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Shape-Shifter #3
Enemies by Nature
Fake dating your worst enemy—what could possibly go wrong? An enemies-to-lovers, paranormal lesbian romance that proves love can outfox anyone.
Ever since shape-shifters revealed their existence to the world, tensions between humans and Wrasa have been dangerously high. To improve their public image, the Wrasa council comes up with a bold plan: a fake relationship between one of their own and Faith MacAllister, the human daughter of their most vocal enemy.
Tala Peterson, an aloof fox-shifter with the attitude of an alpha wolf, is anything but thrilled to pose as Faith’s mate. She doesn’t trust her one bit—and rightfully so, as Faith has her own agenda. Their flirty banter is strictly for show, and if Tala finds Faith’s scent annoyingly irresistible, it’s only because of the mate scent their scientists concocted.
But when the wolf pack that raised Tala insists she bring her new mate home for a visit, the fake lovers are forced to not only share a bed but also to confront old prejudices. Soon, Faith faces a difficult choice: Should she keep spying on the Wrasa for her father, or can she trust Tala and her kind?
Enemies by Nature is the first novel of a two-book saga that concludes with Shifting Nature. While part of Jae’s shape-shifter series, they can be read independently of previous books.
Ever since shape-shifters revealed their existence to the world, tensions between humans and Wrasa have been dangerously high. To improve their public image, the Wrasa council comes up with a bold plan: a fake relationship between one of their own and Faith MacAllister, the human daughter of their most vocal enemy.
Tala Peterson, an aloof fox-shifter with the attitude of an alpha wolf, is anything but thrilled to pose as Faith’s mate. She doesn’t trust her one bit—and rightfully so, as Faith has her own agenda. Their flirty banter is strictly for show, and if Tala finds Faith’s scent annoyingly irresistible, it’s only because of the mate scent their scientists concocted.
But when the wolf pack that raised Tala insists she bring her new mate home for a visit, the fake lovers are forced to not only share a bed but also to confront old prejudices. Soon, Faith faces a difficult choice: Should she keep spying on the Wrasa for her father, or can she trust Tala and her kind?
Enemies by Nature is the first novel of a two-book saga that concludes with Shifting Nature. While part of Jae’s shape-shifter series, they can be read independently of previous books.
377 pages, ebook
First published May 14, 2025
43 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Jae
127 books3,812 followersJae is the author of twenty-six award-winning romances between women. She lives in the sunniest city of Germany, near the French and Swiss borders. The writing bug bit her at the age of eleven.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 27, 2025
Such I great book. I read it in one setting, I couldn’t but it down. Tala is a fox shape shifter who works as a solider for the Wrasa nation. Faith is a human whose father is anti-Wrasa and thinks that they murdered his wife 20 years ago. The Wrasa hatch a plot to have Tala and Faith pretend to fake date in the hopes that the public will begin to accept the Wrasa as normal people. Faith’s father accepts the plan but he makes Faith spy on the Wrasa in the hopes of finding out more about them so that they can eliminate them.
This is part of a shape shifter series, but you don’t need to read the earlier books to read this one. Tala is in an earlier book as a side character as a bodyguard to the main character. I have read most of the earlier books and it does help you understand the Wrasa way of life and thought processes.
There were many funny scenes and great character development. Jae did a great job with this one. It ends with a bit of a cliffhanger. Can’t wait to read the second half of the story.
This is part of a shape shifter series, but you don’t need to read the earlier books to read this one. Tala is in an earlier book as a side character as a bodyguard to the main character. I have read most of the earlier books and it does help you understand the Wrasa way of life and thought processes.
There were many funny scenes and great character development. Jae did a great job with this one. It ends with a bit of a cliffhanger. Can’t wait to read the second half of the story.
May 10, 2025
Yes, yes and yes! I couldn't have asked for a better sequel to the Wrasa series. I absolutely love "enemies to lovers" trope and I have a weakness for when two different worlds collide and after sparring and hating each other, thinking they are so different, they start communicating and learning that what they always knew isn't all true.
I also loved that Jae gave more space to the plot, to the evolving dynamics between Faith and Tala and less to the "I hate you, but I am also so attracted to you".
Enemies by Nature is a true slow burn, continuing the story of Tala Peterson, a Saru, and fox shape shifter, which I remember from True Nature. Tala is working now as Kelsey's body guard, when she receives a new assignment that will change her views on humans forever: fake-dating Faith MacAllister, the daughter of Wrasas most bitter enemy, in order to avoid an escalation of hate against all shape shifters. After an initial refusal from Faith, Tala is surprised when the human decides to help her. Tala knows she can't trust Faith, she might have a second secret agenda...
Jae has written another great novel, im which action, subterfuges, banter and revelations combine to keep you turning the pages at lightning speed.
The slowburn is excruciating, but I know that it will be worth in the end!
I love that Tara is a fox among wolves, and her feeling of always having to prove herself, wanting to "belong" is so heartfelt. I adore her character. Strong, apparently icy and arrogant as an alpha, but so protective of her family. But also funny and always teasing... a fox?!!
And Faith? She has already evolved so much in this first book that I can't wait to see what she'll do in the second one.
Yep, I am totally a #wroopie
ps. someone should print a T-shirt with that.
5 stars! Can't wait for 21st May! I could say more, but I don't want to spoil anything! Enjoy the adventure with many, many emotions!
I also loved that Jae gave more space to the plot, to the evolving dynamics between Faith and Tala and less to the "I hate you, but I am also so attracted to you".
Enemies by Nature is a true slow burn, continuing the story of Tala Peterson, a Saru, and fox shape shifter, which I remember from True Nature. Tala is working now as Kelsey's body guard, when she receives a new assignment that will change her views on humans forever: fake-dating Faith MacAllister, the daughter of Wrasas most bitter enemy, in order to avoid an escalation of hate against all shape shifters. After an initial refusal from Faith, Tala is surprised when the human decides to help her. Tala knows she can't trust Faith, she might have a second secret agenda...
Jae has written another great novel, im which action, subterfuges, banter and revelations combine to keep you turning the pages at lightning speed.
The slowburn is excruciating, but I know that it will be worth in the end!
I love that Tara is a fox among wolves, and her feeling of always having to prove herself, wanting to "belong" is so heartfelt. I adore her character. Strong, apparently icy and arrogant as an alpha, but so protective of her family. But also funny and always teasing... a fox?!!
And Faith? She has already evolved so much in this first book that I can't wait to see what she'll do in the second one.
Yep, I am totally a #wroopie
ps. someone should print a T-shirt with that.
5 stars! Can't wait for 21st May! I could say more, but I don't want to spoil anything! Enjoy the adventure with many, many emotions!
May 27, 2025
Not really enemies-to-lovers—more like mild disagreement to romance.
December 3, 2025
This was what I was hoping for, and more!
Hopefully the second one will be just as good.
Hopefully the second one will be just as good.
September 7, 2025
Nicely done! Moving on to the next book in the series
June 8, 2025
A wonderful book in the Wrasa series. Tala and Faith are both forced to act like real lovers while each harboring their own agendas. While the relationship progressed, we see the changes in each of the MC's thoughts and beliefs. What's different with this book is that it's the first of two for this storyline. I am certainly going to read the second book to find out how this relationship will further progress.
August 28, 2025
Loved. First read all the previous shifter stories again. That was a pleasure. Than this lovely new book. Enjoyed it. Classic Jae!
June 17, 2025
Brilliant Fantasy Adventure!
Tala is a Wrasa, a shapeshifter, and their community needs to work with the human world to try and improve their public image. Faith is the daughter of the human who is most vocal about how dangerous the Wrasa are, but the Wrasa council plan for Tala and Faith to enter into a fake relationship to achieve their goals, but when Tala’s family want her to bring Faith home, things get complicated for them both.
Loved this! Jae always delivers a meaningful and heart-warming story, and Enemies By Nature does just this. From the instant Faith and Tala were introduced there was a tension that had them both wary and on edge, but I admired how they both gave it their best to try and do what had been agreed between the Wrasa and the humans. As we were getting both sides of the story, it was funny how Faith and Tala were being tasked with similar missions to spy on one another or get information, and how only Faith was wary that Tala was onto what she was doing. It built the story up in such a way that when they had to confront the truth, it was the moment that broke tensions between them.
The story really focuses on Faith being on a journey to learn that the Wrasa were not the people her father insisted they were. She was curious but cautious, and it was intriguing sometimes how she decided what she would and wouldn’t report back. As they got to know one another better while spending time with the wolves who raised Tala, the real connection between them formed and I think we all knew it long before they did. There were little tells and things that gave me all the hope something real was developing between them and the plan was going to work, not because Tala was doing as she was tasked but because both their hearts were invested in one another and cared.
Really loved this and now very excited to find out what happens next for Tala and Faith in the next book in the series!
Tala is a Wrasa, a shapeshifter, and their community needs to work with the human world to try and improve their public image. Faith is the daughter of the human who is most vocal about how dangerous the Wrasa are, but the Wrasa council plan for Tala and Faith to enter into a fake relationship to achieve their goals, but when Tala’s family want her to bring Faith home, things get complicated for them both.
Loved this! Jae always delivers a meaningful and heart-warming story, and Enemies By Nature does just this. From the instant Faith and Tala were introduced there was a tension that had them both wary and on edge, but I admired how they both gave it their best to try and do what had been agreed between the Wrasa and the humans. As we were getting both sides of the story, it was funny how Faith and Tala were being tasked with similar missions to spy on one another or get information, and how only Faith was wary that Tala was onto what she was doing. It built the story up in such a way that when they had to confront the truth, it was the moment that broke tensions between them.
The story really focuses on Faith being on a journey to learn that the Wrasa were not the people her father insisted they were. She was curious but cautious, and it was intriguing sometimes how she decided what she would and wouldn’t report back. As they got to know one another better while spending time with the wolves who raised Tala, the real connection between them formed and I think we all knew it long before they did. There were little tells and things that gave me all the hope something real was developing between them and the plan was going to work, not because Tala was doing as she was tasked but because both their hearts were invested in one another and cared.
Really loved this and now very excited to find out what happens next for Tala and Faith in the next book in the series!
July 3, 2025
I was waiting for this book and it did not disappoint!!! The whole Shape-Shifter series is just brilliant. And I love the reappearance of old characters.
What I like about this book, is that the focus is not primarily on Tala being a shape shifter. We went from 'Shape-shifter exist' (Jorie and Griffin) to 'let's show the world who we are' (Kelsey and Rue). This book is more 'enemies to lovers in a fake relationship... and one of them is a wolf/fox-shifter'.
And I was so deeply into that world, that I found it very realistic. The setting of reality was already established in the earlier books. So although this is a standalone book I would really really recommend reading the books that come before this one.
What I like about this book, is that the focus is not primarily on Tala being a shape shifter. We went from 'Shape-shifter exist' (Jorie and Griffin) to 'let's show the world who we are' (Kelsey and Rue). This book is more 'enemies to lovers in a fake relationship... and one of them is a wolf/fox-shifter'.
And I was so deeply into that world, that I found it very realistic. The setting of reality was already established in the earlier books. So although this is a standalone book I would really really recommend reading the books that come before this one.
May 15, 2025
The world knows that Warsu exist now, but unsurprisingly, there is a lot of fear and hate, and humans are being, well, their usual selves, and with laws making Warsu lives difficult, it's hard not to fear the worst.
And when Tala is told fake date the daughter of one if the biggest Warsu haters, it's starts of as badly as you'd expect.
Except, of course, there is a reason behind the instructions, and fake dating has this way of evolving.
I think this is Jae's best shapeshifter novel to date! There is a lot of depth here, a reflection of troubles that we're facing at the moment, and there is something special about about Tala and Faith. Their own personal struggles, how they interact with other, and seeing their relationship grow... wow. They're easy characters to love, and even with all the secrets that abound, one can't help but want the very best for them (and the hope that one particular secret doesn't come back and bite them later).
I really really enjoyed it, and being part of a duology, it ends part way through their story. Fortunately, the second part is due out soon, and I'll be sitting down to read it as soon as it releases.
And when Tala is told fake date the daughter of one if the biggest Warsu haters, it's starts of as badly as you'd expect.
Except, of course, there is a reason behind the instructions, and fake dating has this way of evolving.
I think this is Jae's best shapeshifter novel to date! There is a lot of depth here, a reflection of troubles that we're facing at the moment, and there is something special about about Tala and Faith. Their own personal struggles, how they interact with other, and seeing their relationship grow... wow. They're easy characters to love, and even with all the secrets that abound, one can't help but want the very best for them (and the hope that one particular secret doesn't come back and bite them later).
I really really enjoyed it, and being part of a duology, it ends part way through their story. Fortunately, the second part is due out soon, and I'll be sitting down to read it as soon as it releases.
July 6, 2025
Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature — the two-book saga and latest installments in Jae’s Shape-shifter Series.
I’d stalled on reading them because I wasn’t sure if I needed a full series refresher (my memory is tragic when it comes to details), and I worried I’d be totally lost navigating the paranormal world of Jae’s shape-shifters. But even without rereading, things started to click as I went along. Familiar names like Jorie and Griffin from Book 1 came back to me, and I found my footing in the world of the Wrasa pretty easily — even if I still have no idea what Kelsey and Rue’s story was about (sorry to those twoooo!!)
Tala and Faith though? New characters, but instantly compelling. Their slow-burn romance was a total delight! Fake dating done right, with a believable emotional arc and chemistry that crept up and hit hard when it finally landed. And the pacing was just chef’s kiss!!
But what really impressed me was how much depth the duology had beyond the romance. Jae doesn’t just tell a story about shape-shifters — she digs into themes of identity, prejudice, and unlearning hate.
Faith’s journey in particular was layered and honest; watching her confront beliefs passed down by her father, and struggle to reconcile them with her actual experiences, felt real in a way that hit home.
I also appreciated the way the story spotlighted how hate is “inherited” and how allyship— even from the sidelines — can matter. It never felt preachy. Just grounded and true.
First book of the duology was already engaging, but the second one? Next level. If I devoured the ‘Enemies by Nature,’ I *inhaled* ‘Shifting Nature.’ I just couldn’t stop turning pages!!
This was such a strong continuation of the series. I wasn’t surprised. Jae rarely misses. But it’s been a while since I felt this locked in with one of her stories. Tala and Faith’s story is an easy 5/5 for me. It’s a riveting paranormal romance with heart, bite, and brains 🐺🦊
I’d stalled on reading them because I wasn’t sure if I needed a full series refresher (my memory is tragic when it comes to details), and I worried I’d be totally lost navigating the paranormal world of Jae’s shape-shifters. But even without rereading, things started to click as I went along. Familiar names like Jorie and Griffin from Book 1 came back to me, and I found my footing in the world of the Wrasa pretty easily — even if I still have no idea what Kelsey and Rue’s story was about (sorry to those twoooo!!)
Tala and Faith though? New characters, but instantly compelling. Their slow-burn romance was a total delight! Fake dating done right, with a believable emotional arc and chemistry that crept up and hit hard when it finally landed. And the pacing was just chef’s kiss!!
But what really impressed me was how much depth the duology had beyond the romance. Jae doesn’t just tell a story about shape-shifters — she digs into themes of identity, prejudice, and unlearning hate.
Faith’s journey in particular was layered and honest; watching her confront beliefs passed down by her father, and struggle to reconcile them with her actual experiences, felt real in a way that hit home.
I also appreciated the way the story spotlighted how hate is “inherited” and how allyship— even from the sidelines — can matter. It never felt preachy. Just grounded and true.
First book of the duology was already engaging, but the second one? Next level. If I devoured the ‘Enemies by Nature,’ I *inhaled* ‘Shifting Nature.’ I just couldn’t stop turning pages!!
This was such a strong continuation of the series. I wasn’t surprised. Jae rarely misses. But it’s been a while since I felt this locked in with one of her stories. Tala and Faith’s story is an easy 5/5 for me. It’s a riveting paranormal romance with heart, bite, and brains 🐺🦊
June 16, 2025
I enjoyed this immensely. Tala and Faith were great together, and I got fully invested in their relationship.
Tala's pack was so much fun to read about.
The only thing that left me miffed was the ending spot. I know there's another book immediately after this one, but. . . it feels like a weird place to end. I think I would have preferred one big book.
Alas, publishers are gonna do what publishers do. Onward to book #2.
Tala's pack was so much fun to read about.
The only thing that left me miffed was the ending spot. I know there's another book immediately after this one, but. . . it feels like a weird place to end. I think I would have preferred one big book.
Alas, publishers are gonna do what publishers do. Onward to book #2.
June 5, 2025
Jae never disappoints! This is a fantastic enemies to fake lovers love story. Tala is a Wrasa, Faith's father has a hatred of the Wrasa. When Tala is ordered to fake date Faith to help get humans to accept shifters, Faith's father agrees. He wants her to find all their secrets and proof that they killed her mother 20 years ago. But as the two get closer they're both fighting feelings. I can't wait to read book 2 Shifting Nature!A FAVORITE!! 5 stars!!!
July 8, 2025
Jae lo hace de nuevo, excelente libro.
la historia te mantiene entretenida, la problemática es actual. La parte policial y de investigación no decepciona y la historia uff super linda.
la historia te mantiene entretenida, la problemática es actual. La parte policial y de investigación no decepciona y la historia uff super linda.
June 1, 2025
I was hooked when I first started this Series!
This one is a bit different to the first books, it is timed after the reveal of the Wrasa. Human now know about shape shifters and are scared.
The dynamic between the two MCs is very interesting, as well as the family dynamics.
And oh that is slow burn at it‘s finest…
Do recommend!
This one is a bit different to the first books, it is timed after the reveal of the Wrasa. Human now know about shape shifters and are scared.
The dynamic between the two MCs is very interesting, as well as the family dynamics.
And oh that is slow burn at it‘s finest…
Do recommend!
May 27, 2025
Two people, two families, hatred toward each other for misunderstanding!
What a waste! Tala is a fox shifter and one small smell while jumping for a balloon for a young girl and her mother,mate! Too bad the mother is the daughter of the man who hates people like Tala and goes on T.V. to spread this lie of hate! Faith is the mother of the little girl and foolishly allows this hate to spread. Until Tala comes to Faith to propose a fake date to hopefully to spread the truth about shifters! What did you say? Enjoy!
What a waste! Tala is a fox shifter and one small smell while jumping for a balloon for a young girl and her mother,mate! Too bad the mother is the daughter of the man who hates people like Tala and goes on T.V. to spread this lie of hate! Faith is the mother of the little girl and foolishly allows this hate to spread. Until Tala comes to Faith to propose a fake date to hopefully to spread the truth about shifters! What did you say? Enjoy!
June 2, 2025
Excellent book. Story so well developed. I loved the characters and cannot wait for book 2. I can only hope and wish that Jae writes more books. I know she wears many work hats that takes away her time to spend on writing, but she is such a great storyteller. Maybe she need a 36-hour day to get everything done.
May 22, 2025
In Enemies by Nature, I absolutely loved the dynamic between Faith and Tala. Thrown together in a mission dubbed “Operation Make-Believe Mate,” they’re forced to smile for the cameras and play the perfect couple on social media—but behind the scenes, the banter and constant needling are pure gold. Faith’s deep-seated fear of the Wrasa adds a layer of tension that Tala can’t resist poking at, often with comical results. As the truth about the Wrasa begins to unfold, especially through their time with Tala’s family, Faith’s fear gradually fades, evolving into a genuine respect for a species many humans still struggle to accept.
Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com
Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com
May 18, 2025
Humans and Wrasa Collide: What could go wrong?
Jae your writing is a beautiful Venn diagram: the intersection of thrills, witty banter, and poignancy. Oh, my and sprinkled with many hilarious/awkward double entendres! Tala and Faith begin with dangerous cross purposes-each making the worst assumptions about the other. By the end of this book, there is hope that maybe, just maybe a deeper consideration between them builds a desperately needed bridge for connection. I can’t wait for the next book!
Jae you’ve written a clear parallel to the current political climate. I think the only path away from the madness of prejudice and vilifying each other is empathy, connections, and building bridges not walls.
Jae your writing is a beautiful Venn diagram: the intersection of thrills, witty banter, and poignancy. Oh, my and sprinkled with many hilarious/awkward double entendres! Tala and Faith begin with dangerous cross purposes-each making the worst assumptions about the other. By the end of this book, there is hope that maybe, just maybe a deeper consideration between them builds a desperately needed bridge for connection. I can’t wait for the next book!
Jae you’ve written a clear parallel to the current political climate. I think the only path away from the madness of prejudice and vilifying each other is empathy, connections, and building bridges not walls.
May 17, 2025
Outstanding
I LOVED this book! Jae is an amazing writer and as a shapeshifter enthusiast I really enjoy the way she creates her shifters and their family dynamics. I gobbled this one up and am eagerly awaiting the second half.
I LOVED this book! Jae is an amazing writer and as a shapeshifter enthusiast I really enjoy the way she creates her shifters and their family dynamics. I gobbled this one up and am eagerly awaiting the second half.
May 15, 2025
waiting for the next one
Great follow up to the revelation of the last novel. I won’t say more. Since I don’t want spoilers to occur.
Thank you for creating this universe.
Great follow up to the revelation of the last novel. I won’t say more. Since I don’t want spoilers to occur.
Thank you for creating this universe.
May 8, 2025
Enemies by Nature is a delightful fake dating, sloth burn, enemies to friends book. I love a good shifter romance and was excited to get my hands on this.
It’s been 3 years since the world learned that Wrasa (shifters) exist and they have a massive PR problem - people are scared of them. Wrasa already have to wear necklaces that identify them and they are in danger of losing their rights and citizenship. When a tabloid prints a photo from a parade and speculates that Faith, the daughter of leader of the most anti-Wrasa group in the country, is in a relationship with Tala, a Wrasa, the Wrasa council decides to take advantage of the opportunity to change the narrative.
Tala is completely uninterested in fake dating Faith, but can’t disobey the council. When she initially approaches Faith, it doesn’t go well. Faith’s father, however, convinces her to do it so she can spy on the Wrasa. He is convinced that Wrasa were responsible for the death of his wife 20 years ago and wants Faith to dig up what she can as the fake girlfriend.
The ways prejudice and ignorance makes people act out of fear and hate are front and center in this book. While Faith doesn’t believe everything her father says, she doesn’t have any alternative knowledge about Wrasa and they make her nervous. There are multiple great scenes that show how little Faith knows about shifters as she tries to bring Tala gifts (containing listening devices) that Wrasa hate. Tala isn’t much better, dismissing humans entirely. Jae expertly uses the differences between human (American) and Wrasa societies to weave a story that is full of learning and humanizing moments that cause both of our MCs to reconsider their preconceived notions about each other and their circles. This feels especially important in this moment.
I also want to give a shout out to Jae for continuing to flesh out details about Wrasa. The invention of perfume that can masquerade as mate scent is brilliant. The fact that the fake romance needs to convince both humans and Wrasa adds additional depth and layer to this conceit and I love it.
I received an arc and am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s been 3 years since the world learned that Wrasa (shifters) exist and they have a massive PR problem - people are scared of them. Wrasa already have to wear necklaces that identify them and they are in danger of losing their rights and citizenship. When a tabloid prints a photo from a parade and speculates that Faith, the daughter of leader of the most anti-Wrasa group in the country, is in a relationship with Tala, a Wrasa, the Wrasa council decides to take advantage of the opportunity to change the narrative.
Tala is completely uninterested in fake dating Faith, but can’t disobey the council. When she initially approaches Faith, it doesn’t go well. Faith’s father, however, convinces her to do it so she can spy on the Wrasa. He is convinced that Wrasa were responsible for the death of his wife 20 years ago and wants Faith to dig up what she can as the fake girlfriend.
The ways prejudice and ignorance makes people act out of fear and hate are front and center in this book. While Faith doesn’t believe everything her father says, she doesn’t have any alternative knowledge about Wrasa and they make her nervous. There are multiple great scenes that show how little Faith knows about shifters as she tries to bring Tala gifts (containing listening devices) that Wrasa hate. Tala isn’t much better, dismissing humans entirely. Jae expertly uses the differences between human (American) and Wrasa societies to weave a story that is full of learning and humanizing moments that cause both of our MCs to reconsider their preconceived notions about each other and their circles. This feels especially important in this moment.
I also want to give a shout out to Jae for continuing to flesh out details about Wrasa. The invention of perfume that can masquerade as mate scent is brilliant. The fact that the fake romance needs to convince both humans and Wrasa adds additional depth and layer to this conceit and I love it.
I received an arc and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2025
An exciting and thought-provoking new story about the Wrasa
This is the start of a wild ride that takes two books to come to its conclusion (Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature).
The world now knows that shape-shifters (Wrasa) are real and the reaction to this revelation is harsh: the human powers-that-be insist that their fellow-citizens/Wrasa need identify themselves at all times, they treat them as second-class citizens, there are haters and there are debates of revoking all their civil rights and separate them in certain areas (think reservations or worse concentration camps). Sounds familiar? Jae does a fine job in cleverly constructing a story which touches on the life of many LGBTQI+ people and other shunned minorities who were and still are vilified for being different.
The worst foe of the Wrasa is an alliance led by Peter MacAllister. A chance meeting between Peter‘s daughter Faith and Tala, a shape-shifter, turns out to be an opportunity for both sides to angle for power. Faith and Tala are to fake-date. The Wrasa think it will have them look good, Peter MacAllister wants to spy on the Wrasa - for reasons! Faith and Tala hate their roles and don‘t trust each other - at all. What could go wrong, right?
This is a typical meticulously crafted story by Jae with a very, very slow burn. The motivations, story development and people we get to meet are engaging and well fleshed-out. I loved to get to know the characters, their family and friends. There is no black/white on both sides - good people, sometimes misguided, old wounds festering, humanity (or Wrasa).
I couldn‘t stop and kept turning the pages. Also a paranormal not-yet-full-out-romance it will appeal to everyone who wants to read a great story and have a closer look at segregation of people who are different and at the roots of fear driving divisiveness.
PS.: The second books takes up the pace several notches (and the heat) and is another page-turner. More later … have to finish it right now.
I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
This is the start of a wild ride that takes two books to come to its conclusion (Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature).
The world now knows that shape-shifters (Wrasa) are real and the reaction to this revelation is harsh: the human powers-that-be insist that their fellow-citizens/Wrasa need identify themselves at all times, they treat them as second-class citizens, there are haters and there are debates of revoking all their civil rights and separate them in certain areas (think reservations or worse concentration camps). Sounds familiar? Jae does a fine job in cleverly constructing a story which touches on the life of many LGBTQI+ people and other shunned minorities who were and still are vilified for being different.
The worst foe of the Wrasa is an alliance led by Peter MacAllister. A chance meeting between Peter‘s daughter Faith and Tala, a shape-shifter, turns out to be an opportunity for both sides to angle for power. Faith and Tala are to fake-date. The Wrasa think it will have them look good, Peter MacAllister wants to spy on the Wrasa - for reasons! Faith and Tala hate their roles and don‘t trust each other - at all. What could go wrong, right?
This is a typical meticulously crafted story by Jae with a very, very slow burn. The motivations, story development and people we get to meet are engaging and well fleshed-out. I loved to get to know the characters, their family and friends. There is no black/white on both sides - good people, sometimes misguided, old wounds festering, humanity (or Wrasa).
I couldn‘t stop and kept turning the pages. Also a paranormal not-yet-full-out-romance it will appeal to everyone who wants to read a great story and have a closer look at segregation of people who are different and at the roots of fear driving divisiveness.
PS.: The second books takes up the pace several notches (and the heat) and is another page-turner. More later … have to finish it right now.
I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
May 16, 2025
Another clear winner for me from Jae. Two opposing forces having to come together to fake a relationship? Yes please. Fake relationship is a favorite trope of mine. This one also had plenty of uh oh moments, as in... by the way you doing that means this in Wrasa (the shape-shifter culture), with one leading to a way bigger scenario that either one had planned for. Faith was a true fish out of water in the dealings of Wrasa, and Tala wasn't much help by not telling her things before hand. Of course she has plenty of reason to keep things of the Wrasa culture close and not divulge things to her "enemy". But what they both find out over the course of the book is that they have much more in common than either initially wanted to realize. So maybe they can work together after all and maybe it won't be nearly as bad as they thought it would be. ;) But since this is a two parter we'll have to wait for book 2 to see just how this new found respect for one another will go, along with something else brewing within both of them that neither understand or want to address to themselves (much less confess to each other) quite yet. Thankfully the author is graciously planning to release book 2 weeks from this one, so we won't have to wait long to devour the next novel.
I didn't want to give much away in this review since it is continued in book 2 but some of my favorite parts.... Faith meeting Tala's family. One of my favorite scenes was the talk Faith and Jemma (Tala's mom) had in the middle of the night and then the whole "heating pad" moment afterwards. There is an absolute faaaavorite part but I don't wanna say it cuz I fear it ruins the moment of surprise and just pure character growth of one of them. so ... my lips are sealed. But to be fair, the entire last...hmmm, I'd say maybe quarter of the book was my absolute favorite. So many different emotions to go through during it. I'm so looking forward to the next installment! :D
I didn't want to give much away in this review since it is continued in book 2 but some of my favorite parts.... Faith meeting Tala's family. One of my favorite scenes was the talk Faith and Jemma (Tala's mom) had in the middle of the night and then the whole "heating pad" moment afterwards. There is an absolute faaaavorite part but I don't wanna say it cuz I fear it ruins the moment of surprise and just pure character growth of one of them. so ... my lips are sealed. But to be fair, the entire last...hmmm, I'd say maybe quarter of the book was my absolute favorite. So many different emotions to go through during it. I'm so looking forward to the next installment! :D
June 19, 2025
Although I don’t usually gravitate toward shapeshifter novels, Jae’s two most recent works stand out as noteworthy exceptions. In Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature, Jae doesn’t simply ask readers to suspend disbelief; she earns it by anchoring her stories in genuine emotion and solid character development. She seamlessly blends romance and realism, grounding the fantastical elements in truths that make even the wildest ideas of shapeshifting feel believable. This approach not only allows readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level, but also highlights the complexities of relationships, making the storytelling especially compelling.
In Enemies by Nature, the tension between Tala and Faith crackles from the very first page. Their opposing beliefs and backgrounds set the stage for a riveting enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Yet Jae goes beyond the trope. As Tala and Faith navigate their tense, fake-dating situationship, unexpected moments of collaboration emerge. This tentative cooperation doesn’t just advance the plot; it forces both women to confront their prejudices. Through well-crafted, tender scenes, Jae deepens Tala and Faith’s connection. These scenes ultimately showcase the positive power of empathy and understanding. In the end, their journey demonstrates that even in a world rife with conflict, shared goals and basic compassion can bridge divides and foster love.
Shifting Nature, the follow-up, turns inward to explore themes of identity and belonging. Tala’s struggl with her self-worth and her place in the pack becomes a powerful metaphor for personal growth and self-acceptance. Jae’s evocative prose and rich imagery illuminate Tala’s journey as she learns that true belonging comes not from yielding to expectations, but from embracing her authentic self. Witnessing Tala’s growth challenges Faith’s conservative beliefs about shapeshifters, prompting her to question her father’s hate-fueled contempt and bias. This shift ultimately leads Faith to discover her own agency in identity, acceptance, and love. Together, their transformations create a nuanced dance of growth, mutual understanding, and affection.
In a genre often dominated by action, these two books standout for their rich emotional depth and detailed character development. Jae’s storytelling immerses readers in the internal struggles and triumphs of Tala and Faith, making their journey feel both epic and intimately personal. The enemies-to-lovers and fake-dating tropes add layers of secrecy, betrayal, and political tension, heightening the stakes and emotional complexity. Tala and Faith’s inner growth fundamentally transforms their relationship by fostering deeper communication, increased vulnerability, and a shared commitment to understanding. This ongoing personal development encourages both characters to balance independence with togetherness, ensuring that neither loses sight of their own identity while growing closer as a couple. Ultimately, their inner journeys remind readers that love has the power to heal and transform.
Final remarks…
An effective and believable shapeshifter fantasy doesn’t just ask readers to suspend disbelief; it pulls them in by grounding the fantastical in characters built around relatable emotions and universal truths. When the extraordinary reflects the deeply personal, the story truly takes flight, especially when infused with romance. This is why Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature succeed: Jae understands this balance and integrates it seamlessly into her storytelling. Tala and Faith’s journey is complex; their road to a happily ever after is fraught with prejudice and hate, but ultimately serves as a metaphor for redemption, hope, and love. The themes challenge readers to reconsider their own biases, making the storytelling both engaging and thought-provoking. I can’t recommend Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature enough—they are both a delightful surprise!
Strengths…
Emotional depth
Complex, believable characters
Rich, cohesive world building
Strong, engaging romantic tension
Compelling narrative
In Enemies by Nature, the tension between Tala and Faith crackles from the very first page. Their opposing beliefs and backgrounds set the stage for a riveting enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Yet Jae goes beyond the trope. As Tala and Faith navigate their tense, fake-dating situationship, unexpected moments of collaboration emerge. This tentative cooperation doesn’t just advance the plot; it forces both women to confront their prejudices. Through well-crafted, tender scenes, Jae deepens Tala and Faith’s connection. These scenes ultimately showcase the positive power of empathy and understanding. In the end, their journey demonstrates that even in a world rife with conflict, shared goals and basic compassion can bridge divides and foster love.
Shifting Nature, the follow-up, turns inward to explore themes of identity and belonging. Tala’s struggl with her self-worth and her place in the pack becomes a powerful metaphor for personal growth and self-acceptance. Jae’s evocative prose and rich imagery illuminate Tala’s journey as she learns that true belonging comes not from yielding to expectations, but from embracing her authentic self. Witnessing Tala’s growth challenges Faith’s conservative beliefs about shapeshifters, prompting her to question her father’s hate-fueled contempt and bias. This shift ultimately leads Faith to discover her own agency in identity, acceptance, and love. Together, their transformations create a nuanced dance of growth, mutual understanding, and affection.
In a genre often dominated by action, these two books standout for their rich emotional depth and detailed character development. Jae’s storytelling immerses readers in the internal struggles and triumphs of Tala and Faith, making their journey feel both epic and intimately personal. The enemies-to-lovers and fake-dating tropes add layers of secrecy, betrayal, and political tension, heightening the stakes and emotional complexity. Tala and Faith’s inner growth fundamentally transforms their relationship by fostering deeper communication, increased vulnerability, and a shared commitment to understanding. This ongoing personal development encourages both characters to balance independence with togetherness, ensuring that neither loses sight of their own identity while growing closer as a couple. Ultimately, their inner journeys remind readers that love has the power to heal and transform.
Final remarks…
An effective and believable shapeshifter fantasy doesn’t just ask readers to suspend disbelief; it pulls them in by grounding the fantastical in characters built around relatable emotions and universal truths. When the extraordinary reflects the deeply personal, the story truly takes flight, especially when infused with romance. This is why Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature succeed: Jae understands this balance and integrates it seamlessly into her storytelling. Tala and Faith’s journey is complex; their road to a happily ever after is fraught with prejudice and hate, but ultimately serves as a metaphor for redemption, hope, and love. The themes challenge readers to reconsider their own biases, making the storytelling both engaging and thought-provoking. I can’t recommend Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature enough—they are both a delightful surprise!
Strengths…
Emotional depth
Complex, believable characters
Rich, cohesive world building
Strong, engaging romantic tension
Compelling narrative
June 15, 2025
Paranormal books are not usually my go to genre but I have read all of Jae’s previous books and couldn’t wait for Enemies By Nature to come out and I was not disappointed at all!
Tala and Faith’s story begins here as enemies coerced into a relationship out of duty and love. The Wrasa want to gain legal status in the human world and the anti-wrasa activist Peter MacAllister wants evidence to support his belief that all shape shifters aren’t to be trusted and should be segregated from humans.
Jae has written an exciting, funny, emotive and compelling romance with some very poignant moments and themes running through it. Parallels could be drawn with what is happening in some countries now but with human v human!!
A real page turner - can’t wait to get stuck into Part Two of Shifting Nature.
Tala and Faith’s story begins here as enemies coerced into a relationship out of duty and love. The Wrasa want to gain legal status in the human world and the anti-wrasa activist Peter MacAllister wants evidence to support his belief that all shape shifters aren’t to be trusted and should be segregated from humans.
Jae has written an exciting, funny, emotive and compelling romance with some very poignant moments and themes running through it. Parallels could be drawn with what is happening in some countries now but with human v human!!
A real page turner - can’t wait to get stuck into Part Two of Shifting Nature.
July 10, 2025
Tala, a highly decorated alpha from a powerful family, is all strength and restraint, while Faith, a human with more secrets than she lets on, brings warmth, stubbornness, and surprising emotional depth. Their fake relationship starts out tense (and bugged, literally), but over time, every date, argument, and awkward moment builds into something authentic and moving.
The world of the wrasa is layered with rules, rituals, and inherited power, and watching these two navigate that while pretending to be a couple was both entertaining and emotionally satisfying. Every scene felt like it mattered—whether it was cuddling by the sea, awkward TikToks, or a Mario Kart game turned soft moment.
If you love character-driven stories where trust is earned slowly, where the stakes are both political and deeply personal, and where the smallest gestures carry real weight, this one’s worth picking up.
The world of the wrasa is layered with rules, rituals, and inherited power, and watching these two navigate that while pretending to be a couple was both entertaining and emotionally satisfying. Every scene felt like it mattered—whether it was cuddling by the sea, awkward TikToks, or a Mario Kart game turned soft moment.
If you love character-driven stories where trust is earned slowly, where the stakes are both political and deeply personal, and where the smallest gestures carry real weight, this one’s worth picking up.
September 17, 2025
In short, I LOVED this book.
I read it as a standalone book, despite the fact that theres a few books preceding it in the series. It did feel like I was missing some context in the beginning, but that feeling went away quickly.
I usually prefer a book with at least a bit of spice, and this particular installmant had none, but it had YEARNING and flirty banter and wow the characters are just so loveable. I could easily put aside the lack of smut for this great story.
I’m a fan of fantasy, but I don’t think you’d have to be a fantasy lover to enjoy this. There were a lot of very realistic themes hidden behind the paranormal elements of the book. Just one example; a common theme in the story was dealing with bigotry and prejudice towards Tala’s species, which felt so parralel to real-world racism.
I read it as a standalone book, despite the fact that theres a few books preceding it in the series. It did feel like I was missing some context in the beginning, but that feeling went away quickly.
I usually prefer a book with at least a bit of spice, and this particular installmant had none, but it had YEARNING and flirty banter and wow the characters are just so loveable. I could easily put aside the lack of smut for this great story.
I’m a fan of fantasy, but I don’t think you’d have to be a fantasy lover to enjoy this. There were a lot of very realistic themes hidden behind the paranormal elements of the book. Just one example; a common theme in the story was dealing with bigotry and prejudice towards Tala’s species, which felt so parralel to real-world racism.
May 8, 2025
I’m so glad there’s another sequel in the Shape-shifter series. I was thrilled to find out that this one features a fox shifter especially since it’s written by Jae!
That said, I’m a bit disappointed—not with the story itself, but with how the fox is portrayed. Foxes are such fascinating creatures in the wild, full of cleverness, subtlety, and independence. However, in Enemies by Nature, I can see that Tala’s past among a wolf pack has shaped her behavior, making her come across more like a wolf than a fox. It would have been interesting to see how the fox traits could play out in a shifter dynamic, especially in contrast to the more pack-oriented wolves.
But that's just me thinking, and overall, I still really enjoyed the book, and I can’t wait for book two!
That said, I’m a bit disappointed—not with the story itself, but with how the fox is portrayed. Foxes are such fascinating creatures in the wild, full of cleverness, subtlety, and independence. However, in Enemies by Nature, I can see that Tala’s past among a wolf pack has shaped her behavior, making her come across more like a wolf than a fox. It would have been interesting to see how the fox traits could play out in a shifter dynamic, especially in contrast to the more pack-oriented wolves.
But that's just me thinking, and overall, I still really enjoyed the book, and I can’t wait for book two!
June 4, 2025
Tala, a shifter (wrasa) , is assigned to befriend Faith , the daughter of the wrasa's greatest enemy. The council thinks this could help human/shifter relations.
Faith originally refuses, but her father suggests they do it. He hopes she might learn the secrets the wrasa are keeping. However, both women find the relationship blurred.
Really good, solid read. Like most Jae Author books, it has a good mix of romance and humor, and the characters are all really engaging.
4 out of 5 stars.
Faith originally refuses, but her father suggests they do it. He hopes she might learn the secrets the wrasa are keeping. However, both women find the relationship blurred.
Really good, solid read. Like most Jae Author books, it has a good mix of romance and humor, and the characters are all really engaging.
4 out of 5 stars.
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