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Fanged Mistakes #2
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates
Julian
When did fake-then-real dating an ancient vampire become the easy part?
Casimir’s ridiculously sweet now that he’s conquered “the art of the flirt,” as he calls it. He tries hard to fit in with my family—if we forget about those silly threatening chocolates he sent my father—and he even makes me popcorn… okay, he tried. I know, I know, I’m just bragging at this point.
Everything is perfect until we stumble upon a half-dead vampire who is being hunted by someone. And I’m afraid the person hunting him knows all about Casimir’s history. Casimir has fought so hard to drive the darkness away, but we both know that he needs to bury his past… one last time.
Casimir
I never saw myself in a relationship, let alone with a pesky werewolf. He’s funny and sweet, has questionable friends, and phenomenal taste in dog bandanas. After five hundred years, I think I’ve finally convinced myself that I deserve this.
However, someone else isn’t quite certain I do. Julian has assured me that it’s time to move forward, but when there’s a masked man waiting in the shadows for me, I find it hard to ignore my past mistakes.
But I have something I didn’t have the last time I faced him.
Someone who loves me.
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates has a cheerful werewolf who seems to have an aversion to clothes; a vampire leader who overuses speedy delivery services; board games with a little too much exhibitionism; and animals that are too cute to be eaten.
When did fake-then-real dating an ancient vampire become the easy part?
Casimir’s ridiculously sweet now that he’s conquered “the art of the flirt,” as he calls it. He tries hard to fit in with my family—if we forget about those silly threatening chocolates he sent my father—and he even makes me popcorn… okay, he tried. I know, I know, I’m just bragging at this point.
Everything is perfect until we stumble upon a half-dead vampire who is being hunted by someone. And I’m afraid the person hunting him knows all about Casimir’s history. Casimir has fought so hard to drive the darkness away, but we both know that he needs to bury his past… one last time.
Casimir
I never saw myself in a relationship, let alone with a pesky werewolf. He’s funny and sweet, has questionable friends, and phenomenal taste in dog bandanas. After five hundred years, I think I’ve finally convinced myself that I deserve this.
However, someone else isn’t quite certain I do. Julian has assured me that it’s time to move forward, but when there’s a masked man waiting in the shadows for me, I find it hard to ignore my past mistakes.
But I have something I didn’t have the last time I faced him.
Someone who loves me.
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates has a cheerful werewolf who seems to have an aversion to clothes; a vampire leader who overuses speedy delivery services; board games with a little too much exhibitionism; and animals that are too cute to be eaten.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2024
362 people are currently reading
417 people want to read
About the author
Alice Winters
62 books2,754 followersAlice Winters started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to turn her ideas into written words. She loves writing a variety of things from romance and comedy to action. She also enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
February 11, 2025
✅ Banter and silly situations
✅ Some M/M smut
✅ Vampires and werewolves
✅ Pace
✅ 2 POVs
✅(🆗) Predictable plot
🆗 Flashbacks
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: deaths and blood
It was not bad, but it was not as good as I had hoped either. I think it's the predictability of the plot and the flashbacks that made it harder for me to get into this book.
Things are going well for Casimir and Julian, and relationships between wolves and vampires are slowly getting better, but of course, things can’t run smoothly forever. When a mysterious vampire from Casimir’s past reemerges and is dead set on ruining Casimir’s life, the gang needs to figure out who they are and how to stop them before they kill more innocent people.
There were some twists and betrayals in this sequel, but overall, I found the plot to be quite predictable. I was not surprised by anything that happened and found myself being a little annoyed that everything happened just like I thought it would. It would have been nice to be surprised more by some turn of events.
New characters were introduced, but they lacked development, personality, and depth overall. Delwyn was mostly a tool to make the plot progress, and I didn’t care about him at all, and Cecily just seemed to be very gullible and, dare I say, dumb. Especially considering her age. The “villain” was the typical bad guy out for revenge, even if what happened to send him on his quest to destroy Casimit happened centuries ago, and I am left to wonder how on Earth he managed to hold onto his hatred for so long, and why he waited so long to act.
Casimir’s mysterious past was finally revealed, but it was mostly shown through flashbacks, and I sadly struggle with flashbacks so I can’t say that I was super involved in discovering his past, but that’s because of me and my reading preferences, not because it was badly done.
I usually enjoy Alice Winters’ brand of silly humor very much, but somehow the delivery was not as good in this book. Some jokes or situations felt very similar to scenes from her previous books, and even the vibe of the group feels more and more similar to the VRC gang and Leeland’s group. I think I will take a little break from her books so I can enjoy the next one more. As I said in my review of the first book, she never fails to make me smile, but I can’t read too many of her books back to back because, after a while, the dynamic, jokes, and characters all start to feel the same.
The next book of the series will follow Ezio and Cyrus, and I will read it for sure, because I like both characters, but mostly, because I am curious to know what Cyrus is, or what special abilities he has. The dude is not 100% human, that’s for sure.
1. Fake Dates and Fanged Mistakes ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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✅ Some M/M smut
✅ Vampires and werewolves
✅ Pace
✅ 2 POVs
✅(🆗) Predictable plot
🆗 Flashbacks
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: deaths and blood
It was not bad, but it was not as good as I had hoped either. I think it's the predictability of the plot and the flashbacks that made it harder for me to get into this book.
Things are going well for Casimir and Julian, and relationships between wolves and vampires are slowly getting better, but of course, things can’t run smoothly forever. When a mysterious vampire from Casimir’s past reemerges and is dead set on ruining Casimir’s life, the gang needs to figure out who they are and how to stop them before they kill more innocent people.
There were some twists and betrayals in this sequel, but overall, I found the plot to be quite predictable. I was not surprised by anything that happened and found myself being a little annoyed that everything happened just like I thought it would. It would have been nice to be surprised more by some turn of events.
New characters were introduced, but they lacked development, personality, and depth overall. Delwyn was mostly a tool to make the plot progress, and I didn’t care about him at all, and Cecily just seemed to be very gullible and, dare I say, dumb. Especially considering her age. The “villain” was the typical bad guy out for revenge, even if what happened to send him on his quest to destroy Casimit happened centuries ago, and I am left to wonder how on Earth he managed to hold onto his hatred for so long, and why he waited so long to act.
Casimir’s mysterious past was finally revealed, but it was mostly shown through flashbacks, and I sadly struggle with flashbacks so I can’t say that I was super involved in discovering his past, but that’s because of me and my reading preferences, not because it was badly done.
“The rabbit… it’s really cute. Go find something else,” I urge.
The look Casimir’s giving me tells me I’m being ridiculous.
“Go… Go find something… ugly? We’re only allowed to eat ugly things now?”
“Yes, just… let that one go. Find something else.”
“This is fucking ridiculous,” Casimir grumbles, but he sighs and disappears before returning, this time with an opossum in his hand. “Here. It’s nice and ugly. I made sure to grab the ugliest one. Is this edible?”
It looks me right in the eyes, causing an instant connection. I grimace. “Casimir, it looked at me.”
I usually enjoy Alice Winters’ brand of silly humor very much, but somehow the delivery was not as good in this book. Some jokes or situations felt very similar to scenes from her previous books, and even the vibe of the group feels more and more similar to the VRC gang and Leeland’s group. I think I will take a little break from her books so I can enjoy the next one more. As I said in my review of the first book, she never fails to make me smile, but I can’t read too many of her books back to back because, after a while, the dynamic, jokes, and characters all start to feel the same.
Ezio once claimed to be a scientist. It was about a hundred years ago and he really liked using leeches, so go forward at your own risk.”
“I feel like Ezio’s entire life is a midlife crisis.”
“Don’t even get me started on when he came to me and told me he was going to be a goat farmer until one headbutted him.”
“What’d he do after that?” “I don’t know. He found some stray human and gave him the house and told him to take care of his goats until he came back. I don’t think he ever came back.”
The next book of the series will follow Ezio and Cyrus, and I will read it for sure, because I like both characters, but mostly, because I am curious to know what Cyrus is, or what special abilities he has. The dude is not 100% human, that’s for sure.
1. Fake Dates and Fanged Mistakes ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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June 24, 2024
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates dives deep into Casimir's background as it comes back to haunt him and his relationship with Julian.
I'm a big fan of Alice Winters's books and the Fanged Mistakes series has to be one of my favourites. I'm hoping for and looking forward to more books in this series!
I'm a big fan of Alice Winters's books and the Fanged Mistakes series has to be one of my favourites. I'm hoping for and looking forward to more books in this series!
March 11, 2024
"Please, tell me. Am I only to eat ugly people?"
"Well, you're not killing them, right?
"Oh, so it only matter if I kill them? So if I'm not killing them, I can drink from anyone, but if I am killing them, the ugly ones are the ones I go for?"
OMG so many laughter inducing moments in this book!! Despite the horrible situation this mishmashed crew have found themselves in, there were plenty of hilarious moments to keep this book mostly on the lighthearted side. I also enjoyed the more smoopy moments. It shows how much Casimir truly trusts Julian with how much he has opened up to him and even shown his vulnerable side on occasion. Those two really were made for each other.
The storyline kept me guessing. I think I changed my mind quite a few times over who I thought the baddie was. We also got a few intriguing hints about both Cyrus and Enzio's pasts. I'm still questioning whether or not I think Cyrus is fully human. And I really really wanna know what happened to him to make him so mistrusting of vampires. Thankfully, I won't have to wait too long because their book is next!
"Well, you're not killing them, right?
"Oh, so it only matter if I kill them? So if I'm not killing them, I can drink from anyone, but if I am killing them, the ugly ones are the ones I go for?"
OMG so many laughter inducing moments in this book!! Despite the horrible situation this mishmashed crew have found themselves in, there were plenty of hilarious moments to keep this book mostly on the lighthearted side. I also enjoyed the more smoopy moments. It shows how much Casimir truly trusts Julian with how much he has opened up to him and even shown his vulnerable side on occasion. Those two really were made for each other.
The storyline kept me guessing. I think I changed my mind quite a few times over who I thought the baddie was. We also got a few intriguing hints about both Cyrus and Enzio's pasts. I'm still questioning whether or not I think Cyrus is fully human. And I really really wanna know what happened to him to make him so mistrusting of vampires. Thankfully, I won't have to wait too long because their book is next!
April 4, 2024
These books have me howling with laughter, I love the way Alice writes and, even when things become absolutely insanely ridiculous, I just don't care.
This is the second in the vampire/werewolf epic journey that is Julian and Casimir's romance and it has everything you'd expect from book one continued, mad villains, daft jokes, the best floofy poodle cross dog ever and Cas threatening people left, right and centre.
It's also got a lot of stuff about personal growth as we get a look back into Cas's less than salubrious past, something he's done his best to move on and get over. It wasn't a very nice existence and he's probably allowed a lot of leeway for the actions he was forced into.
This one's probably slightly more serious than the first entry in the series, simply because of the narrative matter, but it still manages to be funny, sweet, steamy and fulfil all the requirements for leaving the reader wanting more.
This is the second in the vampire/werewolf epic journey that is Julian and Casimir's romance and it has everything you'd expect from book one continued, mad villains, daft jokes, the best floofy poodle cross dog ever and Cas threatening people left, right and centre.
It's also got a lot of stuff about personal growth as we get a look back into Cas's less than salubrious past, something he's done his best to move on and get over. It wasn't a very nice existence and he's probably allowed a lot of leeway for the actions he was forced into.
This one's probably slightly more serious than the first entry in the series, simply because of the narrative matter, but it still manages to be funny, sweet, steamy and fulfil all the requirements for leaving the reader wanting more.
March 17, 2024
What you can expect from an Alice winters book.
The way the characters literally says : "ah ah ah". When laughing is very cringe to me, but the book was okay, not her best but not her worst
The way the characters literally says : "ah ah ah". When laughing is very cringe to me, but the book was okay, not her best but not her worst
dnf
July 18, 2024DNF@27%
It got boring really fast. Too many plot holes. Too OTT even for me.
It got boring really fast. Too many plot holes. Too OTT even for me.
March 13, 2024
This was a lot more serious in content that I was expecting as we got a lot more of Casimir's back story. Still had the usual Alice Winters humour sprinkled throughout though, and I really enjoyed being back with these characters.
My curiosity about Cyrus is through the roof at this point. I'm absolutely convinced that he isn't actually human at all, but I have no clue on what he really is 😂 I'm hoping we get a story for him and Ezio so we get to know both characters better also, as a few things were hinted at which have me intrigued.
I'm also living for the relationship between Yorick/Borick and Atticus - I love a good 'enemies' to lovers story and I really hope we get theirs eventually!
My curiosity about Cyrus is through the roof at this point. I'm absolutely convinced that he isn't actually human at all, but I have no clue on what he really is 😂 I'm hoping we get a story for him and Ezio so we get to know both characters better also, as a few things were hinted at which have me intrigued.
I'm also living for the relationship between Yorick/Borick and Atticus - I love a good 'enemies' to lovers story and I really hope we get theirs eventually!
March 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this!! What a great du0logy (Although I really, really want more LOL. Does anyone know if we're getting more in this series?)
I love this group of friends - Julian, Casimir, Ezio, Cyrus, and I ADORE Yorick LOL. Him calling Julian "Puppers" and being just up for absolutely any damn thing as long as he's part of the group just kills me.
Please please tell me we're getting a Ezio/Cyrus and Yorick/Atticus story at some point yall!
As for Julian and Casimir, I just loved them. Honestly, that entire scene with Julian having just shifted back on the table and that poor confused delivery woman LOL. Alice knows how to write the most amazing, absurd, hilarious scenes and it just all totally WORKS.
This was amazing in audio - Michael kills it again! I know this is one I will be listening to again!
I love this group of friends - Julian, Casimir, Ezio, Cyrus, and I ADORE Yorick LOL. Him calling Julian "Puppers" and being just up for absolutely any damn thing as long as he's part of the group just kills me.
Please please tell me we're getting a Ezio/Cyrus and Yorick/Atticus story at some point yall!
As for Julian and Casimir, I just loved them. Honestly, that entire scene with Julian having just shifted back on the table and that poor confused delivery woman LOL. Alice knows how to write the most amazing, absurd, hilarious scenes and it just all totally WORKS.
This was amazing in audio - Michael kills it again! I know this is one I will be listening to again!
December 29, 2025
My babies! Alice Winters has a way to create such lovable characters and stories that are a perfect mix of seriousness, humour, romance, and action. This sequel sees the same characters as book 1 with a few additions both mysterious and fun. Casimir is still struggling with flirting and overall with human interactions, but he's just so cute and I hurt seeing him so miserable when a mysterious masked man seemingly from his dark past has come and threatens to ruin his life and everone he loves. And he just started opening his heart, you see how love was so hard for him but now that he gets it, he loves with all his heart. That his love is mainly for his fluffy dog Gustov and his boyfriend who turns fluffy Julian, that's another matter. His hate for Julian's dad still brings me so much joy.
Julian from his part is still a ball of sunshine, never letting Casimir doubt himself nor the love they have, being the king of communication! Talking does make things easier! When Casimir is all broody and all "I'll go alone to face danger", Julian is all "what about we join forces with our trusted friends you know the more the merrier". They complement each other so perfectly and are both so goofy and ridiculous it's just such a joy to read.
Gustov is still the best ball of cotton floof and Casimir's house is slowly turning into a museum of art depicting his beauty.
Julian from his part is still a ball of sunshine, never letting Casimir doubt himself nor the love they have, being the king of communication! Talking does make things easier! When Casimir is all broody and all "I'll go alone to face danger", Julian is all "what about we join forces with our trusted friends you know the more the merrier". They complement each other so perfectly and are both so goofy and ridiculous it's just such a joy to read.
Gustov is still the best ball of cotton floof and Casimir's house is slowly turning into a museum of art depicting his beauty.
June 26, 2024
Julian and Casimir continue to delight and amuse me! As always with Alice Winters' books, I laughed heaps and loved the audiobook.
Casimir is such a fun character! The ancient evil vampire who hates everyone but Julian and who takes delight in mildly torturing whoever he's decided has wronged him (goddamn Steve!) just for the fun of it, and who's also obsessed with his floofy dog and brushes him incessantly as stress relief.
And Julian! The loveable werewolf who can charm anyone and he's so funny and sweet but can be sassy af too.
This book delves into Casimir's past, while also letting the side characters get more space. The whole main cast of characters are so great and I hope we get to see more of this newly formed found family going forward
Casimir is such a fun character! The ancient evil vampire who hates everyone but Julian and who takes delight in mildly torturing whoever he's decided has wronged him (goddamn Steve!) just for the fun of it, and who's also obsessed with his floofy dog and brushes him incessantly as stress relief.
And Julian! The loveable werewolf who can charm anyone and he's so funny and sweet but can be sassy af too.
This book delves into Casimir's past, while also letting the side characters get more space. The whole main cast of characters are so great and I hope we get to see more of this newly formed found family going forward
April 15, 2024
5 stars
Oh, these books are so fun. I love the silliness, Tue snark, the crazy antics. I can't wait to read more of them.
Oh, these books are so fun. I love the silliness, Tue snark, the crazy antics. I can't wait to read more of them.
August 12, 2024
Has everything and wit
December 2, 2025
How come Alice can make you drown in feels one moment and then snort in laughter out loud the next? It is a skill no doubt. A good plot that adds more depth to the characters, moments of vulnerability and pain mixed with the silly ridiculous ones, a villain that when reveals makes you go "that makes so much sense yet I did not see that coming".
Loved it
Edit: reread on audiobook. I enjoyed it a lot better than the first book. This one does feel reread worthy
Loved it
Edit: reread on audiobook. I enjoyed it a lot better than the first book. This one does feel reread worthy
October 15, 2025
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates by Alice Winters
💙 Grumpy Vampire MC
💙 Artistic Snarky Werewolf MC
💙 Already Established Couple
💙 Paranormal Age Gap (31 & 503)
💙 Grumpy x Sunshine
💙 Found Family
🔥 Sex Toys (Cock Ring & Vibrator), Role Play
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW: violence, gun violence, blood & gore, threat, injury, torture, murder, death, scarring, mild PTSD, kidnapping, manipulation, bomb explosion, house fire, confinement & starvation, attempted suicide (side character), mentions of grooming, mentions of abuse (mental & physical) mention of castration, mention of animal death (rabbit), mentions of war.
💙 Grumpy Vampire MC
💙 Artistic Snarky Werewolf MC
💙 Already Established Couple
💙 Paranormal Age Gap (31 & 503)
💙 Grumpy x Sunshine
💙 Found Family
🔥 Sex Toys (Cock Ring & Vibrator), Role Play
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW: violence, gun violence, blood & gore, threat, injury, torture, murder, death, scarring, mild PTSD, kidnapping, manipulation, bomb explosion, house fire, confinement & starvation, attempted suicide (side character), mentions of grooming, mentions of abuse (mental & physical) mention of castration, mention of animal death (rabbit), mentions of war.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2025
*Audio* The audio was fantastic. I still laughed, still gasped (IYKYK) and was completely entertained.
For me, a book is an automatic 5 stars when it evokes an emotional response for me. So here's my 5 stars just for the laughing, the gasps of shock and then horror... more laughing, and a few aww moments.
Casmir's character growth is something. In book 1 he was so closed off, even to Julian sometimes. Here he's pushing away the walls around himself, and letting his friends actually be friends.
Julian is the sweetest pupper that the rest all center around and honestly, it works. He's got a heart of gold and wants only to see the good in people.
Yorrick returns and I totally want him and his maker as a thing!
Action, romance, steamy times, a lot of laughs and revelations. I cannot wait to listen to this!
For me, a book is an automatic 5 stars when it evokes an emotional response for me. So here's my 5 stars just for the laughing, the gasps of shock and then horror... more laughing, and a few aww moments.
Casmir's character growth is something. In book 1 he was so closed off, even to Julian sometimes. Here he's pushing away the walls around himself, and letting his friends actually be friends.
Julian is the sweetest pupper that the rest all center around and honestly, it works. He's got a heart of gold and wants only to see the good in people.
Yorrick returns and I totally want him and his maker as a thing!
Action, romance, steamy times, a lot of laughs and revelations. I cannot wait to listen to this!
March 12, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates is the second book in Alice Winters’ Fanged Mistakes series and is best read after the first book to be familiar with the characters and the series arc so far. The story picks up with Julian and Casimir happy together and in love. Casimir never thought he deserved someone like Julian, but he is finally finding some happiness. Then this mystery person from his past comes along and starts stirring things up. There is a nice suspense plot here as the vampire is threatening lives and putting both friends and strangers in dangers. It gets intense and exciting and comes together really well. The story gives a chance for Julian (and the reader) to learn more about Casimir’s past that is alluded to in the first book, but not detailed. It is dark and horrible and really helps to give insight into Casimir’s character. It also provides a chance to see the comfort and support Julian provides, as he accepts Casimir just as he is and works to help Casimir believe his past doesn’t make him a monster.
I am such a fan of Winters’ writing and this is another really fun series. It hits that sweet spot Winters is so good at of great suspense, lots of humor, and an endearing grumpy/sunshine pair.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Dire Straits and Entwined Fates is the second book in Alice Winters’ Fanged Mistakes series and is best read after the first book to be familiar with the characters and the series arc so far. The story picks up with Julian and Casimir happy together and in love. Casimir never thought he deserved someone like Julian, but he is finally finding some happiness. Then this mystery person from his past comes along and starts stirring things up. There is a nice suspense plot here as the vampire is threatening lives and putting both friends and strangers in dangers. It gets intense and exciting and comes together really well. The story gives a chance for Julian (and the reader) to learn more about Casimir’s past that is alluded to in the first book, but not detailed. It is dark and horrible and really helps to give insight into Casimir’s character. It also provides a chance to see the comfort and support Julian provides, as he accepts Casimir just as he is and works to help Casimir believe his past doesn’t make him a monster.
I am such a fan of Winters’ writing and this is another really fun series. It hits that sweet spot Winters is so good at of great suspense, lots of humor, and an endearing grumpy/sunshine pair.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
January 29, 2026
another audible listen & i loved it 🤪🤪
they are just so silly goofy
they are just so silly goofy
March 18, 2024
This story did not WOW me or even drag me in. It was easy to put down, First I would like to say that the plot is interesting and has a few layers - it is the characters that drag the story down - at least for the first half.
I struggled to connect to the MCs. For me, their connection/relationship did not seem to have any depth or need. This improved in the latter part of the story, but almost too late. I think part of the problem is the relationship comes across as being built on surface elements such as sarcasm and teasing.
I struggled to connect to the MCs. For me, their connection/relationship did not seem to have any depth or need. This improved in the latter part of the story, but almost too late. I think part of the problem is the relationship comes across as being built on surface elements such as sarcasm and teasing.
December 18, 2024
Admittedly, book two starts out much slower than book one. Almost to the point that I dnf’d BUT ALAS I soon as I made that decision the story took off. Still following the adorable love story of Julian and Casimir. Book two gives you the backstory of all of Casimir’s demons and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Obsessed. I had so much fun.
March 31, 2024
Alice has done it again. This book was a fabulous follow-up to the first book in the series. In this book we learned so much about Casimir as well as many of the supporting characters. We see firsthand what events led to Casimir being such a hard man. It's amazing to see how he learns to love Julian as well as his friends along the way. Lets not forget about the super sexy times in this book. Wow, Alice really outdid herself this time. The plot was great, it had me gasping out loud at the twists and turns. As always Julian brings the humor to his little group. Watching the characters grow throughout the story was fascinating. I'm really excited to see what the future brings for Ezio and Cyrus.
March 5, 2024
I can not get enough of the humor that Alice Winters weaves into her books! This book has all of our favorite friends from the 1st book, more love and laughs, and plenty of twists and turns. It's another brilliant addition to the Alice Winters library!
May 16, 2024
A sweet sequel
A humorous and tender sequel. Not nearly as funny as the first. There was more drama and steam in Dire Straits… The moments of mirth although fewer in number, were strong enough to make me laugh out loud.
A humorous and tender sequel. Not nearly as funny as the first. There was more drama and steam in Dire Straits… The moments of mirth although fewer in number, were strong enough to make me laugh out loud.
August 7, 2024
4.25 stars
While I did enjoy the ‘meat’ of this story, I was a bit disappointed in the resolution of the conflict. I thought after all the build up, it was going to be explosive. It kinda wasn’t. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed the ending but the reveal and the ‘resolution’ were quick and fell a little flat.
This book was typical Alice Winters hilarious. I just felt the conflict was drawn out and ended too abruptly.
*****
POV… multi first person
Standalone or series… book 2 in series should be read in order
Hangover… slight
Recommend… yes
Reread… sure
While I did enjoy the ‘meat’ of this story, I was a bit disappointed in the resolution of the conflict. I thought after all the build up, it was going to be explosive. It kinda wasn’t. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed the ending but the reveal and the ‘resolution’ were quick and fell a little flat.
This book was typical Alice Winters hilarious. I just felt the conflict was drawn out and ended too abruptly.
*****
POV… multi first person
Standalone or series… book 2 in series should be read in order
Hangover… slight
Recommend… yes
Reread… sure
April 22, 2025
4.5 Stars
For all of their absurdity I do enjoy Alice Winters books. The humor is just ridiculous. And that's definitely the case with this series. Casimir pretty much dislikes everyone and everything except for his mate Julian and his dog Gustaf, with whom he is giddily obsessed. I find it amusing that despite his caustic nature, because the heart underneath is good, their group of friends keeps growing with guys willing to look beyond the surface sarcasm and dislike. Of course Julian helps with that. He's such a good soul and cares so much for everyone around him. And with poking and prodding his is going to get Casimir to help him take a stand and protect those around him.
Casimir's past has come back to threaten the potential of his future. Casimir's past is dark and deadly, he had a traumatic childhood with a "adoptive father" who only wanted boys to turn into the perfect soldiers/assassins. In reality the brainwashing Casimir was subject to as a child was never going to be easy to deprogram and he deals with a lot of guilt over the end of his "brothers." But he was sure they were all dead. Now someone claiming to be one of Masks is out to terrorize him and destroy all he holds dear.
Julian isn't willing to be hidden away and protected despite how much Casimir wants to lock him away from any danger. Together is they only way they can truly face down this threat. All of the teasing and snark between the group is always such fun. Again the absurdity of it all does just make me smile. I enjoyed this book and the seeing Casimir learn to open up more and let people in.
For all of their absurdity I do enjoy Alice Winters books. The humor is just ridiculous. And that's definitely the case with this series. Casimir pretty much dislikes everyone and everything except for his mate Julian and his dog Gustaf, with whom he is giddily obsessed. I find it amusing that despite his caustic nature, because the heart underneath is good, their group of friends keeps growing with guys willing to look beyond the surface sarcasm and dislike. Of course Julian helps with that. He's such a good soul and cares so much for everyone around him. And with poking and prodding his is going to get Casimir to help him take a stand and protect those around him.
Casimir's past has come back to threaten the potential of his future. Casimir's past is dark and deadly, he had a traumatic childhood with a "adoptive father" who only wanted boys to turn into the perfect soldiers/assassins. In reality the brainwashing Casimir was subject to as a child was never going to be easy to deprogram and he deals with a lot of guilt over the end of his "brothers." But he was sure they were all dead. Now someone claiming to be one of Masks is out to terrorize him and destroy all he holds dear.
Julian isn't willing to be hidden away and protected despite how much Casimir wants to lock him away from any danger. Together is they only way they can truly face down this threat. All of the teasing and snark between the group is always such fun. Again the absurdity of it all does just make me smile. I enjoyed this book and the seeing Casimir learn to open up more and let people in.
March 12, 2024
If I thought Fake Dates was stressful at times, it has nothing on Dire Straits! Shew, my pulse was pounding, and I was so anxious to find out what was coming. But then the next minute I would be laughing out loud at the ridiculousness of this crew. This story has some of the funniest, most over the top scenes of any of Ms. Winters’ books, hands down- and that’s a feat, for sure. I want to gush and rave over them, but I don’t want to spoil anything and just allow the reader to experience it for themselves.
In this book we finally get the truth about Casimir’s past, and it’s like nothing I could have imagined. And boy, did my heart hurt for him. It’s a wonder he has even a shred of humanity left. But you just have to see him with Gustav to know that he does.
I really loved getting to know Casimir better, and learning his “why”. I liked that he allowed Julian, and by association us the reader, to see a hint of his vulnerability in this book, as his past came back to haunt him.
Once again Ms. Winters has captivated me with her storytelling and makes it hard to say goodbye when the book is done. But fear not, there’s more to come in this world and
In this book we finally get the truth about Casimir’s past, and it’s like nothing I could have imagined. And boy, did my heart hurt for him. It’s a wonder he has even a shred of humanity left. But you just have to see him with Gustav to know that he does.
I really loved getting to know Casimir better, and learning his “why”. I liked that he allowed Julian, and by association us the reader, to see a hint of his vulnerability in this book, as his past came back to haunt him.
Once again Ms. Winters has captivated me with her storytelling and makes it hard to say goodbye when the book is done. But fear not, there’s more to come in this world and
March 7, 2024
In her usual fashion Alice Winters made me laugh and cry with this book. More laughs than crying but Casimir’s past made me cry for real, tears and tissues needed. Also while the book is mostly about Casimir and Julian they have their “friends” and “enemies” close around them. We actually learn a lot about these secondary characters as Ms. Winters again packs so much story into this volume while still making us giggle. The story is alternately silly, poignant, funny, sad, ridiculous and more but still is so well balanced that I didn’t want to put it down. Her books are always one clicks for me because I know that they are going to be well written and entertaining. I would love to be able to have a tour of Alice Winters’ brain and see what enables her to come up with all this stuff while still making all of her stories so different. Fascinating.
I was given an ARC of this book and this is my honest review
I was given an ARC of this book and this is my honest review
March 4, 2024
Once again Casimir, Julian and the gang are facing trouble with the past coming back to haunt Casimir. It was a time in his life that changed him forever, and still haunts him, but this time around he has a lot more to lose. With Julian’s fate entwined with his Casimir will do anything to keep the sweetest and kindest person in his life safe whilst Julian will drop everything to help Casimir.
It’s not all action and drama though with plenty of hilarity to even the balance. This includes popcorn, a maids outfit with a feather duster accessory, a unique interpretation of monopoly, Gustov being Gustov, Casimir’s tormenting of Terrance and Julian feeling exposed on numerous occasions.
The villain of the piece does their utmost to destroy Casimir and all he loves but with Julian by his side, Casimir is able to look towards the future and away from the past.
It’s not all action and drama though with plenty of hilarity to even the balance. This includes popcorn, a maids outfit with a feather duster accessory, a unique interpretation of monopoly, Gustov being Gustov, Casimir’s tormenting of Terrance and Julian feeling exposed on numerous occasions.
The villain of the piece does their utmost to destroy Casimir and all he loves but with Julian by his side, Casimir is able to look towards the future and away from the past.
March 18, 2024
Julian and Casimir are absolutely hilarious together. I love that Casimir is a vampire who is ridiculous with everything he says and does. Not just because most vampire books portray them as very serious and out of touch, but as we learn his backstory, he really could be a very grumpy and dark character. The continued terrorising of Terrance (Julian’s father) is freaking hilarious. Even more so because Julian himself loves it so much and actively takes part.
Casimir’s backstory - both as a human and his early vampire years - were incredibly sad and incredibly violent. They are the main focus of this book as someone from his past is determined to make him pay for the violence he wrought. Julian is determined to stand by his man and make him believe he really is not the monster Casimir believes himself to be. You will laugh and laugh but you will also want to wrap Casimir up and hug him and maybe yell something horrible at Steve lol
I am looking forward to more Ezio and Cyrus in the future too. I highly recommend this series but keep in mind this is not a standalone, book 1 must be read first. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Casimir’s backstory - both as a human and his early vampire years - were incredibly sad and incredibly violent. They are the main focus of this book as someone from his past is determined to make him pay for the violence he wrought. Julian is determined to stand by his man and make him believe he really is not the monster Casimir believes himself to be. You will laugh and laugh but you will also want to wrap Casimir up and hug him and maybe yell something horrible at Steve lol
I am looking forward to more Ezio and Cyrus in the future too. I highly recommend this series but keep in mind this is not a standalone, book 1 must be read first. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 21, 2025
Michael Feraiuolo proves why he is such an excellent narrator once again. He makes the emotions stronger, the humor wittier, the heat next level with that right level of tension needed to hold your attention throughout. Cannot say enough how brillant of a narrarator he is.
Book 2 of FANGED MISTSKES lets us see how or why Casimir is the way he is. We see why he needs his friends to be sane and whole, even when he doesn't forgive himself for his past transgressions. Julian continues to show why his sweet soul was made to change the lives of all those around him. Together, Julian & Casimir were made to unite the vampires and werewolves. Now I need to know Cyrus past and why he is the way he is, and yet still helps this band of misfits. I can't wait to see what's next to come from this universe to see the further growth of these men.
Book 2 of FANGED MISTSKES lets us see how or why Casimir is the way he is. We see why he needs his friends to be sane and whole, even when he doesn't forgive himself for his past transgressions. Julian continues to show why his sweet soul was made to change the lives of all those around him. Together, Julian & Casimir were made to unite the vampires and werewolves. Now I need to know Cyrus past and why he is the way he is, and yet still helps this band of misfits. I can't wait to see what's next to come from this universe to see the further growth of these men.
September 1, 2025
August 2025
Kindle edition
Read for a group challenge. I stuck all the books I needed to read on a spinner. I didn't know what this one was and when I realised, my initial thought was ah fuck. These books are usually over the top ridiculous, the plot can go anywhere on the crazy train and well Leland got a bit irritating after a while, so I wasn't looking forward to this one, nor did I remember what happened in the first book.
It was fun. Dragged a little and I did check the page count a couple of times. I got the bad guy then dismissed it. My brain did the whole Johnny Five is alive thing, and stopped at Giles. Then it was Nine because yeah that was a panicked lover stand off.
I felt bad for Yorick. He was a fun character. Curious about whatever was going on with him and Atticus. Rather than the main couple, I was more interested in Cas winding the father up. I'll probably end up reading the next one.
Kindle edition
Read for a group challenge. I stuck all the books I needed to read on a spinner. I didn't know what this one was and when I realised, my initial thought was ah fuck. These books are usually over the top ridiculous, the plot can go anywhere on the crazy train and well Leland got a bit irritating after a while, so I wasn't looking forward to this one, nor did I remember what happened in the first book.
It was fun. Dragged a little and I did check the page count a couple of times. I got the bad guy then dismissed it. My brain did the whole Johnny Five is alive thing, and stopped at Giles. Then it was Nine because yeah that was a panicked lover stand off.
I felt bad for Yorick. He was a fun character. Curious about whatever was going on with him and Atticus. Rather than the main couple, I was more interested in Cas winding the father up. I'll probably end up reading the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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