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The Splintered Bond #5
Pack Witch
Twenty-five years ago, I met my true mate. Instead of claiming me, he left me to die.
Somehow, I survived the pain, the shame, and the mate sickness, but I’ve paid the price for that rejection every day. When the shifter I was destined for walks back into my life, asking to be healed and begging for a second chance, I’m not sure if I can give it… or if he’ll still want me when he realizes just how thoroughly he broke me all those years ago.
Can I even be his mate if I’m not a shifter anymore?
Pack Witch is a second chance, later in life M/F standalone romance in the Splintered Bond world, set a few years after the end of Pack Rage.
Somehow, I survived the pain, the shame, and the mate sickness, but I’ve paid the price for that rejection every day. When the shifter I was destined for walks back into my life, asking to be healed and begging for a second chance, I’m not sure if I can give it… or if he’ll still want me when he realizes just how thoroughly he broke me all those years ago.
Can I even be his mate if I’m not a shifter anymore?
Pack Witch is a second chance, later in life M/F standalone romance in the Splintered Bond world, set a few years after the end of Pack Rage.
169 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2025
33 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Merri Bright
34 books674 followersOnce upon a time, Merri Bright tucked romance novels behind all her textbooks and read love stories instead of the lessons. Now she writes the same kind of books she’s always loved, dreaming up stories about naughty angels, misunderstood demons, sexy shifters, growly Alpha males, and all sorts of dragons.
She drinks cinnamon tea while she writes, and believes in the power of naps, kitten cuddles, and long walks with her dog.
Come watch Merri be socially awkward at Merri’s FB page or Instagram @merribright, or email her at merri@merribright.com.
She drinks cinnamon tea while she writes, and believes in the power of naps, kitten cuddles, and long walks with her dog.
Come watch Merri be socially awkward at Merri’s FB page or Instagram @merribright, or email her at merri@merribright.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
October 27, 2025
Miss Merri Bright has me tearing up on a Monday with this absolutely beautiful rejected mate story. I haven’t finished The Splintered Bond series, and you only need to be roughly familiar with the world for it to matter. It will still break your heart and put it right back together again-just a little sadder. Julian and Zinnia have my whole heart and now I’m off to read the rest of the series so I can reread this.
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October 18, 2025Thank you for reading Pack Witch!
Set in the Splintered Bond world a few years after the end of Pack Rage, Pack Witch is the story of Sergeant Julian Rain, his mysterious mate, and their unusual found family. If you haven’t read/finished that series, this story does have some spoilers, but it can be read as a standalone.
Julian and Zinnia may be the main characters, but I’m pretty sure anyone reading this will know why I had to write this story…and can probably guess which characters will get their own story next year (when I finish The Lost Lines series and get Spark AKA Precious done!). Bo and Leroy were never meant to be main characters, but they had me at “tallywhacker” and won’t let me go.
Pack Witch is a sweet and angsty, second chance, later-in-life, M/F rejected mate romance with a happy ending, but please be aware of the content advisories. If you note any missing ones, I’d love to hear from you! merri@merribright.com
Content Advisories: profanity, violence, blood, discussions of aging and infertility, and plenty of sex between two mature main characters.
Note: I post extra stories in this series and others for subscribers on my Ream. I’d love to have you join the group! https://reamstories.com/merribright
Set in the Splintered Bond world a few years after the end of Pack Rage, Pack Witch is the story of Sergeant Julian Rain, his mysterious mate, and their unusual found family. If you haven’t read/finished that series, this story does have some spoilers, but it can be read as a standalone.
Julian and Zinnia may be the main characters, but I’m pretty sure anyone reading this will know why I had to write this story…and can probably guess which characters will get their own story next year (when I finish The Lost Lines series and get Spark AKA Precious done!). Bo and Leroy were never meant to be main characters, but they had me at “tallywhacker” and won’t let me go.
Pack Witch is a sweet and angsty, second chance, later-in-life, M/F rejected mate romance with a happy ending, but please be aware of the content advisories. If you note any missing ones, I’d love to hear from you! merri@merribright.com
Content Advisories: profanity, violence, blood, discussions of aging and infertility, and plenty of sex between two mature main characters.
Note: I post extra stories in this series and others for subscribers on my Ream. I’d love to have you join the group! https://reamstories.com/merribright
October 20, 2025
Pack Witch should come with a free box of tissues. 😭
I was not prepared at all. I had no hand towel, or even a tissue to stop the snot crying that overtook me. 😭
Pack Witch broke my heart, tore out my soul, and ended with my heart feeling full and satisfied. 💜
I absolutely adore Bo and Leroy. ♥️ Their personalities and the funny shit that comes out of their mouths brought on some great chuckles throughout the book.
Julian and Zinnia's story is an absolute must read for those who have read The Splintered Bond series.
I was not prepared at all. I had no hand towel, or even a tissue to stop the snot crying that overtook me. 😭
Pack Witch broke my heart, tore out my soul, and ended with my heart feeling full and satisfied. 💜
I absolutely adore Bo and Leroy. ♥️ Their personalities and the funny shit that comes out of their mouths brought on some great chuckles throughout the book.
Julian and Zinnia's story is an absolute must read for those who have read The Splintered Bond series.
October 18, 2025
Emotional. Heartbreaking. Wonderful. Heartwarming.
We need more later in life romance, and we need them as exquisite as this one.
Julian was a big grump in the previous series with Florida and her fellas, and though you don't have to read that one to understand this one, you know how he was if you did. He's still quite grumpy, especially with the boys Bo and Leroy, but at least we find out why. He was kinda like a bear with a thorn in his paw. Once that pain was gone, he could be tamed. It was easy to tell he cared about people, as he fought hard to protect his pack.
Zinnia had also lived her life in great pain, but she chose to hide away from everyone. Her connection to the animals and the earth was strong, and it kept her going. It was like she was experiencing the good things in life for the very first time after Julian crashed back into her sphere of existence.
I had the best time watching these two figure it out. I chuckled. I teared up. And I rejoiced in their triumph. It was an amazing second chance, later in life story of love winning.
We need more later in life romance, and we need them as exquisite as this one.
Julian was a big grump in the previous series with Florida and her fellas, and though you don't have to read that one to understand this one, you know how he was if you did. He's still quite grumpy, especially with the boys Bo and Leroy, but at least we find out why. He was kinda like a bear with a thorn in his paw. Once that pain was gone, he could be tamed. It was easy to tell he cared about people, as he fought hard to protect his pack.
Zinnia had also lived her life in great pain, but she chose to hide away from everyone. Her connection to the animals and the earth was strong, and it kept her going. It was like she was experiencing the good things in life for the very first time after Julian crashed back into her sphere of existence.
I had the best time watching these two figure it out. I chuckled. I teared up. And I rejoiced in their triumph. It was an amazing second chance, later in life story of love winning.
October 29, 2025
“𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐚 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭. 𝐇𝐞 𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭, 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐡𝐞?”
just HOW did Merri pack so much heartache and love and foreshadowing in this novella?
i am not normally a fan of 2nd chance romances, esp when it comes to a rejected mate. and even more so when this is 25 years later. but i am SO glad i decided to read this. even tho this is a 2nd chance/rejected mate story, there is so much more to what happened and i didn’t feel like Julian wasn’t deserving of Zinnia.
but not only was this book about Zinnia and Julian, you get the secondary characters of Bo and Leroy. and if you read any of 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒅 series, you’ll know how hilarious these two young wolves are. they add the levity that children usually do to life to this heartbreaking story. but also even more information is given about their own story and finding their mate.
you don’t technically need to read 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒅 series before diving into this novellas, however it is highly recommend as you will understand this world but also characters a lot better. and this book does give spoilers to the series.
this book ends on a HEA, but you will go through some heartache before you get there. be ready for your heart to hurt.
“𝐈’𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐠𝐨, 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐚𝐳𝐞. 𝐙𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞, 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤, 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡.”
thank you Merri Bright for an e-ARC of 𝑷𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒄𝒉 ✨🐺
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
M/F, 1st person dual POV
50 fmc & 50s mmc
rejected mate, 2nd chance, fated mate, mate mark, virgin fmc, HEA, interconnected standalone
no OW drama, no OM drama, no manwhore
just HOW did Merri pack so much heartache and love and foreshadowing in this novella?
i am not normally a fan of 2nd chance romances, esp when it comes to a rejected mate. and even more so when this is 25 years later. but i am SO glad i decided to read this. even tho this is a 2nd chance/rejected mate story, there is so much more to what happened and i didn’t feel like Julian wasn’t deserving of Zinnia.
but not only was this book about Zinnia and Julian, you get the secondary characters of Bo and Leroy. and if you read any of 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒅 series, you’ll know how hilarious these two young wolves are. they add the levity that children usually do to life to this heartbreaking story. but also even more information is given about their own story and finding their mate.
you don’t technically need to read 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒅 series before diving into this novellas, however it is highly recommend as you will understand this world but also characters a lot better. and this book does give spoilers to the series.
this book ends on a HEA, but you will go through some heartache before you get there. be ready for your heart to hurt.
“𝐈’𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐠𝐨, 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐚𝐳𝐞. 𝐙𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞, 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤, 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡.”
thank you Merri Bright for an e-ARC of 𝑷𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒄𝒉 ✨🐺
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
M/F, 1st person dual POV
50 fmc & 50s mmc
rejected mate, 2nd chance, fated mate, mate mark, virgin fmc, HEA, interconnected standalone
no OW drama, no OM drama, no manwhore
October 21, 2025
Keep the tissues close by… That’s the most important advice I can give to anyone who considers picking up this novella. No worries, there is a HEA, but no victory comes without sacrifice and these characters truly learn the meaning of that. The emotions in this little book are strong, and I went through them all.
“Pack Witch” is a second chance romance story, showing some of the side characters we met in Flo’s series in a totally different way. Or in a similar way in case of Leroy and Bo, the two most adorable teenagers ever written down. I love the found family vibes in this story, and how bittersweet the storyline of the Sergeant and Zinnia feels right now. It’s a feeling that sticks around even after turning over the final page.
Whenever I love some side characters, I want to beg the author to give them their own story. So here I am requesting the story of Leroy and Bo once they grow a bit older. Although I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to see them as true adults, I really desperately want to try.
“Pack Witch” is a second chance romance story, showing some of the side characters we met in Flo’s series in a totally different way. Or in a similar way in case of Leroy and Bo, the two most adorable teenagers ever written down. I love the found family vibes in this story, and how bittersweet the storyline of the Sergeant and Zinnia feels right now. It’s a feeling that sticks around even after turning over the final page.
Whenever I love some side characters, I want to beg the author to give them their own story. So here I am requesting the story of Leroy and Bo once they grow a bit older. Although I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to see them as true adults, I really desperately want to try.
October 20, 2025
This book isn’t that long (under 200 pages) and yet it is packed full of the feels. I cried reading this, for real. It was sweet and poignant in so many ways. I love that the story centered around an older couple. Not teenagers but people who had lived and gotten the scars to prove it. There’s a found family aspect that’ll make your heart squish when the heroine and hero gain something they both always wanted but never dared to dream for.
In short, it’s a good read, I recommend it.
Many thanks to Merri Bright for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
In short, it’s a good read, I recommend it.
Many thanks to Merri Bright for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
October 21, 2025
I loved this book it had me laughing and crying. It's nice to see that the main characters are in their 50's because a lot of books they are usually in their 20's which is fine but I like that this book makes you feel like age doesn't matter and it's never too late to find your mate. I also hope that Bo and Leroy get their own story because I just love them. They really crack me up and have hearts of gold!
November 5, 2025
Pack Witch by Merri Bright a book in the Splintered Bond Series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶💀💀
This book should come with a warning. Crying in public might occur. Luckily I was at the optometrist. Lol!
I loved being back on the mountain and Flor's world. Laughing at Bo and Leroy shenanigans. Meeting up with Ida and her old lady ways. But getting to read Sergeant and Zinnia's love story, their battle, forgiveness and joining was emotional yet cathartic. Lots and lots of tears. Healing some thing in my own heart.
Tropes:
Second chance at love. Chosen family. Older MC's. Forgiveness. Groveling. Rejected mate. Healing. Witch/shifter.
Quotes:
“I assumed it was a reaction to the tattoos, or the silver in my blood. I was close to death for months.” There was a low, soft sound. Was he crying? It didn’t seem possible. He was so strong. A powerful Alpha. My inner voice whispered: my Alpha. But he wasn’t. I knew that. Still, I pretended it was true when he whispered, “Sleep, Zinnia. I’ll keep you safe now.”
“Little star?” Julian whispered. “You call me that in my dreams,” I whispered back. His amber eyes warmed. “Yes. And in the best waking moments of my entire life.”
“It’s the mark a wolf leaves on the earth,” Julian whispered, his fingers tracing mine, setting off a shower of sparks that cascaded through my body in a sensual firework. I returned the favor and smiled at the flush in his cheeks as he realized the effect of touching the new mark. “The earth gave it back to us,” I agreed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶💀💀
This book should come with a warning. Crying in public might occur. Luckily I was at the optometrist. Lol!
I loved being back on the mountain and Flor's world. Laughing at Bo and Leroy shenanigans. Meeting up with Ida and her old lady ways. But getting to read Sergeant and Zinnia's love story, their battle, forgiveness and joining was emotional yet cathartic. Lots and lots of tears. Healing some thing in my own heart.
Tropes:
Second chance at love. Chosen family. Older MC's. Forgiveness. Groveling. Rejected mate. Healing. Witch/shifter.
Quotes:
“I assumed it was a reaction to the tattoos, or the silver in my blood. I was close to death for months.” There was a low, soft sound. Was he crying? It didn’t seem possible. He was so strong. A powerful Alpha. My inner voice whispered: my Alpha. But he wasn’t. I knew that. Still, I pretended it was true when he whispered, “Sleep, Zinnia. I’ll keep you safe now.”
“Little star?” Julian whispered. “You call me that in my dreams,” I whispered back. His amber eyes warmed. “Yes. And in the best waking moments of my entire life.”
“It’s the mark a wolf leaves on the earth,” Julian whispered, his fingers tracing mine, setting off a shower of sparks that cascaded through my body in a sensual firework. I returned the favor and smiled at the flush in his cheeks as he realized the effect of touching the new mark. “The earth gave it back to us,” I agreed.
October 18, 2025
What an adorable second chance romance! We first met Sergeant, Bo and Leroy in the original Splintered Bond series and while I liked them, I really fell in love with them in this book. Bo and Leroy stole the story for me - my heart hurt reading their scenes. Those boys truly just needed some loving parents. Zinnia and Sergeant are also so sweet.
I loved The Splintered Bond and have missed the characters, so this book is a great treat for me!
I loved The Splintered Bond and have missed the characters, so this book is a great treat for me!
October 19, 2025
I was so excited for Sergeant’s story. My emotions were all over the place. What happened to Zinnia was heart breaking. I loved reading Sergeants and Zinnia’s story and their second chance. Truly an amazing read and I’m hoping for Bo and Leroy’s story. Definitely a series that everyone must one click.
I voluntarily reviewed this ARC in exchange for an honest review
I voluntarily reviewed this ARC in exchange for an honest review
October 19, 2025
Oh Merri, How do you manage to pack so many emotions into a short read?!?! I went from being annoyed on Zinnia’s behalf, to my heart breaking on both her and Sargent’s (Julian), to finding sweet humor in Bo and Leory’s boyish ways. This book hit all the best feelings and was a story I didn’t know we needed. I loved every minute of it. But previous reviews are correct, tissues were needed.
October 24, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
October 16, 2025
I love this series, I was so excited when I saw my email saying pack witch was finally available. I am so glad that sergeant has a story of this own. It's healing and heartbreaking all at the same time. There is so much pain and sacrifice that it doesn't seem far, but at the same time, there is so much love and acceptance. I adore Bo and Leroy they are just so cute. They have such the biggest hearts.
October 17, 2025
I really enjoyed Zinnia and Julian's story! It moved quickly and kept my attention.
It was filled with lots of emotional moments, there was also growth, healing, second chances, and family.
We also got humor throughout, spicy goodness, and lots of love.
This was such a beautiful read and it had the perfect ending!
It was filled with lots of emotional moments, there was also growth, healing, second chances, and family.
We also got humor throughout, spicy goodness, and lots of love.
This was such a beautiful read and it had the perfect ending!
October 17, 2025
Absolutely loved this! Merri had me glued to the page from the start. "The boys" were super cute and i hope we get to see more of their journey. I loved how far both Julian and Zinnia came in this book and seeing their story and 2nd chance unfold was beautiful.
**I received this as an ARC**
**I received this as an ARC**
October 16, 2025
I love that Sargent got a story. Zinnia is so sweet. Their story isn’t all roses but it is beautiful. Leroy and Bo make for the perfect comic relief. There were some hard moments in this but what a beautiful story.
October 16, 2025
Merri whyyyyyyyyyy
This book had me crying and I couldn’t put it down for a second!
We got a bit more of an insight to Sarge, Bo and Leroy and I love them even more
This book had me crying and I couldn’t put it down for a second!
We got a bit more of an insight to Sarge, Bo and Leroy and I love them even more
October 16, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Loved this story about Zinnia and Sergeant.
So much they went through previously. They deserved the happiness they finally found. My heart is filled with because of it.
* ARC book
Loved this story about Zinnia and Sergeant.
So much they went through previously. They deserved the happiness they finally found. My heart is filled with because of it.
* ARC book
October 24, 2025
I needed a box of tissues reading this one. This story was about Zinnia and Julian and a love that was lost but found later on.
October 17, 2025
I received a Free copy of pack witch by merri bright in a ARC in exchange for an honest review. So buckle up. here are my thoughts.
Personal thoughts:
I started this book going in almost totally blind, i had no idea who the main characters were or what their story might be. I feel like i started off at a bit of a disadvantage because i didnt finish the splintered bond series (dnf @32% of book 3 due to being in a bit of a reading funk) Dont get me wrong this story was complete and stands on its own but it leaves me with a few questions that we're likely answered in the books i hadn't read. But it gives me a reason to jump back into that world and get my answers. For this to be a novella it packs a mighty punch. So many books have this almost formulaic aspect to them; man meets young beautiful curvy woman, man saves woman, solves all her problems and gives her a bunch of babies. This story was much more realistic in terms of the romance. Things moved quickly and that was something i appreciated from a more mature couple (both in their 50s) there was no push and pull. no major miscommunication that lasts half the book, no I'm going to run away because i don't now how to communicate as an adult. Just a story of two people who couldn't meet in a past life and were blessed with the chance to meet again and start fresh.
Plot(spoiler free (mostly)
Zinnia was spurred by her mate 25 years ago and almost died after trying to chase him after he told her to forget she ever saw him for her own saftey. Julian not knowing he had just met his mate and running from his traitorous pack and trying to find saftey takes sanctuary at northern pack. 25 years later they meet again when julian is dying of what is essentially magic sickness. When they meet again the sparks are instant. No need for a push and pull. they both knew they wanted eachother. there was alittle bit of insecurity on zinnias part but julian quickly reassured her she was perfect for him. All in all this is a very sweet and cozy second chance romance, no one was malicious just an honest case of meeting the right person at the wrong time. This story feels very real, they both lost so many years with eachother and had to sacrifice for the chance to even be together its honestly bittersweet in some ways. Imagine meeting your soulmate and loosing them in the same moment only to meet up at age 50 and still have to give something up to be together, Its tragically beautiful. When beauty fades, instincts dull, and you have little to offer other than your love, does that make it more pure? if you ask me i say yes.
Honorable mentions:
Bo and leroy - i enjoyed seeing them again, especially after they've mature a bit. They bought the much appreciated humor found sprinkled throughout the book. I cant wait to see their love story, i just really hope its with a FMC and not a MMC (just because i feel like if they were attracted to the same sex they probably would be with eachother) But the nuggets she kept dropping makes it sound like it might be a MMM situation
Julian- stoic, handsome, shoulder to lean on. he recognized what he did wrong all those years ago and spent every moment re-enforcing the vow he made to never leave her again. He was thoughtful, caring, and a total silver fox.
Zinnia- The real main character of this story. sweet, charming, selfless zinnia. With the gift of earth magic and a affinity for/ with animals she really does give more mature disney princess. She will give the clothes off her back to the birds to make a nest, take a bullet (or bite) for her injured bear marta, woould break every bone in her body if it means healing one of yours. Im happy julian showed up in her life to bring her out of her shell and show her just how truly beautiful she was not because of her face but because of her intentions and spirit.
My (personal) gripes-
I know that they pretty much adopted the boys as their own but i feel like they were kind of cheated. like two weeks after claiming them as their sons they're moving several states away. I wouldve liked for them to experience the joy of actually raising kids (maybe they could've adopted as well as taking in the boys?)
There was a big sacrifice on Julian's end that wasn't really the same or equal to zinnia's sacrifice (in my opinion) Why couldn't he keep his magic :(
we didn't get to see much of julians soft side outside of him and zinnia. he was kind of a hard a++ when she wasn't around. thats not a bad thing but i would've liked if the boys or maybe something else could've softened up some of his edges. I'd love to see them in future books or possible in a longer epilogue release (wink, wink Merri)
All in all, i enjoyed this book. was it perfect? no. Was it exactly what i needed to read when i read it Yes! And its given me a reason to jump back into splintered bond for a second chance myself.
Got the arc yesterday and finished it in last night (up till 1 am)
Rating this at a solid 4.10
Great novella. It kept me engaged, the pacing was nice, and There was plenty of spice which I always appreciate when done with tact. (Which merri has a gift for)
Personal thoughts:
I started this book going in almost totally blind, i had no idea who the main characters were or what their story might be. I feel like i started off at a bit of a disadvantage because i didnt finish the splintered bond series (dnf @32% of book 3 due to being in a bit of a reading funk) Dont get me wrong this story was complete and stands on its own but it leaves me with a few questions that we're likely answered in the books i hadn't read. But it gives me a reason to jump back into that world and get my answers. For this to be a novella it packs a mighty punch. So many books have this almost formulaic aspect to them; man meets young beautiful curvy woman, man saves woman, solves all her problems and gives her a bunch of babies. This story was much more realistic in terms of the romance. Things moved quickly and that was something i appreciated from a more mature couple (both in their 50s) there was no push and pull. no major miscommunication that lasts half the book, no I'm going to run away because i don't now how to communicate as an adult. Just a story of two people who couldn't meet in a past life and were blessed with the chance to meet again and start fresh.
Plot(spoiler free (mostly)
Zinnia was spurred by her mate 25 years ago and almost died after trying to chase him after he told her to forget she ever saw him for her own saftey. Julian not knowing he had just met his mate and running from his traitorous pack and trying to find saftey takes sanctuary at northern pack. 25 years later they meet again when julian is dying of what is essentially magic sickness. When they meet again the sparks are instant. No need for a push and pull. they both knew they wanted eachother. there was alittle bit of insecurity on zinnias part but julian quickly reassured her she was perfect for him. All in all this is a very sweet and cozy second chance romance, no one was malicious just an honest case of meeting the right person at the wrong time. This story feels very real, they both lost so many years with eachother and had to sacrifice for the chance to even be together its honestly bittersweet in some ways. Imagine meeting your soulmate and loosing them in the same moment only to meet up at age 50 and still have to give something up to be together, Its tragically beautiful. When beauty fades, instincts dull, and you have little to offer other than your love, does that make it more pure? if you ask me i say yes.
Honorable mentions:
Bo and leroy - i enjoyed seeing them again, especially after they've mature a bit. They bought the much appreciated humor found sprinkled throughout the book. I cant wait to see their love story, i just really hope its with a FMC and not a MMC (just because i feel like if they were attracted to the same sex they probably would be with eachother) But the nuggets she kept dropping makes it sound like it might be a MMM situation
Julian- stoic, handsome, shoulder to lean on. he recognized what he did wrong all those years ago and spent every moment re-enforcing the vow he made to never leave her again. He was thoughtful, caring, and a total silver fox.
Zinnia- The real main character of this story. sweet, charming, selfless zinnia. With the gift of earth magic and a affinity for/ with animals she really does give more mature disney princess. She will give the clothes off her back to the birds to make a nest, take a bullet (or bite) for her injured bear marta, woould break every bone in her body if it means healing one of yours. Im happy julian showed up in her life to bring her out of her shell and show her just how truly beautiful she was not because of her face but because of her intentions and spirit.
My (personal) gripes-
I know that they pretty much adopted the boys as their own but i feel like they were kind of cheated. like two weeks after claiming them as their sons they're moving several states away. I wouldve liked for them to experience the joy of actually raising kids (maybe they could've adopted as well as taking in the boys?)
There was a big sacrifice on Julian's end that wasn't really the same or equal to zinnia's sacrifice (in my opinion) Why couldn't he keep his magic :(
we didn't get to see much of julians soft side outside of him and zinnia. he was kind of a hard a++ when she wasn't around. thats not a bad thing but i would've liked if the boys or maybe something else could've softened up some of his edges. I'd love to see them in future books or possible in a longer epilogue release (wink, wink Merri)
All in all, i enjoyed this book. was it perfect? no. Was it exactly what i needed to read when i read it Yes! And its given me a reason to jump back into splintered bond for a second chance myself.
Got the arc yesterday and finished it in last night (up till 1 am)
Rating this at a solid 4.10
Great novella. It kept me engaged, the pacing was nice, and There was plenty of spice which I always appreciate when done with tact. (Which merri has a gift for)
October 27, 2025
Rounding up to 4. A witch ex-shifter, and older MC's? That totally caught my attention. I never read the previous books in the series, but I had no problems following.
In the beginning, I was in disbelief. Based on what younger Zinnia witnessed between Julian and his sister, it was obvious that Julian needed to escape from something hunting him and his family. But Zinnia sort of made it all about her. And then became a recluse...a virgin recluse. Of course Julian wasn't a virgin. It's fine to be a virgin or asexual or whatever..but it's always the FMC. And I was expecting Julian "rejecting" Zinnia to be for other reasons...like a true rejection...full of extra long drama, angst and groveling. Could it really be considered a rejection if Julian had no idea that he rejected his mate due to his magic and wolf senses being heavily muted? And Zinnia could have learned about Julian's dilemma earlier if she had actually revealed her mate to Ida instead of being so "Leave me alone!" emo for 25 years.
But the story did get better for me once I got over all the above. And I started being more understanding of their situation and how mate bonds work. Plus Julian isn't an asshole so I can't expect him to have rejected Zinnia for malicious reasons. I did like how Julian was written. He wasn't an obnoxious overly heroic alpha I would roll my eyes at. And I thought the two teens were incredibly amusing. Honestly, I found their sub-plot a little more interesting. I could read a whole book about how all three came together and their journey..with Julian and Zinnia's romance in the background. For some reason I'm reminded of "Lone Wolf and Cub" vibes, but with two "cubs". But Zinnia, Julian, Bo and Leroy did make a wonderful found family.
It had some fluff moments, but they were welcomed. And the whole connection with the Moon and the Earth was super interesting.
Normally, I'm not interested in books that are solely about shifter romance/omegaverse. I think this book was a pretty good way to dip my toes into the genre.
In the beginning, I was in disbelief. Based on what younger Zinnia witnessed between Julian and his sister, it was obvious that Julian needed to escape from something hunting him and his family. But Zinnia sort of made it all about her. And then became a recluse...a virgin recluse. Of course Julian wasn't a virgin. It's fine to be a virgin or asexual or whatever..but it's always the FMC. And I was expecting Julian "rejecting" Zinnia to be for other reasons...like a true rejection...full of extra long drama, angst and groveling. Could it really be considered a rejection if Julian had no idea that he rejected his mate due to his magic and wolf senses being heavily muted? And Zinnia could have learned about Julian's dilemma earlier if she had actually revealed her mate to Ida instead of being so "Leave me alone!" emo for 25 years.
But the story did get better for me once I got over all the above. And I started being more understanding of their situation and how mate bonds work. Plus Julian isn't an asshole so I can't expect him to have rejected Zinnia for malicious reasons. I did like how Julian was written. He wasn't an obnoxious overly heroic alpha I would roll my eyes at. And I thought the two teens were incredibly amusing. Honestly, I found their sub-plot a little more interesting. I could read a whole book about how all three came together and their journey..with Julian and Zinnia's romance in the background. For some reason I'm reminded of "Lone Wolf and Cub" vibes, but with two "cubs". But Zinnia, Julian, Bo and Leroy did make a wonderful found family.
It had some fluff moments, but they were welcomed. And the whole connection with the Moon and the Earth was super interesting.
Normally, I'm not interested in books that are solely about shifter romance/omegaverse. I think this book was a pretty good way to dip my toes into the genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
I'm really enjoying these older shifter romances in the Splintered Bond universe. Julian and Zinnia reconnect after Julian rejected Zinnia twenty five years ago but all is not as it seems. Although its a short novella, there is still plenty of character development packed in as Zinnia allows herself to open up to a future she never thought she would have, and Sergeant comes to terms with his past actions. I loved seeing Sergeant's softer side not only with Zinnia but also with Bo and Leroy.
This may be a second chance romance but the found family element was the stand out for me. The last few chapters were so emotional and really tugged on my heart strings; Bo and Leroy have come so far from those 13 year old kids we met in Pack Reject and I really hope they get their own story. I cannot wait to see who they end up with as a mate!
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
This may be a second chance romance but the found family element was the stand out for me. The last few chapters were so emotional and really tugged on my heart strings; Bo and Leroy have come so far from those 13 year old kids we met in Pack Reject and I really hope they get their own story. I cannot wait to see who they end up with as a mate!
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
November 3, 2025
What should have been one of the best days of her life turned into the worst. Her mate rejected her. She chased him until her body gave out, but he never looked back. She barely survived, and she lost a vital part of herself that day. Now she's being asked to help save him. He doesn't even recognize her, but his wolf does. He wants a second chance, but it's too late.
This second-chance, found-family story broke my heart and handed it back to me in a moonlit garden. Warn a reader before taking them through the emotional ringer. This is a story of a lifetime of loss due to an accidental mistake forced by danger, fear, and magic. Zinnia and Sargeant both paid deeply for an ill-timed meeting. Neither deserved the life they were handed, yet history needed the path of the star-crossed lovers to play out as it did, so Sargeant could play his role saving the wolf's world in the “Splintered Bond” series. It seemed a steep price to pay but ultimately proved that it's never too late to get what you never dared to dream about. I was touched to tears. Zinnia's power was so unique and powerful, and her spirit so wholesome. She was the perfect counterpart to the rough and deadly Sergeant. It was lovely to see the softer side of Julian emerge with her. Leroy and Bo were adorable, and it was nice to get a glimpse of their future. The humor they bring is much appreciated. I adore them but admit I felt a little cheated that we weren't treated to more family time. I wish they could have stayed longer. I know we will meet again. I can't imagine the mate the Moon has picked out for these two!
This second-chance, found-family story broke my heart and handed it back to me in a moonlit garden. Warn a reader before taking them through the emotional ringer. This is a story of a lifetime of loss due to an accidental mistake forced by danger, fear, and magic. Zinnia and Sargeant both paid deeply for an ill-timed meeting. Neither deserved the life they were handed, yet history needed the path of the star-crossed lovers to play out as it did, so Sargeant could play his role saving the wolf's world in the “Splintered Bond” series. It seemed a steep price to pay but ultimately proved that it's never too late to get what you never dared to dream about. I was touched to tears. Zinnia's power was so unique and powerful, and her spirit so wholesome. She was the perfect counterpart to the rough and deadly Sergeant. It was lovely to see the softer side of Julian emerge with her. Leroy and Bo were adorable, and it was nice to get a glimpse of their future. The humor they bring is much appreciated. I adore them but admit I felt a little cheated that we weren't treated to more family time. I wish they could have stayed longer. I know we will meet again. I can't imagine the mate the Moon has picked out for these two!
November 1, 2025
Beautiful and original take on rejected mates, heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure
I was very lucky to receive an ARC and was warned by the Author that this would be a tear jerker... I mean this book had me ugly crying for the whole first half and then again in the final few chapters.
Such an original take on the rejected mate trope, I won't spoil the twist but it’s tender, touching, and deeply moving in so many ways. I especially loved that it focuses on an older couple, not teenagers, but people who’ve truly lived and bear the marks of their experiences. The found family element was both hilarious and heartwarming, especially when the heroine and hero finally find something they’ve both longed for but never thought they’d have.
My only complaint is that I didn't want it to end, it's a shorter book so don't get caught out like I did and prepare to be left wanting more.
I was very lucky to receive an ARC and was warned by the Author that this would be a tear jerker... I mean this book had me ugly crying for the whole first half and then again in the final few chapters.
Such an original take on the rejected mate trope, I won't spoil the twist but it’s tender, touching, and deeply moving in so many ways. I especially loved that it focuses on an older couple, not teenagers, but people who’ve truly lived and bear the marks of their experiences. The found family element was both hilarious and heartwarming, especially when the heroine and hero finally find something they’ve both longed for but never thought they’d have.
My only complaint is that I didn't want it to end, it's a shorter book so don't get caught out like I did and prepare to be left wanting more.
October 18, 2025
This novella is dual POV, excellently written and well edited, and an angsty, fated mates, second chance, chronologically older, female (ex)wolf shifter witch (Zinnia)/male wolf shifter alpha (Julian), fantasy romance. I empathised with both characters long term chronic pain and other health concerns. I enjoyed Zinnia’s persistence and mental strength. I enjoyed Julian’s perseverance. I enjoyed Julian’s adopted young adult sons and their meaningful contribution to the story. I enjoyed the way Zinnia and Julian actively worked through their emotions and history to build a relationship, including steamy physical intimacy. I enjoyed the set up for the sons’ story. Whilst this story is set in an existing world, it genuinely stands alone, though I imagine it is enhanced if you have read the other stories.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
October 23, 2025
I loved this so much!!
I laughed and cried so much throughout this story, seriously with all the screen time my favorite dynamic duo got and the gut wrenching rejection and reunion for Sargent and his witch it was spectacular! Bo & Leroy had so many hijinks and southernisms interwoven with bonding moments between them and the MCs I really got to know their characters better and that alone would make me happy. But weaved throughout all of that was an emotional later in life romance that ensured this little novel packed a punch.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ - the smut was perfect! It wasn’t kinky but it was hot as hell.
PNR RomCom
Witchy Romance
Shifters
Second Chance
Rejected Mates
Later in Life Romance
Found Family
I laughed and cried so much throughout this story, seriously with all the screen time my favorite dynamic duo got and the gut wrenching rejection and reunion for Sargent and his witch it was spectacular! Bo & Leroy had so many hijinks and southernisms interwoven with bonding moments between them and the MCs I really got to know their characters better and that alone would make me happy. But weaved throughout all of that was an emotional later in life romance that ensured this little novel packed a punch.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ - the smut was perfect! It wasn’t kinky but it was hot as hell.
PNR RomCom
Witchy Romance
Shifters
Second Chance
Rejected Mates
Later in Life Romance
Found Family
October 24, 2025
Pack Witch is book five in the Splintered Bond Series. It is a standalone, paranormal, later in life, M/F, second chance romance. The story is told in first person, dual POV.
This was a quick, but fantastic read that I very much enjoyed. Julian and Linnia's story broke my heart, then slowly patched it back together. I went through all the emotions with this story. I also absolutely adored all of the characters, both main and secondary. They were all so amazing.
The writing, pace, flow, plot, and characters were all amazing, as were the character development, relationship development, storytelling, storyline, and world building. If you are into emotional second chance romances with terrific characters, then definitely pick this book up.
This was a quick, but fantastic read that I very much enjoyed. Julian and Linnia's story broke my heart, then slowly patched it back together. I went through all the emotions with this story. I also absolutely adored all of the characters, both main and secondary. They were all so amazing.
The writing, pace, flow, plot, and characters were all amazing, as were the character development, relationship development, storytelling, storyline, and world building. If you are into emotional second chance romances with terrific characters, then definitely pick this book up.
October 25, 2025
This was such a great read that really pulled all the emotions out of me. My heart about broke for Zinnia but certainly our grumpy Sergeant/Julian has not had any kind of easy life. This is a second chance romance for these two, and while I'm sad that they're only getting their HEA in their 50s, they do get an amazing one. Of course, they both have all the scars to show for the years they've been apart. There is also a wonderful family found theme with Bo and Leroy, who both cracked me up with their antics ;) This was a page turner for me, and I read it in one setting. Expect to get caught up in the drama, danger, action, humour, chemistry and spicy romance when you dive into this one :D So good and I'm looking forward to more Splintered Bond stories ;D
October 25, 2025
Dipping back into this world of Merri Bright's shifters is super fun. This was a sweetly romantic story about an older couple who never quite made the connection with their wolves - she knew they were mates, he told her to get away - its complicated. 25 years later, they meet again in completely different circumstances and its not an easy insta-love kind of thing. 2 familiar characters are very important in this story and they have grown a tiny amount since we last saw them - but they will still have you chuckling every time they speak! This is a really emotional book which is a stand alone, its definitely steamy, but mostly it has a bunch of magic and a whole lot of heart! Loved it. Fingers crossed we see certain people meet their mate too, eventually 😉
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