorite scene probably was when she kicked him in the balls and threatened him with a spoon. Pure poetic cinema. And he deserved it, too.
Love, pack leader and always in control. I found it so ironic how the character named Love had spent his whole life looking for just that, love. And all he had found was heartache and betrayal. So he had closed himself off to the idea of love ever again. Until Vex tore down all his walls and pretty much destroyed his calculated peace. Something inside me kinda died when I realized Vex was acting the same way with Love than she did (forced) by her dark bond alphahole. That really hit home for some reason, and I can’t wait to see how Love takes it.
Drake was the kind soul balancing everyone else’s darkness. His intimacy with Vex made me melt. And his past traumas broke my heart. I loved how he basically became her best friend, and even when he couldn’t have sex because of his trauma, he found solace and comfort in their intimacy and even felt desire for the first time. Drake was just the sweetest cinnamon roll and he must be protected at all costs.
The relationship between Ebony and Drake fascinated me so much. It wasn’t romantic or sexual, but they shared the strongest and most emotional bond among the pack. I thought the way this book explains bonds and their connections was so interesting.
The relationship between brothers Love and Ebony had me grinning like a lunatic. I’ve never seen a more dysfunctional pair of siblings in my life. And that’s why they were so interesting to read. My favorite part was when each of them told the same story and it was completely different lol They’ve been playing a game of manipulation and deceit for so long, they’ve lost themselves in the midst of it.
I can't concentrate on this review when all I wanna do is to keep reading Part 2.
I know we all collectively decided Pack Darling was peak OV but like, not to be controversial but... in my own opinion... this one was better? Same or similar trope, completely different execution. I loved Pack Darling Part 1 but my fucking god, this book just raw dogged me into madness. It is that good!
Something that fascinated me was how well crafted these characters were. Usually in a Why Choose with 4 guys, at least one of them is barely sketched, personality wise. Simply because the author didn't have enough time to focus on all of them, plus the romance. But in this book, we get to know the four Alphas really well. And the more we discover, the more we find layered, complex characters. Each with their own agenda, traumas and personalities. It was so interesting to discover each of them.
Vex is one of the best female omegas I've ever read. She was so resilient and strong, and her pride and stubbornness got her into trouble a few times but I just loved her for it even more. She was so witted and quick minded when it came to keeping up with her Alphas and their challenges. I absolutely fell for her along those idiots. She was impossible to resist. She deserves the whole world and I can’t wait to read her achieving her HEA!!
The bad guy(s) in this one are really sinister. Check TW because this one was darker than most OV I’ve read in the last couple of years. The concept of a Dark Bond and how an Alpha could control an Omega against her will was terrifying to me. And seeing poor Vex trying to resist some of those terrible commands and ultimately failing, broke me. I need these assholes to pay in the next book. Death won’t be enough to satisfy me, I need them to suffer first.
Ebony, the diagnosed psychopath, was my favorite. Who’s even surprised at this point. But he was such an interesting character, not because he was a psychopath, but because the way he rationalized things, the way he worked to understand emotions, and how fucking smart he was… that was hot to me. And when he became utterly OB-SE-SSED with Vex? Oh yeah, give it to me. His possessiveness and the way he wouldn’t give two flying fucks about destroying the whole world for her… That’s the kind of Alpha I wanna read about.
Rook, the arrogant playboy, who never cared about anyone before, and who hated how Vex managed to resist him while he was falling for her… Their hate sex was the hottest thing ever. I lost my shit when she threw his precious trophy out the window. That scene was priceless. Or when he wanted to ask for selfies together without sounding pathetic. Baby Boy got it bad. But my favorite scene probably was when she kicked him in the balls and threatened him with a spoon. Pure poetic cinema. And he deserved it, too.
Love, pack leader and always in control. I found it so ironic how the character named Love had spent his whole life looking for just that, love. And all he had found was heartache and betrayal. So he had closed himself off to the idea of love ever again. Until Vex tore down all his walls and pretty much destroyed his calculated peace. Something inside me kinda died when I realized Vex was acting the same way with Love than she did (forced) by her dark bond alphahole. That really hit home for some reason, and I can’t wait to see how Love takes it.
Drake was the kind soul balancing everyone else’s darkness. His intimacy with Vex made me melt. And his past traumas broke my heart. I loved how he basically became her best friend, and even when he couldn’t have sex because of his trauma, he found solace and comfort in their intimacy and even felt desire for the first time. Drake was just the sweetest cinnamon roll and he must be protected at all costs.
The relationship between Ebony and Drake fascinated me so much. It wasn’t romantic or sexual, but they shared the strongest and most emotional bond among the pack. I thought the way this book explains bonds and their connections was so interesting.
The relationship between brothers Love and Ebony had me grinning like a lunatic. I’ve never seen a more dysfunctional pair of siblings in my life. And that’s why they were so interesting to read. My favorite part was when each of them told the same story and it was completely different lol They’ve been playing a game of manipulation and deceit for so long, they’ve lost themselves in the midst of it.
I can't concentrate on this review when all I wanna do is to keep reading Part 2.
November 25, 2023
This book wasn't it for me. The premise was interesting enough, but I thought the world-building was overly complicated, and I couldn't warm to the fmc or any of the love interests at all. There was also endless amounts of internal monologue that had me skim-reading from around 25 per cent.
September 28, 2024
The last half saved this book for me. There was insta lust right away and forced hatred from the MMCs which left me feeling zero connection to the characters. After a rocky start they did find their footing in the dynamics and I started to get invested in what was happening.
This would have been four stars for me but the writing style wasn’t my favourite and there were way too many physical descriptions. Some of the physical features were not my favourite choice but that’s fine, I can change that in my head but I could not get behind all the outfit descriptions. I’m sorry, but it doesn’t matter if it’s supposed to be the cutest outfit ever, my annoying brain will automatically go to the cringiest outfit I can come up with. Like one MMC wears a dress shirt and white jeans and in my head they’re going to be the douchiest, tightest pair of skinny jeans I can imagine and I can’t forget it either.
I was curious to see how this would blow up in the end and I’m pretty happy with the choice. I could actually feel the emotion from them and it makes me NEED to jump into the next one right now.
This would have been four stars for me but the writing style wasn’t my favourite and there were way too many physical descriptions. Some of the physical features were not my favourite choice but that’s fine, I can change that in my head but I could not get behind all the outfit descriptions. I’m sorry, but it doesn’t matter if it’s supposed to be the cutest outfit ever, my annoying brain will automatically go to the cringiest outfit I can come up with. Like one MMC wears a dress shirt and white jeans and in my head they’re going to be the douchiest, tightest pair of skinny jeans I can imagine and I can’t forget it either.
I was curious to see how this would blow up in the end and I’m pretty happy with the choice. I could actually feel the emotion from them and it makes me NEED to jump into the next one right now.
November 30, 2023
Dnf around 40%
Tedious to read. Confusing and convoluted storytelling.
Tedious to read. Confusing and convoluted storytelling.
September 13, 2023
Oh my gosh. MARIE MACKAY I NEED PART TWO NOW!!!
This had me in a chokehold. Ididn't couldn't put this down while I was reading it.
You know what I love? Omegaverse. But when it's a reverse harem bully situation with a colorful cast of characters? And one of the alphas is a bit of a psychopath? And the alphas don't know the FMC is an omega and their scent match?! Sold. Done. I'm a goner.
Vex finds out that she's the Crimson Fury Pack's scent match, their fated omega mate, but here's the catch: they don't want an omega . So what does one do when they find out something they can't tell anyone else? She makes a post on reddit that swiftly leads to her being abducted and forced to masquerade as a beta to get the Crimson Fury Pack to fall for her.
There's the forced proximity of the circumstance, angst from the hidden identity, mystery from her captors, and all the delectable tension that arises when the guys' alpha instincts are constantly drawn to the supposed beta in their home.
I thought the story was well done, and honestly the best work I've read from this author so far. Although I do think the writing was a little inconsistent, but not enough to detract from how much I enjoyed this.
The PoisonVerse is unlike any other omegaverse I've read to date. The lore and world is different in that there are regular omegas and gold pack omegas as well as three different bonding bites to say the least. This wasn't my first foray into this world so I was already familiar with the mechanics. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend reading Havoc Killed Her Alpha for an intro in the PV world (and also for some context for the cameos!)
Did I mention there's even a fun Easter egg moment where my all time fave OV Pack Darling: Part One is mentioned?
Overall, I devoured this and I'll be waiting with bated breath for part two to drop. I'll probably need to call out sick to binge the heck out of it.
Rating: 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from the author however all thoughts are my own
This had me in a chokehold. I
You know what I love? Omegaverse. But when it's a reverse harem bully situation with a colorful cast of characters? And one of the alphas is a bit of a psychopath? And the alphas don't know the FMC is an omega and their scent match?! Sold. Done. I'm a goner.
Vex finds out that she's the Crimson Fury Pack's scent match, their fated omega mate, but here's the catch: they don't want an omega . So what does one do when they find out something they can't tell anyone else? She makes a post on reddit that swiftly leads to her being abducted and forced to masquerade as a beta to get the Crimson Fury Pack to fall for her.
There's the forced proximity of the circumstance, angst from the hidden identity, mystery from her captors, and all the delectable tension that arises when the guys' alpha instincts are constantly drawn to the supposed beta in their home.
I thought the story was well done, and honestly the best work I've read from this author so far. Although I do think the writing was a little inconsistent, but not enough to detract from how much I enjoyed this.
The PoisonVerse is unlike any other omegaverse I've read to date. The lore and world is different in that there are regular omegas and gold pack omegas as well as three different bonding bites to say the least. This wasn't my first foray into this world so I was already familiar with the mechanics. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend reading Havoc Killed Her Alpha for an intro in the PV world (and also for some context for the cameos!)
Did I mention there's even a fun Easter egg moment where my all time fave OV Pack Darling: Part One is mentioned?
Overall, I devoured this and I'll be waiting with bated breath for part two to drop. I'll probably need to call out sick to binge the heck out of it.
Rating: 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from the author however all thoughts are my own
September 17, 2023
the lilah darling book 1 barrel ending scene’s impact to society need to be studied and stopped RIGHT NOW
March 18, 2024
This was a bit long, but it was good. I'm a bit torn between 3 and 4 stars. I got bored at times because there was sooo much internal monologue. Overall, I won't read it again probably, but I enjoyed it.
I hated this world-building (the diff types of bonds, the rogues, the gold packs, etc.) in Havoc Killed Her Alpha, but I didn't mind it as much in this book. I still don't like it, but maybe I'm just used to it now.
The story itself follows almost the exact same formula as Pack Darling: Part 1, although the character circumstances are different enough. This is especially funny because the characters literally talk about the book Pack Darling at one point (in this book, Pack Darling is a hit that is being adapted into a movie). It was a little cringey and felt a bit meta (in a bad way imo).
I think Part 2 will be a lot better now that the guys FINALLY know the truth. It took them too long to get there, but again, that's exactly how Pack Darling Part 1 ends too.
I hated this world-building (the diff types of bonds, the rogues, the gold packs, etc.) in Havoc Killed Her Alpha, but I didn't mind it as much in this book. I still don't like it, but maybe I'm just used to it now.
The story itself follows almost the exact same formula as Pack Darling: Part 1, although the character circumstances are different enough. This is especially funny because the characters literally talk about the book Pack Darling at one point (in this book, Pack Darling is a hit that is being adapted into a movie). It was a little cringey and felt a bit meta (in a bad way imo).
I think Part 2 will be a lot better now that the guys FINALLY know the truth. It took them too long to get there, but again, that's exactly how Pack Darling Part 1 ends too.
November 18, 2023
DNF
Did not connect with this book, there is way too much internal dialogue. I started skipping at 12% that's not good, the repetition just got annoying. I liked the different context/take on omegas but the storytelling let the whole thing down.
Did not connect with this book, there is way too much internal dialogue. I started skipping at 12% that's not good, the repetition just got annoying. I liked the different context/take on omegas but the storytelling let the whole thing down.
July 26, 2024
Solid. But I would never forgive the author for naming two of the heroes
Ebony Starless
and
Love Hightower.
They're famous so apparently those are just stage names but it's even more of an ick that they picked those names all on their own. And then to later discover that Love's real name was fucking Justin? JUSTIN? Jail. JAIL
I'd just like to say that this is the first Omegaverse I've read after Pack Darling that I think is the most similar to PD, in terms of quality and overall vibes. Plot is different, which is good!! We want that. But if you're in a PD hangover and have been duped by some of the most suggested titles (cough Lola and The Millionaires cough) you might like this one.
Book was decent but a little too confusing at times. So much angst but not enough context. And for the love of god stop focusing on Vex's captivity. Briefly describing her time as a captive once in a while would've been just fine.
Hated her whole arc with Drake. Shit's an instalove, instalust mess that belongs in the trash. Sorry.
And was the bullying in the room with us?? Because those guys wanted to fuck her the minute they saw her..... they just forced themselves to reject her because of whatever bullshit they had going on. But let's make a drinking game for every time the guys say " Vex is different " in their inner thoughts.
They were "bullying" her alright but they felt bad the whooooole time. Which pissed me off a bit because this made Ebony, the diagnosed psychopath, my favorite out of all the guys because he was the only one was who was actually *kinda* mean. (because he's an actual psychopath)
And it hurts my pride that my favorite character is goddamn Ebony out of all people 😒
And my second favorite is Rook. Because he reminds me of Finn. From PD.
Anyways constant POV switching was also getting on my nerves a little bit because *gasp* I hate short chapters. I'm an anomaly. I want my long chapters 😩 and also was getting sick of one of the hero's name being Love and the *I assume* cheap attempt at... what, irony? Poetry? Every time the fmc, Vex, say something like "kneel for Love" or "failing for Love" when talking about the mmc. I get it, his name is Love and he's scared of love and all she wants is love from her Love. ENOUGHHHHHHHHHH 😭😭😭
The dark bond/blackmail thing also didn't make sense to me, maybe because it's supposed to be explained in book two, or maybe I'm just too stupid to understand. I guess we'll see after I finish the next book lol
Also the gut punch wasn't really punching. I did not feel a single damn thing when it happened. I thought it was out of character for Love and the rest of the guys didn't really fuck up. I was hoping they would do something almost unforgivable so the grovel would hit but ehhhh.
Overall, the book was not actually that bad. I actually enjoyed my time. My expectations were just a little too high I guess. I'm new to omegaverse and it's been real hard finding decently written omegaverse.
I'd just like to say that this is the first Omegaverse I've read after Pack Darling that I think is the most similar to PD, in terms of quality and overall vibes. Plot is different, which is good!! We want that. But if you're in a PD hangover and have been duped by some of the most suggested titles (cough Lola and The Millionaires cough) you might like this one.
Book was decent but a little too confusing at times. So much angst but not enough context. And for the love of god stop focusing on Vex's captivity. Briefly describing her time as a captive once in a while would've been just fine.
Hated her whole arc with Drake. Shit's an instalove, instalust mess that belongs in the trash. Sorry.
And was the bullying in the room with us?? Because those guys wanted to fuck her the minute they saw her..... they just forced themselves to reject her because of whatever bullshit they had going on. But let's make a drinking game for every time the guys say " Vex is different " in their inner thoughts.
They were "bullying" her alright but they felt bad the whooooole time. Which pissed me off a bit because this made Ebony, the diagnosed psychopath, my favorite out of all the guys because he was the only one was who was actually *kinda* mean. (because he's an actual psychopath)
And it hurts my pride that my favorite character is goddamn Ebony out of all people 😒
And my second favorite is Rook. Because he reminds me of Finn. From PD.
Anyways constant POV switching was also getting on my nerves a little bit because *gasp* I hate short chapters. I'm an anomaly. I want my long chapters 😩 and also was getting sick of one of the hero's name being Love and the *I assume* cheap attempt at... what, irony? Poetry? Every time the fmc, Vex, say something like "kneel for Love" or "failing for Love" when talking about the mmc. I get it, his name is Love and he's scared of love and all she wants is love from her Love. ENOUGHHHHHHHHHH 😭😭😭
The dark bond/blackmail thing also didn't make sense to me, maybe because it's supposed to be explained in book two, or maybe I'm just too stupid to understand. I guess we'll see after I finish the next book lol
Also the gut punch wasn't really punching. I did not feel a single damn thing when it happened. I thought it was out of character for Love and the rest of the guys didn't really fuck up. I was hoping they would do something almost unforgivable so the grovel would hit but ehhhh.
Overall, the book was not actually that bad. I actually enjoyed my time. My expectations were just a little too high I guess. I'm new to omegaverse and it's been real hard finding decently written omegaverse.
October 7, 2024
I am not normally a fan of bully romance but I love this author's writing and I just am enthralled with the story. I really don't understand it because three out of four of her mates are really terrible to her and don't seem to be great people in general. But I'm kind of still there for it!?
I don't have the next book from the library but I really want to read it! I am super tempted just to buy it or subscribe to Everand. Ugh.
I don't have the next book from the library but I really want to read it! I am super tempted just to buy it or subscribe to Everand. Ugh.
November 14, 2023
Like the premise. Though style of writing is hard to get past. There is something about the way things are worded that makes it hard to read. The story is pretty interesting, the characters are prepped for much groveling needed which I did like. Quite curious about what the secret trade is. Will give part 2 a chance with the promise of groveling and redemption.
May 12, 2026
This is one of those books where you go into it knowing it's going to be good but then it turns out even better than good and the ending makes you say holy shit even though you kind of guessed the ending but still couldn't believe it??
October 31, 2024
Sweetheart:Part One
My original review is below. My reread review is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.2. Love this god damn duology. SO FUCKING GOOD BABY. Can’t wait to reread the second. Also I love my girl and I love drake
⭐️⭐️⭐️.8
Okay this is crazy cause when I started this I honestly didn’t like it HAHA. Like I straight up was like this is shit. And then I progressively liked it MORE AND MORE AND MORE and more. Kept me fucking captivated omgod. Stop I love her and drake so much they are so cute. The END WAS SO GOOD SHIT IS ABOUT TO GO FUCKING BONKERSSSSSSSSS!!!! I was so hyped when ebony went bonkers. I love my men either like drake or fucking feral. I hope she gives Love and Rook hell but especially Love for what he said to her at the end and AND ALSO EBONY FOR THE STORM SHIT. But yes I ended up loving this and I’m so hyped for the next book. I like vex and I feel for her. I want a deep dive into her background and I want all the juicy details. I want more on all these men. Tell me why pack lead is like always my least fav alpha lol. THE PACK DARLING REFERENCES MADE MY LIFE. THE LAYLA DROP AND THE FINN AND ORION DROPS MY BBBBz. Anyways this is what I was chasing again for an omegaverse. So excited for the stakes and to see what happens. I knew Alastor was Zane or whatever at the party just based off initial reaction and then onto the pictures elevated that. BUT IM HYPED FOR THE NEXT ONE PERIOD. Also the lil smut scene was drake and the one with rook were both so hot even tho it wasn’t a lot it was so fucking hot
My original review is below. My reread review is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.2. Love this god damn duology. SO FUCKING GOOD BABY. Can’t wait to reread the second. Also I love my girl and I love drake
⭐️⭐️⭐️.8
Okay this is crazy cause when I started this I honestly didn’t like it HAHA. Like I straight up was like this is shit. And then I progressively liked it MORE AND MORE AND MORE and more. Kept me fucking captivated omgod. Stop I love her and drake so much they are so cute. The END WAS SO GOOD SHIT IS ABOUT TO GO FUCKING BONKERSSSSSSSSS!!!! I was so hyped when ebony went bonkers. I love my men either like drake or fucking feral. I hope she gives Love and Rook hell but especially Love for what he said to her at the end and AND ALSO EBONY FOR THE STORM SHIT. But yes I ended up loving this and I’m so hyped for the next book. I like vex and I feel for her. I want a deep dive into her background and I want all the juicy details. I want more on all these men. Tell me why pack lead is like always my least fav alpha lol. THE PACK DARLING REFERENCES MADE MY LIFE. THE LAYLA DROP AND THE FINN AND ORION DROPS MY BBBBz. Anyways this is what I was chasing again for an omegaverse. So excited for the stakes and to see what happens. I knew Alastor was Zane or whatever at the party just based off initial reaction and then onto the pictures elevated that. BUT IM HYPED FOR THE NEXT ONE PERIOD. Also the lil smut scene was drake and the one with rook were both so hot even tho it wasn’t a lot it was so fucking hot
December 4, 2023
it was okay?
not fantastic, not great, just meh
i loved Ebony tho😭
not fantastic, not great, just meh
i loved Ebony tho😭
January 12, 2025
I just don’t care.
September 18, 2024
it was a litttle hard to read,as in it didn't flow very well and every chapter or so i would get distracted by phne or anything honestly and it was a little bit too long.
anyway it was fun not as good as pack darling though i liked some changes that this had,the writing really took me out.
i'm ready for the grovel to begin tho....so on to the next we go!🫠
ps.i forgot to say i didn't have much problem with the names(i have seen way worse ones)and i liked vex i understood why she did everything she did and even though the dudes(other than drake) are assholes i liked them,i loved how each of them had a different realationship with vex and why,the lore was also very good too.👍
anyway it was fun not as good as pack darling though i liked some changes that this had,the writing really took me out.
i'm ready for the grovel to begin tho....so on to the next we go!🫠
ps.i forgot to say i didn't have much problem with the names(i have seen way worse ones)and i liked vex i understood why she did everything she did and even though the dudes(other than drake) are assholes i liked them,i loved how each of them had a different realationship with vex and why,the lore was also very good too.👍
February 7, 2024
Ok but not exceptional. Tons hard to find a orignal and well written omegaverse.
November 20, 2023
3.5 rounded up! I enjoyed this but this was misleading, I was expecting some Pack Darling type bullying and all these guys were simpering for her immediately??
September 3, 2025
Unfortunately, this wasn't for me. It felt overly dramatic and I didn't understand any of the characters. They felt angsty and heavy with self loathing to an unreasonable extent. I also didn't believe the bonds in the pack. They barely had an on page chemistry and they shut down the bonds every second page so I couldn't get behind them being packmates at all. I won't be continuing. Audiobook wasn't bad though, I'd recommend it.
February 13, 2026
okay this was teaa
so it was VERY similar to pack darling, the ending just wasn’t as devastating on the men end. i found that i liked lilah’s inner dialogue more, but i still really respect vex’s tenacity. the thought of a dark bond is actually terrifying. that poor girl.
i really did fly threw this, and i’ve been been on an OV kick recently, but most of the time the books are kinda the same. if anyone has any OV recs that are unique and deliciousss… hit me up please 😊
aside from that, i enjoyed this thoroughly and am looking forward to GROVELINGGG in the next one. love a good grovel. i’m praying that these douche canoes that vex is stuck with don’t have the chance to harm her before her psycho prince charmings come back because that’ll be a tough read. i LOVE drake and ebony. love fell a little flat, but the mature, no personality character always does for me so that’s not a surprise. it’s also not a book issue, it’s a me issue. i’ve always found the quiet in charge types boring so if that’s your cup of tea.. yay! i’m hoping rook redeems himself next because the thought was there.. the execution..was not. this guy was really pissed that he found vex hot. it’s not her fault she’s got it going on bro. he switched up so fast it made my head hurt BUT, i have high hopes for him.
onto the next 😘
so it was VERY similar to pack darling, the ending just wasn’t as devastating on the men end. i found that i liked lilah’s inner dialogue more, but i still really respect vex’s tenacity. the thought of a dark bond is actually terrifying. that poor girl.
i really did fly threw this, and i’ve been been on an OV kick recently, but most of the time the books are kinda the same. if anyone has any OV recs that are unique and deliciousss… hit me up please 😊
aside from that, i enjoyed this thoroughly and am looking forward to GROVELINGGG in the next one. love a good grovel. i’m praying that these douche canoes that vex is stuck with don’t have the chance to harm her before her psycho prince charmings come back because that’ll be a tough read. i LOVE drake and ebony. love fell a little flat, but the mature, no personality character always does for me so that’s not a surprise. it’s also not a book issue, it’s a me issue. i’ve always found the quiet in charge types boring so if that’s your cup of tea.. yay! i’m hoping rook redeems himself next because the thought was there.. the execution..was not. this guy was really pissed that he found vex hot. it’s not her fault she’s got it going on bro. he switched up so fast it made my head hurt BUT, i have high hopes for him.
onto the next 😘
December 5, 2023
Despite a bit of a clunky start, I ended up really enjoying this book. The angst hooked me immediately and as I roasted over the firey flames of Vex's pain and her alpha's disdain, I couldn't put it down. Thinking back- If this is your first Poisonverse novel, you might not find any issues with the beginning at all- I can see how the author is trying to revisit the rules of this world so that this duet can be a true standalone. Still- it could have been strengthened/shortened so we could get to the good stuff sooner.
Also I can't decide if I love the overt reference to Pack Darling or hate it lol. Knowing these authors are friends makes it better.
CW front of book
Tropes/Tags:
bully romance, why choose omegaverse, celebrity romance, angst, traumatic past, psychopathic hero,
Also I can't decide if I love the overt reference to Pack Darling or hate it lol. Knowing these authors are friends makes it better.
CW front of book
Tropes/Tags:
bully romance, why choose omegaverse, celebrity romance, angst, traumatic past, psychopathic hero,
September 9, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dear Love: I think it’s worse that for a moment I believed. Without the truth, without the scent match, for a second, you convinced me I might just be enough.
I am absolutely wrecked after that ending! I loved this book so much, but damn… my heart is aching right now. If you are a glutton for punishment, you will love this book just as much as me.
Every Marie Mackay omegaverse has been an emotional hit. She writes angst like no other. I hurt alongside the characters. My heart breaks as if it is theirs. This book was no different. I felt (and am still feeling several days later) the FMC, Vex’s anguish, her heartbreak, and her loss.
She is a tragic character. She has been forced into the presence of her scent-matched pack while hiding her status as an omega and, most importantly, her status as their mate. There are outside forces in control of her every move and threats from all sides. Bonds that were forced that require her compliance.
This book has heavy rejected-mates vibes, as the men are unaware that Vex is their scent match, so they do not treat her as they should. Some are outright hostile to her, bullying and mistreating her; some ambivalent, and only one gives her any positive attention. My heart was constantly breaking as they tore her down, as she realized that they weren’t the men she always thought them to be. (Honestly, there better be a hell of a lot of groveling needed to get them back on my good side).
As in many bully romances, Part One is slow burn with little spice (though there are spicy moments). All interactions are MF.
This book has given me a massive hangover. I cannot wait for part two.
Highly recommended!
Genre: Contemporary Bully Omegaverse
Tropes/Features: dark elements, bully, hidden omega FMC, brothers, chosen family, arrogant celebrity pack, fated mates/scent matches, rejected mates vibes, psychopathic MMC, actors, HIGH angst, forced bonding and compliance
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: Why Choose MFMMM, slow burn, limited spice
Book Type/Ending: Part One of duet, Cliffhanger
TW/CW: Available in book
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dear Love: I think it’s worse that for a moment I believed. Without the truth, without the scent match, for a second, you convinced me I might just be enough.
I am absolutely wrecked after that ending! I loved this book so much, but damn… my heart is aching right now. If you are a glutton for punishment, you will love this book just as much as me.
Every Marie Mackay omegaverse has been an emotional hit. She writes angst like no other. I hurt alongside the characters. My heart breaks as if it is theirs. This book was no different. I felt (and am still feeling several days later) the FMC, Vex’s anguish, her heartbreak, and her loss.
She is a tragic character. She has been forced into the presence of her scent-matched pack while hiding her status as an omega and, most importantly, her status as their mate. There are outside forces in control of her every move and threats from all sides. Bonds that were forced that require her compliance.
This book has heavy rejected-mates vibes, as the men are unaware that Vex is their scent match, so they do not treat her as they should. Some are outright hostile to her, bullying and mistreating her; some ambivalent, and only one gives her any positive attention. My heart was constantly breaking as they tore her down, as she realized that they weren’t the men she always thought them to be. (Honestly, there better be a hell of a lot of groveling needed to get them back on my good side).
As in many bully romances, Part One is slow burn with little spice (though there are spicy moments). All interactions are MF.
This book has given me a massive hangover. I cannot wait for part two.
Highly recommended!
Genre: Contemporary Bully Omegaverse
Tropes/Features: dark elements, bully, hidden omega FMC, brothers, chosen family, arrogant celebrity pack, fated mates/scent matches, rejected mates vibes, psychopathic MMC, actors, HIGH angst, forced bonding and compliance
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: Why Choose MFMMM, slow burn, limited spice
Book Type/Ending: Part One of duet, Cliffhanger
TW/CW: Available in book
December 1, 2023
DNF
Had to ditch this at just over 30% - none of the characters were likeable the plot didnt really make sense ( why are they actors - and going online to cry about being their mate ?!!) it just seemed like a really bad dupe of pack darling which I LOVED - it’s rare that I don’t finish a book but this really was not for me
Had to ditch this at just over 30% - none of the characters were likeable the plot didnt really make sense ( why are they actors - and going online to cry about being their mate ?!!) it just seemed like a really bad dupe of pack darling which I LOVED - it’s rare that I don’t finish a book but this really was not for me
September 2, 2023
I absolutely love Marie Mackay's OV books. They have so many feelings that you get hooked in with the characters && a lot of action to keep you guessing. This book was no different. I can't wait to read the second part.
October 2, 2024
Mostly I skipped around in this book. There is a whole lot of trauma, not much spice, and more questions than answers.
Let me do an odd update.
I had no idea when I read Sweetheart that it was part of a much larger series - the PoisonVerse. While Sweetheart is the first book I read in the series what got me systematically reading was the NoirPoisonVerse - Shattered Omega parts 1, 2, and 3. While they are dark they aren't nightmare inducing dark. I very much enjoyed that series. I've also read His Gold Pack Omega by Miyo Hunter. That stand alone was not something I loved. I did enjoy the Havoc series and Pack of Lies. Eventually, I'll get back to the series. I might even revisit this book.
Let me do an odd update.
I had no idea when I read Sweetheart that it was part of a much larger series - the PoisonVerse. While Sweetheart is the first book I read in the series what got me systematically reading was the NoirPoisonVerse - Shattered Omega parts 1, 2, and 3. While they are dark they aren't nightmare inducing dark. I very much enjoyed that series. I've also read His Gold Pack Omega by Miyo Hunter. That stand alone was not something I loved. I did enjoy the Havoc series and Pack of Lies. Eventually, I'll get back to the series. I might even revisit this book.
September 23, 2024
Didn’t hold my interest. I skimmed most of it. Maybe I’ll like part 2 better?
January 18, 2025
3.75⭐️
November 8, 2025
I was confused the whole time.
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