What do you think?
Rate this book
Hartlock Omegas #1
Omega Founded
Hartlock Ranch needed a mail-order bride, only betas need apply
.
Hale Hartlock was getting married for one reason to give his wild younger brother a nurturing influence. Omegas were a rarity, and one wouldn’t choose to live in the wildlands. Hale wouldn’t take any chances, not when his hatred of the spoiled designation ran so deeply. He swore to the men of Hartlock Ranch, Ruck and Oliver, nothing would change, certainly not their hearts.
But Esta, Hale’s sweet beta bride, was a temptation none of them could resist. Earnest, hardworking and innocent, she didn’t belong in the wildlands. But Hartlock Ranch was rejuvenated by her presence, and it wasn’t just Hale falling deeper in love with Esta. Ruck, Hale’s brother, and their farmhand, Oliver, both harbored emotions that had no right to exist.
The government outlawed packs years ago, so why did the idea seem so right?
Unfortunately, Esta had a secret, one that would destroy the tender romance building between the three of them. She was an omega in disguise, and her time had just run out. When Esta’s true identity is revealed, the only solution is to become something that went against everything their society believed.
Hartlock Pack.
Could this mail-order bride finally find a home, or will long held hatreds tear them all apart?
Hale Hartlock was getting married for one reason to give his wild younger brother a nurturing influence. Omegas were a rarity, and one wouldn’t choose to live in the wildlands. Hale wouldn’t take any chances, not when his hatred of the spoiled designation ran so deeply. He swore to the men of Hartlock Ranch, Ruck and Oliver, nothing would change, certainly not their hearts.
But Esta, Hale’s sweet beta bride, was a temptation none of them could resist. Earnest, hardworking and innocent, she didn’t belong in the wildlands. But Hartlock Ranch was rejuvenated by her presence, and it wasn’t just Hale falling deeper in love with Esta. Ruck, Hale’s brother, and their farmhand, Oliver, both harbored emotions that had no right to exist.
The government outlawed packs years ago, so why did the idea seem so right?
Unfortunately, Esta had a secret, one that would destroy the tender romance building between the three of them. She was an omega in disguise, and her time had just run out. When Esta’s true identity is revealed, the only solution is to become something that went against everything their society believed.
Hartlock Pack.
Could this mail-order bride finally find a home, or will long held hatreds tear them all apart?
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2025
347 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
March 14, 2025
I loved the premise of this book. How unique! What I didn’t love was how the ending fell flat. There was such a good, angsty buildup between the main characters with the MOC. I wanted a big, glorious reunion after all of the groveling but it was just kind of skimmed over. The two other alphas weren’t especially compelling because they almost acted like betas. Overall, I liked it, but I skimmed a lot of the last 1/3 of the book so can’t rate higher than 3 stars. I will look for more from this author as I see a lot of potential!
January 21, 2025
Thank you so much for the arc!
This is a new author to me, and I was excited about all the tropes, as well as the setting!
I mean, omega and set in the wild west? That hasn't really been done before, and I think the author deserves some major kudos for that.
While I'm aboard the kudos train, I want to include my appreciation of drawing a parallel between the treatment of alphas and omegas to that of the forced assimilation of Native Americans and the missionaries that were determined to "save them from their savage ways."
I feel like it's impossible to have a book set in this time period and not include the significance of the rise in Christianity
(Maybe I'm reaching here lmao)
The FMC, Esta, is great. Although the book was historical in setting, she was independent and determined. Despite all the hardships she faced, she never turned bitter.
She's a better person than I would be. 😂
The two guys, Oliver and Ruck were also enjoyable. I'm glad that they stood up for Esta, but they also felt identical? It was hard to tell them apart for most of the story. They both agreed with each other, which didn't help with my confusion.
Bram, the kid in the story even redeemed himself as it went on. He was prickly to Esta at first, but I feel that's a normal feeling for kids to have.
Last but not least, Hale.
Where do I even start?
This guy sucks. I hated him. He shouldn't have been kept in the pack. Red flags galore (and not the good kind).
I wish Esta didn't marry him.
This is a bit of a spoiler, but I have to address it bc it's one of my biggest icks in omega romance: their first time together is when her heat hits.
He hates her too. It's her first time. I was honestly so disgusted by this.
Also, the length of this book is too long.
At 60% I started to skim. It was getting boring. I'm sorry. 😔
This is a new author to me, and I was excited about all the tropes, as well as the setting!
I mean, omega and set in the wild west? That hasn't really been done before, and I think the author deserves some major kudos for that.
While I'm aboard the kudos train, I want to include my appreciation of drawing a parallel between the treatment of alphas and omegas to that of the forced assimilation of Native Americans and the missionaries that were determined to "save them from their savage ways."
I feel like it's impossible to have a book set in this time period and not include the significance of the rise in Christianity
(Maybe I'm reaching here lmao)
The FMC, Esta, is great. Although the book was historical in setting, she was independent and determined. Despite all the hardships she faced, she never turned bitter.
She's a better person than I would be. 😂
The two guys, Oliver and Ruck were also enjoyable. I'm glad that they stood up for Esta, but they also felt identical? It was hard to tell them apart for most of the story. They both agreed with each other, which didn't help with my confusion.
Bram, the kid in the story even redeemed himself as it went on. He was prickly to Esta at first, but I feel that's a normal feeling for kids to have.
Last but not least, Hale.
Where do I even start?
This guy sucks. I hated him. He shouldn't have been kept in the pack. Red flags galore (and not the good kind).
I wish Esta didn't marry him.
This is a bit of a spoiler, but I have to address it bc it's one of my biggest icks in omega romance: their first time together is when her heat hits.
He hates her too. It's her first time. I was honestly so disgusted by this.
Also, the length of this book is too long.
At 60% I started to skim. It was getting boring. I'm sorry. 😔
January 10, 2025
I knew I was going to love this as soon as I saw the tropes. I'm a sucker for omegaverse, but I've never read a historical western one and I desperately need more!! Really hoping we're getting more books in this world 😩🤞
"𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙜𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙥𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪? 𝙈𝙮 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩, 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚? 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚."
This book was so sweet, but also delivered the spice and angst 🔥🪢 and a BIG THANK YOU for actually making Mr. Man grovel!! I’m tired of books being advertised with groveling and the MMC just says “sorry. ok, now take your clothes off” 😂😭
“𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙈𝙧𝙨. 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙤𝙘𝙠, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙥𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙚𝙨, 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙥𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢.”
The way they all fixed the brokenness in each other ughhh SO FREAKING SWEET 😭 The scene with Bram and the pie actually made me tear up.
Highly recommend this book if you’re a fan of Omegaverse. I flew through it within a day!
𝐀𝐝𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐁𝐑 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲:
🏜️ Omegaverse
🪢 Why Choose (MFMM)
🏜️ Cowboy Alphas
🪢 Mail Order Bride
🏜️ Omega in Disguise (also on the run)
🪢 “My wife”
"𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙜𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙥𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪? 𝙈𝙮 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩, 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚? 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚."
This book was so sweet, but also delivered the spice and angst 🔥🪢 and a BIG THANK YOU for actually making Mr. Man grovel!! I’m tired of books being advertised with groveling and the MMC just says “sorry. ok, now take your clothes off” 😂😭
“𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙈𝙧𝙨. 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙤𝙘𝙠, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙥𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙚𝙨, 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙥𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢.”
The way they all fixed the brokenness in each other ughhh SO FREAKING SWEET 😭 The scene with Bram and the pie actually made me tear up.
Highly recommend this book if you’re a fan of Omegaverse. I flew through it within a day!
𝐀𝐝𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐁𝐑 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲:
🏜️ Omegaverse
🪢 Why Choose (MFMM)
🏜️ Cowboy Alphas
🪢 Mail Order Bride
🏜️ Omega in Disguise (also on the run)
🪢 “My wife”
February 16, 2025
DNF at 62%
I just didn’t care for the plot anymore or the characters. It lacked depth and too many plot holes.
Our fmc Esta (which is a bit weird name for Spanish speakers I must say) is an omega that is running away from her family (dad how wants to marry her to a ruthless human). The whole setting is in the 1920s? Honestly it isn’t very clear. She becomes a mail bride which is a normal thing to do to Hale, who runs a ranch with her brothers. Hale hates omegas and asked specifically for a Beta in his “mail-bride” ad. The fmc responded since she needed to get away ASAP and assumed Hale would be okay with her revealing she is an omega later on. (She is masking short scent for now).
This was a very insta-lust/love situation.😅so if you are looking for depth in the main character relationships this isn’t it. Hale instantly found her enticing and did his brothers Oliver (half brother) and Ruck. They also have a younger brother Bram (10 year old) that is half wild meaning he is a brat.
Anyways, Esta realises that Hale hates omegas and decides to keep hiding her Omega status. There isn’t a lot of world building either so that’s also a bit go with the flow don’t think about it too much.
The big betrayal and the reason why I started the book was when Hale found out she is an omega (she ran out of the tea to hide her scent). He was cruel but it was mild. She had no backbone btw, so also don’t expect her to fight back. He wanted to sent her away.
At some point Esta had her heat and I was expecting more betrayal, you know the gut punch type. But it didn’t really happen. Hale took her once and then sent her brothers in to help.. so what the author advertised as “denied heat” was not really what happened.
The whole thing is bland. They keep saying that they are in love, but why? They barely talked or interacted. It’s superficial.
The betrayal was not really a betrayal. The heat denuded wasn’t either. Grovel is so bland as well. Honestly it’s boring and so predictable.
The scene of the fmc “paying back” on hale by making him watch her with her brother (who he sent to her anyways for her heat and wants all of the be together)…. Seriously?
Even the s*x scenes are boring I skimmed most of them.
I just didn’t care for the plot anymore or the characters. It lacked depth and too many plot holes.
Our fmc Esta (which is a bit weird name for Spanish speakers I must say) is an omega that is running away from her family (dad how wants to marry her to a ruthless human). The whole setting is in the 1920s? Honestly it isn’t very clear. She becomes a mail bride which is a normal thing to do to Hale, who runs a ranch with her brothers. Hale hates omegas and asked specifically for a Beta in his “mail-bride” ad. The fmc responded since she needed to get away ASAP and assumed Hale would be okay with her revealing she is an omega later on. (She is masking short scent for now).
This was a very insta-lust/love situation.😅so if you are looking for depth in the main character relationships this isn’t it. Hale instantly found her enticing and did his brothers Oliver (half brother) and Ruck. They also have a younger brother Bram (10 year old) that is half wild meaning he is a brat.
Anyways, Esta realises that Hale hates omegas and decides to keep hiding her Omega status. There isn’t a lot of world building either so that’s also a bit go with the flow don’t think about it too much.
The big betrayal and the reason why I started the book was when Hale found out she is an omega (she ran out of the tea to hide her scent). He was cruel but it was mild. She had no backbone btw, so also don’t expect her to fight back. He wanted to sent her away.
At some point Esta had her heat and I was expecting more betrayal, you know the gut punch type. But it didn’t really happen. Hale took her once and then sent her brothers in to help.. so what the author advertised as “denied heat” was not really what happened.
The whole thing is bland. They keep saying that they are in love, but why? They barely talked or interacted. It’s superficial.
The betrayal was not really a betrayal. The heat denuded wasn’t either. Grovel is so bland as well. Honestly it’s boring and so predictable.
The scene of the fmc “paying back” on hale by making him watch her with her brother (who he sent to her anyways for her heat and wants all of the be together)…. Seriously?
Even the s*x scenes are boring I skimmed most of them.
January 7, 2025
✨️ARC✨️
Omega Founded by Mae Pierce
Under their watchful eyes, I wasn't alone. My troubles became quibbles to their endless expanse. I was nothing when I was under the night sky. A blip, a
piece of chaff in the mix.
"You have a cruel heart, Hale." "I know it."
"Sweet star."
"l want you to have everything you need." The world, I added to myself.
♡
Hartlock Ranch needed a mail-order bride, only betas need apply.
The problem is, that Esta applied and arrived, but she's an Omega in hiding. With a tea made by her sister to hide her scent as an Omega, time's ticking. She needs to tell the Alphas what she is. But how will they react? She fled a gilded prison and a violent man who wanted her for his vile plans. Will they persevere? Will love conquer all?
♡
Y'all, this scratched an itch, I didn't know I had. In a world where Omegas and Alphas are known as the Designated, and do not shift. But glands, bites, and knots very much exist! It delivers on plot, romance, tense atmosphere, KNOTTING, and I got a trip to grovel city! There's something about simpering men that hits just right. Esta is a force, a take-no-shit Omega that demands to be seen and heard. So it was just a matter of time before all the Alphas fell for her. Hale, the boss-man with a fractured past and a broken heart. Ruck, the charming younger brother, with the inability to be still. And Oliver, the neglected Alpha who can't read, and just wants to be loved. Sparks flew off the pages, and I couldn't put it down.
Releases February 10th on Kindle!
Thank you to Mae Pierce for this ARC!
Thoughts and opinions are my own!
Omega Founded by Mae Pierce
Under their watchful eyes, I wasn't alone. My troubles became quibbles to their endless expanse. I was nothing when I was under the night sky. A blip, a
piece of chaff in the mix.
"You have a cruel heart, Hale." "I know it."
"Sweet star."
"l want you to have everything you need." The world, I added to myself.
♡
Hartlock Ranch needed a mail-order bride, only betas need apply.
The problem is, that Esta applied and arrived, but she's an Omega in hiding. With a tea made by her sister to hide her scent as an Omega, time's ticking. She needs to tell the Alphas what she is. But how will they react? She fled a gilded prison and a violent man who wanted her for his vile plans. Will they persevere? Will love conquer all?
♡
Y'all, this scratched an itch, I didn't know I had. In a world where Omegas and Alphas are known as the Designated, and do not shift. But glands, bites, and knots very much exist! It delivers on plot, romance, tense atmosphere, KNOTTING, and I got a trip to grovel city! There's something about simpering men that hits just right. Esta is a force, a take-no-shit Omega that demands to be seen and heard. So it was just a matter of time before all the Alphas fell for her. Hale, the boss-man with a fractured past and a broken heart. Ruck, the charming younger brother, with the inability to be still. And Oliver, the neglected Alpha who can't read, and just wants to be loved. Sparks flew off the pages, and I couldn't put it down.
Releases February 10th on Kindle!
Thank you to Mae Pierce for this ARC!
Thoughts and opinions are my own!
July 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
I wasn’t expecting to love this as much as I did but damn. I love me a historical western and make it a why choose? Just take my money at this point.
I've never read an omega verse novel before. I never thought I'd even try until I saw this book at a signing with why choose western themes and I couldn't say no to giving it a shot. That's not to mention this absolutely stunning cover.
This story follows our mail order bride and omega in disguise, Esta. She weds our grumpy mmc Hale and we meet the two other alphas that she's to share a roof with, along with Bram, their youngest. She takes on this sort of motherly role over the youngest and maintains the household whilst slowly falling for these three hunky men.
And when I tell you they fall head over heels for her that is not an understatement. The romance between these three was BLARING with some of the most heartfelt, beautiful confessions I've ever read. The story itself was also so captivating, and I just found myself absolutely blown away by Mae's writing.
The world building was also incredibly unique and I felt so immersed in the story I truly wish I had more I didn't want it to ever end.
Tropes:
Grump x Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Why Choose MMFM
Mail-Order Bride
Omegaverse
Touch her & Die
Possessive and Obsessive MMC's
Can't wait to read Omega Forged & The rest of Mae's works!
I wasn’t expecting to love this as much as I did but damn. I love me a historical western and make it a why choose? Just take my money at this point.
I've never read an omega verse novel before. I never thought I'd even try until I saw this book at a signing with why choose western themes and I couldn't say no to giving it a shot. That's not to mention this absolutely stunning cover.
This story follows our mail order bride and omega in disguise, Esta. She weds our grumpy mmc Hale and we meet the two other alphas that she's to share a roof with, along with Bram, their youngest. She takes on this sort of motherly role over the youngest and maintains the household whilst slowly falling for these three hunky men.
And when I tell you they fall head over heels for her that is not an understatement. The romance between these three was BLARING with some of the most heartfelt, beautiful confessions I've ever read. The story itself was also so captivating, and I just found myself absolutely blown away by Mae's writing.
The world building was also incredibly unique and I felt so immersed in the story I truly wish I had more I didn't want it to ever end.
Tropes:
Grump x Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Why Choose MMFM
Mail-Order Bride
Omegaverse
Touch her & Die
Possessive and Obsessive MMC's
Can't wait to read Omega Forged & The rest of Mae's works!
January 10, 2025
Okay I loved this book. It had a combination of some of my favorite things: omegaverse, why choose, historical vibes (old western), slow burn, forced proximity, hidden identity, and so much more!
Our FMC was strong yet still had a soft heart, and really wanted to work and earn her place, which was very admirable. She felt like a real person, not just a character, and that in itself is a beautiful thing.
Now our MMCs!? I get it, Esta, I want them all too! They are the most delicious mix of burly, brooding, possessive, doting, and passionate as alphas. I like how they each had their own personalities and complemented Esta well.
Thank you Mae Pierce for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Our FMC was strong yet still had a soft heart, and really wanted to work and earn her place, which was very admirable. She felt like a real person, not just a character, and that in itself is a beautiful thing.
Now our MMCs!? I get it, Esta, I want them all too! They are the most delicious mix of burly, brooding, possessive, doting, and passionate as alphas. I like how they each had their own personalities and complemented Esta well.
Thank you Mae Pierce for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
did-not-finish
February 25, 2025Putting it down at 57%. Without a solid plot outside of the romance, I can't muster the energy to read another 200 pages.
March 30, 2025
4.75 🌟
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters: 5/5
Spice: 3.5/5
Omegaverse
Historical
Why Choose
Brothers
Found Family
Omega On The Run
Touch Her & Perish
Grovel
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters: 5/5
Spice: 3.5/5
Omegaverse
Historical
Why Choose
Brothers
Found Family
Omega On The Run
Touch Her & Perish
Grovel
January 21, 2025
What if an alpha does not wish to lose his mind over an omega's irresistible charms?
I received this ARC copy for free from the author. It does not affect my review
I really wanted to love this book, but I just didn't.
The start was good. Getting to know each other, trying to change who you were to become the person you wish to be.
When the book's big conflict happened, I wanted to stop. Hale's hatred for omegas is just barely disguised misogyny. He hates them for what they are, not for who they are.
No one in his environment called him out on this. They all found it perfectly logical to hate an entire gender/designation because of some events.
This just gave the book incredibly bad vibes. I did not want them to get back together. The grovel phase was good, but I would have been much happier without Hale in this book. I would have preferred to have her married to Ruck with Oliver on the side.
In terms of pace, the book dragged for me. It felt slightly bloated with unnecessary scenes that probably served to set the mood but made me impatient for it to be over.
In terms of content, I disliked the religious themes as well as the HEAVY discrimination plotline. I wish I'd known this before starting because it's not a fun read.
I received this ARC copy for free from the author. It does not affect my review
I really wanted to love this book, but I just didn't.
The start was good. Getting to know each other, trying to change who you were to become the person you wish to be.
When the book's big conflict happened, I wanted to stop. Hale's hatred for omegas is just barely disguised misogyny. He hates them for what they are, not for who they are.
No one in his environment called him out on this. They all found it perfectly logical to hate an entire gender/designation because of some events.
This just gave the book incredibly bad vibes. I did not want them to get back together. The grovel phase was good, but I would have been much happier without Hale in this book. I would have preferred to have her married to Ruck with Oliver on the side.
In terms of pace, the book dragged for me. It felt slightly bloated with unnecessary scenes that probably served to set the mood but made me impatient for it to be over.
In terms of content, I disliked the religious themes as well as the HEAVY discrimination plotline. I wish I'd known this before starting because it's not a fun read.
January 13, 2025
Genre: Adult Omegaverse
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
Tropes & themes: MFMM omegaverse, mail-order bride, historical western, marriage of convenience, slow burn, forced proximity, yearning, hurt/care, secret omega, small town, designations are “lesser,” forbidden romance, surprise heat, inexperienced / sheltered FMC, found family, pioneering spirit, and more.
Spoiler-free summary:
Hale Hartlock wants a wife. Not for himself, but for their child brother that has run feral since the death of their mother. He doesn’t even care who she is, so long as she isn’t an omega. Esta is running from her life in the city, where her family’s status as Designated cages her in a nightmare. That’s why she had no choice but to answer Mr. Hartlock’s ad. However, she wasn’t counting on his visceral hatred for omegas, which makes it impossible for her to come clean, especially when she realizes that she’s fallen for her husband… and his brother…and best friend too.
Thoughts:
I’m having a hard time putting into words how much I love this book. I’m genuinely nearly speechless with satisfaction and soul deep happiness that this story exists.
There is something so incredibly special about the world the author has created, and the way western romance and omegaverse have been so artfully woven together. I am obsessed with the societal split between the “Designated,” those with a designation, and humans. I love how this turned omegaverse hierarchy on its head, and how the author created the deep sense of cultural loss for the Designated.
The writing itself was so beautifully vibrant and full of imagery. My brain feels well fed.
As for the romance, my gods. This story is brimming with yearning! Esta wishes for romance with her husband of convenience, all while fighting the feelings she has for Ruck and Oliver—feelings that society has told her are wrong, but her heart say are so, so right. And don’t get me started on the sweet, sweet torture of two men in love with a woman that isn’t theirs. The taboo of it all was perfection.
I don’t want to give too much away about the dips and twists in the plot that these characters are forced to face, but know that I was completely hooked from page one and never once lost my obsession.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
Tropes & themes: MFMM omegaverse, mail-order bride, historical western, marriage of convenience, slow burn, forced proximity, yearning, hurt/care, secret omega, small town, designations are “lesser,” forbidden romance, surprise heat, inexperienced / sheltered FMC, found family, pioneering spirit, and more.
Spoiler-free summary:
Hale Hartlock wants a wife. Not for himself, but for their child brother that has run feral since the death of their mother. He doesn’t even care who she is, so long as she isn’t an omega. Esta is running from her life in the city, where her family’s status as Designated cages her in a nightmare. That’s why she had no choice but to answer Mr. Hartlock’s ad. However, she wasn’t counting on his visceral hatred for omegas, which makes it impossible for her to come clean, especially when she realizes that she’s fallen for her husband… and his brother…and best friend too.
Thoughts:
I’m having a hard time putting into words how much I love this book. I’m genuinely nearly speechless with satisfaction and soul deep happiness that this story exists.
There is something so incredibly special about the world the author has created, and the way western romance and omegaverse have been so artfully woven together. I am obsessed with the societal split between the “Designated,” those with a designation, and humans. I love how this turned omegaverse hierarchy on its head, and how the author created the deep sense of cultural loss for the Designated.
The writing itself was so beautifully vibrant and full of imagery. My brain feels well fed.
As for the romance, my gods. This story is brimming with yearning! Esta wishes for romance with her husband of convenience, all while fighting the feelings she has for Ruck and Oliver—feelings that society has told her are wrong, but her heart say are so, so right. And don’t get me started on the sweet, sweet torture of two men in love with a woman that isn’t theirs. The taboo of it all was perfection.
I don’t want to give too much away about the dips and twists in the plot that these characters are forced to face, but know that I was completely hooked from page one and never once lost my obsession.
January 7, 2025
As someone who fell super hard for the rugged men in Yellowstones prequel 1884 (specifically Tim McGraw) this book hit all the marks for me.
Omegaverse ✅
Historical romance ✅
Mail order bride running from her past ✅
Cowboys ✅
Hurt/comfort/groveling ✅
Single parent (older brother but still) ✅
Cute animals ✅
I cried three times reading this book it was so good. I didn’t want it to end!!! I was kinda excited cause near the end it was hinting about the sister and her pack and was really hoping we would get a book of that but that doesn’t seem the case! (Missed opportunity!!!)
Otherwise no notes- it was everything I wanted and more. Chefs kiss.
((I was provided an arc by the author in exchange for an honest review.))
Omegaverse ✅
Historical romance ✅
Mail order bride running from her past ✅
Cowboys ✅
Hurt/comfort/groveling ✅
Single parent (older brother but still) ✅
Cute animals ✅
I cried three times reading this book it was so good. I didn’t want it to end!!! I was kinda excited cause near the end it was hinting about the sister and her pack and was really hoping we would get a book of that but that doesn’t seem the case! (Missed opportunity!!!)
Otherwise no notes- it was everything I wanted and more. Chefs kiss.
((I was provided an arc by the author in exchange for an honest review.))
January 10, 2025
I was SO SO lucky to get to read this book early, and when I say that it was easily one of my favorite books of 2024, I am *not* exaggerating.
When the author said it was a “historical western why choose omegaverse” I was like.. “I like all those things…but I’ve never read them all together. Like a hodgepodge of tropes”😂
AND LO AND BEHOLD IT WORKED.
Not only did it work, it worked SO WELL that I don’t know how more omegaverse authors havent jumped into freaking Western Historical Cowboy Why Choose romance like what an untapped genre! Please.. DEAR GOD.. give me more Alpha cowboys!
Esta is one of the best heroines I’ve had the pleasure of reading. So has decided to become a mail order bride (for her own very good/respectable reasons), and takes the train to the frontier to meet her husband.. an alpha cowboy with a brother and a farm hand all around the same age.
Hale is the main MMC that we meet— he owns/runs a farm/ranch and lives there with his brother, his best friend and his youngest brother who is in *desperate* need of a female influence. In fact— thats pretty much the only reason he agrees to take a mail order bride. Theres too much testosterone at the ranch, and something desperately needs to be done. But there’s a caveat— Hale refuses to take an Omega wife. He can’t stand Omegas (and you’ll find out why!) and wants to make sure his new wife is a Beta.
Well, unfortunately for Hale, Ruck and Oliver.. Esta is 100% Omega.. and shes in trouble. The fastest way to get to the furthest place from her trouble is taking Hale Hartlock up on his mail order bride advertisement. After all, she has illegal tea that masks everything about her Omega nature— what could go wrong?
Needless to say, the men all fall pretty dang fast for Esta. Their friendships and relationships are amazing. Hale continues to be a reluctant groom for quite some time after she gets there, so the angst is real. It gets real real when Esta runs out of her tea and goes into a surprise heat. A heat that Ruck and Oliver are more than happy to handle on their own since her husband leaves her alone and in agony.
The grovel in this book is MORE than adequate IMO. The relationships are perfection. The characters are absolutely lovely. The growth is even better. And the world building? Mae has created something that makes you feel like youre physically in this alternate world. Her writing is poetic and beautiful.
I’m telling you guys.. you are going to want to read this. Especially if you love a good Betrayal and Grovel!
When the author said it was a “historical western why choose omegaverse” I was like.. “I like all those things…but I’ve never read them all together. Like a hodgepodge of tropes”😂
AND LO AND BEHOLD IT WORKED.
Not only did it work, it worked SO WELL that I don’t know how more omegaverse authors havent jumped into freaking Western Historical Cowboy Why Choose romance like what an untapped genre! Please.. DEAR GOD.. give me more Alpha cowboys!
Esta is one of the best heroines I’ve had the pleasure of reading. So has decided to become a mail order bride (for her own very good/respectable reasons), and takes the train to the frontier to meet her husband.. an alpha cowboy with a brother and a farm hand all around the same age.
Hale is the main MMC that we meet— he owns/runs a farm/ranch and lives there with his brother, his best friend and his youngest brother who is in *desperate* need of a female influence. In fact— thats pretty much the only reason he agrees to take a mail order bride. Theres too much testosterone at the ranch, and something desperately needs to be done. But there’s a caveat— Hale refuses to take an Omega wife. He can’t stand Omegas (and you’ll find out why!) and wants to make sure his new wife is a Beta.
Well, unfortunately for Hale, Ruck and Oliver.. Esta is 100% Omega.. and shes in trouble. The fastest way to get to the furthest place from her trouble is taking Hale Hartlock up on his mail order bride advertisement. After all, she has illegal tea that masks everything about her Omega nature— what could go wrong?
Needless to say, the men all fall pretty dang fast for Esta. Their friendships and relationships are amazing. Hale continues to be a reluctant groom for quite some time after she gets there, so the angst is real. It gets real real when Esta runs out of her tea and goes into a surprise heat. A heat that Ruck and Oliver are more than happy to handle on their own since her husband leaves her alone and in agony.
The grovel in this book is MORE than adequate IMO. The relationships are perfection. The characters are absolutely lovely. The growth is even better. And the world building? Mae has created something that makes you feel like youre physically in this alternate world. Her writing is poetic and beautiful.
I’m telling you guys.. you are going to want to read this. Especially if you love a good Betrayal and Grovel!
January 31, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Love a good 'Why choose'? What about 'Omega verse'? How about a group of burley, brooding ranchers from the 1800's? Then this book is for you!!!
Omega founded is historical omega verse romance novel that explores the tragedies and diversities of being an omega in the old western times, where humans rule, and omegas are expected to abide by their rules and just exist by their standards. Even if it goes against their biological needs.
Our FMC is fierce, strong and has a lot to prove. And she's determined to show these tough western men that she is resilient enough to learn their ways and thrive. However, a bomb shell secret she's keeping from her newlywed husband might just send her entire new life crashing into flames.
Can she navigate the tricky situation she's been forced to put herself in, and find the happiness she's so desperate for? Or perhaps she'll find a surprising alternative path to take instead.
Our MMC'S have made a sustainable life for themselves after tragedy's plagued their pasts. Each one of them have their own story to tell, some worse than others. Can one 'beta' have the compacity and humanity to bring warmth and life back into Heartlock ranch and give each of them the pieces of their hearts that each one is missing in their own distinctive ways?
Mae Pierce has done a wonderful job with the character development in this book and has such a wonderful eye for little details that paint the perfect picture of landscapes for a small western town and old living ways. If you enjoy homesteading this will ignite your passion for it all over again.
TROPES!!!
second chance romance, forced proximity, friends to lovers, slow burn, insta love, forbidden love, marriage of convenience, arranged marriage, love triangle, opposites attract, who did this to you?, polyamorous, grumpy/sunshine, small town romance, city girl/country men, stuck together, betrayal and redemption, hurt/comfort, mail order bride, rebellion against authority, identity crisis, found family, chosen family vs. blood family
TRIGGERS!!!
abuse, abusive relationship (not MMC), alcohol, anxiety, blood, bodily fluids, bullying, classism, death of a loved one (off page), domestic abuse, drowning, emotional abuse, epidemics (off page), family conflicts, fear, fighting, fire, forced actions, gore, graphic sex, guns, harassment, hostage situation, human trafficking (off page), illness, incarceration, injury, kidnapping, manipulation, nudity, pain, physical abuse, physical assault, political conflict, PTSD, pregnancy, religious conflict, religious discrimination, scars, screaming, shaming, sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual discrimination, smoking, snakes, threats, torture, violence, weapons
Love a good 'Why choose'? What about 'Omega verse'? How about a group of burley, brooding ranchers from the 1800's? Then this book is for you!!!
Omega founded is historical omega verse romance novel that explores the tragedies and diversities of being an omega in the old western times, where humans rule, and omegas are expected to abide by their rules and just exist by their standards. Even if it goes against their biological needs.
Our FMC is fierce, strong and has a lot to prove. And she's determined to show these tough western men that she is resilient enough to learn their ways and thrive. However, a bomb shell secret she's keeping from her newlywed husband might just send her entire new life crashing into flames.
Can she navigate the tricky situation she's been forced to put herself in, and find the happiness she's so desperate for? Or perhaps she'll find a surprising alternative path to take instead.
Our MMC'S have made a sustainable life for themselves after tragedy's plagued their pasts. Each one of them have their own story to tell, some worse than others. Can one 'beta' have the compacity and humanity to bring warmth and life back into Heartlock ranch and give each of them the pieces of their hearts that each one is missing in their own distinctive ways?
Mae Pierce has done a wonderful job with the character development in this book and has such a wonderful eye for little details that paint the perfect picture of landscapes for a small western town and old living ways. If you enjoy homesteading this will ignite your passion for it all over again.
TROPES!!!
second chance romance, forced proximity, friends to lovers, slow burn, insta love, forbidden love, marriage of convenience, arranged marriage, love triangle, opposites attract, who did this to you?, polyamorous, grumpy/sunshine, small town romance, city girl/country men, stuck together, betrayal and redemption, hurt/comfort, mail order bride, rebellion against authority, identity crisis, found family, chosen family vs. blood family
TRIGGERS!!!
abuse, abusive relationship (not MMC), alcohol, anxiety, blood, bodily fluids, bullying, classism, death of a loved one (off page), domestic abuse, drowning, emotional abuse, epidemics (off page), family conflicts, fear, fighting, fire, forced actions, gore, graphic sex, guns, harassment, hostage situation, human trafficking (off page), illness, incarceration, injury, kidnapping, manipulation, nudity, pain, physical abuse, physical assault, political conflict, PTSD, pregnancy, religious conflict, religious discrimination, scars, screaming, shaming, sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual discrimination, smoking, snakes, threats, torture, violence, weapons
January 11, 2025
I got the privilege of reading Mae Pierces' latest work Omega Founded as an ARC reader. This book blew my expectations out of the water. I haven't really loved omegaverse books in the past, but I think Pierce has tipped the scales for me. I got major Seven Brides for Seven Brothers vibes. Only, if all 7 brothers fell in love with Millie. And the oldest brother was the big brute that needed educating instead of all 7. In this case it's 3 brothers, and there is a heavy dose of paranormal on the Hartford ranch.
The warm and cosy feels I got from the ranch, the west, and the loveable characters balanced out the amount of times I felt my heartrate kick up from all the stressful details revealed about Estas' past, the hiding, and the lying.
Daniel made my skin crawl before I even got fully introduced to him on the page. So cudos to Pierce for writing such a slimy character. It takes more talent to write a truly vile villain than it does to write a lovable MC in my opinion.
The MCs are evading the law and being hunted down by Daniel for his nefarious schemes while building, breaking (Curse you, Hale.) and mending (Oliver and Ruck, to the rescue!) their relationships on the ranch. The familial relationship building between Esta and her little brother-in-law Bram was a treat amongst all the other hurdles these MCs were put through.
This book had a very tasteful romance:plot ratio. The smut was there obviously but it didn't overpower or cheapen the story with it's presence. You can find on Pierces' Instagram exactly how many spicy scenes there are as well as some other details about the book. Her character art is also pretty cute!
My only complaint is that I wish Esta would've trusted in her forgiveness of Hale sooner. I loved the big declarations and the groveling that Hale was forced to do. It was clear that Esta had already forgiven him long before she admitted it, and so her actions seemed vindictive towards the end of his redemption arch. This didn't stop me from eating this book up in one night though.
The warm and cosy feels I got from the ranch, the west, and the loveable characters balanced out the amount of times I felt my heartrate kick up from all the stressful details revealed about Estas' past, the hiding, and the lying.
Daniel made my skin crawl before I even got fully introduced to him on the page. So cudos to Pierce for writing such a slimy character. It takes more talent to write a truly vile villain than it does to write a lovable MC in my opinion.
The MCs are evading the law and being hunted down by Daniel for his nefarious schemes while building, breaking (Curse you, Hale.) and mending (Oliver and Ruck, to the rescue!) their relationships on the ranch. The familial relationship building between Esta and her little brother-in-law Bram was a treat amongst all the other hurdles these MCs were put through.
This book had a very tasteful romance:plot ratio. The smut was there obviously but it didn't overpower or cheapen the story with it's presence. You can find on Pierces' Instagram exactly how many spicy scenes there are as well as some other details about the book. Her character art is also pretty cute!
My only complaint is that I wish Esta would've trusted in her forgiveness of Hale sooner. I loved the big declarations and the groveling that Hale was forced to do. It was clear that Esta had already forgiven him long before she admitted it, and so her actions seemed vindictive towards the end of his redemption arch. This didn't stop me from eating this book up in one night though.
February 11, 2025
Really fun read with some juicy rejection and grovelling ☺️
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2.5🌶🌶
🐎Packs are Outlawed
🐎Grovelling
🐎Slow burn Why choose
🐎Omegaverse
🐎Mail order bride
🐎Historical western
🐎Omega on the run and in disguise
Esta is an omega on the run, from an abusive fiancée, disguising herself as a beta.
Hale, an alpha, places an ad for a beta wife, he needs a wife to help guide his younger brother Bram, but he has a strong dislike for omegas. Assuring his brother Ruck and ranch hand Oliver that having a beautiful beta bride wouldn’t change their lives or feelings. Sure Hale, sure 😆
The historical western backdrop adds a unique twist to the omegaverse, and the dynamics within the Hartlock pack are really engaging. I like that we have the added tension of the packs being outlawed, and the designated people are being forced to follow the ways of the humans even though its against their nature.
Bram was a really fun character couldn’t help but laugh at his hilarious antics and it was so nice watching Esta break down his tough walls.
I adored how tender Ruck and Oliver were with Esta, and it was great to see Esta make Hale really work for her affection. Mae really knows how to make her men grovel ,and I'm here for it 😊
I read this as an arc, these are my honest opinions on the book.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2.5🌶🌶
🐎Packs are Outlawed
🐎Grovelling
🐎Slow burn Why choose
🐎Omegaverse
🐎Mail order bride
🐎Historical western
🐎Omega on the run and in disguise
Esta is an omega on the run, from an abusive fiancée, disguising herself as a beta.
Hale, an alpha, places an ad for a beta wife, he needs a wife to help guide his younger brother Bram, but he has a strong dislike for omegas. Assuring his brother Ruck and ranch hand Oliver that having a beautiful beta bride wouldn’t change their lives or feelings. Sure Hale, sure 😆
The historical western backdrop adds a unique twist to the omegaverse, and the dynamics within the Hartlock pack are really engaging. I like that we have the added tension of the packs being outlawed, and the designated people are being forced to follow the ways of the humans even though its against their nature.
Bram was a really fun character couldn’t help but laugh at his hilarious antics and it was so nice watching Esta break down his tough walls.
I adored how tender Ruck and Oliver were with Esta, and it was great to see Esta make Hale really work for her affection. Mae really knows how to make her men grovel ,and I'm here for it 😊
I read this as an arc, these are my honest opinions on the book.
March 3, 2025
This book had its good moments, but I was promised a denied heat, and grovelling. This book did many time jumps and the small moments were missed. These moments would have made the grovel hurt just right but instead my chest just gave a little twitches.
I liked so many aspects of this story, I just wished the grovel would have lived up to the actions promised. Hale made her feel so inferior and unworthy and also question everything about herself and her nature. I just wished we would have seen the work Hale did on himself and also how he won her back in detail instead of saying what happened or Esta just accepting him back the way she did.
This book also felt so LONG. The book hit such a lull 50% in and I ended up glossing over much of it.
I loved Oliver tho! Ruck was great too but Oliver had my heart !!!
I liked so many aspects of this story, I just wished the grovel would have lived up to the actions promised. Hale made her feel so inferior and unworthy and also question everything about herself and her nature. I just wished we would have seen the work Hale did on himself and also how he won her back in detail instead of saying what happened or Esta just accepting him back the way she did.
This book also felt so LONG. The book hit such a lull 50% in and I ended up glossing over much of it.
I loved Oliver tho! Ruck was great too but Oliver had my heart !!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
Am I in my western era? This book may have single-handedly put me in my western era. I LOVED the combo of cowboy romance and omegaverse. The angst and adventure of the Wild West combined with the comfort and spice of omegaverse is perfectly done. Definitely a must read for lovers of both genres!
Also huge compliments to the author for having one of the MMCs do some MAJOR groveling after hurting our FMC. I don’t usually like this trope, but it was so well done here. The pack dynamics felt so genuine, especially in a society that is not accepting. Oliver is for sure my newest book boyfriend, we love the sweet and quiet ones.
Also huge compliments to the author for having one of the MMCs do some MAJOR groveling after hurting our FMC. I don’t usually like this trope, but it was so well done here. The pack dynamics felt so genuine, especially in a society that is not accepting. Oliver is for sure my newest book boyfriend, we love the sweet and quiet ones.
January 9, 2025
This was my first ARC read and I cannot say how much I enjoyed this book! I was intrigued and invested from the first chapter and it just got better!
Esta is an amazing FMC who understands her self worth and won’t allow herself to be treated less than anymore. Hale is genuinely a good MMC with some trauma to work through. Oliver was my favorite MMC and Ruck was pretty great too. I loved the groveling that Hale did and I thought it was sufficient and was extremely happy Esta didn’t just forgive him easily.
There were multiple twists in this book but they worked so well and didn’t make me get confused at all! I never got bored while reading this book and was constantly invested in the story! I would say it was around a 2.5-3/5 on the spice, the scenes were great but fitting for the setting of the book. This book was set in 1880 and I was worried because I’ve never been interested in historical book settings before but Mae hit it out of the park with this one! One of my first reads of 2025 and probably one of my favorites!
Esta is an amazing FMC who understands her self worth and won’t allow herself to be treated less than anymore. Hale is genuinely a good MMC with some trauma to work through. Oliver was my favorite MMC and Ruck was pretty great too. I loved the groveling that Hale did and I thought it was sufficient and was extremely happy Esta didn’t just forgive him easily.
There were multiple twists in this book but they worked so well and didn’t make me get confused at all! I never got bored while reading this book and was constantly invested in the story! I would say it was around a 2.5-3/5 on the spice, the scenes were great but fitting for the setting of the book. This book was set in 1880 and I was worried because I’ve never been interested in historical book settings before but Mae hit it out of the park with this one! One of my first reads of 2025 and probably one of my favorites!
February 14, 2025
3.5 Stars
May 21, 2025
The writing is good but the book was kind of boring.
February 9, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
I am sucker for anything omegaverse! I was very interested to see where Mae was going to take this western settlement omegaverse.
Granted it took a little while to get used to the language used as it’s been a long time since I had anything to do western settlement movies.
But oh my god it was a mix of love and finding where you belong. There were some questionable moments with the one of the MMCs but he got there in the end.
I think I said I Mae when I yelled at her about her burning something down I wasn’t happy about it.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 4.5/5
I am sucker for anything omegaverse! I was very interested to see where Mae was going to take this western settlement omegaverse.
Granted it took a little while to get used to the language used as it’s been a long time since I had anything to do western settlement movies.
But oh my god it was a mix of love and finding where you belong. There were some questionable moments with the one of the MMCs but he got there in the end.
I think I said I Mae when I yelled at her about her burning something down I wasn’t happy about it.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 4.5/5
February 10, 2025
Omega Founded was my first RH and I really liked it! I loved the setting and all of the characters. The long grovel was something I really appreciated and wish happened in more books. I also loved that all of the heroes were in love with the heroine; no MM, thankfully. I would definitely read more in this world!
June 14, 2025
If you like Omegaverse stories you will love this one… set in the 1880 we follow the story of Esta who leaves the city for the wild lands in search of freedom.
One of my favourite part is the character growth Esta shows throughout the book. She stars as a scared, delicate and timid beta and becomes this beautiful, confident omega.
About her partners we have the Hartlock Brothers, all three alphas a very different, Oliver is super cute, Ruck has a quiet intensity that will draw you in and Hale will drive you crazy.
I will add there is grovelling and I’m happy to tell you Esta does not just forgive and forget she makes him work for it!
One of my favourite part is the character growth Esta shows throughout the book. She stars as a scared, delicate and timid beta and becomes this beautiful, confident omega.
About her partners we have the Hartlock Brothers, all three alphas a very different, Oliver is super cute, Ruck has a quiet intensity that will draw you in and Hale will drive you crazy.
I will add there is grovelling and I’m happy to tell you Esta does not just forgive and forget she makes him work for it!
February 21, 2025
Not usually one for historical but this was pretty cute.
January 6, 2025
I'm usually not a fan of old-timey / historical novels, but I really enjoyed this one! It's based in 1880, and humans and Designated (Alphas, Betas and Omegas) for the most part don't get along. "Heirarchy Laws" have been passed to make them more "equal," though it's still fairly one-sided in favour of the humans. After being abused by a human who was determined to marry her, she answered an ad in a newspaper searching for a bride and fled to the outskirts of the wilderness. Here she met her husband-to-be, Hale, his brother Ruck, and their farm hand, Oliver. They were all stricken by her the moment they saw her, but of course she was only to be married to Hale. What no one knew was that she was an Omega, despite the ad requesting only Betas, due to Hale's hatred of the Omega Designation (which we learn about throughout the book). She meant to come clean about it right away, since her scent was hidden by a special tea she had taken to keep hidden on the train, but then she feared they'd send her away, so she kept it a secret for a little bit longer.
Needless to say, her secret does get out, and Hale is angry. He wants her gone, despite how close the two seemed to be getting previously. Both Ruck and Oliver are furious about his decision, and eventually want to fight to keep her. They wish they could have her, but as per the "Heirarchy Laws," packs are forbidden.
How will Hale, Ruck and Oliver find a solution? Does Hale get his head back on straight?
The spice is about a 2.5/5, which I enjoy. I like that there's more plot and character building than just spice. It's spaced out nicely, in my opinion. There's a little agnst but not much, a woman who wants to cause OWD, but the MMC wants nothing to do with her, one or two of the guys are mentioned to have interactions with women off page before being with the FMC, mentions of abuse, some on page SA, kidnapping, etc. There's nothing crazy, but check your TWs just in case!
If you like any kind of Omegaverse, historical or old-timey romance, or cowboys / country / small town romance, you should definitely give this read a chance!
Needless to say, her secret does get out, and Hale is angry. He wants her gone, despite how close the two seemed to be getting previously. Both Ruck and Oliver are furious about his decision, and eventually want to fight to keep her. They wish they could have her, but as per the "Heirarchy Laws," packs are forbidden.
How will Hale, Ruck and Oliver find a solution? Does Hale get his head back on straight?
The spice is about a 2.5/5, which I enjoy. I like that there's more plot and character building than just spice. It's spaced out nicely, in my opinion. There's a little agnst but not much, a woman who wants to cause OWD, but the MMC wants nothing to do with her, one or two of the guys are mentioned to have interactions with women off page before being with the FMC, mentions of abuse, some on page SA, kidnapping, etc. There's nothing crazy, but check your TWs just in case!
If you like any kind of Omegaverse, historical or old-timey romance, or cowboys / country / small town romance, you should definitely give this read a chance!
February 14, 2025
The couple: Hale/Ruck/Oliver and Esta
Romance trope: omegaverse
Series: Hartlock Omegas
Length: 460 pages
Plot: Esta is on the run from an abusive fiance and in order to escape has answered a want ad for a mail order bride. She finds herself in Misery Creek as the new bride of Hale Hartlock. But Hale only wants a beta and so Esta will continue to hide her omega designation. But what happens when Hale finds out what she really is? What happens when it seems like an outlawed pack is the only choice they have? And what happens when trouble finally finds Esta and her alphas?
Commentary: I did enjoy this one. There was a section of the book (when Hale has rejected Esta) that I cried, a lot. I loved Esta as a character. Of course, Hale was infuriating because his intractability didn't make any sense - to be mad at omegas for being omegas when he wanted to be accepted and not discriminated against because of his designation? It did beggar belief just a little that Ruck and Oliver were okay right away with sharing, dirty talking, pack life - with little to no angst. Oliver especially was like, yep, all in. Of course, he was the one most starved for affection. I found it sad that Hale, knowing that Oliver was his brother, didn't see the unfairness in how he was treated. To Hale, his dad was the best (and of course he has revelations about that later, but still) and Oliver had no problems. When we got Hale's perspective, I thought that his mom acted as Oliver's mom, living and kind, etc., as she was described. It turns out she was borderline neglectful and abusive. I think that is fairly common though, in houses where there is abuse and neglect, for the children to all see it differently. But that was so unfortunate and infair for Oliver - he deserved better. And Esta gave it to him. I love how tender she was with him, and how careful and thoughtful. She built him back up and I was so glad.
Next book in the series: Omega Forged
Romance trope: omegaverse
Series: Hartlock Omegas
Length: 460 pages
Plot: Esta is on the run from an abusive fiance and in order to escape has answered a want ad for a mail order bride. She finds herself in Misery Creek as the new bride of Hale Hartlock. But Hale only wants a beta and so Esta will continue to hide her omega designation. But what happens when Hale finds out what she really is? What happens when it seems like an outlawed pack is the only choice they have? And what happens when trouble finally finds Esta and her alphas?
Commentary: I did enjoy this one. There was a section of the book (when Hale has rejected Esta) that I cried, a lot. I loved Esta as a character. Of course, Hale was infuriating because his intractability didn't make any sense - to be mad at omegas for being omegas when he wanted to be accepted and not discriminated against because of his designation? It did beggar belief just a little that Ruck and Oliver were okay right away with sharing, dirty talking, pack life - with little to no angst. Oliver especially was like, yep, all in. Of course, he was the one most starved for affection. I found it sad that Hale, knowing that Oliver was his brother, didn't see the unfairness in how he was treated. To Hale, his dad was the best (and of course he has revelations about that later, but still) and Oliver had no problems. When we got Hale's perspective, I thought that his mom acted as Oliver's mom, living and kind, etc., as she was described. It turns out she was borderline neglectful and abusive. I think that is fairly common though, in houses where there is abuse and neglect, for the children to all see it differently. But that was so unfortunate and infair for Oliver - he deserved better. And Esta gave it to him. I love how tender she was with him, and how careful and thoughtful. She built him back up and I was so glad.
Next book in the series: Omega Forged
February 27, 2025
Omegaverse set in a historical western, starring a mail order bride and cowboy alphas. Consider my mind blown. I drained this book faster than a barrel of ice cold gin & tonic after a long day - and it was every bit as scintillating, as I thought it might be.
Esta, Hale, Ruck and Oliver. Esta arrives in their po-dunk town as a mail order bride for Hale, who needs a feminine touch for his all-male alpha household. Hale is very clear that he only wants a beta bride, as he detests omegas (back story here) but Esta, in her desperation to escape her abusive past, fails to mention the one little detail ...that she is in fact, an omega. Although she is married to Hale, there is clearly an attraction with Ruck and Oliver, which is further complicated when Esta's omega designation is revealed. Hale is unable to overcome his omega hate and rejects Esta in the most awful ways, Ruck & Oliver are a little more reserved in their judgment. Hale eventually realizes the error of his ways and tries to make amends, but Esta isn't quick to forgive him (good girl!) and she proceeds to live it up with his brothers, while he is forced to eat doo-doo and wait around till she changes her mind. In the meantime, her abusive past resurfaces and there's all kinds of drama & emotion, as the alphas battle to keep their omega. Spoiler Alert: there is a HEA with all the alpha men.
This was a great read for a few reasons:
* Hale's grovelling & begging was fantastic and Esta is a bad witch with a b. He was a total anus to Esta and deserved every bit of torture she makes him go through, including her fun times with his brothers that he is forced to witness. He tries to leave and she actually makes him sit & watch.
*Buried messages and themes around being authentic to who you are, escaping social constructs and other people's ideas of who you should be - including who and how you love. Feels very relevant for today's context.
*Unique cross over plot with a good amount of drama, tension, spice, suspense. It was fast paced, entertaining and I loved it.
HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend, excited for Book 2 in the series....
Esta, Hale, Ruck and Oliver. Esta arrives in their po-dunk town as a mail order bride for Hale, who needs a feminine touch for his all-male alpha household. Hale is very clear that he only wants a beta bride, as he detests omegas (back story here) but Esta, in her desperation to escape her abusive past, fails to mention the one little detail ...that she is in fact, an omega. Although she is married to Hale, there is clearly an attraction with Ruck and Oliver, which is further complicated when Esta's omega designation is revealed. Hale is unable to overcome his omega hate and rejects Esta in the most awful ways, Ruck & Oliver are a little more reserved in their judgment. Hale eventually realizes the error of his ways and tries to make amends, but Esta isn't quick to forgive him (good girl!) and she proceeds to live it up with his brothers, while he is forced to eat doo-doo and wait around till she changes her mind. In the meantime, her abusive past resurfaces and there's all kinds of drama & emotion, as the alphas battle to keep their omega. Spoiler Alert: there is a HEA with all the alpha men.
This was a great read for a few reasons:
* Hale's grovelling & begging was fantastic and Esta is a bad witch with a b. He was a total anus to Esta and deserved every bit of torture she makes him go through, including her fun times with his brothers that he is forced to witness. He tries to leave and she actually makes him sit & watch.
*Buried messages and themes around being authentic to who you are, escaping social constructs and other people's ideas of who you should be - including who and how you love. Feels very relevant for today's context.
*Unique cross over plot with a good amount of drama, tension, spice, suspense. It was fast paced, entertaining and I loved it.
HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend, excited for Book 2 in the series....
February 12, 2025
4.5⭐️
“𝘐 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘊𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘷𝘢𝘴.”
sometimes i don’t read the entire blurb of a book and just go into it. so i didn’t know that that this was a historical western omegaverse. it’s not something i usually gravitate towards but i very much enjoyed this.
Esta answers Hale’s ad for a mail-order bride and leaves Breton City for Misery Creek. however Esta brings her secrets along with her to Misery Creek, including the fact that she’s actually an omega pretending to be a beta. and her new husband absolutely hates omegas. but Esta can’t head back to the city and the life she left behind. she need to prove to her new husband, his brothers, and ranch hand that she can survive on the ranch.
this omegaverse world is different in the sense there are humans and then designates (alphas, betas, and omegas) and the humans do not like the designates and think they are beneath them. in this society, packs are also outlawed.
“𝘔𝘺 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘐’𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘌𝘴𝘵𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐’𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳. 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘵, 𝘴𝘶𝘯, 𝘴𝘬𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘸��𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘮.”
“𝘐 𝘨𝘢𝘻𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴. 𝘐 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦. 𝘔𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘰𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘐’𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘴𝘵𝘢, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯’ 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵.”
this book had me feeling all the feels for Esta, but also Hale, Ruck, Oliver, and little brother Bram. each had to come to turns with what Esta’s presence on the ranch means for them individually but together as a family and potential pack. and i loved Esta throughout the entire book and not forgiving Hale right away and making him grovel. you also get tension and build up, esp since Ruck and Oliver feel bad for also wanting Hale’s wife.
this was a great omegaverse and i hope we get a story about Birdie.
“𝘐 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘊𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘷𝘢𝘴.”
sometimes i don’t read the entire blurb of a book and just go into it. so i didn’t know that that this was a historical western omegaverse. it’s not something i usually gravitate towards but i very much enjoyed this.
Esta answers Hale’s ad for a mail-order bride and leaves Breton City for Misery Creek. however Esta brings her secrets along with her to Misery Creek, including the fact that she’s actually an omega pretending to be a beta. and her new husband absolutely hates omegas. but Esta can’t head back to the city and the life she left behind. she need to prove to her new husband, his brothers, and ranch hand that she can survive on the ranch.
this omegaverse world is different in the sense there are humans and then designates (alphas, betas, and omegas) and the humans do not like the designates and think they are beneath them. in this society, packs are also outlawed.
“𝘔𝘺 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘐’𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘌𝘴𝘵𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐’𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳. 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘵, 𝘴𝘶𝘯, 𝘴𝘬𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘸��𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘮.”
“𝘐 𝘨𝘢𝘻𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴. 𝘐 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦. 𝘔𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘰𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘐’𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘴𝘵𝘢, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯’ 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵.”
this book had me feeling all the feels for Esta, but also Hale, Ruck, Oliver, and little brother Bram. each had to come to turns with what Esta’s presence on the ranch means for them individually but together as a family and potential pack. and i loved Esta throughout the entire book and not forgiving Hale right away and making him grovel. you also get tension and build up, esp since Ruck and Oliver feel bad for also wanting Hale’s wife.
this was a great omegaverse and i hope we get a story about Birdie.
June 2, 2025
I did not expect to love this as much as I did!
Mae Pierce delivers a different kind of Omegaverse story—one without the usual tropes. No scent matches, no legal packs, and definitely no instant acceptance. In this world, packs are outlawed, which adds a level of danger and secrecy that really raised the stakes.
Now let’s talk about Hale. Wow. The man was out here casually ruining lives. His words toward Esta hurt ME and I’m not even fictional. He was brutal—honestly, too brutal at times. But when he finally pulled his head out of his hindquarters, I appreciated that Esta didn’t immediately forgive him. She made him work for it, and thank goodness. I’m tired of female leads rolling over at the first apology. Instead, she said:
"I would give him the grace of an open mind.”
That line alone shows her strength. She was open, but not a doormat. She made him earn his way back, and it was so satisfying to watch.
The aphas were an excellent trio. There’s the gruff leader, the light-hearted one who keeps things fun, and the quiet, gentle type. Oliver was hands down my favorite—so soft, so sincere, and completely lovable. Their group dynamic with Esta was strong and well-balanced.
Bram was a sweet addition. What a precious disaster. His storyline could’ve easily felt like a distraction, but instead, it added substance. Esta’s response to him showed how thoughtful and emotionally intelligent she is.
There’s so much potential here for more stories in this world.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
HEA? yes
3rd act break-up? no, but
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
Mae Pierce delivers a different kind of Omegaverse story—one without the usual tropes. No scent matches, no legal packs, and definitely no instant acceptance. In this world, packs are outlawed, which adds a level of danger and secrecy that really raised the stakes.
Now let’s talk about Hale. Wow. The man was out here casually ruining lives. His words toward Esta hurt ME and I’m not even fictional. He was brutal—honestly, too brutal at times. But when he finally pulled his head out of his hindquarters, I appreciated that Esta didn’t immediately forgive him. She made him work for it, and thank goodness. I’m tired of female leads rolling over at the first apology. Instead, she said:
"I would give him the grace of an open mind.”
That line alone shows her strength. She was open, but not a doormat. She made him earn his way back, and it was so satisfying to watch.
The aphas were an excellent trio. There’s the gruff leader, the light-hearted one who keeps things fun, and the quiet, gentle type. Oliver was hands down my favorite—so soft, so sincere, and completely lovable. Their group dynamic with Esta was strong and well-balanced.
Bram was a sweet addition. What a precious disaster. His storyline could’ve easily felt like a distraction, but instead, it added substance. Esta’s response to him showed how thoughtful and emotionally intelligent she is.
There’s so much potential here for more stories in this world.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
HEA? yes
3rd act break-up? no, but
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews