The Reckoning

Bloodlore #2

by Megan Crane

Life among the pack isn’t easy for a rebellious woman fated to be the wolf king’s mate in an apocalyptically thrilling paranormal romance from USA Today bestselling author Megan Crane.

On a full-moon night, fate takes what it wants. That’s you, Maddox Hemming.

It was known before I was born what destiny had in store. It’s in my blood. I am the fated mate of Ty Ceridwen. The alpha and king of the Western Wolves. The bane of my existence. And whether in skin or fur, the love of my life.

He wants the ritual that will bind us forever. All I want is more time—but unfortunately that’s running out. Ty needs me in line for what’s coming.

The Wolf Moon is rising, and if the gruesome sacrifices in the woods are any indication, an ancient foe has Vinča, the goddess of filth and death, who is driven to wipe out the world as we know it.

Not to mention my mated destiny with Ty.

Defeating Vinča would certainly make for a happy ending…if we can just survive long enough to see it come true.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Audiobook

360 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2026

About the author

USA Today bestselling, multi-award-nominated, and critically-acclaimed author Megan Crane has written more than 150 books and shows no sign of slowing down. She publishes contemporary romance and paranormal romance as Megan Crane (and briefly M.M. Crane) with an extensive backlist of women’s fiction, rom-coms, chick lit, and young adult novels—among other things. She’s also won a large and loyal fanbase as Caitlin Crews with Harlequin Presents, Harlequin Dare, Harlequin Historical, and contemporary cowboy books. And for Midwestern small town coziness, found families, romance, and some paranormal scariness thrown in, Megan partners with Nicole Helm to publish as Hazel Beck.

Megan has a Masters and Ph.D. in English Literature, has taught creative writing classes in places like UCLA Extension’s prestigious Writers’ Program, and is always available to give workshops (or her opinion). She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her comic book artist husband, though, at any given time, she is likely to either be huddled in a coffee shop somewhere or off traveling the world. Preferably both.

You can find out more than you ever wanted to know about her at www.megancrane.com

Reviews

[BookishKB]

✨🌕 The Reckoning 🌕✨

I’ll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.

🐺 What to Expect
• Fated mates
• Werewolf romance
• Rebellious FMC
• Wolf king MMC
• Post-apocalyptic
• Pack politics
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: April 21, 2026
📝 Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank You Netgalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Megan Crane for the ALC in exchange for my honest review. I really liked how this book started out and how Ty's character even though he is the Werewolf king did not act all Macho and gross to Maddox. Even though they became fated while she was young, he gave her freedom to finish school and come to him when ready. It did take me a hot minute to realize we was following a new character from the first book. I do wish the narrator changed as well. I didn't hate the narrator it just made me think of Ariel over Maddox. It was fun this took place over the holidays, and they celebrated in their own way. I do feel the apocalypse aspect of this storyline is a bit of a throwaway story plot and could have been left out completely.
Now available on KU with audio- my favorite!

[Kryztle | kryztlereads · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 3.5 | 🌶️ 3

Book 2 of the Bloodlore Series.
I recommend reading the first book first, but you could read this as a standalone.

Maddox and Ty are mated but she keeps putting off committing. She wants to move past the archaic way the pack does things and goes to college to elevate her pack. She moved into a cottage at Winter’s house, to give herself some space. She grows closer to the girls, Winter & Savi.

I enjoyed the story and I can’t wait for the next book.

[Kristy aka Brooksie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maddox Hemming is a rare female-born werewolf who was immediately claimed by the pack alpha, King Ty Ceridwen, when she was presented to him by her mother at just 13. When she was ready to mate, he left the choice up to her as to when she would be ready. He had no interest in breeding with a child, and once she made up her mind when their bond would be officially claimed, he would wait. He just didn't realize how long she would make him wait. Well, after she graduated from college, an apocalypse that knocked the world back to before cell phones and the internet were a thing. Her college experience did help the pack, though, so he continued to wait (impatiently). 

It's not that she didn't want to secure their bond. She loved and wanted that with him, but she was waiting for the right time for her. With the upcoming pack gathering and her not officially claiming her as his queen, the other packs looked down on her and gave Ty grief. On top of that, Maddox has been finding grotesque, small-animal sacrifices left for her and her neighbor friends to find, and she is sure someone or something has been stalking her. People are wary of an ancient enemy they once defeated making a comeback, and these instances have her written all over them. Maddox has a lot on her plate, and she hopes that her fated mate can hold on a bit longer while she deals with everything going on. 

Expectations:

Wolf Pack Life
Old Magic
Vampires
All Sorts of Various Creatures
Mystrious Sacrifices
Pack Sabotage
Oracle Predictions
Spicy Love Scenes

This fast-paced paranormal fantasy kept it moving and interesting. There was some added lore that was a bit different than what you normally read about for these magical beasts, which I enjoyed. With a single narrator, this book was voiced by Amelie Griffin. I think she did a good job with all the different voices of the characters. If you like books with various magical creatures and a spicy romance, check this one out.

I received an advanced audiobook to listen to via NewGalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio in exchange for an honest review

[Amanda Olson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review of The Reckoning by Megan Crane, narrated by Amelie Griffin.

The Reckoning is told in single POV from Maddox's perspective through the entire story.

Vibes: Romantasy, Shifters and Magical Beings, Found Family, Fated Mate
My Rating: 3 Stars
Plot: 3 Stars
Characters: 3 Stars
Spice: 3 Stars

Truthfully I loved and hated this book all at once, which probably means it will stick with me for a while. In The Reckoning we really get to know Maddox and Ty. Both shifters, both hold familial and sociatal expectations within their pack and world.

The hate I have for the story comes with how very scattered the story felt at times, how the pace would go from sipping tea and conversational to almost whiplash fast with a plot twist and change. Although I do see repeatedly conversation about how this book is to be an interconnected standalone, I would truthfully treat it as book 2 and not a standalone because I genuinely was lost with elements that apparently took place or had meaning in book one.

The love for this book, however, comes with the most basic question being asked throughout the book - are our pack actions being taken purely because that was how it was done in the past (historically) or because the actions are truly the best for our people, our pack?

The Reckoning brings us into a world so very similar to our own with family and society demanding things from us while we make decisions for today. The Fated Mate and what that really means is questioned in this book as well as the "value" or importance of titles and royalty within various branches of leadership. And a Death Goddess that just won't freaking die!

I do personally want to go back and read Bloodlore Book 1 then re-read The Reckoning as I bet it will bring so much more into perspective.

Audio Review - Amelie Griffin's performance seemed off in parts. I don't know if it was the audio itself, but multiple times the sections sounded off or like they were re-recorded at a different pitch.

[Marisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up...

The Reckoning is told entirely from Maddox Hemming’s perspective, giving readers an intimate look into the mind of a rare female-born werewolf. Claimed at thirteen by her pack alpha, King Ty Ceridwen, Maddox grows up knowing their bond is inevitable, but Ty refuses to claim her until she’s ready. However, he never anticipated how long she would make him wait...

The story balances romantic tension with suspenseful paranormal elements. Maddox and Ty’s relationship is simmering, filled with unspoken desire, forbidden passion, and the challenges of pack politics. Meanwhile, Maddox faces grotesque animal sacrifices, mysterious stalkers, and the looming threat of an ancient enemy returning. Pack dynamics, societal expectations, and prophetic visions add layers of intrigue to the story, keeping the pace fast and unpredictable.

Tbh I loved and had mixed feelings about this book. I liked getting to know Maddox and Ty, both shifters carrying heavy familial and societal expectations, while navigating love, loyalty, and danger. Decent take on the issues they faced.

That said, the story sometimes felt a little all over the place. The pacing would shift abruptly at times, which threw me... While the book is marketed as a standalone, I would honestly treat it as Book 2, I think elements from Book 1 influenced key events, which left me a little confused at times.

After finishing, I want to go back and read Bloodlore Book 1, then re-read The Reckoning, as I’m confident the context will make the story better. For fans of wolf packs, old magic, vampires, mysterious sacrifices, and fated mates, this book delivers a mix of suspense, romance, and fantastical intrigue... albeit, its uneven pacing may challenge some readers.

[Cinnamon&Pine · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Reckoning is the second in a series of interconnected stand-alone paranormal romantasies and focuses on Maddox, a werewolf and the unclaimed fated mate of the werewolf king.

The story works best when it pushes against expectations. Maddox continues to resist the role of a traditional werewolf queen and instead starts re-examining her own assumptions. Her partnership with her fated mate deepens beyond the purely emotional, giving their relationship more weight than a simple destiny-driven pairing.

The broader plot pulls in returning characters: the human oracle Winter, her vampire king, and the sorceress Savi as the death goddess rises again and the solstice approaches. While the mythology and overarching threat remain engaging, the pacing drags in the middle, where the story loses momentum before recovering toward the end.

There are still moments of genuine fun-imagining a wolf shifter in dachshund pajamas absolutely made my day-and the book successfully maintains interest in the larger series. I’m particularly hoping the next installment will focus on Savi, especially since the death goddess appears to be anything but easy to kill.

If you like:
• interconnected stand-alone paranormal romantasy
• fated mates with some resistance to destiny
• recurring side characters and a continuing overarching plot


Not for you if:
• you feel like the death goddess is presumed finally defeated, only to rise again and again in the same Oregon wilderness
• you are not into detailed werewolf stuff

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) solid fun, but the middle section could have been tighter.

[Brin · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐ I was so excited to dive back into Megan Crane’s post-apocalyptic world after loving the first book that followed Winter, a human surviver of the Reveal.

The Reckoning shifts focus to Maddox, the werewolf fated to the Alpha King, Ty. Maddox has spent years avoiding their bond, and that tension sets the stage for a story heavy with emotion, lore, and destiny.

This sequel goes deeper into werewolf culture, exploring their rituals, history, and the complicated ties between pack members which was interesting but added more world building just when you start to think you understand the world.

I enjoyed seeing more of the friendship amongst the women living on Winter’s property and the relationship between Maddox and Ty deepen and solidify into a true partnership. The second rise of Vinca, the death goddess the group defeated once before was a little disappointing. I would rather have seen this team take on a new threat.

While I loved revisiting these characters, the pacing felt off this time. Some sections lingered too long, while more essential scenes flew by so quickly I had to reread to make sure I hadn't missed something. The emotional depth and worldbuilding are still captivating, but the story lost a bit of the magic that made me fall in love with the first book.

The core of what I love about this series including its strong, complex characters and unique world remains compelling. The Reckoning might not have hit quite as hard as The Reveal, but I'm eager to see where this series heads next. Fingers crossed the next one gives us Savi's story!

[PP's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Reckoning by Megan Crane has one of my favorite tropes in paranormal romance and that is fated mate! Maddox and Ty are all fireworks and explosions. This book has a very detailed and complicated plot that deals with werewolf politics and a death goddess who refuses to die. It was sometimes slow burn where we see Maddox and Ty's dynamics playing out. Sometimes it was fast paced and action packed where other supernatural fractions come together for their existence. I love how strong and unshakable Maddox is in front of the challenges and obviously I am obsessed with Ty.

🖤 interconnected standalone
🖤 werewolf romance
🖤 fated mate
🖤 other supernatural entities like vampire and sorceress
🖤 romantic suspense

Ty Ceridwen. The leader of our pack and the Rix of the Western Wolves. Which is an old way of saying he’s the king. He’s also the bane of my existence. Not to mention, the love of my life.

Maddox Hemming knows Ty is her fated mate. He is hundred-year-old and she was born as his queen. The community expects her to accept the role and start having his babies but she dares to think differently. And luckily, Ty believes in her. She went to college and now she plays an important role in the businesses run by their pack that is essential for their survival. I love how supportive Ty is and how he pushes against old ideas to help her glow. But their time is running out and their enemy aka the death Goddess is planning something big.

Maddox didnt exactly reject Ty. Their connection is at an otherworldly and animalistic level and she always gives in to their fierce passion but she wanted to become his queen at her own terms. The tension was high. So much was at stake. But I feel she chose to be claimed by Ty at the right moment. She showed everyone that she is the worthy partner of the greatest alpha the werewolves have ever seen. She stood by him and encouraged him to break old ideas and rules because it will ensure the werewolves become the strongest. He is so powerful and so dominating and he knew how fierce Maddox is.

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily

[Lindy Dierks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love that each books follows one of the main female characters in the first story. This is Maddox and Ty’s story! I LOVED Maddox in the first book. This book delivered! I really enjoyed digging deeper into the werewolves and their politics. We learn more about what Maddox calls “Wolf week” and deep dive into their culture. This new world that has been created in this book where Monsters are released into our ordinary world is a lot of fun!

Maddox has always wanted to be with Ty but she didn’t want to honor their bond yet. She doesn’t want to just be the submissive wife raising cubs. I appreciate that Ty honors this! I adore him! I do wish we had his POV. That is the only thing I would change about this book. I loved that we see some bonding time with Winter and Ariel. They are even becoming gasp friends. Lots of good twists and turns in this book. Just when you think the danger is over, it comes roaring back again. There was a fair amount of tension and suspense some mystery.Megan Crane is my go to for well written books that keep me engaged from start to finish. I honestly haven’t read a book of hers that I didn’t love. Overall, I’m all in on this series. I can’t wait for the next one! I received this book from Montlake and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Fiona · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

This is one of those reads where the enjoyment curve goes up the longer you stick with it. The book absolutely improved as it went, but it made me work for it. The first half leans hard into fated-mate resistance and circular internal monologuing, and while Maddox’s initial self-awareness was refreshing, her years-long “rebellion” mostly read as avoidance rather than agency.

Once she finally stops fighting the bond, the story snaps into focus. Ty fully embraces his ruthless wolf king era, the pack politics and battles get genuinely entertaining, and the stakes finally feel worthy of the apocalypse-adjacent setup. The romance lands best in the quieter moments - the private pledge, the claim - where choice finally overtakes destiny. I loved Ty’s feral decisiveness and the escalation of power, but the pacing is uneven and some emotional beats feel rushed right when they should hit hardest. Overall, there were some strong moments, elevated by a savage MMC and improved momentum in the back half, but held back by a slow, repetitive build and an FMC arc that takes too long to actually move. Enjoyable and entertaining, just not effortless.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Marylovesreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5 rounded up)

I always enjoy a good werewolf story, so I was really looking forward to this one. Although it’s the second in a series, it works well as a standalone since the first book focuses on different main characters.

This story follows Maddox and Ty. Maddox is the fated mate to Ty, the Alpha of her pack, but she’s been reluctant to complete the mating bond. Instead, she wants to finish university and find her own purpose outside of pack expectations. Ty, to his credit, is patient and understanding of her choices.

A large portion of the story focuses on the consequences of Maddox resisting tradition. She’s treated poorly by the pack—especially the other women, including members of her own family—which creates a lot of emotional tension. However, when she finally comes into her own midway through the story, the shift in the pack’s attitude felt quite sudden and not as fully developed as it could have been.

Overall, this is a quick, easy read that will appeal to readers who enjoy werewolf romances and don’t mind a lighter level of depth. Those looking for more character development and a more gradual emotional arc may find it lacking.

Thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC.

[Ashley - The Tattered Page · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Netgalley

📖 𝐸-𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌📖

𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝑅𝑒𝒸𝓀𝑜𝓃𝒾𝓃𝑔 ʙʏ ᴍᴇɢᴀɴ ᴄʀᴀɴᴇ

𝑅𝒶𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔: 🥀🥀🥀 ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ 𝟻 ᴇɴᴄʜᴀɴᴛᴇᴅ ʀᴏsᴇs

𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝑒 𝑅𝒶𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔: 🌶🌶 ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ 𝟻

✨ 𝐻𝑜𝑜𝓀✨

ʙᴏᴜɴᴅ ʙʏ ᴅᴇsᴛɪɴʏ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʟғ ᴋɪɴɢ sʜᴇ ʙᴏᴛʜ ʟᴏᴠᴇs ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴇsɪsᴛs, ᴍᴀᴅᴅᴏx ᴍᴜsᴛ ᴇᴍʙʀᴀᴄᴇ ʜᴇʀ ғᴀᴛᴇ ᴀs ᴀɴ ᴀɴᴄɪᴇɴᴛ ᴇᴠɪʟ ʀɪsᴇs—ᴛʜʀᴇᴀᴛᴇɴɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ʙᴇғᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ʙᴏɴᴅ ɪs ғᴜʟʟʏ sᴇᴀʟᴇᴅ.

𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌:

ʜᴜɢᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴏɴᴛʟᴀᴋᴇ ғᴏʀ ɢɪғᴛɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜɪs ᴀʀᴄ!

“ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴍᴀᴛᴇs… ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴇɴᴅ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ.”

ᴛʜɪs ᴏɴᴇ ɪs ɪɴᴛᴇɴsᴇ, ᴘʀɪᴍᴀʟ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴘᴀᴄᴋᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛᴇɴsɪᴏɴ. ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴜsʜ-ᴘᴜʟʟ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴍᴀᴅᴅᴏx ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʏ ɪs ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴛʜɪɴɢ—ғᴀᴛᴇ ᴠs ғʀᴇᴇ ᴡɪʟʟ, ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴠs ʀᴇsɪsᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ. ᴀᴅᴅ ɪɴ ᴀᴘᴏᴄᴀʟʏᴘᴛɪᴄ sᴛᴀᴋᴇs ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴀʀᴋ ᴍʏᴛʜᴏʟᴏɢʏ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪᴛ’s ɴᴏɴsᴛᴏᴘ. ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʟᴇᴀɴs ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʀᴀᴡ, ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴇᴅɢᴇ, ᴍᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ғᴇᴇʟ ᴜʀɢᴇɴᴛ ᴀɴᴅ ғᴇʀᴀʟ.

𝒯𝓇𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓈 & 𝒱𝒾𝒷𝑒𝓈:
✨ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴍᴀᴛᴇs
🐺 ᴀʟᴘʜᴀ ᴋɪɴɢ
✨ ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs-ᴛᴏ-ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs ᴇɴᴇʀɢʏ
🐺 ᴘᴀʀᴀɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ᴀᴘᴏᴄᴀʟʏᴘsᴇ
✨ ᴅᴇsᴛɪɴʏ ᴠs ᴄʜᴏɪᴄᴇ
🐺 ᴀɴɢsᴛʏ, ᴘʀɪᴍᴀʟ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
✨ ᴡᴇʀᴇᴡᴏʟғ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
🐺 ᴡᴏʟғ ᴋɪɴɢ ᴍᴍᴄ x ʀᴇʙᴇʟʟɪᴏᴜs ғᴍᴄ
✨ ᴘᴏsᴛ-ᴀᴘᴏᴄᴀʟʏᴘᴛɪᴄ
🐺 ᴘᴀᴄᴋ ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄs

𝐹𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓁 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝒹𝒾𝒸𝓉:
ɪɴᴛᴇɴsᴇ, ᴀɴɢsᴛʏ, ᴀɴᴅ ғᴀᴛᴇ-ᴅʀɪᴠᴇɴ—ᴘᴇʀғᴇᴄᴛ ғᴏʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs ᴏғ ᴘʀɪᴍᴀʟ, ʜɪɢʜ-sᴛᴀᴋᴇs ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ.

ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ!
𝒜𝓈𝒽𝓁𝑒𝓎
ʙᴏᴏᴋsᴛᴀɢʀᴀᴍ: @ᴛʜᴇᴛᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅᴘᴀɢᴇ

[Holli · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Reckoning picks up where The Reveal left off. The focus on this book is on Maddox, the werewolf who is the fated mate to Ty, who is the pack alpha and regional king of the werewolves. There is a lot less romance in this book than in The Reveal because Maddox and Ty have already been in a relationship for many years, although Maddox has not allowed herself to be formally "claimed" in a mating ceremony, which leads to friction between Maddox and Ty as well as with the rest of the pack.

Maddox must navigate the pack dynamics, a gathering of all the packs in North America, her ascension to queen status, and interpersonal relationships at Winter's homestead. And in the middle of this come troubling signs that the death goddess may not be quite as vanquished as everyone thought.

I really enjoyed the continuation of this story, and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next in this world. I would have liked this story to be more romance, but the adventure and mystery were more than enough to keep me interested until the ultimate resolution.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC!

[tinynightingales · Rating 3 out of 5]

For fans of: Zodiac Academy

This has it all: Zombies, Warewolves, Vampires, Ghosts, Witches, Curses, Opium/Addiction, Demons, Apocalypse, Fated Mates, Forced Proximity, Found Family.

Like I said for The Reveal, the issues with the writing are very glaring. It has plot holes, over-exposition, repetitive internal monologue, and is millennial coded to a fault. This isn't supposed to be a ground break plot, it exists to be predictable and fun for the reader. I am looking forward to book 3. The romance in this book was perfection. It's a good time.

The narrator for this book is incredible and I am going to look for more of her work in the future, Truly amazing work.

I received this eBook an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, Megan Crane, and Brilliance Audio for the opportunity to review this book. This review has been posted across my socials under the username @tinynightingales, check out my GoodReads profile https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/6...
my bookstagram account https://www.instagram.com/tinynightin...
and booktok https://www.tiktok.com/@tinynightinga...

[Midnight Tails and Chapters · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is marketed as an interconnected standalone, but let me save some confusion: you absolutely need book one first. There are too many references, returning characters, and past events thrown around like I should already know everyone at the party.

The audiobook is single narrated by Amelie Griffith, who does a strong job differentiating voices and bringing Maddox’s intelligence and sass to life. For a solo performance, she handled the cast impressively, though I still think this story would have thrived in duet.

The real issue is pacing. This book is far too long for the plot it’s telling. It lingers on minor moments for chapters, then speed-runs scenes that should carry the biggest emotional punch. I had to crank the speed just to stay focused, and reading should not feel like cardio.

That said, there’s good stuff here: wolf shifter mate-bond angst, urban paranormal chaos, found family, and Ty being deliciously feral when it counts. A ruthless edit could have turned this into a very solid four-star listen

[Isabell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an engaging sequel that shifts focus to werewolf pack politics and personal drama, with a significant increase in steam compared to the first book.
The first half effectively explores Maddox resisting her fate and the pack's demands. Her connection with Ty was good throughout even when she was pushing back against their fate and I really liked their dynamics and the support he showed to here. The tension throughout is well-maintained through the looming threat of Vinca’s followers and a mysterious, unseen danger To Maddox..

The story’s biggest stumble imo involves Winter’s dreams. Because they, and one in particular, are largely ignored or forgotten by the characters, their dismissal feels like a plot hole. Had they been addressed, the "surprise" betrayal at the climax would have felt earned rather than avoidable.

If Savi leads the third book, the series needs a new antagonist. Reviving Vinca again would feel repetitive and diminish the stakes; I feel a fresh villain is necessary to keep the narrative evolving.

[Sabrina Koch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This continuous from The Reveal (Bloodlore Book 1) is from Maddox's point of view.

With life growing up in the pack since before the reveal in the same small town has always been different. It doesn't help that once it was time Maddox's is destined to be with the Alpha of her pack who has been basically wolf king for 100 years. She's not like the other wolves who will just lay down be submissive to him. She went off to college and lives away from the pack.

After the fight and everything with Halloween. Things seem to somewhat get back to normal as it can be. But someone is leaving kills with no real scent to them near Maddox and the others. She also feels like she's being stalked while walking back to the Den. Could they have not truly killed off the Goddess of Death like they thought. Is she still close to arriving again??

This is a great sequel and truly hope for more as I still feel this can be continued in other ways. To have a home for others as they pass through and what becomes of Auggie?

Thank you netgalley for allowing me to listen to this audiobook.

[Stephanie White · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, our main girl is the mate of the Alpha mate - she has been prophesied for a long time, the alpha is over 100 years old - and she was given to him at the age of 13 - but he was like "I don't want to force you to be my mate".

She lives her life, going to college, helping to run the pact, not living in the den, but things are getting tense because he wants to be the King of the wolves, and his mate isn't doing what he wants.

She is conflicted, because I don't think she is ready to sit down and have babies - it isn't her thing - she is a wolf feminist :) lol. And she has some great friends, a sorceress, an oracle that is the mate of the vampire leader, and they just took down a big bad guy in the first book.

I enjoyed the story - hearing it from her point of view - she wasn't necessarily against having children, and her and the alpha did have a sexual relationship, but she wasn't ready to have children.

Kept me on the edge of my seat to see how it would end up - and who the bad guy was - although I always had a bad feeling about them :)

[Jude · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Reckoning is the second book in the Bloodlore series. It’s a paranormal enemies-to-lovers romance that centres around Maddox and her relationship with the werewolf king. For me personally, this one didn’t hit, but I do believe there are definitely readers who would enjoy this.

First off what I believe was done right. The world-building was extremely detailed; it didn’t feel like a cookie-cutter werewolf story. There was a plethora of other supernatural characters within this world that had their own dynamics and a whole internal hierarchical structure to the wolves that I thought was different from other books I have read. The dialogue was entertaining enough and even though it didn’t click for me, I could still get through it easily.

Besides personal preferences, I do believe there are some things that I believe could be improved upon. The pacing just was not working, the story would linger in some parts and then fly by others. I also genuinely could not get into the whole werewolf mate bonding ritual storyline I have read other paranormal romance, but this one was a bit too much for me. The characters were also falling flat for me and felt like copy and paste enemies to lovers mcs.

Overall, while this book wasn’t a personal favourite, enjoyers of detailed paranormal romance and easily digestible enemies to lovers story’s might find something of value here.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

For some reason, I thought this second book was continuing Winter and Ariel’s story. My excuse is that I don’t always read blurbs. I liked book one, so naturally I just dove into book two.

Instead, The Reckoning follows Maddox and Ty, but we still see a lot of Winter, Ariel, and Savi, and I have no complaints. Maddox and Ty have a complicated relationship, and while I don’t normally like it when one of the main characters resists the other, I thought the author handled it in such a way that I can’t imagine it being written any differently. I really liked how their relationship played out.

This is a unique series, and it held my attention. I’m even more excited for the next book. I’m going to guess that it’ll be Savi’s story. Her mysterious marriage has me intrigued, and I have no idea what to expect.

[Skylar Keeton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Review
The Reckoning by Megan Crane
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Montlake for providing this book for review purposes via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The Reckoning is the second in a series of interconnected stand-alone paranormal romantasies which means you don't necessarily need to read the other books but to have a little bit more info on character and background it would probably be a good idea!!
This book takes use more into werewolf culture and lore, it goes into a lot more detail about pack ties and Rituals, as well as their history.
I loved reading about Ty and Maddox's history and reading about their growing relationship.
I can't wait to read about where the author takes the story next!
#TheReckoning #NetGalley

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the Bloodlore series, but the books can be read as standalone stories, as each focuses on different characters. Maddox Hemming has always known she is the fated mate of wolf king, Ty Ceridwen. She has resisted doing the final ritual that will bind them forever, but knows time may be running out. They defeated Vinca, an ancient goddess, months ago, but she appears to be rising again.

I loved the first book in the series and am super excited to be back in the characters' post-apocalyptic world. Maddox is a relatable heroine who just wants a chance to live her life before settling into a domestic, traditional role. I love her friendship with Winter and the found family bonds she, Ty, Winter, Ariel, and Savi form.

I enjoyed the romance between Maddox and Ty, but I wish we'd seen more of how they got together. Their relationship is already established at the start of the book, and I felt like we missed the beginning of their story.

This series feels similar to the Mercy Thompson series, as both focus on the interconnections between fae, vampires, werewolves, and humans. I adore the Mercy Thompson series, and this series is becoming a new favourite. I really hope the author continues it and tells Savi's story next. I highly recommend reading The Reveal first and then this one so you can get fully immersed in the world.

[Joannie L · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed going back into the Bloodlore world with The Reckoning. This time, the story centers on Maddox and Ty, and their dynamic definitely carries the book. Maddox is so set on keeping her independence, even while being tied to someone as powerful and intense as Ty, which made their relationship feel constantly on edge.

For me, the romance was definitely front and center, sometimes even more than the bigger plot, but if you’re someone who loves intense, complicated relationships in a dark fantasy setting, that’s honestly part of the appeal.

Overall, it’s a solid read if you enjoy fated mates, broody alpha heroes, and high emotional tension. It definitely kept me hooked and wanting to see where the story goes next 🔥

[Lexa K · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars rounded up.

At first I struggled with this one and the change of POV from Winter to Maddox, believing it to be a direct sequel whereas I believe they are intended to be able to be read as standalones. I wouldn't recommend doing this as I feel you need to have read The Reveal to understand and enjoy major plotpoints and characters going forward.

This book felt more detailed than the first, which I appreciated. I enjoyed the getting to see more of Ty and the wolf pack and seeing how the story between Maddox and Ty developed throughout.

I'm guessing the next book will be from Savi's perspective, and I'm intrigued to know more about her secrets.

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book via Netgalley.

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the ending you thought you had isn’t sticking, then you just have to figure out why and try again! Our couple this time are our wolves King and Queen, and they are determined to do things their way, though, they didn’t always realize they agreed. One thing is sure, they have wild heat and no problem acting on it. Another thing that is positive, as things progress, is they have been in sync for a while, they just needed time to be in the right place to act on it. That big bad, somehow, someway, causing issues again. Some things seem fairly obvious on that front, but what we don’t know is the how and why, and that takes us almost to the very end. We aren’t quite done yet, we still have Savi’s story, and something tells me it will be just as epic!!!

[thisfoxreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

This was such an enjoyable audiobook! I will admit that I did not read book 1 prior to this, which probably would have helped with some context, BUT you can totally read this as a standalone.

The story is told from Maddox’s pov and follows her through her through navigating werewolf politics and societal expectations.
And of course there’s an evil death goddess who decides it’s time to rise from her imprisonment.

I truly loved all of the characters in this book! The pacing was a bit off for me - some bits fast, others slow. But I’ll definitely be coming back for more!

🎧Rhe narrator did a great job of embodying the characters and I feel that’s part of what kept me hooked

✨Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review

[Marissa Pekurny · Rating 5 out of 5]

omg i loved this book just as much as the first one! i couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end. maddox was honestly my fav and i loved how she knew what she wanted and didn’t let anyone tell her how to live or what she should be doing. i loved ty and how he supported her even though he was reluctant to do so. winter and savi were great as always and im so glad they were in this book as well as ariel. the twists that happened were wild and i didn’t see that last one coming. the ending was amazing and perfect and i am so glad for maddox. thank you so much for the early copy of this book, i definitely recommend!!

[Chelsea Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Reckoning by Megan Crane is a dark, gripping sequel that raises the stakes for the Bloodlore series. The tension between Maddox and the wolf king Ty is electric, and the looming threat of the goddess Vinča adds a genuine sense of dread.

Pros:
Electric Romance: A fantastic "enemies-to-lovers" dynamic with deep emotional stakes.
Atmospheric: Excellent world-building that blends gritty dystopia with supernatural lore.

Cons:
Required Reading: You definitely need to read The Reveal first to understand the complex politics.
Fated Mate Tropes: The "mate bond" occasionally moves a bit fast for some character arcs.

A thrilling, steamy pick for fans of dark shifter romance.

[Georgia Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I truly thought this book was going to be a DNF because it seems I really need to read the first book but it was a read where the enjoyment increased the longer you stuck with it. The book improved as I read it and it definitely made me work for it.

The romance lands the best in the little moments, the private pledge, the claim, where choice overtakes destiny, I absolutely adored Ty’s feral decisiveness, but rhetorical pacing was uneven and some emotional parts felt rushed where it should have hit me the hardest.

You truly need to read the first book to understand the politics of this book but still good!