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Beasts of Gatamora #1
Dark City Omega: Beasts of Gatamora, Book 1
“You know I’m going to get away from you eventually.”
“Over my dead body.”
“Yes,” she said, blinking at him like he was an idiot. “Exactly.”
Echo knew that being caught by a ruling Berserker would mean becoming his pawn, a plaything to be used for her powers. That wouldn’t be her fate. She’d rather run lost through the woods forever, dangerous though they may be.
But there’s something even more sinister than beasts and Berserkers lurking in the woods. Something both undead and deadly. She can’t fight it alone. She’ll have to turn to the Berserker who’s caught the trail of her scent and won’t let it go. He says she’s his. She says never. He says forever.
Bones, bonds, and hearts will be broken. Some battles can’t be won. Run, Omega, run. This standalone enemies-to-lovers MF romance is not suitable for a younger audience. Trigger warnings and tropes can be found on Elizabeth's website.
“Over my dead body.”
“Yes,” she said, blinking at him like he was an idiot. “Exactly.”
Echo knew that being caught by a ruling Berserker would mean becoming his pawn, a plaything to be used for her powers. That wouldn’t be her fate. She’d rather run lost through the woods forever, dangerous though they may be.
But there’s something even more sinister than beasts and Berserkers lurking in the woods. Something both undead and deadly. She can’t fight it alone. She’ll have to turn to the Berserker who’s caught the trail of her scent and won’t let it go. He says she’s his. She says never. He says forever.
Bones, bonds, and hearts will be broken. Some battles can’t be won. Run, Omega, run. This standalone enemies-to-lovers MF romance is not suitable for a younger audience. Trigger warnings and tropes can be found on Elizabeth's website.
Audible Audio
First published September 26, 2023
998 people are currently reading
5935 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Stephens
79 books1,379 followersTop 10 USA Today Bestselling author Elizabeth Stephens writes books where beastly men—or sometimes just beasts—always get the girl.
A full-time hybrid indie and traditionally published author, Elizabeth is best known for her Supers in the City series (Montlake) and her indie works like The Bone King and the Starling and Dark City Omega. In all of her books, readers can expect diverse casts, epic world-building, quests with unexpected twists, and women of color being celebrated loudly, Black and biracial women in particular.
When she isn’t writing, you might find Elizabeth enjoying the outdoors of the Pacific Northwest or traveling and making adventures of her own with her husband, tiny humans, and doggo, King Louis.
A full-time hybrid indie and traditionally published author, Elizabeth is best known for her Supers in the City series (Montlake) and her indie works like The Bone King and the Starling and Dark City Omega. In all of her books, readers can expect diverse casts, epic world-building, quests with unexpected twists, and women of color being celebrated loudly, Black and biracial women in particular.
When she isn’t writing, you might find Elizabeth enjoying the outdoors of the Pacific Northwest or traveling and making adventures of her own with her husband, tiny humans, and doggo, King Louis.
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June 10, 2024Well I certainly didn’t intend to start this and just…keep going until I finished it all in one go.
Can’t post a review until the podcast episode is out so I’ll try to remember to come back after June 26 🫡
Can’t post a review until the podcast episode is out so I’ll try to remember to come back after June 26 🫡
October 12, 2023
I really wanted a quick Kindle Unlimited fantasy read, and this was great. Easy reading and a pretty original storyline!!
If you liked any of these, you'll like this series:
- Savage Lands
- Fourth Wing
- Shatter Me
- The Serpent of Wings and Night
- What Lies Beyond The Veil
- A Kingdom of Flame & Fury
- A Kingdom of Stars & Shadows
NOTES:
- Feels like dystopian literature - but not of this realm.
- Smutty... bordering on erotica IMO 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
- Available on Kindle Unlimited
If you liked any of these, you'll like this series:
- Savage Lands
- Fourth Wing
- Shatter Me
- The Serpent of Wings and Night
- What Lies Beyond The Veil
- A Kingdom of Flame & Fury
- A Kingdom of Stars & Shadows
NOTES:
- Feels like dystopian literature - but not of this realm.
- Smutty... bordering on erotica IMO 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
- Available on Kindle Unlimited
September 30, 2023
This book was an off the rails crazy train! Probably Ms. Stephens's darkest book. It was also down right dirty, sexy, high octane, sometimes fast paced, sometimes rich in exquisite details. Echo was a woman I could respect, though there were times I wanted to shake her. The Berserker... man I do love a berserker... I also wanted to hug him and slap him at the same time. This was quite the unique world Ms. Stevens has created and I cannot wait for more. Happy reading!
September 28, 2023
I'd expected an Omega who was meek and beautiful, grateful and obedient. Instead, I got a rage dipped in honey, dragged through shards of glass. An Omega who'd rather kill herself than be mine.
Brutal, grimy, and with a touch of whimsy, this was a journey for sure.
Dark City Omega is a fantasy romance omegaverse (say less, I'm in) based in a dystopian/apocalyptic setting and the writing reflects the gritty, wildness that comes with the territory.
I was feral for the first half of this book: the reluctant Omega and the Berserker/Alpha that's claimed her, the fang-fucking and hate-fucking, the butting of heads and the bumping of uglies, the slow discovery of her powers and what she can do.
The second half tapered off for me: the character and relationship development was choppy, I wasn't entirely convinced of why the two should be together, the relationship conflict wasn't as severe as the character was making it (in my opinion), and while the plot is interesting, I didn't feel entirely invested.
I believe this is marketed as "dark" and I think that's accurate when referring to the setting and the fact that there's reanimation of corpses, but I wouldn't call this a dark romance (just a distinction I feel would be helpful for readers like me). Though the MMC going down on the FMC while she's sleeping and then she says the two of them exchange morning breath and the scent of her unwashed pussy... this was real and raw for sure.
Also, just as I thought I had a decent grasp on the world, I was thrown off by the modern tidbits thrown in. Like the MMC's Six were using computers at one point and I was shook.
Overall though, I laud the author's writing style and enjoyed the reading experience. The book is wonderfully immersive, but there was just some bits that held me back from loving this.
Rating: 3.25
I received an e-arc of this book, however all thoughts are my own.
Brutal, grimy, and with a touch of whimsy, this was a journey for sure.
Dark City Omega is a fantasy romance omegaverse (say less, I'm in) based in a dystopian/apocalyptic setting and the writing reflects the gritty, wildness that comes with the territory.
I was feral for the first half of this book: the reluctant Omega and the Berserker/Alpha that's claimed her, the fang-fucking and hate-fucking, the butting of heads and the bumping of uglies, the slow discovery of her powers and what she can do.
The second half tapered off for me: the character and relationship development was choppy, I wasn't entirely convinced of why the two should be together, the relationship conflict wasn't as severe as the character was making it (in my opinion), and while the plot is interesting, I didn't feel entirely invested.
I believe this is marketed as "dark" and I think that's accurate when referring to the setting and the fact that there's reanimation of corpses, but I wouldn't call this a dark romance (just a distinction I feel would be helpful for readers like me). Though the MMC going down on the FMC while she's sleeping and then she says the two of them exchange morning breath and the scent of her unwashed pussy... this was real and raw for sure.
Also, just as I thought I had a decent grasp on the world, I was thrown off by the modern tidbits thrown in. Like the MMC's Six were using computers at one point and I was shook.
Overall though, I laud the author's writing style and enjoyed the reading experience. The book is wonderfully immersive, but there was just some bits that held me back from loving this.
Rating: 3.25
I received an e-arc of this book, however all thoughts are my own.
February 9, 2024
Seriously took everything in me not to DNF this book. Since I paid for it with the probably smut book club I was determined to finish it. I didn’t enjoy anything about it. I’m not sure if omegaverse just isn’t my cup of tea but this book definitely was not.
The plot doesn’t start until about 50% of the way through. The character development is almost non existent. The smut, cringe. The use of the word f**k, way too often. The weird writing style, so hard to follow.
The plot doesn’t start until about 50% of the way through. The character development is almost non existent. The smut, cringe. The use of the word f**k, way too often. The weird writing style, so hard to follow.
September 14, 2023
This book is my book (the OTHER Elizabeth Stephens – author of Taken to Voraxia and Lord of Population), so don't be confused XD
Poor OTHER Elizabeth's followers are in for a rude awakening as this book will be a far departure from her other works lol
Welcome to Gatamora and the Omegaverse.
xoxo, Elizabeth Stephens
Poor OTHER Elizabeth's followers are in for a rude awakening as this book will be a far departure from her other works lol
Welcome to Gatamora and the Omegaverse.
xoxo, Elizabeth Stephens
November 14, 2023
DNF @ 72%
Ive tried my best to connect with the characters but I give up. The backstory is lacking, endless action scenes change their behavior/opinions/outlook on life so its impossible to understand the characters and connect with them. Therefore Im bored, even though there is plemty going on. Maybe there is just too much going on and therefore its lacking in depth?
Ive tried my best to connect with the characters but I give up. The backstory is lacking, endless action scenes change their behavior/opinions/outlook on life so its impossible to understand the characters and connect with them. Therefore Im bored, even though there is plemty going on. Maybe there is just too much going on and therefore its lacking in depth?
February 3, 2024
2 stars
This was bad. The writing is bad, the plot is bad, I would love to never see this book ever again.
This came in my PS book box and I assumed since it was a book box pick it would be good. I was wrong.
The world building is severely lacking. Why are they hunting down omegas? Why/what is she running from? Why do they have special powers? Why are there zombies? Why is he intentionally making her jealous just to be a dick?
Anyways this book has consumed enough of my time and I will now be forgetting I ever read this.
This was bad. The writing is bad, the plot is bad, I would love to never see this book ever again.
This came in my PS book box and I assumed since it was a book box pick it would be good. I was wrong.
The world building is severely lacking. Why are they hunting down omegas? Why/what is she running from? Why do they have special powers? Why are there zombies? Why is he intentionally making her jealous just to be a dick?
Anyways this book has consumed enough of my time and I will now be forgetting I ever read this.
October 2, 2023
"Hate me, Echo. Because I love the way you hate me. Just so long as you only. Hate. Me."
Dark City Omega was a wild ride! I love, LOVE Echo. She's so darn amazing as one of the leads. She's resilient, stubborn and flawed, while Adam was the same in similar but quite different way! I was sucked into the worldbuilding (I love a good post apocalyptic-y world!) and the story itself. The first time Echo and Adam met was CRAZY. I love how their relationship developed over the course of the book and I was rooting for them the entire way. And that twist?? INSANE. I'm so hyped for the next book!
Dark City Omega was a wild ride! I love, LOVE Echo. She's so darn amazing as one of the leads. She's resilient, stubborn and flawed, while Adam was the same in similar but quite different way! I was sucked into the worldbuilding (I love a good post apocalyptic-y world!) and the story itself. The first time Echo and Adam met was CRAZY. I love how their relationship developed over the course of the book and I was rooting for them the entire way. And that twist?? INSANE. I'm so hyped for the next book!
October 2, 2023
* I received an ARC. Thank you, E. Stephens for the opportunity. This is my honest review.*
I have read several of Stephen's' books, and I love her writing, world-building, diverse characters, and of course the steamy couplings of the MCs. I was excited and looking forward to this read for months. I could tell this was going to be something new for the author; something more intense, dramatic, and darker.
Dark City Omega...the Beasts of Gatamora, I was ready to be devoured by it, but it ended up not "hitting" quite like I thought it would.
The book begins and we meet our lead Omega, Echo. She has just "ascended" into an Omega and must leave the place and others she has known most of her life because of her new status. To be an Omega in this world is dangerous. You are hunted out by Alphas and Berserkers by your scent, for your body and your potential gifts.
The book starts strong. I like Echo, she is strong-willed, feisty, and will do what she must to survive. I love that she stands out with her red hair and freckles. The world of Gatamora is impressive. There are different cities ruled by Alphas or Berserkers, each distinct from the other in terms of their beliefs, societal structure, resources, and of course the Alphas or Berskers and their Omegas.
There's one city that likes to use camels to get around... This was funny to imagine, a big dominant alpha on a camel.
Now, I was prepared for the trope of enemies-to-lovers, the love/hate, but I wouldn't categorize the relationship nor the book as a 'Dark Romance'. It's gritty and has that survival-of-the-fittest vibe and whoever is at the top of the food chain calls the shots and gets the Omegas.
Echo is claimed, against her will of course, by Berserker Dragnovic. I was anticipating a hard and mysterious alpha, representing his territory of Dark City. I didn't get that, but that wasn't a bad thing. Dragnovic is rough, really rough, around the edges with his deep timbre and idolect. I like him, he starts off wanting an omega for what they represent, but then as the story develops we learn more about him and his motivations. He turns out not to be such a big, bad alpha berserker, but again, this leads away from this being a dark romance to me.
Once Echo and Dragnovic make it to Dark City, the transitions between scenes seem choppy or abrupt. There is a lot of back-and-forth between the characters that seems to be a bit dramatic. Almost, like when there is just too much icing on a cake... Some things that are said and done are contradictory to something else that took place or that was said in a previous scene. I thought Echo coming into her powers could have been built better. It seems at first she needs forced direction to do things, then she doesn't, then she is creating so much but there isn't any indication or inner dialog as to how she is able to do this or how she feels or connects to the source or essence of this power.
Echo and Dragnovic spend a lot of the story dirty, like really grimy from the descriptions, and wounded, and there is mention of them not being in any condition to have any relations, but then they turn around and start 'bumping and grinding' and it doesn't seem "realistic" given the situations that they find themselves in. Another scene takes place where Echo mentions she is not used to being touched, I believe this is in Chapter 30, and this doesn't quite make sense because she and Dragnovic have 'Done the Deed' several times. Like...they spent at least three days in heat on top of other moments in Paradise Hole.
The battle that takes place with like 200+ zombies kind of gets skipped over. One moment Echo is readying and telling them to bring it, and then we jump to the Berserker and him facing the Fates.
The plot drives the story of this book, not so much the romance or the heat between the characters. I think this series has really great potential with its Zombie Alpha army and the reckoning the Omega Fates are bringing to the world of Gatamora. There is the twist of the Omegas having affinities for physical and spiritual elements and the presence of doppelgangers. There is a lot going on, but that's the fun part. I want to see how all of this will continue to come together.
I can't say if this will be at the top of my favorites from Stephens, but, I plan to read the next book, as I am looking forward to seeing how this story continues with two new MCs.
I have read several of Stephen's' books, and I love her writing, world-building, diverse characters, and of course the steamy couplings of the MCs. I was excited and looking forward to this read for months. I could tell this was going to be something new for the author; something more intense, dramatic, and darker.
Dark City Omega...the Beasts of Gatamora, I was ready to be devoured by it, but it ended up not "hitting" quite like I thought it would.
The book begins and we meet our lead Omega, Echo. She has just "ascended" into an Omega and must leave the place and others she has known most of her life because of her new status. To be an Omega in this world is dangerous. You are hunted out by Alphas and Berserkers by your scent, for your body and your potential gifts.
The book starts strong. I like Echo, she is strong-willed, feisty, and will do what she must to survive. I love that she stands out with her red hair and freckles. The world of Gatamora is impressive. There are different cities ruled by Alphas or Berserkers, each distinct from the other in terms of their beliefs, societal structure, resources, and of course the Alphas or Berskers and their Omegas.
There's one city that likes to use camels to get around... This was funny to imagine, a big dominant alpha on a camel.
Now, I was prepared for the trope of enemies-to-lovers, the love/hate, but I wouldn't categorize the relationship nor the book as a 'Dark Romance'. It's gritty and has that survival-of-the-fittest vibe and whoever is at the top of the food chain calls the shots and gets the Omegas.
Echo is claimed, against her will of course, by Berserker Dragnovic. I was anticipating a hard and mysterious alpha, representing his territory of Dark City. I didn't get that, but that wasn't a bad thing. Dragnovic is rough, really rough, around the edges with his deep timbre and idolect. I like him, he starts off wanting an omega for what they represent, but then as the story develops we learn more about him and his motivations. He turns out not to be such a big, bad alpha berserker, but again, this leads away from this being a dark romance to me.
Once Echo and Dragnovic make it to Dark City, the transitions between scenes seem choppy or abrupt. There is a lot of back-and-forth between the characters that seems to be a bit dramatic. Almost, like when there is just too much icing on a cake... Some things that are said and done are contradictory to something else that took place or that was said in a previous scene. I thought Echo coming into her powers could have been built better. It seems at first she needs forced direction to do things, then she doesn't, then she is creating so much but there isn't any indication or inner dialog as to how she is able to do this or how she feels or connects to the source or essence of this power.
Echo and Dragnovic spend a lot of the story dirty, like really grimy from the descriptions, and wounded, and there is mention of them not being in any condition to have any relations, but then they turn around and start 'bumping and grinding' and it doesn't seem "realistic" given the situations that they find themselves in. Another scene takes place where Echo mentions she is not used to being touched, I believe this is in Chapter 30, and this doesn't quite make sense because she and Dragnovic have 'Done the Deed' several times. Like...they spent at least three days in heat on top of other moments in Paradise Hole.
The battle that takes place with like 200+ zombies kind of gets skipped over. One moment Echo is readying and telling them to bring it, and then we jump to the Berserker and him facing the Fates.
The plot drives the story of this book, not so much the romance or the heat between the characters. I think this series has really great potential with its Zombie Alpha army and the reckoning the Omega Fates are bringing to the world of Gatamora. There is the twist of the Omegas having affinities for physical and spiritual elements and the presence of doppelgangers. There is a lot going on, but that's the fun part. I want to see how all of this will continue to come together.
I can't say if this will be at the top of my favorites from Stephens, but, I plan to read the next book, as I am looking forward to seeing how this story continues with two new MCs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2024
This book took me a long time to get through. It was intense and emotional so I had to take frequent breaks, but it was well done. Kinda like how I need to take breaks during R Lee Smith books LOL. Stephens is an awesome author that draws you into the story and pulls zero punches. There were no good people in this book. Everyone was morally gray in a hellscape that doesn’t leave room for innocence. There were a few times I was so pissed at Adam and his hubris that I wasn’t sure I would be on board with them ending up together. He did have an awesome grovel though and Echo made him work for it. Echo was a fascinating character, defying all traditional aspects of being an omega, and forcing others to see her value. She was absolutely an activist for her rights and the rights of other omegas and betas and held back no punches about her feelings with Adam. They had a volatile relationship, characterized by the whole “I love to hate you” vibe, and it absolutely worked for them.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: captivity, kidnapping, violence, gore, body horror, poverty, starvation, dehydration, severe illness and injury, death, murder, gun violence, discussion of child being kidnapped and “consumed”, discussion of torture, dubcon (somnophilia), undead/zombies, hunting (off page), death of animals, side character zombies buried alive, attempted suicide
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: captivity, kidnapping, violence, gore, body horror, poverty, starvation, dehydration, severe illness and injury, death, murder, gun violence, discussion of child being kidnapped and “consumed”, discussion of torture, dubcon (somnophilia), undead/zombies, hunting (off page), death of animals, side character zombies buried alive, attempted suicide
October 30, 2024
Fantasy books always seem to leave me in a state of bewilderment—I’m not sure why, but it happens every time. So, once again, I was lost in all the chaos and intricate details of this book’s plot. The only part that truly stayed with me was the relationship between the characters, which I adored. I loved how she held such resentment, while he, on the other hand, was entirely devoted and willing to lay down his life for her. That kind of dynamic is absolutely my favorite!
April 16, 2024
“You taste like snow,” I tell him, voice cracking. “You taste like sin.”
I listened to the audiobook of this through my library with hoopla. It took me about a month to read it because it was my car read and I don’t really drive often. That said, I adored this book and I can’t wait to read the next one. It was like Omegaverse set in a dystopian-ish world. Echo sort of stole the show for me. I loved all the things that are revealed as the story goes. It is a bit violent toward Omegas, and in the omegaverse I usually read they are so heavily protected it felt sort of odd, but it makes sense in the setting. All in all I enjoyed this and thought the voice actors did a phenomenal job.
I listened to the audiobook of this through my library with hoopla. It took me about a month to read it because it was my car read and I don’t really drive often. That said, I adored this book and I can’t wait to read the next one. It was like Omegaverse set in a dystopian-ish world. Echo sort of stole the show for me. I loved all the things that are revealed as the story goes. It is a bit violent toward Omegas, and in the omegaverse I usually read they are so heavily protected it felt sort of odd, but it makes sense in the setting. All in all I enjoyed this and thought the voice actors did a phenomenal job.
October 17, 2023
This my first time reading a book by this author and it’s a shame I didn’t like this.
Unfortunately I had to dnf this at 64% (the omega ball) bc I was just so bored and over it. I was hopeful that once our characters made it to dark city that the rest of the book would be them in dark city navigating eachother and the zombie-alpha mystery, so when it’s announced that they’re going back to paradise hole to investigate the omega and man in the cave I immediately checked out. Maybe since I’m not much of a fantasy reader the fantasy adventure aspects didn’t really do much for me bc I personally wanted to read more about Adam and Echo’s romance as well as her coming into her omega powers literally anything else than having to go back to the “wasteland” again. I saw a reviewer say this is an erotica but I’m sorry there’s nothing really hot or sexy about the sec in this book. Especially in the first 30% where they are covered in filth, that sex was very gross to me lmao
I also wanted to pull my hair anytime Echo reverted to resisting him, because while it made sense why she wanted literally anything else but to be mated to an alpha/berserker, once they finally bonded (after finally taking a shower) she was still hesistant or would revert back into “no I don’t love him ew I actually hate him” and that really bothered me especially since it still happens 60% into the story.
Unfortunately I had to dnf this at 64% (the omega ball) bc I was just so bored and over it. I was hopeful that once our characters made it to dark city that the rest of the book would be them in dark city navigating eachother and the zombie-alpha mystery, so when it’s announced that they’re going back to paradise hole to investigate the omega and man in the cave I immediately checked out. Maybe since I’m not much of a fantasy reader the fantasy adventure aspects didn’t really do much for me bc I personally wanted to read more about Adam and Echo’s romance as well as her coming into her omega powers literally anything else than having to go back to the “wasteland” again. I saw a reviewer say this is an erotica but I’m sorry there’s nothing really hot or sexy about the sec in this book. Especially in the first 30% where they are covered in filth, that sex was very gross to me lmao
I also wanted to pull my hair anytime Echo reverted to resisting him, because while it made sense why she wanted literally anything else but to be mated to an alpha/berserker, once they finally bonded (after finally taking a shower) she was still hesistant or would revert back into “no I don’t love him ew I actually hate him” and that really bothered me especially since it still happens 60% into the story.
February 13, 2024
I… This was… a book. I couldn’t connect with any of the characters, the MMC’s writing style made him seem very… dumb. I’m sorry, I’m glad others enjoyed this book, but I genuinely did not like it. I have no inclination to continue the series.
September 27, 2023
10/10
An author who already floors me and then she puts out a book like this?!? Where almost every paragraph either squeezes your heart, puts a smile or your face or enthralls your imagination. The romance was so thick, the devotion so deep, the emotions so raw. Writing this good should be illegal because I felt utter devastation at the thought of having to figure out what to read after a story this gripping. It is riveting from start to finish both the romance and the plot. I’m so blown away by how much I loved this book I’m not even sure what to say. If you’ve read any of her other books you know how amazing her writing is. If you’ve read Lord of Population you know how incredible her heroines are. You know how she can take the roughest toughest MMC and somehow simultaneously make him the warmest softest cinnamon roll you’ve ever read. This is all the feelings of that ramped up by at least 100. It why the second she announced her next series was OV I immediately preordered, because while I never could have imagined THIS level of perfection I knew she wouldn’t disappoint. The way the ABO dynamic is set up is different and interesting. The world building is awesome. The way the story unfolds is truly dynamic. Elizabeth has an amazing talent for given me stories I never knew I needed but can’t live without. But don’t let that sweet face fool you this book is filthy smutty dark and dirty!
An author who already floors me and then she puts out a book like this?!? Where almost every paragraph either squeezes your heart, puts a smile or your face or enthralls your imagination. The romance was so thick, the devotion so deep, the emotions so raw. Writing this good should be illegal because I felt utter devastation at the thought of having to figure out what to read after a story this gripping. It is riveting from start to finish both the romance and the plot. I’m so blown away by how much I loved this book I’m not even sure what to say. If you’ve read any of her other books you know how amazing her writing is. If you’ve read Lord of Population you know how incredible her heroines are. You know how she can take the roughest toughest MMC and somehow simultaneously make him the warmest softest cinnamon roll you’ve ever read. This is all the feelings of that ramped up by at least 100. It why the second she announced her next series was OV I immediately preordered, because while I never could have imagined THIS level of perfection I knew she wouldn’t disappoint. The way the ABO dynamic is set up is different and interesting. The world building is awesome. The way the story unfolds is truly dynamic. Elizabeth has an amazing talent for given me stories I never knew I needed but can’t live without. But don’t let that sweet face fool you this book is filthy smutty dark and dirty!
February 1, 2024
DNF
I'm only 31% in and am over this book.
The premises were good but the end result was a boring, repetitive, long ass book. 417 pages isn't too long of a book, but this just dragged on.
Echo was a bit too harsh to Adam/Berserker. Actually, she was a harsh, not really likable character. She was also all over the place. I think her bouts of crying were meant to soften her but just felt out of place and weird.
I'm only 31% in and am over this book.
The premises were good but the end result was a boring, repetitive, long ass book. 417 pages isn't too long of a book, but this just dragged on.
Echo was a bit too harsh to Adam/Berserker. Actually, she was a harsh, not really likable character. She was also all over the place. I think her bouts of crying were meant to soften her but just felt out of place and weird.
March 11, 2024
DNF at 155 pages. I’ve never read any of the alpha/omega stuff but I liked teen wolf (lmao) so willing to give this a try. It started out interesting but once the berserker comes in it just was cringey as shit. I hate the way he talks. And then they start f***ing outta nowhere like ??? I like smut but I like it with plot and this is just a bit too wattpad/ridiculous for me.
January 30, 2025
UPDATE:
For a full podcast discussion and review, listen to the episode here.
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Read for the next episode of the Shit We’ve Read: After Dark podcast. Rating to come after I've discussed and processed with my co-hosts.
For a full podcast discussion and review, listen to the episode here.
-----
Read for the next episode of the Shit We’ve Read: After Dark podcast. Rating to come after I've discussed and processed with my co-hosts.
March 12, 2024
DNF. I have no idea what’s going on and the writing is stilted and weird. In favor of trying to make this story feel action-packed the author has completely abandoned character development and worldbuilding, and not even the crumbs offered seem to make much sense.
February 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this story; I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Trope: enemy's to lovers, found family, betrayal, close proximity,
Enjoyment: 4.5 ⭐
Character development: 4 ⭐
Emotional: 3 ⭐
Sweet: 3 ⭐
Romance: 2 ⭐
Heat\steam: 3 ⭐
Intrigue: 4 ⭐
Action: 4⭐
Violence: 4 ⭐
Story\plot: 4 ⭐
World Building: 4.5⭐
Enjoy!!!
Trope: enemy's to lovers, found family, betrayal, close proximity,
Enjoyment: 4.5 ⭐
Character development: 4 ⭐
Emotional: 3 ⭐
Sweet: 3 ⭐
Romance: 2 ⭐
Heat\steam: 3 ⭐
Intrigue: 4 ⭐
Action: 4⭐
Violence: 4 ⭐
Story\plot: 4 ⭐
World Building: 4.5⭐
Enjoy!!!
Read
October 21, 2023DNF @ 63%
Might come back to it later. Feels like it would be better as an audio read rather than an eyeball read.
Might come back to it later. Feels like it would be better as an audio read rather than an eyeball read.
March 13, 2024
This was like Avatar meets Tarzan meets Game of Thrones
All with unique creatures and fascinating physics of the land.
Like an alternative Earth with beastly and magical creatures that all live in different factions that divide the land up.
Some cities are party type, some are dangerous, some are magical, some are all of the above and more!
Our Dark City Omega is Echo and as soon as the book begins you are thrown straight into a moving scene and plot. As the reader I feel like I was thrown right into the hunger games of this unique world and I had to run to stay in touch with Echo. This made for an all consuming read, the kind you can really get lost in.
To stay running right along with Echo and Adam (her Beseker/Alpha) is to learn the plot, is to learn the law, is to learn the story that unfolds with each interaction and conversation.
I love how much Echo did not like Adam and Adam low key liked that. They're up and down relationship makes the third act (separation) break up also super understandable AND needed.
The steam is oeey gooey, and messy, and hot.
I feel like I learned a lot of the world building, but I am almost positive that once I read book 2 I will continue to learn more about the setting and over all roles of the creatures and their factions.
Elizabeth Stephens never ceases to amaze me with these intricate worlds and creatures. I don't know how it all lives in her head like it does. I am in awe.
Cannot wait for book 2!
All with unique creatures and fascinating physics of the land.
Like an alternative Earth with beastly and magical creatures that all live in different factions that divide the land up.
Some cities are party type, some are dangerous, some are magical, some are all of the above and more!
Our Dark City Omega is Echo and as soon as the book begins you are thrown straight into a moving scene and plot. As the reader I feel like I was thrown right into the hunger games of this unique world and I had to run to stay in touch with Echo. This made for an all consuming read, the kind you can really get lost in.
To stay running right along with Echo and Adam (her Beseker/Alpha) is to learn the plot, is to learn the law, is to learn the story that unfolds with each interaction and conversation.
I love how much Echo did not like Adam and Adam low key liked that. They're up and down relationship makes the third act (separation) break up also super understandable AND needed.
The steam is oeey gooey, and messy, and hot.
I feel like I learned a lot of the world building, but I am almost positive that once I read book 2 I will continue to learn more about the setting and over all roles of the creatures and their factions.
Elizabeth Stephens never ceases to amaze me with these intricate worlds and creatures. I don't know how it all lives in her head like it does. I am in awe.
Cannot wait for book 2!
Read
March 27, 2024I've only read Elizabeth Stephen's sci-fi romances, so I was thrilled to pick up something new from her! I've honestly never read anything like this. The world was unique and I can't wait to see what else she has in store for these characters!
TW: guns, violence, non-con, kidnapping, blood
TW: guns, violence, non-con, kidnapping, blood
September 28, 2023
I haven’t read a book by Elizabeth Stephens in a while, and I forgot how much I love her writing style, epic world-building, and steamy romances. Dark City Omega is a fantastic start to her Beasts of Gatamora series, and the story pulled me in from the very first pages with a harsh world and interesting characters.
The setting has Mad Max vibes. Harsh, desolate, and uncompromising, it is a world of survivors. Echo, a protagonist on the run after ascending to Omega status and being hunted by those who wish to claim her, knows the harsh brutalities of her world. In her world, the only person you can trust is yourself, especially if you’re an Omega. But becoming an Omega means Echo also gains powers, and if I had any kind of special power, I would totally be excited to have Echo’s. The way she makes plants and flowers grow is wonderous, and it’s a striking juxtaposition to this desolate landscape in which she lives.
Echo is a survivor, and even after being claimed by a Berserker, she never stops fighting for herself, her freedom, and her autonomy. And speaking of the Berserker, Adam is everything I love in an Alpha hero. Tough and ruthless when needed, he’s also a big cinnamon roll. I like that the story is told both from his and Echo’s perspectives because they don’t often articulate their feelings well, but with the dual POV’s, you learn what each is thinking and feeling. Adam and Echo are both dynamically developed characters with interesting backstories that totally impact their decisions and the plot. Their pasts show many of the flaws in this caste-based, patriarchal, dystopian setting.
Of course, the highlight of the story for me is the swoon-worthy enemies-to-lovers romance between Echo and Adam. Echo is so against being Adam’s Omega, and she resists him every step of the way. She doesn’t want to be owned or controlled by anyone, as she proves to Adam over and over again. Oh my word, the sexual tension between these two is out of control. There’s this delicious push and pull between them, and every interaction and conversation is laced with chemistry.
Though their relationship starts off violently and very rocky, I like how they slowly begin to accept and care for each other. However, their relationship has so many problems and obstacles, and their road to happiness is super tumultuous. Between other Alphas hunting them, as well as a new, undead threat, traitorous dealings with potential friends and allies, and societal inequities that highlight the cruelty and imbalances in their lives, Echo and Adam face a lot of challenges. I like that Echo not only exposes the racism and cruelty inflicted on the lower castes, but she also demands change. She calls out complicity and becomes a force for change, especially after her powers grow and she becomes more confident.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
The setting has Mad Max vibes. Harsh, desolate, and uncompromising, it is a world of survivors. Echo, a protagonist on the run after ascending to Omega status and being hunted by those who wish to claim her, knows the harsh brutalities of her world. In her world, the only person you can trust is yourself, especially if you’re an Omega. But becoming an Omega means Echo also gains powers, and if I had any kind of special power, I would totally be excited to have Echo’s. The way she makes plants and flowers grow is wonderous, and it’s a striking juxtaposition to this desolate landscape in which she lives.
Echo is a survivor, and even after being claimed by a Berserker, she never stops fighting for herself, her freedom, and her autonomy. And speaking of the Berserker, Adam is everything I love in an Alpha hero. Tough and ruthless when needed, he’s also a big cinnamon roll. I like that the story is told both from his and Echo’s perspectives because they don’t often articulate their feelings well, but with the dual POV’s, you learn what each is thinking and feeling. Adam and Echo are both dynamically developed characters with interesting backstories that totally impact their decisions and the plot. Their pasts show many of the flaws in this caste-based, patriarchal, dystopian setting.
Of course, the highlight of the story for me is the swoon-worthy enemies-to-lovers romance between Echo and Adam. Echo is so against being Adam’s Omega, and she resists him every step of the way. She doesn’t want to be owned or controlled by anyone, as she proves to Adam over and over again. Oh my word, the sexual tension between these two is out of control. There’s this delicious push and pull between them, and every interaction and conversation is laced with chemistry.
Though their relationship starts off violently and very rocky, I like how they slowly begin to accept and care for each other. However, their relationship has so many problems and obstacles, and their road to happiness is super tumultuous. Between other Alphas hunting them, as well as a new, undead threat, traitorous dealings with potential friends and allies, and societal inequities that highlight the cruelty and imbalances in their lives, Echo and Adam face a lot of challenges. I like that Echo not only exposes the racism and cruelty inflicted on the lower castes, but she also demands change. She calls out complicity and becomes a force for change, especially after her powers grow and she becomes more confident.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
October 2, 2023
Do you happen to love ABO dynamics books (and now Berserkers)?
Do you happen to like post apocalyptic worlds?
Do you happen to love strong female leads who think things through and note when things aren't right and get the I-Shall-Investigate bug?
Do you happen to have read Laura Thalassa's The Four Horsemen series?
Do you happen to appreciate more, books that have gorgeous covers that make you automatically think this has to be a black girl on the cover, then you end up being somewhat right, she's mixed, but ALSO most importantly, there are other characters in the story as well who are all not white, white? And none of them is the cliched best friend?
Then read this book.
It happens to be a long book (my standard books these days are 300 pages), but it has plot which justifies the 400+ page count and not plot in terms of filler/unnecessary repetition.
There is a lot going on in the story as this is essentially the start of the series and other couples will jump off from here. So bear that in mind as there are different characters introduced. The cast of characters isn't really that long but the various areas/domains in the world is what I kept reading and forgetting and I hope essentially by the end of the series we shall hopefully have traveled to all the corners of the world.
I loved Echo. I loved her vulnerability in her powers and in the "new world" she was in. She's an Omega and at times she felt the Drop-Down-And-Present urge but I absolutely love that she fought it and when she was with Adam, their sex scenes were hot and also largely private/intimate.
I wanted more backstory of Adam. I both love and hate that their story ends in book one as book two is another set of characters, but I feel it will be a book two that will need more of Echo+Adam not just playing background characters which at times I feel acts as filler in subsequent books in a series.
Noon and Freya. I want their books!
What took me out of the books abit is that they are in a parallel Earth, the different controlled areas have names, the world is apocalyptic but at times I'm like why are they talking about T-shirts, walkie talkies and motorcycles but they live in trash and forage then we have a McMansion? Unless I read and forgot and overall history of the world
For a series debut, loved it. Will definitely be reading future books in this series. I am not such a fan of the stick up his ass book 2 main male character but I hope he grows by the end of the next book.
Do you happen to like post apocalyptic worlds?
Do you happen to love strong female leads who think things through and note when things aren't right and get the I-Shall-Investigate bug?
Do you happen to have read Laura Thalassa's The Four Horsemen series?
Do you happen to appreciate more, books that have gorgeous covers that make you automatically think this has to be a black girl on the cover, then you end up being somewhat right, she's mixed, but ALSO most importantly, there are other characters in the story as well who are all not white, white? And none of them is the cliched best friend?
Then read this book.
It happens to be a long book (my standard books these days are 300 pages), but it has plot which justifies the 400+ page count and not plot in terms of filler/unnecessary repetition.
There is a lot going on in the story as this is essentially the start of the series and other couples will jump off from here. So bear that in mind as there are different characters introduced. The cast of characters isn't really that long but the various areas/domains in the world is what I kept reading and forgetting and I hope essentially by the end of the series we shall hopefully have traveled to all the corners of the world.
I loved Echo. I loved her vulnerability in her powers and in the "new world" she was in. She's an Omega and at times she felt the Drop-Down-And-Present urge but I absolutely love that she fought it and when she was with Adam, their sex scenes were hot and also largely private/intimate.
I wanted more backstory of Adam. I both love and hate that their story ends in book one as book two is another set of characters, but I feel it will be a book two that will need more of Echo+Adam not just playing background characters which at times I feel acts as filler in subsequent books in a series.
Noon and Freya. I want their books!
What took me out of the books abit is that they are in a parallel Earth, the different controlled areas have names, the world is apocalyptic but at times I'm like why are they talking about T-shirts, walkie talkies and motorcycles but they live in trash and forage then we have a McMansion? Unless I read and forgot and overall history of the world
For a series debut, loved it. Will definitely be reading future books in this series. I am not such a fan of the stick up his ass book 2 main male character but I hope he grows by the end of the next book.
March 8, 2024
this book was horrible. it was advertised to me as something to read after finishing bride by ali hazelwood. the recommendation was absolutely wrong. this book had zero good qualities. the writing read like a bad wattpad novel, the characters were incredibly dense, annoying, and unlikable, and the plot was nonexistent until literally halfway into the book. also once the plot came into play it literally didn’t make any sense.
also also, the mmc was literally insane. he assaulted the fmc in the beginning and that was never fully resolved??????? idk he was ick incarnate. he did have an irish/scottish accent so maybe that made him more likable for the fmc?? also his name was adam, which is a fuckass horrible name for a bitch in a dystopian fantasy setting.
this book was terrible. i have read many bad books, but i think this may just be the worst yet. there were no parts of this book where i liked it. unfortunately it read like watching an episode of the kardashians. so much drama and everything kept going wrong. i couldn’t turn away, and when i had the willpower to stop reading, i was already too far in. i had to see it through
please save your time and don’t read this book
also also, the mmc was literally insane. he assaulted the fmc in the beginning and that was never fully resolved??????? idk he was ick incarnate. he did have an irish/scottish accent so maybe that made him more likable for the fmc?? also his name was adam, which is a fuckass horrible name for a bitch in a dystopian fantasy setting.
this book was terrible. i have read many bad books, but i think this may just be the worst yet. there were no parts of this book where i liked it. unfortunately it read like watching an episode of the kardashians. so much drama and everything kept going wrong. i couldn’t turn away, and when i had the willpower to stop reading, i was already too far in. i had to see it through
please save your time and don’t read this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2024
There is too much going on that just doesn't make sense to me. The politics - how and why they are enforced. If everyone starts as a beta, then why are beta's treated so badly? Why is there so much misinformation about how each designation acts and what they need? The drama of it all just didn't gel for me.
Ultimately, it isn't a bad book but I wouldn't call it a stand alone as nothing is really resolved by the end. The ending felt rushed and like it just barely got to HEA and bam! End scene.
Ultimately, it isn't a bad book but I wouldn't call it a stand alone as nothing is really resolved by the end. The ending felt rushed and like it just barely got to HEA and bam! End scene.
December 18, 2023
DNF 49%
*eye roll*
*eye roll*
July 8, 2024
I don't know if I liked how much ??wolf politics?? there was.
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