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The Northern Shifters #1
Star-Crossed Betas
Connor: Ending up in an arranged marriage with the man who ripped my heart out of my chest and put it through a blender - was not on my bingo card this year. Yet what did I expect when I made the most cliched mistake of falling in love with the son of the enemy pack? If we don’t find a way to coexist and build a pack together, we’re in breach of the peace agreement. But how do you forgive the unforgivable?
Phoenix: Regret should be the title of my memoir. One secret spilt to the wrong person toppled my life like a house of cards. I’m desperate for Connor to forgive me, but too much is at stake if I tell him the truth about why I betrayed him. How are we supposed to build a life together on a land filled with bitter-sweet memories? The last pack on this land died in a series of fires fifty years ago. I only hope that Connor’s fiery temper doesn’t lead us to the same fate.
Star-crossed Betas is an MM Wolf Shifter romance set in the North of England.
Phoenix: Regret should be the title of my memoir. One secret spilt to the wrong person toppled my life like a house of cards. I’m desperate for Connor to forgive me, but too much is at stake if I tell him the truth about why I betrayed him. How are we supposed to build a life together on a land filled with bitter-sweet memories? The last pack on this land died in a series of fires fifty years ago. I only hope that Connor’s fiery temper doesn’t lead us to the same fate.
Star-crossed Betas is an MM Wolf Shifter romance set in the North of England.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2024
66 people are currently reading
486 people want to read
About the author
Emory Winters
7 books102 followersHaving been an avid reader her whole life, Emory got back into writing in early 2023. She began writing the first draft of Star-crossed Betas in June of the same year, and the story spilled out of her onto paper in just seven weeks.
It didn’t take long for Emory to realise that there were more love stories to be told and a larger mystery at hand, so it became book one of a four-part series.
In the rare moments Emory isn’t writing or editing, she can usually be found reading with her cat, Buffy. Or, in better weather, out walking in the beautiful Yorkshire scenery that provided the perfect backdrop for her books.
It didn’t take long for Emory to realise that there were more love stories to be told and a larger mystery at hand, so it became book one of a four-part series.
In the rare moments Emory isn’t writing or editing, she can usually be found reading with her cat, Buffy. Or, in better weather, out walking in the beautiful Yorkshire scenery that provided the perfect backdrop for her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
July 26, 2024
4.5***** stars
A beautiful second-chance romance with two young wolf-shifters so desperately in love the book was heavy on all the intense feels it made my heart sing.
Some quotes for me to remember them:
All my love for Fee (Phoenix) and Cee (Conner) and their heart-achingly wonderful journey to finally be with each other, forgive each other and love each other out in the open. ♡
Emory Winters did fantastic with her debut novel showing great writing skills and captivating storytelling including a mystery that’s not yet solved. I can’t wait for this series to continue. Everything to come that was hinted at already sounds super enticing.
*************
The Northern Shifters Series
Book 1 - Star-Crossed Betas - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - tbd (Noah & Oliver)
A beautiful second-chance romance with two young wolf-shifters so desperately in love the book was heavy on all the intense feels it made my heart sing.
Some quotes for me to remember them:
Seeing the silent tears run down his smooth, pale cheeks, I can’t help but tentatively reach out with my thumb to wipe them away. He looks into my eyes, and a sob escapes him.
⚭
I need physical distance between us, and yet with every step I take away from him, the bond between us pulls taught. The bond between our souls that demands we be together—because bite or no bite, we’re mates.
⚭
Flinging open his wardrobe, I grab his favourite pair of dark blue jeans and one of his nice black leather belts for good measure. I have a smaller waist than him, after all. “Fine, dick head. You want to only wash your own clothes? I guess we’ll be sharing a wardrobe now,” I mutter to myself.
⚭
“Um. Since it’s five years ago today we met, I thought it might be nice to… erm… do something,” I stammer out.
Someone punch me in the face, I beg you.
⚭
“Let’s not be sorry anymore. Let’s just love each other.”
All my love for Fee (Phoenix) and Cee (Conner) and their heart-achingly wonderful journey to finally be with each other, forgive each other and love each other out in the open. ♡
Emory Winters did fantastic with her debut novel showing great writing skills and captivating storytelling including a mystery that’s not yet solved. I can’t wait for this series to continue. Everything to come that was hinted at already sounds super enticing.
*************
The Northern Shifters Series
Book 1 - Star-Crossed Betas - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - tbd (Noah & Oliver)
Want to read
March 4, 2025I actually had the pleasure to be BETA-reader this for the beautiful Emory Winters, so although I have read it many months ago, I'm going to leave as to read for now, because I want to read the finished product sometime!
Because, well, as hard as it was.., I gave very HONEST BETA READ FEEDBACK that admittedly, possibly upset Emory for a short time due to the brutal honesty (I don't know how to live any other way, and I never wanted to hurt the angel Emory 😭😭😭 I JUST WANTED THE BOOK TO BE THE BEST BOOK)
BUT it lead to the writing of one of her fave scenes of the whole book so I feel (AND HOPE)I did some good with my constructive criticism.
I would love to read it again so I can see what changes were made, and read the famous new fave scene!! hehehehehe 💖💖💖
And read the part where she called me a feral rat in her acknowledgements page and I cried 😭
(My inbox is open if anyone ever wants me to beta read and crush your hopes and dreams (I'm completely kidding, I only give truths and opinions that may help aid you hahaha))
Because, well, as hard as it was.., I gave very HONEST BETA READ FEEDBACK that admittedly, possibly upset Emory for a short time due to the brutal honesty (I don't know how to live any other way, and I never wanted to hurt the angel Emory 😭😭😭 I JUST WANTED THE BOOK TO BE THE BEST BOOK)
BUT it lead to the writing of one of her fave scenes of the whole book so I feel (AND HOPE)I did some good with my constructive criticism.
I would love to read it again so I can see what changes were made, and read the famous new fave scene!! hehehehehe 💖💖💖
And read the part where she called me a feral rat in her acknowledgements page and I cried 😭
(My inbox is open if anyone ever wants me to beta read and crush your hopes and dreams (I'm completely kidding, I only give truths and opinions that may help aid you hahaha))
August 9, 2024
Connor (Cee) & Phoenix (Fee)
Rating: 4.4 ⭐
- Second Chance
- Arranged Marriage
- Opposites Attract
- Forbidden Love
- Fated Mates
- Paranormal
- Wolf Shifters
- Forced Proximity
- Everyone is Bi
- Wolf Pack Politics
- Mystery
- Joiner/History Teacher
This was actually a sweet chance romance with two boys that were just trying to do the best they could, while still loving each other.
Connor and Phoenix meet when they were younger and they knew instantly that they were mates but they were from rival packs and couldn't be open with their relationship. For four years they date in secret which ends in heartbreak for both men. Phoenix had no choice in the decision he had to make and Connor never gave him a chance to try and explain, so they spend a year apart in agony. Ironically, they end up arranged to be married a year after their breakup and now they have to be together to bring peace between the packs.
These two have work through their pain, reveal truths, and find their love again. It's painful, frustrating, and sweet the way the work on being together again. Their hearts break all over again a few times while they find out what really happened that broke them apart. Their friends and siblings are a great support systems and made major sacrifices to help them when they could.
There's an underlying mystery to the series, so it's not solved in this book. The plot twist with Connor was unexpected and fun to see, explains his stubborn personality though. It will be interesting to see how the mystery plays out and how all the introduces side characters find their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Content Warnings:
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Mild exhibitionism
- Mentions of parental death (past, off-page)
- House fire
- Side character death/dead body (broken neck, off-page)
- Cut with a knife/bloodletting as part of a ritual (on-page)
- Panic attack
- Recreational cannabis use
- Pregnancy (of a side character)
- Death threat made against a pregnant side character
- Alcohol consumption (drinks to intoxication but once)
- Parental coercion
- Cum Play
- Penetration without lube (once, on-page)
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, for a year
Cheating: No, but Connor was in an arranged engagement with his best friend, Will, before and while he was dating Phoenix.
OM/OW Drama: Phoenix gets jealous of how close Connor is with Will. Connor does sleep with Will once, while drunk, during his breakup from Phoenix.
Ages: At start of relationship - 20 & 19 (together for 5yrs) Ended 26 & 25
Rating: 4.4 ⭐
- Second Chance
- Arranged Marriage
- Opposites Attract
- Forbidden Love
- Fated Mates
- Paranormal
- Wolf Shifters
- Forced Proximity
- Everyone is Bi
- Wolf Pack Politics
- Mystery
- Joiner/History Teacher
This was actually a sweet chance romance with two boys that were just trying to do the best they could, while still loving each other.
Damp earth and lavender—it’s him. The scent settles something deep inside me, a scent that says home. A scent that says mine.
Connor and Phoenix meet when they were younger and they knew instantly that they were mates but they were from rival packs and couldn't be open with their relationship. For four years they date in secret which ends in heartbreak for both men. Phoenix had no choice in the decision he had to make and Connor never gave him a chance to try and explain, so they spend a year apart in agony. Ironically, they end up arranged to be married a year after their breakup and now they have to be together to bring peace between the packs.
These two have work through their pain, reveal truths, and find their love again. It's painful, frustrating, and sweet the way the work on being together again. Their hearts break all over again a few times while they find out what really happened that broke them apart. Their friends and siblings are a great support systems and made major sacrifices to help them when they could.
Running my fingertip over the pink teeth marks, I watch in awe as the wound heals to become a silvery scar. A mark that will never leave his body or mine. My mate. I don’t ever want to leave this moment. Bathing in his taste and scent. Lightning, heather, home and all mine. Forever.
There's an underlying mystery to the series, so it's not solved in this book. The plot twist with Connor was unexpected and fun to see, explains his stubborn personality though. It will be interesting to see how the mystery plays out and how all the introduces side characters find their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Content Warnings:
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Mild exhibitionism
- Mentions of parental death (past, off-page)
- House fire
- Side character death/dead body (broken neck, off-page)
- Cut with a knife/bloodletting as part of a ritual (on-page)
- Panic attack
- Recreational cannabis use
- Pregnancy (of a side character)
- Death threat made against a pregnant side character
- Alcohol consumption (drinks to intoxication but once)
- Parental coercion
- Cum Play
- Penetration without lube (once, on-page)
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, for a year
Cheating: No, but Connor was in an arranged engagement with his best friend, Will, before and while he was dating Phoenix.
OM/OW Drama: Phoenix gets jealous of how close Connor is with Will. Connor does sleep with Will once, while drunk, during his breakup from Phoenix.
Ages: At start of relationship - 20 & 19 (together for 5yrs) Ended 26 & 25
July 31, 2024
This was a surprisingly sweet werewolf PNR and is such an impressive effort for a debut.
Connor and Phoenix meet when they’re young and despite their packs being involved in a generational war, fall in love and have a multi year secret relationship which ends in terrible heart break. Ironically enough, a year after their breakup they find themselves in an arranged marriage to secure a peace treaty between their packs and are provided a second chance.
I like second chance romances cause I think of them as ‘safe angst’ cause you know it has to work out but it’s kind of nice to have two lovesick boys crying and pining over each other for a bit. Connor and Phoenix made for a lovely example of this trope and I enjoyed them together a lot. Coupled with the chemistry between Connor and Phoenix, there was an underlying mystery and world building that I look forward to reading more of and I’m excited for book 2 when it comes out. You can see the beginnings of some really sweet found family business brewing too which I’m also a sucker for.
Most importantly, these are fluffy werewolves and there are wolf cuddles. This is very important information.
Thank you to GRR for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Connor and Phoenix meet when they’re young and despite their packs being involved in a generational war, fall in love and have a multi year secret relationship which ends in terrible heart break. Ironically enough, a year after their breakup they find themselves in an arranged marriage to secure a peace treaty between their packs and are provided a second chance.
I like second chance romances cause I think of them as ‘safe angst’ cause you know it has to work out but it’s kind of nice to have two lovesick boys crying and pining over each other for a bit. Connor and Phoenix made for a lovely example of this trope and I enjoyed them together a lot. Coupled with the chemistry between Connor and Phoenix, there was an underlying mystery and world building that I look forward to reading more of and I’m excited for book 2 when it comes out. You can see the beginnings of some really sweet found family business brewing too which I’m also a sucker for.
Most importantly, these are fluffy werewolves and there are wolf cuddles. This is very important information.
Thank you to GRR for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 28, 2024
3,5 stars.
This book is hard to rate for me, it wasn’t bad, but I wasn't blown away by it, either.
The love to hate to love part was done well (usually it isn't believable at all). I really enjoyed the times the MCs were in their wolf form, playful and genuine.
It wasn't easy to distinguish the two povs because both MCs sounded similar. I kept going back to check which pov I was reading.
Obviously there was a lack of communication (which I'm not the biggest fan of) but since the main secret was what kept the story going for a long time, and it made sense to keep it a secret, it didn't bother me.
My issues were mostly about Connor. He was (for too long) a self centered, unlikeable person. Not only with Phoenix, when things didn't go the way he wanted them to go, but with Will, basically always.
I didn't get how both Connor and Phoenix never really talked honestly to each other about what bothered them (even aside the big secret). And once one of them realised something the other hadn't talked about, they just shut down and questioned the other MC's love (looking at you, Connor).
I enjoyed the parts when Connor and Phoenix were honest and caring, though. I loved how they helped Archie.
In the end there were still many loose ends, setting the scene for the next installment, and things not making (yet?) sense.
This book is hard to rate for me, it wasn’t bad, but I wasn't blown away by it, either.
The love to hate to love part was done well (usually it isn't believable at all). I really enjoyed the times the MCs were in their wolf form, playful and genuine.
It wasn't easy to distinguish the two povs because both MCs sounded similar. I kept going back to check which pov I was reading.
Obviously there was a lack of communication (which I'm not the biggest fan of) but since the main secret was what kept the story going for a long time, and it made sense to keep it a secret, it didn't bother me.
My issues were mostly about Connor. He was (for too long) a self centered, unlikeable person. Not only with Phoenix, when things didn't go the way he wanted them to go, but with Will, basically always.
I didn't get how both Connor and Phoenix never really talked honestly to each other about what bothered them (even aside the big secret). And once one of them realised something the other hadn't talked about, they just shut down and questioned the other MC's love (looking at you, Connor).
I enjoyed the parts when Connor and Phoenix were honest and caring, though. I loved how they helped Archie.
In the end there were still many loose ends, setting the scene for the next installment, and things not making (yet?) sense.
July 14, 2024
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
// Connor and Phoenix fell in love, broke each others hearts then…. had to get married? //
I loved following along this story of sweet young love. The tender first times, the angst, the pining, the reconnection, the inevitability of their love.
Mates at first scent, Cee and Fee were destined to find each other again, no matter what life threw at them.
I loved the typical shifter world setting, the pack politics were intriguing and not too overwhelming, and the arranged/political marriage just added that extra element that really made this a fantastic read.
The romance was a lovely crescendo of feels, making you really experience everything alongside them — from those first love sparkles, to the devastating heartbreak and longing, to the fiery passion of love re-found.
I also really loved the cute wolfy moments, the puppy cuddles, the running in the wild.
This read was really perfect from beginning to end, and I can’t wait to dive into more of this magical world.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Wolf shifters (no mpreg)
- Arranged marriage
- Second chance
- MC w/ panic attacks
- Only one bed
- First times
- Strict top/bottom
- Rimming
- Coming untouched scene
- Brief frotting
• Falling for Fee was probably the easiest thing I ever did; I don’t even remember the day it happened, but suddenly, he was buried deep under my skin. •
// Connor and Phoenix fell in love, broke each others hearts then…. had to get married? //
I loved following along this story of sweet young love. The tender first times, the angst, the pining, the reconnection, the inevitability of their love.
{ The scent settles something deep inside me, a scent that says home. A scent that says mine. }
Mates at first scent, Cee and Fee were destined to find each other again, no matter what life threw at them.
I loved the typical shifter world setting, the pack politics were intriguing and not too overwhelming, and the arranged/political marriage just added that extra element that really made this a fantastic read.
« How was I supposed to ever move on from him after I’d had a taste of perfection? »
The romance was a lovely crescendo of feels, making you really experience everything alongside them — from those first love sparkles, to the devastating heartbreak and longing, to the fiery passion of love re-found.
I also really loved the cute wolfy moments, the puppy cuddles, the running in the wild.
This read was really perfect from beginning to end, and I can’t wait to dive into more of this magical world.
“Take me apart, Fee. I'm all yours.”
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Wolf shifters (no mpreg)
- Arranged marriage
- Second chance
- MC w/ panic attacks
- Only one bed
- First times
- Strict top/bottom
- Rimming
- Coming untouched scene
- Brief frotting
August 2, 2024
3 stars
Love the cover, enjoyed the forbidden relationship angle, didn't mind the time jumps, but it fell apart for me around 50-60% and was a slog to get through. Not enough angst maybe and the getting back together part was pretty anticlimactic.
Full RTC.
Love the cover, enjoyed the forbidden relationship angle, didn't mind the time jumps, but it fell apart for me around 50-60% and was a slog to get through. Not enough angst maybe and the getting back together part was pretty anticlimactic.
Full RTC.
November 24, 2025
I wasn't sure about this one in the beginning to be completely honest but Emory won be over!
An angsty second chance, a good spin on omegaverse and vibrant characters + community. These boys really went through it and worked hard for their HEA. I will say I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first, the plot really started connecting then and gave us a bit. of murder mystery!
When is the next one coming out? I need it!
The only real criticism I have for this one is that Cee and Phee were written a little too similar at points in the beginning. I had to go back to the chapter headers to see who's POV I was in. It got easier as they got older in the book.
An angsty second chance, a good spin on omegaverse and vibrant characters + community. These boys really went through it and worked hard for their HEA. I will say I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first, the plot really started connecting then and gave us a bit. of murder mystery!
When is the next one coming out? I need it!
The only real criticism I have for this one is that Cee and Phee were written a little too similar at points in the beginning. I had to go back to the chapter headers to see who's POV I was in. It got easier as they got older in the book.
July 27, 2024
Emory Winters is another new author to me, but their new book Star-Crossed Betas was wonderful. I could not put it down and now I am sad that I have to wait for the next one. Cee and Fee (aka Conner and Phoenix) have been together for 5 years before Phoenix agrees to an arranged marriage to Cee’s SISTER. There is a lot behind that but needless to say, that hurts the relationship tremendously.
I loved the flashbacks of how Cee and Fee met, fell in love, and how everything led up to their own marriage. Cee’s sister backs out of the wedding and Cee had to take her place. Though both men preferred that, there was still pain and hurt that needed to be overcome.
This was such a great start to a new series. There is a mystery that needs to be solved so this is just the beginning. And Jasper’s mate??? I did not see that coming. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good paranormal romance with wolf shifters.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
I loved the flashbacks of how Cee and Fee met, fell in love, and how everything led up to their own marriage. Cee’s sister backs out of the wedding and Cee had to take her place. Though both men preferred that, there was still pain and hurt that needed to be overcome.
This was such a great start to a new series. There is a mystery that needs to be solved so this is just the beginning. And Jasper’s mate??? I did not see that coming. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good paranormal romance with wolf shifters.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
July 11, 2024
What an absolutely delightful start to a series that I'm already thoroughly obsessed with! I adored "Star-Crossed Betas": it had everything my romance-loving heart could wish for.
Arranged marriage with a double whammy of enemies-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers once again AND second chance romance? Shifters, pack politics, hidden secrets, betrayals, a fab cast of side characters that I already adore? Two main characters who are kinda sunshine/grumpy personified, featuring lots of pining and "I'm trying to hold a grudge here but I still love you desperately and I also find you smoking hot"? I was hooked from the very beginning.
Connor and Phoenix are wonderful protagonists. I admit, I had a soft spot for Phoenix: overburdened, responsible disaster of a man who's got a lovely golden retriever personality when he's finally able to let go? I loved him. I loved being in his head, and I seriously wanted to jump into the book and protect him. He makes mistakes sure, but he's also the self-sacrificing type: I adored how selfless and lovely he was. Connor was a bit more tricky for me to love thoroughly; I usually adore the grumpy, snarky, walls-a-mile-wide-around-their-heart kind of character, but he spent quite a lot of time jumping to conclusions when a simple question, or maybe just thinking before acting, would have saved him (and Phoenix) (and me!) a whole lot of pain and hurt. I do love prickly characters like him, but he was a smidge too mean to Phoenix at times. Anyway, that said, I did like being in his head, and I adored the character arc he goes through!
Their romance was amazing: I love a good ol' second chance romance; the pining is always so delicious, and the enemies-to-lovers subplot going on was the cherry on the cake.
I can't believe this is Emory Winters debut! I truly adored it, and I'd seriously sell my soul to the devil to have the second book already. I'm so damn curious about what will happen: despite this book having a wonderful ending, the outside plot kinda ends on a bit of cliffhanger, and I cannot wait to see what will happen, and I also cannot wait to meet the next MCs properly. I think I'm already imagining stories for alllllll the side characters, because I seriously loved them all. From Niamh and Alice to Sam and Will and Noah... I can't wait to discover what will happen next.
Anyway, regardless, I adored "Star-Crossed Betas": the world-building and pack politics were absolutely fascinating, the writing was fantastic, and the pining and romance were both out of this world. That, coupled with a fantastic cast of characters, made this book an unforgettable read, and I can't wait to read more by this author.
Thanks GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Arranged marriage with a double whammy of enemies-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers once again AND second chance romance? Shifters, pack politics, hidden secrets, betrayals, a fab cast of side characters that I already adore? Two main characters who are kinda sunshine/grumpy personified, featuring lots of pining and "I'm trying to hold a grudge here but I still love you desperately and I also find you smoking hot"? I was hooked from the very beginning.
Connor and Phoenix are wonderful protagonists. I admit, I had a soft spot for Phoenix: overburdened, responsible disaster of a man who's got a lovely golden retriever personality when he's finally able to let go? I loved him. I loved being in his head, and I seriously wanted to jump into the book and protect him. He makes mistakes sure, but he's also the self-sacrificing type: I adored how selfless and lovely he was. Connor was a bit more tricky for me to love thoroughly; I usually adore the grumpy, snarky, walls-a-mile-wide-around-their-heart kind of character, but he spent quite a lot of time jumping to conclusions when a simple question, or maybe just thinking before acting, would have saved him (and Phoenix) (and me!) a whole lot of pain and hurt. I do love prickly characters like him, but he was a smidge too mean to Phoenix at times. Anyway, that said, I did like being in his head, and I adored the character arc he goes through!
Their romance was amazing: I love a good ol' second chance romance; the pining is always so delicious, and the enemies-to-lovers subplot going on was the cherry on the cake.
I can't believe this is Emory Winters debut! I truly adored it, and I'd seriously sell my soul to the devil to have the second book already. I'm so damn curious about what will happen: despite this book having a wonderful ending, the outside plot kinda ends on a bit of cliffhanger, and I cannot wait to see what will happen, and I also cannot wait to meet the next MCs properly. I think I'm already imagining stories for alllllll the side characters, because I seriously loved them all. From Niamh and Alice to Sam and Will and Noah... I can't wait to discover what will happen next.
Anyway, regardless, I adored "Star-Crossed Betas": the world-building and pack politics were absolutely fascinating, the writing was fantastic, and the pining and romance were both out of this world. That, coupled with a fantastic cast of characters, made this book an unforgettable read, and I can't wait to read more by this author.
Thanks GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.
August 10, 2024
This was a really sweet story about two men getting a second chance at love. I kind of loved how Emory worked these tropes together. Second chance and arranged marriage?! I was like how is this going to work. But I actually loved how everything worked together.
The first half of the book is told in a Then/Now format. I fell in love with the characters as they were Then with their cute banter. Their families were bitter rivals (Romeo and Juliet vibes) and so these two had to keep their relationship secret but they were just so in love. And them in the Now was just heartbreaking. Connor in particular made me ache 🥺
The second half of the book is solely in the Now and I loved watching them tentatively fix their relationship and get to love each other freely and openly. Them starting their own little pack and how protective Connor was getting. Ughhhhh
Also who doesn’t love shifter romances where they get all snuggly in their wolf forms. Connor and Phoenix had some of the cutest playful moments when they were shifted and I ate that shit up.
I am very intrigued to read more in this world and I am literally gagging and begging Emory for Sam’s story because WTFFFF
The first half of the book is told in a Then/Now format. I fell in love with the characters as they were Then with their cute banter. Their families were bitter rivals (Romeo and Juliet vibes) and so these two had to keep their relationship secret but they were just so in love. And them in the Now was just heartbreaking. Connor in particular made me ache 🥺
The second half of the book is solely in the Now and I loved watching them tentatively fix their relationship and get to love each other freely and openly. Them starting their own little pack and how protective Connor was getting. Ughhhhh
Also who doesn’t love shifter romances where they get all snuggly in their wolf forms. Connor and Phoenix had some of the cutest playful moments when they were shifted and I ate that shit up.
I am very intrigued to read more in this world and I am literally gagging and begging Emory for Sam’s story because WTFFFF
July 13, 2024
Star-crossed Betas is an impressive debut novel! I’m looking forward to reading more books by Emory Winters.
The story, writing style, characters, everything makes it a great read. Despite not being a big fantasy or paranormal reader, I found the story easy to follow and engaging. The plot is well-crafted and the introduction of the wolf shifters, packs and witches world is very well done.
The love story between Cee and Fee is portrayed beautifully, with their relationship developing naturally over the years and creating a strong bond. They’re adorable together and they communicate a lot. Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes so I was very well fed here. I really enjoyed the way it was executed in this book and these boys are both so sweet and lovable, it was very easy to get attached to them and root for their love.
The secondary characters also play significant roles that make the story very interesting. The pack rivalries and gradual revelations of secrets throughout the story make it very exciting. There were some plot twists and I loved every single one of them.
Since it's part of a series, the ending leaves you wanting to know more with a bit of a cliffhanger. I can't wait to read more about Connor and Phoenix as they start forming their own pack and to learn more about the other characters and their own stories (some of them need to share some stuff asap, I’m not going to give names!)
Star-crossed Betas is a captivating read that I highly recommend to everyone. I really really loved it!
[ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀɴ ᴀʀᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ]
The story, writing style, characters, everything makes it a great read. Despite not being a big fantasy or paranormal reader, I found the story easy to follow and engaging. The plot is well-crafted and the introduction of the wolf shifters, packs and witches world is very well done.
The love story between Cee and Fee is portrayed beautifully, with their relationship developing naturally over the years and creating a strong bond. They’re adorable together and they communicate a lot. Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes so I was very well fed here. I really enjoyed the way it was executed in this book and these boys are both so sweet and lovable, it was very easy to get attached to them and root for their love.
The secondary characters also play significant roles that make the story very interesting. The pack rivalries and gradual revelations of secrets throughout the story make it very exciting. There were some plot twists and I loved every single one of them.
Since it's part of a series, the ending leaves you wanting to know more with a bit of a cliffhanger. I can't wait to read more about Connor and Phoenix as they start forming their own pack and to learn more about the other characters and their own stories (some of them need to share some stuff asap, I’m not going to give names!)
Star-crossed Betas is a captivating read that I highly recommend to everyone. I really really loved it!
[ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀɴ ᴀʀᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ]
April 29, 2024
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader of Emory’s debut and this is my honest review.
As someone who has only read one other shifter book, this was a wonderful introduction to the genre.
I was engaged from page one and found the book easy to follow.
The world-building was beautifully written and the characters had depth. I even connected with many of the side characters and I’m excited that this is the first in the series because I have so many suspicions and speculations.
There's also a nice mystery element to the plot.
The book really hits you with the second-chance romance vibes and it’s done in a way that makes you nervous and excited about the MCs future. It isn’t an easy road for Connor and Phoenix that’s for sure, but it’s so worth it!
There are some truly swoony moments and the spice be spicing 🔥
Overall, I adored the detail in the descriptions, the engaging dialogue and the wolfy vibes!
Would totally recommend 😊
As someone who has only read one other shifter book, this was a wonderful introduction to the genre.
I was engaged from page one and found the book easy to follow.
The world-building was beautifully written and the characters had depth. I even connected with many of the side characters and I’m excited that this is the first in the series because I have so many suspicions and speculations.
There's also a nice mystery element to the plot.
The book really hits you with the second-chance romance vibes and it’s done in a way that makes you nervous and excited about the MCs future. It isn’t an easy road for Connor and Phoenix that’s for sure, but it’s so worth it!
There are some truly swoony moments and the spice be spicing 🔥
Overall, I adored the detail in the descriptions, the engaging dialogue and the wolfy vibes!
Would totally recommend 😊
July 22, 2024
this was so cute, the banter was funny as hell & the story was wonderful. i throughly enjoyed this!
July 18, 2024
4.5 ⭐
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, author, for the opportunity.
Everyone needs to read a werewolves romance story once in a while, but if it comes with fated mates, a midnight waterfall meet-cute, a secret relationship turned arranged marriage, and crazy magic stuff happening in the background you know it’s going to be amazing 💫.
This is only the first book of a series, so there are a lot of plotlines left open for the next one and a slight cliffhanger. Although it looks like every book will be featuring a different couple, so don’t worry about the romance part.
I was surprised by how complex the world-building was. I still have a lot of questions regarding the rules of this werewolf society because a few things were different from what I'm used to. All those arranged marriages were kinda sus too, a political one is understandable but the way their parents handled it was awful and I was hoping for a confrontation at the end or something... Well, they are happy together but that’s not the point 😂.
The dual timeline was heartbreaking 😭, I wanted to enjoy their early romance but knowing the angst was coming eventually made it impossibly harder. Either way, it was worth all the suffering. They were an amazing couple. Both flawed and very human!! They made mistakes and said a lot of unnecessary shit, but that was what made them and their relationship feel very genuine. Also, the chemistry was off the charts 🔥, from that early tension to the awkward first times and then the explosive smut scenes as adults, chef kiss >>>>
Also, did I mentioned this is a debut novel? Mind-blowing 😶
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, author, for the opportunity.
Everyone needs to read a werewolves romance story once in a while, but if it comes with fated mates, a midnight waterfall meet-cute, a secret relationship turned arranged marriage, and crazy magic stuff happening in the background you know it’s going to be amazing 💫.
This is only the first book of a series, so there are a lot of plotlines left open for the next one and a slight cliffhanger. Although it looks like every book will be featuring a different couple, so don’t worry about the romance part.
I was surprised by how complex the world-building was. I still have a lot of questions regarding the rules of this werewolf society because a few things were different from what I'm used to. All those arranged marriages were kinda sus too, a political one is understandable but the way their parents handled it was awful and I was hoping for a confrontation at the end or something... Well, they are happy together but that’s not the point 😂.
The dual timeline was heartbreaking 😭, I wanted to enjoy their early romance but knowing the angst was coming eventually made it impossibly harder. Either way, it was worth all the suffering. They were an amazing couple. Both flawed and very human!! They made mistakes and said a lot of unnecessary shit, but that was what made them and their relationship feel very genuine. Also, the chemistry was off the charts 🔥, from that early tension to the awkward first times and then the explosive smut scenes as adults, chef kiss >>>>
Also, did I mentioned this is a debut novel? Mind-blowing 😶
June 4, 2024
Loved reading this book! Not normally a book I would reach for, but I was quickly captured by the story and characters and could not put it down once started! The characters are well thought out and have great depth to them. The plot is well paced and I become enthralled by the world in which Cee and Fee live. I am now impatiently waiting for the next instalment in the Northern Shifters series!
dnf
July 19, 2024Time of death 31%
This is not a book meant for me. It’s not bad, the writing is great for a debut, but it’s dragging and I’m so bored. I don’t like the back and forth of the timelines and I feel like the characters are so young, if it weren’t for the (underwhelming) sex scenes this feels like a YA book.
This is not a book meant for me. It’s not bad, the writing is great for a debut, but it’s dragging and I’m so bored. I don’t like the back and forth of the timelines and I feel like the characters are so young, if it weren’t for the (underwhelming) sex scenes this feels like a YA book.
June 22, 2024
Had the pleasure of an arc read for this and it was amazing the plot the second chance romance, the sadness and love was all perfect!!! My first wolf shifter/ pack book and I really enjoyed it!!! Looking forward to the next one in the series!!!! Pheonix and Connor <3
June 17, 2024
4.25★
So very cute.
Full rtc.
So very cute.
Full rtc.
June 4, 2024
Absolutely loved this book and read it in one day - thank you Emory for the advanced copy!!
This is not my usual genre and so i discovered what i think is a spicy book is actually Nando's lemon and herb... because this is spicy!!!
I adore the main characters even if at times you want to shake them and say "why are you doing this??" I very quickly really cared about them and Emory is very skilled at leaving you heartbroken because of Cee & Fee's very raw emotion. They are both flawed but wonderful people!
I loved the world-building and getting to know the politics and dynamics in the wolf-shifter world
The setting is beautifully described and adds a really calm scenic quality, particularly in the waterfall scenes.
The hints at the overarching story leave me wanting to know so much more... so next book now please before i dig out my trench coat and try and investigate myself, we must protect Cee & Fee at all costs!!
This is not my usual genre and so i discovered what i think is a spicy book is actually Nando's lemon and herb... because this is spicy!!!
I adore the main characters even if at times you want to shake them and say "why are you doing this??" I very quickly really cared about them and Emory is very skilled at leaving you heartbroken because of Cee & Fee's very raw emotion. They are both flawed but wonderful people!
I loved the world-building and getting to know the politics and dynamics in the wolf-shifter world
The setting is beautifully described and adds a really calm scenic quality, particularly in the waterfall scenes.
The hints at the overarching story leave me wanting to know so much more... so next book now please before i dig out my trench coat and try and investigate myself, we must protect Cee & Fee at all costs!!
May 27, 2024
5 ⭐️ this was an amazing debut from Emory and I’m so glad I got the ARC!
If you’ve never read a wolf shifter book before this is such a great place to start. At it’s core this is a beautiful second chance romance but there’s also a sprinkle of mystery, wolfy politics, betrayal, forbidden love and adorable waterfall kisses 😭😭😭
Everything was written so well and in such detail I was literally sucked in from the prologue. The setting was stunning and I am obsessed with the barn and the waterfall scenes. Also the spice was SPICY and there’s plenty of it 🥵
There were stressful and angsty moments for Phoenix and Connor and it was a hard earned HEA but I’m so glad they got there in the end. All my stars are for my emo boy Connor 🖤🖤🖤🖤
If you’ve never read a wolf shifter book before this is such a great place to start. At it’s core this is a beautiful second chance romance but there’s also a sprinkle of mystery, wolfy politics, betrayal, forbidden love and adorable waterfall kisses 😭😭😭
Everything was written so well and in such detail I was literally sucked in from the prologue. The setting was stunning and I am obsessed with the barn and the waterfall scenes. Also the spice was SPICY and there’s plenty of it 🥵
There were stressful and angsty moments for Phoenix and Connor and it was a hard earned HEA but I’m so glad they got there in the end. All my stars are for my emo boy Connor 🖤🖤🖤🖤
June 11, 2024
Being new to the genre I genuinely didn’t know what to expect. I was caught in from the start, desperately turning pages to see what would happen next. The characters feel so real and I was genuinely rooting for Fee and Cee, invested in their storylines and the lives of the other characters that share their story. I rarely cry at a book but there were times where I welled up at this beautifully and sensitively written story of love, hurt and happiness.
Star crossed beta’s has got me hooked and I can’t wait to read Winters next book!
Star crossed beta’s has got me hooked and I can’t wait to read Winters next book!
July 21, 2024
3,75/5
J'ai flashé sur la couverture de ce livre en fait, qui donne, tout comme le titre, une idée sur ce don il est question.
Nous suivons l'histoire de Phoenix et Connor, deux membres de meutes opposées, pour ne pas dire ennemies. Ces deux hommes vont devoir être liés pour le bien de tous afin de créer un pacte entre les deux meutes. Ce que personne ne sait, tout comme nous allons le comprendre au fil des pages, c'est qu'ils sont liés en réalité depuis bien longtemps.
C'est une jolie histoire de seconde chance. Grâce à des moments du passé, nous assistons à leur toute première rencontre, qui sera suivie de nombreuses autres, de leur rapprochement et bien plus. C'est une histoire de seconde chance comme j'aime en lire de temps à autre, sans trop de drama, même si j'aurais souhaité un peu plus de développement. Le côté proximité forcée du fait du mariage arrangé va réunir de nouveau ces deux loups qui ne s'étaient pas quittés en bon terme...
Il y a un bon rythme, j'ai apprécié ma lecture. Ce sont vraiment des personnages attachants, je me suis prise d'affection pour Fee et Cee (ces petits surnoms sont d'ailleurs trop chou ^^) ainsi que d'autres personnages secondaires que l'on croise au fil du récit. Je lirai la suite avec grand plaisir !
J'ai flashé sur la couverture de ce livre en fait, qui donne, tout comme le titre, une idée sur ce don il est question.
Nous suivons l'histoire de Phoenix et Connor, deux membres de meutes opposées, pour ne pas dire ennemies. Ces deux hommes vont devoir être liés pour le bien de tous afin de créer un pacte entre les deux meutes. Ce que personne ne sait, tout comme nous allons le comprendre au fil des pages, c'est qu'ils sont liés en réalité depuis bien longtemps.
C'est une jolie histoire de seconde chance. Grâce à des moments du passé, nous assistons à leur toute première rencontre, qui sera suivie de nombreuses autres, de leur rapprochement et bien plus. C'est une histoire de seconde chance comme j'aime en lire de temps à autre, sans trop de drama, même si j'aurais souhaité un peu plus de développement. Le côté proximité forcée du fait du mariage arrangé va réunir de nouveau ces deux loups qui ne s'étaient pas quittés en bon terme...
Il y a un bon rythme, j'ai apprécié ma lecture. Ce sont vraiment des personnages attachants, je me suis prise d'affection pour Fee et Cee (ces petits surnoms sont d'ailleurs trop chou ^^) ainsi que d'autres personnages secondaires que l'on croise au fil du récit. Je lirai la suite avec grand plaisir !
June 25, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up!
Winning back your ex via passive aggressive clothing theft, retaliatory coffee deprivation, and unconscious cuddling.
All vibes no thoughts this was an amazing debut novel. I generally despise second chance romances and this absolutely did it for me. I loved every fucking second and ate it up with a spoon.
Connor is the grudgiest little grudge holder and I loved him for it. He needs his own little burn book to properly keep track of all the ways Fee has wronged him. And poor Fee. He didn’t stand a chance and honestly got off light after the shit he pulled and the secrets he kept. I was heavily invested from the start and I cannot wait for book 2 (where I’m hoping eventually a certain parent will get justifiably face punched at some point).
Winning back your ex via passive aggressive clothing theft, retaliatory coffee deprivation, and unconscious cuddling.
All vibes no thoughts this was an amazing debut novel. I generally despise second chance romances and this absolutely did it for me. I loved every fucking second and ate it up with a spoon.
Connor is the grudgiest little grudge holder and I loved him for it. He needs his own little burn book to properly keep track of all the ways Fee has wronged him. And poor Fee. He didn’t stand a chance and honestly got off light after the shit he pulled and the secrets he kept. I was heavily invested from the start and I cannot wait for book 2 (where I’m hoping eventually a certain parent will get justifiably face punched at some point).
July 21, 2024
Star-Crossed Betas by Emory Winters
🧡 Wolf Shifters
🧡 Fated Mates
🧡 Arranged Marriage
🧡 Forbidden Love
🧡 Second Chance
🧡 Forced Proximity
🧡 Opposites Attract
🧡 Enemy Packs
🧡 History Teacher x Joiner
Being a debut book from a new author I wasn't sure what to expect going into this read, however I was really pleasantly surprised by this story!
I read this book in under 24 hours which is unheard of for me, it just really captured my attention and I found it hard to put down. You could really feel the intensity of the characters emotions through the writing, experiencing both the happiness and heartbreak so vividly.
The dual timelines were written really well, the author wove the past and present together so seamlessly, and I loved that we got to see so much of the five years leading up to present day.
I especially enjoyed the first 60% of the book and seeing the push and pull between the MCs. I wasn't as keen on the small time jumps that came after that and some of the situations felt a little less in line with the beginning of the story. There were also a few parts that were skimmed over and I would have liked to have seen them in more detail.
The whole story was a wild ride with lots of ups and downs and though there wasn't a cliffhanger between the mcs, there were some major plot points that were left unresolved and hinted to be resolved in the next book.
Though it had a few teething issues, for a debut fantasy novel the author did a phenomenal job and i'm excited to read the next book in the series when it releases! I'd definitely recommend everyone to give it a read if you like fantasy shifter books!
"We kiss each other; it's languid and full of gratitude for what we still have. What we grew, destroyed, and nurtured back to health."
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Humour: 🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): House fire; Historical death of a parent—off-page; Death/ dead body (broken neck); Cut with a knife/bloodletting as part of a ritual; Panic attack; Recreational cannabis use; Pregnancy (of a side character); Death threat made against a pregnant side character.
CW: anxiety, work injury (cut hand, descriptive blood), manipulation, some other man drama (mentions of one MC having sex with his best friend whilst broken up from the other MC, not on page)
🧡 Wolf Shifters
🧡 Fated Mates
🧡 Arranged Marriage
🧡 Forbidden Love
🧡 Second Chance
🧡 Forced Proximity
🧡 Opposites Attract
🧡 Enemy Packs
🧡 History Teacher x Joiner
Being a debut book from a new author I wasn't sure what to expect going into this read, however I was really pleasantly surprised by this story!
I read this book in under 24 hours which is unheard of for me, it just really captured my attention and I found it hard to put down. You could really feel the intensity of the characters emotions through the writing, experiencing both the happiness and heartbreak so vividly.
The dual timelines were written really well, the author wove the past and present together so seamlessly, and I loved that we got to see so much of the five years leading up to present day.
I especially enjoyed the first 60% of the book and seeing the push and pull between the MCs. I wasn't as keen on the small time jumps that came after that and some of the situations felt a little less in line with the beginning of the story. There were also a few parts that were skimmed over and I would have liked to have seen them in more detail.
The whole story was a wild ride with lots of ups and downs and though there wasn't a cliffhanger between the mcs, there were some major plot points that were left unresolved and hinted to be resolved in the next book.
Though it had a few teething issues, for a debut fantasy novel the author did a phenomenal job and i'm excited to read the next book in the series when it releases! I'd definitely recommend everyone to give it a read if you like fantasy shifter books!
"We kiss each other; it's languid and full of gratitude for what we still have. What we grew, destroyed, and nurtured back to health."
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Humour: 🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): House fire; Historical death of a parent—off-page; Death/ dead body (broken neck); Cut with a knife/bloodletting as part of a ritual; Panic attack; Recreational cannabis use; Pregnancy (of a side character); Death threat made against a pregnant side character.
CW: anxiety, work injury (cut hand, descriptive blood), manipulation, some other man drama (mentions of one MC having sex with his best friend whilst broken up from the other MC, not on page)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2024
{STAR-CROSSED BETAS}
Arc review by Jessie Melka
__________•__________
“He's absolutely breathtaking. And he's mine. My mate, my husband, my forever.”
Conner and Phoenix are the beta sons of the Alpha’s in the enemy pack’s they are fated mates but they have to stay in the shadows they want to be together but forces work against them even though they managed to keep the relationship and secrets for five years.
Everything goes to shit when the packs want a piece treachery so they decide that their children must marry in order for it to become set in stone unfortunately Connor is already promised to another so Phoenix has to marry his twin sister but all he had to do was call it off, so why didn’t he?
“Cee is standing under the waterfall’s spray with his eyes closed, letting the water cascade over his shoulders. He looks like a fallen angel, a frankly unreasonably sexy fallen angel sent here to tempt me into doing some very ungodly things to him.”
There was so much good spies in this book. They had really good chemistry obviously they were mates and I’m so happy that they finally got mate even through there complicated horrible history.
But seriously, I have great beef with Conner/cee I was not a big fan of how he deal with things and there were so many moments. I just wanted to scream at him and say “open your eyes for fuck sake can you see what’s going on?” Not even to talk about phoenix/fee’s mother I mean, I really hope she gets coming to her
“As we get closer, I take another deep inhale. I’m engulfed by the seductive scent I’d been following earlier. Damp earth and lavender—it’s him. The scent settles something deep inside me, a scent that says home. A scent that says mine.”
I devoured this book read it in one full setting. It’s been so long since I’ve read a good wolf shifter’s book. I had give this a 5/5 stars I love the plot and I love the writing and I am so excited for the next book in the series, I hope they get to the bottom of the fires and the murder, I’m also a big fan of Noah’s so I hope it goes well
I don’t have much criticism, except I would really have liked to have a better understanding of how these wolf shifters work usually when I read a book about werewolves I get more inside on how shifting works and the general pack business
This is such an extraordinary Debut and I think Emory should be very proud of her work because it is amazing and I most certainly proud of this amazing baby author
(I Received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion)
🐺MM ROMANCE
🔥SECOND CHANCE
🐺FATED MATES
🔥ARRANGED MARRIAGE
🐺FORBIDDEN LOVE
🔥FORCED PROXIMITY
__________•__________
Arc review by Jessie Melka
__________•__________
“He's absolutely breathtaking. And he's mine. My mate, my husband, my forever.”
Conner and Phoenix are the beta sons of the Alpha’s in the enemy pack’s they are fated mates but they have to stay in the shadows they want to be together but forces work against them even though they managed to keep the relationship and secrets for five years.
Everything goes to shit when the packs want a piece treachery so they decide that their children must marry in order for it to become set in stone unfortunately Connor is already promised to another so Phoenix has to marry his twin sister but all he had to do was call it off, so why didn’t he?
“Cee is standing under the waterfall’s spray with his eyes closed, letting the water cascade over his shoulders. He looks like a fallen angel, a frankly unreasonably sexy fallen angel sent here to tempt me into doing some very ungodly things to him.”
There was so much good spies in this book. They had really good chemistry obviously they were mates and I’m so happy that they finally got mate even through there complicated horrible history.
But seriously, I have great beef with Conner/cee I was not a big fan of how he deal with things and there were so many moments. I just wanted to scream at him and say “open your eyes for fuck sake can you see what’s going on?” Not even to talk about phoenix/fee’s mother I mean, I really hope she gets coming to her
“As we get closer, I take another deep inhale. I’m engulfed by the seductive scent I’d been following earlier. Damp earth and lavender—it’s him. The scent settles something deep inside me, a scent that says home. A scent that says mine.”
I devoured this book read it in one full setting. It’s been so long since I’ve read a good wolf shifter’s book. I had give this a 5/5 stars I love the plot and I love the writing and I am so excited for the next book in the series, I hope they get to the bottom of the fires and the murder, I’m also a big fan of Noah’s so I hope it goes well
I don’t have much criticism, except I would really have liked to have a better understanding of how these wolf shifters work usually when I read a book about werewolves I get more inside on how shifting works and the general pack business
This is such an extraordinary Debut and I think Emory should be very proud of her work because it is amazing and I most certainly proud of this amazing baby author
(I Received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion)
🐺MM ROMANCE
🔥SECOND CHANCE
🐺FATED MATES
🔥ARRANGED MARRIAGE
🐺FORBIDDEN LOVE
🔥FORCED PROXIMITY
__________•__________
July 7, 2024
I received an ARC of this book and I’m writing my honest review ✨
“For everyone who's into the wine and not the label.”
This book had me from the dedication.
Connor is the pettiest and I love him for it. He’s such a grump but a total cinnamon roll at the same time.
Phoenix is the adult sunshine of the relationship but I loved that he could also get petty when he wanted to.
I loved the flashbacks, they were greatly written and well spaced out, like you could understand some things but still keep the mystery alive.
The side characters were amazing and I loved how we got to know a few of them in depth. I’m hoping we’ll see more of them in the future installments.
And finally: the plot. God I loved it. I really wanted to know everything right away so I read it as fast as I could (and I had to work so that was hard). It’s very stress-full that I still don’t know everything but I’ll gladly wait for the next book 😂
“For everyone who's into the wine and not the label.”
This book had me from the dedication.
Connor is the pettiest and I love him for it. He’s such a grump but a total cinnamon roll at the same time.
Phoenix is the adult sunshine of the relationship but I loved that he could also get petty when he wanted to.
I loved the flashbacks, they were greatly written and well spaced out, like you could understand some things but still keep the mystery alive.
The side characters were amazing and I loved how we got to know a few of them in depth. I’m hoping we’ll see more of them in the future installments.
And finally: the plot. God I loved it. I really wanted to know everything right away so I read it as fast as I could (and I had to work so that was hard). It’s very stress-full that I still don’t know everything but I’ll gladly wait for the next book 😂
July 18, 2024
SOLID debut - I’m already looking forward to book 2! I loved the natural progression of their romance, plus I’ve found I really like the dual timelines. I felt like the shifter aspect was a little unique and I appreciated it.
I think for me I started to drag a little, but in general I really enjoyed these characters and always looked forward to reading them.
I think for me I started to drag a little, but in general I really enjoyed these characters and always looked forward to reading them.
June 25, 2024
I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
This book is the debut book from Emory Winters, and it definitely was a smashing success.
Cee and Fee are wonderfully complex characters and have diverse personalities that shine through the use of the timeline and their POV’s. I liked the angst that this story gave but also how it was resolved and the side cast of characters who further expanded the world and the personalities of the main characters. It was nice to see the interactions between Cee with his twin and Will and Fee with his brothers and Alice. Overall the love story is well earned and worthy of a good swoon.
I found the writing crisp and clear and it never felt like the story was dragging too much. I really liked the use of time and how the POV was used to build suspense and get me really invested into the characters.
Overall this was a wonderful book and I can’t wait for the next book!
This book is the debut book from Emory Winters, and it definitely was a smashing success.
Cee and Fee are wonderfully complex characters and have diverse personalities that shine through the use of the timeline and their POV’s. I liked the angst that this story gave but also how it was resolved and the side cast of characters who further expanded the world and the personalities of the main characters. It was nice to see the interactions between Cee with his twin and Will and Fee with his brothers and Alice. Overall the love story is well earned and worthy of a good swoon.
I found the writing crisp and clear and it never felt like the story was dragging too much. I really liked the use of time and how the POV was used to build suspense and get me really invested into the characters.
Overall this was a wonderful book and I can’t wait for the next book!
March 13, 2025
This wasn’t a bad book per se but like the way Connor would freak out and then phoenix would just like roll over was just like exhausting after the 3rd time.
I enjoyed this authors other series way more the characters felt more interesting :/
I enjoyed this authors other series way more the characters felt more interesting :/
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