Moore or Less: A Steamy Shifter Novella

by M.A. Lakewood

She doesn't do pack life. He's never left his. Fate has a sense of humor.

When Violet’s daughter disappears one night, her frantic search brings her to Luca’s doorstep. The son of impossible alphas in a town with a reputation isn’t who she had in mind for her future, but he’s gentle, patient, and far too easy to fall for.

Between bedtime stories and stolen moments during naptime, their connection deepens until denying it isn’t an option. Warm, witty, and a little bit wicked, this small-town shifter romance proves that sometimes home looks like bad timing, messy bedrooms, and the one person who sees you—fur, flaws, and all.

___

This free steamy shifter novella is connected to the world of BECKETT FALLS and takes place after BECK AND CALL, but spoilers are minimal.

131 pages, ebook

Published October 23, 2025

About the author

Lakewood's adult fantasy romance novels could be better described as fantasy romcoms. With plenty of wit, banter, and open-door steam, each of her books offers a complete love story with a satisfying happily-ever-after. Fast pacing and laugh-out-loud moments make her interconnected standalones the perfect choice for your next palate-cleanser read.

For a high fantasy setting where everyone has magic, check out the World of Duhra.​

For a low fantasy setting where the cast is a mix of shifters and humans, check out Beckett Falls.

Reviews

[Xan · Rating 4 out of 5]

‧₊˚✧ 3.75 ✧˚₊‧
As an ARC reader for M.A. Lakewood I got my hands on this little shifter novella fairly soon, but I hadn't had the time for it, so I'm glad I got to pick it up now. Thanks to the author for the copy as well.

This novella was a cosy inbetween read for me. I didn't write down a whole lot of comments, but all of it was just so cute and I really enjoyed reading it. I am not at all a kid person, but seeing how characters interact with children often brings me joy and it was the case again in this story.

In short I can't wait for the next 'full' installment of this series. I'm looking forward to reading that in the future, but right now I really recommend this palate cleanser.

[Mrs Holm Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful shifter rom-com is simply heartwarming! Violet is a reserved character, having built walls around herself after experiencing abandonment from those she trusted, including her daughter father who denied little Zinia. However, everything changes when she meets Luca. Although they are bonded as mates, Violet struggles with her feelings, nearly causing them to lose each other. Then there's little Zinia—oh my goodness, she’s absolutely adorable! It's her first transformation without her mom by her side that sets everything in motion. When she wanders off and gets lost, an incredible love story begins to unfold.

[My_Books_In_Nooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review of ‘Moore or Less’ by MA Lakewood.

Ohh what a lovely short read this was!
This novella is staged in the world of Beckett Falls where we follow Luca and Violet.
Violet is on the road with her daughter Zini, working as a content creator when they are in the lands of Luca’s pack.
Turns out they are fated mated, and they have an instant connection.
Both characters are so lovable and their chemistry is so sweet! Even though Violet is trying hard to work against the bond pull.
I was pleasantly surprised to read more elaborate 🌶️ scenes compared to previous books, love it!!

5/5⭐️

[Ashlee Fiarris · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review
This book was a quick cute spicy shifter romance that was just what I needed. It fits into the Beck and Call world and I highly recommend reading that before this just to understand the characters a bit more. This books MMC is Luca and the FMC is Violet.
Found family, fated mates, shifters of ALL kinds of animals.

[Sairo Westwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in the early stages, read it in a handful of hours, and loved it! M.A. Lakewood is truly an amazing author, and I Love her work!!!
The back and forth, the resistance, and the kiddo are all amazing. Truly a beautiful story. I’m excited to read it again

[Distracted Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and unbelievably sweet. I can't even. A little girl just trying to form words and her mom against the world, run into a good boy that does the best he can at everything.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Vi and Luca’s story!