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Soldati Security #1
Assisting The Alpha
The one person he needs is the last person he wants…
ETHAN
Setting up my own security company after leaving the military hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing, but my team and I are determined to make it work. Unfortunately, in order to stop a serial killer before the coven do and win a government contract, I find myself hiring the cousin of my biggest rival.
He’s young. He’s a sorcerer. And the worst part? He’s cute as hell.
AYO
Getting a job with my coven’s biggest rival surely can’t be the worst idea ever, even if my gorgeous, grumpy, wolf shifter boss does have his doubts about my loyalty. Ok, so my magic is slightly unreliable, and yes, I get a little distracted by the sexy alpha, but Ethan and his team are my best chance at catching the serial killer targeting my people.
And if Ethan gets a little overprotective when my own life is in danger? I might just have to find a way to thank him…
Ethan and Ayo’s story is the first book in the Soldati Security series and contains a fated mate pair who take a while to figure out their HEA. This book contains no cheating and no mpreg. Please check the trigger warnings on the copyright page.
ETHAN
Setting up my own security company after leaving the military hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing, but my team and I are determined to make it work. Unfortunately, in order to stop a serial killer before the coven do and win a government contract, I find myself hiring the cousin of my biggest rival.
He’s young. He’s a sorcerer. And the worst part? He’s cute as hell.
AYO
Getting a job with my coven’s biggest rival surely can’t be the worst idea ever, even if my gorgeous, grumpy, wolf shifter boss does have his doubts about my loyalty. Ok, so my magic is slightly unreliable, and yes, I get a little distracted by the sexy alpha, but Ethan and his team are my best chance at catching the serial killer targeting my people.
And if Ethan gets a little overprotective when my own life is in danger? I might just have to find a way to thank him…
Ethan and Ayo’s story is the first book in the Soldati Security series and contains a fated mate pair who take a while to figure out their HEA. This book contains no cheating and no mpreg. Please check the trigger warnings on the copyright page.
264 pages, Paperback
First published June 10, 2025
56 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
Finn Walton
1 book33 followersFinn Walton is the author of Assisting The Alpha, the first book in the Soldati Security MM paranormal romance series. They started reading at a young age and never really stopped, finding their people in MM romance about 10 years ago. Finn was an aerospace engineer for too many years, eventually running away from the numbers to pursue their dream of becoming a full-time author.
Finn lives with their husband and daughter in North West England. When Finn isn’t reading or writing, they can be found enjoying family time, exploring their adopted city, and travelling the world.
Finn lives with their husband and daughter in North West England. When Finn isn’t reading or writing, they can be found enjoying family time, exploring their adopted city, and travelling the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
June 22, 2025
Superb debut novel
4.5*
I do love me a good paranormal romance, especially with a side order of mystery or suspicious behaviour and this debut novel gave me both.
It's very impressive for a first book, the narrative is solid and well paced, the mystery itself doesn't become obvious until nicely into the tail end of the storyline, and there's some solid world building.
There's some niggles too though, the major one being how often these guys dropped they were ex-SAS, which is 100% a no-no for any special forces but especially the SAS!
I'd also say, although it's set in Britain, it didn't really feel like it, or come across as particularly British/English in tone.
If it hadn't been mentioned, and the SAS references, I'd have put this in some generic middle American location.
Which is odd as I believe the author is British or at least British based.
Fortunately, that's about the only thing that bothered me as I loved everything else. Both Ayo and Ethan are fantastic characters, the secondary characters are utterly brilliant and the relationship development was sweet and steamy as appropriate.
I'm very much interested in every one of the pack and about another half dozen people as well!
4.5*
I do love me a good paranormal romance, especially with a side order of mystery or suspicious behaviour and this debut novel gave me both.
It's very impressive for a first book, the narrative is solid and well paced, the mystery itself doesn't become obvious until nicely into the tail end of the storyline, and there's some solid world building.
There's some niggles too though, the major one being how often these guys dropped they were ex-SAS, which is 100% a no-no for any special forces but especially the SAS!
I'd also say, although it's set in Britain, it didn't really feel like it, or come across as particularly British/English in tone.
If it hadn't been mentioned, and the SAS references, I'd have put this in some generic middle American location.
Which is odd as I believe the author is British or at least British based.
Fortunately, that's about the only thing that bothered me as I loved everything else. Both Ayo and Ethan are fantastic characters, the secondary characters are utterly brilliant and the relationship development was sweet and steamy as appropriate.
I'm very much interested in every one of the pack and about another half dozen people as well!
August 2, 2025
Rating: 4.5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: paranormal romance, MM
Tropes / tags: age gap, boss / employee, mystery
I had such a great time reading this story - Ethan and Ayo's story was full of magic, banter, mystery and found family!
It was very easy to get drawn into this one: the world building, characters and plot were all great and I loved seeing the paranormal representation here with shifters, magic users, vampires and fae. The mystery / murder plot and the investigation was a big part of the story and added quite a bit of suspense. It was very well written and the suspense kept building throughout the story, keeping me intrigued and guessing all the way to the end.
Ethan and Ayo's dynamic was very entertaining and sweet, and it was a lot of fun to see how growly Ethan became every time someone got close to his little sorcerer! I’m always a fan of shifter romances where the animal part of the shifter knows and ‘claims’ a partner before the human part does, and Ethan’s wolf was definitely both protective and possessive of Ayo from the beginning. Ayo was very powerful on his own though, and I liked how Ethan made sure that Ayo trained and felt comfortable to use his magic in high stress situations.
The security agency truly felt like one found family and as they'd all been part of the same special forces team, they had a lot of history together. Ayo fit right in though, and it didn't take long before everyone treated him as if he'd always been a part of their team. They were all so familiar with each other, and there was a lot of scenting and touching, as well as playful pranks and banter.
Assisting the Alpha was a fantastic debut and a promising start of a new series! It was entertaining and suspenseful, definitely the kind of story that's hard to put down while reading. I’m already so fond of this found family / pack, and I'm very excited to discover more of this world and its characters in the coming books!
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: paranormal romance, MM
Tropes / tags: age gap, boss / employee, mystery
I had such a great time reading this story - Ethan and Ayo's story was full of magic, banter, mystery and found family!
It was very easy to get drawn into this one: the world building, characters and plot were all great and I loved seeing the paranormal representation here with shifters, magic users, vampires and fae. The mystery / murder plot and the investigation was a big part of the story and added quite a bit of suspense. It was very well written and the suspense kept building throughout the story, keeping me intrigued and guessing all the way to the end.
Ethan and Ayo's dynamic was very entertaining and sweet, and it was a lot of fun to see how growly Ethan became every time someone got close to his little sorcerer! I’m always a fan of shifter romances where the animal part of the shifter knows and ‘claims’ a partner before the human part does, and Ethan’s wolf was definitely both protective and possessive of Ayo from the beginning. Ayo was very powerful on his own though, and I liked how Ethan made sure that Ayo trained and felt comfortable to use his magic in high stress situations.
The security agency truly felt like one found family and as they'd all been part of the same special forces team, they had a lot of history together. Ayo fit right in though, and it didn't take long before everyone treated him as if he'd always been a part of their team. They were all so familiar with each other, and there was a lot of scenting and touching, as well as playful pranks and banter.
Assisting the Alpha was a fantastic debut and a promising start of a new series! It was entertaining and suspenseful, definitely the kind of story that's hard to put down while reading. I’m already so fond of this found family / pack, and I'm very excited to discover more of this world and its characters in the coming books!
July 22, 2025
4.5
First let me just scream to heavens a big thank you to this author for all the diversity in this book! Yes yes yes yes! This is what I’ve been asking from MM authors for years!!!!! Books that aren’t just full of a certain demographic. When I think of Queer books I think of celebration of inclusivity. Of being able to live and be who you are and family and friends who love you. Yet time and time again authors miss that. Opting to write stories where everyone looks the same, their friend groups look the same still upholding systems that are the reasons for the harm of the Queer community.
This book did an amazing job of having all kinds of people, IN A FANTASY no less! I am here for it. Not only was the MC Black but there were Black Vamps, and Black shifters and Black witches, and Black friends, and Black office workers and Black possible mafia. It was a world not just full of cis whyte men but a very colorful world. I can not even begin to tell this author just how much I appreciate this. Dear Queer Authors this is what I want this is the worlds I crave!
AND to add to an incredibly diverse world, but an amazing story to go with it! I loved Ayo, everyone loves Ayo who wouldn’t love him. But even more I loved watching him find his love and find his family. A family being taken care of by his amazing partner. This is the start of a series I can wait to read more about. The story did excellent world build, with an overreaching plot. We got to meet future Mc’s who I can’t wait to read their stories. (I’m looking at you Mr Doc P. I have so many questions for you but also want to see you find your mate) And it’s has everything needed for an expanding family with lots of love. The smexy was yum and wild and fun!
For future:
Dual POV
Friendship before spice
No cheating / sharing
No om/ow
Strict roles on page not discussed
Diversity!!!!!!!!!
First let me just scream to heavens a big thank you to this author for all the diversity in this book! Yes yes yes yes! This is what I’ve been asking from MM authors for years!!!!! Books that aren’t just full of a certain demographic. When I think of Queer books I think of celebration of inclusivity. Of being able to live and be who you are and family and friends who love you. Yet time and time again authors miss that. Opting to write stories where everyone looks the same, their friend groups look the same still upholding systems that are the reasons for the harm of the Queer community.
This book did an amazing job of having all kinds of people, IN A FANTASY no less! I am here for it. Not only was the MC Black but there were Black Vamps, and Black shifters and Black witches, and Black friends, and Black office workers and Black possible mafia. It was a world not just full of cis whyte men but a very colorful world. I can not even begin to tell this author just how much I appreciate this. Dear Queer Authors this is what I want this is the worlds I crave!
AND to add to an incredibly diverse world, but an amazing story to go with it! I loved Ayo, everyone loves Ayo who wouldn’t love him. But even more I loved watching him find his love and find his family. A family being taken care of by his amazing partner. This is the start of a series I can wait to read more about. The story did excellent world build, with an overreaching plot. We got to meet future Mc’s who I can’t wait to read their stories. (I’m looking at you Mr Doc P. I have so many questions for you but also want to see you find your mate) And it’s has everything needed for an expanding family with lots of love. The smexy was yum and wild and fun!
For future:
Dual POV
Friendship before spice
No cheating / sharing
No om/ow
Strict roles on page not discussed
Diversity!!!!!!!!!
December 28, 2025
ARC review
For a debut novel, it was fantastic.
Ethan was all alpha male and a grump, loved him. He tried to resist Ayo so bad but to no avail.
Ayo was a sweet pie, so cute. He was so powerfull, and the way he would anything for the people he loved was everything. He really grew to his own person and it was heartwarming to watch.
Their found family was awesome, I loved them all.
I really can't wait to read more books from these series
For a debut novel, it was fantastic.
Ethan was all alpha male and a grump, loved him. He tried to resist Ayo so bad but to no avail.
Ayo was a sweet pie, so cute. He was so powerfull, and the way he would anything for the people he loved was everything. He really grew to his own person and it was heartwarming to watch.
Their found family was awesome, I loved them all.
I really can't wait to read more books from these series
June 16, 2025
For a debut author I am really impressed and I strongly suggest you should give this a go if you like supernatural, crime solving, slow burn fated mates (there’s no eyes meeting, must immediately jump into bed) and interesting side characters.
I do enjoy supernatural, I just like magic, vampires and shifters! Plus having a murder plot to solve is great to read as it always has me guessing as to who did it and why. I had an idea of who, but let’s just say the how and why was a complete surprise! I did not see that coming.
I thought our MCs, Ethan and Ayo, were well rounded. They both were competent - sometimes I’m in the mood for twink in distress - but here both could hold their own in different ways. Thankfully we didn’t have Alpha wolf postering and growling etc if Ayo happened to look at anyone else, as that drives me crackers - jealousy is not sexy! In fact it takes them until maybe 75% to realise they’re fated mates.
I liked learning about the worldbuilding as stuff was happening, not just a character sitting down to explain something to a newbie and info dumping us. I would have liked a little more on boundary dynamics between the witches, shifters and vampires, but that’s just me.
I thought the reasoning behind the killings was unique but it needed fleshing out a bit more. I think perhaps an extra chapter on the more ‘we found this out’ would have helped. It was a tad rushed. This point knocked it down to a solid 4 stars.
I’m totally going to read more books by this author, be in standalones or continuing this series. I’m glad that by doing an ARC from gayromancereviews.com that I got a chance to find this author. This review is 100% my own, feel free to check out my profile for other reviews as I’m pretty honest!
I do enjoy supernatural, I just like magic, vampires and shifters! Plus having a murder plot to solve is great to read as it always has me guessing as to who did it and why. I had an idea of who, but let’s just say the how and why was a complete surprise! I did not see that coming.
I thought our MCs, Ethan and Ayo, were well rounded. They both were competent - sometimes I’m in the mood for twink in distress - but here both could hold their own in different ways. Thankfully we didn’t have Alpha wolf postering and growling etc if Ayo happened to look at anyone else, as that drives me crackers - jealousy is not sexy! In fact it takes them until maybe 75% to realise they’re fated mates.
I liked learning about the worldbuilding as stuff was happening, not just a character sitting down to explain something to a newbie and info dumping us. I would have liked a little more on boundary dynamics between the witches, shifters and vampires, but that’s just me.
I thought the reasoning behind the killings was unique but it needed fleshing out a bit more. I think perhaps an extra chapter on the more ‘we found this out’ would have helped. It was a tad rushed. This point knocked it down to a solid 4 stars.
I’m totally going to read more books by this author, be in standalones or continuing this series. I’m glad that by doing an ARC from gayromancereviews.com that I got a chance to find this author. This review is 100% my own, feel free to check out my profile for other reviews as I’m pretty honest!
July 20, 2025
Character- 4.25/5
Plot- 4.5/5
Pacing- 4/5
Entertainment- 5/5
Rating- 4.5/5
This book is honestly just a lot of fun, a great shifter romance all tied up in a mystery plot with lots of contemporary fantasy elements. I'm a fan of a lot in this book, from the quirky characters, fun plot and steamy romance, it has quite a lot going for it.
Ethan and Ayo make a great pair, with Ethan providing the brooding and solid back up to the otherwise unsure of himself Ayo. They compliment each other nicely, with Ayo being a universally loved social butterfly to Ethan's solid wall of muscle and air of hostility he doesn't mean to give off. We get a good amount of character development for both, and it feels like we're going on a solid character journey alongside the plot, as these two spend more time together and begin opening up.
The plot is really fun and engaging, and is a competently written mystery that ties in closely to the events surrounding the characters themselves. Everything is actually working pretty seamlessly, and you'll begin to put together different elements of the story that culminate in a great twist.
And...wait is this the authors first published book?? This feels like the entry of an existing series from a veteran author.
I finished this book in one sitting, its the perfect length for this story, and is paced excellently to allow for character development, world building and building mystery that resolves organically. Holy hell this book is great, a really great first book, and I immediately went to add the next one to my TBR only to find out it hasn't been written yet?? Unthinkable and the author will need to fix that ASAP. Yeah this one is highly recommended, if your a fan of supernatural romance or mystery, or even both, then you'll love this book. Good job Finn Walton!
Plot- 4.5/5
Pacing- 4/5
Entertainment- 5/5
Rating- 4.5/5
This book is honestly just a lot of fun, a great shifter romance all tied up in a mystery plot with lots of contemporary fantasy elements. I'm a fan of a lot in this book, from the quirky characters, fun plot and steamy romance, it has quite a lot going for it.
Ethan and Ayo make a great pair, with Ethan providing the brooding and solid back up to the otherwise unsure of himself Ayo. They compliment each other nicely, with Ayo being a universally loved social butterfly to Ethan's solid wall of muscle and air of hostility he doesn't mean to give off. We get a good amount of character development for both, and it feels like we're going on a solid character journey alongside the plot, as these two spend more time together and begin opening up.
The plot is really fun and engaging, and is a competently written mystery that ties in closely to the events surrounding the characters themselves. Everything is actually working pretty seamlessly, and you'll begin to put together different elements of the story that culminate in a great twist.
And...wait is this the authors first published book?? This feels like the entry of an existing series from a veteran author.
I finished this book in one sitting, its the perfect length for this story, and is paced excellently to allow for character development, world building and building mystery that resolves organically. Holy hell this book is great, a really great first book, and I immediately went to add the next one to my TBR only to find out it hasn't been written yet?? Unthinkable and the author will need to fix that ASAP. Yeah this one is highly recommended, if your a fan of supernatural romance or mystery, or even both, then you'll love this book. Good job Finn Walton!
January 29, 2026
Assisting
This book for me is a 5/5. This story is something of a treat for me in that the lead characters are interracial. The story did hinge upon that at all. The characters and the plot are very authentic. Ayo is a sorcerer trying to move up in his family’s coven. He is denied and in frustration he quits and goes to work for the competition in the security business. In this world, paranormals work together to hides from humans and that is about all. Ethan, his new boss and a wolf shifter, does not trust him at first. As Ayo works with the team, he earns their trust especially since they are working to stop a serial killer. Ethan and Ayo begin to develop feelings for each but neither is sure about how the other feels. Ayo is also dealing with issues with his coven and does not want to be a bother anyone. But he has put himself right in the middle of something dangerous. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
This book for me is a 5/5. This story is something of a treat for me in that the lead characters are interracial. The story did hinge upon that at all. The characters and the plot are very authentic. Ayo is a sorcerer trying to move up in his family’s coven. He is denied and in frustration he quits and goes to work for the competition in the security business. In this world, paranormals work together to hides from humans and that is about all. Ethan, his new boss and a wolf shifter, does not trust him at first. As Ayo works with the team, he earns their trust especially since they are working to stop a serial killer. Ethan and Ayo begin to develop feelings for each but neither is sure about how the other feels. Ayo is also dealing with issues with his coven and does not want to be a bother anyone. But he has put himself right in the middle of something dangerous. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
August 2, 2025
DNF after ~100 pages
I gave it a good try, but I'm obviously an outlier here. I wanted to like it as much as so many others did in their reviews.The world-building was really good! Otherwise, I felt like the pacing was way off, and the characters fell super flat to me. I didn't care for the writing. It felt clunky. It's not awful, but it's maybe middling at best, like so many other paranormal romances.
I gave it a good try, but I'm obviously an outlier here. I wanted to like it as much as so many others did in their reviews.The world-building was really good! Otherwise, I felt like the pacing was way off, and the characters fell super flat to me. I didn't care for the writing. It felt clunky. It's not awful, but it's maybe middling at best, like so many other paranormal romances.
June 12, 2025
Assisting The Alpha is the first book in the Soldati Security series. This is a new author and this is their first book but it feels like she has been writing a long time. This is the story of Ethan an alpha wolf shifter and Ayo a sorcerer. This story was so well written that I felt like I was actually there. The world building and characters were well developed even the side characters. I loved watching these two figure things out and build their relationship. The plot was interesting and I enjoyed trying to figure out who the guilty person was. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
July 17, 2025
˗ˏˋ ꒰ 𝟑.𝟕/𝟓 ★ ꒱ ˎˊ˗
i was really vibing with this story, it had everything i love: a badass magic-user, a brooding alpha wolf, found family bonds & strong friendships, "secret" world with different animal shifters & magic-users with different ranks/roles (witches, mages, sorcerers), scenting and scent marking with possessive "mine" vibes, plus interesting plot with some murder mystery..👀🔥
i loved how both MCs tried to resist each other but just couldn't lol, it was especially fun & sweet seeing Ethan, the brooding wolf shifter, come to terms with his feelings, and also work through his past hurts.
Ayo was a sweet angel, i absolutely loved how everyone loved him & wanted to protect him, he had lots of connections - which may have pissed Ethan off initially🤫🤭 Ayo's wolf bestie was one of the bests too, i wouldn't mind reading more about him in the future!?!👀
all the scenting & scent marking were everything!!!! and not just when it came to the MCs; Ethan was scent-marking his team, his found family, his "pack" too!!! i love these bonds, their lil' mixed (shifter) family was warming my heart💞 and Ayo fit perfectly into their team/family!! also, Ethan could perceive a lot of things through scent including emotions which was really giving wolf-y vibes which is what i love in an animal shifter story!!🥰
the plot & murder mystery part were quite interesting, i was invested even tho i could guess a lot of things but there were still many intriguing world-building and other elements that made this story engaging, it was really well-written! i have to add, with all honesty, at around 70% i got distracted & couldn't really get back to this story as much as i was hooked in the beginning which i was quite bumped about but that could just totally be a me thing, especially as i'm a mood reader & been in a weird mood for a while now🙃 ok, rant over-
i love where this series is going, it has lots of potential and the side character & the team/pack members are super fun too so i'm really looking forward to seeing how their stories will go!!👀💗
➥ ᴍᴍ
➥ ғɪʀsᴛ-ᴘᴇʀsᴏɴ, ᴅᴜᴀʟ ᴘᴏᴠ
✧ ᴘɴʀ/ᴜʀʙᴀɴ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ
✧ sᴇᴄʀᴇᴛ sᴜᴘᴇʀɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ
✧ ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ × sᴜɴsʜɪɴᴇ
✧ ᴀʟᴘʜᴀ ᴡᴏʟғ sʜɪғᴛᴇʀ × sᴏʀᴄᴇʀᴇʀ
✧ ᴘᴏᴄ ᴍᴄ
✧ ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀ ɪɴᴠᴇsᴛɪɢᴀᴛɪᴏɴ
✧ ғᴏʀᴍᴇʀ sᴘᴇᴄɪᴀʟ ғᴏʀᴄᴇs ᴛᴇᴀᴍ / ғᴏᴜɴᴅ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ
✧ ʙᴏss × ᴇᴍᴘʟᴏʏᴇᴇ
✧ ᴀɢᴇ ɢᴀᴘ
✧ sᴄᴇɴᴛɪɴɢ, ᴍᴀʀᴋɪɴɢ, ᴍᴀᴛɪɴɢ
✧ ᴘᴏssᴇssɪᴠᴇ, "ᴍɪɴᴇ"
➽ ᴛᴡ: ɢʀɪᴇғ, ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ ᴏғ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ (ᴘᴀsᴛ), ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀ (ᴏɴ-ᴘᴀɢᴇ), ᴀᴛᴛᴀᴄs & ᴠɪᴏʟᴇɴᴄᴇ (ᴏɴ-ᴘᴀɢᴇ), ɪɴᴊᴜʀʏ/ɪɴᴊᴜʀʏ ᴅᴇᴛᴀɪʟs, ʙʟᴀᴄᴋᴍᴀɪʟ, ᴋɪᴅɴᴀᴘᴘɪɴɢ, ʜᴏᴍᴇʟᴇssɴᴇss
i was really vibing with this story, it had everything i love: a badass magic-user, a brooding alpha wolf, found family bonds & strong friendships, "secret" world with different animal shifters & magic-users with different ranks/roles (witches, mages, sorcerers), scenting and scent marking with possessive "mine" vibes, plus interesting plot with some murder mystery..👀🔥
✨*.° 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕, 𝑰 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒖𝒆 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔. 𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐬𝐬, 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐬. °.*✨
i loved how both MCs tried to resist each other but just couldn't lol, it was especially fun & sweet seeing Ethan, the brooding wolf shifter, come to terms with his feelings, and also work through his past hurts.
🐾.`` 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒂 𝒈𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒍 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒉𝒖𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒏. 𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒉 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆. 𝑨𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒎 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘.
𝑭𝒖𝒄𝒌. ``.🐾
Ayo was a sweet angel, i absolutely loved how everyone loved him & wanted to protect him, he had lots of connections - which may have pissed Ethan off initially🤫🤭 Ayo's wolf bestie was one of the bests too, i wouldn't mind reading more about him in the future!?!👀
ᰔ༄🐺 “𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒎𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒆, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎. 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝒗𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒆, 𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑶𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞.” 🐺༄ᰔ
all the scenting & scent marking were everything!!!! and not just when it came to the MCs; Ethan was scent-marking his team, his found family, his "pack" too!!! i love these bonds, their lil' mixed (shifter) family was warming my heart💞 and Ayo fit perfectly into their team/family!! also, Ethan could perceive a lot of things through scent including emotions which was really giving wolf-y vibes which is what i love in an animal shifter story!!🥰
the plot & murder mystery part were quite interesting, i was invested even tho i could guess a lot of things but there were still many intriguing world-building and other elements that made this story engaging, it was really well-written! i have to add, with all honesty, at around 70% i got distracted & couldn't really get back to this story as much as i was hooked in the beginning which i was quite bumped about but that could just totally be a me thing, especially as i'm a mood reader & been in a weird mood for a while now🙃 ok, rant over-
i love where this series is going, it has lots of potential and the side character & the team/pack members are super fun too so i'm really looking forward to seeing how their stories will go!!👀💗
➥ ᴍᴍ
➥ ғɪʀsᴛ-ᴘᴇʀsᴏɴ, ᴅᴜᴀʟ ᴘᴏᴠ
✧ ᴘɴʀ/ᴜʀʙᴀɴ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ
✧ sᴇᴄʀᴇᴛ sᴜᴘᴇʀɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ
✧ ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ × sᴜɴsʜɪɴᴇ
✧ ᴀʟᴘʜᴀ ᴡᴏʟғ sʜɪғᴛᴇʀ × sᴏʀᴄᴇʀᴇʀ
✧ ᴘᴏᴄ ᴍᴄ
✧ ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀ ɪɴᴠᴇsᴛɪɢᴀᴛɪᴏɴ
✧ ғᴏʀᴍᴇʀ sᴘᴇᴄɪᴀʟ ғᴏʀᴄᴇs ᴛᴇᴀᴍ / ғᴏᴜɴᴅ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ
✧ ʙᴏss × ᴇᴍᴘʟᴏʏᴇᴇ
✧ ᴀɢᴇ ɢᴀᴘ
✧ sᴄᴇɴᴛɪɴɢ, ᴍᴀʀᴋɪɴɢ, ᴍᴀᴛɪɴɢ
✧ ᴘᴏssᴇssɪᴠᴇ, "ᴍɪɴᴇ"
➽ ᴛᴡ: ɢʀɪᴇғ, ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ ᴏғ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ (ᴘᴀsᴛ), ᴍᴜʀᴅᴇʀ (ᴏɴ-ᴘᴀɢᴇ), ᴀᴛᴛᴀᴄs & ᴠɪᴏʟᴇɴᴄᴇ (ᴏɴ-ᴘᴀɢᴇ), ɪɴᴊᴜʀʏ/ɪɴᴊᴜʀʏ ᴅᴇᴛᴀɪʟs, ʙʟᴀᴄᴋᴍᴀɪʟ, ᴋɪᴅɴᴀᴘᴘɪɴɢ, ʜᴏᴍᴇʟᴇssɴᴇss
June 25, 2025
Why this being a debut is such a factor? I saw (in reviews) people dismiss a book / praise a book, just for it being a new author and I think we should cut that stuff out. Most things are relative but your enjoyment of a book is not relative to the author's experience - Is it a good book or is it not? The ratings are suspiciously high, hafta say.
To be fair, I liked a few things here but ultimately feel it was killed by the main character - more specifically, him being the super powerful naive snowflake. Like you know how you can have that super nice, kinda oblivious (usually clumsy but not here) fawn of a main character that people treat like everyone's favourite talking stuffed animal? Or how you have that one character whose power is so special people think what he does should be impossible and he can survive against impossible odds because he is such a badass? Well, that's Ayo. The worst of both worlds - both kinda young for his age and OP. Annoyingly trusting and also too talented for his own good. This would normally be a personal preference and I'd say the book was good, I just didn't click with this guy BUT it was a huge factor in the plot and the mystery. I said it before and I'll say it again - I need to respect my characters to like them and Ayo managed to miss the mark. I would think his superpowers would be balanced out by his kind nature but it just feels like he's out of balance on both sides. Like he's not only an idot (pardon my french) he's also an idot who could have made something of himself if he wasn't such a weakling (gosh look at me using such strong, mean language). Sorry.
The alpha is a bit better. I (un)(fortunately) saw this video essey on YT dissaproving and dissaparaging the term of "alpha" - the term was supposed to be based on actual wolf heriarchy but was, in fact, super misguided, based on the way wolves behaved in captivity (and we all know about that prison experiment and what it does to people, right?) and the author of that paper later reacalled it based on proper evidence. It's our patriarchal society that took this term to its most ridiculous conclusion and now has an actual term for silly people playing silly dominance games. And it's nowhere as prevalent as in books with actual wolf people packs so I now judge every alpha with this metric in mind (I had my reservations before that but it feels somehow more fake knowing what a hoggwash the origins of the term are) and this alpha wasn't a complete jerk.
While there were some interesting or sometimes just average elements and generally the style/writing and it was dual POV, I still feel like Ayo was a weak link I can't get over. Like, weak three stars over. I might try the next one just to see if this trend continues but I wasn't impressed.
To be fair, I liked a few things here but ultimately feel it was killed by the main character - more specifically, him being the super powerful naive snowflake. Like you know how you can have that super nice, kinda oblivious (usually clumsy but not here) fawn of a main character that people treat like everyone's favourite talking stuffed animal? Or how you have that one character whose power is so special people think what he does should be impossible and he can survive against impossible odds because he is such a badass? Well, that's Ayo. The worst of both worlds - both kinda young for his age and OP. Annoyingly trusting and also too talented for his own good. This would normally be a personal preference and I'd say the book was good, I just didn't click with this guy BUT it was a huge factor in the plot and the mystery. I said it before and I'll say it again - I need to respect my characters to like them and Ayo managed to miss the mark. I would think his superpowers would be balanced out by his kind nature but it just feels like he's out of balance on both sides. Like he's not only an idot (pardon my french) he's also an idot who could have made something of himself if he wasn't such a weakling (gosh look at me using such strong, mean language). Sorry.
The alpha is a bit better. I (un)(fortunately) saw this video essey on YT dissaproving and dissaparaging the term of "alpha" - the term was supposed to be based on actual wolf heriarchy but was, in fact, super misguided, based on the way wolves behaved in captivity (and we all know about that prison experiment and what it does to people, right?) and the author of that paper later reacalled it based on proper evidence. It's our patriarchal society that took this term to its most ridiculous conclusion and now has an actual term for silly people playing silly dominance games. And it's nowhere as prevalent as in books with actual wolf people packs so I now judge every alpha with this metric in mind (I had my reservations before that but it feels somehow more fake knowing what a hoggwash the origins of the term are) and this alpha wasn't a complete jerk.
While there were some interesting or sometimes just average elements and generally the style/writing and it was dual POV, I still feel like Ayo was a weak link I can't get over. Like, weak three stars over. I might try the next one just to see if this trend continues but I wasn't impressed.
June 24, 2025
4.5 Stars - I have been hankering for another good paranormal series lately, and this one grabbed my attention right away. A few pages in and I knew it was going to be great. This is a whole new world with a coven of magic users who currently run a task force for the supes. There are various shifter factions and a vampire section all separated by a neutral zone. Then, there are the Soldati Security guys. They are a group of ex-military (SAS) brothers made up of a vampire, a hawk and big cat shifters led by Ethan, an alpha wolf shifter. They are vying with the coven to take over the next task force contract.
Ayo is a mage, or technically, a sorcerer. Try as he might, he never seems to be able to impress his cousin and coven leader enough to let him climb any higher than accountant. So, his friend convinces him to branch out and apply for a job with Soldati Security. This is truly a turning point for Ayo and he is absolutely perfect for the position. He is respected and adored by many in each of the various groups and is the perfect liaison. While there is a certain level of initial distrust, the crew quickly make Ayo one of the team. Ethan is especially drawn to him and circumstances bring them even closer very quickly.
Ayo and Ethan have both faced betrayal and must rise from the ashes anew. While he seems to be an underdog when this story starts out, things evolve quite a bit by the time all is said and done. I loved how everyone adored Ayo and didn’t hesitate when he needed them. I loved how the team became their own pack and only grew stronger with each challenge they had to tackle. And, I loved growly alpha Ethan who knew Ayo was his from the start but tried to never push even realizing early on that they are fated mates.
There is a lot more to this story than simply relationships though. There is murder, mystery and suspense, with a few twists and turns. There is family drama, secrets and mystery inheritances, as well as a level of cruelty and betrayal. There is a good bit of history to the family, and I found the details and aspects of Ayo’s magic and abilities to be really interesting and added a lot to this story.
This is a fabulous debut story that looks like it has a bright future with a number of colorful and interesting characters. It never feels over the top but there is just enough to have you wanting to know more. It looks like we will get Raj’s story next as the guys grow their company, and I can’t wait to see them all again.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
Ayo is a mage, or technically, a sorcerer. Try as he might, he never seems to be able to impress his cousin and coven leader enough to let him climb any higher than accountant. So, his friend convinces him to branch out and apply for a job with Soldati Security. This is truly a turning point for Ayo and he is absolutely perfect for the position. He is respected and adored by many in each of the various groups and is the perfect liaison. While there is a certain level of initial distrust, the crew quickly make Ayo one of the team. Ethan is especially drawn to him and circumstances bring them even closer very quickly.
Ayo and Ethan have both faced betrayal and must rise from the ashes anew. While he seems to be an underdog when this story starts out, things evolve quite a bit by the time all is said and done. I loved how everyone adored Ayo and didn’t hesitate when he needed them. I loved how the team became their own pack and only grew stronger with each challenge they had to tackle. And, I loved growly alpha Ethan who knew Ayo was his from the start but tried to never push even realizing early on that they are fated mates.
There is a lot more to this story than simply relationships though. There is murder, mystery and suspense, with a few twists and turns. There is family drama, secrets and mystery inheritances, as well as a level of cruelty and betrayal. There is a good bit of history to the family, and I found the details and aspects of Ayo’s magic and abilities to be really interesting and added a lot to this story.
This is a fabulous debut story that looks like it has a bright future with a number of colorful and interesting characters. It never feels over the top but there is just enough to have you wanting to know more. It looks like we will get Raj’s story next as the guys grow their company, and I can’t wait to see them all again.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
June 13, 2025
*I got an arc*
CW: dead parents, familial abuse, age gap, boss-employee relationship (temp contract of 3 months), death of a friend
This was a fun book! I am always a sucker for grumpy/sunshine and while I wouldn’t say this totally fits, it definitely gives similar vibes!
Ayo, a sorcerer, is feeling neglected by his coven and family (there is substantial overlap). Every time he tries to get a more serious job with his family (like the task force), his magic stops working properly. To make matters worse, his cousin Nyoka is evicting him from his apartment in the coven house within the month. Ayo’s BFF Zaiden has an idea: if the task force won’t take Ayo, maybe their *competitors* will. Thus, Ayo ends up working for the very attractive werewolf Ethan and his company Soldati Security. Will Ayo & Ethan be able to solve the murders happening around the city or will Ayo end up being the next body found?
This was a pretty fun book! I tend to dislike boss/employee & age-gap romances, but I thought Finn Walton handled the inherent power imbalances in a way fairly well. Additionally, I thought the cast of characters were mostly well-rounded and the rest of the Soldati Security team is a riot to read about (I hope we see more antics in future books)! Ayo being universally loved by all species is delightful as is Ethan’s reaction to it (he’s not jealous of people hugging Ayo! Why would you say that?).
My only real quip (and this is my quip in many MM books) is the characterisation of female characters. Ayo’s cousin Nyoka (the one that evicted him)’s wife Lola *hates* Ayo but the hate is hollow and not really grounded in any reasoning that the reader can see. While her reasoning is discovered later on, it seems incredibly unlikely that a lawyer who is professed to be “crazy smart” would behave in the way she does. She doesn’t really have a personality beyond the stereotypically hateful ‘ice queen.’ While she is a secondary character, the lack of many female characters means that her characterisation (or lack thereof) is much more noticeable than it would be in a book with a closer gender ratio.
Overall I did find this a fun read and do look forward to more shenanigans from the Soldati Security crew!
CW: dead parents, familial abuse, age gap, boss-employee relationship (temp contract of 3 months), death of a friend
This was a fun book! I am always a sucker for grumpy/sunshine and while I wouldn’t say this totally fits, it definitely gives similar vibes!
Ayo, a sorcerer, is feeling neglected by his coven and family (there is substantial overlap). Every time he tries to get a more serious job with his family (like the task force), his magic stops working properly. To make matters worse, his cousin Nyoka is evicting him from his apartment in the coven house within the month. Ayo’s BFF Zaiden has an idea: if the task force won’t take Ayo, maybe their *competitors* will. Thus, Ayo ends up working for the very attractive werewolf Ethan and his company Soldati Security. Will Ayo & Ethan be able to solve the murders happening around the city or will Ayo end up being the next body found?
This was a pretty fun book! I tend to dislike boss/employee & age-gap romances, but I thought Finn Walton handled the inherent power imbalances in a way fairly well. Additionally, I thought the cast of characters were mostly well-rounded and the rest of the Soldati Security team is a riot to read about (I hope we see more antics in future books)! Ayo being universally loved by all species is delightful as is Ethan’s reaction to it (he’s not jealous of people hugging Ayo! Why would you say that?).
My only real quip (and this is my quip in many MM books) is the characterisation of female characters. Ayo’s cousin Nyoka (the one that evicted him)’s wife Lola *hates* Ayo but the hate is hollow and not really grounded in any reasoning that the reader can see. While her reasoning is discovered later on, it seems incredibly unlikely that a lawyer who is professed to be “crazy smart” would behave in the way she does. She doesn’t really have a personality beyond the stereotypically hateful ‘ice queen.’ While she is a secondary character, the lack of many female characters means that her characterisation (or lack thereof) is much more noticeable than it would be in a book with a closer gender ratio.
Overall I did find this a fun read and do look forward to more shenanigans from the Soldati Security crew!
June 14, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
There's just something about UK shifters that hits differently and so it was easy for me to get caught up in the vibe and enjoy this debut!! Finn Walton's world was a diverse and intriguing one, with multicultural rep and the very familiar discord between the different groups. The plot was your typical sketchy play for power, but i found the narrative style and tone as balanced, playful and comforting as other paranormal romances i've enjoyed in the past, so i had a good time with this!
In Assisting The Alpha we have a security team of shifters being all ex-military and super tricked out, going on missions and trying to solve some gruesome murders, and doing it with the kind of easy camaraderie that comes from serving in the armed forces together! There was ofc fated mates falling in love, at first complicated because of bigotry, but then feelings gonna feel. This wasn't a super emotional read by any stretch, but that wasn't a bad thing because the energy between all the other plotty aspects to this romance worked well together.
I loved how affable and endearing Ayo was! I just wanted to hug him like every single supe leader loved on him. And the extended-family feel to this was like a snuggle and i really liked that! And YES Ethan was a growly sexy thing and the loving was very hot, but i enjoyed how he was controlled and powerful and not oppressive with his alpha-ness. Very "special ops team leader" as opposed to his wolf being triggered into losing control and killing everyone.
So this was a fun start to a series that had a bit of dimension to it that has me curious and engaged! Looking forward to whatever's next for the babes at Soldati Security because this was fun and i can't wait for more!
There's just something about UK shifters that hits differently and so it was easy for me to get caught up in the vibe and enjoy this debut!! Finn Walton's world was a diverse and intriguing one, with multicultural rep and the very familiar discord between the different groups. The plot was your typical sketchy play for power, but i found the narrative style and tone as balanced, playful and comforting as other paranormal romances i've enjoyed in the past, so i had a good time with this!
In Assisting The Alpha we have a security team of shifters being all ex-military and super tricked out, going on missions and trying to solve some gruesome murders, and doing it with the kind of easy camaraderie that comes from serving in the armed forces together! There was ofc fated mates falling in love, at first complicated because of bigotry, but then feelings gonna feel. This wasn't a super emotional read by any stretch, but that wasn't a bad thing because the energy between all the other plotty aspects to this romance worked well together.
I loved how affable and endearing Ayo was! I just wanted to hug him like every single supe leader loved on him. And the extended-family feel to this was like a snuggle and i really liked that! And YES Ethan was a growly sexy thing and the loving was very hot, but i enjoyed how he was controlled and powerful and not oppressive with his alpha-ness. Very "special ops team leader" as opposed to his wolf being triggered into losing control and killing everyone.
So this was a fun start to a series that had a bit of dimension to it that has me curious and engaged! Looking forward to whatever's next for the babes at Soldati Security because this was fun and i can't wait for more!
June 15, 2025
Amazing start to the series and first novel!
2025 is killing it with amazing debut authors! Just as a first book in a new series this was fantastic; add that this is the author's debut book and I'm just blown away. I'm suuuuper excited about this series. The world building was great and I love that whilst we've got a really solid foundation there's still lots more to learn as we get insights from different characters POV. It can be hard to build that momentum but it's done really well here with a good balance between understanding what's going on and there being room for intrigue. Add into that some really well done social justice issues due to discrimination/tension between the supernatural races and corruption and you get a really good world to enjoy the story in. Finn and Ayo were such well-written characters (although, to be fair, it's wrong to single them out because all the characters were really well written). I felt truly awful for Ayo. He's been so badly treated by his family and coven for so long despite always being willing to be there for others. I liked that this book set up a family dynamic that revolved more about the people who love and care for you and not necessarily just around the idea of being related. It was just really nice to see that Finn, Ayo and the Soldati team were making a safe space for each other. Finn and Ayo together were kind of adorable because initially neither of them are great at seeing how good they are together (and even with the tension initially from Finn being cautious/suspicious those two had chemistry by the bucket load). It just makes when they get together even better imo. I'm really excited to see what comes next and what it means for Soldati now that they're in a more secure position.
2025 is killing it with amazing debut authors! Just as a first book in a new series this was fantastic; add that this is the author's debut book and I'm just blown away. I'm suuuuper excited about this series. The world building was great and I love that whilst we've got a really solid foundation there's still lots more to learn as we get insights from different characters POV. It can be hard to build that momentum but it's done really well here with a good balance between understanding what's going on and there being room for intrigue. Add into that some really well done social justice issues due to discrimination/tension between the supernatural races and corruption and you get a really good world to enjoy the story in. Finn and Ayo were such well-written characters (although, to be fair, it's wrong to single them out because all the characters were really well written). I felt truly awful for Ayo. He's been so badly treated by his family and coven for so long despite always being willing to be there for others. I liked that this book set up a family dynamic that revolved more about the people who love and care for you and not necessarily just around the idea of being related. It was just really nice to see that Finn, Ayo and the Soldati team were making a safe space for each other. Finn and Ayo together were kind of adorable because initially neither of them are great at seeing how good they are together (and even with the tension initially from Finn being cautious/suspicious those two had chemistry by the bucket load). It just makes when they get together even better imo. I'm really excited to see what comes next and what it means for Soldati now that they're in a more secure position.
June 14, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I thought that this was an amazing debut novel by Finn Walton. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the Soldati Security Series. I really enjoyed immersing myself in this world that Finn has created and I can’t wait to see what comes next, as this awesome new series continues. I thought Ethan and Ayo were good together and their chemistry was off the charts. I loved meeting the interesting characters of Soldati Security and loved how they made Ayo feel welcome pretty much from the get go even if they were wary of his motives, as Ayo’s cousin/coven leader is Ethan and Soldati’s Security’s biggest rival.
Ethan even took Ayo with him on his first day on the job to help investigate the serial murders which is huge, considering his coven has never given him the recognition he deserves. Yes, a lot of it has to do with needing someone to liaise with the locals but it didn’t take Ethan long to see Ayo’s worth, even if he was still wary of his motives. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this series as it continues, as well as more books from Finn Walton in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book and author to everyone.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I thought that this was an amazing debut novel by Finn Walton. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the Soldati Security Series. I really enjoyed immersing myself in this world that Finn has created and I can’t wait to see what comes next, as this awesome new series continues. I thought Ethan and Ayo were good together and their chemistry was off the charts. I loved meeting the interesting characters of Soldati Security and loved how they made Ayo feel welcome pretty much from the get go even if they were wary of his motives, as Ayo’s cousin/coven leader is Ethan and Soldati’s Security’s biggest rival.
Ethan even took Ayo with him on his first day on the job to help investigate the serial murders which is huge, considering his coven has never given him the recognition he deserves. Yes, a lot of it has to do with needing someone to liaise with the locals but it didn’t take Ethan long to see Ayo’s worth, even if he was still wary of his motives. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this series as it continues, as well as more books from Finn Walton in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book and author to everyone.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
June 27, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
This is both a debut for the Soldati Security series and a debut book for author Finn Walton, but it doesn’t read like it. While there’s a focus on establishing the world and the various power factions in town, it’s all done in a very natural and organic way. Why do they meet the cat alpha, Theo? Because he used to babysit Ayo, and the killer may or may not be a cat shifter. Why do they meet the vampires? Because Ayo — who calls many of them uncle or aunt — needs a lawyer. Nothing feels forced or obligatory, and everything comes together effortlessly.
The age gap may be an issue for some readers, with Ayo not even 21 during the course of the book and Ethan being a grown adult man, but it’s not emphasized. While there’s a serial killer, there’s not much gore or violence. Instead, there is solid world building, a well-constructed mystery, and a nice romance. I’m very curious to see where the author takes things in the next book, and will be keeping an eye out for it!
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
This is both a debut for the Soldati Security series and a debut book for author Finn Walton, but it doesn’t read like it. While there’s a focus on establishing the world and the various power factions in town, it’s all done in a very natural and organic way. Why do they meet the cat alpha, Theo? Because he used to babysit Ayo, and the killer may or may not be a cat shifter. Why do they meet the vampires? Because Ayo — who calls many of them uncle or aunt — needs a lawyer. Nothing feels forced or obligatory, and everything comes together effortlessly.
The age gap may be an issue for some readers, with Ayo not even 21 during the course of the book and Ethan being a grown adult man, but it’s not emphasized. While there’s a serial killer, there’s not much gore or violence. Instead, there is solid world building, a well-constructed mystery, and a nice romance. I’m very curious to see where the author takes things in the next book, and will be keeping an eye out for it!
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
June 13, 2025
ASSISTING THE ALPHA is the debut novel in the Soldati Security series, featuring a multi-species ex-SAS team, led by Ethan. They want a contract from the mayor, but are lacking in one area, which is where Ayo comes in. He is a sorcerer with fluctuating power levels, so his cousin, who is also the head of the coven, won't let Ayo do anything more than admin. In a fit of pique, Ayo quits and gets a job with Soldati Security, which opens many doors as he is well-liked by pretty much everyone.
Although Ethan and Ayo are fated mates, it isn't instantaneous, and neither party is sure. That doesn't stop them from acting on the attraction between them, but before long, this story is so much more than just that. You have an inheritance, serial murder, plus getting to know the individuals of the team.
This was a great read, and I look forward to returning to this world for Raj's story.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 3, 2025
Although Ethan and Ayo are fated mates, it isn't instantaneous, and neither party is sure. That doesn't stop them from acting on the attraction between them, but before long, this story is so much more than just that. You have an inheritance, serial murder, plus getting to know the individuals of the team.
This was a great read, and I look forward to returning to this world for Raj's story.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 3, 2025
June 13, 2025
I can hardly believe that this is a debut novel from a new author. Excellent worldbuilding. Unique characters. Absolutely loved the hierarchy of powers, witch at the lowest, sorcerers at the top. Sorcerer Ayo displayed magical power at age two, it is as natural as breathing. He's young, a point the author seems obsessed with making, until you realize that it's an integral part of the plot. Ethan, the Alpha wolf, is delightfully possessive and blindsided by love.
The Soldati team make for quirky and easy to love secondaries. Can't wait for their books. And Theo and Zaiden certainly deserve loves of their own even if they aren't on the actual security team.
Lots of edge of the seat action. An engaging mystery with a few plot twists. There are some sizzling bedroom scenes, but there is also great relationship development.
This was a fun, quick read. Nicely paced. An original storyline with some great worldbuilding. I can't wait for book two.
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
The Soldati team make for quirky and easy to love secondaries. Can't wait for their books. And Theo and Zaiden certainly deserve loves of their own even if they aren't on the actual security team.
Lots of edge of the seat action. An engaging mystery with a few plot twists. There are some sizzling bedroom scenes, but there is also great relationship development.
This was a fun, quick read. Nicely paced. An original storyline with some great worldbuilding. I can't wait for book two.
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
June 22, 2025
I love supporting debut authors, and when that debut book is fantastic ------ Score!!!
Other reviews have talked about the story, so I won't go into it here, except to say that Finn has created a cast of characters that I am just *dying* to read more about and see them get their HEAs.
Are there problems? Of course, there are teething issues, but absolutely nothing that takes me out of the world (ie the story) that Finn has created. The small issues I picked up, these will correct themselves over time with practice and confidence.
For a debut, this book felt very developed. The social structures, the magic world/usage, and the main characters introduced so far, were all very 3D, I only really noticed one and a bit characters that were a bit superficial, but they were secondary characters for most of the story, so it didn't really bother the story flow.
From the author's website, book 2 is due out in January 26, and that just can't come soon enough!!! Bring on Book 2!!!!!!!!!!!!
I highly, highly recommend giving this debut author a go!
Other reviews have talked about the story, so I won't go into it here, except to say that Finn has created a cast of characters that I am just *dying* to read more about and see them get their HEAs.
Are there problems? Of course, there are teething issues, but absolutely nothing that takes me out of the world (ie the story) that Finn has created. The small issues I picked up, these will correct themselves over time with practice and confidence.
For a debut, this book felt very developed. The social structures, the magic world/usage, and the main characters introduced so far, were all very 3D, I only really noticed one and a bit characters that were a bit superficial, but they were secondary characters for most of the story, so it didn't really bother the story flow.
From the author's website, book 2 is due out in January 26, and that just can't come soon enough!!! Bring on Book 2!!!!!!!!!!!!
I highly, highly recommend giving this debut author a go!
December 13, 2025
Assisting the Alpha is the first book in Finn Walton’s Soldati Security series, and it is one that has left me eager to see what comes next in the series. While this first book was far from perfect, it certainly had all the elements to keep me turning the pages and eager for more.
From the first page, Assisting the Alpha had me curious about the world and eager to learn more. It was obvious from the start who was the villain, but – other than some mental eye rolling at how oblivious characters were – I was able to overlook this because I was invested in seeing how things developed. With things moving quickly, I found myself devouring the story in no time as I was enjoying watching how things played out. Although I found some aspects to be a bit juvenile, I had fun with the various aspects introduced.
All in all, Assisting the Alpha was a fun read that I powered through in no time. My fingers are crossed the second book in the series builds upon this in a way that makes it a stronger read.
From the first page, Assisting the Alpha had me curious about the world and eager to learn more. It was obvious from the start who was the villain, but – other than some mental eye rolling at how oblivious characters were – I was able to overlook this because I was invested in seeing how things developed. With things moving quickly, I found myself devouring the story in no time as I was enjoying watching how things played out. Although I found some aspects to be a bit juvenile, I had fun with the various aspects introduced.
All in all, Assisting the Alpha was a fun read that I powered through in no time. My fingers are crossed the second book in the series builds upon this in a way that makes it a stronger read.
June 12, 2025
Absolutely INCREDIBLE. It’s hard to believe it’s a debut because it reads like it was written by a seasoned author. This book has everything. EVERYTHING. The plot is plotting. The spice is spicing. The romance is ROMANCING. Ethan and Ayo end up working together after Ayo ends his working relationship with his coven. From there, the plot unravels slowly and surely. There’s murders, and investigations, and subterfuge, and reaching one’s new heights with their magic. There’s old bad blood and new bad blood. There’s a variety of species: magic users, shifters, vampires. It’s so freaking incredibly wonderful and the world-building is fantastic. It’s like I was there with the Soldati Security crew sitting first row to all the shenanigans that unfold. Absolutely 10/10. I can’t wait for the next book. It’s not even been announced but I’m seated and I’m waiting!
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review is voluntary and honest.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review is voluntary and honest.
June 13, 2025
kay so first off this is a new author for me I hadn't read anything by them before I don't even know if they have anything else out I'm going to find out though when I'm done with this review. I've read one book by this author this book and I am completely addicted. The storyline for this book absolutely blew me away.
My goodness don't even get me started on the characters I would probably rant on for pages and pages about how much I absolutely love them I don't know if I can wait for the next book to come out we'll obviously I'm and I don't have a choice but I'm going to lose my mind before the next book comes out. I am addicted to this series I'm pretty sure I'm going to be addicted to this author they are for sure going to become a no need to ask just buy button for me. This book is so swoon worthy.
My goodness don't even get me started on the characters I would probably rant on for pages and pages about how much I absolutely love them I don't know if I can wait for the next book to come out we'll obviously I'm and I don't have a choice but I'm going to lose my mind before the next book comes out. I am addicted to this series I'm pretty sure I'm going to be addicted to this author they are for sure going to become a no need to ask just buy button for me. This book is so swoon worthy.
June 16, 2025
I loved this debut novel! Ayo quits his job after his cousin refuses to promote him. He applies for and gets a job with a new security company that is competing for a contract with his cousins Task Force. Ethan, a wolf shifter, is the head of the company. The company also includes a vampire and other shifters. They are trying to track down a serial killer who has been targeting members of Ayo’s coven. Ethan and Ayo are so sweet together. Ethan is a bit on the grumpy, protective side and Ayo is a ray of sunshine beloved by everyone (well almost everyone….). It was a very quick read because I couldn’t put it down. The world building was great and now I can’t wait for the rest of the series. Great job by this new author! I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest opinion.
June 14, 2025
What a fabulous debut novel!
I adored Kyo and Ethan. Kyo is such a sweetheart, beloved by all the local supes, and Ethan is the Alpha wolf, navigating life without a traditional pack but surrounded by his found family.
After leaving the SAS, they set up a security firm and hire Kyo as their local liaison. All the guys are fabulous side characters, and we definitely start to get to know them. I can't wait for their books!
The plot was fast-paced yet never rushed. There's enough romance and heat to remind us it's a romance, but also plenty of plot to keep me invested in discovering the murderer. While I did pick up on the breadcrumbs as to who and why, the actual method was slightly shocking!"
I adored Kyo and Ethan. Kyo is such a sweetheart, beloved by all the local supes, and Ethan is the Alpha wolf, navigating life without a traditional pack but surrounded by his found family.
After leaving the SAS, they set up a security firm and hire Kyo as their local liaison. All the guys are fabulous side characters, and we definitely start to get to know them. I can't wait for their books!
The plot was fast-paced yet never rushed. There's enough romance and heat to remind us it's a romance, but also plenty of plot to keep me invested in discovering the murderer. While I did pick up on the breadcrumbs as to who and why, the actual method was slightly shocking!"
June 16, 2025
Ayo felt that he was ready to do more. That is how he winds up working with Ethan, an alpha wolf shifter. Ayo is a sorcerer who had tried to work his way up in his coven. He wanted to help and the only place he could go was to a rival of his coven. This turned out to be good for him on many levels, including because Ethan is his fated mate. He also finds himself on a team that has his back and works with him to build his confidence and they care about him. There is a lot of that goes on in this story and the author does a good job of world building as they further the story. I am looking forward to more stories from the Soldati Security universe. This one set a good tone for the series.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2025
The characters in this book draw you in so quickly with their grumpy and smiling charm. We meet our alpha, Ethan, who's your typical standoffish and broody type—but the moment he meets Ayo, everything changes. Ayo is sorcerer with a sweet, determined, and impossible not to love.
Their chemistry is instant and electric, making their interactions a joy to read. On top of that, there’s a compelling mystery to solve, with witches being killed and danger lurking around every corner. The action is gripping, but there’s also plenty of humor and heart to balance it out.
One of my favorite parts is the found family aspect—it adds warmth and depth to the story. I can’t wait to read more from this world and spend more time with these wonderful characters!
Their chemistry is instant and electric, making their interactions a joy to read. On top of that, there’s a compelling mystery to solve, with witches being killed and danger lurking around every corner. The action is gripping, but there’s also plenty of humor and heart to balance it out.
One of my favorite parts is the found family aspect—it adds warmth and depth to the story. I can’t wait to read more from this world and spend more time with these wonderful characters!
June 14, 2025
This book made me smile. Lots
The story is about Ayo, a coven member that although loved by many, is treated like trash by his own blood and those married to the fam.
Ethan is the Alpha of a mixed found family wanting to establish themselves in an area split. Due to bias and species, each sup part of the town remain seperate.
All the sups adore Ayo, as regardless of being part of the coven, he treats everybody fairly, keeping secrets hes been made aware of, earning everyones trust and love.
I adored the team, and really want Jets story
The author made it clear fairly on who the bad guys were, but subtly.
The story is about Ayo, a coven member that although loved by many, is treated like trash by his own blood and those married to the fam.
Ethan is the Alpha of a mixed found family wanting to establish themselves in an area split. Due to bias and species, each sup part of the town remain seperate.
All the sups adore Ayo, as regardless of being part of the coven, he treats everybody fairly, keeping secrets hes been made aware of, earning everyones trust and love.
I adored the team, and really want Jets story
The author made it clear fairly on who the bad guys were, but subtly.
June 16, 2025
Hot adventure! Veteran Ethan is finding out it's not easy setting up his own security firm. Then he adds an additional challenge by hiring Ayo the cousin of his biggest rival. Ayo, understands the risk of working for his cousin's rival, but he feels it's the best path to finding the serial killer. He is gratly attracted to Ethan his bass and his magic is a little tempermetal, but he knows he is ready. The mystery is outstanding, the process is adventurous with just the right amount of danger and Ethan and Ayo are totally hot. Great cover art! Great supportive team, tantalizing world building. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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