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Willow Lake Pack #2
Stubborn as a Shadow
This is the second book in the new
Willow Lake Pack
series, because the quirky supernatural small town of Willow Lake
needs
more happily-ever-afters! This book is about Morgan and Nelson! Finally, right? Poor Morgan has been missing long enough. It is time for our shadow jumper to find his unicorn.
Blurb to come.
*This book is expected to release earlier than it is currently shown.*
This series is a fun paranormal romance spin-off from the Willow Lake Supernaturals series. You'll find a lot of familiar characters showing up across the series, but you do not need to read that series before diving into this one. If you are curious about what happens in Willow Lake Supernaturals , you can start with Hellhounds Never Lie (Book 1).
Blurb to come.
*This book is expected to release earlier than it is currently shown.*
This series is a fun paranormal romance spin-off from the Willow Lake Supernaturals series. You'll find a lot of familiar characters showing up across the series, but you do not need to read that series before diving into this one. If you are curious about what happens in Willow Lake Supernaturals , you can start with Hellhounds Never Lie (Book 1).
- GenresM M RomanceRomance
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2026
About the author
Lori Ames
14 books140 followersWhen Lori was in elementary school, she wrote a very compelling story about a girl with a prickly personality who turned into a rose. (Sounds amazing, right?) Then she discovered romances in her teens and, well, she knew she wanted to write romances. It took her a little longer to find MM romances, but once she did, she was addicted. She lives in a small town in Alberta with her husband and an elderly black cat who might be a familiar.
Lori Ames writes MM romance with touch of magic!
Lori Ames writes MM romance with touch of magic!
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Here's "Stubborn as a Shadow" by Lori Ames. It's the second novel in her Willow Lake Pack series, which is a spin-off of the Willow Lake Supernaturals series.
["Rainbows and darkness don't belong together, but fate has other ideas.
People use the word unicorn to describe the rarest of the rare. The thing that is more myth than reality. The thing that makes you question if it even existed.
Yeah.
Nelson knows firsthand how apt that metaphor is, because finding an abducted unicorn is about as easy as tracking down rocking-horse crap. After months of searching, all he’s found is failure. Every time he closes his eyes he imagines the poor man—Morgan—fading away somewhere, unable to escape. And that’s better than magically enhanced caffeine at keeping him awake at night.
So, when Nelson agrees to do a side job for someone at the Supernatural Council, the last person he expects to find is Morgan. But here he is at a black magic market, dressed up like a stand in for a B movie about evil witches, and Nelson knows he has to get him back to the safety of Willow Lake.
If only Morgan would listen to him.
Morgan’s dedicated his life to finding out what happened to his parents. Although that hunt has gotten people killed in the past, he can’t stop. But he is open to help. And who could better than a deliciously hot shadow jumper? Particularly when Nelson is all heroic and stuff…
Hurrah for heroes. Hmm… Maybe Morgan should try to seduce him. Because Nelson really should be rewarded for his services and, more importantly, Morgan is dying—hopefully not literally—to see a smile on the grumpy grump’s cute face."]
And the official tags (because they're the best): ["very grump needs a bit of sunshine. Cuddling during a blizzard is mandatory. Unicorns are amazing. Some shadow jumpers will never blend into the background. What is going on? Who is Rudy Tada? Everyone should wear a cloak. (Seriously, they are awesome!) It’s hard to disguise a unicorn. Oh look, there is only one bed! Oh, crap, are there supernatural hunters here too? It sucks when things aren’t all rainbows and unicorns."]
I have been WAITING for Nelson's story for soooo long! SO long. I canNOT believe that our serious and dark little shadow is falling for a sunshiny unicorn! And how utterly prefect they are together! How the darkness makes the rainbow shine brighter and the sparkles is protected by/anchored by the shadows?! Beautiful.
These two were hilarious. Morgan was fucking hilarious. He was earnest and honest and a little naïve but sooo kind and sunshiney. He made Nelson smile and relax (and go over the top with protectiveness and anything to make his mate smile). Nelson needed Morgan to help him realize how happy he could be, how much Willow Lake had become a home, how much his friends had become a family. Morgan needed Nelson to help give him a home and a family, somewhere he could be himself, all shimmering and shimmying.
Honestly, I cannot wait for Teagan and Keegan. Though getting Carter and Eric's HEA next isn't all that bad. ;)
Trigger Warnings: violence, abduction and imprisonment, mental health concerns, murder, gun and shooting violence, serious injury due to gun shot wounds, and more.
#moodyasaminotaur #stubbornasashadow #shyasasasquatch #loriames #willowlakepack #willowlakepackseries #willowlakesupernaturals #willowlakesupernaturalsseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Rainbows and darkness don't belong together, but fate has other ideas.
People use the word unicorn to describe the rarest of the rare. The thing that is more myth than reality. The thing that makes you question if it even existed.
Yeah.
Nelson knows firsthand how apt that metaphor is, because finding an abducted unicorn is about as easy as tracking down rocking-horse crap. After months of searching, all he’s found is failure. Every time he closes his eyes he imagines the poor man—Morgan—fading away somewhere, unable to escape. And that’s better than magically enhanced caffeine at keeping him awake at night.
So, when Nelson agrees to do a side job for someone at the Supernatural Council, the last person he expects to find is Morgan. But here he is at a black magic market, dressed up like a stand in for a B movie about evil witches, and Nelson knows he has to get him back to the safety of Willow Lake.
If only Morgan would listen to him.
Morgan’s dedicated his life to finding out what happened to his parents. Although that hunt has gotten people killed in the past, he can’t stop. But he is open to help. And who could better than a deliciously hot shadow jumper? Particularly when Nelson is all heroic and stuff…
Hurrah for heroes. Hmm… Maybe Morgan should try to seduce him. Because Nelson really should be rewarded for his services and, more importantly, Morgan is dying—hopefully not literally—to see a smile on the grumpy grump’s cute face."]
And the official tags (because they're the best): ["very grump needs a bit of sunshine. Cuddling during a blizzard is mandatory. Unicorns are amazing. Some shadow jumpers will never blend into the background. What is going on? Who is Rudy Tada? Everyone should wear a cloak. (Seriously, they are awesome!) It’s hard to disguise a unicorn. Oh look, there is only one bed! Oh, crap, are there supernatural hunters here too? It sucks when things aren’t all rainbows and unicorns."]
I have been WAITING for Nelson's story for soooo long! SO long. I canNOT believe that our serious and dark little shadow is falling for a sunshiny unicorn! And how utterly prefect they are together! How the darkness makes the rainbow shine brighter and the sparkles is protected by/anchored by the shadows?! Beautiful.
These two were hilarious. Morgan was fucking hilarious. He was earnest and honest and a little naïve but sooo kind and sunshiney. He made Nelson smile and relax (and go over the top with protectiveness and anything to make his mate smile). Nelson needed Morgan to help him realize how happy he could be, how much Willow Lake had become a home, how much his friends had become a family. Morgan needed Nelson to help give him a home and a family, somewhere he could be himself, all shimmering and shimmying.
Honestly, I cannot wait for Teagan and Keegan. Though getting Carter and Eric's HEA next isn't all that bad. ;)
Trigger Warnings: violence, abduction and imprisonment, mental health concerns, murder, gun and shooting violence, serious injury due to gun shot wounds, and more.
#moodyasaminotaur #stubbornasashadow #shyasasasquatch #loriames #willowlakepack #willowlakepackseries #willowlakesupernaturals #willowlakesupernaturalsseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Review of advance copy received from Author
********** Contains Spoilers**********
I really enjoyed this book and I thought that it was a good addition to the Willow Lake Pack Series, which is a spin-off to Lori’s Willow Lake Supernaturals Series. I thought Morgan and Nelson were great together and I loved seeing Nelson be all protective of his unicorn. Morgan is such a rainbow packed sweetheart that needs to be protected at all costs as he’s a bit naive and wants the world to be filled with rainbows & sparkles, even though he’s seen some of the worst after he witnessed his uncle be m*rdered, then was abducted himself and spent months in a cage. At least he knows when people are lying to him as he gets itchy. At least he has his protective, grumpy, black loving shadow Nelson to love and protect him but I also liked seeing Morgan be protective of Nelson as well, even if it absolutely terrified Nelson when Morgan was in danger. Morgan does not make a good spy, as you can’t easily hide unicorns since as soon as they laugh bubbles pop out.
Luckily Nelson’s friend at the Supernatural Council Venus told him about the upcoming black magic market and to keep an eye out for Rudy Tada as he needs protecting, since it was Morgan’s alias and his cover was blown pretty much straight away. Morgan’s antics throughout this book made Nelson’s little smiles shine through just made me happy. All I can say is forced proximity, only one bed in a snowy cabin for the win. Nelson couldn’t deny Morgan & their bond for long, even though he was being stubborn about the whole thing. I loved being able to catch up with all the characters I’ve gotten to know and fall in love with during the Willow Lake Supernatural Series. I’m really looking forward to reading Carter & Eric’s book Shy as a Sasquatch when it’s released, as well as more books by Lori Ames in the future. I’d recommend this book, series, universe and author to others.
Please note that I purchased an early release copy of this book directly from Lori Ames website.
I really enjoyed this book and I thought that it was a good addition to the Willow Lake Pack Series, which is a spin-off to Lori’s Willow Lake Supernaturals Series. I thought Morgan and Nelson were great together and I loved seeing Nelson be all protective of his unicorn. Morgan is such a rainbow packed sweetheart that needs to be protected at all costs as he’s a bit naive and wants the world to be filled with rainbows & sparkles, even though he’s seen some of the worst after he witnessed his uncle be m*rdered, then was abducted himself and spent months in a cage. At least he knows when people are lying to him as he gets itchy. At least he has his protective, grumpy, black loving shadow Nelson to love and protect him but I also liked seeing Morgan be protective of Nelson as well, even if it absolutely terrified Nelson when Morgan was in danger. Morgan does not make a good spy, as you can’t easily hide unicorns since as soon as they laugh bubbles pop out.
Luckily Nelson’s friend at the Supernatural Council Venus told him about the upcoming black magic market and to keep an eye out for Rudy Tada as he needs protecting, since it was Morgan’s alias and his cover was blown pretty much straight away. Morgan’s antics throughout this book made Nelson’s little smiles shine through just made me happy. All I can say is forced proximity, only one bed in a snowy cabin for the win. Nelson couldn’t deny Morgan & their bond for long, even though he was being stubborn about the whole thing. I loved being able to catch up with all the characters I’ve gotten to know and fall in love with during the Willow Lake Supernatural Series. I’m really looking forward to reading Carter & Eric’s book Shy as a Sasquatch when it’s released, as well as more books by Lori Ames in the future. I’d recommend this book, series, universe and author to others.
Please note that I purchased an early release copy of this book directly from Lori Ames website.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
I love this author, who once again delivers a magnificent work. Lori AMES wields words to perfection, bringing us magic, feelings, emotions, and humor.
The story could be very dark—and in some ways, it is. Nelson isn’t exactly a fun character to begin with, and he tends to lose his humanity as despair takes hold of him. But Morgan, despite his situation and all the complications, is incredibly optimistic and terribly funny—he’s made for life in the chaos of Willow Lake. When it comes to “opposites attract,” Morgan and Nelson are a perfect—almost caricatured—example. In fact, their personalities perfectly embody their magic.
A delight to read, with characters who are as well-developed and incredibly endearing as ever.
And it’s always fun to reconnect with characters from previous books. I’m already looking forward to reading the next one!
Read it to your heart’s content… With tissues, because you’re going to cry from laughter and emotion!
-------
J'adore cette autrice qui nous offre une fois encore un magnifique travail, Lori AMES manie les mots à la perfection pour nous donner de la magie, des sentiments, des émotions et de l'humour.
L'histoire pourrait être très sombre, elle est sur certains aspects, Nelson n'est pas un personnage très fun de base et il a tendance à perdre son humanité alors que le désespoir le gagne. Mais Morgan malgré sa situation, malgré les complications est d'un optimisme démesuré et terriblement drôle, il est fait pour vivre dans le chaos de Willow Lake. Dans le genre "opposés qui s'attirent", Morgan et Nelson en sont un exemple parfait, presque caricatural. D'ailleurs, L'un et l'autre représentent parfaitement dans leur personnalité leur magie.
Un plaisir de lecture, des personnages toujours aussi bien travaillés et terriblement attachants.
Et c'est toujours fun de retrouver les personnages des précédents bouquins. J'ai déjà hâte de lire le prochain !
A lire sans modération... Avec des mouchoirs parce que vous allez pleurer de rire et d'émotions !
The story could be very dark—and in some ways, it is. Nelson isn’t exactly a fun character to begin with, and he tends to lose his humanity as despair takes hold of him. But Morgan, despite his situation and all the complications, is incredibly optimistic and terribly funny—he’s made for life in the chaos of Willow Lake. When it comes to “opposites attract,” Morgan and Nelson are a perfect—almost caricatured—example. In fact, their personalities perfectly embody their magic.
A delight to read, with characters who are as well-developed and incredibly endearing as ever.
And it’s always fun to reconnect with characters from previous books. I’m already looking forward to reading the next one!
Read it to your heart’s content… With tissues, because you’re going to cry from laughter and emotion!
-------
J'adore cette autrice qui nous offre une fois encore un magnifique travail, Lori AMES manie les mots à la perfection pour nous donner de la magie, des sentiments, des émotions et de l'humour.
L'histoire pourrait être très sombre, elle est sur certains aspects, Nelson n'est pas un personnage très fun de base et il a tendance à perdre son humanité alors que le désespoir le gagne. Mais Morgan malgré sa situation, malgré les complications est d'un optimisme démesuré et terriblement drôle, il est fait pour vivre dans le chaos de Willow Lake. Dans le genre "opposés qui s'attirent", Morgan et Nelson en sont un exemple parfait, presque caricatural. D'ailleurs, L'un et l'autre représentent parfaitement dans leur personnalité leur magie.
Un plaisir de lecture, des personnages toujours aussi bien travaillés et terriblement attachants.
Et c'est toujours fun de retrouver les personnages des précédents bouquins. J'ai déjà hâte de lire le prochain !
A lire sans modération... Avec des mouchoirs parce que vous allez pleurer de rire et d'émotions !
August 1, 2026
Love and fluffer knuckle sparkle blast
Nelson and Morgan’s grumpy/sunshine, dark/light fated mates romantic suspense story was delicious perfection. Reading this story just made my romance loving heart so happy, my insides felt just like Morgan’s iridescent joyful bubbles. I’m not sure anybody could resist the sparkling joy that is Morgan, not even dark as shadow Nelson. Nelson is a shadow shifter. He used to work for the Supernatural Counsel and now lives in Willow Lake, a supernatural friendly town along with his former team. He has been looking unsuccessfully for an abducted unicorn shifter for a long time, ever since his team helped break up a supernatural trafficking ring. Morgan is a unicorn shifter who has been searching for a specific crystal since his uncle was killed and he was captured. Unbeknownst to Nelson, while he is doing a side job at a black magic market for a SC contact, he’s about to serendipitously encounter Morgan. Unfortunately, Nelson is not the only one hunting Morgan. What would make a love story about a sparkly unicorn mated to a scowly shadow even better? Throw in a blizzard, isolated cabin, and only one bed amidst all the bad guys, the danger, and the found family. Love, danger, and forever all wrapped up in a rainbow. I am loving this series and am so happy that Nelson finally found his unicorn. I a, ready for all the HEAs in Willow Lake.
Nelson and Morgan’s grumpy/sunshine, dark/light fated mates romantic suspense story was delicious perfection. Reading this story just made my romance loving heart so happy, my insides felt just like Morgan’s iridescent joyful bubbles. I’m not sure anybody could resist the sparkling joy that is Morgan, not even dark as shadow Nelson. Nelson is a shadow shifter. He used to work for the Supernatural Counsel and now lives in Willow Lake, a supernatural friendly town along with his former team. He has been looking unsuccessfully for an abducted unicorn shifter for a long time, ever since his team helped break up a supernatural trafficking ring. Morgan is a unicorn shifter who has been searching for a specific crystal since his uncle was killed and he was captured. Unbeknownst to Nelson, while he is doing a side job at a black magic market for a SC contact, he’s about to serendipitously encounter Morgan. Unfortunately, Nelson is not the only one hunting Morgan. What would make a love story about a sparkly unicorn mated to a scowly shadow even better? Throw in a blizzard, isolated cabin, and only one bed amidst all the bad guys, the danger, and the found family. Love, danger, and forever all wrapped up in a rainbow. I am loving this series and am so happy that Nelson finally found his unicorn. I a, ready for all the HEAs in Willow Lake.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Second in the Willow Lake Pack series, this time it's Moran, the unicorn and Nelson the shadow-jumper who find themselves as fated mates.
Morgan has been in a cage for a very long time (we've run into him in previous books), but this time he finally gets free. Nelson has been hunting for him at the request of his dragon-shifter friend. They find each other at a supernatural market (by accident), figure out they are fated mates, and spend most of the book trying to figure out why the hunters are after Morgan. You should really read the other books, as there are so many people and plot points that are a continuation of what has happened before.
It's impossible not to love Morgan. He's a swishy, bouncy, happy, prancing unicorn that burps bubbles when he laughs. Nelson is the grump to his sunshine, but Nelson can't help but love him too. There's a lot of found family in this, as the Willow Lake Pack continues to grow. Medium to low spice - this is more about the plot than the sex part of the romance. Read this all in one afternoon - too much fun to put down. Looking forward to more.
Morgan has been in a cage for a very long time (we've run into him in previous books), but this time he finally gets free. Nelson has been hunting for him at the request of his dragon-shifter friend. They find each other at a supernatural market (by accident), figure out they are fated mates, and spend most of the book trying to figure out why the hunters are after Morgan. You should really read the other books, as there are so many people and plot points that are a continuation of what has happened before.
It's impossible not to love Morgan. He's a swishy, bouncy, happy, prancing unicorn that burps bubbles when he laughs. Nelson is the grump to his sunshine, but Nelson can't help but love him too. There's a lot of found family in this, as the Willow Lake Pack continues to grow. Medium to low spice - this is more about the plot than the sex part of the romance. Read this all in one afternoon - too much fun to put down. Looking forward to more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another Great Story in the Willow Cove Family!!
Overall Opinion:
Loved this, just like all of the other characters in this fluffy spin-off and the OG series! I've been waiting for Nelson and Morgan to finally get their book, and it was so much fun to watch Morgan make Nelson smile against his will. Lol
I absolutely adore Morgan. His little wiggles and shimmies and bubbly laughs along with the most colorful wardrobe in all the land make him such a fun character to get to know. He's the only one who could get Nelson to relax and enjoy the life he accidentally built in Willow Cove.
Thoughts/Recommendations:
A really great choice for those into paranormal MM romance with plenty of fluff, a low-angst relationship, medium heat, and a little danger. HEA all the way!!
I absolutely adore Morgan. His little wiggles and shimmies and bubbly laughs along with the most colorful wardrobe in all the land make him such a fun character to get to know. He's the only one who could get Nelson to relax and enjoy the life he accidentally built in Willow Cove.
Overall Opinion:
Loved this, just like all of the other characters in this fluffy spin-off and the OG series! I've been waiting for Nelson and Morgan to finally get their book, and it was so much fun to watch Morgan make Nelson smile against his will. Lol
I absolutely adore Morgan. His little wiggles and shimmies and bubbly laughs along with the most colorful wardrobe in all the land make him such a fun character to get to know. He's the only one who could get Nelson to relax and enjoy the life he accidentally built in Willow Cove.
Thoughts/Recommendations:
A really great choice for those into paranormal MM romance with plenty of fluff, a low-angst relationship, medium heat, and a little danger. HEA all the way!!
I absolutely adore Morgan. His little wiggles and shimmies and bubbly laughs along with the most colorful wardrobe in all the land make him such a fun character to get to know. He's the only one who could get Nelson to relax and enjoy the life he accidentally built in Willow Cove.
August 1, 2026
Reviewing an ARC copy.
It’s been a year since we were in the Willow Lake world, so it took me a couple of chapters for my brain to reengage into the world. Lori was quite helpful in reminding us where we were without it ever feeling like an info dump.
I’ll be honest, I found Morgan to be a little annoying at first, but he quickly grew on me. After the meet-not-so-cute happens, the story quickly becomes a page-turner. (I read 65% of the book in one evening)
Once they are on the same page, Morgan and Nelson are absolutely adorable together. Nelson may be a bit overprotective, but Morgan most definitely needs that. The affection between the two of practically leaps off the page, and not gonna lie, I teared up a time or two.
The hunters continue to be a pain in the ass, but at least there’s a bit of retribution here.
All in all, an absolutely terrific addition to the Willow Lake Universe.
It’s been a year since we were in the Willow Lake world, so it took me a couple of chapters for my brain to reengage into the world. Lori was quite helpful in reminding us where we were without it ever feeling like an info dump.
I’ll be honest, I found Morgan to be a little annoying at first, but he quickly grew on me. After the meet-not-so-cute happens, the story quickly becomes a page-turner. (I read 65% of the book in one evening)
Once they are on the same page, Morgan and Nelson are absolutely adorable together. Nelson may be a bit overprotective, but Morgan most definitely needs that. The affection between the two of practically leaps off the page, and not gonna lie, I teared up a time or two.
The hunters continue to be a pain in the ass, but at least there’s a bit of retribution here.
All in all, an absolutely terrific addition to the Willow Lake Universe.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Stubborn as a Shadow is the second book in the Willow Lake Pack series. This series is a spin-off from the Willow Lake Supernaturals series. This book can be read as a standalone but in my opinion it is better to read the Willow Lake Supernaturals series and the first book in this series to get the most out of the story. This is the story of Morgan a unicorn shifter and is a shadow jumper. I have waited a while for Nelson's story and it was definitely worth the wait. I couldn't put this book down once I started it. This was an amazingly sweet and wonderful story with plenty of sunshine, darkness, found family, and mostly lots of love. Nelson and Morgan bring out the best in each other which is what fated mates should do. I loved all the characters and the world building that went into this book. The plot kept me turning the pages. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
August 4, 2026
Review of advanced copy received by Author
Stubborn as a Shadow is a jump back into the Willow Lake world. To say I have been waiting patiently for Nelson and Morgan’s story would be a lie, because I have not been patient. I have been ready for Morgan’s story since he was pushed through that portal a year ago. This story is about 2 guys that could not be more different. Nelson is brooding and grumpy. He is not happy with his life. Whereas Morgan is sunshine personified. He is able to be happy and joyful even in the hardest of times. Nelson has been searching for Morgan after he was pushed through a portal and disappeared during the rescue mission. Morgan was able to escape but did not know Nelson was searching for him. I love the way the book was also a reunion of both the Willow Lake Supernaturals series and the Willow Lake Pack. I felt there was a great mix of suspense and romance without being predictable.
Stubborn as a Shadow is a jump back into the Willow Lake world. To say I have been waiting patiently for Nelson and Morgan’s story would be a lie, because I have not been patient. I have been ready for Morgan’s story since he was pushed through that portal a year ago. This story is about 2 guys that could not be more different. Nelson is brooding and grumpy. He is not happy with his life. Whereas Morgan is sunshine personified. He is able to be happy and joyful even in the hardest of times. Nelson has been searching for Morgan after he was pushed through a portal and disappeared during the rescue mission. Morgan was able to escape but did not know Nelson was searching for him. I love the way the book was also a reunion of both the Willow Lake Supernaturals series and the Willow Lake Pack. I felt there was a great mix of suspense and romance without being predictable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 Rainbow Sparkles 🌈 🦄
It's so lovely to be be back with the gang at Willow Lake. Morgan was adorably clueless, innocent, naive? Difficult to tell really, but he sure was full of rainbows and sparkles and ridiculous swear words - "Fluffer knuckle sparkle blast" was my favourite. Even when his life was in danger, he seemed unable to grasp the seriousness of the situation. For the most part that was loveable, but he did feel a little shallow at times. Nelson, was the absolute opposite and definitely needed someone to bring some light and joy to his world. They were absolutely perfect together. The story was fun, with just the right amount of tension to keep you engaged. The mystery was surprising, but so right. We also met some new characters I hope to see again in future stories.
It's so lovely to be be back with the gang at Willow Lake. Morgan was adorably clueless, innocent, naive? Difficult to tell really, but he sure was full of rainbows and sparkles and ridiculous swear words - "Fluffer knuckle sparkle blast" was my favourite. Even when his life was in danger, he seemed unable to grasp the seriousness of the situation. For the most part that was loveable, but he did feel a little shallow at times. Nelson, was the absolute opposite and definitely needed someone to bring some light and joy to his world. They were absolutely perfect together. The story was fun, with just the right amount of tension to keep you engaged. The mystery was surprising, but so right. We also met some new characters I hope to see again in future stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"He could be my overprotective sidekick. Every hero needed one, right?"
This is book 2 in the series Willow Lake Pack by Lori Ames. What an adorable story. I wouldn't expect anything less than adorable, from Lori Ames, especially when writing about a unicorn. All her "special and unique" characters are written in such a way that you can't help falling in love with them.
This book had so many laugh-out-loud moments. I had to stop and wipe my eyes a couple of times to get the tears out of them from laughing so much. Even the chapters had cute and funny names.
"Great galloping giraffes!" I can't wait for Carter and Eric's story.
Grumpy/sunshine, just a lonely unicorn looking for his family, a shadow jumper tempted to fade into the shadows, fated mates, found family, boring black is not a color, capes really do need to come back in style
This is book 2 in the series Willow Lake Pack by Lori Ames. What an adorable story. I wouldn't expect anything less than adorable, from Lori Ames, especially when writing about a unicorn. All her "special and unique" characters are written in such a way that you can't help falling in love with them.
This book had so many laugh-out-loud moments. I had to stop and wipe my eyes a couple of times to get the tears out of them from laughing so much. Even the chapters had cute and funny names.
"Great galloping giraffes!" I can't wait for Carter and Eric's story.
Grumpy/sunshine, just a lonely unicorn looking for his family, a shadow jumper tempted to fade into the shadows, fated mates, found family, boring black is not a color, capes really do need to come back in style
Review of advance copy received from Author
After losing his parents Morgans life mission is to find out how they passed. Since than he has only relied on Violet and his uncle so when the dark Nelson enters his life he has a hard time trusting him that he may be in danger and could Willow Lake really be his sanctuary. When Nelson is asked by the Supernatural Council to do a side job he doesn’t expect to find the man he’s been searching for all this time.
Morgans naivety and sunshiny vibes even after all he has been through makes you get why Nelson cannot stay away. Morgan did something no one has been able to do for Nelson, he was able to relax and fully accept his new beautiful life. These two may be opposites in every way, yet they just blend as the sun rises and sets every day, their bond is inevitable. Willow Lake shows this supe and his sister what it is like to be fully accepted and loved no matter who you are. It was a blast catching up with these characters once again. Next up we finally get to see Carter find and get his perfect partner in the shy Eric.
Morgans naivety and sunshiny vibes even after all he has been through makes you get why Nelson cannot stay away. Morgan did something no one has been able to do for Nelson, he was able to relax and fully accept his new beautiful life. These two may be opposites in every way, yet they just blend as the sun rises and sets every day, their bond is inevitable. Willow Lake shows this supe and his sister what it is like to be fully accepted and loved no matter who you are. It was a blast catching up with these characters once again. Next up we finally get to see Carter find and get his perfect partner in the shy Eric.
August 6, 2026
Both Nelson and had Morgan dealt with a lot and still were. There is a lot of emotion in this story that pulled me right in with both of these guys intimately. The underlying humor was absolute perfection though. Yes, Nelson was a bit crabby, but his thoughts are still amusing. Especially any thoughts reacting to or about Morgan. Morgan was everything a unicorn should be and then some. He was literally colorful and he just shimmered with light and joyous chaos. Exaggerated opposites that just absolutely work! Adored this romance.
August 7, 2026
ARC Review
4 ⭐️
MM Romance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Fated Mates
As I started reading this book, I quickly realized it might have been a little too cheerful for my personal taste.
That said, this book had plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. It also had quite a few eye-roll moments for me—but that could just be my sense of humor.
OMG, who knew unicorns could be so funny? The jokes about their horns had me laughing out loud. 🤣 If you're looking for a lighthearted book that will keep you smiling from beginning to end, then you should definitely give this one a try.
4 ⭐️
MM Romance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Fated Mates
As I started reading this book, I quickly realized it might have been a little too cheerful for my personal taste.
That said, this book had plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. It also had quite a few eye-roll moments for me—but that could just be my sense of humor.
OMG, who knew unicorns could be so funny? The jokes about their horns had me laughing out loud. 🤣 If you're looking for a lighthearted book that will keep you smiling from beginning to end, then you should definitely give this one a try.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What is it about this author, everytime I finish one of their stories I have a dmile on my face.
I beyond adored Morgan and lowkey admit that the mission impossible theme tune went through my head a few times. While I did guess who the bad guy was, it disnt detract from my enjoyment of the book. Nelson statted all doom and gloom, but lets face it, with pure joy in his life that was never gomna stay that way. He was still a little grumpy guts at the end, but we love him
I beyond adored Morgan and lowkey admit that the mission impossible theme tune went through my head a few times. While I did guess who the bad guy was, it disnt detract from my enjoyment of the book. Nelson statted all doom and gloom, but lets face it, with pure joy in his life that was never gomna stay that way. He was still a little grumpy guts at the end, but we love him
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a grumpy sunshine but Nelson is a grumpy shadow that falls for Morgan who is basically sunshine incarnate. Their personalities and powers balance each other well. Morgan exudes happiness and (literally) rainbows and bubbles while Nelson is broody and dark. Watching Nelson try to keep it together while dealing with literal bubbles of laughter had me rolling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve read a lot of Lori Ames’s books and this is one of my favorites. I ADORED, LOVED, WOULD DIE FOR Morgan. Like seriously, he is one of my favorite MCs I’ve ever read. Just so innocent and happy and bubbly (his capes and his shimmies 🥹🥹). This series and this world just keeps getting better and better.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was so freaking good. I absolutely adore Morgan. He is the most sunshiny person ever. Nelson was his perfect match. I loved how this story played out so much. I don’t want to give away spoilers at all but this is definitely my favorite for the Willow Lake Pack so far. I can’t gush about Morgan enough. This is definitely a must read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Morgan is an utterly clueless and adorable gremlin in unicorn form. He is so innocent and sunshiny, despite everything that has happened. He really needs a keeper. Nelson may not realize it, but he volunteered. I love the found family that is Willow Lake. Such a lovely story and a wonderful addition to the series.
August 6, 2026
OMG I loved Morgan! Such a great character, with so many amazing quirks. This was a fun continuation of the series, with a tad more violence (at least from what I remember from previous books), cameos from all our favorite supes, and obviously getting to know Morgan and Nelson. Low angst, low heat, HFN.
This is my honest review of an advanced reader copy.
This is my honest review of an advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grumpy/Sunshine is one of my favorite tropes. I so enjoyed Nelson and Morgan's story. I fell in love with Morgan's quirkiness and inner dialog. I love how they balanced each other out. I cannot wait to see what else is in store for the Willow Lake Pack.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've been excited to read Morgan's book since we met him, his character perfectly fits with being a unicorn and is the rainbow to Nelson's storm cloud. Their hilarious hijinks and emotional moments had me eating this book up. 🦄⛈️🫧🌈
Nelson has been searching for Morgan since he was sent through a portal while locked in a cage in Cats Never Fly, sacrificing sleep to track down every lead. In between leads he agrees to do a friend and favor and watch someone's back at black market, where he finally finds Morgan. He's reluctant to give into the pull he feels to Morgan, he has to keep him safe and this glittering happy being deserves someone more than his grumpy self.
Nelson has been searching for Morgan since he was sent through a portal while locked in a cage in Cats Never Fly, sacrificing sleep to track down every lead. In between leads he agrees to do a friend and favor and watch someone's back at black market, where he finally finds Morgan. He's reluctant to give into the pull he feels to Morgan, he has to keep him safe and this glittering happy being deserves someone more than his grumpy self.
August 5, 2026
Absolutely brilliant! I devoured this book so freaking fast.
I adored Morgan, he was sweet and his quirky yet larger than life personality just won my heart over.
Nelson was a grump but being around Morgan showed a different side to him. He was fiercely protective and the chemistry between the two was smoking hot.
Amazing book and a great addition to the series!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
I adored Morgan, he was sweet and his quirky yet larger than life personality just won my heart over.
Nelson was a grump but being around Morgan showed a different side to him. He was fiercely protective and the chemistry between the two was smoking hot.
Amazing book and a great addition to the series!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Review of advance copy received from Author
It is no surprise with a book about a unicorn, written by Lori Ames, that it has turned out to be a cute book.
All the characters are so sweet and special.
With every book, this series gets better and better.
💞Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
All the characters are so sweet and special.
With every book, this series gets better and better.
💞Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was very cute! I loved the description of Morgan and all the traits that make him a unicorn. His personality and character description was definitely the highlight of the book. It was all very fun and silly. I enjoyed the plot of this book and the relationship development between Morgan and Nelson, and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
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