What do you think?
Rate this book
This Mate Thing
How long can you lie to your mate?
Boris Gifford is one lucky wolf! A few months ago, he found his mate, which is a blessing. There is just one problem. Simon is human, and in his excitement, Boris might have charged right at him in his wolf form, scaring him half to death.
Since then, he’s worked himself into Simon and his son’s lives, using food as bribes. But Simon doesn’t trust easily, and he’s very protective of his son. The more time that passes, the more worried Boris gets. He has to tell Simon the truth, but Simon doesn’t believe in anything supernatural, he’s terrified of wolves, and he doesn't believe in soulmates.
Boris knows he has to come clean, but what if Simon rejects him when he realizes what he is?
Boris Gifford is one lucky wolf! A few months ago, he found his mate, which is a blessing. There is just one problem. Simon is human, and in his excitement, Boris might have charged right at him in his wolf form, scaring him half to death.
Since then, he’s worked himself into Simon and his son’s lives, using food as bribes. But Simon doesn’t trust easily, and he’s very protective of his son. The more time that passes, the more worried Boris gets. He has to tell Simon the truth, but Simon doesn’t believe in anything supernatural, he’s terrified of wolves, and he doesn't believe in soulmates.
Boris knows he has to come clean, but what if Simon rejects him when he realizes what he is?
186 pages, ebook
Published November 8, 2025
About the author
Holly Day
71 books173 followersAccording to Holly Day, no day should go by uncelebrated and all of them deserve a story. If she’ll have the time to write them remains to be seen. She lives in rural Sweden with a husband, four children, more pets than most, and wouldn’t last a day without coffee.
Holly gets up at the crack of dawn most days of the week to write gay romance stories. She believes in equality in fiction and in real life. Diversity matters. Representation matters. Visibility matters. We can change the world one story at the time.
Holly gets up at the crack of dawn most days of the week to write gay romance stories. She believes in equality in fiction and in real life. Diversity matters. Representation matters. Visibility matters. We can change the world one story at the time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 1, 2026
This book is close to perfection.
It has the author's usual unhurried pacing without it being too slow, which I love and take comfort in. The characters are fleshed out and have distinctive voices, and I love how even Simon's son Ira has a development throughout this story. The writing really is amazing. There is depth.
And they might say that Boris lacks a few brain cells but I know this isn't true. He handles Simon with more care and caution than people give him credit for. Though he still gently pushes when needed, even though Simon doesn't like it at first, but then Simon is way too set on keeping Boris - well, anyone - from helping him and his son. No surprise, because he had to do everything in his life on his own, so the way he slowly accepts that Boris isn't going anywhere is a beautiful process to witness.
So yeah, very good story.
It has the author's usual unhurried pacing without it being too slow, which I love and take comfort in. The characters are fleshed out and have distinctive voices, and I love how even Simon's son Ira has a development throughout this story. The writing really is amazing. There is depth.
And they might say that Boris lacks a few brain cells but I know this isn't true. He handles Simon with more care and caution than people give him credit for. Though he still gently pushes when needed, even though Simon doesn't like it at first, but then Simon is way too set on keeping Boris - well, anyone - from helping him and his son. No surprise, because he had to do everything in his life on his own, so the way he slowly accepts that Boris isn't going anywhere is a beautiful process to witness.
So yeah, very good story.
December 8, 2025
This is another wonderful book by this author. It is a fun and sweet read. It is low angst and will make you smile as you read it. This is the story of Boris Gifford and Simon Towne. Boris is a wolf shifter and when he scented his fated mate in a nature preserve. Reacting without thinking he immediately charged toward the addictive scent. It was there that he found a human and a child. Believing himself to be under attack, he shoves Ira behind him and throws rocks at the wolf to scare him off. Simon is the human in question. He went from single to being a single dad when his sister died. He promised her to look after Ira and that is exactly what he is going to do. And since the nature preserve hike, he now has a fear of wolves. Now Boris has to figure out how to subtly insert himself into their lives. He can't woo and protect his mate if he doesn't speak to him or spend time with him. Boris is like a springer spaniel puppy. He is happy, loud and exuberant. And he desperately wants to be with his mate and son. But neither Ira nor Simon know about shifters. And when Boris just spouts out what he is, Simon starts eyeing the door and thinks Boris is a few fries short of a happy meal. And all of Boris's packmates try to help Boris win over his mate. This book is very well written and is easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. It is a fun read that will have you smiling as you read it. I loved this book!
December 15, 2025
I’ve enjoyed the other werewolf stories that Holly Day has written, but This Mate Thing is easily the best. I know I’ve given five stars to some/most of the others, but this has set a new bar for this author. What I liked best was that the eponymous mate, Simon, at first was totally unaware of being a mate and then, once the wolf Boris described it poorly, Simon thought it sounded not good (not really a spoiler). Simon did not see much advantage in being a mate, so kept the status quo that he was comfortable with, both for his own sake and that of his son, Ira. Eventually some doubts crept into Simon’s thinking, maybe not as many as a more cautious woman would dream up, but enough to make a change of mind not just a plot trigger. In addition to Simon questioning this mate thing, we see the effects of not implementing this mate thing in detail on Boris. The introspection on both sides is offset with a couple of school projects of Ira’s that Boris takes over to get done. I’m not usually a fan of kids in books, but I liked Ira. It was fun to see how the ups and downs between Boris and Simon affected him in a very real way. This is a great holiday story, bringing out themes of acceptance and joy in a new generation, both intentionally appropriate. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
Loved this!
I’m a huge sucker for human/shifter fated mates stories, especially if the human is an unaware one. When I read the premise to this story, I knew I had to give it a try, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Simon and Boris’s story has a slightly different feel to it than most fated mate stories, especially human/shifter, do. I appreciated Simon’s struggle not only to protect his adorable son, Ira, but also his struggle to believe Boris’s true nature.
Boris has a friend, Zahrah, and I loved both her and her dynamic with Boris.
This isn’t the spiciest book I’ve ever read, and I appreciate that. While I love MM novels, my favorite ones are where there is an actual plot, not ones where I feel like I’m just reading glorified porn. Due to Simon’s reluctance to put himself out there, the ‘claiming’ comes much later in this romance. Again, with the quality of the story, I’m totally ok with that.
I enjoyed this book so much, I read it in one really relaxing Sunday. I know I’ll reread it on occasion, am keeping my fingers crossed that maybe we get to see these characters again, and totally recommend this as a great way to spend a few relaxing hours with some hot tea!
I’m a huge sucker for human/shifter fated mates stories, especially if the human is an unaware one. When I read the premise to this story, I knew I had to give it a try, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Simon and Boris’s story has a slightly different feel to it than most fated mate stories, especially human/shifter, do. I appreciated Simon’s struggle not only to protect his adorable son, Ira, but also his struggle to believe Boris’s true nature.
Boris has a friend, Zahrah, and I loved both her and her dynamic with Boris.
This isn’t the spiciest book I’ve ever read, and I appreciate that. While I love MM novels, my favorite ones are where there is an actual plot, not ones where I feel like I’m just reading glorified porn. Due to Simon’s reluctance to put himself out there, the ‘claiming’ comes much later in this romance. Again, with the quality of the story, I’m totally ok with that.
I enjoyed this book so much, I read it in one really relaxing Sunday. I know I’ll reread it on occasion, am keeping my fingers crossed that maybe we get to see these characters again, and totally recommend this as a great way to spend a few relaxing hours with some hot tea!
December 8, 2025
This is a warm, gentle take on the fated-mates trope, with a lovely balance of humour, tension, and heartfelt moments. Boris’s eagerness to win over Simon—while hiding the rather significant detail of being a wolf shifter—makes for an endearing set-up, especially as Simon’s protectiveness over his son adds real emotional weight to his reluctance.
What I especially liked was how gradual their bond feels. Simon’s disbelief in anything supernatural, combined with his fear of wolves, gives the story a quieter, more grounded tone than many human/shifter romances. Boris’s patience, along with the support of his friend Zahrah, creates space for trust to build naturally rather than instantly.
It’s low-spice, character-driven, and very easy to sink into—perfect for a cosy, comforting read with a sweet, hopeful payoff.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I especially liked was how gradual their bond feels. Simon’s disbelief in anything supernatural, combined with his fear of wolves, gives the story a quieter, more grounded tone than many human/shifter romances. Boris’s patience, along with the support of his friend Zahrah, creates space for trust to build naturally rather than instantly.
It’s low-spice, character-driven, and very easy to sink into—perfect for a cosy, comforting read with a sweet, hopeful payoff.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2025
👨👦Cute play for single dad & son🐺
4.5🌟 stars
This fated mates with a human MM romance was fun. Boris the wolf shifted acts like an exuberant puppy in his efforts to woo Simon, a human single dad who he knows is THE ONE for him. Even with cautionary advice from his best friend in the pack he can't stop himself from coming on like gang busters. And Simon, unfortunately, doesn't understand why the new neighbor across the street is in a hurry to insert himself into his life. Ira, Simon's young son, turns out to be the crucial bridge to the relationship.
It's cute and upbeat, with Boris worming his way into their hearts and stomaches!
And it's great for the season too, with Christmas lists and mystery presents under the tree.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4.5🌟 stars
This fated mates with a human MM romance was fun. Boris the wolf shifted acts like an exuberant puppy in his efforts to woo Simon, a human single dad who he knows is THE ONE for him. Even with cautionary advice from his best friend in the pack he can't stop himself from coming on like gang busters. And Simon, unfortunately, doesn't understand why the new neighbor across the street is in a hurry to insert himself into his life. Ira, Simon's young son, turns out to be the crucial bridge to the relationship.
It's cute and upbeat, with Boris worming his way into their hearts and stomaches!
And it's great for the season too, with Christmas lists and mystery presents under the tree.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
January 1, 2026
I was giddy and smiling the entire time I read this book. I don’t know if it’s the story or the author has amazing writing style but it’s been a while since I’ve read such a good book.
The story was a bit out there and honestly unrealistic but somehow I managed to entirely enjoy myself thoroughly. I really liked Boris - his naivety didn’t annoy me and Simon’s constant denial also didn’t annoy me so overall that had a lot going for it.
I guess I wish there was more angst - I like having an emotional roller coaster while reading; but I also felt like I didn’t quite get to see Simon’s emotional development for Boris. I also had hoped for an epilogue where we saw farther into the future but we didn’t quite get that far.
I’m going to go and search up the rest of Day’s books and gobble them up. Ciao
The story was a bit out there and honestly unrealistic but somehow I managed to entirely enjoy myself thoroughly. I really liked Boris - his naivety didn’t annoy me and Simon’s constant denial also didn’t annoy me so overall that had a lot going for it.
I guess I wish there was more angst - I like having an emotional roller coaster while reading; but I also felt like I didn’t quite get to see Simon’s emotional development for Boris. I also had hoped for an epilogue where we saw farther into the future but we didn’t quite get that far.
I’m going to go and search up the rest of Day’s books and gobble them up. Ciao
January 3, 2026
4 stars
I liked this story very much, especially because there's no instant love for both the MC, but one of them actually rejects the other and struggles a lot about the "shifting into a wolf" thing.
I think it was all well executed: Boris' strong feelings toward his mate, his plans to make him fall in love, all his hilarious internal monologues, him getting close to his mate's son, Simon's struggles in being a single parent, his uncertainty and fears about letting Ira getting too attached to Boris, him feeling the bond for the first time. And Ira was so freaking adorable.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Too many things were left unexplained: did Simon find another job? Did he see Boris in his wolf form after their mating? How come Ira is so fascinated by wolves? Does he know about Boris?
The end was too abrupt, I definitely needed more.
I liked this story very much, especially because there's no instant love for both the MC, but one of them actually rejects the other and struggles a lot about the "shifting into a wolf" thing.
I think it was all well executed: Boris' strong feelings toward his mate, his plans to make him fall in love, all his hilarious internal monologues, him getting close to his mate's son, Simon's struggles in being a single parent, his uncertainty and fears about letting Ira getting too attached to Boris, him feeling the bond for the first time. And Ira was so freaking adorable.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Too many things were left unexplained: did Simon find another job? Did he see Boris in his wolf form after their mating? How come Ira is so fascinated by wolves? Does he know about Boris?
The end was too abrupt, I definitely needed more.
December 3, 2025
Boris was the most adorable, clueless cutie
I absolutely loved this! Boris was hilarious and the cutest, clueless guy. I loved how much he wanted to just grab Simon up and give him all the love and how much he just accepted that Ira was going to be his son to care for and love. Boris' pack was also hilarious. I loved that they were so willing to just help out where they could with Simon and Ira but were also very willing to make gentle fun of Boris. It was highly amusing whenever Simon would say something about wolves and they'd all snicker about poor Boris' mis-steps. Zahrah is absolutely the kind of friend who is there for you thick and thin but will also absolutely tease you. I loved her and Boris' relationship and genuine care for each other. She absolutely teased Boris but also was there to provide support and advice (even if it wasn't always helpful, it came from a place of genuine love). I really felt for Simon; he came across as someone who needed someone to talk to and who had isolated himself (for protective reasons) to the extent that he'd become very lonely. Honestly, he seemed outright depressed at the beginning of the book and I was glad that he had someone (even if he wasn't aware of it) willing to try to help and reduce the enormous weight on his shoulders. I'll admit though, there were a few times I wanted to smack him upside the head or give him a quick shake. The way he treated Boris at times made me kind of angry at him - Boris was such a kind, gentle soul and seeing him hurt so badly because Simon's first, second and thirds reactions were fear was awful. Love that Ira had a good head on his shoulders though and that will have obviously come from Simon being such a good dad. This was a Holly book though, so even when I was frustrated with Simon I knew she'd make the ending lovely with a wonderful HEA and I was not wrong.
I absolutely loved this! Boris was hilarious and the cutest, clueless guy. I loved how much he wanted to just grab Simon up and give him all the love and how much he just accepted that Ira was going to be his son to care for and love. Boris' pack was also hilarious. I loved that they were so willing to just help out where they could with Simon and Ira but were also very willing to make gentle fun of Boris. It was highly amusing whenever Simon would say something about wolves and they'd all snicker about poor Boris' mis-steps. Zahrah is absolutely the kind of friend who is there for you thick and thin but will also absolutely tease you. I loved her and Boris' relationship and genuine care for each other. She absolutely teased Boris but also was there to provide support and advice (even if it wasn't always helpful, it came from a place of genuine love). I really felt for Simon; he came across as someone who needed someone to talk to and who had isolated himself (for protective reasons) to the extent that he'd become very lonely. Honestly, he seemed outright depressed at the beginning of the book and I was glad that he had someone (even if he wasn't aware of it) willing to try to help and reduce the enormous weight on his shoulders. I'll admit though, there were a few times I wanted to smack him upside the head or give him a quick shake. The way he treated Boris at times made me kind of angry at him - Boris was such a kind, gentle soul and seeing him hurt so badly because Simon's first, second and thirds reactions were fear was awful. Love that Ira had a good head on his shoulders though and that will have obviously come from Simon being such a good dad. This was a Holly book though, so even when I was frustrated with Simon I knew she'd make the ending lovely with a wonderful HEA and I was not wrong.
December 7, 2025
Boris is wolf shifter and has found his mate.
Unfortunately, Simon is a human and unaware of shifters.
Boris has no clue about anything concerning humans and basically terrifies Simon and his son Elias.
Simon is a single dad who's struggling financially and Boris just wants to throw money at problems but Simon is very proud and stubborn.
I laughed out loud at Boris's ridiculous hijinks concerning Simon and convincing him to be his mate.
I absolutely adored how easily the pack accepted Simon and Elias, and they really loved that kid.
Unfortunately, Simon is a human and unaware of shifters.
Boris has no clue about anything concerning humans and basically terrifies Simon and his son Elias.
Simon is a single dad who's struggling financially and Boris just wants to throw money at problems but Simon is very proud and stubborn.
I laughed out loud at Boris's ridiculous hijinks concerning Simon and convincing him to be his mate.
I absolutely adored how easily the pack accepted Simon and Elias, and they really loved that kid.
May 17, 2026
Boris is a bit overzealous about his mate. With the help of his BFF, he manages to stay out of jail. Simon is a single dad who is barely hanging on with layoffs looming, judgmental moms at the pickup lines, and a fear of wolves after one ran up to his son on an outing. Boris pushes past Simon's walls, falls in love with his son, and learns to see things from Simon's perspective. Simon learns to trust that Boris and his pack will always have his back, that he doesn't have to do life alone anymore.
Highly recommended author
Highly recommended author
December 21, 2025
I love, love, loved this story!
Boris was utterly clueless but so very lovable it's one of those stories where there is no action, no mystery, no suspense, but it still takes you along for a rid; one that you don't want to stop. It was a beautiful story that relied purely on its characters, and what beautiful characters they were! Not just Boris and Simon, but the entire cast including Simon's 'son' Ira but also Boris' friends and family.
One of Holly Day's longer stories and I loved every page!
Highly Recommended!
January 4, 2026
First read of 2026 and off to a great start. I enjoyed Boris and his approach to getting to know his human mate. He showed so much patience and grace and allowing Simon to find him at his own pace. A book for slow burn and emotion led relationships.
Write quality was okay, had a good story flow and enjoyed getting to know some of the pack through Boris and how accepting they were of Ira! <3
Cute family romance. Heavy emotion.
Write quality was okay, had a good story flow and enjoyed getting to know some of the pack through Boris and how accepting they were of Ira! <3
Cute family romance. Heavy emotion.
January 13, 2026
Simon and Ira were wonderful. They really deserved all the care Boris was ready to smother them with but man, Boris was a freaking steamroller. He kinda gave off some 'stranger danger' vibes at times 🤦🏾♀️. Poor Simon didn't stand a chance.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by BookSirens*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by BookSirens*
November 9, 2025
Awww I loved this. I've read pretty much everything Holly Day has written and this one is my new favorite. This story seemed more detailed than her average stories. I love the short and sweet little afternoon reads but this one just seems a little more fleshed out. Five stars.
November 9, 2025
How can you not love a Christmas story with a line like this…”You’re safe, and you’re cared for”! I love Holly’s “day” books. And this one is just so good!
November 14, 2025
Sweet
So cute, sweet, funny and made me cry!! Holly is a new author for me but I loved their style and sass. Plus made me laugh so much!!
So cute, sweet, funny and made me cry!! Holly is a new author for me but I loved their style and sass. Plus made me laugh so much!!
February 1, 2026
Really good!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews