Shifting Nature

Shape-Shifter #4

by Jae

Faith and Tala’s fake relationship turns real, but can their love survive the secrets they’ve been keeping? Find out in the gripping conclusion to Jae’s paranormal lesbian romance.

After a carefully staged fake relationship brought them together, fox-shifter Tala and human Faith are no longer enemies. Now they’re allies working toward peace between their species, and they tell themselves that’s all they are.

But Faith can’t help thinking Tala’s interactions with her six-year-old daughter are the cutest thing ever, and Tala’s fox seems to have already chosen Faith as her mate.

Pretending to be a couple grows more complicated when a kiss for the paparazzi ignites sparks that feel anything but fake.

But when an anonymous letter reveals a dark secret from Tala’s past, the old distrust creeps in again.

Tala and Faith must decide: Can they risk everything to embrace the shifting nature of their relationship, or will fears and betrayals tear them apart for good?

Shifting Nature finishes the two-book saga that started with Enemies by Nature. While part of Jae’s shape-shifter series, they can be read independently of previous books.

Genres: Fantasy, Lesbian, Paranormal, Romance, LGBT, Enemies To Lovers, Slow Burn

302 pages, ebook

First published May 28, 2025

About the author

Jae 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.

Reviews

[Menestrella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything I said for the first part is also valid for Shifting Nature!

I can see more clearly also the need to accept each other and oneself the way we are.

Most of the times, there are no monsters but only those a narrow mind creates with prejudices and refusal to know more.

Jae's gave us a great example of understanding each other and communicating with each other.

I love Tala and Faith!

[Vita L. Licari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Enemies By Nature (A FAVORITE!) and I truly love Shifting Nature more! Also a FAVORITE! How can you not love Faith, Tala and little Chloe?!! They are a beautiful family. It deserves more than 5 stars!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This two-part series was excellent, focusing on Tala, a shifter, and Faith, a human whose father is very vocal in his prejudices against shifters. I have a deep affection for Faith and Tala’s journey. They transitioned from being unfriendly to becoming friends and eventually lovers, starting with a fake relationship, each motivated by different reasons. I truly adore it!

[Issy Waldrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Such a beautiful conclusion to the duology. Certain negative events that I thought might happen, did, but their impact wasn't as shattering as I feared, and were also quickly resolved, which I appreciated.

Overall, the two books form a wholesome, heartwarming story of acceptance and love, of finding that special someone, and of being able to accept others, even if they might be different to us. There are more analogies in the story to go along with the sapphic couple, and I really liked how they were presented.

I can easily say that they are the best entries in the series thus far! Easy recommendation.

[Jonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shifting Nature finishes the duology that starts with Enemies by Nature and is extremely satisfying. Faith and Tala have decided to trust each other and their relationship begins to progress, but quickly questions permeate the new-found peace. Was Faith really spying on Tala’s pack? Has Tala killed innocent humans, as an anonymous letter Faith received indicates?

As Faith and Tala navigate the challenging waters of Wrasa/human relations, they encounter obstacles, but learn to expect the best from each other. I particularly loved more interaction with Chloe, Faith’s daughter. Her immediate acceptance of Tala gives hope that the next generation will accept all people regardless of affiliation in our real society, at a time when we can really use it.

I anticipated that Faith and Tala would get together in this book, and Jae did not disappoint. Their mate bond is strong and the consummation of that bond is worth waiting for.

I received an advance review copy for free from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful conclusion to Faith and Tala's story. Strongly recommend to read "Enemies by Nature" before this book, of course. I truly enjoy the development of their relationship. Jae is undoubtedly solidly one of my must-buy authors.

[Florénce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Newest installment in shape-shifter series, easily my favorite in the series as well, a light hearted read, even though it's a two part story I finished it within two days. Love the large families and side characters, well not all of them because we do need antagonist for the story to be interesting. This is a well crafted and very much believable slow burn fauxmance between two enemy, and I enjoyed it every page.

[Elske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great stories! Looking forward to the short story mini-sequels now. And hopeful that sometime there might be new book in this fantastic series.

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Part 2. Not a standalone, so go read Enemies by Nature (Shape Shifter #7).

A bit more suspense, than what I was expecting. And a lot more at stake than initially thought, but kept me hooked until the very end.

I literally finished both books in one day and am hoping for a sequel somewhere... but knowing Jae there will probably be one (if I find it).

The highlight for me was Chloe. How she interacts with Tala is just so cute.

Also, a lot of themes were addressed in this book under the guise of shape-shifters. Themes like homophobia, racism, name-calling, identity and acceptance. At some point in the book I thought: "Oh that feels familiar", obviously not the 'turning into an animal' part, but the shutting out, throwing objects, parades.

And the fact that it was all directed at Wrasa, and not actually about the themes we face in society today made it even more believable. I think that society works like that, so if something even more different than the norm comes along, the 'lesser evil' would get accepted. (which is sad, but this book showed it kind of clearly)

After coming out as bisexual, she had encountered that attitude more than once in the church her father went to, and it cut deeply. “Why do you think hurling hateful comments at us is the Christian thing to do? Last I checked, the Bible says not to judge your fellow human beings.”
The expression of disgust on the woman’s face only deepened. “This”—she stabbed her finger in Tala’s direction—“is not a human. And if you really knew the Bible, you’d know it says, ‘Cursed be anyone who has sexual relations with any kind of animal.’“

(ok so this quote is actually from the first book: Enemies by Nature, but it fit into my review and it is practically one long book anyway)

[Carol Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

Faith and Tala’s story continues as their relationship enters new territory. No longer enemies they are working to unite the human’s and the Wrasa, when Faith receives a letter revealing a dark secret about Tala’s past and it threatens to tear them apart.

This is part two of a saga that is part of the shape-shifter series but can be enjoyed as a standalone story. I was very excited to join Faith and Tala on the next stage of their relationship. Having gotten past the fake aspect and developed real feelings for one another, the new threats towards them really were testing them and it was all going to come down to a matter of the heart. They were making so much progress until that damn letter turned up and then all the doubt that Faith suddenly had was making me worry.

There was a lot of drama when Faith asked Tala about what she had learned and in that moment I knew Tala would stop at nothing to prove to Faith again that she was not a monster. She really put her life on the line to do it and I admired her so much. There was also a lot more with Faith’s daughter in this story, because she had met Tala and in a way only kids can, was innocently unafraid and showing hope for the future being harmonious between humans and Wrasa. There were magical and unforgettable moments as they became a little family, and Tala finally found a purpose she had been longing for all this time.

I loved every second of this second part and hope Tala and Faith will turn up again in future stories.

[Lexi Plumb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Amazing

I've read countless romance novels, including everything else by Jae (which I loved!) and this is above and beyond my favorite. I don't leave book reviews because I'm too lazy, but I need you to know that both of these books are amazing.

[Looby Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book on this two parter was every bit as good as the first.
Tala and Faith were perfect for each other. I just wish I could find a wrasa to be with. Wonderful story, lovely characters including the side characters (except a select few) and just the right amount of drama. Plus no third act breakup as such. Loved them as I do all the other books in the series as a whole. Highly recommend

[Karen Worden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Great Hunter, I’m tail over muzzle, shipping Tala and Faith!

Jae, you say at the end of the book that family comes in all forms! And I say a big HOOOOWL!!- of agreement. Jae, this story made my heart grow three sizes bigger, maybe even Maki/Bear sized! Great Hunter what a cool story! I love Faith and Tala and their pup, Chloe. Jae, I really hope you continue writing for your Wrasa universe. The message that I feel from the story is overcoming prejudice. We are all better when we can find love and acceptance in our hearts. Jae, please keep writing messages of hope.

[Sarah Baxter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

This boom and it's first part that just came out. I could not put them down. I took a vacation day to read them all at once. So good.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alright I thought the first book was great, which it was... but this one has my heart out of the two. So many great and important moments in Tala and Faith's journey. I adore Jae's books and usually it is the last like 15 to 20 percent that tend to be my absolute favorites. With this book, it was like taking that favorite part of her books (for me) and expanding for an entire book so I could roll in my feels the entire time. SO GOOD. Also with this book comes so many precious moments and, as I said above, important moments revolving around Chloe and the innocence (and matter of fact-ness) that only a child can bring to open the eyes of the adults around her.

Though the first book had much to do with family, this book I felt focused a lot more on the families, both Faith's and Tala's. There are so many adorable moments I want to ramble on about but I feel like I'd give too much away. But it wasn't all sweet moments. There were plenty of moments of doubt (of betrayal), of heartache, of fear, and truth perhaps some were not ready to hear. Sometimes it takes a scare and honest truth from someone you would move the world for, to make old wounds and self made up notions to crack and subside, to possibly start to see the world in a different light. Though it may take time to fully come to terms, little steps help.

This book was so full of emotion for me. As an emotional reader... as an empathic reader, one that actually feels the emotions of characters, this is a book that I will need a few days to absorb and both cherish and come down from the emotional rollercoaster it brought before moving to another.

Highly recommend this one!! Please, please, pleeeease make sure you read the first one, Enemies By Nature. They are like one big book but put into 2 separate ones. And I am truly thankful the author chose to do it that way rather than cut the story down to fit it all into one, because these two (Tala and Faith) deserved nothing less. To truly grasp and appreciate their story, it needed to be told in its entirety, not chopped up.

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 🐺🦊

[Women Using Words · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Henriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fitting conclusion of the fabulous paranormal duology
This book ties in with Enemies by Nature, it‘s not a stand-alone read. It is a great conclusion.
Enemies by Nature focused on the distrust between the shape-shifters (Wrasa) whose existence was recently outed and the humans - this distrust and fear is mirrored in the fake-relationship of the fox-shifter Tala and the human Faith.
In Shifting Nature the relationship shifts to trust and communication between the couple. Jae does a very good job to show that such a shift is not easy and there are stumblestones, setbacks, betrayal, anger and old wounds not easy to heal. The pace picks up a lot!
I loved that people on both sides are not depicted in black/white, there are nuances, mistakes, there is history and there is the possibility of hope and resolution.
I am a sucker for kids. The young daughter of Faith brings out the playful side of the stern Wrasa-soldier Tala and I loved the family scenes and how she effortlessly integrates both sides.
The very slow-burn of book one is done and the heat is going up considerably.
The conclusion of this duology was convincing and satisfying. As always Jae‘s writing is smooth, the pacing is excellent and all threads of the story come together. I couldn‘t put it down and had to finish it asap.

I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.

[Shula McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I enjoyed Enemies by Nature I found this a much more satisfying read. Tala and Faith were a very interesting main couple, and it was nice to see them finally trust each other in this book. I loved Faith’s daughter Chloe whose innocence was greatly appreciated. It was nice to know that hate doesn’t always influence people, and can be stopped from being passed down the generations.
The pacing of the action (and romance) in this story was spot on. I stayed up late finishing it because I enjoyed it so much. In fact while reading this the pages flew by, and I was surprised at how far through I was whenever I looked. This story had all the best elements of a series. The appearances of beloved characters, the familiarity in knowing the main characters and the side characters which heightens the emotional connection you feel when you read, and a fantastic story arc.
There was so much to love about Shifting Nature, from the inside jokes between Tala and Faith (winking), the jokes wrasa understood (leaving a mouse at the foot of the bed), and the beautiful romance taking place on the pages. I would definitely recommend this story.

[Michelle Lisper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both “Enemies by Nature and Shifting Nature” are both well written and and told stories by Jae. Jae’s story telling talent is one that should not be missed. Jae writes across multiple lesbian genres and and each story captures my attention that I usually can;t put any of the stories down untul I finishing reading them non-stop. These two books I read back to back, because after finishing “Enemies by Nature” I had to see how it ended, and was glad to instantly read “Shifting Nature.”. I am so glad she published them so close together. Something else to note is Jae’s ability to continue a saga series and not miss any of the previous point of views within the saga is what makes her such a great author.

Jae, I am sorry to say that past 12 years that I have been reading all your work , I have not been good about leaving written reviews consistently. Now that I retired I hope to have more time and make up for lost time.

For anyone thinking about purchasing these books, don’t miss out on this continuing saga.

[Jennabeebs79 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The slow thaw between Tala and Faith in Shifting Nature is truly something special. Once on opposite sides of a species war, their initial hostility gradually melts away—glances start to linger, touches grow more frequent, and their smiles become unmistakably genuine. Watching that guarded tension shift into real affection made my romantic heart swoon. And as their partnership is put to the test, the depth of their feelings becomes undeniable, revealing a bond that only grows stronger with every challenge they face.

Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com

[Subira · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second part of Shifting Nature really pulled me in. It’s not just about fake dating anymore—it’s about what happens when real feelings grow in the middle of family tension, public pressure, and past pain. I loved watching Faith step up and Tala slowly let her guard down. Chloe adds so much warmth too. It’s emotional, a little messy in a good way, and full of moments that made me pause and feel. If book one was about pretending, this one’s about choosing—and that shift made all the difference.

[Shannon Luchies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Faith and Tala's relationship has gone public. Worse, someone hurts Tala for it, but Faith saves her and brings her home.


Faith's daughter Chloe thinks Tala is awesome, too.
When Tala is framed in a assassination attempt on Faith's bigot father, they have to solve it while figuring out their feelings.

Another really good book. Basically it's a two book long slow burn romance...

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wish it was longer

I absolutely loved reading both of Faith and Tala’s stories. I wish this was even longer. I’m glad there are going to be two more short stories released soon with these too. Though if Author Jae decides to release another full length about Tala and Faith and Chloe I would gladly buy it. Another great addition to her Shape Shifter series

[Taz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second book wih Faith and Tala. We learn how they solve the problem with Faot's father and why her Mom died. If you read the first book, you need tp read this one. We meet Chloe again and the Tala's pack. Loved it, read it :)

[Red Dragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well part two Shifting Nature did not disappoint! Having ‘devoured’ them in a weekend I’ll now go back and take my time so I can have a more leisurely enjoyment of these wonderful books!
Thanks Jae - a job very well done - again!

[Mayra Luria · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful series

I love Jae’s shifter world. Every time a new book comes out I reread the series. Her characters are engaging, dynamic and interesting… the story always page turning. Just read them

[KT · Rating 4 out of 5]

RAN to buy this one when it came out and loved it! Great way to end Tala and Faith's story.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tala, Faith and Chloe are the most beautiful family!! Please, Jae, never stop writing this series, i love it so much!!