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The Claiming Games #2
Bonds of Pain
I used to think I could outrun my fate, but I was wrong.
After an unwilling bond has left me trapped in a world I want to escape, my heart burns with a desperate need for revenge. I once believed I could forge my own destiny, but now I'm ensnared by powerful Alphas who desire to dominate me
As I navigate this treacherous terrain filled with desires and dangers, I realize that my past—a painful reminder of my upbringing as an Omega—has come back to haunt me. The king's announcement that any unmated prince must choose an Omega fills me with dread; I know they won’t let me slip away again.
They’ll never forget how I dared to run.
They’ll revel in breaking me, body and soul, and I may have to submit to their whims to gain the protection I so desperately need.
With these devils in pursuit, I'm determined to turn my pain into power—because if they want me, they'll have to face the wrath of the Omega who learned to fight back.
Bonds of Pain is the second book in the Claiming Games trilogy, a Dark RH Omegaverse romance featuring unhinged Alphas and the Omegas who bring them to their knees.
After an unwilling bond has left me trapped in a world I want to escape, my heart burns with a desperate need for revenge. I once believed I could forge my own destiny, but now I'm ensnared by powerful Alphas who desire to dominate me
As I navigate this treacherous terrain filled with desires and dangers, I realize that my past—a painful reminder of my upbringing as an Omega—has come back to haunt me. The king's announcement that any unmated prince must choose an Omega fills me with dread; I know they won’t let me slip away again.
They’ll never forget how I dared to run.
They’ll revel in breaking me, body and soul, and I may have to submit to their whims to gain the protection I so desperately need.
With these devils in pursuit, I'm determined to turn my pain into power—because if they want me, they'll have to face the wrath of the Omega who learned to fight back.
Bonds of Pain is the second book in the Claiming Games trilogy, a Dark RH Omegaverse romance featuring unhinged Alphas and the Omegas who bring them to their knees.
- GenresOmegaverseDark
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 23, 2025
Though it is a fun story, there are so many inconsistencies throughout the plot. In book 1 Maya’s scent is cherries and champagne in book 2 it’s now strawberries and champagne. It is explained that Omegas can’t get drunk. And yet a major plot moment occurs under the guise of getting all of Pack Logan (including Cillian) drunk. Maya’s past with the Inquistitor is left unclear - there’s a mention that she originally went to him willingly but then it seems like she was captured. Cillian’s origin story is changed dramatically from book 1. He somehow managed to not present in any public way as an Omega and got on heat suppressants immediately. Maya’s presentation makes it seem like it’s a sudden hormonal very visible event.
But the biggest inconsistency is in Maya’s character. She’s terrified of the Inquisitor one minute then mouthing off to him the next. She clocks that he’s doing something very suspicious in the Harem but doesn’t alert any authority figure? She ends up doing such vile things in the name of her revenge. the same scene near the end she knows she won’t do a certain thing because it goes against her understanding of her self and by the end of the chapter she does it.
But the biggest inconsistency is in Maya’s character. She’s terrified of the Inquisitor one minute then mouthing off to him the next. She clocks that he’s doing something very suspicious in the Harem but doesn’t alert any authority figure? She ends up doing such vile things in the name of her revenge. the same scene near the end she knows she won’t do a certain thing because it goes against her understanding of her self and by the end of the chapter she does it.
November 9, 2025
As much as the first book really hit home for me, with this one there just wasn’t any chemistry between me and the story. I don’t understand what drives the main character anymore. I get why she chose this path (from book one), but now her goal feels contradictory. I just couldn’t follow her reasoning. Because of that, I found myself reading on in a slightly cringey way — and not in a good way.
Still, the book gets 3 stars from me. It’s not badly written. There’s some nice push and pull between the main characters, tension from outside factors, and the male love interests come across as more likeable.
There are probably plenty of readers this book will click with — I’m just not one of them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Still, the book gets 3 stars from me. It’s not badly written. There’s some nice push and pull between the main characters, tension from outside factors, and the male love interests come across as more likeable.
There are probably plenty of readers this book will click with — I’m just not one of them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
I really wanted to like this book but it just didnt click with me.
I really disliked Logan 95% of the book as well as Maya.
I understood she didnt get the chance to choose what and who she wanted to be with and that should be between her and Logan. No one should set up others to be abused by their abusers, and then claim they deserved it because if she didn't have a choice why should they?
The only ones I liked were Poe, Cillian and Ares, yes they were mean to her at the start on Logans orders but I felt they redeemed them selves in this book.
The story finally start to move with pace at 5% left to the book.
I don't know whether I would willing to pick up the next book or not.
I really disliked Logan 95% of the book as well as Maya.
I understood she didnt get the chance to choose what and who she wanted to be with and that should be between her and Logan. No one should set up others to be abused by their abusers, and then claim they deserved it because if she didn't have a choice why should they?
The only ones I liked were Poe, Cillian and Ares, yes they were mean to her at the start on Logans orders but I felt they redeemed them selves in this book.
The story finally start to move with pace at 5% left to the book.
I don't know whether I would willing to pick up the next book or not.
October 19, 2025
Star Rating:
⭐⭐: The plot was decent and pulled me in like the first book. But there were a lot of errors and inconsistencies. There was some great descriptive writing that was overshadowed by lazy writing/editing.
Introduction:
This is my book review of Bonds of Pain by Nola Heart. This is the second book that I have read by Heart and it was the first book in the series, Bonds of Hate. These are my opinions of this arc copy.
Summary:
Here, we picked back up where we left off with Maya and Cillian going into an unexpected heat and Logan did his duty of “taking care” of them both. Then he did the unthinkable: he commanded Cillian to bite her so that they could all be connected. His two Omegas. This is said to be impossible, but it worked.
This time we get a little bit more excitement as the Alpha games come into play. Logan is training for this fight so that he can properly be named heir to the crown; then we see more palace politics and a different side of the crown that breaks up the darkness and corruption that we’ve gotten in the story thus far.
Maya is still murderous and now she’s coming at them for revenge. She orchestrates three revenge plots against Poe, Ares, and Logan. Cillian didn’t get her wrath, it may have been because their bond was too palpable. I don’t know. The revenge that she gets on three of the Alphas is misplaced at best and very messed up. If anyone deserves to be hurt, it is Logan.
While Maya sets on breaking up the pack and their connection, Dr. Sionis Thane continues his “job” as Inquisitor to solve Ander’s death (Logan’s brother). The plot thickens as Thane and the king’s plans come to light and this also gives Maya more information into her birth and upbringing.
Character Analysis:
Maya: She is an Omega. Strong-willed, feisty, at war with her own emotions and biology. Her scent changes from cherries & champagne to strawberries and champagne.
Cillian: Omega (we thought he was a Beta in the first book). He’s conflicted with his position in court and his relationship with Logan is very confusing. It’s very taboo in this universe for Alphas to have intimate relationships with men; but even more taboo for men to be Omegas with relationships with Alphas. Cillian is Logan’s second in command and advisor. His scent is lilacs and baby powder.
Ares: I don’t think we get enough of him in this story. He’s described as the picture-perfect by definition Alpha. Goes by his biology, very by the book on what his role is as an Alpha. He’s Logan’s security. He has shown Maya who he was before he came to the palace and he introduced her to self-defense techniques. He’s the only one that took her beyond the palace walls. His scent is bourbon and notes of bacon.
Poe: He’s the palace assassin. He lives in the shadows. Underneath all that darkness and past abuse, he has a soft side and shows Maya this along with his deepest secrets. He too shows her self-defense tactics while using weapons. His scent is the ocean.
Logan: He is aggressive, selfish, and contains his plans in his head. He is well versed in his station as prince and comes across as competent. He smells like clove.
Conflict:
Dr. Thane is a very big conflict and becomes even bigger by the end of the book. The welfare of Omegas. The king’s plots and moving pieces while he uses people. Maya’s treatment of the pack and how they treat her.
Spice Level:
🌶️🌶️🌶️: Tension, kissing and open door sex scenes, but they are very short. Slow burn. Absolutely no romance. Every time the guys showed Maya a softer side or something that made them human, she refused to let it penetrate her revenge plot.
Conclusion:
The Bonds of Pain by Nola Heart is a disappointing read. There are inconsistencies, lack of continuity and grammatical/punctuation errors. The plot is the story’s saving grace, but the characters seemed to miss the plot. For example, there’s a few scenes where Maya decides to take Blush (the first time, I’ll give her a pass) but the second time it affects her in the way it did the first - she feels sensual. I told myself that I would give this less stars if Maya wakes up the next morning and blames the Alpha she had that intimacy with when it was her decision that she made with a sound mind. Of course she blamed them. 2 stars. I thought that 3 stars was generous already.
Warning to the Readers:
Violence | grape | aggression | blood/gore | childhood trauma
Recommendation:
I kept reading because I wanted to know how we were going to get to the end which left off on a cliffhanger. I think that this book would be better if it was shorter and gave us more action earlier in the book while answering some questions that came up because of lack of continuity. Unfortunately, I feel invested in this series, but I don’t recommend that you read this.
⭐⭐: The plot was decent and pulled me in like the first book. But there were a lot of errors and inconsistencies. There was some great descriptive writing that was overshadowed by lazy writing/editing.
Introduction:
This is my book review of Bonds of Pain by Nola Heart. This is the second book that I have read by Heart and it was the first book in the series, Bonds of Hate. These are my opinions of this arc copy.
Summary:
Here, we picked back up where we left off with Maya and Cillian going into an unexpected heat and Logan did his duty of “taking care” of them both. Then he did the unthinkable: he commanded Cillian to bite her so that they could all be connected. His two Omegas. This is said to be impossible, but it worked.
This time we get a little bit more excitement as the Alpha games come into play. Logan is training for this fight so that he can properly be named heir to the crown; then we see more palace politics and a different side of the crown that breaks up the darkness and corruption that we’ve gotten in the story thus far.
Maya is still murderous and now she’s coming at them for revenge. She orchestrates three revenge plots against Poe, Ares, and Logan. Cillian didn’t get her wrath, it may have been because their bond was too palpable. I don’t know. The revenge that she gets on three of the Alphas is misplaced at best and very messed up. If anyone deserves to be hurt, it is Logan.
While Maya sets on breaking up the pack and their connection, Dr. Sionis Thane continues his “job” as Inquisitor to solve Ander’s death (Logan’s brother). The plot thickens as Thane and the king’s plans come to light and this also gives Maya more information into her birth and upbringing.
Character Analysis:
Maya: She is an Omega. Strong-willed, feisty, at war with her own emotions and biology. Her scent changes from cherries & champagne to strawberries and champagne.
Cillian: Omega (we thought he was a Beta in the first book). He’s conflicted with his position in court and his relationship with Logan is very confusing. It’s very taboo in this universe for Alphas to have intimate relationships with men; but even more taboo for men to be Omegas with relationships with Alphas. Cillian is Logan’s second in command and advisor. His scent is lilacs and baby powder.
Ares: I don’t think we get enough of him in this story. He’s described as the picture-perfect by definition Alpha. Goes by his biology, very by the book on what his role is as an Alpha. He’s Logan’s security. He has shown Maya who he was before he came to the palace and he introduced her to self-defense techniques. He’s the only one that took her beyond the palace walls. His scent is bourbon and notes of bacon.
Poe: He’s the palace assassin. He lives in the shadows. Underneath all that darkness and past abuse, he has a soft side and shows Maya this along with his deepest secrets. He too shows her self-defense tactics while using weapons. His scent is the ocean.
Logan: He is aggressive, selfish, and contains his plans in his head. He is well versed in his station as prince and comes across as competent. He smells like clove.
Conflict:
Dr. Thane is a very big conflict and becomes even bigger by the end of the book. The welfare of Omegas. The king’s plots and moving pieces while he uses people. Maya’s treatment of the pack and how they treat her.
Spice Level:
🌶️🌶️🌶️: Tension, kissing and open door sex scenes, but they are very short. Slow burn. Absolutely no romance. Every time the guys showed Maya a softer side or something that made them human, she refused to let it penetrate her revenge plot.
Conclusion:
The Bonds of Pain by Nola Heart is a disappointing read. There are inconsistencies, lack of continuity and grammatical/punctuation errors. The plot is the story’s saving grace, but the characters seemed to miss the plot. For example, there’s a few scenes where Maya decides to take Blush (the first time, I’ll give her a pass) but the second time it affects her in the way it did the first - she feels sensual. I told myself that I would give this less stars if Maya wakes up the next morning and blames the Alpha she had that intimacy with when it was her decision that she made with a sound mind. Of course she blamed them. 2 stars. I thought that 3 stars was generous already.
Warning to the Readers:
Violence | grape | aggression | blood/gore | childhood trauma
Recommendation:
I kept reading because I wanted to know how we were going to get to the end which left off on a cliffhanger. I think that this book would be better if it was shorter and gave us more action earlier in the book while answering some questions that came up because of lack of continuity. Unfortunately, I feel invested in this series, but I don’t recommend that you read this.
January 9, 2026
4 Stars for the story, 2 for editing
The story itself gets 4 stars. I do love the characters. There were a few surprises I was not expecting at all after reading the first book. I do love that Maya does her best to wield her designation as a weapon instead of being the typical omega. Poe and Cillian unfold to be surprisingly deep and likeable characters throughout this story. Still not sure if I love or hate Logan, but I think that's the mark of a well crafted character. He's a bully, and deeply damaged, but has his moments. It's a pack full of "a product of their environment" people just trying to figure things out for and with each other.
Same goes for Thane - well written, but I know I definitely hate that guy.
However, the rating gets pulled down for the editing. I only mention this if I catch more than 5 instances, and I hit 5 in chapter 6. There are missing words & punctuation - there's several sentences with no period at the end, or a period where there should be a question mark, etc. Spelling issues, such as "lick of fie curling up my spine". Incomplete sentences and/or confusing sentence structure. One example, shortened to take out a potential spoiler "The last thing I want is (.....), but the thought of keeping Logan from having something he wants." But...what? What does the thought of denying Logan something do? There's also a weird perspective shift at the end of chapter 11 where the speaker changes from Logan to Maya and back. Plot inconsistencies - such as the whole heir thing (page 104 and page 147). It became frustrating to read.
It's a testament to the strength of the actual plot itself that I still read through this. The story is absolutely interesting to me, and I truly enjoyed it despite the lapse in editing/proofreading. The spice is very hot when it appears, but it isn't the main focus of the book - there is indeed a good story here. The darkness is there, in a sneaky way. It seems like a walk in the park, and then something depraved/twisted sneaks up on you when you least expect it. I was not expecting the post ceremony bit at all! I do very much enjoy the story and will absolutely finish the series.
The story itself gets 4 stars. I do love the characters. There were a few surprises I was not expecting at all after reading the first book. I do love that Maya does her best to wield her designation as a weapon instead of being the typical omega. Poe and Cillian unfold to be surprisingly deep and likeable characters throughout this story. Still not sure if I love or hate Logan, but I think that's the mark of a well crafted character. He's a bully, and deeply damaged, but has his moments. It's a pack full of "a product of their environment" people just trying to figure things out for and with each other.
Same goes for Thane - well written, but I know I definitely hate that guy.
However, the rating gets pulled down for the editing. I only mention this if I catch more than 5 instances, and I hit 5 in chapter 6. There are missing words & punctuation - there's several sentences with no period at the end, or a period where there should be a question mark, etc. Spelling issues, such as "lick of fie curling up my spine". Incomplete sentences and/or confusing sentence structure. One example, shortened to take out a potential spoiler "The last thing I want is (.....), but the thought of keeping Logan from having something he wants." But...what? What does the thought of denying Logan something do? There's also a weird perspective shift at the end of chapter 11 where the speaker changes from Logan to Maya and back. Plot inconsistencies - such as the whole heir thing (page 104 and page 147). It became frustrating to read.
It's a testament to the strength of the actual plot itself that I still read through this. The story is absolutely interesting to me, and I truly enjoyed it despite the lapse in editing/proofreading. The spice is very hot when it appears, but it isn't the main focus of the book - there is indeed a good story here. The darkness is there, in a sneaky way. It seems like a walk in the park, and then something depraved/twisted sneaks up on you when you least expect it. I was not expecting the post ceremony bit at all! I do very much enjoy the story and will absolutely finish the series.
September 20, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are entirely my own.
After the way the first book ended, I had been counting down the months until this release. To my surprise, it turned out to be much MUCH darker than BOH. Maya really hits rock bottom mentally, especially because of Logan and Cillian.
Logan, in particular, was infuriating. I hated him with a passion throughout the book (which was totally the point and completely intentional by the author). He was absolutely despicable, and I honestly could not see how he could ever redeem himself in my eyes, until the author does try to explore why he is the way he is (though that’s still inexcusable!!!). So I’m curious to see how his arc develops more in the third book.
Cillian, however, might actually be the one I dislike the most. He comes across as spineless and pathetic, carrying out horrible things against Maya as Logan’s proxy. I just couldn’t stomach him. And truthfully, I never felt a real connection between him and Maya. The only link they seemed to share was being caught in a “similar” situation with Logan, which wasn’t enough for me to buy into him as a convincing romantic interest.
Poe and Ares, though, completely shifted the tone whenever they were on the page. Especially with Poe, I loved that we got to see cracks in his armor. Those moments of vulnerability where his gentleness slipped through. It made him feel real, layered, and honestly, one of the easiest to connect with. Together, they brought a balance into a story that could have otherwise felt overwhelmingly toxic.
Plot wise, I found the development very satisfying, especially with the backdrop of omegas being used (which is a super common theme but it came with a bit of a twist here). The angst was absolutely my favorite part and I’m very eager to see what happens when the four finally learn Maya’s true history.
That said, dear author please deliver plenty of groveling in the next book! I truly hope Maya doesn’t let them off easy. I can’t wait for the actual romance to finally begin!
After the way the first book ended, I had been counting down the months until this release. To my surprise, it turned out to be much MUCH darker than BOH. Maya really hits rock bottom mentally, especially because of Logan and Cillian.
Logan, in particular, was infuriating. I hated him with a passion throughout the book (which was totally the point and completely intentional by the author). He was absolutely despicable, and I honestly could not see how he could ever redeem himself in my eyes, until the author does try to explore why he is the way he is (though that’s still inexcusable!!!). So I’m curious to see how his arc develops more in the third book.
Cillian, however, might actually be the one I dislike the most. He comes across as spineless and pathetic, carrying out horrible things against Maya as Logan’s proxy. I just couldn’t stomach him. And truthfully, I never felt a real connection between him and Maya. The only link they seemed to share was being caught in a “similar” situation with Logan, which wasn’t enough for me to buy into him as a convincing romantic interest.
Poe and Ares, though, completely shifted the tone whenever they were on the page. Especially with Poe, I loved that we got to see cracks in his armor. Those moments of vulnerability where his gentleness slipped through. It made him feel real, layered, and honestly, one of the easiest to connect with. Together, they brought a balance into a story that could have otherwise felt overwhelmingly toxic.
Plot wise, I found the development very satisfying, especially with the backdrop of omegas being used (which is a super common theme but it came with a bit of a twist here). The angst was absolutely my favorite part and I’m very eager to see what happens when the four finally learn Maya’s true history.
That said, dear author please deliver plenty of groveling in the next book! I truly hope Maya doesn’t let them off easy. I can’t wait for the actual romance to finally begin!
September 25, 2025
WOW! Simply amazing! This book had so many twists and turns that I don't know where to begin. If you're looking for a dark omegaverse story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this read is for you. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Let's start with the phenomenal world building! I seriously need more royal omegaverse books now. Really great books can make your loyalties shift and create love hate relationships with the main characters, that's what this second book did to me. Maya becomes just as much of a monster as the ones surrounding her and I honestly felt sorry for Cillian, Ares and Poe in this one. I even understand Logan better and what makes him tick. They're all clearly in love with Maya and aside from Logan, they try to really change for the better but Maya isn't ready for forgive. Maya truly lost herself and spends the whole book hurting the pack and herself in the process all in the name of revenge. Even Logan loves her in his own toxic way and it's obvious that she's fallen in love with them too. This book was passionate, treading that thin line between love and hate. With tons of heat 🥵 action and lots of twisted drama. It's the darkest omegaverse book I've ever read and I love that it wasn't afraid to push the moral limits. I can't wait to read the next book to see how this all ends now that so much has changed. What an incredible read! 💜
September 18, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens for providing me with a Binds of Pain by Nola Heart. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
4 Stars!!! - What a ride!! That ending ??
This book was so much better than book one and don’t get me wrong book 1 set the stage for everything but the there were couple key points missing from the book. But this book picks up right where book one left off although I had to go back in with the last 30 pages of the one to refresh my memory. It kicks off right after that twisted scene from book one and thrust straight into the thick of it trying to piece together what our FMC is going to do. We got to see a lot more into the background of the other male characters understand some of their motivations and why they do the things they do, it was a whole Lotta spice 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ and we get to see how truly monstrous the king is. All in all despite the few typographical errors and somewhat logical flaws I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am feening for book 3.
Cillian and Poe have my heart really. Maya made a lot of decisions in this book that had me looking at her kind of side ways. A lot of morally gray, and big decisions which is kind of understandable, but also feels like she may be losing herself in her thirst for vengeance.
4 Stars!!! - What a ride!! That ending ??
This book was so much better than book one and don’t get me wrong book 1 set the stage for everything but the there were couple key points missing from the book. But this book picks up right where book one left off although I had to go back in with the last 30 pages of the one to refresh my memory. It kicks off right after that twisted scene from book one and thrust straight into the thick of it trying to piece together what our FMC is going to do. We got to see a lot more into the background of the other male characters understand some of their motivations and why they do the things they do, it was a whole Lotta spice 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ and we get to see how truly monstrous the king is. All in all despite the few typographical errors and somewhat logical flaws I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am feening for book 3.
Cillian and Poe have my heart really. Maya made a lot of decisions in this book that had me looking at her kind of side ways. A lot of morally gray, and big decisions which is kind of understandable, but also feels like she may be losing herself in her thirst for vengeance.
September 29, 2025
✨️ Thank you so much Book Sirens for providing an ARC of this book.
✨️ This is an honest review of the book.
I was really looking forward to reading the second part of this series and now I'll be looking forward to the third and final part (which unfortunately won't come until next year, if the expected publication date is true 🥹).
Nola Heart did an incredible job on this book, just like the first one, and although I think the pacing could be a little faster (which is probably just my anxious heart wanting to see them as a pack soon), I understand that it was important for the worldbuilding.
I like that, in addition to building romance, Nola took care to create a backstory for the story, which I feel is always lacking in HR books. I was super entertained by both the interactions between the characters and everything that was happening in the universe. I wasn't expecting the plot twists at the end and was actually surprised by them.
The characters are surprisingly charismatic, engaging, and interesting (even Logan!). I appreciate that the FMC is strong, bold, and intelligent... She's an incredible and vital part of the book (as she should be).
I can't wait for the series to conclude, although I already feel my heart sink at the thought of it happening.
✨️ This is an honest review of the book.
I was really looking forward to reading the second part of this series and now I'll be looking forward to the third and final part (which unfortunately won't come until next year, if the expected publication date is true 🥹).
Nola Heart did an incredible job on this book, just like the first one, and although I think the pacing could be a little faster (which is probably just my anxious heart wanting to see them as a pack soon), I understand that it was important for the worldbuilding.
I like that, in addition to building romance, Nola took care to create a backstory for the story, which I feel is always lacking in HR books. I was super entertained by both the interactions between the characters and everything that was happening in the universe. I wasn't expecting the plot twists at the end and was actually surprised by them.
The characters are surprisingly charismatic, engaging, and interesting (even Logan!). I appreciate that the FMC is strong, bold, and intelligent... She's an incredible and vital part of the book (as she should be).
I can't wait for the series to conclude, although I already feel my heart sink at the thought of it happening.
September 30, 2025
I enjoyed getting to know more details about the characters and their whys for the things they do and have done. I also like seeing the changes that slowly are happening amongst the pack members. The guys aren't quite redeemable just yet though especially Logan but I'm interested to see where the next book is going to take us with that especially with everything that has been laid out before them. I'm eager to read the next book and appreciate having read this as an ARC. I don't common take typos and such into consideration and am mentioning it only due to the first book having plenty of them and needing editing but this one as an ARC does seem to be improved in that area, not entirely but it's better.
The story was able to keep me engaged with it and wanting to know more about the characters and what they were doing and their wants. I definitely like that this one had a lot more character progression in my eyes now that everything has been set and we see everything going into motion. Especially at the hands of the Omega Maya who's not willing to submit especially after being forcibly bonded. She is learning all their secrets, and bending these things into a weapon. She's definitely not your typical Omega and I love it for the world they are in. She is exactly what they need.
The story was able to keep me engaged with it and wanting to know more about the characters and what they were doing and their wants. I definitely like that this one had a lot more character progression in my eyes now that everything has been set and we see everything going into motion. Especially at the hands of the Omega Maya who's not willing to submit especially after being forcibly bonded. She is learning all their secrets, and bending these things into a weapon. She's definitely not your typical Omega and I love it for the world they are in. She is exactly what they need.
May 3, 2026
The behavior of the FMC by the 50% mark of this book becomes utterly reprehensible..I cannot stress enough that I will never,ever read another book by this author after she made the female main character of her book a remorseless r@pist, and predator.
Setting up a victim, (one who was vulnerable with,& bravely confided in her,at that!) to be further victimized by his former r@pists.. I was absolutely stunned.
Then to video herself drugging and assaulting her mate,all because she’s mad and going on a revenge tour..I have no words,or feelings of sympathy towards her at all.
This was so poorly handled and there’s no coming back from it.
I have to get something else off my chest:
Three of the MMC’s in this book are loving,and solicitous towards her feelings and comfort, and she treats them like unworthy garbage.
Keep in mind that between books 1-2 we have had 900+ pages to get to the freaking point of this story. Wrap. It. Up.
Instead of actual plot,the author instead decides to introduce a personality transplant,that turns the FMC into a predator.
I am so disgusted.
Setting up a victim, (one who was vulnerable with,& bravely confided in her,at that!) to be further victimized by his former r@pists.. I was absolutely stunned.
Then to video herself drugging and assaulting her mate,all because she’s mad and going on a revenge tour..I have no words,or feelings of sympathy towards her at all.
This was so poorly handled and there’s no coming back from it.
I have to get something else off my chest:
Three of the MMC’s in this book are loving,and solicitous towards her feelings and comfort, and she treats them like unworthy garbage.
Keep in mind that between books 1-2 we have had 900+ pages to get to the freaking point of this story. Wrap. It. Up.
Instead of actual plot,the author instead decides to introduce a personality transplant,that turns the FMC into a predator.
I am so disgusted.
September 28, 2025
Why are all her Fated Mates commitment phobist?
This book is full of stubborn omegas, damaged alphas, a cult that traffics omegas and high heats. Sabine (a.k.a. Bea) and her adopted sister are both leery of Alphas. Each for their own reasoning. Omen has a traumatic past that have left her helpless and hopeless when it comes to alphas. Sabine doesn’t need or want one, well except during her heat. Both omegas get a job in the music industry, Sabine managing a band and Omen as the band photographer. Sabine and a security firm are trying to protect Omen from her cultist father. Fated mates abound for Sabine but most of them don’t want a fated mate. Omen is wronged by her fated band pack. Noone belong wants to be a pack. This is a good read. There are some triggers so you might want to check them out before purchasing the book.
This book is full of stubborn omegas, damaged alphas, a cult that traffics omegas and high heats. Sabine (a.k.a. Bea) and her adopted sister are both leery of Alphas. Each for their own reasoning. Omen has a traumatic past that have left her helpless and hopeless when it comes to alphas. Sabine doesn’t need or want one, well except during her heat. Both omegas get a job in the music industry, Sabine managing a band and Omen as the band photographer. Sabine and a security firm are trying to protect Omen from her cultist father. Fated mates abound for Sabine but most of them don’t want a fated mate. Omen is wronged by her fated band pack. Noone belong wants to be a pack. This is a good read. There are some triggers so you might want to check them out before purchasing the book.
November 12, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive an Advance Reader Copy of this novel, and let me tell you—it is an absolute triumph. From the first page, I was completely swept away by the vivid world-building and the incredibly nuanced characters. The author has crafted a story that is both deeply moving and breathtakingly suspenseful.
The pacing is phenomenal; every chapter ends with a hook that makes it impossible to put down. I devoured this book in a single sitting, and the journey was richly rewarding. The emotional stakes felt incredibly high, and I found myself rooting intensely for the protagonist as they navigated impossible choices.
What truly elevates this book is the writing itself. The prose is lush, immersive, and strikes a perfect balance between intricate detail and propulsive action. This isn't just a book you read; it's a world you inhabit.
The pacing is phenomenal; every chapter ends with a hook that makes it impossible to put down. I devoured this book in a single sitting, and the journey was richly rewarding. The emotional stakes felt incredibly high, and I found myself rooting intensely for the protagonist as they navigated impossible choices.
What truly elevates this book is the writing itself. The prose is lush, immersive, and strikes a perfect balance between intricate detail and propulsive action. This isn't just a book you read; it's a world you inhabit.
September 25, 2025
OH MY GOODNESS! Nola just keeps making this series better and better! I LOVED the first book but book two was even better!
These characters are so complex. When I think I have them figured out something else happens and I am like taken by surprise.
Maya, Logan, Cillian, Ares and Poe are such amazing and interesting characters. Alone they are a force but together they are unstoppable.
This book does end on a cliff hanger and I can’t wait for book three!
This series was my first introduction to Omegaverse Books and I am hooked!
Please read this book! You won’t be disappointed!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
These characters are so complex. When I think I have them figured out something else happens and I am like taken by surprise.
Maya, Logan, Cillian, Ares and Poe are such amazing and interesting characters. Alone they are a force but together they are unstoppable.
This book does end on a cliff hanger and I can’t wait for book three!
This series was my first introduction to Omegaverse Books and I am hooked!
Please read this book! You won’t be disappointed!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2025
What a great follow up to Bonds of Hate, book 1. Adding on to the already tense story, the politics, intrigue, internal strife, pack dynamics. Bonds of Hate is not what I expected, in the best ways.
While you may think you know what's going to happen, and it may happen, you really don't know how Maya will get there. I cannot wait for Book 3 in this omegaverse - plenty of heat, great character and story development throughout both books. The Claiming Games really fills so many omegaverse voids you might be feeling. So give it a try.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While you may think you know what's going to happen, and it may happen, you really don't know how Maya will get there. I cannot wait for Book 3 in this omegaverse - plenty of heat, great character and story development throughout both books. The Claiming Games really fills so many omegaverse voids you might be feeling. So give it a try.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2025
This is another amazing read; dear Lord, it’s so good!
Throughout this book and the previous one, I wondered if Maya could withstand the challenges posed by Logan, the doctor, and what Cillian and Logan did to her. She far exceeded my expectations of what she could endure and still come out fighting.
I still despise Logan, but seeing another side of Poe and Ares was bittersweet. I'm uncertain if they will continue to show redemption, but I remain hopeful.
My feelings towards Cillian swung wildly from disgust to understanding. He’s a complex character, and I hope to see growth from him.
That ending was incredible, and now I’m desperate for the next book!
Throughout this book and the previous one, I wondered if Maya could withstand the challenges posed by Logan, the doctor, and what Cillian and Logan did to her. She far exceeded my expectations of what she could endure and still come out fighting.
I still despise Logan, but seeing another side of Poe and Ares was bittersweet. I'm uncertain if they will continue to show redemption, but I remain hopeful.
My feelings towards Cillian swung wildly from disgust to understanding. He’s a complex character, and I hope to see growth from him.
That ending was incredible, and now I’m desperate for the next book!
January 13, 2026
I despise the whole bonding with someone other than your real scent mate bullshit that happened in book one so I was actually much happier in this book when Logan forces a twisted version of that bond onto the FMC. I genuinely do not believe he loves Cillian (nor should he imo as it’s not his scent mate) nor does Cillian love Logan - they only bonded by force and it’s made perfectly clear in this book. I only hope the author lets Cillian go on to find his actual love interest while repairing his friendship with Logan and not forcing them to rebuild their bond when it’s just the most ridiculous part of this series
September 23, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am loving the overall storyline and where I feel like the author is headed with the world they have built. Please make sure you check your trigger warnings. There are definitely some themes that made me uncomfortable. This installment is mildly darker than the previous one. There are times where I was legit yelling at the MCs, every single one. No one was exempt, although I did develop a softer spot for Ares and Poe this time around.
September 28, 2025
Amazing!! There were a lot of times in this book that I was really mad at Maya though. I also don’t remember from the first book if it was mentioned what a great military strategist Logan is. For some reason I had the impression that he was just a snobby F boy. But in this book I got a better picture of why he acted like he did. I love Ares and Poe. And Cillian totally has my heart.
Towards the end I got really nervous that we’d be left on a horrible cliffhanger and I was really happy that wasn’t the case.
I’m really looking forward to the next book!
Towards the end I got really nervous that we’d be left on a horrible cliffhanger and I was really happy that wasn’t the case.
I’m really looking forward to the next book!
June 17, 2026
Oh how the tides change. I absolutely loved the first book and I definitely hated this one. I was hoping for a fierce Maya, a revengeful Maya but instead of that I got a whiny, manipulative and stupid Maya. Seriously the whole book she was whining about everything. And the most revengeful plot she could come up with was to send a sexual victim to his abusers. Really...I hated her after that. I disliked all her pack members. I'm going to read the last book to finish the series and hopefully it will bring a better conclusion.
September 22, 2025
This is a continuation of book 1. If you've had the pleasure of reading that, this picks up from there. I really wanted to stop reading after Maya couldn't Logan to understand the error of his ways. And the way Maya started manipulating Logan, Poe, Cillian, and Ares was a bit harsh. And just when they start acting like a pack again the evil Doctor and King crushed their dreams. I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2025
This is book 2 in the trilogy and is a bit darker than the first. Please read the trigger warning. Despite a few inconsistencies from the first book, I really like this evolving story. I don't like Logan, at all. I hope that his redemption in book 3 is a good one. I liked Maya in the first book. In this one, she is a bit meaner than she was before. There are some twists you don't expect in the story along with another stress-inducing cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book.
September 30, 2025
Thrilling 2nd book in trilogy. The characters were so very fascinating and compelling. The world building continues to excel and impress. Plot was what drove the story and it was thrilling, dark, gritty and action packed. Can't waiting for the final installment in the trilogy. Recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
What a crazy book. This is a mind blowing book. I am going to be honest, at one point I hated every main character. There is some intense storylines in this book. The dynamics are one thing but the twists just kept coming. I was jaw dropping through so much. I was yelling at my Kindle! That is so the mark of a great book when you start arguing with the characters. Please check this book and series out.
January 24, 2026
Good
Maya, Logan, Ares, Poe & Cillian.
First 30% is a bit rough with tge way the guys treated her AND their inner monologuevon women in general. Part of it is expected since they live in court & court politics with back stabbing betas & omegas. 1 guy has a real reason to distrust omegas too.
If you can get past the first 35% or so they (the men) do get better - except Logan. He's a jerk. I expected him to be much worse? But he didnt.
Ares & Poe so far are my faves.
Maya, Logan, Ares, Poe & Cillian.
First 30% is a bit rough with tge way the guys treated her AND their inner monologuevon women in general. Part of it is expected since they live in court & court politics with back stabbing betas & omegas. 1 guy has a real reason to distrust omegas too.
If you can get past the first 35% or so they (the men) do get better - except Logan. He's a jerk. I expected him to be much worse? But he didnt.
Ares & Poe so far are my faves.
March 11, 2026
Not as good as the first
I enjoyed the first book immensely. This one was rougher around the edges. It needed editing, there were continuity errors, the same thoughts ate repeated over and over on the same page by the same character.
What really affected my enjoyment was when the FMC sets up one of the guys to get SA'd by the same female predators that did it to him before. It was unforgivable imo and I hated her from that point.
I enjoyed the first book immensely. This one was rougher around the edges. It needed editing, there were continuity errors, the same thoughts ate repeated over and over on the same page by the same character.
What really affected my enjoyment was when the FMC sets up one of the guys to get SA'd by the same female predators that did it to him before. It was unforgivable imo and I hated her from that point.
June 17, 2026
There is a third book !!??? I am so happy. As soon as the book was coming to an end i started the next one. Just WOW. It still has all my attention. I cant wait to see what else is going to happen.
I love how strong Maya is! Not a stupid omega and can actually use her brain. I feel sad about the dynamic between Cillian hopefully they end up supporting and loving each other. The prince can suck a fat one.
I love how strong Maya is! Not a stupid omega and can actually use her brain. I feel sad about the dynamic between Cillian hopefully they end up supporting and loving each other. The prince can suck a fat one.
October 1, 2025
Need the next!
This series is different than any others, its got a Regency/dystopian vibe to it. After the last one ended, I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about ANY of the guys, but by the end, I feel like I might be on board with them. I loved reading Maya's story and I now I need the next one because after the ending of Bonds of Pain, I need to know what comes next!
This series is different than any others, its got a Regency/dystopian vibe to it. After the last one ended, I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about ANY of the guys, but by the end, I feel like I might be on board with them. I loved reading Maya's story and I now I need the next one because after the ending of Bonds of Pain, I need to know what comes next!
October 8, 2025
This book has serious wow factors and I loved every single page of it! I was so invested and could not stop reading. I finished this book in a single sitting. The romance is pure fire. Definitely a must read if you love romance! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2026
❣️😲
Sin palabras. . . . . Simplemente sin palabras! En este segundo libro de la serie, ya conocemos más a todos los personajes y son demasiado magnéticos. Todos con sus ganas de luchar y sobrevivir y dispuestos hacerlo! Así que sin mas me voy a continuar de esta bella historia.
Muchas gracias a las autoras y a todo su equipo por este libro!
Sin palabras. . . . . Simplemente sin palabras! En este segundo libro de la serie, ya conocemos más a todos los personajes y son demasiado magnéticos. Todos con sus ganas de luchar y sobrevivir y dispuestos hacerlo! Así que sin mas me voy a continuar de esta bella historia.
Muchas gracias a las autoras y a todo su equipo por este libro!
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