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Truth or Pack: A Willow Lake Omegaverse Novel
They were part of the worst years of my life, can I trust them to be my pack?
When my mother sets me up on yet another blind date with a pack, I never expected to open the door to them.
Now here they are, three men from my past I never wanted to see again, challenging me not to turn them away and starting a not-so-innocent game of truth or dare.
When a storm throws us all together with no escape, I realize that they aren’t at all like the boys I remember. They’ve changed in so many ways, and so have I.
Holt is grumpy, but protective. The type of alpha who makes sure everyone is taken care of.
Ash is the playful bad boy, always reminding me that I’m the one in control and helping me experience new things.
Mathias, is the sweet beta that shows me it’s okay to be vulnerable. That they truly only want me.
They are begging me to give them a proper chance… but can I truly trust them with not just my heart, but my entire future?
Truth or Pack is a sweet, standalone omegaverse novel with a playful game of truth or dare, small town moments, realizing things are not always how they seem, and forced proximity that ends in a HEA. (Please bullying is from her past and the MMcs were not directly involved)
When my mother sets me up on yet another blind date with a pack, I never expected to open the door to them.
Now here they are, three men from my past I never wanted to see again, challenging me not to turn them away and starting a not-so-innocent game of truth or dare.
When a storm throws us all together with no escape, I realize that they aren’t at all like the boys I remember. They’ve changed in so many ways, and so have I.
Holt is grumpy, but protective. The type of alpha who makes sure everyone is taken care of.
Ash is the playful bad boy, always reminding me that I’m the one in control and helping me experience new things.
Mathias, is the sweet beta that shows me it’s okay to be vulnerable. That they truly only want me.
They are begging me to give them a proper chance… but can I truly trust them with not just my heart, but my entire future?
Truth or Pack is a sweet, standalone omegaverse novel with a playful game of truth or dare, small town moments, realizing things are not always how they seem, and forced proximity that ends in a HEA. (Please bullying is from her past and the MMcs were not directly involved)
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2025
476 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Jarica James
134 books678 followersJarica is an American author. She prefers writing paranormal and fantasy books. When she isn't writing she is playing her xbox with her husband and fellow nerd. She has two crazy boys who make writing a challenge, but one she gladly accepts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
July 8, 2025
Meh 🤷. I expected more angst with this. Instead she pretty much forgave the “bullies” right away.
Bland pretty much sums it up.
Bland pretty much sums it up.
June 2, 2025
i sat on writing this review bc i was so unsure how to articulate why this book wasn’t for me when everyone else has loved it. esp since i have enjoyed other Jarica James books. i have not read anything else by Jenée Robinson.
starting out with the writing style, it was hard to connect with at times and felt like it was a lot of telling and not showing. it made for the personalities of the men to be… confusing… they would tell us what their personalities were but didn’t seem to really fit them or their actions? all felt pretty surface level.
also the conflict about why Taryn hated the guys was resolved to quickly. yes there was a lot of miscommunication around it but there was no real conversation about it and one somewhat forced apology. and the rest of the issues came off juvenile the way it was written.
i think my biggest pet peeve tho was after Taryn bonded with one of the guys unexpectedly, and very quickly with no real conversations about bonds/bites previously, THEY DIDN’T TALK ABOUT IT AS A PACK. there was no bringing it up with the others that it happened and how the others felt. and no mention of if they could feel each others emotions, felt a link, etc. it made it feel like such a significant thing in OV usually was so unimportant.
this is the first book in what looks like a small town interconnected series. maybe i’ll try again with the next book in the series.
MFMM, 1st person multi-POV, early 30s characters
1 omega fmc, 1 beta mmc, 2 alpha mmcs
starting out with the writing style, it was hard to connect with at times and felt like it was a lot of telling and not showing. it made for the personalities of the men to be… confusing… they would tell us what their personalities were but didn’t seem to really fit them or their actions? all felt pretty surface level.
also the conflict about why Taryn hated the guys was resolved to quickly. yes there was a lot of miscommunication around it but there was no real conversation about it and one somewhat forced apology. and the rest of the issues came off juvenile the way it was written.
i think my biggest pet peeve tho was after Taryn bonded with one of the guys unexpectedly, and very quickly with no real conversations about bonds/bites previously, THEY DIDN’T TALK ABOUT IT AS A PACK. there was no bringing it up with the others that it happened and how the others felt. and no mention of if they could feel each others emotions, felt a link, etc. it made it feel like such a significant thing in OV usually was so unimportant.
this is the first book in what looks like a small town interconnected series. maybe i’ll try again with the next book in the series.
MFMM, 1st person multi-POV, early 30s characters
1 omega fmc, 1 beta mmc, 2 alpha mmcs
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2025
DNF 50%
So disappointing! At the half of the book the FMC already forgave the guys because they didn't "realise" that their girlfriends bullied her so much🤦🏻♀️🙄 And of course she didn't lose time to jump in bed with the guys🤦🏻♀️ Have some self respect girl...
So disappointing! At the half of the book the FMC already forgave the guys because they didn't "realise" that their girlfriends bullied her so much🤦🏻♀️🙄 And of course she didn't lose time to jump in bed with the guys🤦🏻♀️ Have some self respect girl...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2025
Good, not as great as some Jarica James novels
This book is pretty high quality and feels like a decent start to a potentially great series (Bea and Dani need books of their own). It doesn't quite hit the usual level I expect in a Jarica James book but it's literally one element making the story fall a little flat for me.
We'll start with what I love -
The characters: Protagonists, antagonists, side characters. They all hit the right points for me.
The basic storyline: the relationship building, the bits of background, the plot arc all work really well. Basic writing quality: Jarica's books generally have high quality editing with few if any typos and this book is the same.
The bestie: ok maybe this is covered in characters but the bestie quality really is an indicator of a good female centric book for me and Bea does her job!
The humor: gentle teasing, little jokes, just enough to be silly but never mean-spirited, this quad really is just sweetly funny.
The vengeance: muahhahahahah! Yes! Hit those antagonists where it hurts! This might actually be the best nonviolent antagonist resolution ever.
What bugged my brain? The enemies to unwanted blind dates to lovers piece of the puzzle. We get the background story. We see the guys point of view but, we also see Taryn's trauma is compounded by both the college students drama and her parental drama. Somehow Taryn's acceptance is just a bit too quick and easy. She had a lot of baggage to sort through and it felt more like she just shrugged it all off without any effort. It was just too simple for a complicated situation and a very strong woman.
This book is pretty high quality and feels like a decent start to a potentially great series (Bea and Dani need books of their own). It doesn't quite hit the usual level I expect in a Jarica James book but it's literally one element making the story fall a little flat for me.
We'll start with what I love -
The characters: Protagonists, antagonists, side characters. They all hit the right points for me.
The basic storyline: the relationship building, the bits of background, the plot arc all work really well. Basic writing quality: Jarica's books generally have high quality editing with few if any typos and this book is the same.
The bestie: ok maybe this is covered in characters but the bestie quality really is an indicator of a good female centric book for me and Bea does her job!
The humor: gentle teasing, little jokes, just enough to be silly but never mean-spirited, this quad really is just sweetly funny.
The vengeance: muahhahahahah! Yes! Hit those antagonists where it hurts! This might actually be the best nonviolent antagonist resolution ever.
What bugged my brain? The enemies to unwanted blind dates to lovers piece of the puzzle. We get the background story. We see the guys point of view but, we also see Taryn's trauma is compounded by both the college students drama and her parental drama. Somehow Taryn's acceptance is just a bit too quick and easy. She had a lot of baggage to sort through and it felt more like she just shrugged it all off without any effort. It was just too simple for a complicated situation and a very strong woman.
January 12, 2026
This book was, unfortunately, like every other book in this genre, played out.
On my hunt to discover the best ABO books, I run into these all the time. Same plot, same issues, insta love, rude love interests, blah blah blah. I honestly read this one because book two was on my radar, but after the writing in this one, the whole series is getting exiled.
On my hunt to discover the best ABO books, I run into these all the time. Same plot, same issues, insta love, rude love interests, blah blah blah. I honestly read this one because book two was on my radar, but after the writing in this one, the whole series is getting exiled.
July 3, 2025
I truly worry about the folks who gave this one 3-5 stars
June 26, 2025
Disappointing
I liked the premise. At first, with the MFC discovering that her scent matched pack used to be part of the crowd who bullied her, I thought it would be this amazing emotional read, but the whole thing felt shallow and rushed.
With the book being in the shorter side, I figured there wouldn’t be epic world building, but it was still a let down. The characters depth is paper thin. Their respective backgrounds are practically nonexistent. The author hints at this heavy mistreatment of the MFC by her family, which lead her to want to go no-contact, but it’s mostly just very vague allusions, and it gets a sort of flat fizzled for a “resolution”. And we have virtually no background for the MMCs except that they went to the same college as the MFC and come from wealthy families.
Their relationship progression makes little sense, making it very are for me to feel anything for the characters. I just find that a bullies-to-lovers where the MFC goes from “I hate you” to “I love you, let’s bond forever” in like 2-3 days just isn’t satisfying at all.
There is also a pacing issue where, even though stuff happens, there is no real ramp up or drop that would grab me as a reader.
I liked the premise. At first, with the MFC discovering that her scent matched pack used to be part of the crowd who bullied her, I thought it would be this amazing emotional read, but the whole thing felt shallow and rushed.
With the book being in the shorter side, I figured there wouldn’t be epic world building, but it was still a let down. The characters depth is paper thin. Their respective backgrounds are practically nonexistent. The author hints at this heavy mistreatment of the MFC by her family, which lead her to want to go no-contact, but it’s mostly just very vague allusions, and it gets a sort of flat fizzled for a “resolution”. And we have virtually no background for the MMCs except that they went to the same college as the MFC and come from wealthy families.
Their relationship progression makes little sense, making it very are for me to feel anything for the characters. I just find that a bullies-to-lovers where the MFC goes from “I hate you” to “I love you, let’s bond forever” in like 2-3 days just isn’t satisfying at all.
There is also a pacing issue where, even though stuff happens, there is no real ramp up or drop that would grab me as a reader.
June 20, 2025
The book sets up a lot of situations that could be full of angsty goodness, but fails to follow through.
Taryn went to a fancy private university on a scholarship, to please her parents. It wasn't really the university she wanted to go to. While she was there, the other elitist, rich, snobby students bullied her. It was like high school bullying type stuff, except they were supposed to be adults at a university. But whatever. The main bullies were a pack of guys and their girlfriends (who were not their true mates). Nobody realizes Taryn is their mate because the school makes students take scent blockers.
So the biggest incident was, they were doing a group project with Taryn and at least one of these girlfriends. Girlfriend didn't do any of the work for the project, and Taryn let her professor know. Girlfriend got a failing grade, then started a rumor that Taryn slept with the professor to pass the class. This almost cost Taryn her scholarship.
It's about 10 years later, and they are now in their 30's. Taryn went viral for creating "Blind Date with a Book" packages, so now she runs a business doing that. (It means the customer chooses the genre they want to read, and she sends them an unknown book of that genre.)
The guys live on a family-owned ranch, but each do different things. Like one is a mechanic, they do custom paint jobs, just different things.
The guys are:
Ash, I guess he's the leader. He opened the mechanic shop.
Holt, grumpy, rough around the edges.
Mathias, the beta. Artistic, creative.
Taryn's mother has been setting her up on dates with different packs, without her permission. So on this occasion, she thinks the family is getting together to spend the weekend at their lake house. When she gets there, she's alone and there's a note from her mother on the table. This time the mother has pretended to be her, and used a matching agency to find a scent matched pack. The pack that shows up is Pack Dixon, the guys from her pack of bullies.
At first, she just tells them to leave, but it's been raining, and a tree branch falls on their cars, so they are stuck while the roads are flooded, until they can be towed.
There's some difference of opinion about what happened at school. She says their whole group bullied her. The guys think "she was the book nerd all the girls bullied." So the guys don't think they were bullies to begin with. They think she really did sleep with the professor.
So this is setting up to be a good rejected mate, wrongly accused heroine kind of story, right? Wrong. Ash was on-off with ex-girlfriend Sadie until recently, so they are still in contact. He easily calls Sadie to ask about "that girl from Uni." Sadie has no hesitation admitting they made the whole thing up out of revenge for the failing grade, and Taryn never slept with the professor. She admits the girlfriends manipulated all the guys into ostracizing Taryn as well.
So, to get Taryn to talk to them, they propose a game of truth or dare. I don't know anyone who would play truth or dare with a group of guys they don't trust, alone in the woods. But Taryn agrees. It's mostly "truth" - not many dares. They could have just sat down and had a normal conversation instead of framing it as a game.
As it turns out, the guys have reformed from their fuckboi ways. They were in a near-fatal car accident a few years ago. Now, they all employ at risk youth and disabled veterans in their businesses.
So the next day, (at 33% of the book) the roads are clear. The guys get the cars towed. Taryn agrees to live with them at their house for two weeks to get to know them and see how it goes. That's pretty much the end of the drama.
Taryn went to a fancy private university on a scholarship, to please her parents. It wasn't really the university she wanted to go to. While she was there, the other elitist, rich, snobby students bullied her. It was like high school bullying type stuff, except they were supposed to be adults at a university. But whatever. The main bullies were a pack of guys and their girlfriends (who were not their true mates). Nobody realizes Taryn is their mate because the school makes students take scent blockers.
So the biggest incident was, they were doing a group project with Taryn and at least one of these girlfriends. Girlfriend didn't do any of the work for the project, and Taryn let her professor know. Girlfriend got a failing grade, then started a rumor that Taryn slept with the professor to pass the class. This almost cost Taryn her scholarship.
It's about 10 years later, and they are now in their 30's. Taryn went viral for creating "Blind Date with a Book" packages, so now she runs a business doing that. (It means the customer chooses the genre they want to read, and she sends them an unknown book of that genre.)
The guys live on a family-owned ranch, but each do different things. Like one is a mechanic, they do custom paint jobs, just different things.
The guys are:
Ash, I guess he's the leader. He opened the mechanic shop.
Holt, grumpy, rough around the edges.
Mathias, the beta. Artistic, creative.
Taryn's mother has been setting her up on dates with different packs, without her permission. So on this occasion, she thinks the family is getting together to spend the weekend at their lake house. When she gets there, she's alone and there's a note from her mother on the table. This time the mother has pretended to be her, and used a matching agency to find a scent matched pack. The pack that shows up is Pack Dixon, the guys from her pack of bullies.
At first, she just tells them to leave, but it's been raining, and a tree branch falls on their cars, so they are stuck while the roads are flooded, until they can be towed.
There's some difference of opinion about what happened at school. She says their whole group bullied her. The guys think "she was the book nerd all the girls bullied." So the guys don't think they were bullies to begin with. They think she really did sleep with the professor.
So this is setting up to be a good rejected mate, wrongly accused heroine kind of story, right? Wrong. Ash was on-off with ex-girlfriend Sadie until recently, so they are still in contact. He easily calls Sadie to ask about "that girl from Uni." Sadie has no hesitation admitting they made the whole thing up out of revenge for the failing grade, and Taryn never slept with the professor. She admits the girlfriends manipulated all the guys into ostracizing Taryn as well.
So, to get Taryn to talk to them, they propose a game of truth or dare. I don't know anyone who would play truth or dare with a group of guys they don't trust, alone in the woods. But Taryn agrees. It's mostly "truth" - not many dares. They could have just sat down and had a normal conversation instead of framing it as a game.
As it turns out, the guys have reformed from their fuckboi ways. They were in a near-fatal car accident a few years ago. Now, they all employ at risk youth and disabled veterans in their businesses.
So the next day, (at 33% of the book) the roads are clear. The guys get the cars towed. Taryn agrees to live with them at their house for two weeks to get to know them and see how it goes. That's pretty much the end of the drama.
July 31, 2025
Taryn's mother is determined to fix her up with an influential and wealthy pack despite her wishes. Her parents want a higher social status, and their Omega daughters are the way they intend to get it. Her older sisters went along with their plans and married rich, but Taryn wants the storybook love she reads about in her beloved books. So, when she finds out the family weekend at the lake house is yet another Pack setup, she is not happy. When she finds out the Pack her mother fixed her up with is the same one who bullied her throughout college, she is even less so. And discovering they are scent-matched doesn't change her reluctance to give them another chance. However, they are trapped in the lake house during a terrible storm, so the Pack has this time to change her mind and show her they are not the same men she knew at school. And what better way to start than a game of Truth or Dare?
I usually love Jarica James, but this book didn't live up to my expectations. I liked Taryn on her own and when she was with her girlfriends. She didn't impress me as an Omega with the guys. It's like she disappeared. Where was her pain and anger after the first few pages? Where were the messy, complicated feelings? I was disappointed there wasn't more of a discussion and apology between her and the guys regarding college and the bullying. Where was the groveling?? Clearly, these were good guys, but who they are now doesn't change their collective history. Their behavior during the university years shaped who she was and still impacts her today. I needed an atonement arc. I also needed more character and relationship development. This was all superficial, missing the usual depth this author provides. Without the layers, the college behavior overshadowed any legitimate feelings since they were scent matched. Would they have even noticed her if they weren't, since they clearly didn't pay any attention to her in school? This could have been an emotional, angsty read; the kind of story I adore, but it lacked heart.
I usually love Jarica James, but this book didn't live up to my expectations. I liked Taryn on her own and when she was with her girlfriends. She didn't impress me as an Omega with the guys. It's like she disappeared. Where was her pain and anger after the first few pages? Where were the messy, complicated feelings? I was disappointed there wasn't more of a discussion and apology between her and the guys regarding college and the bullying. Where was the groveling?? Clearly, these were good guys, but who they are now doesn't change their collective history. Their behavior during the university years shaped who she was and still impacts her today. I needed an atonement arc. I also needed more character and relationship development. This was all superficial, missing the usual depth this author provides. Without the layers, the college behavior overshadowed any legitimate feelings since they were scent matched. Would they have even noticed her if they weren't, since they clearly didn't pay any attention to her in school? This could have been an emotional, angsty read; the kind of story I adore, but it lacked heart.
October 3, 2025
3.5*, rounded up.
Summary: This is a sweet, low angst omegaverse with some OW and familial drama thrown in. It's quick and whilst there's an ex-bullies element to this, they weren't actively bullying her in the past, but they were complacent. (Fed into it, didn't care, and stood by and watched etc. Their girlfriends convinced the fmc that the guys were responsible for the bullying a lot of the time).
There were a few 'conflicts' in this that were presented and resolved without really feeling resolved, mostly because they didn't go into much depth. You have the ex-bully situation. She believed them cruel, but without 'seeing' what she endured it's hard to feel her pain. We're told their ex-girlfriends spread a rumour that she slept with her professor (nearly making her lose her scholarship) and there was a 'Carrie' moment at a party, but other than that nothing. After they explained this, all is pretty much forgiven and forgotten. They dive right in with minimal hesitation.
Her family. Her siblings are mentioned quite a bit but we never see them. Her parents wanted more than they were. They wanted to be apart of 'High Society' and rich. So, disregarding their daughters' feelings, thoughts or wants, they pair them off with wealthy packs. That's their entire reasoning for being shitty parents, so why when they get what they want (and then some) do they side with a random stranger to risk the hand that's feeding them? Why would they still hate her and why not hate their other daughters too?
One pet peeve of mine is the misappropriation of OCD (both irl and books). For example, in this Holt describes himself as someone who enjoys manual labor, that it gets him out of his head and into a rhythm/groove. Then follows that up with "Maybe it was an OCD thing." That's not OCD. OCD can be so severe it's completely debilitating, life destabilising. It's unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feelings that lead to repitious and compulsive behaviour.
Summary: This is a sweet, low angst omegaverse with some OW and familial drama thrown in. It's quick and whilst there's an ex-bullies element to this, they weren't actively bullying her in the past, but they were complacent. (Fed into it, didn't care, and stood by and watched etc. Their girlfriends convinced the fmc that the guys were responsible for the bullying a lot of the time).
There were a few 'conflicts' in this that were presented and resolved without really feeling resolved, mostly because they didn't go into much depth. You have the ex-bully situation. She believed them cruel, but without 'seeing' what she endured it's hard to feel her pain. We're told their ex-girlfriends spread a rumour that she slept with her professor (nearly making her lose her scholarship) and there was a 'Carrie' moment at a party, but other than that nothing. After they explained this, all is pretty much forgiven and forgotten. They dive right in with minimal hesitation.
Her family. Her siblings are mentioned quite a bit but we never see them. Her parents wanted more than they were. They wanted to be apart of 'High Society' and rich. So, disregarding their daughters' feelings, thoughts or wants, they pair them off with wealthy packs. That's their entire reasoning for being shitty parents, so why when they get what they want (and then some) do they side with a random stranger to risk the hand that's feeding them? Why would they still hate her and why not hate their other daughters too?
One pet peeve of mine is the misappropriation of OCD (both irl and books). For example, in this Holt describes himself as someone who enjoys manual labor, that it gets him out of his head and into a rhythm/groove. Then follows that up with "Maybe it was an OCD thing." That's not OCD. OCD can be so severe it's completely debilitating, life destabilising. It's unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feelings that lead to repitious and compulsive behaviour.
May 29, 2025
Truth, Dare, and Second Chances—Oh My!
Let me just say—this book dared me to feel every single emotion, and I truthfully loved every second of it!
When our heroine is set up (again!) by her meddling mom, she doesn't expect her blind date to turn into a full-blown emotional rollercoaster… especially not when the guys at the door are the same ones who made her high school experience a nightmare. Cue the dramatic gasp and a whole lotta tension!
What I adored most? The clever and constant use of truth or dare as more than just a game—it’s a tool for vulnerability, healing, and (yes!) sizzling chemistry. Each round peels back another layer, and suddenly those "mean boys" from her past aren't so easy to hate. In fact, they’re kind of impossible not to fall for.
Holt, Ash, and Mathias each bring something different to the table—grumpy alpha energy, deliciously cocky charm, and quiet, soul-soothing strength. And our girl? She’s not the same broken omega they remember—she’s fierce, funny, and determined not to fall for old tricks.
But here's the heart of the story: things—and people—aren’t always what they seem. Watching the past and present collide in such a tender, messy, and steamy way was pure magic. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, growth looks like giving others the chance to show they've changed… and giving yourself the chance to believe it.
If you love second chances, steamy redemption arcs, and games that turn into so much more, this one’s an absolute must-read.
Dare you to read it—and not fall in love
Let me just say—this book dared me to feel every single emotion, and I truthfully loved every second of it!
When our heroine is set up (again!) by her meddling mom, she doesn't expect her blind date to turn into a full-blown emotional rollercoaster… especially not when the guys at the door are the same ones who made her high school experience a nightmare. Cue the dramatic gasp and a whole lotta tension!
What I adored most? The clever and constant use of truth or dare as more than just a game—it’s a tool for vulnerability, healing, and (yes!) sizzling chemistry. Each round peels back another layer, and suddenly those "mean boys" from her past aren't so easy to hate. In fact, they’re kind of impossible not to fall for.
Holt, Ash, and Mathias each bring something different to the table—grumpy alpha energy, deliciously cocky charm, and quiet, soul-soothing strength. And our girl? She’s not the same broken omega they remember—she’s fierce, funny, and determined not to fall for old tricks.
But here's the heart of the story: things—and people—aren’t always what they seem. Watching the past and present collide in such a tender, messy, and steamy way was pure magic. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, growth looks like giving others the chance to show they've changed… and giving yourself the chance to believe it.
If you love second chances, steamy redemption arcs, and games that turn into so much more, this one’s an absolute must-read.
Dare you to read it—and not fall in love
July 23, 2025
This was a cute, simple read with low drama & cute characters. Makes a great pallet cleanser!
I enjoyed the vibes of this, the small town feel and found family. I think all the characters had their own identities and made for a cute Pack. I love that there’s a beta and he is just as important as the other members.
This felt like it targets certain kinks. It had a little bit of everything but not in a bad way..the FMC is a book nerd and has her own small business creating book boxes which I thought was a little corny but cute 🤷🏼♀️
The pack is made up of a country boy, Holt, who runs a ranch, a motorcycle riding flirt, Ash, and a nerdy artistic beta, Mathias. So you see what I mean by kinks 😂 I’m not complaining, I loved all 3 of them, it was just kind of funny.
I like that this is pretty low drama. She did put up a bit of a fight when they walked back into her life. I like that she didn’t immediately forgive them but it also wasn’t dragged out either. They said their peace and we got to get to know them.
With the cutesy vibes I didn’t expect the smut to be as open as it was! So that was a plus! 👏🏼 pierced MMC 😍 and it’s not a proper omegaverse if we don’t get a heat scene! This one doesn’t have any ⚔️ but they are all very close and are intimate in other ways, the way they care for each other & anticipate each other’s needs.
I might read the next one that’s set to come out bc I love the small town feel & the FMC for the next book. This is def a good palette cleanser.
I enjoyed the vibes of this, the small town feel and found family. I think all the characters had their own identities and made for a cute Pack. I love that there’s a beta and he is just as important as the other members.
This felt like it targets certain kinks. It had a little bit of everything but not in a bad way..the FMC is a book nerd and has her own small business creating book boxes which I thought was a little corny but cute 🤷🏼♀️
The pack is made up of a country boy, Holt, who runs a ranch, a motorcycle riding flirt, Ash, and a nerdy artistic beta, Mathias. So you see what I mean by kinks 😂 I’m not complaining, I loved all 3 of them, it was just kind of funny.
I like that this is pretty low drama. She did put up a bit of a fight when they walked back into her life. I like that she didn’t immediately forgive them but it also wasn’t dragged out either. They said their peace and we got to get to know them.
With the cutesy vibes I didn’t expect the smut to be as open as it was! So that was a plus! 👏🏼 pierced MMC 😍 and it’s not a proper omegaverse if we don’t get a heat scene! This one doesn’t have any ⚔️ but they are all very close and are intimate in other ways, the way they care for each other & anticipate each other’s needs.
I might read the next one that’s set to come out bc I love the small town feel & the FMC for the next book. This is def a good palette cleanser.
June 4, 2025
Rating- 4
Heat- 3
Tropes- sweet omegaverse, fated mates, scent match, MFMM, small town romance, reconnecting with former enemy
As with most Jarica James books, Truth or Pack is pure feel good fluff. There is little angst or conflict and most of the book is just the characters connecting. We get a tiny bit of family and OW drama, but it’s all quickly resolved.
While I love a book that is just a sweet story, I do feel this plot had potential to be more. A bit more depth would have taken it from a good read to a great one. We hear about Taryn’s days being bullied at school, but we never see it. There is no prologue or flashback to make me really feel her pain. She also forgives the guys shockingly quickly. I don’t even think they had a real conversation about how things actually went down. We, as readers, get the full story but she seems to just accept a basic explanation that they were lied to and moves on. From her POV, the guys weren’t just friends with the people who tormented her, but they actively participated in cruel pranks. Yet she asks no specific questions about it the active bullying she thought they did. It was like “You made my life hell! Oh, you were lied to? Ok then, let’s watch a movie and make out.”
Over all, I really enjoyed it, but was left wanting just a bit more.
Heat- 3
Tropes- sweet omegaverse, fated mates, scent match, MFMM, small town romance, reconnecting with former enemy
As with most Jarica James books, Truth or Pack is pure feel good fluff. There is little angst or conflict and most of the book is just the characters connecting. We get a tiny bit of family and OW drama, but it’s all quickly resolved.
While I love a book that is just a sweet story, I do feel this plot had potential to be more. A bit more depth would have taken it from a good read to a great one. We hear about Taryn’s days being bullied at school, but we never see it. There is no prologue or flashback to make me really feel her pain. She also forgives the guys shockingly quickly. I don’t even think they had a real conversation about how things actually went down. We, as readers, get the full story but she seems to just accept a basic explanation that they were lied to and moves on. From her POV, the guys weren’t just friends with the people who tormented her, but they actively participated in cruel pranks. Yet she asks no specific questions about it the active bullying she thought they did. It was like “You made my life hell! Oh, you were lied to? Ok then, let’s watch a movie and make out.”
Over all, I really enjoyed it, but was left wanting just a bit more.
July 14, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Truth or Pack is about Taryn who is deceived by her family into going to their family cabin in Willow Lake by her mother to meet a pack to settle down with. Only the pack that shows up at the cabin are three men who were in cahoots in her bullying back in college.
I enjoyed the past history between Taryn and her scent matches, Ash, Holt and Mathias. I liked how she shut them out for a little bit of time before hearing them out about what actually happened in their past, by using truth or dare. I thought it was a fun game to get them to know each other’s feelings, their past, and their likes and dislikes. And don’t get me started on the other women drama with Ash’s ex, Sadie! I enjoyed it and how Taryn stood up for herself when Sadie showed up in Willow Lake and basically jumped Ash, who continuously shut her down.
What I love about omegaverses is their primal possessiveness that they have and their need to protect, care and shelter each other. And these characters are no exception. I liked how they had their own personalities and interest and jobs, and how the guys took interest in Taryn’s passion for all things books.
I freaking loved Truth or Pack! It’s a sweet omegaverse that gets a little spicy 😉🥵 It was such a quick and easy read, and I highly suggest you read it!
Truth or Pack is about Taryn who is deceived by her family into going to their family cabin in Willow Lake by her mother to meet a pack to settle down with. Only the pack that shows up at the cabin are three men who were in cahoots in her bullying back in college.
I enjoyed the past history between Taryn and her scent matches, Ash, Holt and Mathias. I liked how she shut them out for a little bit of time before hearing them out about what actually happened in their past, by using truth or dare. I thought it was a fun game to get them to know each other’s feelings, their past, and their likes and dislikes. And don’t get me started on the other women drama with Ash’s ex, Sadie! I enjoyed it and how Taryn stood up for herself when Sadie showed up in Willow Lake and basically jumped Ash, who continuously shut her down.
What I love about omegaverses is their primal possessiveness that they have and their need to protect, care and shelter each other. And these characters are no exception. I liked how they had their own personalities and interest and jobs, and how the guys took interest in Taryn’s passion for all things books.
I freaking loved Truth or Pack! It’s a sweet omegaverse that gets a little spicy 😉🥵 It was such a quick and easy read, and I highly suggest you read it!
June 27, 2025
Honestly, it’s only been two days since I read this book and I can’t think of much to say about it. It wasn’t very memorable.
The FMC was harshly bullied in college, and where the pack’s girlfriends had a personal vendetta against her and tried to destroy her life. The men mysteriously didn’t notice. This is forgivable for some reason. Ignorance is bliss?
They were in a car accident after college and became nice guys. One is a rancher, one does custom paint jobs and is scared of storms, and one repairs motorcycles. They are now very honorable and nice. They hit their heads in that car accident and had a complete personality transplant.
There’s a variety of mean girls in this book. The ex girlfriend from college (and since then too… these guys went back for more at some point), the FMC’s mother, one of the guy’s moms. These women are farcically evil, but mysteriously functional in society despite their mental problems and lack of redeeming qualities.
In the end, the FMC gets to tell off all her bullies and also the internet takes her side!
The FMC was harshly bullied in college, and where the pack’s girlfriends had a personal vendetta against her and tried to destroy her life. The men mysteriously didn’t notice. This is forgivable for some reason. Ignorance is bliss?
They were in a car accident after college and became nice guys. One is a rancher, one does custom paint jobs and is scared of storms, and one repairs motorcycles. They are now very honorable and nice. They hit their heads in that car accident and had a complete personality transplant.
There’s a variety of mean girls in this book. The ex girlfriend from college (and since then too… these guys went back for more at some point), the FMC’s mother, one of the guy’s moms. These women are farcically evil, but mysteriously functional in society despite their mental problems and lack of redeeming qualities.
In the end, the FMC gets to tell off all her bullies and also the internet takes her side!
May 27, 2025
4.5 *
If you’re already a fan of Jarica James’ solo written smalltown omegaverses, you will love “Truth or Pack” as well. It has the exact same feeling as those books, with some difficulties to reach pack life, but also a lot of sweet moments.
The start of this standalone really hit me in the feels; I think many of us geeky bookloving girls can relate to this fmc, and to (parts of) her history. I love her personality, and the little accents in her character making her into the person she is. The men destined for her may not have started out in the greatest way, but they definitely make up for it in this part of their story. It’s still a standalone, so for some the relationship building may evolve a bit too quickly after the past these people share, but choices have to be made when standalones are being written.
All in all, this was a sweet small town omegaverse standalone, and when you’re a fan of the genre this will be right up your ally!
If you’re already a fan of Jarica James’ solo written smalltown omegaverses, you will love “Truth or Pack” as well. It has the exact same feeling as those books, with some difficulties to reach pack life, but also a lot of sweet moments.
The start of this standalone really hit me in the feels; I think many of us geeky bookloving girls can relate to this fmc, and to (parts of) her history. I love her personality, and the little accents in her character making her into the person she is. The men destined for her may not have started out in the greatest way, but they definitely make up for it in this part of their story. It’s still a standalone, so for some the relationship building may evolve a bit too quickly after the past these people share, but choices have to be made when standalones are being written.
All in all, this was a sweet small town omegaverse standalone, and when you’re a fan of the genre this will be right up your ally!
May 28, 2025
Whenever Jarica James releases a new omegaverse, I stand up and take notice. This time, she teams up again with Jenee Robinson and they make such a great co-write team. I was hooked from the beginning and almost finished it in just a day. If only I hadn't set it down to go to work. Yeah I know, pesky work. It always interrupts my reading time.
But anyways, back to the story. I really enjoyed the story of Taryn and her pack. Taryn is an omega who was set up with a pack by her mother. Who I thought meant well until you get to meet her. Holt, Mathias and Ash are well to do alphas who bullied her in college. Well, more like they were oblivious to her while their college girlfriends bullied her. And she lets that be known from the get go. She does not let that go and with good reason. It does take a little for the guys to win her over but that smoothed over fairly quickly. Again, really enjoyed the story and I can't wait for the next one!
But anyways, back to the story. I really enjoyed the story of Taryn and her pack. Taryn is an omega who was set up with a pack by her mother. Who I thought meant well until you get to meet her. Holt, Mathias and Ash are well to do alphas who bullied her in college. Well, more like they were oblivious to her while their college girlfriends bullied her. And she lets that be known from the get go. She does not let that go and with good reason. It does take a little for the guys to win her over but that smoothed over fairly quickly. Again, really enjoyed the story and I can't wait for the next one!
May 29, 2025
This was a sweet and cozy Omegaverse romance. I adored this book. The small town vibes made this book even sweeter, creating a perfect Omegaverse story.
Jarica James is one of my favorite authors of sweet Omegaverse books set in the cutest small towns, and this co-write with Jenee Robinson continues her trend of delivering amazing Omegaverse stories.
Taryn, the FMC and omega in this story, comes from an awful family. Truly awful. She finally meets her scent matches, only to realize that they already know each other and she really doesn’t like them. As they start to get to know each other again, the game of truth or dare begins. It is interwoven throughout the story in a fun way. I enjoyed watching the pack suffer early on for being jerks in their college days, but I also enjoyed watching Taryn learn to trust them and their growth as a pack together.
This was a super sweet and cozy Omegaverse romance story, with lots of steamy scenes as well.
Jarica James is one of my favorite authors of sweet Omegaverse books set in the cutest small towns, and this co-write with Jenee Robinson continues her trend of delivering amazing Omegaverse stories.
Taryn, the FMC and omega in this story, comes from an awful family. Truly awful. She finally meets her scent matches, only to realize that they already know each other and she really doesn’t like them. As they start to get to know each other again, the game of truth or dare begins. It is interwoven throughout the story in a fun way. I enjoyed watching the pack suffer early on for being jerks in their college days, but I also enjoyed watching Taryn learn to trust them and their growth as a pack together.
This was a super sweet and cozy Omegaverse romance story, with lots of steamy scenes as well.
May 30, 2025
This was such a cute story. I would definitely say it’s a light fluffy read. I haven’t read many omegaverse so I am unsure if it had all the elements an omegaverse lover might want but it was sweet and well written and had just the right amount of spice without being all spice. I liked that the story had depth. There is a little conflict with Taryns mom and Ash’s ex and I liked how both of those situations were dealt with. Taryn was bullied in the past and has for the most part learned to not let people walk all over her so when the guys show up at the cabin her immediate reaction was priceless! Knowing they were a scent match and finding out why she hates them the guys try their best to win her over. That is the best sweetest part. I liked the recurring theme of truth or dare and how it was incorporated throughout.
June 3, 2025
I choose pack.
I loved this omegaverse. Taryn is an omega who sells mystery book date boxes with a crappy family. She ends up going to the family lake house for family time. However, it was all a set up to match her with a pack. The 3 men who treated her like a pariah in college and made her life hell are her scent matches.
Holt is a grumpy alpha who is most definitely rough around the edges unless your Daisy the cow. Atlas the flirty alpha who has the bad boy/boy next door vibe down pact. Mathias the sweet Beta who is scared of storms.
While at the lake house disaster strikes and leaves the four of them without a vehicle. Taryn has to learn to manage her emotions and put the past behind them to move forward. The guys have to prove that they aren’t who they were in college.
Truth or Dare becomes a major a staple of this amazing book and I’m here for it.
I loved this omegaverse. Taryn is an omega who sells mystery book date boxes with a crappy family. She ends up going to the family lake house for family time. However, it was all a set up to match her with a pack. The 3 men who treated her like a pariah in college and made her life hell are her scent matches.
Holt is a grumpy alpha who is most definitely rough around the edges unless your Daisy the cow. Atlas the flirty alpha who has the bad boy/boy next door vibe down pact. Mathias the sweet Beta who is scared of storms.
While at the lake house disaster strikes and leaves the four of them without a vehicle. Taryn has to learn to manage her emotions and put the past behind them to move forward. The guys have to prove that they aren’t who they were in college.
Truth or Dare becomes a major a staple of this amazing book and I’m here for it.
June 3, 2025
Taryn had a rough college experience, marked by years of bullying. Now time has passed and she has grown a business and removed herself from people who would put her in similar situations, until her mother sets her up with yet another pack, THE pack whose hoard of follower girls tormented her. Holt, Ash, and Mathias aren’t like they were in college though. Time has matured them as well. It’s still going to take communication and an open heart for a second chance to be a real possibility. I loved that the guys showed maturity and patience and the desire to put in real effort and do things that the FMC was interested in. I loved that Taryn refused to just give in easily and didn’t lose her spirited nature just because they were her scent match. She stayed true to her heart and always spoke her mind.
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June 15, 2025Sweet but not for me
This book was sugary sweet, but I just don't think this author is for me. There is nothing inherently wrong with it, and it wasn't bad, but it's not something I would find myself ever recommending.
All conflict was resolved in a page or two, but no resolution was actually received. The spice felt regurgitated between chapters, and the heat had me bored.
There were also a number of inconsitancies and half explainations that bothered me. At the beginning, the guys are in the car and say "only 30 more minutes" but they only live 30 minutes away. Holt is in a beal button shirt, a white t-shirt, and then a flannel all in one chapter. What town was their business in? It's clearly not in the maintain, but they hint it's in the same town, but then again say it's not.... etc.
This book was sugary sweet, but I just don't think this author is for me. There is nothing inherently wrong with it, and it wasn't bad, but it's not something I would find myself ever recommending.
All conflict was resolved in a page or two, but no resolution was actually received. The spice felt regurgitated between chapters, and the heat had me bored.
There were also a number of inconsitancies and half explainations that bothered me. At the beginning, the guys are in the car and say "only 30 more minutes" but they only live 30 minutes away. Holt is in a beal button shirt, a white t-shirt, and then a flannel all in one chapter. What town was their business in? It's clearly not in the maintain, but they hint it's in the same town, but then again say it's not.... etc.
June 25, 2025
DNF - 54%
I might come back to this one?
I'm just really sick of men treating women like absolute trash but then suddenly they are scent matches and "all in" and the omega just forgives them like it's nothing. (and being willing to get pregnant right away...)
I understand we are all stupid and immature in our own ways in high school... (NOTE: this shit happened in COLLEGE. So still not even really justified..) but the guys dated the girls that were traumatizing this girl and they didn't suspect there was more to it? And expect her to just forgive them because they "didn't realize"? While also saying they should have because of how/who the bullies were? Please...
The drama with her parents also just felt a bit forced..
I might come back to this one?
I'm just really sick of men treating women like absolute trash but then suddenly they are scent matches and "all in" and the omega just forgives them like it's nothing. (and being willing to get pregnant right away...)
I understand we are all stupid and immature in our own ways in high school... (NOTE: this shit happened in COLLEGE. So still not even really justified..) but the guys dated the girls that were traumatizing this girl and they didn't suspect there was more to it? And expect her to just forgive them because they "didn't realize"? While also saying they should have because of how/who the bullies were? Please...
The drama with her parents also just felt a bit forced..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
This was a cute, sweet standalone with a nice mix of forced proximity, second-chance vibes, and just enough steam to balance out the softer moments. I liked the way the truth-or-dare setup created playful tension while also letting the characters open up and show how much they’d changed since the past.
Holt, Ash, and Mathias each brought something different to the pack dynamic — grumpy/protective, playful/bold, and sweet/vulnerable — which made the romance feel layered and balanced. I also appreciated that while the FMC’s history of bullying was acknowledged, it was clearly separated from the men she’s paired with here, which helped keep the focus on healing and moving forward.
Overall, a lighthearted and heartwarming read with a satisfying HEA.
Holt, Ash, and Mathias each brought something different to the pack dynamic — grumpy/protective, playful/bold, and sweet/vulnerable — which made the romance feel layered and balanced. I also appreciated that while the FMC’s history of bullying was acknowledged, it was clearly separated from the men she’s paired with here, which helped keep the focus on healing and moving forward.
Overall, a lighthearted and heartwarming read with a satisfying HEA.
October 30, 2025
Taryn’s adult life has been putting up with parents who only want to use her omega status to climb the social ladder. When she goes on what she thinks will be a family vacation she winds up on a set up with a pack they matched for her online. Only problem is she knows them from the uni her parents picked out and their gfs, at the time, were huge bullies and made her life hell.
These guys aren’t the same people they were then and after meeting her again they’re willing to help right the wrongs of the past and make it work. You’ve got everything in them gruff alpha whose a cinnamon roll underneath, a flirty but kind alpha, and a sensitive and caring beta.
That matched with her great mystery book date business is fantastic. It’s a super engaging and fun read
These guys aren’t the same people they were then and after meeting her again they’re willing to help right the wrongs of the past and make it work. You’ve got everything in them gruff alpha whose a cinnamon roll underneath, a flirty but kind alpha, and a sensitive and caring beta.
That matched with her great mystery book date business is fantastic. It’s a super engaging and fun read
May 27, 2025
This omegaverse was definitely a story of redemption and forgiveness! Taryn’s mom takes it upon herself to set her up with a pack after repeatedly being told not to. When this pack shows up, Taryn realizes she knew them from college, and they had a hand in bullying her. She wants nothing to do with them, but Mother Nature had other plans. Taryn allows them to tell her their side of things and to try to show her how they’ve changed in the years since college. Loved how Mathias, Ash, and Holt have turned into sweet and thoughtful men and how Taryn stops allowing people to walk all over her. Loved it!!!
May 30, 2025
Fast paced, swoony and with a little second chance drama thrown in, this story will have you kicking your feet giggling and wishing you too escaped to a holiday cabin in a small town.
Taryn is an unapologetic book girlie who after being bullied ruthlessly at college, is now a strong and feisty woman on a mission to make something of herself. Holt, Ash and Mathius are ghosts from her past, but these three men from the get go are relentless in proving that they have changed and will do anything to make her their omega.
Another amazing why choose omegaverse, and all our MC's in their 30's! I love this as the drama/life problems resonate a bit more with me.
We're not all like we were back in high school, and this story explores how time can change you both from the inside and out.
Taryn is an unapologetic book girlie who after being bullied ruthlessly at college, is now a strong and feisty woman on a mission to make something of herself. Holt, Ash and Mathius are ghosts from her past, but these three men from the get go are relentless in proving that they have changed and will do anything to make her their omega.
Another amazing why choose omegaverse, and all our MC's in their 30's! I love this as the drama/life problems resonate a bit more with me.
We're not all like we were back in high school, and this story explores how time can change you both from the inside and out.
May 29, 2025
Once I picked this up, I couldn't put it down until I finished it. This was the perfect mix of small town cozy and minor angst. The FMC is strong and knows her worth while the MMC's are supportive and the perfect mix of alpha energy. I love how they built this feel of community within the book and it makes you want to get to know more side characters stories. I can't wait to see how they continue to build this omegaverse world. There is some heat and swoonworthy Alphas but really emphasizes learning from the past and moving forward with your found family.
I truly related to their quote of "They're family, but sometimes the family you find are the ones who mean the most".
I truly related to their quote of "They're family, but sometimes the family you find are the ones who mean the most".
July 27, 2025
Are you looking for a cozy, why choose omega verse with hallmark movie vibes? Then look no further! This book was the epitome of second chances and new beginnings. I enjoyed every second of it.
Taryn is a girl after my own heart. She is so sweet and watching her grow into the amazing person she became in this book was so heartwarming. I loved her flirty and nerdy attitude was just so adorable. I absolutely loved her.
The guys each stood out in their own way. Strong and broody Holt, flirty Ash and caring Mathias. They’re a pack worth holding on to. I really enjoyed seeing them change for the better and become everything Taryn needed.
Taryn is a girl after my own heart. She is so sweet and watching her grow into the amazing person she became in this book was so heartwarming. I loved her flirty and nerdy attitude was just so adorable. I absolutely loved her.
The guys each stood out in their own way. Strong and broody Holt, flirty Ash and caring Mathias. They’re a pack worth holding on to. I really enjoyed seeing them change for the better and become everything Taryn needed.
August 19, 2025
this is a three/four star read
This is a three or four star read. I made it three cause towards the middle to end it started to drag. Them getting together was fun. Getting to know who they are now is fun. I wish we had more of their life after packing up. I wish there had been more angst anywhere even if it was familial. It’s unclear if the parents in the final chapter that were nice were Mathias’ or Holt’s mainly because Mathias said they were his but then they looked like Holt.
Overall it was a decent read. The epilogue with the kids was fun and I wish we had had more of that.
This is a three or four star read. I made it three cause towards the middle to end it started to drag. Them getting together was fun. Getting to know who they are now is fun. I wish we had more of their life after packing up. I wish there had been more angst anywhere even if it was familial. It’s unclear if the parents in the final chapter that were nice were Mathias’ or Holt’s mainly because Mathias said they were his but then they looked like Holt.
Overall it was a decent read. The epilogue with the kids was fun and I wish we had had more of that.
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