A Crimson Fate

Veil of Moonlight #1

by C.M. Haines

A love so strong even a curse can’t keep them apart.

Stealing a witch in the middle of the night may have been a bad idea, but Gabriel is desperate to save his people, and he's running out of time. There are just two problems…

Brinley doesn't know how to access her magic, and she would never help the DeLoup after all they've taken from her. At least, that's what she thinks.

The truth is so much worse, and if Gabriel can't get her to remember her past—their past—then the last remains of his broken heart may finally shatter beyond repair.

***
A Crimson Fate is a spicy Beauty and the Beast retelling with wolf shifters, witches, and magic! It is intended for 18+ audiences, as there are graphic scenes and darker themes. Content warnings can be found in the beginning of the book or on the author's website.

This is the first book in a paranormal fantasy series inspired by fairy tales and other stories of the past. While each book features new main characters and a different retelling, there is a bigger story building throughout each, which will make more sense if you read them in order.

Recommended
A Crimson Fate
A Cursed Slumber
Book 3 Title TBA
Book 4 Title TBA

434 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2024

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

[I've read this when it was in the anthology Realm of Midnight, so this is a "copy/paste" review!]

Brinley Evnar, Crown Princess of Reinous and future High Sorceress, has lived her life hating the DeLoup (wolf shifters). They've taken everything from her, including her family. Now she's imprisoned by those she hates the most, but Brinley won't give up without a fight, even though she's not able to access her magic yet.

Gabriel Ferway is the Alpha of the Crimson Pack and determined to save the people he loves from a curse. He's convinced that Brinley's the key, but how will he persuade her to help?

This is a steamy retelling of The Beauty and the Beast and for sure one of the best books I've read this year! Haines had me invested in the characters from the beginning, and although I love most retellings, The Beauty and the Beast is a favorite! The main characters are well developed and grow throughout the book, and we get both Brinley's and Gabriel's POV's. The side characters might be a bit one-dimensional, but I fell in love with most of them anyway, and I expect they will get more substance when they get their own book later on in the series.

Secrets are revealed in intervals and that makes me want to keep on reading to know more. At the same time I didn't want the book to end, and I tried to draw it out, even though I had a deadline (sorry about that!). It's not often I feel like starting over once I finished a book, but this is one of those moments! Unfortunatly there's too many other books for me to read, so I hope Haines won't keep me waiting too long for the next book, where we will learn more about Gabriel's little sister Rose and his beta Paxton!

[Crystal Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an avid lover of The Beauty and the Beast, I had to read this book! Now it was more of a spin of the retelling, but it was still so good.

I thought her take on the rose was excellent and done so well. This is a witch/wolf shape shifter Beauty and the Beast retelling. I was hooked instantly! It begins right away with the fast paced writing filled with suspense, magic, and fantasy.

I loved the storyline of Brinley and Gabriel. Gabriel’s pack was placed under a curse by the deceitful queen and he kidnaps Brinley in hopes to break the curse.

[Lillie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to C.M. Haines for allowing me to read a copy of this book. I am just so happy that I read this book. I feel like this was perfect for the in between for Halloween and Christmas. And it gave me what I needed right now with the adventure, the wonderful characters, the immersive world, and a plot that had me wanting more and more. If you like books like Court of Vampires by Megan Linski or even some of the popular romantasy books out there, definitely check this book out. I highly recommend it.

[Devika · Rating 4 out of 5]

C.M. Haines has managed to write a magical loving story. I really loved Brinley, Gabriel and the rest of the pack. Even though this is a Beauty & the Beast retelling, the fairytale hardly shows through. A Crimson Fate is really it's own unique story. The enemies to lovers, forbidden love and fated mate tropes made this story a true romantasy to devour!

Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Zareia is my home; you are my home, Gabriel. You're my mate, and once this curse is broken, I don't plan on ever leaving you again."~Brinley

Wooo!! That was... crazy good. I was wrapped up on this epic story. I started reading and it was difficult to stop. What a world this turned out to be. It's got layers and layers but it plays out with all these history bits and current details in a fascinating way. It has Beauty and the Beast elements, some hints of Little Red Riding Hood too. Brinley wore a red cape to go see her villainous Grandmother with two special wolves by her side.😉 Don't forget. Hehe

Brinley, a young woman who's true heritage and past has been wiped away then remolded to serve a purpose for the Queendom herself, her wicked Granny, is about to have her entire world dismantled. Brinley has no idea who she really is. She knows she's a witch in training but there's so much more to her. She's capable of many many things. Until one night while celebrating her 21st birthday sudden chaos, death, and a brooding dark stranger will bring fire and realization to her cloudy world. She's not prepared. But she's wants to explore it. With him. Brinley is sweet and sassy. She wants to belong somewhere, to a family she can lean on. Feel safe. I liked her.

Gabriel is the leader of his Crimson Pack, a huge family of DeLoups, who are running against a curse that is slowly coming to a close. It effects everyone, especially his younger sister Rose.🥀 I loved all the wolf shifters. Pax. Rose. Joel. Twins Dare and Daci. Each one had great personality. Gabriel is a no nonsense type, he can't speak on things, part of the curse, but the guy has deep emotions. He's kind to Brinley, never cruel. He's been through it. Emotional. Physical. He has a great deal weighing on him. He spiraled. And he knows that Brinley is the key. She's his forever, his bijou, his mate, but how can he get her to realize what is truth and what is a lie when she doesn't remember who he is. What will happen next?!🙉🙊🙈 No spoilers.

If you like magical fantasy, witches, wolves, battles, a race against time, drama, betrayals, lies, oh and some spice🔥🐺🔥, then this book is for you. It's written well. Like I wrote earlier there's layers and plot to this story. It kept my attention throughout. PS It does end on a cliffhanger. But it's written in such a way that I'm hyped for book 2. I want to see what happens next. Pax and Rosie. Let's gooo. Bring on the magic.🪄✨✨✨✨ I enjoyed it very much. Well done, Ms Haines. Great book cover. I highly recommend. Happy reading.❤️❤️❤️❤️

🥀🐺🏰Thank you to Ms Haines and Bookfunnel for an early book. I'm voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts on the story I read. Get your book today.🏰🐺🥀

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️

I adore fairytale stories being reimagined by current authors and putting their own spin on them. Haines does not disappoint in this book with her reimagining of Beauty and the Beast and two enemies finding something more with each other. Even though they are fated mates, their love story was not easily written. With obstacles in every direction our MCs had to fight to be together, though not long ago were fighting each other.

Brinley believes herself to be one thing, but is actually another entirely. Being used by those she thinks love her, she soon discovers there is more to her than what she has been raised knowing. Brinley is resilient, hard working, and determined. I loved her heart, but hurt knowing she was being lied to. She was someone that was easy to like and connect with. When her truth began to catch up to her, I couldn’t read fast enough. At the same time I didn't want this story to end.

Gabriel is the leader of the Crimson Pack, desperate to break a curse that is dwindling their numbers. I loved the dynamic of the pack members that we got to know. They are truly family to one another, but beyond the pack connection. The curse doesn’t allow certain things to be discussed, but when Brinley is brought into the fold, they are all kind to her. They know who she really is, but how do they get her to realize this when they can’t speak about it?

Haines truly pulled me in with this story. I loved everything about it and can’t wait for more in the series. I loved the tension not only between Gabriel and Brinley, but also the race against time that brought tension as well. This story has so many layers revealed throughout the read and the journey is well worth the read! I highly recommend it!!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

Tropes:
🐺Wolf Shifter MMC
💞Witch FMC
🐺Enemies to Lovers
💞Forbidden Romance
🐺Beauty and Beast Reimagining
💞Touch him and 💀

[Susan May · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story. I really enjoyed this one. It had some rather spicey moments but not to bad. I found it to be well written with outstanding characters. It's filled with curses, lies, magic, friendship and truth.
Brinley's village was attacked by wolves. Her people were slaughtered. She was well hidden because she was heir to the throne. Eventually she was found by Gabe an alpha werewolf. He studied her and then decided to take her with him. Brinley was terrified. All her life she had been taught that these were monsters and should be killed. She quickly realized that wasn't the case. Gabe told her it wasn't his pack that had attacked her village. He also told her that her grandmother, the only family she had left was responsible for casting a curse on his pack. They were not able to leave the village in human form only in wolf form. Brinley didn't believe him at first but then he started revealing more. She finally stopped trying to escape and started believing his words. Gabe wanted them to break the curse together but it would be difficult since Brinley had no idea how to use her magic and the curse prevented Gabe from speaking of it. They worked out a system where Brinley could ask him questions and he would tap her hand for yes and not tap for no. As Brinley started trying to help she realized her grandmother had wiped her memories of Gabe. They were childhood friends and Gabe was falling in love with her. She believed her grandmother had lied to her about everything. She was determined to find answers and end the curse on Gabe, his pack and his sister Rose. She knew in her heart that Gabe was her mate and her grandmother was an evil liar.
This is an exceptional story and can’t wait for the next one.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Veil of Moonlight series, A Crimson Fate by C.M. Haines, brings a fresh take on the classic enemies-to-lovers romance, set in a world of wolf shifters, witches, and curses.

Both Gabriel and Brinley have compelling arcs. Brinley grows as she challenges her preconceived beliefs about the DeLoup, while Gabriel learns that love requires patience and understanding. Their motivations are well-explained, and readers will connect with Brinley’s grief and Gabriel’s desperation to save his people.

The world feels immersive, though there’s room for further development, particularly with the witches and magic system. Brinley’s struggle to access her powers is well-handled, and I hope future books dive deeper into the magical elements.

The chemistry between Gabriel and Brinley is believable, with well-written romantic and spicy moments. The enemies to lovers and forbidden romance tropes work effectively, especially as outside forces oppose their relationship.

The story is well-paced, keeping readers engaged without dragging. The Beauty and the Beast retelling adds a fresh twist without being too obvious.

I’d recommend this book to fans of spicy romance, werewolves, witches, and rich storytelling. If you’re a fan of Harry Potter or Teen Wolf, but crave something geared toward adults, this book is definitely for you.

[Laura Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall: 4.5⭐️/5; Spice: 3🌶️/5

C.M. Haines is officially an auto-buy author from me after this book (I first discovered her writing while reading Cursed by Darkness, and LOVED her style).

A Crimson Fate is another fairytale retelling (of Beauty and the Beast), and she absolutely hit it out of the park. It reminded me a bit of another very famous series that starts with the same fairytale inspiration, and idea of a curse that cannot be spoken of by its victims… except the FMC, witch and heir to the Queendom, Brinley, is ACTUALLY smart enough to figure out that something is not right and ACTUALLY tries to help figure out how to break the curse. One thing I also really enjoy about Haines’ FMCs is that even though they have magic, they often have to rely on their wits, courage, and trust in their friends to save the day.

The attraction between Brinley and Gabriel is absolutely delicious, and I loved the way that the fated mates connection was woven into the story and curse. I appreciated that while we had some lust at first sight (and who doesn’t love a good rage-f**king scene??), the romance and connection was allowed to develop organically over time in a way that believable.

I did not realize that this was the start of a series, but I loved where this book ended. It felt like there was closure while leaving enough open for a much bigger storyline in the next book. And the pairing for the next book, Pax and Rose, has already captured my heart - I will be very ready to return to this world and this cast of characters over and over again!

Special thanks to the author for an ARC copy of this novel to review!!

[Leigh W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brinley, heir to the High Sorceress, is finally going home after being hidden for her safety for 6 years. She has been hiding from the DeLoups that have been hunting the Les Sorcières and killed her family. They are dangerous, monstrous people who keep the war between the two factions alive. While stopping for the night and trying to celebrate her birthday, the village is attacked and she is kidnapped by a DeLoup pack. Now being held prisoner, the alpha clearly has plans for her but she cannot figure out the game he is playing. He claims she isn’t being held captive, that her memories have been tampered with, and so far his only rule is to stay away from the top floor. She knows something isn’t right and she is determined to figure out what while trying to regain her freedom. Gabriel finally found Brinley but she isn’t whole. She cannot remember her time with them or the friends that she has there. And with her memories clearly tampered with, he cannot ask her to help with their dilemma. His hope for fixing his pack and his sister is crumbling as she fights harder against them and refuses to believe anything he says. Gabriel desperately needs to reach her before it is too late to save his home.

What an interesting take on Beauty and the Beast. The elements were there but different in a way that they weren’t unrecognizable. I love her take on the rose and how that story element was transformed. I did enjoy her approach to the shifter/werewolf idea. That there wasn’t a massive internal power struggle, that Gabriel’s friends were allowed to ask questions and challenge him to a point. I feel as the plot developed that Brinley had way too much faith in a certain person but that was on purpose. We saw the events and could see the person for what they were and it was an emotional gut punch for her when she realized it for herself. Definitely filled with explicit scenes for those looking for spice. Some secret holding was had but at the same time there were valid reasons for the secrets. Overall, an enjoyable read for me and I look forward to book 2.

[Ashley Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite retellings are beauty and the beast. There is nothing better than two completely opposite people being able to discover that they are completely meant for each other and need each other at a soul crushingly deep level.

In this amazing version, Haines takes Brinley, who is a witch (who also happens to be a princess), and thrusts her into the den of wolves who are desperate to find a witch to break their curse. Enter Gabriel. He is the Alpha of the pack and will do anything to save his pack, especially his sister, Rose. With a group of friends who will go the distance for each other, and evil characters who rival the best I have read in ages (which include family members!), the curses are tangled as a web and difficult to determine how to solve. As time starts dwindling, will Gabriel win Brinley over to his side after the witches and wolves have been at war for as long as they both have known or will time run out?

This book moved so quickly I couldn't put it down. Only the need for sleep and batteries dying on my kindle (with the occasional requirement of work as well) could make me separate from my kindle. The story was told in such a way that you become so involved and wrapped into it that you forget about the real world while reading. We all need that kind of distraction right now which is why its the perfect read as soon as you can grab it. Go and pick this one up quickly if you love to read: fated mates, enemies to lovers, fairy tale retelling, multiple POV, magic, fantasy, curses, race against time, forbidden romance, shifters, and supernatural

[Idalia Helaena · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A Crimson Fate” is a spicy Beauty and the Beast retelling by CM Haines, and I thought it was absolutely amazing. Gabriel and Brinley’s love story was beautifully written, and I really enjoyed reading about them.

Gabriel had a lot on his shoulders, but I really think he always tried to do what was best for his pack and for the people he cared about. He was fiercely loyal and incredibly kindhearted, which made him an extremely likable character.

In the beginnning, I wanted to be mad at Brinley for the way she treated the wolf shifters, but she had been through a lot of trauma and I knew she needed to work through it - which luckily she did! I thought she was strong, confident, and sassy, all great personality traits that made her fun to read about.

I also truly enjoyed all the interactions involving Paxton, Gabriel’s beta and best friend, and Rosalyn, Gabriel’s younger sister. No spoilers, but that cliffhanger ending had me screeching, and I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series!

[Ginny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witches and Wolves are at odds in a Sleeping Beauty meets Beauty and the Beast, with a Serpent & Dove vibe. I LOVED it and cannot wait for more.

This juicy enemies to lovers with fated mate bonds is full of easy to love characters and an easy to hate villain. Fated mates is not a favorite troupe of mine but CM Haines did a great job. It takes a bit to get to the core of the drama but I enjoyed being forced to be patient and didn’t get bored waiting for the answers. I did occasionally feel impatient but I found myself invested in the characters and needed things to start working out for them! (Not impatient bc I didn’t enjoy the story anymore)

Hopefully someday, they will all get their happily every after. I have some people shipped in my mind so I can’t wait to see if they end up together. The next books can’t come out fast enough!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved still retelling. The plot was interesting and left me wanting to know what is going to happen next, so much so that I devoured this book in a single day. The world building with the political and magical system was explained nicely in bits throughout the story, which I prefer over a large exposition dump. I even enjoyed the multi POV.

The wealth of characters are great. The main characters drive the story and Brinley and Gabriel are likeable layered, but the extra characters are the ones that really make this story rich. You really get a sense of their personalities and even though you don’t always learn their whole life story you still get the sense that they have one.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys an action-packed romantasy with some spice.

[Paula Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you were in fantasy books that have witches, werewolves, and oh my, look no further. This book has evil grandmothers, That's alsowitch, unforbidden romances that some may end in tragedy, hidden secrets, and a whole Lotta spice! I was a little bit standoffish by how long this book was, but I ate it up. now you mined knew it did take me five days but I read it mostly, while I was at work and I work in a hospital if that tells you anything. It was gut wrenching, I was involved from the first chapter and I needed to know what was gonna happen with that being said the ending left me waiting for the next book. I am so obsessed. This is my family now I must know what's happening with my family! I know it's not polite to ask the author when the next book will be, but I will be on the edge of my seat waiting!

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW this was a great book. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was intense. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. It was addicted. Witches vs Wolves it was complicated of forbidden love. Gabriel and Zareia chemistry was too hot and the physical attraction was tension of love with a sweet romance of an fairytale connection. It was forbidden love affair in the moon light but the connection between them was so strong and passionate. It was like the beauty and the beast on the dark side of a fairy tail.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones

[Adrianna Heaney-velu · Rating 4 out of 5]

“A Crimson Fate,” by CM Haines

What I liked:
-The characters. I love a confident bisexual MMC! The main characters were solid, and I liked the way they interacted with each other and the side characters.
-The romance. I really liked the romance build-up throughout the book. It was well paced and kept me interested in when they would actually get it together.
-The tropes. I love beauty and the beast retelling. I also love shifters, fated mates, witches, enemies to lovers, forbidden love, and kidnapping stuff throughout the book.

4 out of 5 stars, it was a fun read.

-Shifters, Witches
-Beauty and the Beast Retelling
-Fated Mates
-Enemies To Lovers
-Forbidden Love
-Amnesia
-Kidnapped
-Dual POV
-F/M but M is bisexual

Thank you for the free copy, Booksprout.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one of the Veil of Moonlight series. It’s a wolf shifter, witch Beauty and the Beast retelling. You’re drawn right away into the mystery that the story unravels chapter by chapter. Amazing world building that is detailed and imaginable. Fascinating characters that are well developed and diverse. The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with magic, Fae, danger, death, politics, intrigue, and subterfuge. The plot thickens, the suspense builds, and the passion erupts! I can’t wait to read the rest of this series. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twists and turns - a paranormal delight!

Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2024

This beauty and the beast retelling contains several unique twists which makes it a must read. There were moments I was on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. Each chapter that ended on a cliffhanger forced me to continue reading late into the night, as all good books do! If you are looking for intrigue, adventure, and otherworldly conflict, choose this book next!

As always, the characters had depth, with interesting personalities and back stories shining through.

I wholeheartedly recommend!

[Vivien Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really well done paranormal fantasy, a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I always love good fairytale stories. But add spicy scenes? And witches and wolf shifters? Yes please! And I love the fated mates trope. MFC Brinley is a princess (but also a witch). Gabriel, the MMC, is Alpha of the wolf pack and they are in danger. He needs a witch to break the curse that was made on the pack. But there's a problem. Her memories are missing and she doesn't know how to use her magic. This story is edge of your seat suspense, action and romance. There was a lot going on to keep my interest. I can't wait to see what book two has in store.

[I8mzbhvn2 · Rating 5 out of 5]

C.M. Haines blew this retelling out of the park! If I could rate this book higher than 5 stars, I definitely would! I love love love this book! I was fortunate enough to be one of the ARC readers, and let me say, I'm so glad! If you love retellings as much as I do, then THIS book is for you. I couldn't put it down. It is most definitely in my top 3 favorite retellings. Awesome plot line, flows together nicely, and keeps you wanting more. I won't give any spoilers, but all I can say is READ THIS BOOK! You won't be disappointed!

[Shayay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the whole unremembered past scenario, and the magical elements and curses are fun! Also love how the romance develops! Have a bit of enemies to more going on, which is an entertaining scenario. Enjoy that this is Beauty and the Beast inspired as well; that’s one of my favorites! Add in shifters and I’m loving it! Gabriel’s pack is under a curse, so he’s hoping Brinley can help solve his problem. Brinley is in for some major surprises; she has been kept in the dark about some majorly important things. An interesting read!

[Vivian R Wyatt-Aldrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A crimson fate is a fantastic story about a man trying to save his pack and trying to bring the love of his life back from the dark.

This is a beautiful story is not only spicy, but a true testimony to the bonds of love. No matter how far apart two people get, if they are truly meant to be together then nothing can stop them.

The twists and turns of this story will for sure keep you guessing. Adventure packed as well as comidical at times, the story of these two enemies to lovers is truly one of a kind you can't miss!

[A Story Explorer · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @ 32%

I liked what I read but I think that maybe I prefer a faster pace as I found myself skimming for the more interesting parts. I also didn't connect with the MCs as much as I had hoped. I also would have liked a little more world and magic development.

I liked that the FMC and MMC had a history but would have liked more of a reason why it was kept a secret. I wished that we explored more about the magic and shifting abilities.

2.2 out of 5 rating for me!

(An ARC was provided for an honest review. I leave this review voluntarily.)

[Dana Ethridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love a classic retelling of one of their favorite fairy tale stories! A Crimson Fate does just that with a spicy retelling of Beauty and the Beast that includes wolf shifters, witches and even magic.

After being kidnaped by the DeLoup Pack Brinley is going to have to rely on the Alpha Gabriel to help get her memories back. Gabriel needs Brinley to use her magic to break the curse that was put on the pack.

This is just the first book in the Veil of Moonlight Series by C.M. Haines. Can’t wait to see what book 2 A Cursed Slumber brings.

[Michelle Alyse · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Bewuty and the best and I absolutely love a great retelling!

I was instantly hooked because werewolves (obviously) and witches. My two favorite beings ever!

Brinley and Gabriel are well thought out and super well connected plot wise the deeper the story goes on. You grow to understand the disdain Brinley shows as well as the desperation Gabriel shows just wanting to save his people.

Spicy
curse filled
Supernatural

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a fantastic read! The plot and worldbuilding were incredibly well-crafted, and I loved the unique storytelling style. Following the FMC as she navigated her memory loss and pieced together the mysteries alongside us was such a brilliant touch, giving the whole story a sense of discovery and suspense. This is one I’d definitely recommend to anyone looking for an immersive and well-built story!

[Stealthy Dragon 623 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Retellings are a hit or miss and this one was a hit for me! I love the growth with the main characters and the support of the side characters. There were a lot of great twists and turns through out that kept me intrigued. CM Haines writes a great curse story and this was no different. I can not wait for book 2!!

Thanks to the author for sending me the arc and giving me the opportunity to read the book before hand ♡

[Dracos Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love this book . the way the character Gabe and Brinley how they have to find there way back to each other just is a heart stopper . I hate what the grandmother done to them . also what she did to brinleys parents was tragic. I feel so bad for Rose and pax you could tell that they love each other . I enjoyed this book so much can't wait for the next part of the story.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love fairytale retelling stories, and this Beauty & the Beast one was just what I needed! Brinley & Gabriel’s true love made me laugh, cry, and swoon a little for Gabriel & Paxton too. I thought I knew where the story was going but I was wrong in a good way. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!