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Sweetwater Pack #5
His Temporary Alpha Mate
The beta sickness has given the betas of the Sweetwater pack a chance at a new life, with the caveat that they must fulfill the conditions set by their goddess, of course.
Dalton needs an alpha to make the change. With his first plan thwarted, Dalton finds solace in his growing friendship with Larken. He learns Larken is an alpha he can rely on, someone he could really care for.
Larken is struggling. With Dalton, he discovers peace and a deeper friendship than he's ever known. Being Dalton's alpha for the testing is a two birds, one stone situation. So what if it comes with complicated feelings?
As Dalton finds himself a temporary alpha in Larken, the two grow closer while making Dalton's dreams come true. Do either of them even want this to be a mating of convenience?
The path to happiness isn't easy. Tensions outside of the pack are higher than ever and temptations to slip into old habits are everywhere for Dalton. To please his goddess, Dalton must stay the course to create the family he's always yearned for.
His Temporary Alpha Mate is the fifth and penultimate book in the Sweetwater Pack series and is best read after His Impossible Elf Mate. There will be incidents of violence. Larken has a tragic past, and there is a minor cliffhanger ending.
Dalton needs an alpha to make the change. With his first plan thwarted, Dalton finds solace in his growing friendship with Larken. He learns Larken is an alpha he can rely on, someone he could really care for.
Larken is struggling. With Dalton, he discovers peace and a deeper friendship than he's ever known. Being Dalton's alpha for the testing is a two birds, one stone situation. So what if it comes with complicated feelings?
As Dalton finds himself a temporary alpha in Larken, the two grow closer while making Dalton's dreams come true. Do either of them even want this to be a mating of convenience?
The path to happiness isn't easy. Tensions outside of the pack are higher than ever and temptations to slip into old habits are everywhere for Dalton. To please his goddess, Dalton must stay the course to create the family he's always yearned for.
His Temporary Alpha Mate is the fifth and penultimate book in the Sweetwater Pack series and is best read after His Impossible Elf Mate. There will be incidents of violence. Larken has a tragic past, and there is a minor cliffhanger ending.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2024
37 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
August 27, 2024
I have been an avid fan of Larken since Roan's book. I mean, he's not my Axel who will always be my #1 in this series, but Larken is definitely up there with my favs. He's always been a stand up alpha and the fact that he's a komodo dragon is hella cool in my book. I don't think I've ever read another book with that kind of shifter so I was excited to learn more.
Dalton is a total sweetheart. My heart had already hurt for him after Axel's book, so I was so happy Stuart gave him such an amazing alpha in Larken. What started out as a temporary mating in order for Dalton to finally have the baby he so desperately wanted turned out to be the best thing to ever happen to him.
I loved how these two were friends first. They already had such a strong bond before their mating began, and I don't think either of them ever truly felt their mating was a farce, for lack of a better term. Fate certainly didn't. Dalton's pregnancy certainly provided quite a large number of reasons for these two to make it work. Don't worry, it will make more sense when you read it ;).
I can't finish this review without mentioning two things. One: Ingal is an absolute precious elf and he WILL be getting a book because I promise to pester this author every day until she agrees. And two: THAT CLIFFHANGER ENDING!!! EVIL! To be fair, it was a soft cliffhanger not involving the MCs HEA don't worry, but holy shit. I want it. NOW
Dalton is a total sweetheart. My heart had already hurt for him after Axel's book, so I was so happy Stuart gave him such an amazing alpha in Larken. What started out as a temporary mating in order for Dalton to finally have the baby he so desperately wanted turned out to be the best thing to ever happen to him.
I loved how these two were friends first. They already had such a strong bond before their mating began, and I don't think either of them ever truly felt their mating was a farce, for lack of a better term. Fate certainly didn't. Dalton's pregnancy certainly provided quite a large number of reasons for these two to make it work. Don't worry, it will make more sense when you read it ;).
I can't finish this review without mentioning two things. One: Ingal is an absolute precious elf and he WILL be getting a book because I promise to pester this author every day until she agrees. And two: THAT CLIFFHANGER ENDING!!! EVIL! To be fair, it was a soft cliffhanger not involving the MCs HEA don't worry, but holy shit. I want it. NOW
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August 17, 2024Proofing done. Time to get arcs and the paperback ready!
September 8, 2024
This is my favorite!! Out of the entire series and I have loved them all, Dalton and Larken captured my heart. Dalton wanted a baby so badly, he was in love with his friend, and then his friend moved on without him. Heartbreaking in the moment and heartmending when he built a friendship with Larken.
Larken was in a similar boat. He cared for Roan, considered him his best friend only to be tossed aside without a thought. Do I like Roan? Oh there were times, I disliked him strongly, but Jax Stuart is an incredible writer. She turned the situationship around. Roan’s eyes were opened and he became a better friend and person to his mates and Larken.
One of my favorite things about this series is the timeline. Once you start reading the books, you realize that everything is happening simultaneously. That not only takes you back to previous books, it keeps rooted in Sweetwater. This series is so amazing to me. It captures all my attention and keeps me wanting more. I can’t wait to find out who the mate is to that beautiful dragon. I have thoughts. I can’t wait to see the baby oras and raccoons grow up. This is an exciting series!!
Larken was in a similar boat. He cared for Roan, considered him his best friend only to be tossed aside without a thought. Do I like Roan? Oh there were times, I disliked him strongly, but Jax Stuart is an incredible writer. She turned the situationship around. Roan’s eyes were opened and he became a better friend and person to his mates and Larken.
One of my favorite things about this series is the timeline. Once you start reading the books, you realize that everything is happening simultaneously. That not only takes you back to previous books, it keeps rooted in Sweetwater. This series is so amazing to me. It captures all my attention and keeps me wanting more. I can’t wait to find out who the mate is to that beautiful dragon. I have thoughts. I can’t wait to see the baby oras and raccoons grow up. This is an exciting series!!
August 28, 2024
A mating of convience ends up being anything but convinant when feelings get involved. Dalton & Larken agree to this because both want a chance to change Daltons designation to give him and them at
chance for a true family. These two immediately have an unbreakable and heartwarming friendship. So when feelings evolve, it feels like a true progression in the most beautiful way possible. This story has some angst, yes, but all in need for this story to play out as lady fate deans it so. With the events at the end, all I can say i cannot wait to read the next installment. Jax has set us up for another thrilling story in the Steelwater Pack universe.
chance for a true family. These two immediately have an unbreakable and heartwarming friendship. So when feelings evolve, it feels like a true progression in the most beautiful way possible. This story has some angst, yes, but all in need for this story to play out as lady fate deans it so. With the events at the end, all I can say i cannot wait to read the next installment. Jax has set us up for another thrilling story in the Steelwater Pack universe.
August 29, 2024
Yes I loved this Sweetwater Pack story so much! Komodo(hello dragon) and a trash panda! I am so love with this couple! Each time Jax writes a new book I fall more I love with this pack and the range of characters and the storyline!
Some surprises and lots of heat time! I enjoy how well this pack works together and shows that even amongst chosen family the issues can be worked through!
I am already ready for the next book!
Some surprises and lots of heat time! I enjoy how well this pack works together and shows that even amongst chosen family the issues can be worked through!
I am already ready for the next book!
August 26, 2024
His Temporary Alpha Mate is the 5th book in the Sweetwater Pack series. I feel the series is best read in order. This is Larken an alpha komodo dragon shifter and Dalton a beta raccoon shifters story. Larken and Dalton start out as friends who have crushes on people they can't have. Dalton has always wanted a family and now with the end of the beta sickness if he finds an alpha that can happen. I loved this book maybe more than the other ones in the series. There is just something about these two that captured my heart. Watching these two grow in their relationship was perfect. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
September 12, 2024
Such a good series! Can't wait for the next one!
July 29, 2025
1.5 rounded. Okay the point of this review is to be critical not mean. I doubt anyone other than me will read it, but if you are the author or someone who absolutely loves this book, I think it’ll be best if you skip this.
It just wasn’t good. Lots of the same issues from the previous books persist here. The worst for me is how much does not happen on page. It’s a whole lot of telling with half the significant events getting a paragraph at most. Unfortunately, to me it felt like the plot and prose were both not good. I’m not sure if I’m misremembering book 1, but it feels like the later books are worse than the first book in both those aspects. Again, I like the premise but the execution is just so eye rolling. Like there was no conflict. And everyone was acting and speaking so stupidly a lot of the time. It was a very awkward combination of “everyone’s so smart and we knew this was gonna happen” but also “we need to act without thinking so that some contrived and short-lived conflict can occur and then we can say we knew it”. . And I’m not liking the MCs much either. Honestly, this book makes me want to move JS from my “meh author” to “nope author” list. And I’m still thinking about whether I’ll read the last book in the series. But that will definitely be the last JS book I read.
Progress updates (contain spoilers): 0%; 2%; 4%; 44%; 94%; 96%
It just wasn’t good. Lots of the same issues from the previous books persist here. The worst for me is how much does not happen on page. It’s a whole lot of telling with half the significant events getting a paragraph at most. Unfortunately, to me it felt like the plot and prose were both not good. I’m not sure if I’m misremembering book 1, but it feels like the later books are worse than the first book in both those aspects. Again, I like the premise but the execution is just so eye rolling. Like there was no conflict. And everyone was acting and speaking so stupidly a lot of the time. It was a very awkward combination of “everyone’s so smart and we knew this was gonna happen” but also “we need to act without thinking so that some contrived and short-lived conflict can occur and then we can say we knew it”. . And I’m not liking the MCs much either. Honestly, this book makes me want to move JS from my “meh author” to “nope author” list. And I’m still thinking about whether I’ll read the last book in the series. But that will definitely be the last JS book I read.
Progress updates (contain spoilers): 0%; 2%; 4%; 44%; 94%; 96%
March 25, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Unexpectedly, this has been my favorite book of the series. And such a change after the absolute disappointment of Book 4 aka the book I was MOST excited for.
This book focuses on two characters that were barely mentioned prior to their own book. I didn't really get a sense of either of them prior to this book other than Larken's crush on Roan and him protecting Roan when he got attacked by alphas during the beta sickness.
What I liked:
- Hands down the BEST relationship development within the series. This series tells events a lot vs. the reader living them, but I genuinely felt that you saw the progression of their relationship forming. Both of them getting over unrequited crushes and yet gravitating towards one another was incredibly adorable.
- I loved the inclusion of Dalton having pets. I loved that Priscilla & Spice both had their own set personalities. It also answered a question about shifters having pets when they're animals themselves. Both of them gravitating and protecting a pair of twins was so cute too!
- The merging of physical features was greatly appreciated. I felt like this hasn't been the case and/or they favor the alpha. I loved that the "badass" Komodo Dragons looked like Dalton and the cute trash pandas looked like Larken. Claps for diversity in the characters too. I felt like there was more storyline and emphasis within this book vs. others. An example, Roan is black...but you didn't really catch on to it much in his book. You did in this one with both Larken & Dalton.
- Larken getting pissed at Dalton for going into work on his first heat was a favorite scene of mine. I loved how irritated he was and the whole "caveman, throw his mate over his shoulder" scene, but still somehow Larken just came off as sweet.
- Not everyday you get a book where there's fisting involved. Wish that the sex scene would have been further developed though. Again, this author tells events vs. letting the reader experience it. One of my biggest gripes.
- FOUR babies!? Also, seeing a positive use of the fertility potions was nice too see too since they were the bad guy when usually referenced before this.
- Ingal literally becoming my new favorite character. I hope his character gets further developed. Smaller elf focused on the arts and blushing all the time? Cutest. Shit. Ever.
- The registrar scene being a trap was intense. Not only because of the babies and Larken panicking, but also Deke getting crushed and it being Jared aka Hiroshi's ex. Larken killing Jared and giving Hiroshi that closure felt like something was being rounded out too.
- Extremely grateful that my frustration around Roan being walked all over was addressed in this book. I loved Roan but he was seriously like a doormat. I liked that not only was that recognized and communicated, but also that Larken expressed his feelings of resentment that he might have been Roan's friend, but Roan wasn't really his with the way he deprioritized him all of the time.
- THE ENDING!!! Best epilogue ever. A dragon!? Also, Deke and whatever is going on with him. Can't wait to read about them.
- I know that Chase is ace/aromantic, but I really hope he gets a book. Chase really grew/developed in this book and I was glad to see him for more than just a goofball.
- Dimples may be my favorite pet name in any book I've ever read. I also like that Dalton has several nicknames. Dimples, Dal, Dally, Dally-doo.
- Going from Komodo Dragon to actual Dragon...iconic move!
Favorite quotes:
- "But you didn't..." Dalton looked dazed. My lizard preened at how satisfied our mate was. // OUR MATE!? Okay, slip of the tongue there Larken.
- "Here." Melody reappeared next to me to get our plates. She tossed me a shirt. "You are so whipped for that man." "I really am." There was no point in denying it. // I love that this is coming from the alpha of the pair. So many novels (and in real life) try to have people playing it cool and denying their feelings, emotions, etc. I loved that he was just like yep, sure am.
- "Later? I'm tempted now. You're hot stuff, Dimples." "Hmm, you're pretty hot yourself. Now strip and join me. We can pretend to watch this movie and make out." // Love this for two reasons. I love the nickname Dimples, but also love the author calling out that people "watch a movie" just to make out/fool around.
- Chase whipped out his phone, snapped a shot and then ran like the hounds of hell were chasing him. Close. Larken was, and man was he pissed! Hold him properly. You fall and you better break something before you harm him! He followed us, practically breathing down Chase's neck until we reached the clinic. // I don't visualize well but I could literally picture this happening. Just a monstrous Komodo Dragon chasing after a man holding a very pregnant racoon lol.
What I didn't care for:
- As stated, author constantly has you hearing about events vs. having you experience them. There's multiple situations in the book where this is true and it frustrates me every single time.
- I'm kind of disappointed that Dalton asks Larken quite literally right after being rejected by Axel. It just made it seem inauthentic and like he really wanted Larken in that moment. And Larken was just fine with it? There weren't any feelings of him questioning it, being irritated, etc. Just didn't seem realistic.
- Why didn't we get a scene where Ingal bonded? If I don't get a book about him and his love interest, I'm going to riot. Because we're left wanting more.
Unexpectedly, this has been my favorite book of the series. And such a change after the absolute disappointment of Book 4 aka the book I was MOST excited for.
This book focuses on two characters that were barely mentioned prior to their own book. I didn't really get a sense of either of them prior to this book other than Larken's crush on Roan and him protecting Roan when he got attacked by alphas during the beta sickness.
What I liked:
- Hands down the BEST relationship development within the series. This series tells events a lot vs. the reader living them, but I genuinely felt that you saw the progression of their relationship forming. Both of them getting over unrequited crushes and yet gravitating towards one another was incredibly adorable.
- I loved the inclusion of Dalton having pets. I loved that Priscilla & Spice both had their own set personalities. It also answered a question about shifters having pets when they're animals themselves. Both of them gravitating and protecting a pair of twins was so cute too!
- The merging of physical features was greatly appreciated. I felt like this hasn't been the case and/or they favor the alpha. I loved that the "badass" Komodo Dragons looked like Dalton and the cute trash pandas looked like Larken. Claps for diversity in the characters too. I felt like there was more storyline and emphasis within this book vs. others. An example, Roan is black...but you didn't really catch on to it much in his book. You did in this one with both Larken & Dalton.
- Larken getting pissed at Dalton for going into work on his first heat was a favorite scene of mine. I loved how irritated he was and the whole "caveman, throw his mate over his shoulder" scene, but still somehow Larken just came off as sweet.
- Not everyday you get a book where there's fisting involved. Wish that the sex scene would have been further developed though. Again, this author tells events vs. letting the reader experience it. One of my biggest gripes.
- FOUR babies!? Also, seeing a positive use of the fertility potions was nice too see too since they were the bad guy when usually referenced before this.
- Ingal literally becoming my new favorite character. I hope his character gets further developed. Smaller elf focused on the arts and blushing all the time? Cutest. Shit. Ever.
- The registrar scene being a trap was intense. Not only because of the babies and Larken panicking, but also Deke getting crushed and it being Jared aka Hiroshi's ex. Larken killing Jared and giving Hiroshi that closure felt like something was being rounded out too.
- Extremely grateful that my frustration around Roan being walked all over was addressed in this book. I loved Roan but he was seriously like a doormat. I liked that not only was that recognized and communicated, but also that Larken expressed his feelings of resentment that he might have been Roan's friend, but Roan wasn't really his with the way he deprioritized him all of the time.
- THE ENDING!!! Best epilogue ever. A dragon!? Also, Deke and whatever is going on with him. Can't wait to read about them.
- I know that Chase is ace/aromantic, but I really hope he gets a book. Chase really grew/developed in this book and I was glad to see him for more than just a goofball.
- Dimples may be my favorite pet name in any book I've ever read. I also like that Dalton has several nicknames. Dimples, Dal, Dally, Dally-doo.
- Going from Komodo Dragon to actual Dragon...iconic move!
Favorite quotes:
- "But you didn't..." Dalton looked dazed. My lizard preened at how satisfied our mate was. // OUR MATE!? Okay, slip of the tongue there Larken.
- "Here." Melody reappeared next to me to get our plates. She tossed me a shirt. "You are so whipped for that man." "I really am." There was no point in denying it. // I love that this is coming from the alpha of the pair. So many novels (and in real life) try to have people playing it cool and denying their feelings, emotions, etc. I loved that he was just like yep, sure am.
- "Later? I'm tempted now. You're hot stuff, Dimples." "Hmm, you're pretty hot yourself. Now strip and join me. We can pretend to watch this movie and make out." // Love this for two reasons. I love the nickname Dimples, but also love the author calling out that people "watch a movie" just to make out/fool around.
- Chase whipped out his phone, snapped a shot and then ran like the hounds of hell were chasing him. Close. Larken was, and man was he pissed! Hold him properly. You fall and you better break something before you harm him! He followed us, practically breathing down Chase's neck until we reached the clinic. // I don't visualize well but I could literally picture this happening. Just a monstrous Komodo Dragon chasing after a man holding a very pregnant racoon lol.
What I didn't care for:
- As stated, author constantly has you hearing about events vs. having you experience them. There's multiple situations in the book where this is true and it frustrates me every single time.
- I'm kind of disappointed that Dalton asks Larken quite literally right after being rejected by Axel. It just made it seem inauthentic and like he really wanted Larken in that moment. And Larken was just fine with it? There weren't any feelings of him questioning it, being irritated, etc. Just didn't seem realistic.
- Why didn't we get a scene where Ingal bonded? If I don't get a book about him and his love interest, I'm going to riot. Because we're left wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
Wow! This was a ride and I liked it. Larken and Dalton are both crushing over someone they can't have so they decide to be FWB. The problem with that is that feelings get involved and the FWB turns into two people in love. Dalton finds out that after the Beta sickness he is designated an Omega and he's excited to start the change. He's always wanted to have a mate and children and he's not getting any younger. After some disappointing news he has to wait. When it's his turn he asks Larken to be his Alpha and Larken is ready to sign up. Dalton's first heat doesn't go as expected so they have to devise a new plan for his next one. The next heat doesn't go as expected either but it ends with a happier ending. During the time that Larken and Dalton are forming their friendship and bonds, Larken confronts his supposed BF Roan. Larken tells Roan how he's always been there for him but that Roan hasn't been there for him. After some thinking Roan agrees and plans to make a change. The outside forces that have been coming for the Sweetwater Pack are hitting them even heavier and it's causing problems from unexpected sources. New members are still coming to ask for sanctuary which has the pack growing more plus the baby boom. The aviary that is attacking the pack sends a member with the envoy to a meeting at the Sweetwater Pack. He isn't ready for the news he finds out. Hopefully this will help the Sweetwater Pack later on. The pack is still getting help from the elves and it's greatly appreciated. Just when things look like they are calming down a huge, unexpected arrival comes to Sweetwater. I'm excited to find out what it's there for.
This is a really good fantasy/romance with drama involved. The character and world building continue to flesh out with each story in the series. The characters from all the previous books continue to plan parts in each book. Each book in the series continue to build on the story lines started in book one. I liked that each book has it's own story and gives a nice little end but also has a little something of a cliffhanger too. I thought that Dalton and Larken had really good chemistry. Their sexy times are hot! Their evolution from acquaintances to friends to FWB to mates was seamless and heartfelt. There is a lot going on in this book but it never felt like too much. It all felt needed. I'm excitedly waiting on the next book. I highly recommend this book, this series and this author.
This is a really good fantasy/romance with drama involved. The character and world building continue to flesh out with each story in the series. The characters from all the previous books continue to plan parts in each book. Each book in the series continue to build on the story lines started in book one. I liked that each book has it's own story and gives a nice little end but also has a little something of a cliffhanger too. I thought that Dalton and Larken had really good chemistry. Their sexy times are hot! Their evolution from acquaintances to friends to FWB to mates was seamless and heartfelt. There is a lot going on in this book but it never felt like too much. It all felt needed. I'm excitedly waiting on the next book. I highly recommend this book, this series and this author.
August 23, 2024
I liked that Dalton and Larken grew their relationship from friendship. These two find comfort in each other, especially when their feelings on their crushes becomes a bit complicated. Dalton has wanted a family for so long and never thought he'd get the chance as he's a beta. However, the beta sickness has changed this and his dreams are in reach with his best friend Larkin at his side. This is a really good FWB to more story. These two are there for each other and it's sweet seeing Larken prepare and take care of Dalton as he moves through this new transition. I love the raccoon and komodo dragon shifters! It's always awesome to see unusual animals and Dalton's alter is super adorable.
Truthfully, I think this was more of a three star read for me. I gave it four because I do really like this universe and there's a lot going on. However, I feel that a lot of the action happens off page. Larkin is supposedly this guard who's been trained since a young age and yet gets knocked out fairly often. By the time he's up, everything is over. There's also a lot of recapping. I think it's entirely possible to pick this one up without reading any of the previous stories. While you would have more context, there's a lot of explanations which kind of slow down the pace for me. There were quite a few times that the pace dragged for me. I will say that the pace definitely picked up once Dalton gets pregnant. From that point onward, it felt that we finally get some on page action and forward movement.
Truthfully, I think this was more of a three star read for me. I gave it four because I do really like this universe and there's a lot going on. However, I feel that a lot of the action happens off page. Larkin is supposedly this guard who's been trained since a young age and yet gets knocked out fairly often. By the time he's up, everything is over. There's also a lot of recapping. I think it's entirely possible to pick this one up without reading any of the previous stories. While you would have more context, there's a lot of explanations which kind of slow down the pace for me. There were quite a few times that the pace dragged for me. I will say that the pace definitely picked up once Dalton gets pregnant. From that point onward, it felt that we finally get some on page action and forward movement.
September 7, 2024
This is the fifth book in the Sweetwater Pack series and you really must read these books in order to understand it fully. This is the story of Larken and Dalton. Larken is an alpha komodo dragon. Dalton is a beta raccoon shifter and lovingly refers to his other as "trash panda". Both are members of the same pack and both are in love with their best friends. Unfortunately, that doesn't work out for either of them. Dalton has always dreamed of having a baby and a family. When the ability to change designations, Dalton is at the front of the line for testing. When he receives the designation of omega, he is over the moon. His dreams can possibly come true. Now all he needs is a temporary alpha to start the process. During this time, Larken and Dalton are friends. Their friendship grows and evolves into a FWB situation. As they learn more out each other, their respect and love grows. Having a child together is one thing but what about being together forever? This is their story. I liked how the the two started from friends to more. I also enjoyed that Dalton was in his 40's. It was nice to see older characters take center stage for a change. This is a warm and uplifting book. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2024
**4.5**
A fantastic penultimate book in the Sweetwater series. I would say that this story actually starts further back in the series and covers some high, and low, lights of recent books. Personally, I would say to read the series in order because of the increased number of people and events that take place but it is possible to read as a standalone.
Dalton and Larken are two men who each have unfortunate crushes on their best friends and find friendship and comfort with each other. With the possibility of Dalton being able to go from his beta status to omega, something he has yearned for along with having his own babies, their bond strengthens as they go through many trials together.
I really enjoyed how the two men's relationship developed, going from passing acquaintances to FWB, to temporary mates to help Dalton's dream of a family come true. Both find comfort in the other during evolving relationships with their best friends, troubles with the pack and outside forces working against them, and the stress that Dalton's body will go through.
Fans of the series will love this and it will endear newcomers to the characters throughout the Sweetwater pack. We're left with the tiniest cliffhanger and I cannot wait to see how it turns out.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
A fantastic penultimate book in the Sweetwater series. I would say that this story actually starts further back in the series and covers some high, and low, lights of recent books. Personally, I would say to read the series in order because of the increased number of people and events that take place but it is possible to read as a standalone.
Dalton and Larken are two men who each have unfortunate crushes on their best friends and find friendship and comfort with each other. With the possibility of Dalton being able to go from his beta status to omega, something he has yearned for along with having his own babies, their bond strengthens as they go through many trials together.
I really enjoyed how the two men's relationship developed, going from passing acquaintances to FWB, to temporary mates to help Dalton's dream of a family come true. Both find comfort in the other during evolving relationships with their best friends, troubles with the pack and outside forces working against them, and the stress that Dalton's body will go through.
Fans of the series will love this and it will endear newcomers to the characters throughout the Sweetwater pack. We're left with the tiniest cliffhanger and I cannot wait to see how it turns out.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 5, 2024
This was another great addition to the series and I love traveling back to the Sweetwater Pack. It’s finally Dalton’s story with Larken as his fated mate. Dalton has held a crush on Axel for some time and in the previous book, I felt the sense that Axel’s new relationship was tough for Dalton to handle. Not just for the attraction aspect but for the loss of opportunity to have a family which he really craved.
I liked the friends first feel to their relationship as both Dalton and Larken find themselves in a friends with more arrangement after commiserating on their similar situations. It’s not until things progress and the ramifications of the beta sickness change things for both of these characters and they begin to realize how they really feel for one another and how to move forward. I love the HEA for these two characters and the found family part of the story that these two characters deserve.
I love the underlying story and so curious as to how this plays out in the final book. I’ve been reading this series since the first book came out so I have come to really enjoy these characters. This is absolutely a series you need to read in order even though some parts of the storyline overlap. I’m curious as to the final mate pairing and how that will affect the pack and what challenges it will bring.
I liked the friends first feel to their relationship as both Dalton and Larken find themselves in a friends with more arrangement after commiserating on their similar situations. It’s not until things progress and the ramifications of the beta sickness change things for both of these characters and they begin to realize how they really feel for one another and how to move forward. I love the HEA for these two characters and the found family part of the story that these two characters deserve.
I love the underlying story and so curious as to how this plays out in the final book. I’ve been reading this series since the first book came out so I have come to really enjoy these characters. This is absolutely a series you need to read in order even though some parts of the storyline overlap. I’m curious as to the final mate pairing and how that will affect the pack and what challenges it will bring.
August 26, 2024
4.5 stars. The Luna made a promise to Dalton, who is a beta and desperately wants to have a family of his own. Luna said he had to be patient, in the end, his wish would come true. But the wait is long it’s tearing him apart.
Dalton has the hots for Axel and Larken for Roan. Sadly both aren’t meant to be for them.
Drowning in their sorrows, Dalton and Larken became friends, very good friends, friends with benefits, friends who comfort and loved each other as much as friends can do.
The pack was busy after the beta sickness, finding their daily routine again.
There’s also life-altering news for the pack. Dalton is thrilled, he needs an Alpha even if it’s a temporary one.
Dalton and Larken excel in being friends, they are so good for each other if only they’d understand that too.
Oh, wait! Luna planned it all perfectly!!
With many different types of creatures and relationships, there are many different dynamics.
There are a lot of characters involved, it made this read one big story that felt whole and full.
The joy and hurt were hugely palpable. A lot is happening in the pack, and still Dalton and Larken their journey stood out, well done!
Dalton has the hots for Axel and Larken for Roan. Sadly both aren’t meant to be for them.
Drowning in their sorrows, Dalton and Larken became friends, very good friends, friends with benefits, friends who comfort and loved each other as much as friends can do.
The pack was busy after the beta sickness, finding their daily routine again.
There’s also life-altering news for the pack. Dalton is thrilled, he needs an Alpha even if it’s a temporary one.
Dalton and Larken excel in being friends, they are so good for each other if only they’d understand that too.
Oh, wait! Luna planned it all perfectly!!
With many different types of creatures and relationships, there are many different dynamics.
There are a lot of characters involved, it made this read one big story that felt whole and full.
The joy and hurt were hugely palpable. A lot is happening in the pack, and still Dalton and Larken their journey stood out, well done!
September 6, 2024
Dalton and Larken were beautiful together. Such a hard won HEA. Dalton's desire for a baby of his own was actually heart rending. It comes across so well in Jax Stuart's writing. Painful and endearing, Dalton alternately praised and cursed the Luna. Each setback was heartbreaking.
Going from friends with benefits to true love was wonderful to watch. The two had to acknowledge that love they felt for each other was so much more than the crushes for Roan and Axel. I enjoyed the worldbuilding and the hints of the earlier stories that were interwoven in this story. The found family of the Sweetwater Pack is incredible. Especially enjoyed Chase and his Dally-dos.
I can't believe the series is almost over, although she's promising a spin off. And there's always the Northarbor coven. After the last book, I think the series definitely needs a binge reread. A beautiful story, a great series. A fun, quick read.
I received an Advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
Going from friends with benefits to true love was wonderful to watch. The two had to acknowledge that love they felt for each other was so much more than the crushes for Roan and Axel. I enjoyed the worldbuilding and the hints of the earlier stories that were interwoven in this story. The found family of the Sweetwater Pack is incredible. Especially enjoyed Chase and his Dally-dos.
I can't believe the series is almost over, although she's promising a spin off. And there's always the Northarbor coven. After the last book, I think the series definitely needs a binge reread. A beautiful story, a great series. A fun, quick read.
I received an Advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
August 16, 2024
I think this one is my favorite out of what I've read in the series. I'm not typically a FWB trope lover, but I think this aspect helped these guys form a deeper bond with one another.
When they started building their friendship, they were both 'in love' with their best friends respectively. They grew their friendship by encountering the same issues together.
This book happens during the same timeline as the previous ones, so we see glimpses of other couples' journey to their HEAs they deserved.
One of the things I absolutely adored was that Dalton's alter was a Trash Panda. He was the most adorable thing, especially when taking care of his cat and ferret.
"His little trash panda self loved shiny things, though, and once he spotted Ingal's jewelry, he was off."
I will say, I cannot wait for the next book. That ending. Gimme, Jax, gimme.
When they started building their friendship, they were both 'in love' with their best friends respectively. They grew their friendship by encountering the same issues together.
This book happens during the same timeline as the previous ones, so we see glimpses of other couples' journey to their HEAs they deserved.
One of the things I absolutely adored was that Dalton's alter was a Trash Panda. He was the most adorable thing, especially when taking care of his cat and ferret.
"His little trash panda self loved shiny things, though, and once he spotted Ingal's jewelry, he was off."
I will say, I cannot wait for the next book. That ending. Gimme, Jax, gimme.
November 1, 2025
We're back to sweetness in this book, but the deus ex machina was a lot less. I really enjoyed the fact that these two actually built their relationship over time, instead of having an insta-love. It was really well done, all the little moments over the previous four books, written from these characters' POV.
September 11, 2024
I absolutely loved that Dalton and Larken got their story! If you’ve read the books before this you should know about the beta sickness that ravaged shifters. I love the whole continuing arc of this story and cannot wait for more stuff to be revealed! Dalton has always wanted kids and wanted to be an omega, but was born as a beta. He fell to the beta sickness for a month and woke up to questions. His crush had also fallen ill to the sickness and woke up about the same time. This had a lot of unrequited love throughout, as both Dalton and Larken were “in love” with other people before they came to an agreement together. But don’t let me spoil any of this book! Pick it up and read it! Such a great read and loved it so much!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
August 18, 2024
I have loved every story in this series but I think this one rates up there with the very first one as far as my favorite ones go. Larken and Dalton chose each other. Larken may not be Dalton’s first choice to use as a temporary alpha to take part in the change, but he is the only logical one as they are both friends first. What starts out as “temporary” really never was and these two really bloom and grow under each other’s care. Not all fated mates start out with the instant insane sparks. It is what deep down that really matters. This story has so much heart and feels. It really is worth a read if you like shifters and mates.
August 28, 2024
I enjoyed this recent mpreg book in the Sweetwater Pack series.
The main characters, Dalton, a beta raccoon shifter, and Larkin, an alpha komodo dragon shifter, are written realistically. They initially have to come to terms with the disappointment of not being with other people they have a crush on. It was wonderful watching the growth of their friendship into love, in what started out as a mating of necessary convenience.
There are lots of central characters and plotlines appearing from previous books in this complex series, which has some events running concurrently alongside this book. That helps this book to more easily be read as a standalone.
The main characters, Dalton, a beta raccoon shifter, and Larkin, an alpha komodo dragon shifter, are written realistically. They initially have to come to terms with the disappointment of not being with other people they have a crush on. It was wonderful watching the growth of their friendship into love, in what started out as a mating of necessary convenience.
There are lots of central characters and plotlines appearing from previous books in this complex series, which has some events running concurrently alongside this book. That helps this book to more easily be read as a standalone.
September 6, 2024
Absolutely beautiful
I loved Dolton and Larken.
Initially, they both believed themselves to both be in love with their best friends.
After finding out they each respectively found their mates, they were heartbroken.
Together, they decided to seek comfort with each other and begin a friendship.
As they spend time together, they slowly heal and finally realize that they're falling in love with each other.
I loved the natural progression of their relationship and how much they actually communicated.
There's plenty of love and laughter between them and their pack mates.
There's dangerous situations that they weather together and I can't wait for Deke's story.
I loved Dolton and Larken.
Initially, they both believed themselves to both be in love with their best friends.
After finding out they each respectively found their mates, they were heartbroken.
Together, they decided to seek comfort with each other and begin a friendship.
As they spend time together, they slowly heal and finally realize that they're falling in love with each other.
I loved the natural progression of their relationship and how much they actually communicated.
There's plenty of love and laughter between them and their pack mates.
There's dangerous situations that they weather together and I can't wait for Deke's story.
August 29, 2024
Dalton is an omega who has crushed on his boss forever. His friend Larken, an alpha has crushed on a friend forever also. The two console each other and work there way into a relationship, friends with benefits until they mate themselves. Finally, they realize they are meant for each other. So much goes on in this continuing series of Sweetwater, so many people and events involved and this runs concurrently with previous books. It can be hard to keep track but it is a captivating story. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
August 20, 2024
I am loving this series. This one features Larken and Dalton. Both have had crushes on other people but when the beta sickness hit Dalton, he found out later that he can change designations. Larken and Dalton start off as friends but quickly become more. This is the start of their relationship which takes place over two years. Loved how they acted towards each other with great chemistry and heat. Cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
September 1, 2024
More interesting events at the Sweetwater Pack
Jax Stuart has essentially written one long tale about this pack and the problems that it encounters and then cut it up into separate books. The whole thing is fantastic but you will have a difficult time figuring everything out if you start with this book. Definitely worth reading as it’s exciting, sweet, scary, fascinating and a whole bunch more.
Jax Stuart has essentially written one long tale about this pack and the problems that it encounters and then cut it up into separate books. The whole thing is fantastic but you will have a difficult time figuring everything out if you start with this book. Definitely worth reading as it’s exciting, sweet, scary, fascinating and a whole bunch more.
September 4, 2024
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!!!
SWEETWATER PACK Book 5 is just so INCREDIBLE. Fast moving and so many finding true happiness. JAX STUART has such a wonderful writing style you feel every emotion. Larken and Dalton became the best of friends. After Dalton received his designation they became much more. So many great things and hard won fights. I cannot wait for the next Book with these remarkable characters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS SWEETWATER PACK SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
SWEETWATER PACK Book 5 is just so INCREDIBLE. Fast moving and so many finding true happiness. JAX STUART has such a wonderful writing style you feel every emotion. Larken and Dalton became the best of friends. After Dalton received his designation they became much more. So many great things and hard won fights. I cannot wait for the next Book with these remarkable characters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS SWEETWATER PACK SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
September 7, 2024
Loved it
Oh I loved this book, I was so happy for Dalton, although at first he came across a little divaish. He ended up such a sweetheart and I really liked his character.
Larkin was just amazing I loved his character and so was so glad he got what he wanted.
I honestly think this whole series is just great. In this book you get everything brilliant characters, great story with humour and hot scenes too what more could you ask for.
Oh I loved this book, I was so happy for Dalton, although at first he came across a little divaish. He ended up such a sweetheart and I really liked his character.
Larkin was just amazing I loved his character and so was so glad he got what he wanted.
I honestly think this whole series is just great. In this book you get everything brilliant characters, great story with humour and hot scenes too what more could you ask for.
March 25, 2025
rebound
A more domestic story, with an office worker and a pack guard recovering from their individual unrequited crushes, so they don’t see a budding friendship that will grow into a love affair.
Infertile beta designation shifters get a Goddess blessing and the chance to become alpha or omegas (and the designation of their dreams), but why stop there? Why not allow shifter magic to allow a shifter fluidity in gender and caste?
A more domestic story, with an office worker and a pack guard recovering from their individual unrequited crushes, so they don’t see a budding friendship that will grow into a love affair.
Infertile beta designation shifters get a Goddess blessing and the chance to become alpha or omegas (and the designation of their dreams), but why stop there? Why not allow shifter magic to allow a shifter fluidity in gender and caste?
August 20, 2024
I really enjoyed the unique premise that brought Dalton and Larkin together here. No insta love, in fact the opposite, they were both pretty much pining for others. The way the timeline in this romance runs correspondent with the others in the series was done seamlessly. Dalton physically needed Larkin but ended up finding so much more emotionally!
August 20, 2024
I love this book so much. Dalton and Larkin felt real to me. Usually don't like mating of conveniences because it's so insta and unrealistic, but this book fall against that. They both were open about having feelings for other people and grew to love each other.
Also I love raccoons, they are so cute. I love this book and series.
Also I love raccoons, they are so cute. I love this book and series.
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