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Bonds and Blooms: A Sweet Omegaverse Romance
She’s wary of alphas. They’re determined to be her safe place.
Faye Nightingale doesn’t want to be pouring tea in a sleepy, small town forever. From day one at Scent Valley University, she knows she made the right choice to leave behind her comfort zone. She’s got a cozy apartment, friends who feel like sisters, and a new sense of freedom.
All that’s holding her back is her underlying apprehension of alphas.
Something she’s forced to face when she stumbles across the most eligible pack on campus, a pack who believe they’re her scent match.
Ren… The sweet bookworm who helps her learn how to trust.
Laz… Her new best friend's lovable, golden retriever brother.
Cole… Their protective leader, whose strong arms feel like home.
Damon… The grumpy biker hiding secrets and a softer side.
After an unexpected heat spike causes Faye’s world to unravel, her body and heart start to betray her. The Silverwood Pack will do anything to prove they’re worthy of their omega, but even fated love isn’t perfect.
Can they find a way to heal a lifetime of hurt to claim the happily-ever-after they all deserve?
***
Bonds and Blooms is a sweet, standalone, omegaverse romance set in the quirky world of Scent Valley University. Get ready to swoon at four hot alphas, meet your new fictional BFFs, gasp at spicy knotty heats, and giggle along with their banter. This low-angst, why choose romance will hit you in the feels like a warm hug and comes with a guaranteed HEA.
Faye Nightingale doesn’t want to be pouring tea in a sleepy, small town forever. From day one at Scent Valley University, she knows she made the right choice to leave behind her comfort zone. She’s got a cozy apartment, friends who feel like sisters, and a new sense of freedom.
All that’s holding her back is her underlying apprehension of alphas.
Something she’s forced to face when she stumbles across the most eligible pack on campus, a pack who believe they’re her scent match.
Ren… The sweet bookworm who helps her learn how to trust.
Laz… Her new best friend's lovable, golden retriever brother.
Cole… Their protective leader, whose strong arms feel like home.
Damon… The grumpy biker hiding secrets and a softer side.
After an unexpected heat spike causes Faye’s world to unravel, her body and heart start to betray her. The Silverwood Pack will do anything to prove they’re worthy of their omega, but even fated love isn’t perfect.
Can they find a way to heal a lifetime of hurt to claim the happily-ever-after they all deserve?
***
Bonds and Blooms is a sweet, standalone, omegaverse romance set in the quirky world of Scent Valley University. Get ready to swoon at four hot alphas, meet your new fictional BFFs, gasp at spicy knotty heats, and giggle along with their banter. This low-angst, why choose romance will hit you in the feels like a warm hug and comes with a guaranteed HEA.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2025
751 people are currently reading
665 people want to read
About the author
Polly Maple
2 books25 followersPolly Maple writes sweet omegaverse romance filled with all the fuzzy feels. Her fated mate love stories feature swoon-worthy alphas, characters you'll want to befriend, and a side of fun banter, all wrapped up in knotty heats that feel like coming home.
When Polly isn't dreaming up love stories, she's chasing her feral toddler, pestering her husband to make her chai lattes, and snuggling up under blankets watching reruns of her favorite comfort shows.
When Polly isn't dreaming up love stories, she's chasing her feral toddler, pestering her husband to make her chai lattes, and snuggling up under blankets watching reruns of her favorite comfort shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
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November 7, 2025DNF @ 77%.
i tried to get through the whole thing, because i really did like parts of it. overall, i liked the writing. and i would be willing to pick up a book by this author in the future.
unfortunately, one of the heroes (damon) ruined this book for me.
at 60% the heroine apologized to damon, even though she literally hadn't even done anything wrong, she'd only acted on the lie HE had told her.
he'd also been an asshole to her from the very start. and yet SHE apologized to HIM?? please tell me why this woman apologized to this huge jerk... makes no sense.
and then, immediately thereafter, the heroine said yes to a courtship with the pack, even knowing that one of the heroes didn't want to be with her.
and the rest of the pack didn't even care how damon treated her, and never even considered throwing him out of the pack or intervening in any real way.
the fact that none of them took responsibility for their pack mate's behaviour was a major red flag.
the heroine thought to herself that SHE needed to CONVINCE damon to get over his issues and be with her. im so tired of this type of heroine.
the first time damon talked to her in a non-abrasive manner? at 73%!!!! that's so late. and 1% later they kissed for the first time, and then immediately had sex.
the heroine had no pride... like, how about at least he buy you a cup of coffee first and have a goddamn conversation that's not him being an asshole to you???
and then later he said he'd make up for lost time irt her, and apparently that just meant more sex. 🙄 im so glad my standards are higher than the heroine's when it comes to relationships.
also, as a side note, the heroine was raised by her grandmother who played a big part in an international omega rights organization. and yet, when the heroine was harassed by a professor because of her designation, she didn't act on it and needed to be saved by her alpha. seriously? ok...
i tried to get through the whole thing, because i really did like parts of it. overall, i liked the writing. and i would be willing to pick up a book by this author in the future.
unfortunately, one of the heroes (damon) ruined this book for me.
at 60% the heroine apologized to damon, even though she literally hadn't even done anything wrong, she'd only acted on the lie HE had told her.
he'd also been an asshole to her from the very start. and yet SHE apologized to HIM?? please tell me why this woman apologized to this huge jerk... makes no sense.
and then, immediately thereafter, the heroine said yes to a courtship with the pack, even knowing that one of the heroes didn't want to be with her.
and the rest of the pack didn't even care how damon treated her, and never even considered throwing him out of the pack or intervening in any real way.
the fact that none of them took responsibility for their pack mate's behaviour was a major red flag.
the heroine thought to herself that SHE needed to CONVINCE damon to get over his issues and be with her. im so tired of this type of heroine.
the first time damon talked to her in a non-abrasive manner? at 73%!!!! that's so late. and 1% later they kissed for the first time, and then immediately had sex.
the heroine had no pride... like, how about at least he buy you a cup of coffee first and have a goddamn conversation that's not him being an asshole to you???
and then later he said he'd make up for lost time irt her, and apparently that just meant more sex. 🙄 im so glad my standards are higher than the heroine's when it comes to relationships.
also, as a side note, the heroine was raised by her grandmother who played a big part in an international omega rights organization. and yet, when the heroine was harassed by a professor because of her designation, she didn't act on it and needed to be saved by her alpha. seriously? ok...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2025
4 stars
A gooey-sweet college omegaverse where I really liked the FMC, her 4 alphas (they all felt distinct and had different relationships with the FMC), and a lot of side characters who will surely have their own books. I was in the mood for something low-angst and cozy, and this easily delivered.
A gooey-sweet college omegaverse where I really liked the FMC, her 4 alphas (they all felt distinct and had different relationships with the FMC), and a lot of side characters who will surely have their own books. I was in the mood for something low-angst and cozy, and this easily delivered.
November 17, 2025
This is good and enjoyable and I would never discourage anyone from reading this, but it fell on the side of a little too cutesy for what I was wanting. This was also a touch melodramatic for a low angst book. I would absolutely read more from this author and interested to see what's in store for the other Omegas.
MFMMM
MFMMM
November 20, 2025
Super duper cute and cozy omega themed book with a HEA-more so a HFN. Breeding and preg kink free.
3.75 stars.
There were a few plot holes for me. Nothing huge. Or maybe I should say i overlooked them for the most part.
So the fmc comes from a very small town, raised by her gramma bc alphas killed her folks, and so she is told all alphas are bad.
Ok. I can vibe with that-her gramma is basically raising her to fear alphas so much that she runs from alphas and absolutely freaks out. It’s actually pretty shitty of her wonderful amazing grams to do to her. But again, I get it. It’s trauma from losing her parents. Even tho she has no memory of the event bc she was a baby and so anything she is being told is by her grams. 🫠 But then further on you learn her grams didn’t do that? So this whole backstory is basically in this fmc’s head? And her grams who she is super close to doesn’t even know? Or help??
Her grandma starts some omega united movement but then raises her without any true omega education despite the fact they have access to the internet? 🙄 sis straight up comes to college and knows jack shit about being an omega.
I feel like writing a truly sheltered 21 yo is wild. But ok.
I can get being sheltered from alphas and being pretty much lied to by her grams but being sheltered from knowledge about her own designation WHILE HER GRAMMA IS THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF AN OMEGA RIGHTS GROUP didn’t work for me.
Even in a fiction story it has to make sense. 🤷🏻♀️
Also the author had a small side character who was a beloved driver-and left his mysterious whereabouts of why he was taking a vacation, dangling as if anyone cared. 🤣🙄 Sis we all know he was hooking up w grams. Don’t even😆.
I also feel like the story sort of ended abruptly. Like they bond and then-boom-the end. Hence why I rated this 3 stars vs 4 when overall it was a 3.75 story for me. It needed more. And not giving your readers an epilouge and more without having to give our email to you is wrong.
RH no MM
Medium spice🍆🍆🍆
KU
No OW or OM drama🐽
No preg or breeding kinks.
HFN-while it is a HEA in that she found her mates and bonded you get nothing about their future. So more a HFN.
3.75 stars.
There were a few plot holes for me. Nothing huge. Or maybe I should say i overlooked them for the most part.
So the fmc comes from a very small town, raised by her gramma bc alphas killed her folks, and so she is told all alphas are bad.
Ok. I can vibe with that-her gramma is basically raising her to fear alphas so much that she runs from alphas and absolutely freaks out. It’s actually pretty shitty of her wonderful amazing grams to do to her. But again, I get it. It’s trauma from losing her parents. Even tho she has no memory of the event bc she was a baby and so anything she is being told is by her grams. 🫠 But then further on you learn her grams didn’t do that? So this whole backstory is basically in this fmc’s head? And her grams who she is super close to doesn’t even know? Or help??
Her grandma starts some omega united movement but then raises her without any true omega education despite the fact they have access to the internet? 🙄 sis straight up comes to college and knows jack shit about being an omega.
I feel like writing a truly sheltered 21 yo is wild. But ok.
I can get being sheltered from alphas and being pretty much lied to by her grams but being sheltered from knowledge about her own designation WHILE HER GRAMMA IS THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF AN OMEGA RIGHTS GROUP didn’t work for me.
Even in a fiction story it has to make sense. 🤷🏻♀️
Also the author had a small side character who was a beloved driver-and left his mysterious whereabouts of why he was taking a vacation, dangling as if anyone cared. 🤣🙄 Sis we all know he was hooking up w grams. Don’t even😆.
I also feel like the story sort of ended abruptly. Like they bond and then-boom-the end. Hence why I rated this 3 stars vs 4 when overall it was a 3.75 story for me. It needed more. And not giving your readers an epilouge and more without having to give our email to you is wrong.
RH no MM
Medium spice🍆🍆🍆
KU
No OW or OM drama🐽
No preg or breeding kinks.
HFN-while it is a HEA in that she found her mates and bonded you get nothing about their future. So more a HFN.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2025
⭐⭐ 2 stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️3 Spice
From the start, the sweet and cozy vibe of this book really stood out. It felt warm, light, and had that comforting charm I normally adore in a cozy romance. But as much as I wanted to love it, I found myself zoning out, brushing over sections, and struggling to stay invested.
I usually love stories where friendship and gentle support shine, and this book absolutely had that. The pack’s love and kindness were heartfelt and sincere. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to carry the rest of the book.
My biggest issue was the consistency of the main character, Faye. She was introduced as someone deeply focused on her lifelong goals and studies, especially given her history and motivations. But that thread completely vanished as soon as the romantic storyline kicked in. Her goals became a background detail, barely mentioned again, and it felt like her core purpose was lost.
There were moments I liked, and I appreciated the respectful nature of the relationships, but too many story elements felt rushed or underdeveloped. Plot points were introduced and then quickly dropped. The spice was graphic and open-door, but without emotional connection or investment, even that fell flat for me.
✅ What I liked
The friendships and emotional support
Positive consent and care in romantic interactions
The cozy, comforting vibes
❌ What didn’t work for me
I didn’t connect emotionally with the story or characters
Inconsistent portrayal of Faye’s personality and motivations
Her university goals were abandoned halfway through
Major plot events felt rushed or unresolved
Overuse of a specific word to the point of distraction
Would I recommend this book?
No
Would I reread it?
No
How would I sum it up?
A story full of sweetness and warmth, but ultimately left me feeling confused, disconnected, and underwhelmed.
https://bestbooks89.blogspot.com/2025...
🌶️🌶️🌶️3 Spice
From the start, the sweet and cozy vibe of this book really stood out. It felt warm, light, and had that comforting charm I normally adore in a cozy romance. But as much as I wanted to love it, I found myself zoning out, brushing over sections, and struggling to stay invested.
I usually love stories where friendship and gentle support shine, and this book absolutely had that. The pack’s love and kindness were heartfelt and sincere. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to carry the rest of the book.
My biggest issue was the consistency of the main character, Faye. She was introduced as someone deeply focused on her lifelong goals and studies, especially given her history and motivations. But that thread completely vanished as soon as the romantic storyline kicked in. Her goals became a background detail, barely mentioned again, and it felt like her core purpose was lost.
There were moments I liked, and I appreciated the respectful nature of the relationships, but too many story elements felt rushed or underdeveloped. Plot points were introduced and then quickly dropped. The spice was graphic and open-door, but without emotional connection or investment, even that fell flat for me.
✅ What I liked
The friendships and emotional support
Positive consent and care in romantic interactions
The cozy, comforting vibes
❌ What didn’t work for me
I didn’t connect emotionally with the story or characters
Inconsistent portrayal of Faye’s personality and motivations
Her university goals were abandoned halfway through
Major plot events felt rushed or unresolved
Overuse of a specific word to the point of distraction
Would I recommend this book?
No
Would I reread it?
No
How would I sum it up?
A story full of sweetness and warmth, but ultimately left me feeling confused, disconnected, and underwhelmed.
https://bestbooks89.blogspot.com/2025...
Read
November 3, 2025RTC
November 15, 2025
This was a really cute story but it could have been at least 100 pages less. I skimmed a lot of it in certain parts. I thought the writing was good and I would read another book by this author because the storyline was sweet.
Damon did piss me off, he was pathetic tbh. Faye apologised constantly in his presence for doing absolutely nothing wrong and he just sat back and accepted it. I get that he’s supposed to be this misunderstood alpha but no I’m sorry she did not deserve to be treated like that. And she bonded with him first like WTF, that should have been Ren 🥺
Overall it was still cute and low angst, not much really happened for such a long book but 🤷♀️
Damon did piss me off, he was pathetic tbh. Faye apologised constantly in his presence for doing absolutely nothing wrong and he just sat back and accepted it. I get that he’s supposed to be this misunderstood alpha but no I’m sorry she did not deserve to be treated like that. And she bonded with him first like WTF, that should have been Ren 🥺
Overall it was still cute and low angst, not much really happened for such a long book but 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2025
3.5⭐️ this was cutesy, a bit corny at times, but i expect nothing less from a contemporary omegaverse!
December 15, 2025
I wouldn’t waste your time on this one 😅😬 it wasn’t terrible but definitely not great…didn’t connect with the characters. The spice was plentiful but not varied enough with 4 alphas. No mention of shifting or anything! It’s basically just humans with wolf hierarchy and anatomy. Felt very cringey and juvenile.
November 24, 2025
3 stars ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★ Bonds and Blooms☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★
⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´
🎶 “There was nowhere for me to stay. But I stayed anyway” 🎶
Faye Nightingale (h) wants more than a quiet life in her small hometown, and Scent Valley University feels like the fresh start she has been searching for. She has new friends, a cozy apartment, and a taste of freedom, but her lingering fear of alphas keeps her guarded. Everything changes when she meets the Silverwood Pack, Ren, Laz, Cole, and Damon (H), four men who believe she is their scent match.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´THOUGHTS ﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
[Ren]
Ren is my soft caretaker bookworm who instantly goes into protector mode around her 💌💗😭🤍. He is gentle and sweet, completely down bad from the moment he sees her. Faye was the first person to treat Ren as an Alpha despite his interests and how soft he is, because when it mattered, he was protective of her and willing to do whatever was necessary to make sure she was safe. He is so loved by me. He carried deep insecurities that she helped erase through her constant praise and reassurance. She made him feel good, made him feel seen, and reminded him that he was enough.💗💖🤍💌💘
[Laz]
Laz is always saying the wrong thing without meaning to. He has golden retriever energy, and I love him for it. Yes, he constantly puts his foot in his mouth, but he never means any harm. As long as she understands that, his character works. I think the book did a good job of showing that he is the type to act before he thinks, and because he is Laz, everyone lets it slide.
[Damon]
Damon pushed her until he made her afraid of him. It makes sense that he was the first to bond with her because he spent so long trying to push her away. In the end, though, he wanted her deeply. He wanted to protect her from himself, believing he could hurt her, even though she had nothing to fear. He had been coerced by another omega in the past and blamed himself for unintentionally harming her, even though it was not his fault. She forced herself on him, and he only protected himself.
[Colt]
Colt feels a constant responsibility to make sure she is safe. He makes sure she has a comfortable pack house, sends out the guys to gather things for her nest, and just wants her happy. She did not bond with him first, but because he does not care about pack hierarchy, it did not matter. He officially integrated her into the pack as soon as she bonded with Damon, proving that he just wanted her to feel secure. He knew she was theirs the moment he saw her, so the decision came easily to him.
My only issue was that after she bonded with Damon, it felt rushed with the others. That one took time, and it felt intentional, but the rest happened too fast. Especially with Laz, who went into rut right after she bonded with Colt, and it all came out of nowhere. He did not really get that one-on-one bonding moment with her. Then, when it was time for her to bond with Ren, it happened differently. She did not take his knot because their connection was more emotional than physical, so she just bit him, and that is how the book ended.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´OVERALLﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
Do not get me wrong, though. The book was really sweet. It focused on omega rights and her determination to pursue an education, putting herself first. She refused to let being part of a pack define her or limit her independence. She still wanted her own office, her own space, and her own goals. The emphasis on sisterhood stood out the most for me. I loved that the book showed she could have independence, love, and support all at once.
☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★ Bonds and Blooms☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★
⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´
🎶 “There was nowhere for me to stay. But I stayed anyway” 🎶
Faye Nightingale (h) wants more than a quiet life in her small hometown, and Scent Valley University feels like the fresh start she has been searching for. She has new friends, a cozy apartment, and a taste of freedom, but her lingering fear of alphas keeps her guarded. Everything changes when she meets the Silverwood Pack, Ren, Laz, Cole, and Damon (H), four men who believe she is their scent match.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´THOUGHTS ﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
[Ren]
“Ren,” I whimper in pain. An overwhelming urge for release and connection comes over me. “I need you. Please.”
Her perfume has a comforting edge, bringing out my caretaker side, making me want to tuck her into bed and curl up beside her to keep her warm.
Ren is my soft caretaker bookworm who instantly goes into protector mode around her 💌💗😭🤍. He is gentle and sweet, completely down bad from the moment he sees her. Faye was the first person to treat Ren as an Alpha despite his interests and how soft he is, because when it mattered, he was protective of her and willing to do whatever was necessary to make sure she was safe. He is so loved by me. He carried deep insecurities that she helped erase through her constant praise and reassurance. She made him feel good, made him feel seen, and reminded him that he was enough.💗💖🤍💌💘
[Laz]
“I… I only—”
“Go!”
Did the most mesmerizing girl I’ve ever seen just slam the door to Stella House in my face?
Laz is always saying the wrong thing without meaning to. He has golden retriever energy, and I love him for it. Yes, he constantly puts his foot in his mouth, but he never means any harm. As long as she understands that, his character works. I think the book did a good job of showing that he is the type to act before he thinks, and because he is Laz, everyone lets it slide.
[Damon]
“What do you think you’re doing out here alone?” He glares down at me. “It’s not safe for an omega to be outside the village alone at night! Don’t you know anything?”
“I-I-I didn’t—”
“Didn’t think?” He rakes his hands through his wavy hair and sighs, dispersing more of his scent. “Clearly.”
Damon pushed her until he made her afraid of him. It makes sense that he was the first to bond with her because he spent so long trying to push her away. In the end, though, he wanted her deeply. He wanted to protect her from himself, believing he could hurt her, even though she had nothing to fear. He had been coerced by another omega in the past and blamed himself for unintentionally harming her, even though it was not his fault. She forced herself on him, and he only protected himself.
[Colt]
“Stay calm, Ren.” Cole returns to his usual level-headed self. “Laz will meet you. Just keep her safe, okay? Leave everything else to us. It’ll be okay.”
Colt feels a constant responsibility to make sure she is safe. He makes sure she has a comfortable pack house, sends out the guys to gather things for her nest, and just wants her happy. She did not bond with him first, but because he does not care about pack hierarchy, it did not matter. He officially integrated her into the pack as soon as she bonded with Damon, proving that he just wanted her to feel secure. He knew she was theirs the moment he saw her, so the decision came easily to him.
My only issue was that after she bonded with Damon, it felt rushed with the others. That one took time, and it felt intentional, but the rest happened too fast. Especially with Laz, who went into rut right after she bonded with Colt, and it all came out of nowhere. He did not really get that one-on-one bonding moment with her. Then, when it was time for her to bond with Ren, it happened differently. She did not take his knot because their connection was more emotional than physical, so she just bit him, and that is how the book ended.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´OVERALLﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
Do not get me wrong, though. The book was really sweet. It focused on omega rights and her determination to pursue an education, putting herself first. She refused to let being part of a pack define her or limit her independence. She still wanted her own office, her own space, and her own goals. The emphasis on sisterhood stood out the most for me. I loved that the book showed she could have independence, love, and support all at once.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2025
Genre: NA/Adult Omegaverse Romance
Spice: 2.5/5🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
The Catalog: MFMMM college omegaverse, touch starved omega, scent-matches, surprise heat, female friendship sisterhood, omega with past alpha trauma, reluctant alpha, inexperienced FMC, found family, protective alphas, heat/rut & knotting
Silverwood Pack Dynamics:
α Ω α α α
Cole (α): Pack Leader
Ren (α): Bookish
Laz (α): Golden Retriever
Damon (α): Tortured Hero
Synopsis: Although Faye loves her enchanting life making herbal medicine with her Grams, she’s excited to start her new adventure at Scent Valley University. Her only concern is being around alphas, who she fears and mistrusts. However, her best intentions to stay the course and avoid alphas are sidelined when the impossible happens: she meets her scent matches.
Thoughts:
It is always such a pleasure to read omegaverse romances from debut authors! I am always so excited to see a new take and delve into all the ways their Omegaverse is unique. Polly Maple’s debut is cozy and familiar, with all of the best parts of Omegaverse, but I found myself utterly charmed by the different little idiosyncrasies unique to this world! Bonds and Bloom is on the cozy side of Omegaverse, perfect for low-stress, snuggly reading.
Faye is such a sweet omega that has some (well placed) mistrust for alphas, but is brave enough to leave her home to attend college. I really loved her tenacity and strength during difficult parts of her story. As for her matches, there’s the organized leader, Cole, the goofball artist, Laz, the brooding tortured hero, Damon, and the bookish hottie, Ren. It was impossible not to root for them from the start, and while I always try not to have a favorite, Ren really stole my heart.
Their romance is more of an insta-lust/insta-love situation, which seems to be the norm for scent matches in this universe.
Aside from the romance, there’s also a really emotional found family of sisterhood with Faye and the omegas in her sorority. I really loved this part of the book/Universe. I also really liked Scent Valley University as a whole and am excited to see more in the world.
I do wish there had been more emotional development with all the characters, and less insta-love, but I can’t deny that it fits with the overall tone of the book! It’s just a personal tase thing. Some alphas seemed to get to that deeper level, while others didn’t.
This is a great choice for cozy omegaverse readers, or for those looking for a light story full of hope and knots!
Spice: 2.5/5🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
The Catalog: MFMMM college omegaverse, touch starved omega, scent-matches, surprise heat, female friendship sisterhood, omega with past alpha trauma, reluctant alpha, inexperienced FMC, found family, protective alphas, heat/rut & knotting
Silverwood Pack Dynamics:
α Ω α α α
Cole (α): Pack Leader
Ren (α): Bookish
Laz (α): Golden Retriever
Damon (α): Tortured Hero
Synopsis: Although Faye loves her enchanting life making herbal medicine with her Grams, she’s excited to start her new adventure at Scent Valley University. Her only concern is being around alphas, who she fears and mistrusts. However, her best intentions to stay the course and avoid alphas are sidelined when the impossible happens: she meets her scent matches.
Thoughts:
It is always such a pleasure to read omegaverse romances from debut authors! I am always so excited to see a new take and delve into all the ways their Omegaverse is unique. Polly Maple’s debut is cozy and familiar, with all of the best parts of Omegaverse, but I found myself utterly charmed by the different little idiosyncrasies unique to this world! Bonds and Bloom is on the cozy side of Omegaverse, perfect for low-stress, snuggly reading.
Faye is such a sweet omega that has some (well placed) mistrust for alphas, but is brave enough to leave her home to attend college. I really loved her tenacity and strength during difficult parts of her story. As for her matches, there’s the organized leader, Cole, the goofball artist, Laz, the brooding tortured hero, Damon, and the bookish hottie, Ren. It was impossible not to root for them from the start, and while I always try not to have a favorite, Ren really stole my heart.
Their romance is more of an insta-lust/insta-love situation, which seems to be the norm for scent matches in this universe.
Aside from the romance, there’s also a really emotional found family of sisterhood with Faye and the omegas in her sorority. I really loved this part of the book/Universe. I also really liked Scent Valley University as a whole and am excited to see more in the world.
I do wish there had been more emotional development with all the characters, and less insta-love, but I can’t deny that it fits with the overall tone of the book! It’s just a personal tase thing. Some alphas seemed to get to that deeper level, while others didn’t.
This is a great choice for cozy omegaverse readers, or for those looking for a light story full of hope and knots!
November 2, 2025
I love a good cute and cozy omegaverse! Polly Maple did a wonderful job with this book. I loved the Silverwood pack and how they came together for Faye. And Faye! What a cutie pie. I would definitely want to be in the Stella house if I was enrolled at Scent Valley University. The female friendships in this book had me feeling like I was back with my sorority sisters in those sweet moments where you know they are always there for you. It’s such a unique idea to have people sorted into different houses based on scent compatibility. Faye’s alphas were hotties and I loved their different personalities. I’m usually a sucker for the reluctant one in the group but I switched up for Bonds & Blooms because Ren had my whole heart and more. He was so sweet and caring but when he was in the nest, he shed it all and really showed his alpha side. And when he stood up for Faye toward the end? YUM!!!
I really enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait for Kady’s book next! Thank you so much to Polly for the ARC of this book 🧡
I really enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait for Kady’s book next! Thank you so much to Polly for the ARC of this book 🧡
October 25, 2025
This was such a sweet read!
This was both all the instalove goodness while still having some angst and slow burn thanks to the broody alpha Damon. It was nice to have angst and frustration at the same time as having low anxiety relationships blooming. A perfect balance.
Faye is such a sweet and shy omega but she stands no chance once the Silverwood pack realizes that she is their scent match. All of her guys are great but fair warning, Damon in his fear might make you want to throat punch him.
I also loved the strong friendships we got to see with the Stellas. I am looking forward to seeing each of their stories unfold!
This was both all the instalove goodness while still having some angst and slow burn thanks to the broody alpha Damon. It was nice to have angst and frustration at the same time as having low anxiety relationships blooming. A perfect balance.
Faye is such a sweet and shy omega but she stands no chance once the Silverwood pack realizes that she is their scent match. All of her guys are great but fair warning, Damon in his fear might make you want to throat punch him.
I also loved the strong friendships we got to see with the Stellas. I am looking forward to seeing each of their stories unfold!
November 7, 2025
I want to attend Scent Valley University and live in Stella House! This whole university and surrounding area is so cosy! I need to go to Noodles and Chill 😂😍 I never wanted to leave this world! I loved Faye and her alphas. They were perfect for her and she was perfect for them. I don’t know if I can pick a favorite because the alphas were just so different but all so just right for her! If you like cosy omegaverse books this needs to go on your tbr to be read immediately!
November 5, 2025
Where can i find my friends like this??
This debut Novel by Polly Maple is amazing! Highly recommend if you love cozy stories with Knots, nesting and surprise heats!
We Meet Faye, a shy Omega branching out on her own away from her Grandmother for the first time. She goes to Scent Valley University where they do not discriminate against the designations. She meets her soul sisters at the Stella House. This is also where Faye runs into the Silverwood Pack.
The Silverwood pack made up of Alphas of different personalities. Im Def a Damon Girl..... If you know, you know!
The bonds in this book, both pack and friendship, were beautifully crafted. I cant wait for the next book to come out!
This debut Novel by Polly Maple is amazing! Highly recommend if you love cozy stories with Knots, nesting and surprise heats!
We Meet Faye, a shy Omega branching out on her own away from her Grandmother for the first time. She goes to Scent Valley University where they do not discriminate against the designations. She meets her soul sisters at the Stella House. This is also where Faye runs into the Silverwood Pack.
The Silverwood pack made up of Alphas of different personalities. Im Def a Damon Girl..... If you know, you know!
The bonds in this book, both pack and friendship, were beautifully crafted. I cant wait for the next book to come out!
December 17, 2025
I loved everything about this book. It was so cute. She helped heal all of them and they showed her what being loved and cherished meant. Also love that she found best friends who always have each others backs.
November 9, 2025
for a university based book not a lot of studying actually happens
November 7, 2025
1.5 stars.
November 28, 2025
I’ve been in such an Omegaverse phase, so I was so excited when I saw that this book was coming out—and it was so so cute!!
I loved the dynamics between everyone in this book! The female friendships were wonderful, each member of the pack was different and supportive of the others, and the FMC was great! She felt very realistic to me, and I loved that she grew so much in her confidence and independence while also learning how to be vulnerable.
If you’re looking for a new Omegaverse that’s super sweet, super spicy, and a little angsty, grab this one!
TROPES
Cozy College OV
Found Family
Scent Match
Knotting
Surprise Heat
Thank you so much to Polly Maple for sending me a copy for an honest review. 💖
I loved the dynamics between everyone in this book! The female friendships were wonderful, each member of the pack was different and supportive of the others, and the FMC was great! She felt very realistic to me, and I loved that she grew so much in her confidence and independence while also learning how to be vulnerable.
If you’re looking for a new Omegaverse that’s super sweet, super spicy, and a little angsty, grab this one!
TROPES
Cozy College OV
Found Family
Scent Match
Knotting
Surprise Heat
Thank you so much to Polly Maple for sending me a copy for an honest review. 💖
November 12, 2025
It was a cute story but I felt like a lot was missing in the world itself. We barely got any scenes with the classes or other campus stuff that wasn't party related. I was personally excited to see what the health botany class was gonna be like.
Now I'm not really a fan of instant lust/love but since its omega very I give it a pass since that's kinda a given lol. However I do feel like it was still rushed pretty quickly. I mean Faeye was barley in her first week of the semester and things were heating up between her and the other mmcs. I was hoping for at least a little more build up.
Speaking of the mmcs I have my likes and dislikes about them. Personally this is my how I would rate them from most liked to least liked;
1) Cole
2) Ren
3) Damon
4) Laz
I'm disappointed we didn't get more povs or interactions with Cole until further in the book since he was my personal favorite out of the alphas. Also he is the king of "talk her through it" I was going feral for him! Haha
Ren the typical nerdy guy but definitely knows what he's doing/saying. Can't go wrong with that trope.
Damon is a hit or miss for me. Normally I loooove a grumpy, tattooed bad boy but this time around it just wasn't doing it for me. His immediate presumption that Faeye was a spoiled omega to the point where he doesn't even bother to get to know her just irked me. And I know I said I wanted more build up with characters, but nearly 73% of the way into the book it too much build up and it was honestly a disappointment when he finally let go.
Lastly, Laz. To be dead honest I just did not like Laz at all. I know everyone is adult age but I just couldn't stop picturing him as a teenager. When it came to spicy scenes with him I pretty much skipped or skimmed ahead. I normally love a guy who is funny and a little goofy but with Laz it was just a bit overbearing. I hoenstly got the ick with his unicorn tattoo. The final straw for me was when he showed up right after Faeye and Cole bonded. I was looking forward to that bond the most because I really liked Cole and I just feel that special moment was ruined by Laz. Especially after it had been iterated how important it is for two newly bonded people to be left alone together for them to adjust to the bond.
As for Faeye herself, I love a good trauma healing trope but there were parts where infected disappointed with her character. I was really looking forward to her knowledge about plants and herbs and it felt like we barely got to see any of that. I also feel like she should've made the alphas grovel a lot more when the full truth of Damon's past was finally revealed. I honestly hate the "my body's instincts over my broken heart/trust" excuse. Did Damon purposely not tell her the full truth because he knew how she would react? Yes but I still feel that she should've made them grovel a bit longer instead of going straight into courtship.
Overall it wasn't a bad read, maybe if some of Faeye's povs were replaced with more of the alphas pov and maybe if Laz didn't exsist I would've enjoyed it more.
(No shade to the author about Laz, it's just my personal preference on his character and he was just not my cup of tea)
Now I'm not really a fan of instant lust/love but since its omega very I give it a pass since that's kinda a given lol. However I do feel like it was still rushed pretty quickly. I mean Faeye was barley in her first week of the semester and things were heating up between her and the other mmcs. I was hoping for at least a little more build up.
Speaking of the mmcs I have my likes and dislikes about them. Personally this is my how I would rate them from most liked to least liked;
1) Cole
2) Ren
3) Damon
4) Laz
I'm disappointed we didn't get more povs or interactions with Cole until further in the book since he was my personal favorite out of the alphas. Also he is the king of "talk her through it" I was going feral for him! Haha
Ren the typical nerdy guy but definitely knows what he's doing/saying. Can't go wrong with that trope.
Damon is a hit or miss for me. Normally I loooove a grumpy, tattooed bad boy but this time around it just wasn't doing it for me. His immediate presumption that Faeye was a spoiled omega to the point where he doesn't even bother to get to know her just irked me. And I know I said I wanted more build up with characters, but nearly 73% of the way into the book it too much build up and it was honestly a disappointment when he finally let go.
Lastly, Laz. To be dead honest I just did not like Laz at all. I know everyone is adult age but I just couldn't stop picturing him as a teenager. When it came to spicy scenes with him I pretty much skipped or skimmed ahead. I normally love a guy who is funny and a little goofy but with Laz it was just a bit overbearing. I hoenstly got the ick with his unicorn tattoo. The final straw for me was when he showed up right after Faeye and Cole bonded. I was looking forward to that bond the most because I really liked Cole and I just feel that special moment was ruined by Laz. Especially after it had been iterated how important it is for two newly bonded people to be left alone together for them to adjust to the bond.
As for Faeye herself, I love a good trauma healing trope but there were parts where infected disappointed with her character. I was really looking forward to her knowledge about plants and herbs and it felt like we barely got to see any of that. I also feel like she should've made the alphas grovel a lot more when the full truth of Damon's past was finally revealed. I honestly hate the "my body's instincts over my broken heart/trust" excuse. Did Damon purposely not tell her the full truth because he knew how she would react? Yes but I still feel that she should've made them grovel a bit longer instead of going straight into courtship.
Overall it wasn't a bad read, maybe if some of Faeye's povs were replaced with more of the alphas pov and maybe if Laz didn't exsist I would've enjoyed it more.
(No shade to the author about Laz, it's just my personal preference on his character and he was just not my cup of tea)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2025
🌺 What a lovely book! 🌺
As a long time lover and fan of all things Omegaverse, to find this book was such a joy. For readers who love…well love, this is the book for you.
Faye Nightingale (love the name) is a small town omega starting her new life at Scent Valley University, she might be shy but she knows what she wants, and a new life is it. She just didn’t know a pack was going to be part of it. After meeting all her new friends at Stella house, Faye is settling into her new life and school, but when she starts to meet members of the Silverwood Pack, all things “normal” for poor Faye get tossed right out the window.
Ren, Laz, Cole and Damon make up the Silverwood pack, for the most part, they guys meld well with each other and when Faye is found to be their scent match they are all over the moon. Well almost all of them. Each of the guys, minus Damon, because let's be fair, Damon is a special kind of broody, tries to convince Faye to give them time with her. When she agrees, each of the guys takes her on a special date, this is when things get dicey. Scent match is more than just a smell, it sends Faye into heat spikes that puts a jump start on the groups relationship. They all fall into the heat, all but Damon. In the “heat” of this (pun intended) Damon goes and puts his foot not only in his own mouth, but the mouth of every member of his pack, a foot that sends Faye running from them. Can the guys get their stuff together long enough to make it work with Faye? Can they explain? And most importantly..can Damon get over his issues and face the fact that Faye means more to him than his past?
What an adventure! For a first time author, I think Ms. Maple did a wonderful job. It takes skill to wrap a story in cozy, smut and good characters, but this one is done very well. Like many people, Damon frustrated me the most, but he was also my favorite. He’s grumpy and moody, and only soft for his Faye. Each of the guys brings something to the pack it needs, and that holds even more true with Faye, Ren is a sweetie, with his books and soft side, Laz is a total golden retriever that makes jokes and keeps things light, and then there is Cole with his protective leadership, who always knows what to do. Together these four guys, this pack, make the perfect grouping for Faye to feel safe and become who she is. I wish we all had something like this in the real world. Very much looking forward to the next installment of the series.
4 ⭐️
2.6 🌶️
Tropes:
🌸 Omegaverse
🍨 Hot Alphas
🌸 Getting Knotty
🍨 Small-town
🌸 Cozy read
As a long time lover and fan of all things Omegaverse, to find this book was such a joy. For readers who love…well love, this is the book for you.
Faye Nightingale (love the name) is a small town omega starting her new life at Scent Valley University, she might be shy but she knows what she wants, and a new life is it. She just didn’t know a pack was going to be part of it. After meeting all her new friends at Stella house, Faye is settling into her new life and school, but when she starts to meet members of the Silverwood Pack, all things “normal” for poor Faye get tossed right out the window.
Ren, Laz, Cole and Damon make up the Silverwood pack, for the most part, they guys meld well with each other and when Faye is found to be their scent match they are all over the moon. Well almost all of them. Each of the guys, minus Damon, because let's be fair, Damon is a special kind of broody, tries to convince Faye to give them time with her. When she agrees, each of the guys takes her on a special date, this is when things get dicey. Scent match is more than just a smell, it sends Faye into heat spikes that puts a jump start on the groups relationship. They all fall into the heat, all but Damon. In the “heat” of this (pun intended) Damon goes and puts his foot not only in his own mouth, but the mouth of every member of his pack, a foot that sends Faye running from them. Can the guys get their stuff together long enough to make it work with Faye? Can they explain? And most importantly..can Damon get over his issues and face the fact that Faye means more to him than his past?
What an adventure! For a first time author, I think Ms. Maple did a wonderful job. It takes skill to wrap a story in cozy, smut and good characters, but this one is done very well. Like many people, Damon frustrated me the most, but he was also my favorite. He’s grumpy and moody, and only soft for his Faye. Each of the guys brings something to the pack it needs, and that holds even more true with Faye, Ren is a sweetie, with his books and soft side, Laz is a total golden retriever that makes jokes and keeps things light, and then there is Cole with his protective leadership, who always knows what to do. Together these four guys, this pack, make the perfect grouping for Faye to feel safe and become who she is. I wish we all had something like this in the real world. Very much looking forward to the next installment of the series.
4 ⭐️
2.6 🌶️
Tropes:
🌸 Omegaverse
🍨 Hot Alphas
🌸 Getting Knotty
🍨 Small-town
🌸 Cozy read
November 23, 2025
Well, did I hate this book? No.
Did I love it? Also no.
I mean the idea of this book was beautiful but the execution left me feeling underwhelmed.
I would have liked to see more of her investing in her studies since she said they were her priority in the beginning, but I felt that all her goals and principles were secondary once she found her mates, like her whole personality changed.
It felt like the values in which her grandma raised her were propaganda, not something she really believed in, for example:
1- She said her studies were a priority and she would want to continue even if she found her pack, which I guess she did but she doesn’t mention anything interesting about what classes she’s taking. Also she only has ONE subject? It was kind of weird.
2- She was raised by a feminist but the second she has an encounter with a misogynist teacher she says NOTHING and waits for her alpha to save her? Smh.
3- Damon treats her like shit the entire book and not only does he never apologise properly but also SHE said sorry to him.
4- She had a beautiful cozy house with the Stellas and she threw it away, what? 2 months in? So she could move in with the pack.
If I had to summarise my opinion, it would be that I’m thankful this was a cozy, sweet read and plot because Faye wouldn’t have lasted a second had there been THE MINIMUM amount of drama. I guess I was expecting a strong fmc because she had everything to be one but instead got this weird “I’ll roll over and do what you want because my omega-need-to-please-others is stronger than my need to stand up for myself”.
I would’ve liked to see more of her knowledge about health botany and also WHY DIDN’T WE MEET LAZ’S FAMILY???
Also the mmcs? Yeah, no. First and foremost, justice for Laz. EVERY TIME, he was portrayed as this clumsy socially inept alpha. Cole seemed like he was there because he HAD TO. Ren was a pick me. And Damon had a victim complex.
The 🌶️ scenes were kind of standardised and a little repetitive. Also she was freaking whiny.
All in all, there were things I liked. The writing was really nice, the scenery was beautiful and all the other female characters were kind of badass, so there’s that. Also it was very comforting to see that the fmc didn’t hate women and lack the need to put them down in order to shine by herself. AAAAND NO PREGNANCY TROPE FUCKING FINALLY.
Did I love it? Also no.
I mean the idea of this book was beautiful but the execution left me feeling underwhelmed.
I would have liked to see more of her investing in her studies since she said they were her priority in the beginning, but I felt that all her goals and principles were secondary once she found her mates, like her whole personality changed.
It felt like the values in which her grandma raised her were propaganda, not something she really believed in, for example:
1- She said her studies were a priority and she would want to continue even if she found her pack, which I guess she did but she doesn’t mention anything interesting about what classes she’s taking. Also she only has ONE subject? It was kind of weird.
2- She was raised by a feminist but the second she has an encounter with a misogynist teacher she says NOTHING and waits for her alpha to save her? Smh.
3- Damon treats her like shit the entire book and not only does he never apologise properly but also SHE said sorry to him.
4- She had a beautiful cozy house with the Stellas and she threw it away, what? 2 months in? So she could move in with the pack.
If I had to summarise my opinion, it would be that I’m thankful this was a cozy, sweet read and plot because Faye wouldn’t have lasted a second had there been THE MINIMUM amount of drama. I guess I was expecting a strong fmc because she had everything to be one but instead got this weird “I’ll roll over and do what you want because my omega-need-to-please-others is stronger than my need to stand up for myself”.
I would’ve liked to see more of her knowledge about health botany and also WHY DIDN’T WE MEET LAZ’S FAMILY???
Also the mmcs? Yeah, no. First and foremost, justice for Laz. EVERY TIME, he was portrayed as this clumsy socially inept alpha. Cole seemed like he was there because he HAD TO. Ren was a pick me. And Damon had a victim complex.
The 🌶️ scenes were kind of standardised and a little repetitive. Also she was freaking whiny.
All in all, there were things I liked. The writing was really nice, the scenery was beautiful and all the other female characters were kind of badass, so there’s that. Also it was very comforting to see that the fmc didn’t hate women and lack the need to put them down in order to shine by herself. AAAAND NO PREGNANCY TROPE FUCKING FINALLY.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2025
“𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝.” 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐡 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐳𝐞𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. “𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲. 𝐒𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬. 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭.”
𝙱𝚘𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙱𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚖𝚜: 𝙰 𝚂𝚠𝚎𝚎𝚝 𝙾𝚖𝚎𝚐𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝙿𝚘𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝙼𝚊𝚙𝚕𝚎
★ ★ ★ ★ | 🌶️🌶️
⤷Bonds and Blooms is a sweet/cozy interconnected standalone romance set in Scent Valley University. I absolutely loved this book! Polly Maple had me hooked from the start and absolutely sold on all Stella girls’ stories!
⤷I really enjoyed the concept of scent sorority matching in omegaverse books. Scent always plays an important role, but I never thought of it also playing a role in friendships.
⤷ If you are looking for a sweet low-angst cozy omegaverse, this book definitely hit the mark!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✦ Sweet Omergaverse (HEA)
✦ Why Choose - FMMMM (no ⚔️)
✦ Found Family & Scent Sorority
✦ Scent Match
✦ Surprise Heat
✦ Grumpy Sunshine
✦ Hurt/Comfort
✦ He falls first
✦ Shy Omega & Protective Alphas
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
📌Faye(Ω): the small town shy plant girl
📌Ren(α): the insecure, sweet & calming bookworm
📌Damon(α): the grumpy, sulky, tortured hero
📌Laz(α): the sunshine hilarious goofball
📌Cole(α): the rich, selfless, caring pack leader
⤷ I really loved the four alphas in Pack Silverwood; they were all swoon-worthy and were all distinct characters! I definitely had a soft spot for Ren and appreciated Cole from the moment he was introduced! Laz was a great addition who lightened the mood and never failed to make me laugh!
⤷I did like Damon a lot, but I kinda disconnected with the miscommunication trope, and the resolution between him and Faye was a little too quick for my personal taste.
⤷ 100% recommend checking the character art on Polly’s Instagram
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡, 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙜𝙖.” 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨. “𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨.”
🚨𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬 & 𝐓𝐖🚨:
Interconnect standalone series, HEA, instalove, low-angst, incomplete series, discriminatory attitude (professor), parental death by murder mentioned, attempted forced bonding, tattooed peen, miscommunication, virgin fmc &mmc, reluctant mmc, group scene, aftercare,
𝙱𝚘𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙱𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚖𝚜: 𝙰 𝚂𝚠𝚎𝚎𝚝 𝙾𝚖𝚎𝚐𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝙿𝚘𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝙼𝚊𝚙𝚕𝚎
★ ★ ★ ★ | 🌶️🌶️
⤷Bonds and Blooms is a sweet/cozy interconnected standalone romance set in Scent Valley University. I absolutely loved this book! Polly Maple had me hooked from the start and absolutely sold on all Stella girls’ stories!
⤷I really enjoyed the concept of scent sorority matching in omegaverse books. Scent always plays an important role, but I never thought of it also playing a role in friendships.
⤷ If you are looking for a sweet low-angst cozy omegaverse, this book definitely hit the mark!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✦ Sweet Omergaverse (HEA)
✦ Why Choose - FMMMM (no ⚔️)
✦ Found Family & Scent Sorority
✦ Scent Match
✦ Surprise Heat
✦ Grumpy Sunshine
✦ Hurt/Comfort
✦ He falls first
✦ Shy Omega & Protective Alphas
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
📌Faye(Ω): the small town shy plant girl
📌Ren(α): the insecure, sweet & calming bookworm
📌Damon(α): the grumpy, sulky, tortured hero
📌Laz(α): the sunshine hilarious goofball
📌Cole(α): the rich, selfless, caring pack leader
⤷ I really loved the four alphas in Pack Silverwood; they were all swoon-worthy and were all distinct characters! I definitely had a soft spot for Ren and appreciated Cole from the moment he was introduced! Laz was a great addition who lightened the mood and never failed to make me laugh!
⤷I did like Damon a lot, but I kinda disconnected with the miscommunication trope, and the resolution between him and Faye was a little too quick for my personal taste.
⤷ 100% recommend checking the character art on Polly’s Instagram
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡, 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙜𝙖.” 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨. “𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨.”
🚨𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬 & 𝐓𝐖🚨:
Interconnect standalone series, HEA, instalove, low-angst, incomplete series, discriminatory attitude (professor), parental death by murder mentioned, attempted forced bonding, tattooed peen, miscommunication, virgin fmc &mmc, reluctant mmc, group scene, aftercare,
November 6, 2025
This was such a sweet and wholesome story.
Our fmc is Faye. She is literally the best. She is kind, caring, intelligent, and just so accepting. She is a genius when it comes to everything plants and is studying a plant degree to help aid her fellow omega's and anyone who needs help.
Our alpha's are Cole, Damon, Laz, and Ren. Cole is Pack Lead and is just so grounding and calm. Damon is a little older and is a little mysterious, cranky, and needs to heal. Laz is the resident funny guy of the pack and is just so happy. Ren, he is literally the best alpha and is so conforting and welcoming. They are all so different but suit Faye perfectly.
The plot was really beautiful. Faye arrives at SVU university and is immediately taken in by Stella's, her fellow house omegas. She falls into the friendship group flawlessly, which is so lovely to see. I love those girls so much. When Faye seems to think that she's got herself sorted and is ready for the year, she runs into several aphas at various times, and she can't seem to get out of her head. These particular alphas know they are hers, but due to her past, Faye is extremely cautious with all of them. Faye lowers her walls, and just when she thinks that there might be a future, someone ruins it for them all. Can these alpha's prove to Faye that she is meant for them? Can she trust them again?
I could go on and on, but I know that i'll give it away, and I want you to experience this story for yourself. I am excited to see who's next in this world. It's going to be amazing.
Congratulations, and thank you, Polly, for the opportunity to read your debut novel. It was incredible. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. I am forever grateful 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶
🌿 why choose
🌿 omegaverse
🌿 shy omega
🌿 protective mmc's
🌿 surprise heat
🌿 sweet college setting
🌿 all the omegaverse spice
🌿 multiple pov
🌿 so much more...
Our fmc is Faye. She is literally the best. She is kind, caring, intelligent, and just so accepting. She is a genius when it comes to everything plants and is studying a plant degree to help aid her fellow omega's and anyone who needs help.
Our alpha's are Cole, Damon, Laz, and Ren. Cole is Pack Lead and is just so grounding and calm. Damon is a little older and is a little mysterious, cranky, and needs to heal. Laz is the resident funny guy of the pack and is just so happy. Ren, he is literally the best alpha and is so conforting and welcoming. They are all so different but suit Faye perfectly.
The plot was really beautiful. Faye arrives at SVU university and is immediately taken in by Stella's, her fellow house omegas. She falls into the friendship group flawlessly, which is so lovely to see. I love those girls so much. When Faye seems to think that she's got herself sorted and is ready for the year, she runs into several aphas at various times, and she can't seem to get out of her head. These particular alphas know they are hers, but due to her past, Faye is extremely cautious with all of them. Faye lowers her walls, and just when she thinks that there might be a future, someone ruins it for them all. Can these alpha's prove to Faye that she is meant for them? Can she trust them again?
I could go on and on, but I know that i'll give it away, and I want you to experience this story for yourself. I am excited to see who's next in this world. It's going to be amazing.
Congratulations, and thank you, Polly, for the opportunity to read your debut novel. It was incredible. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. I am forever grateful 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶
🌿 why choose
🌿 omegaverse
🌿 shy omega
🌿 protective mmc's
🌿 surprise heat
🌿 sweet college setting
🌿 all the omegaverse spice
🌿 multiple pov
🌿 so much more...
December 5, 2025
Dnf’d
I love a good simple romance but this one didn’t really have any plot. Of course the main goal is for the heroine and heroes to get together. I dnfd at 78%
She was cute- it was a nice story and had a decent amount of smut. Only stopped reading because it felt like the story was over already
Anyway
I get having a sweet tooth but making heroine be all consumptive without any curvy girl rep was mildly frustrating but I get it, sure. Holy cow I felt like I was going to go into a diabetic coma on behalf of the heroine. 😩
Our fourth hero Damon had a hell of an attitude the whole time over some prior history he had. Leave it to a man to become so emotionally distraught by a his own history that he becomes unruly with anger and self destructive. 👀
I was not a fan of how he treated her nor did I appreciate the packs lack of response to it.
Heroine had no respect for herself. The author made the bed for traumatic history and some character development and then proceeded to rip the sheets off 😐Her reaction to Damon’s confession as an educated and incredibly mild tempered woman? Panic and leave 🚶🏻♀️➡️
Refused to hear them out and had to be forced by her friend just to learn the details and apologize to Damon as if he hasn’t been a douche the whole time. And while doing the deed- she’s incredibly vocal. The personality just didn’t line up. 🫠
The other negative twist in the book was her interaction with the professor in which she admired. His discriminatory behavior that she had absolutely no response to? But she can light a fire under the alphas when they mess up? The interactions with the professor turned useful only to be a transition into a new scene.
You’re real big into omega rights but you’ll let this common man mistreat you 👩🏻🦯 must be selectively blind.
But to be honest it’s a decent book to just pick up and read if you don’t want to feel any particular emotion thoroughly.
I love a good simple romance but this one didn’t really have any plot. Of course the main goal is for the heroine and heroes to get together. I dnfd at 78%
She was cute- it was a nice story and had a decent amount of smut. Only stopped reading because it felt like the story was over already
Anyway
I get having a sweet tooth but making heroine be all consumptive without any curvy girl rep was mildly frustrating but I get it, sure. Holy cow I felt like I was going to go into a diabetic coma on behalf of the heroine. 😩
Our fourth hero Damon had a hell of an attitude the whole time over some prior history he had. Leave it to a man to become so emotionally distraught by a his own history that he becomes unruly with anger and self destructive. 👀
I was not a fan of how he treated her nor did I appreciate the packs lack of response to it.
Heroine had no respect for herself. The author made the bed for traumatic history and some character development and then proceeded to rip the sheets off 😐Her reaction to Damon’s confession as an educated and incredibly mild tempered woman? Panic and leave 🚶🏻♀️➡️
Refused to hear them out and had to be forced by her friend just to learn the details and apologize to Damon as if he hasn’t been a douche the whole time. And while doing the deed- she’s incredibly vocal. The personality just didn’t line up. 🫠
The other negative twist in the book was her interaction with the professor in which she admired. His discriminatory behavior that she had absolutely no response to? But she can light a fire under the alphas when they mess up? The interactions with the professor turned useful only to be a transition into a new scene.
You’re real big into omega rights but you’ll let this common man mistreat you 👩🏻🦯 must be selectively blind.
But to be honest it’s a decent book to just pick up and read if you don’t want to feel any particular emotion thoroughly.
November 6, 2025
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Low Angst Omegaverse
Why Choose Romance MFMMM
Protective MMCs
Scent Matches
“Mine”
Strong female friendships
Caregiving
This has to be one of my favorite Omegaverse reads this year. Such a cute, cozy story line full of friendship, pining, knotting, nesting and a little angst too.
I am a bit new to the idea of a college Omegaverse setting, but I found the world-building surrounding the Scent Valley University campus to be fresh and unique. I really enjoyed the idea of Omega sorority-type housing based upon scent compatibility. And the strong female friendships amongst the Omegas of Stella House is arguably my favorite part of this book. Those girls are so caring and supportive — willing to drop anything in order to help one another.
Faye and each member of the Silverwood pack have their own backstory and very distinct personalities that truly round out the story. From distrusting and perhaps a little naive Faye; sweet, bookish Ren; golden retriever energy, Laz; protective and supportive Cole to Damon, the grump biker hiding a softer side. Although their personalities were vastly different, they somehow balanced one another out. (My personal favorite is Ren — he is so unbelievably soft and sweet and thoughtful. And his own personal journey to finding confidence and believing in his worthiness is so heartwarming.)
My one complaint is that I wish Faye would have made those Alphas grovel and work for her even more than she did. But that’s my preference — there can always be more groveling. 😂
All in all, I truly enjoyed and would highly recommend this cozy Omegaverse! Also, I am very excited to read more about the Omegas of Stella House in the next book and find out what happens in Kady’s story!
Low Angst Omegaverse
Why Choose Romance MFMMM
Protective MMCs
Scent Matches
“Mine”
Strong female friendships
Caregiving
This has to be one of my favorite Omegaverse reads this year. Such a cute, cozy story line full of friendship, pining, knotting, nesting and a little angst too.
I am a bit new to the idea of a college Omegaverse setting, but I found the world-building surrounding the Scent Valley University campus to be fresh and unique. I really enjoyed the idea of Omega sorority-type housing based upon scent compatibility. And the strong female friendships amongst the Omegas of Stella House is arguably my favorite part of this book. Those girls are so caring and supportive — willing to drop anything in order to help one another.
Faye and each member of the Silverwood pack have their own backstory and very distinct personalities that truly round out the story. From distrusting and perhaps a little naive Faye; sweet, bookish Ren; golden retriever energy, Laz; protective and supportive Cole to Damon, the grump biker hiding a softer side. Although their personalities were vastly different, they somehow balanced one another out. (My personal favorite is Ren — he is so unbelievably soft and sweet and thoughtful. And his own personal journey to finding confidence and believing in his worthiness is so heartwarming.)
My one complaint is that I wish Faye would have made those Alphas grovel and work for her even more than she did. But that’s my preference — there can always be more groveling. 😂
All in all, I truly enjoyed and would highly recommend this cozy Omegaverse! Also, I am very excited to read more about the Omegas of Stella House in the next book and find out what happens in Kady’s story!
December 17, 2025
I really liked this, but I hated the plot around Damon's character. He is supposed to be the "bad boy" with his aggressive demeanor, low empathy, his security job and his motorcycle and his criminal past.
He acts like an ass towards the FMC and ruins her relationship with the rest of his pack because he acts like a martyr due to his criminal past. He says about himself that he is dangerous and that his alpha side is not normal and aggressive.
Spoiler
... His criminal past is that he protected himself from a woman that drugged and assaulted him. It doesn't become 100% clear if that woman also sexually assaulted him or not, but that was her intention in drugging Damon (forcing a rut). Even like 5 years later he still feels that he failed as an alpha, because he hurt an Omega. His pack has 3 rich alphas and the members are very close with each other. But no one mentions that he needs psychological help. Not even the FMC.
In the story he is the first to bond with the Omega. That moment was just so off, because it came immediately after Damon changed his mind about staying away from her. Ugh. There was no groveling at all, which is not right since there were like two moments that looked like the FMC wouldn't ever get together with the pack.
And also, bonding to the Omega makes his tendency to explode due to a small matter disappear. Just like that.
Apparently all that Damon needed was the calm influence of a woman...
I have an issue with that, because nowhere in the story does it say that he now doesn't feel as the aggressor in his own assault anymore and his issues were so deep that even from his POVs I could not see that he liked the FMC or felt guilty about his behavior.
He acts like an ass towards the FMC and ruins her relationship with the rest of his pack because he acts like a martyr due to his criminal past. He says about himself that he is dangerous and that his alpha side is not normal and aggressive.
Spoiler
... His criminal past is that he protected himself from a woman that drugged and assaulted him. It doesn't become 100% clear if that woman also sexually assaulted him or not, but that was her intention in drugging Damon (forcing a rut). Even like 5 years later he still feels that he failed as an alpha, because he hurt an Omega. His pack has 3 rich alphas and the members are very close with each other. But no one mentions that he needs psychological help. Not even the FMC.
In the story he is the first to bond with the Omega. That moment was just so off, because it came immediately after Damon changed his mind about staying away from her. Ugh. There was no groveling at all, which is not right since there were like two moments that looked like the FMC wouldn't ever get together with the pack.
And also, bonding to the Omega makes his tendency to explode due to a small matter disappear. Just like that.
Apparently all that Damon needed was the calm influence of a woman...
I have an issue with that, because nowhere in the story does it say that he now doesn't feel as the aggressor in his own assault anymore and his issues were so deep that even from his POVs I could not see that he liked the FMC or felt guilty about his behavior.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
Bonds & Blooms - Polly Maple
55
* SPOILERS *
I’m such a huge sucker when it comes to omegaverse but it is a cozy type, I’m the happiest girl. Polly is a new author for me and man, I was hooked from the first couple of pages. I finished this in a day and I cannot wait for the next book.
I loved all four alphas from the Silverwood pack, Ren, Cole, Liz, and Damon and the perfect match for Faye and vice versa.
I will say that it took Damon some time for his broody self that he was truly worthy of Faye’s love. You’ll only love him when you discover what made him act that way.
Without a doubt, Ren is definitely my favorite alpha. He never found anyone that treated him like an alpha and I loved it so much. The connection that Ren and Faye built from the beginning was just so beautiful. And the way he stood up for her… like ohmygod, yes please! Fine I get a man that gets all growly for me like that?
I also liked the girls from the Stella house. From the beginning, the girls welcomed her in with open arms. She’s never really had close people and the fact that they showed her the love she deserved was great. I really loved how her grandmother knew without a doubt that she was with alphas and she didn’t judge her for it.
Ahh, the bonds… I love that Damon was first and that Ren was last. He deserved that spot so much. And ohhhh, the spice was so good. It was so steamy and each scene was out of this world.
Also, is there something going on with Grams and Frank? I need to know!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
55
* SPOILERS *
I’m such a huge sucker when it comes to omegaverse but it is a cozy type, I’m the happiest girl. Polly is a new author for me and man, I was hooked from the first couple of pages. I finished this in a day and I cannot wait for the next book.
I loved all four alphas from the Silverwood pack, Ren, Cole, Liz, and Damon and the perfect match for Faye and vice versa.
I will say that it took Damon some time for his broody self that he was truly worthy of Faye’s love. You’ll only love him when you discover what made him act that way.
Without a doubt, Ren is definitely my favorite alpha. He never found anyone that treated him like an alpha and I loved it so much. The connection that Ren and Faye built from the beginning was just so beautiful. And the way he stood up for her… like ohmygod, yes please! Fine I get a man that gets all growly for me like that?
I also liked the girls from the Stella house. From the beginning, the girls welcomed her in with open arms. She’s never really had close people and the fact that they showed her the love she deserved was great. I really loved how her grandmother knew without a doubt that she was with alphas and she didn’t judge her for it.
Ahh, the bonds… I love that Damon was first and that Ren was last. He deserved that spot so much. And ohhhh, the spice was so good. It was so steamy and each scene was out of this world.
Also, is there something going on with Grams and Frank? I need to know!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
November 9, 2025
MFMMM
🌶️ 2.5
⭐️ 2.5 rounded up
Tropes:
Omegaverse, College/Academy, Shy Omega, Protective Alphas, Surprise Heat in Library, Best Friends Older Brother, Special Ink on 🍆, Nerdy MMC, Only Soft For Her, Sisterhood Friendships, He bathes Her
It’s cute and low angst. If you’re in need of a palate cleanser this will be the one.
I won’t lie, the huge info dumps in the beginning and her focus on the Stella “sisters” with small glimpses of the MMC’s made it hard for me to keep a grasp onto the story. The sisterhood is cute and all but I want to read about the romance. 😮💨 20%-ish with little from the MMC’s made it hard to stay connected to the story.
Okay I’m back at 62% to add more, maybe it’s a me problem. But it’s a lot of fluff, super long paragraphs and info dumps that make it hard to keep my focus in the story.
I really like the alphas, they’re sweet and attentive. Honestly the reason why I’m still reading this is because I want to see where it goes with Damon. Poor guy.🥺
Again, it can be just a me problem. I might finish this and come back and give it a try. But so far, I’m on the fence on DNFing or just skipping to the end.
One thing I would like to mention is some of the spelling and grammar mistakes. Although they’re not as noticeable as some books I’ve read, there’s still quite a few. Even at one point there was the same sentence written twice in one dialogue. It was for example: same message. “dialogue.” same message. In three sentences two of them were word for word
I’ll post this for now but if I end up finishing I’ll update 🫶🏼
🌶️ 2.5
⭐️ 2.5 rounded up
Tropes:
Omegaverse, College/Academy, Shy Omega, Protective Alphas, Surprise Heat in Library, Best Friends Older Brother, Special Ink on 🍆, Nerdy MMC, Only Soft For Her, Sisterhood Friendships, He bathes Her
It’s cute and low angst. If you’re in need of a palate cleanser this will be the one.
I won’t lie, the huge info dumps in the beginning and her focus on the Stella “sisters” with small glimpses of the MMC’s made it hard for me to keep a grasp onto the story. The sisterhood is cute and all but I want to read about the romance. 😮💨 20%-ish with little from the MMC’s made it hard to stay connected to the story.
Okay I’m back at 62% to add more, maybe it’s a me problem. But it’s a lot of fluff, super long paragraphs and info dumps that make it hard to keep my focus in the story.
I really like the alphas, they’re sweet and attentive. Honestly the reason why I’m still reading this is because I want to see where it goes with Damon. Poor guy.🥺
Again, it can be just a me problem. I might finish this and come back and give it a try. But so far, I’m on the fence on DNFing or just skipping to the end.
One thing I would like to mention is some of the spelling and grammar mistakes. Although they’re not as noticeable as some books I’ve read, there’s still quite a few. Even at one point there was the same sentence written twice in one dialogue. It was for example: same message. “dialogue.” same message. In three sentences two of them were word for word
I’ll post this for now but if I end up finishing I’ll update 🫶🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
First off, I'd like to say how truly amazing I felt this book was and for a debut novel... WOW!
I really enjoyed the world building. It was so beautifully done, and it really felt like you were there. Which is a massive talent as an author to really transport us to the setting they've created. I thought it was clever to start off with Faye, showing us SVU through her eyes, making it much more potent. As an Omega with a bit more of a sheltered upbringing, with never having gone anywhere until then, we really felt the awe of the scene Maple was creating.
The relationships within the characters were so wonderfully written, not just the Silverwood Pack and Faye (who were absolutely gorgeous, BTW!!!) but with the Stella's ❤️🔥 the way it felt like I was instantly connected and a part of their sisterhood. The camaraderie between the Omegas was so beautifully written, the way they care for eachother, protect one another and lift each other up when one of them can't do it, it makes the read 10x more worth it.
I loved having instant insight into Damons POV. It made connecting with him so much easier. Understanding his feelings and actions from the get-go made me root for him so much harder.
I absolutely adore how the book deals with harder topics, such as loss, grief, dealing with trauma whilst remaining light-hearted, and cosy. The atmosphere of the book makes it an easy and lovely read! 🫶
I really enjoyed the world building. It was so beautifully done, and it really felt like you were there. Which is a massive talent as an author to really transport us to the setting they've created. I thought it was clever to start off with Faye, showing us SVU through her eyes, making it much more potent. As an Omega with a bit more of a sheltered upbringing, with never having gone anywhere until then, we really felt the awe of the scene Maple was creating.
The relationships within the characters were so wonderfully written, not just the Silverwood Pack and Faye (who were absolutely gorgeous, BTW!!!) but with the Stella's ❤️🔥 the way it felt like I was instantly connected and a part of their sisterhood. The camaraderie between the Omegas was so beautifully written, the way they care for eachother, protect one another and lift each other up when one of them can't do it, it makes the read 10x more worth it.
I loved having instant insight into Damons POV. It made connecting with him so much easier. Understanding his feelings and actions from the get-go made me root for him so much harder.
I absolutely adore how the book deals with harder topics, such as loss, grief, dealing with trauma whilst remaining light-hearted, and cosy. The atmosphere of the book makes it an easy and lovely read! 🫶
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