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War of the Alphas #1
Omega
Ten years ago, Deirdre Tombs died. When she was reborn the next day, Deirdre had become a shapeshifter who can't shift shapes. Nobody knows what animal she's supposed to be. She's definitely not a werewolf. The Alpha, Rylie Gresham, can't force her to transform like other members of her pack.
Now Deirdre is considered an omega, the weakest shapeshifter in the pack — a vulnerable position when Everton Stark demands tribute from Rylie. He wants to be the dominant Alpha. The only Alpha. And he plans to make her pack submit whether they want to or not. Stark can make every shapeshifter obey him by force of will alone.
Every shapeshifter except Deirdre.
The shifter who can't shift is the only hope for Rylie to win the war against Stark. It will take everything Deirdre has to survive undercover in his den. But can an omega's will be stronger than that of a charismatic, deadly Alpha like Everton Stark?
Now Deirdre is considered an omega, the weakest shapeshifter in the pack — a vulnerable position when Everton Stark demands tribute from Rylie. He wants to be the dominant Alpha. The only Alpha. And he plans to make her pack submit whether they want to or not. Stark can make every shapeshifter obey him by force of will alone.
Every shapeshifter except Deirdre.
The shifter who can't shift is the only hope for Rylie to win the war against Stark. It will take everything Deirdre has to survive undercover in his den. But can an omega's will be stronger than that of a charismatic, deadly Alpha like Everton Stark?
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2015
834 people are currently reading
1898 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Reine
114 books2,007 followersHi everyone! My name is Sara, and I write urban fantasy and paranormal novels as SM Reine. I collect swords, cat hair, and typewriters (which I do use for writing!). It's a good day when those three things have nothing to do with each other.
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
March 9, 2015
4 Better Than Expected Stars
Deindre Tombs isn't your usual shifter, that is, she doesn't shift. Her only indication she has that she is a shifter are several shifter abilities, but when it comes to her animal? Nada. That has always made her an outcast, someone her own kind rejected and made her a pariah for almost everyone else.
When an unexpected resistence to compulsion makes Deindre important to the werewolf Alpha she will have to choose whether or not she is willing to put her life on the line to help the same people who have been rejecting her her whole life or let innocents die.
When I requested this I didn't expect to like this one much despite it being right up my alley(shaoeshifters, kick-ass female, war waiting to happen). But I did like it a lot. The end though...That freakin end!!!
While I did like SM Reine's universe I was a bit confused by the world-building in the beginning. I thought that many info were dumbed on the reader without much explanation or elaboration and that made the book a bit hard to get into at first. But, I hadn't relised that this book was a spin-off of another series so I'm willing to excuse this one.
I loved the mystery surrounding Deindre's shifting abilities and how it had scarred her life. I loved seeing how being an outcast had made her a badass girl but most of all I liked how she didn't have the solution to everything. Despite being able ti kick ass, she wasn't always the baddest, best of them all. She got beat down and she still came up swinging.
There were a few moments in the book that made me sad(most of them involving Gage and his not-exactly-relationship with Deindre) and that freakin' end. I was soooo sad. But a little relieved too.
Despite a couple of issues(the editing being one of them), I plan on reading the rest of the series and the original one. (And a few other books of the author I've had on my tbr list for a while.)
Deindre Tombs isn't your usual shifter, that is, she doesn't shift. Her only indication she has that she is a shifter are several shifter abilities, but when it comes to her animal? Nada. That has always made her an outcast, someone her own kind rejected and made her a pariah for almost everyone else.
When an unexpected resistence to compulsion makes Deindre important to the werewolf Alpha she will have to choose whether or not she is willing to put her life on the line to help the same people who have been rejecting her her whole life or let innocents die.
When I requested this I didn't expect to like this one much despite it being right up my alley(shaoeshifters, kick-ass female, war waiting to happen). But I did like it a lot. The end though...That freakin end!!!
While I did like SM Reine's universe I was a bit confused by the world-building in the beginning. I thought that many info were dumbed on the reader without much explanation or elaboration and that made the book a bit hard to get into at first. But, I hadn't relised that this book was a spin-off of another series so I'm willing to excuse this one.
I loved the mystery surrounding Deindre's shifting abilities and how it had scarred her life. I loved seeing how being an outcast had made her a badass girl but most of all I liked how she didn't have the solution to everything. Despite being able ti kick ass, she wasn't always the baddest, best of them all. She got beat down and she still came up swinging.
There were a few moments in the book that made me sad(most of them involving Gage and his not-exactly-relationship with Deindre) and that freakin' end. I was soooo sad. But a little relieved too.
Despite a couple of issues(the editing being one of them), I plan on reading the rest of the series and the original one. (And a few other books of the author I've had on my tbr list for a while.)
August 7, 2020
➽ Fact #1: I'm still waiting for Reine to write a series/standalone/whatever as gloriously awesome as Descent was. I'm in no hurry, but I'm not getting any younger, either. So please get to it, Sara.
➽ Fact #2: Deirdre has not reached kick-ass heroine status yet, but potential there is. It would help if she was 30 instead of 20, but she isn't, so it doesn't.
➽ Fact #3: Woe is Me Pity Party Gage (WisMPPG™) is annoying as hell. A character can be royally fished up without whining and feeling sorry for him/herself/themselves/itself/whatever 24/7. Just ask Pippa DaCosta.
➽ Fact #4: Rylie Gresham, you're just as freakingly self-righteous in this story as you were in Ascension. And I still don't like you. At all. I wish Elise Kavanagh had chopped you to little pieces and fed your remains to her demon buddies when she had the chance. Please die.
➽ Fact #5: blood and gore, yay! Blood and gore, yay! That's the Awesome SM Reine Way (ASMRW™)!
➽ Fact #6: the romantic bullshit and insta-attraction/lust/love/whatevercrap thing is irritating as hell. And makes me want to kill fluffy bunnies. It's a good thing Reine is evil and spoiler spoiler spoiler. It's what saved the book from a lower rating. Hallelujah to our Lord Shrimp and stuff.
➽ Fact #7: will I bother reading book 2 in this series? Maybe. Not sure. We shall see. Or not.
» And the moral of this Gripping Non-Review (GNR™) is: Omega isn't very bad. But Omega isn't very good, either. It has a juvenile feel that is definitely not up to Reine's usual standard. Want to read Pure, Undiluted Reine Awesomeness (UPRA™)? Read Descent. The first three instalment in the series are available as a free bundle on Amazon. You have no excuse and stuff. You are quite welcome. And stuff.
➽ Fact #2: Deirdre has not reached kick-ass heroine status yet, but potential there is. It would help if she was 30 instead of 20, but she isn't, so it doesn't.
➽ Fact #3: Woe is Me Pity Party Gage (WisMPPG™) is annoying as hell. A character can be royally fished up without whining and feeling sorry for him/herself/themselves/itself/whatever 24/7. Just ask Pippa DaCosta.
➽ Fact #4: Rylie Gresham, you're just as freakingly self-righteous in this story as you were in Ascension. And I still don't like you. At all. I wish Elise Kavanagh had chopped you to little pieces and fed your remains to her demon buddies when she had the chance. Please die.
➽ Fact #5: blood and gore, yay! Blood and gore, yay! That's the Awesome SM Reine Way (ASMRW™)!
➽ Fact #6: the romantic bullshit and insta-attraction/lust/love/whatever
➽ Fact #7: will I bother reading book 2 in this series? Maybe. Not sure. We shall see. Or not.
» And the moral of this Gripping Non-Review (GNR™) is: Omega isn't very bad. But Omega isn't very good, either. It has a juvenile feel that is definitely not up to Reine's usual standard. Want to read Pure, Undiluted Reine Awesomeness (UPRA™)? Read Descent. The first three instalment in the series are available as a free bundle on Amazon. You have no excuse and stuff. You are quite welcome. And stuff.
January 3, 2021
This series has so much potential
This book, this series, is the perfect example of how an author can make you love a character you would normally dislike.
The MC is definitely not someone I'd expect to like in any way, shape, or form, but SM Reine is awesome and, with every book, I fell more and more for the characters.
How? Great writing, that's how!
Even though I didn't really expect to like it, I went on and on and every page made me want more. Amazing work, Reine!
If you're looking for a different kind of hero, this is the book you need to try. If you want a change from those classical MCs from 90% of UF and F books, you should give this book a chance.
I can promise you, you will be surprised throughout the whole series. You will change your opinion of the characters so many times and so fast, you'll give yourself whiplash.
Definitely a series worth trying, if only for the change of pace
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This book, this series, is the perfect example of how an author can make you love a character you would normally dislike.
The MC is definitely not someone I'd expect to like in any way, shape, or form, but SM Reine is awesome and, with every book, I fell more and more for the characters.
How? Great writing, that's how!
Even though I didn't really expect to like it, I went on and on and every page made me want more. Amazing work, Reine!
If you're looking for a different kind of hero, this is the book you need to try. If you want a change from those classical MCs from 90% of UF and F books, you should give this book a chance.
I can promise you, you will be surprised throughout the whole series. You will change your opinion of the characters so many times and so fast, you'll give yourself whiplash.
Definitely a series worth trying, if only for the change of pace
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April 2, 2015
This is out today! (Can one of you guys read this book please so I have someone to talk to about it?! :D)
I really enjoyed this one! It grabbed my attention right from Chapter 1 and I flew through the pages all the way till the end.
So this is the first book in a new UF series called War of the Alphas, the war being between Rylie Gresham (the “good” Alpha) and Everton Stark (the “bad” Alpha). Our MC is Deirdre, who goes undercover at the behest of Rylie and joins Stark’s rebellion to gather information and report back to her.
Reine knows how to keep things interesting...
I’ll be honest here -- the main thing that kept me turning the pages like a madwoman was to get to the parts with Deirdre and Stark together. There was a sort of tension between these two that totally and completely held my attention and did not let go.
Characters
--Deirdre is a likable MC - she’s not exactly a total kickass heroine (which makes sense at this point, seeing as she’s a shapeshifter who isn’t able to shift into a powerful animal like all the others can), but she’s not a whiny crybaby either. I like her.
--Stark gave me mild Mad Rogan vibes (minus the charm). He’s definitely DEFINITELY not a good guy, but there’s more to it than just that. I won’t say that he’s not exactly a bad guy, cuz he totally IS a bad guy, but there's a tiny bit of ambiguity going on too. You'll see what I mean.
--Riley seems like an idiot to me. I guess maybe if I read her other series, I'd feel differently about her. But just from what I saw of her here...she seems dumb.
Some negatives.
The world building kinda sucked. I get the feeling that Reine is assuming that we've read her other series (the one with Riley I guess), so we already know what's what. I didn't read that other series, so I don't know what. Or maybe I'm wrong about that and there just is no background anywhere for the stuff in this book? I dunno. It was a tiny bit frustrating, but I was able to shrug it off for the most part and just roll with what scant information I was given. Hopefully more background will be given in the next book.
The other thing I wasn't that impressed with was some of the plot details. For instance, there didn't seem to be much thought given to Deirdre's undercover mission. It was just: send the girl there undercover. That's it. I wish there had been a little more complexity to some aspects of the plot. Some things came off as a bit half-assed.
But overall, I did really like this. I thought some things were kinda predictable, but that didn't take anything away from my reading enjoyment at all. I'm REALLY looking forward to the next book -- as soon as it comes out, you can bet I'll be all over that thing.
Lots and lots of possibilities here, I feel like anything can happen. Fun!
I really enjoyed this one! It grabbed my attention right from Chapter 1 and I flew through the pages all the way till the end.
So this is the first book in a new UF series called War of the Alphas, the war being between Rylie Gresham (the “good” Alpha) and Everton Stark (the “bad” Alpha). Our MC is Deirdre, who goes undercover at the behest of Rylie and joins Stark’s rebellion to gather information and report back to her.
Reine knows how to keep things interesting...
I’ll be honest here -- the main thing that kept me turning the pages like a madwoman was to get to the parts with Deirdre and Stark together. There was a sort of tension between these two that totally and completely held my attention and did not let go.
Characters
--Deirdre is a likable MC - she’s not exactly a total kickass heroine (which makes sense at this point, seeing as she’s a shapeshifter who isn’t able to shift into a powerful animal like all the others can), but she’s not a whiny crybaby either. I like her.
--Stark gave me mild Mad Rogan vibes (minus the charm). He’s definitely DEFINITELY not a good guy, but there’s more to it than just that. I won’t say that he’s not exactly a bad guy, cuz he totally IS a bad guy, but there's a tiny bit of ambiguity going on too. You'll see what I mean.
--Riley seems like an idiot to me. I guess maybe if I read her other series, I'd feel differently about her. But just from what I saw of her here...she seems dumb.
Some negatives.
The world building kinda sucked. I get the feeling that Reine is assuming that we've read her other series (the one with Riley I guess), so we already know what's what. I didn't read that other series, so I don't know what. Or maybe I'm wrong about that and there just is no background anywhere for the stuff in this book? I dunno. It was a tiny bit frustrating, but I was able to shrug it off for the most part and just roll with what scant information I was given. Hopefully more background will be given in the next book.
The other thing I wasn't that impressed with was some of the plot details. For instance, there didn't seem to be much thought given to Deirdre's undercover mission. It was just: send the girl there undercover. That's it. I wish there had been a little more complexity to some aspects of the plot. Some things came off as a bit half-assed.
But overall, I did really like this. I thought some things were kinda predictable, but that didn't take anything away from my reading enjoyment at all. I'm REALLY looking forward to the next book -- as soon as it comes out, you can bet I'll be all over that thing.
Lots and lots of possibilities here, I feel like anything can happen. Fun!
June 4, 2017
Very good read. This is my first time reading Reine, and she has mad storytelling skills. My only complaint about the wordbuilding is that even though this is the first book of the series, I kept reading things that I didn't understand, but felt I was supposed to. Either things will be explained more as the series progresses, or this series is not as autonomous from her other series as I had been led to believe.
Regardless, this is a series I anticipate keeping up with. I won't recap the story, the book summary does a good job of that. Suffice to say, I really enjoyed the PNR/UF world created by Reine. It's different from anything I've read.
NOTE: I've since been informed by Mara that the authors series (characters and plotlines) are all overlapping, about 4 series worth of books. Far too many books to go back and read; so I guess I'll just forge ahead from this point and hope it all starts to 'click'. The author is doing herself a disservice and losing some readers tying all these series so tightly together, IMO. I've since read many complaints in reviews about confusion and needing to read past series causing someone to give up reading the books. And there are so dang many of the books.
Regardless, this is a series I anticipate keeping up with. I won't recap the story, the book summary does a good job of that. Suffice to say, I really enjoyed the PNR/UF world created by Reine. It's different from anything I've read.
NOTE: I've since been informed by Mara that the authors series (characters and plotlines) are all overlapping, about 4 series worth of books. Far too many books to go back and read; so I guess I'll just forge ahead from this point and hope it all starts to 'click'. The author is doing herself a disservice and losing some readers tying all these series so tightly together, IMO. I've since read many complaints in reviews about confusion and needing to read past series causing someone to give up reading the books. And there are so dang many of the books.
May 19, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It had plenty of action and a heroine who made no apologies for being who she was. Nicely done.
March 19, 2015
This is the first in a new series by this author but her fans may well recognise certain aspects of the world that is created here. Ms Reine has an amazing gift of writing urban fantasy that is truly appealing . It's very easy to be swept away by her world building although if you haven't read some of her other books you might find initially that this book seems to start without a true beginning. I did feel that certain explanations needed to be fleshed out if honest but the story that followed was fast, interesting and totally unique.
Deirdre is one of the reborn humans who are now something Other. In Deirdres case she's a shifter but for some strange reason she is unable to achieve her animal form and is unsure exactly just what it is . She has long been vilified by other Shifters and tries to keep her head down whilst surviving in the new inhospitable world but her life takes a huge turn when it's discovered that she is immune to compulsion. Forced to make a stand Deirdre finds herself falling deeper into a situation beyond her control and before she can catch her breath finds herself branded a terrorist !
Now I will admit that this author has built this out of the ashes of a previous series that she has written . Although I've read some of her works I personally haven't read the Seasons of the Moon series which seems to be the precursor to War of the Alphas but I found the heroine to be engaging and it has a quickly developing plot that caught and held my attention. I found Deirdre to be quite a tough cookie with a surprising amount of mental strength. Yes she has faced many challenges but she is still fighting and is most definitely not down for the count. Considered a lowly Omega by many her true ability lies in what she is not rather than what she is . If not just a blind follower than just what is Deirdre capable of? There are some answers given here but there is still an awful lot left to uncover as this series continues. Not strictly a romance although there are moments when the reader might think perhaps that is on the cards but this author enjoys surprising her readers and this book is no exception.
i was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Deirdre is one of the reborn humans who are now something Other. In Deirdres case she's a shifter but for some strange reason she is unable to achieve her animal form and is unsure exactly just what it is . She has long been vilified by other Shifters and tries to keep her head down whilst surviving in the new inhospitable world but her life takes a huge turn when it's discovered that she is immune to compulsion. Forced to make a stand Deirdre finds herself falling deeper into a situation beyond her control and before she can catch her breath finds herself branded a terrorist !
Now I will admit that this author has built this out of the ashes of a previous series that she has written . Although I've read some of her works I personally haven't read the Seasons of the Moon series which seems to be the precursor to War of the Alphas but I found the heroine to be engaging and it has a quickly developing plot that caught and held my attention. I found Deirdre to be quite a tough cookie with a surprising amount of mental strength. Yes she has faced many challenges but she is still fighting and is most definitely not down for the count. Considered a lowly Omega by many her true ability lies in what she is not rather than what she is . If not just a blind follower than just what is Deirdre capable of? There are some answers given here but there is still an awful lot left to uncover as this series continues. Not strictly a romance although there are moments when the reader might think perhaps that is on the cards but this author enjoys surprising her readers and this book is no exception.
i was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
January 6, 2016
I've recently found some reviews I wrote a few months ago and I don't know why I never posted them. Hum, it's time to change that.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
It was a good start for this series and the plot was fine.
The main character, Deirdre, wasn’t annoying, which is sometimes something hard to find in books, and she knows how to protect herself. She’s strong and doesn’t trust anyone easily. And I have to mention that I liked what happens at the end because I wasn’t expecting it at all.
Sadly, I feel it’s not a memorable book. I know that when the next installment is released, I'll remember just a few details about this one.
***************************
This book has been released yesterday!!
And now I have it and it's waiting for me to read it!!
But I can't because I'm currently reading two books and I have a lot to study.
Honestly, real life sucks.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
It was a good start for this series and the plot was fine.
The main character, Deirdre, wasn’t annoying, which is sometimes something hard to find in books, and she knows how to protect herself. She’s strong and doesn’t trust anyone easily. And I have to mention that I liked what happens at the end because I wasn’t expecting it at all.
Sadly, I feel it’s not a memorable book. I know that when the next installment is released, I'll remember just a few details about this one.
***************************
This book has been released yesterday!!
And now I have it and it's waiting for me to read it!!
But I can't because I'm currently reading two books and I have a lot to study.
Honestly, real life sucks.
October 2, 2017
I had a hard time deciding between 3 and 4 stars on this. On the plus side, it is fast-moving and action packed with an appealing reluctant heroine at the center. In this version of the post-apocalypse, billions die, but most return. Many as supernatural creatures. A shifter who cannot shift, Deidre Tombs is shunted from foster home to foster home, learning to use weapons in violent confrontations where other supes can rely on supernatural abilities. An outside, she is caught between two supernatural factions warring for control of the supernatural world.
The content is extremely violent - supernatural healing abilities leading to confrontations that would kill a mundane.
I was fascinated by the world created in the first volume and eager to discover Deidre's true shifter nature and moved on to book 2 in a hurry.
The content is extremely violent - supernatural healing abilities leading to confrontations that would kill a mundane.
I was fascinated by the world created in the first volume and eager to discover Deidre's true shifter nature and moved on to book 2 in a hurry.
April 25, 2015
I received this book from Netgalley.
Okay, so here's the thing. How come I've never read Sara Reine before? Because seriously? I loved the book. As in stayed up stupidly late to finish it. It's the first in a new series, but it's an offshoot of another series. Totally didn't matter. I didn't feel like I was at a loss at all.
I really liked the concept of the world with Genesis and the fae and the way it worked out. I thought the political stuff was fascinating, and I'd like to see more of the larger political arena. Is Rylie totally in charge of the USA or are there more factions?
I like Deirdre's character. She wasn't stupid, she was strong as a character, but not necessarily physically as strong as she'd want to be. She never backed down, never gave up. She did what she had to do. She was constantly struggling between survival and morality and her actions were guided by that struggle.
I thought Stark was a great bad guy. Driven by his own demons and his own sense of right and wrong, he brutally and ruthlessly goes after his plan to change the world. He's clearly got secrets, and one of them may be just what sort of shifter Deirdre is. She changes, or thinks she does, and he may have witnessed it. So that's a question for the next book.
I didn't see the end coming. Maybe I should have, but I was shocked. Reine isn't afraid and she takes an incredible risk with that end. but it's perfect.
The book is grim and harsh. The characters are believable. Gutterman was awesomely cool and it makes me wonder why Deirdre's fear is water, and also why, when she wakes up in the creek, she's not more freaked out. Questions . . . Questions . . .
I've already downloaded Betas to read. I'm going to be reading a lot more of Reine's books.
Okay, so here's the thing. How come I've never read Sara Reine before? Because seriously? I loved the book. As in stayed up stupidly late to finish it. It's the first in a new series, but it's an offshoot of another series. Totally didn't matter. I didn't feel like I was at a loss at all.
I really liked the concept of the world with Genesis and the fae and the way it worked out. I thought the political stuff was fascinating, and I'd like to see more of the larger political arena. Is Rylie totally in charge of the USA or are there more factions?
I like Deirdre's character. She wasn't stupid, she was strong as a character, but not necessarily physically as strong as she'd want to be. She never backed down, never gave up. She did what she had to do. She was constantly struggling between survival and morality and her actions were guided by that struggle.
I thought Stark was a great bad guy. Driven by his own demons and his own sense of right and wrong, he brutally and ruthlessly goes after his plan to change the world. He's clearly got secrets, and one of them may be just what sort of shifter Deirdre is. She changes, or thinks she does, and he may have witnessed it. So that's a question for the next book.
I didn't see the end coming. Maybe I should have, but I was shocked. Reine isn't afraid and she takes an incredible risk with that end. but it's perfect.
The book is grim and harsh. The characters are believable. Gutterman was awesomely cool and it makes me wonder why Deirdre's fear is water, and also why, when she wakes up in the creek, she's not more freaked out. Questions . . . Questions . . .
I've already downloaded Betas to read. I'm going to be reading a lot more of Reine's books.
August 23, 2016
This is classic example of a pretty cover drawing me in to a less-than-stellar story.
The world-building in this leaves much to be desired. So basically, "Genesis" happened (with no real explanation of what Genesis is) and everyone died, but some people came back and they aren't fully human. Although there are full humans too. (See what I mean?) Our heroine is an Omega but she has no idea what her spirit animal is. She can resist being compelled by an Alpha but that's pretty much all she has going for her besides a smart mouth and a dumb attitude. There was little to no chemistry between her and the hottie on the cover, and even that felt forced. The storyline of her infiltrating a would-be Alpha's camp was pretty lean - it definitely needed quite a bit of work.
I'm sorry to say author, this just didn't work for me.
The world-building in this leaves much to be desired. So basically, "Genesis" happened (with no real explanation of what Genesis is) and everyone died, but some people came back and they aren't fully human. Although there are full humans too. (See what I mean?) Our heroine is an Omega but she has no idea what her spirit animal is. She can resist being compelled by an Alpha but that's pretty much all she has going for her besides a smart mouth and a dumb attitude. There was little to no chemistry between her and the hottie on the cover, and even that felt forced. The storyline of her infiltrating a would-be Alpha's camp was pretty lean - it definitely needed quite a bit of work.
I'm sorry to say author, this just didn't work for me.
April 12, 2015
I started reading this and was really looking forward to getting into it unfortunately i havent finished it. It hasnt been able to keep my interest and i didnt really enjoy the characters.
I will try and pick this up in a few months but for the moment ill not be picking this up.
I will try and pick this up in a few months but for the moment ill not be picking this up.
May 14, 2015
Ugh, I wrote a whole review for this, but goodreads found that exact moment to crash and I lost all of it *fumes*
I'm not in the mood anymore and I'm way too angry to write another, so review to come.
I'm not in the mood anymore and I'm way too angry to write another, so review to come.
April 3, 2015
Sara outdoes herself! We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. – Nelson Mandela
I stood up as best I could to their disgusting stupidity and brutality, but I did not, of course, manage to beat them at their own game. It was a fight to the bitter end, one in which I was not defending ideals or beliefs but simply my own self. – George Grosz
Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things. – Winston Churchill
Twenty years ago, everyone died. Everyone. Man, woman and child, none were spared. And yet, once the Genesis Void passed, people returned – though not all. And those who did rise from their deaths returned to a world where myth and legend live, and you could very well awaken to find that you are a fairytale character. Sidhe and vampire, demon and were, all walk an Earth where humans are no longer the dominant species.
But massive change leads to mass confusion, and housing, feeding and providing care for the newly mythical brings about a razor sharp divide between the ‘Haves’ and the ‘Have Nots’ – and as Winston Churchill pointed out, “Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.” And Deirdre Tombs is miserable since she returned. For though she is purportedly a were – she heals swiftly and moves quickly – she cannot change. And since she cannot change, she isn’t trusted to live in ‘Sanctuary’ – the safe, exclusive world created for and by ‘true’ shapeshifters. Shuffled from decrepit foster home to skid row group house, she is beaten and abused, hated and feared. Now, she lives in a condemned building with her friend, an Asanbosam Vampire, and works for a Nightmare. Literally. But when ‘moon-sickness’ begins to flow through the were population, Dierdre is recruited by the very people who turned her away, who left her to the cruelties of the socialized foster system – a very broken, very vicious foster system. Of course, the system wasn’t only cruel to Dierdre – and Everton Stark is determined to make Rylie Gresham, werewolf Alpha, pay for the pain and deprivation of the many when Rylie made sure that ‘her’ wolves lived in peace and plenty.
When Rylie offers Dierdre a chance to learn what she is, which she has longed for all of her life, in return for infiltrating Stark’s group, she accepts the challenge. With Gage Cicerone, one of Rylie’s ‘children’ at her side, she takes the assignment. But now is when things get fuzzy. For the lines between good and bad, truth and lies, begin to blur . . .
Set in the world of Preternatural Affairs, the OPA holds minimal place within the story, yet looms over the scene, sure to be felt in later books in the series. PA is still my favorite of all Sara’s work, and this new series, War of the Alphas, expands the idea in a wildly creative manner. One warning – when you open this book, be sure that you do so early in the day, and have nothing else to do. The ‘smart’ side of my brain kept saying, “Go to bed, nutcase!” The obsessive part? Well, she won – I finished it at four this morning!
I received this book from Sara in exchange for a realistic review. Goooo ME!!! Sara is one of my favorite authors (and a wonderful person, btw) and she has reached another level of WOW in this new series!
I stood up as best I could to their disgusting stupidity and brutality, but I did not, of course, manage to beat them at their own game. It was a fight to the bitter end, one in which I was not defending ideals or beliefs but simply my own self. – George Grosz
Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things. – Winston Churchill
Twenty years ago, everyone died. Everyone. Man, woman and child, none were spared. And yet, once the Genesis Void passed, people returned – though not all. And those who did rise from their deaths returned to a world where myth and legend live, and you could very well awaken to find that you are a fairytale character. Sidhe and vampire, demon and were, all walk an Earth where humans are no longer the dominant species.
But massive change leads to mass confusion, and housing, feeding and providing care for the newly mythical brings about a razor sharp divide between the ‘Haves’ and the ‘Have Nots’ – and as Winston Churchill pointed out, “Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.” And Deirdre Tombs is miserable since she returned. For though she is purportedly a were – she heals swiftly and moves quickly – she cannot change. And since she cannot change, she isn’t trusted to live in ‘Sanctuary’ – the safe, exclusive world created for and by ‘true’ shapeshifters. Shuffled from decrepit foster home to skid row group house, she is beaten and abused, hated and feared. Now, she lives in a condemned building with her friend, an Asanbosam Vampire, and works for a Nightmare. Literally. But when ‘moon-sickness’ begins to flow through the were population, Dierdre is recruited by the very people who turned her away, who left her to the cruelties of the socialized foster system – a very broken, very vicious foster system. Of course, the system wasn’t only cruel to Dierdre – and Everton Stark is determined to make Rylie Gresham, werewolf Alpha, pay for the pain and deprivation of the many when Rylie made sure that ‘her’ wolves lived in peace and plenty.
When Rylie offers Dierdre a chance to learn what she is, which she has longed for all of her life, in return for infiltrating Stark’s group, she accepts the challenge. With Gage Cicerone, one of Rylie’s ‘children’ at her side, she takes the assignment. But now is when things get fuzzy. For the lines between good and bad, truth and lies, begin to blur . . .
Set in the world of Preternatural Affairs, the OPA holds minimal place within the story, yet looms over the scene, sure to be felt in later books in the series. PA is still my favorite of all Sara’s work, and this new series, War of the Alphas, expands the idea in a wildly creative manner. One warning – when you open this book, be sure that you do so early in the day, and have nothing else to do. The ‘smart’ side of my brain kept saying, “Go to bed, nutcase!” The obsessive part? Well, she won – I finished it at four this morning!
I received this book from Sara in exchange for a realistic review. Goooo ME!!! Sara is one of my favorite authors (and a wonderful person, btw) and she has reached another level of WOW in this new series!
November 5, 2020
Reviewed for http://theereaderjunkie.wordpress.com
At the beginning, I had trouble entering this world : it's a #1 in a new series but I felt I was walking into a pre-existent universe. After hunting for some info, it's the case : this series is a spin-off from Seasons of the Moon, the Cain Chronicles and the Ascension series. However, after the earlier discomfort, I quickly jumped along and it didn't bother me any more. If I had known it was a spin-off, I wouldn't have read it and I would have regretted it !
That almost post-apocalyptic universe is dark : after Genesis, the whole population died. Most came back, but as shifters. There are the shifters who follow the rules and live a practically normal life among their pack, then there are the cast-off, the rebels, who live in trashy homes provided by the government and survive with ration coupons.
For Deirdre, it's even worse than for the rest of the cast-offs, she can't shift, she doesn't know what's her animal. She only knows she loves warmth and hates rain, is able to climb walls better than most. Her major capability, unique, is to resist Everton Stark's compulsion. He wants to lead all shifters and plans to murder the actual leader, Rylie Gresham. So Rylie asks Deirdre to work with Stark as a mole, along with her adoptive son Gage.
Gage accompanies her inside Stark's organization and they try to prevent terrorism, attacks, murder, while trying to resist compulsion. Everton Stark is a first rate manipulator and an intriguing character. Rylie Gresham may not be what she appears to be at first. Long time friends change, or is it Deirdre evolving ? Gage looks like a carefree man, but what is this guilt eating him inside ? All those deceiving appearances...
That universe is gritty, dirty and scary. There's a nightmare demon in there that's downright creepy and gave me the shivers ! He instills nightmares into reality and you can't differentiate what is real and what isn't. This world felt believable. Deirdre had to fight all her life since she was reborn, but under her tough as nails exterior, she is deeply human and cares about people. It's something I rarely see in urban fantasy : people die, demons are fought, but lives don't weigh much in the balance. To Deirdre, lives matter. She's intrigued by Stark, he's an asshole but makes her feel like she's more than what she's always been thought of. He's also possibly the one person on the planet who can tell her what her animal is. Deirdre is not your usual heroin : she's an Omega, which means she's despised, she's not as strong as she wishes she would be, she makes mistakes ; she's also bitter and disillusioned, is more preoccupied about surviving than planning ahead. I couldn't help feeling sorry for her and wondering if she was volunteering for something way beyond her.
My conclusion : after a surprising start discovering this universe and getting used to it, I quickly tagged along and got swept away. The characters are all well established but Deirdre stands out, with her bad attitude and inner cracks. The heroin portrayed is original, Everton Stark is charismatic and complex, the plot keeps you guessing and wondering not only what will happen, but also how Genesis came to be. This is a darker story than I usually read, but it grabbed me and when I reached the 88% and saw the battery was going down, I plugged my tablet and kept reading sitting on the floor because I needed to *know* ! My first book by this author but certainly not the last - and I'll make sure to watch out for the next instalment.
At the beginning, I had trouble entering this world : it's a #1 in a new series but I felt I was walking into a pre-existent universe. After hunting for some info, it's the case : this series is a spin-off from Seasons of the Moon, the Cain Chronicles and the Ascension series. However, after the earlier discomfort, I quickly jumped along and it didn't bother me any more. If I had known it was a spin-off, I wouldn't have read it and I would have regretted it !
That almost post-apocalyptic universe is dark : after Genesis, the whole population died. Most came back, but as shifters. There are the shifters who follow the rules and live a practically normal life among their pack, then there are the cast-off, the rebels, who live in trashy homes provided by the government and survive with ration coupons.
For Deirdre, it's even worse than for the rest of the cast-offs, she can't shift, she doesn't know what's her animal. She only knows she loves warmth and hates rain, is able to climb walls better than most. Her major capability, unique, is to resist Everton Stark's compulsion. He wants to lead all shifters and plans to murder the actual leader, Rylie Gresham. So Rylie asks Deirdre to work with Stark as a mole, along with her adoptive son Gage.
Gage accompanies her inside Stark's organization and they try to prevent terrorism, attacks, murder, while trying to resist compulsion. Everton Stark is a first rate manipulator and an intriguing character. Rylie Gresham may not be what she appears to be at first. Long time friends change, or is it Deirdre evolving ? Gage looks like a carefree man, but what is this guilt eating him inside ? All those deceiving appearances...
That universe is gritty, dirty and scary. There's a nightmare demon in there that's downright creepy and gave me the shivers ! He instills nightmares into reality and you can't differentiate what is real and what isn't. This world felt believable. Deirdre had to fight all her life since she was reborn, but under her tough as nails exterior, she is deeply human and cares about people. It's something I rarely see in urban fantasy : people die, demons are fought, but lives don't weigh much in the balance. To Deirdre, lives matter. She's intrigued by Stark, he's an asshole but makes her feel like she's more than what she's always been thought of. He's also possibly the one person on the planet who can tell her what her animal is. Deirdre is not your usual heroin : she's an Omega, which means she's despised, she's not as strong as she wishes she would be, she makes mistakes ; she's also bitter and disillusioned, is more preoccupied about surviving than planning ahead. I couldn't help feeling sorry for her and wondering if she was volunteering for something way beyond her.
My conclusion : after a surprising start discovering this universe and getting used to it, I quickly tagged along and got swept away. The characters are all well established but Deirdre stands out, with her bad attitude and inner cracks. The heroin portrayed is original, Everton Stark is charismatic and complex, the plot keeps you guessing and wondering not only what will happen, but also how Genesis came to be. This is a darker story than I usually read, but it grabbed me and when I reached the 88% and saw the battery was going down, I plugged my tablet and kept reading sitting on the floor because I needed to *know* ! My first book by this author but certainly not the last - and I'll make sure to watch out for the next instalment.
March 31, 2015
A version of a dystopian world that is new and different? Hard to imagine with so many to be had. This author’s imagining was such an original concept, but not so different that it took away from the characters. Because the characters were pretty great. From what I can tell, it’s a spin-off of The Ascension Series, which I haven’t read, and while I could tell that it probably had been a series, it didn’t take anything away from the read for me. In fact, I am intrigued enough that I may go back and read that series as well.
The year is 2025, and it’s been ten years since Genesis happened. Deirdre was a little girl when she died, and the rest of the world died right along with her. Some people made it back, but a lot didn’t. Deirdre was the only one of her family to make it back. Most that come back are changed-supernaturally. Deidre is a shifter, one that can’t shift, and has no idea what her animal is. Her roommate, Jolene, is a vampire-one that has never killed-and Deirdre works for a nightmare demon that is trying to kill her, rather then fire her, and pay unemployment benefits. Circumstances bring her to the attention of the leader of this new world, Rylie Gresham, a werewolf. There’s a faction that wants to overthrow Rylie, and Rylie thinks Deirdre is just the one to help stop the rebellion, because as an Omega, she can’t be compelled by the rebel leader.
Deidre has had a pretty horrible life in this new world. As a child, she was loved dearly, but all that goes away with Genesis. She has lived under a government assistance program that has kept her from ever getting ahead, or out of living in near squalor. She has been ridiculed and bullied because she can’t shift pretty much since the beginning of her new life. All that being said, she ended up being a total kick butt character. At the same time, she shows her vulnerability, especially when dealing with Gage. Gage works for Rylie also, and becomes Deidre’s undercover partner and love interest. He is pretty broken in his own way.The leader of the rebellion is the villain of this story. Stark was a really scary guy, and almost put me in mind of Hitler,for some reason. His henchman, Jacek was almost as bad. These are villains written so well that you want to get rid of them yourself!
There’s plenty of suspense, action, and scary moments to be had in this story. I loved the characters, the unique(to me at least)premise, and the excellent writing. It was a really fast read for me, because it was a total page turner. Keep in mind, this is not a feel good book, and there is quite a bit of violence in this story. I would not classify this as a paranormal romance. FYI-I can’t imagine reading the first chapter of this book and not getting completely sucked into the story. It’s that exciting.
I had read one other book by this author a few years back, but never went back to finish that series. With this book, I have completely done a complete 180 degrees about this author’s work, and can’t wait to see where this series is heading. Recommended!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher by way of Net Galley in exchange for a fair and honest review.(RabidReads.com)
The year is 2025, and it’s been ten years since Genesis happened. Deirdre was a little girl when she died, and the rest of the world died right along with her. Some people made it back, but a lot didn’t. Deirdre was the only one of her family to make it back. Most that come back are changed-supernaturally. Deidre is a shifter, one that can’t shift, and has no idea what her animal is. Her roommate, Jolene, is a vampire-one that has never killed-and Deirdre works for a nightmare demon that is trying to kill her, rather then fire her, and pay unemployment benefits. Circumstances bring her to the attention of the leader of this new world, Rylie Gresham, a werewolf. There’s a faction that wants to overthrow Rylie, and Rylie thinks Deirdre is just the one to help stop the rebellion, because as an Omega, she can’t be compelled by the rebel leader.
Deidre has had a pretty horrible life in this new world. As a child, she was loved dearly, but all that goes away with Genesis. She has lived under a government assistance program that has kept her from ever getting ahead, or out of living in near squalor. She has been ridiculed and bullied because she can’t shift pretty much since the beginning of her new life. All that being said, she ended up being a total kick butt character. At the same time, she shows her vulnerability, especially when dealing with Gage. Gage works for Rylie also, and becomes Deidre’s undercover partner and love interest. He is pretty broken in his own way.The leader of the rebellion is the villain of this story. Stark was a really scary guy, and almost put me in mind of Hitler,for some reason. His henchman, Jacek was almost as bad. These are villains written so well that you want to get rid of them yourself!
There’s plenty of suspense, action, and scary moments to be had in this story. I loved the characters, the unique(to me at least)premise, and the excellent writing. It was a really fast read for me, because it was a total page turner. Keep in mind, this is not a feel good book, and there is quite a bit of violence in this story. I would not classify this as a paranormal romance. FYI-I can’t imagine reading the first chapter of this book and not getting completely sucked into the story. It’s that exciting.
I had read one other book by this author a few years back, but never went back to finish that series. With this book, I have completely done a complete 180 degrees about this author’s work, and can’t wait to see where this series is heading. Recommended!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher by way of Net Galley in exchange for a fair and honest review.(RabidReads.com)
March 12, 2015
A new Reine series that overlaps the Seasons of the Moon, Cain Chronicles, and the Ascension series. Although you could get through this novel without reading these series, I don't recommend it. There is so much backstory and world-building, that you should read at least one of the above-mentioned series to truly appreciate this book. I like that this book is set in the future and I enjoyed the mystery of the MC's shifting dilemma. Stark and Gage are intriguing as well. The cliffhanger ending will definitely encourage me to read the next one! For S.M. Reine fans.
March 8, 2016
2.5 Stars Audible Edition. Little world building, a ridiculous plan to infiltrate a rogue faction and pass on information to the current Alpha (when I say ridiculous, I mean no real plan at all) and a bad ending. Did I say bad ending? I meant to say it was a shitty ending. The MC is forced to kill her love interest and we didn't find out what kind of shifter she is. What her animal is was the whole "mystery" of the story. WTF?! I am a tad bit pissy because I still want to know what kind of shifter she is and I refuse to read the next book. Shitballs!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2015
I'm not sure how I feel about this one. The novel is well written and holds all the things that are expected from a Reine novel. It was the level of angst and the level of reaching a ceiling of credibility versus incredibility in both emotional responses and deeds. It pushes the bell curve for me into thinking 'mmm, is this that bit too much?'. Still not sure.
December 27, 2015
This was a fun urban fantasy. I liked the concept and the development of characters. It was a great shifter book and start to the series. Four glittery stars!
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July 29, 2015
3.5 stars.
This was a little strange to read because I am well aware that it's a continuation/ spin-off of at least one previous series. As a result I always had the vague feeling that I should already know stuff that I didn't, and though it never got to a point where I couldn't follow the plot I think that I'd definitely have been more emotionally connected if I'd read those preceding books.
Despite my slight disconnect from the rest of the story I did like the main character of Deirdre. I can really understand her angry, bitter resentment towards Rylie Gresham and Sanctuary, because in a way they were responsible for every single crappy thing that has happened to her since Genesis, albeit in a mostly indirect fashion. It made Deirdre feel very, very human, with emotions that anyone who has ever been an outcast or the underdog can relate to. I don't really believe that she would trust Rylie/ Sanctuary to give her what she wanted if/ when she succeeded in her mission though. Deirdre is a smart person who has had first hand experience at how brutal and unsympathetic the world at large can be and the way she lets herself be prodded in to doing what Sanctuary can't (or wont) do doesn't seem to fit well with the rest of her character.
Gage on the other hand just right royally pissed me off. He was the exact opposite of Deirdre, coming from an almost limitless amount of privilege, with a huge loving, supportive network around him, yet he seemed not just completely incapable of letting go of his baggage it was almost as if he delighted in dragging it around after him and making it everybody elses problem too. Though he gave off an almost constant "poor pity me" vibe of a victim, we later learn that actually he was in fact just a massive, massive douchebag .
I found the plot quite interesting in a slow-build kind of way. Possibly because I can't confidently predict where things are going to go or exactly what Everton Stark (the villain) is hoping to achieve if he actually becomes Alpha. Though I assume that by the end of the series Sanctuary will prevail (at a hefty cost), I am rather hoping that Deirdre tells both them and Everton Stark to get lost at some point because she thinks both sides are arseholes. I'm also in two minds about whether I want us to ever learn what Deirdre's animal side is, because though I'm intensely curious the entire point of her character seems to be in showing that she's so much more than what she is or what she can do and trying to put her, and people like her, in a neat little labelled box is actively harmful.
Overall I'd say this is a good beginning to a new series and I'm eager to read the next book.
This was a little strange to read because I am well aware that it's a continuation/ spin-off of at least one previous series. As a result I always had the vague feeling that I should already know stuff that I didn't, and though it never got to a point where I couldn't follow the plot I think that I'd definitely have been more emotionally connected if I'd read those preceding books.
Despite my slight disconnect from the rest of the story I did like the main character of Deirdre. I can really understand her angry, bitter resentment towards Rylie Gresham and Sanctuary, because in a way they were responsible for every single crappy thing that has happened to her since Genesis, albeit in a mostly indirect fashion. It made Deirdre feel very, very human, with emotions that anyone who has ever been an outcast or the underdog can relate to. I don't really believe that she would trust Rylie/ Sanctuary to give her what she wanted if/ when she succeeded in her mission though. Deirdre is a smart person who has had first hand experience at how brutal and unsympathetic the world at large can be and the way she lets herself be prodded in to doing what Sanctuary can't (or wont) do doesn't seem to fit well with the rest of her character.
Gage on the other hand just right royally pissed me off. He was the exact opposite of Deirdre, coming from an almost limitless amount of privilege, with a huge loving, supportive network around him, yet he seemed not just completely incapable of letting go of his baggage it was almost as if he delighted in dragging it around after him and making it everybody elses problem too. Though he gave off an almost constant "poor pity me" vibe of a victim, we later learn that actually he was in fact just a massive, massive douchebag .
I found the plot quite interesting in a slow-build kind of way. Possibly because I can't confidently predict where things are going to go or exactly what Everton Stark (the villain) is hoping to achieve if he actually becomes Alpha. Though I assume that by the end of the series Sanctuary will prevail (at a hefty cost), I am rather hoping that Deirdre tells both them and Everton Stark to get lost at some point because she thinks both sides are arseholes. I'm also in two minds about whether I want us to ever learn what Deirdre's animal side is, because though I'm intensely curious the entire point of her character seems to be in showing that she's so much more than what she is or what she can do and trying to put her, and people like her, in a neat little labelled box is actively harmful.
Overall I'd say this is a good beginning to a new series and I'm eager to read the next book.
January 2, 2016
I skimmed the last half, just to see how it ended. I found that the world building was lacking, important events and the situation at large were left unexplained. Most of all, I was annoyed with how hateful the main character was. Hate hate hate. Oh and rain. Hate that too (as was mentioned oh so many times). It was so obviously out of context, I'm guessing it's meant as an allusion to her shift. Everything and everyone was somehow worth hating. Sure, she had a tough childhood/young adulthood and that must have left a mark. One would assume it'd toughen and smart her up. Nope. She does not think situations trough. Stuff happens and she's quick to talk down to anyone, but then walks the line anyway.
As for the whole rebellion situation, I just didn't care. I get that the direction of the story is to start being sympathetic to the underdog, but it just fell flat for me. Why? Because the background was not hashed out enough. It was just someone's word against others, mention of food shortages, along with some random violence.
2 stars because I expected a strong main character who is used to looking out for herself, able to learn from her mistakes in a world where mistakes get you killed really fast by something furry and/or dangerous.
As for the whole rebellion situation, I just didn't care. I get that the direction of the story is to start being sympathetic to the underdog, but it just fell flat for me. Why? Because the background was not hashed out enough. It was just someone's word against others, mention of food shortages, along with some random violence.
2 stars because I expected a strong main character who is used to looking out for herself, able to learn from her mistakes in a world where mistakes get you killed really fast by something furry and/or dangerous.
March 13, 2015
ARC from Netgalley
When Deidre was a kid, darkness-demons covered the planet and everyone died. And they revived but with the ability to shift into animals. Deidre however has come back but she can't shift into any animal. Rylie is an alpha and lives in the sanctuary with her pack but the problem is, only a few are allowed into the safety of the sanctuary. As a kid, Deidre, wasn't awarded such privileges. Due to her inability to change into an animal, she has been shuffled from home to home until she earned enough money to get her own apartment with her roommate. Then there's Everton Stark. His hatred for Rylie burns just as bright as Deidre's..the difference? He does something about it. He starts to build a rebel group and plans to take down Rylie. Everything is set into motion when she is attacked by her demon boss and Rylie brings her to the sanctuary and asks her to go undercover and join Everton Stark-all the while reporting to her. The reason? She cannot be compelled by Stark like the others because she can't shift.
Deidre was one kick ass heroine! Her hatred for Rylie was justified and i couldn't help but despise her a little because she was using Deidre. For her, Deidre was just a means to protect herself and sometimes i was irked by her 'i'm a good and sweet alpha' persona,
There was loads of action as she got more involved into the rebellion and i could actually feel her indecision. She was torn between fighting with Stark-they both had the same reasons to fight-and keeping her promise to Rylie. Stark is a butt! I'm sorry but i really do not get him. But he's totally badass and it's supposed to fit his character so yeah-at times he seemed like an emotionless evil bastard and at times he would get so passionate about what he was fighting for. Point is, i felt no connection between him and Deidre but i think that will seriously change in the next book!
You get swept into the opposing sides really quickly and even though i don't like how Stark is handling the situation, i agree with his motives behind his actions-not his actions though. He believes that everyone should be given equal rights and safety and not prioritized like Rylie's pack. To me, she basically started a discrimination between the shifters even if that wasn't her intention,.
I did love the love aspect in this book between Deidre and Gage! I could not believe the ending! Super interesting idea and great world building!
When Deidre was a kid, darkness-demons covered the planet and everyone died. And they revived but with the ability to shift into animals. Deidre however has come back but she can't shift into any animal. Rylie is an alpha and lives in the sanctuary with her pack but the problem is, only a few are allowed into the safety of the sanctuary. As a kid, Deidre, wasn't awarded such privileges. Due to her inability to change into an animal, she has been shuffled from home to home until she earned enough money to get her own apartment with her roommate. Then there's Everton Stark. His hatred for Rylie burns just as bright as Deidre's..the difference? He does something about it. He starts to build a rebel group and plans to take down Rylie. Everything is set into motion when she is attacked by her demon boss and Rylie brings her to the sanctuary and asks her to go undercover and join Everton Stark-all the while reporting to her. The reason? She cannot be compelled by Stark like the others because she can't shift.
Deidre was one kick ass heroine! Her hatred for Rylie was justified and i couldn't help but despise her a little because she was using Deidre. For her, Deidre was just a means to protect herself and sometimes i was irked by her 'i'm a good and sweet alpha' persona,
There was loads of action as she got more involved into the rebellion and i could actually feel her indecision. She was torn between fighting with Stark-they both had the same reasons to fight-and keeping her promise to Rylie. Stark is a butt! I'm sorry but i really do not get him. But he's totally badass and it's supposed to fit his character so yeah-at times he seemed like an emotionless evil bastard and at times he would get so passionate about what he was fighting for. Point is, i felt no connection between him and Deidre but i think that will seriously change in the next book!
You get swept into the opposing sides really quickly and even though i don't like how Stark is handling the situation, i agree with his motives behind his actions-not his actions though. He believes that everyone should be given equal rights and safety and not prioritized like Rylie's pack. To me, she basically started a discrimination between the shifters even if that wasn't her intention,.
I did love the love aspect in this book between Deidre and Gage! I could not believe the ending! Super interesting idea and great world building!
April 17, 2015
A little ditty to sum up my thoughts of this book…
Urban Fantasy is my addiction, it’s my drug of choice,
When I see a new series, I jump around, dance and rejoice.
When Omega came across my NetGalley feed,
In an instant I knew, it was one I must read.
Words like “shape shifter” and “War” baited the hook,
So I put all my laundry aside and started the book.
Deirdre is different, an Omega is what most people see,
Because she has no idea, as to what her shifter side might be.
Always alone, with a heart full of resent,
She trudges through life, no real goals or intent.
Then comes the day, she meets Everton Stark,
The man who’s bite, is much worse than his bark.
He wants to be alpha and can compel with his voice,
Making shifters do things, without given much choice.
But Riley Gresham is ruling Alpha and heavily skilled,
It will take more than thought needed, for her to be killed.
With a side cast of characters like Niamh, Jacek and Gage,
This is one of those books, that will have you turning the page.
This was a solid 4 star read, until I got to the end,
When that “What the Fuck” moment, decided to happen.
Why, oh why, did you have to end it that way?
I was so distressed, that I took a whole star away.
I’ll not giveaway any spoilers or say things I should not,
But other than the last few pages of the book, I liked it a lot.
I’ll be reading part two, because that end left me needing,
So until next time book lovers, I bid you all Happy Reading.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad start to a new series. It kept me entertained and I was actually curious as to how the story would play out. I never really knew what the author had planned at any given moment and I enjoyed that. Readers of the Urban Fantasy genre will want to read this one and even though it doesn’t have a lot of romance, there is a little of it throughout that should keep the romance readers happy.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Red Iris Books for the ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Urban Fantasy is my addiction, it’s my drug of choice,
When I see a new series, I jump around, dance and rejoice.
When Omega came across my NetGalley feed,
In an instant I knew, it was one I must read.
Words like “shape shifter” and “War” baited the hook,
So I put all my laundry aside and started the book.
Deirdre is different, an Omega is what most people see,
Because she has no idea, as to what her shifter side might be.
Always alone, with a heart full of resent,
She trudges through life, no real goals or intent.
Then comes the day, she meets Everton Stark,
The man who’s bite, is much worse than his bark.
He wants to be alpha and can compel with his voice,
Making shifters do things, without given much choice.
But Riley Gresham is ruling Alpha and heavily skilled,
It will take more than thought needed, for her to be killed.
With a side cast of characters like Niamh, Jacek and Gage,
This is one of those books, that will have you turning the page.
This was a solid 4 star read, until I got to the end,
When that “What the Fuck” moment, decided to happen.
Why, oh why, did you have to end it that way?
I was so distressed, that I took a whole star away.
I’ll not giveaway any spoilers or say things I should not,
But other than the last few pages of the book, I liked it a lot.
I’ll be reading part two, because that end left me needing,
So until next time book lovers, I bid you all Happy Reading.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad start to a new series. It kept me entertained and I was actually curious as to how the story would play out. I never really knew what the author had planned at any given moment and I enjoyed that. Readers of the Urban Fantasy genre will want to read this one and even though it doesn’t have a lot of romance, there is a little of it throughout that should keep the romance readers happy.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Red Iris Books for the ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2015
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have come to expect an intriquing premise and solid writing from S.M. Reine. Omega was no exception.
Deirdre Tombs has struggled since her rebirth as a shifter who can't shift. She is called an Omega which is the lowest position in the pack. Deirdre is considered a danger since her animal is unknown. She has been tossed around for ten years since her rebirth. The Alpha of the werewolf pack, Rylie Gresham, needs Deirdre's help to infiltrate a rival Alpha, Everton Stark's pack who is bent on dominance and destruction. Everton uses compulsion to make shifters carry out his orders. Deirdre is the only one immune to his power. Will Deirdre be able to help Rylie? Can an Omega rise in the ranks, or will Deirdre always be at the bottom of the pack?
Deirdre is determined to overcome her Omega status. She works hard and is unwilling to be the punching bag for anyone with more power. Deirdre's perseverance despite adversity made her a stronger character. Everton is powerful with the ability to control other shifters and the charisma to attract people to his cause. Despite his sadistic tendencies, I thought Everton was an interesting character and look forward to learning more about him. If you are looking for a well written, action packed, paranormal urban fantasy, then give Omega a try.
I have come to expect an intriquing premise and solid writing from S.M. Reine. Omega was no exception.
Deirdre Tombs has struggled since her rebirth as a shifter who can't shift. She is called an Omega which is the lowest position in the pack. Deirdre is considered a danger since her animal is unknown. She has been tossed around for ten years since her rebirth. The Alpha of the werewolf pack, Rylie Gresham, needs Deirdre's help to infiltrate a rival Alpha, Everton Stark's pack who is bent on dominance and destruction. Everton uses compulsion to make shifters carry out his orders. Deirdre is the only one immune to his power. Will Deirdre be able to help Rylie? Can an Omega rise in the ranks, or will Deirdre always be at the bottom of the pack?
Deirdre is determined to overcome her Omega status. She works hard and is unwilling to be the punching bag for anyone with more power. Deirdre's perseverance despite adversity made her a stronger character. Everton is powerful with the ability to control other shifters and the charisma to attract people to his cause. Despite his sadistic tendencies, I thought Everton was an interesting character and look forward to learning more about him. If you are looking for a well written, action packed, paranormal urban fantasy, then give Omega a try.
May 13, 2015
I say this every S.M. Reine book I read. EVERY ONE. And I'm going to say it this time. There comes a point in every one of her books where I have to quietly put the book down and walk away because WTF, MAN! WHY YOU KILLING ME LIKE THIS?!?!
*gives everyone the crazy eyes*
Soooo... Deirdre has a few issues. Not being able to shift really seems like the least of her worries at the moment. She has a nightmare on her tail, a power hungry alpha with the ability to compel giving her a second look, and friends who might not be friends but maybe they are and it's all a little confusing when you look at it from the outside.
It's not really confusing. It's complicated and tangled and Deirdre is torn between hating Rylie for her part in her division from the other shifters and wanting to help out because Stark is kinda batshit crazy at times.
Nobody likes a batshit crazy alpha, man. Actually, some people do. Which is a big part of the problem. With so many disenfranchised rallying to Stark's cause and Stark's willingness to do WHATEVER is necessary to reach his endgame, Deirdre is in a bad place.
Given that this is a S.M. Reine series, I can pretty much guarantee that bad place will only get worse before too long.
*whimpers*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
*gives everyone the crazy eyes*
Soooo... Deirdre has a few issues. Not being able to shift really seems like the least of her worries at the moment. She has a nightmare on her tail, a power hungry alpha with the ability to compel giving her a second look, and friends who might not be friends but maybe they are and it's all a little confusing when you look at it from the outside.
It's not really confusing. It's complicated and tangled and Deirdre is torn between hating Rylie for her part in her division from the other shifters and wanting to help out because Stark is kinda batshit crazy at times.
Nobody likes a batshit crazy alpha, man. Actually, some people do. Which is a big part of the problem. With so many disenfranchised rallying to Stark's cause and Stark's willingness to do WHATEVER is necessary to reach his endgame, Deirdre is in a bad place.
Given that this is a S.M. Reine series, I can pretty much guarantee that bad place will only get worse before too long.
*whimpers*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 8, 2015
The beginning of OMEGA wasn't easy to get through. I was pretty lost until things started to be explained and the world started becoming a little more clear. If I had known that some of the characters were shared with a previous series of S.M. Reine's I probably would have read that series to catch up on the world building that I thought was missing in OMEGA.
I loved the mystery that was Deirdre. She nor anyone else knows what type of shifter she is and I spent the whole book waiting for her to shift or SOMETHING. OMEGA is labeled as an urban fantasy so there isn't a lot of romance but there is a bit of a love triangle between a good guy protector and the bad guy that seems to only want to use Deirdre. I wasn't exactly rooting for either of them, but I of course liked Gage better as a person.
I really disliked the ending of OMEGA. In fact just thinking about it now has me flabbergasted and wondering why I would even give book two a chance. I don't get it and I was left with a feeling of 'WTF?'. I'm hoping I misread the situation somehow and it will end up being very different from what was said happened. Wishful thinking maybe, but I enjoyed the rest of the book enough that I want to give book two a chance.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the mystery that was Deirdre. She nor anyone else knows what type of shifter she is and I spent the whole book waiting for her to shift or SOMETHING. OMEGA is labeled as an urban fantasy so there isn't a lot of romance but there is a bit of a love triangle between a good guy protector and the bad guy that seems to only want to use Deirdre. I wasn't exactly rooting for either of them, but I of course liked Gage better as a person.
I really disliked the ending of OMEGA. In fact just thinking about it now has me flabbergasted and wondering why I would even give book two a chance. I don't get it and I was left with a feeling of 'WTF?'. I'm hoping I misread the situation somehow and it will end up being very different from what was said happened. Wishful thinking maybe, but I enjoyed the rest of the book enough that I want to give book two a chance.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2018
Free Kindle Read.
2.5 stars
This world was interesting, but I never really got behind Deidre or Gage as characters. I had a hard time with Deidre's motivation and decision to help Rylie (the Alpha)...it didn't seem to be very deep, but her actions once she was undercover were more along the lines of a true believer. Stark as a villain was intimidating and almost over-the-top, and Deidre's constant questioning of him seemed ridiculous given her Omega status.
I don't think I'll continue with the series, I'll probably just skim the reviews for series spoilers.
2.5 stars
This world was interesting, but I never really got behind Deidre or Gage as characters. I had a hard time with Deidre's motivation and decision to help Rylie (the Alpha)...it didn't seem to be very deep, but her actions once she was undercover were more along the lines of a true believer. Stark as a villain was intimidating and almost over-the-top, and Deidre's constant questioning of him seemed ridiculous given her Omega status.
I don't think I'll continue with the series, I'll probably just skim the reviews for series spoilers.
March 7, 2015
h hell, that was heartbreakingly brilliant.
That ending! I need book 2 now.
Loved the characters, world building and storyline.
Edge of the seat entertainment, just when I think I have it sussed, boom a curve ball hits me straight in the face and Knicks me side wards.
Brilliant stuff. Unputdownable.
That ending! I need book 2 now.
Loved the characters, world building and storyline.
Edge of the seat entertainment, just when I think I have it sussed, boom a curve ball hits me straight in the face and Knicks me side wards.
Brilliant stuff. Unputdownable.
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