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The Omegaverse Case Files #3
Lock Step
Times are changing in West Newton, and the game is finally up for Firearms Officers Taylor Campbell and John-Paul Ateba. After pissing off HR one too many times, they find themselves re-assigned to the sleepy retirement town of Dingly Heath, where the only lineup is outside the supermarket when incontinence pads are on special offer.
Except, there’s something not quite right about the locals, or their soon to be colleagues, or the place that was once crowned ‘Britain’s Most Motivated Town’. Soon, Johnny and Taylor discover that something much darker is lurking beneath the pristine lawns and show-stopping hanging baskets, and that they may have accidentally planted themselves in the heart of the growing alpha/omega unrest.
Best friends since childhood, the new assignment will push their friendship beyond its limits, especially when one of them has been secretly in love with the other for over a decade.
This is a childhood best friends-to-lovers, M/M, alpha/alpha omegaverse novel.
CW: descriptions of past child abuse (neglect, non-sexual), violence, explicit sexual scenes, explicit language, dark Brit-cop humour, an implied eating disorder (binge eating), unhealthy codependency between MCs, taking the piss out of one of the MCs religion (Christianity). Note: One of the MCs is heavily ADHD-coded and experiences all the difficulties that come with that neurodevelopmental disorder. Mpreg is a part of this world but does not feature heavily in this book.
Mature audiences only (18+), please check the content warnings.
Except, there’s something not quite right about the locals, or their soon to be colleagues, or the place that was once crowned ‘Britain’s Most Motivated Town’. Soon, Johnny and Taylor discover that something much darker is lurking beneath the pristine lawns and show-stopping hanging baskets, and that they may have accidentally planted themselves in the heart of the growing alpha/omega unrest.
Best friends since childhood, the new assignment will push their friendship beyond its limits, especially when one of them has been secretly in love with the other for over a decade.
This is a childhood best friends-to-lovers, M/M, alpha/alpha omegaverse novel.
CW: descriptions of past child abuse (neglect, non-sexual), violence, explicit sexual scenes, explicit language, dark Brit-cop humour, an implied eating disorder (binge eating), unhealthy codependency between MCs, taking the piss out of one of the MCs religion (Christianity). Note: One of the MCs is heavily ADHD-coded and experiences all the difficulties that come with that neurodevelopmental disorder. Mpreg is a part of this world but does not feature heavily in this book.
Mature audiences only (18+), please check the content warnings.
444 pages, Unknown Binding
Published April 16, 2026
118 people are currently reading
438 people want to read
About the author
C.T. Whistle
3 books211 followersC.T. Whistle is a UK indie author, who is currently running on hopes, dreams and very little sleep. When she isn't typing up a storm and ruining her characters lives, she aspires to take a nap but fails miserably at every turn.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 20, 2026
The Omegaverse Case Files series by @c.t.whistle just keeps getting BETTER AND BETTER. Y’all, Lock Step was a DELIGHT. Johnny and Taylor’s story had idiots to lovers detectives (well, they get sort of a demotion in this one 😂 but it all works out), all the YEARNING, but also….. it’s alpha/alpha 😮💨, there’s TONS of scenting, biting, alpha posturing, pacing, “touch him and ☠️” UNGHHHHHH it’s so good.
Something I love in CT Whistles books is how “wolfy” her shifters are - they spend a good bit of time hanging out shifted, and I LOVE all the scenes where Johnny and Taylor wrestle and run together as wolves, together AND with Johnny’s WONDERFUL family. The found family/pack vibes are IMMACULATE in the series and this book.
Another fun thing that’s been in every single one of CT Whistle’s book is a 🥵🥵 car sëx scene, and omg, they are all amazing but this one takes the cake I think. None of these guys can ever wait to get home 🫠😂.
If you like omegaverse, shifter romance, detective novels, or just FREAKING AMAZING mm romance books, you need to start this series IMMEDIATELY. I’ve DEVOURED every one!
Something I love in CT Whistles books is how “wolfy” her shifters are - they spend a good bit of time hanging out shifted, and I LOVE all the scenes where Johnny and Taylor wrestle and run together as wolves, together AND with Johnny’s WONDERFUL family. The found family/pack vibes are IMMACULATE in the series and this book.
Another fun thing that’s been in every single one of CT Whistle’s book is a 🥵🥵 car sëx scene, and omg, they are all amazing but this one takes the cake I think. None of these guys can ever wait to get home 🫠😂.
If you like omegaverse, shifter romance, detective novels, or just FREAKING AMAZING mm romance books, you need to start this series IMMEDIATELY. I’ve DEVOURED every one!
April 23, 2026
It took some effort to finish this book—and honestly, by the 60% mark, I started skimming a bit.
I really liked the first book, the second one was good but a bit more meh, and this third one was just... meh. I was bored. And sadly, I wasn’t really into Taylor and Johnny as a couple, not as much as I would have liked to be (I love friends-to-lovers trope). It took a while before I saw any chemistry between them.
The plot of the book didn't interest me at all and some things I didn’t enjoy, but there was a lot of good here as well. Taylor and Johnny’s relationship developed nicely (after the boring start), and I wanted to read all their scenes. There were definitely some sweet, funny and steamy moments between them, and I really liked the ending. I also loved how Taylor was able to heal his inner child a bit by helping William. I also appreciate all the different, unique characters in this book series.
What I didn't enjoy:
If I pick up a childhood friends-to-lovers Omegaverse book, I don't want to read about casual threesomes, bunch of retirees (some of whom act horny), wrinkled tits, shit (literal shit), bad smells, and perverts who touch themselves in public places 😀 I mean, this book clearly attempted to adopt a certain kind of humorous approach, but I guess the humor in this one wasn't really my cup of tea. I don't think I would have paid that much attention to it if the overall experience had been better, but because I was a bit done with the book already, those things certainly didn't help matters 😂 And in addition to this, if the couple's banter and inner monologue goes like this:
“Sure. No worries. I’ll just go back to sniffing your dirty underwear.”
”You better be fucking joking.”
“Someone’s gotta tell you to start upping your fibre intake.”
”You filthy bastard.”
’Johnny was panting. Quietly. Shamelessly.
Understanding now why his parents had their room on the ground floor, away from everyone else.
Ew, fuck.’
Eeehh…
In conclusion; I'm not saying the book is bad (therefore 3⭐️) but unfortunately, this one just wasn’t my favorite.
I really liked the first book, the second one was good but a bit more meh, and this third one was just... meh. I was bored. And sadly, I wasn’t really into Taylor and Johnny as a couple, not as much as I would have liked to be (I love friends-to-lovers trope). It took a while before I saw any chemistry between them.
The plot of the book didn't interest me at all and some things I didn’t enjoy, but there was a lot of good here as well. Taylor and Johnny’s relationship developed nicely (after the boring start), and I wanted to read all their scenes. There were definitely some sweet, funny and steamy moments between them, and I really liked the ending. I also loved how Taylor was able to heal his inner child a bit by helping William. I also appreciate all the different, unique characters in this book series.
What I didn't enjoy:
If I pick up a childhood friends-to-lovers Omegaverse book, I don't want to read about casual threesomes, bunch of retirees (some of whom act horny), wrinkled tits, shit (literal shit), bad smells, and perverts who touch themselves in public places 😀 I mean, this book clearly attempted to adopt a certain kind of humorous approach, but I guess the humor in this one wasn't really my cup of tea. I don't think I would have paid that much attention to it if the overall experience had been better, but because I was a bit done with the book already, those things certainly didn't help matters 😂 And in addition to this, if the couple's banter and inner monologue goes like this:
“Sure. No worries. I’ll just go back to sniffing your dirty underwear.”
”You better be fucking joking.”
“Someone’s gotta tell you to start upping your fibre intake.”
”You filthy bastard.”
’Johnny was panting. Quietly. Shamelessly.
Understanding now why his parents had their room on the ground floor, away from everyone else.
Ew, fuck.’
Eeehh…
In conclusion; I'm not saying the book is bad (therefore 3⭐️) but unfortunately, this one just wasn’t my favorite.
Did Not Finish
April 17, 2026The first book on this series impressed me. It was a very well written story from a genre I’ve come to not expect much.
The second book was overall disappointing, I liked parts of it.
Now this third installment just instantly put me off. Gross humor (I’m not kidding, the first few pages really wanted to drive the point home with unnecessarily off-putting details), and a main character that’s supposed to be “ADHD coded” acting like an idiot. Not my cup of tea, I will pass.
The second book was overall disappointing, I liked parts of it.
Now this third installment just instantly put me off. Gross humor (I’m not kidding, the first few pages really wanted to drive the point home with unnecessarily off-putting details), and a main character that’s supposed to be “ADHD coded” acting like an idiot. Not my cup of tea, I will pass.
March 20, 2026
Oh how I love them and need five more books from this world! I straight sobbed during a couple different parts and full on laughed out loud during others.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
April 29, 2026
Wow better than I expected! I love some alpha-alpha pairing but the brother background could have made me pause. Luckily it wasn't an issue. I liked the mating instinct and the scent marking. The wider family was great to meet as well. I think this could be my favorite one so far! The author seems to get more skilled with each book.
April 18, 2026
What a complete unicorn of a series—MM, ABO, shifter mystery romances that are focused on social welfare and inequity. As a social worker and compulsive MM romance reader, this series feels like a gift from the universe. I also appreciated CT Whistle’s autobiographical statement at the end of this installment—hi comrade! I feel the exact same way about the reading of and sometimes the writing of romance as a foil for work.
It’s funny how a mystery involving the endangerment of senior citizens and child welfare can simultaneously almost be a cozy to some degree. Taylor and Johnny are so completely at home in each other’s lives that there’s a slow intimacy that permeates the book from the get go. It’s a beautiful thing, though my brain wasn’t sure what to make of the first little bit—they were pretty much an established couple before the book started if not for their mutual insecurities. Some ABO authors make a big deal of the taboo of relationships between alphas—Leta Blake’s awesome ABO series has a really angsty book focused on this dynamic—but CT chooses to forgo this plot device. I think I kinda wanted that to be a thing as a more solid reason why it took Taylor and Johnny to see what was obvious to everyone else who knew them, but that’s a completely subjective opinion and didn’t take away from the quality of the story itself.
Anyway, I can’t wait for more from this author, though I understand why it might take some time between volumes. Added extra glitter sparkle bonus points for the fantastic cover which doesn’t stereotype what we romance readers want from a book. I wish more romance publishers/authors etc didn’t feel the need to put overly salacious covers their products.
It’s funny how a mystery involving the endangerment of senior citizens and child welfare can simultaneously almost be a cozy to some degree. Taylor and Johnny are so completely at home in each other’s lives that there’s a slow intimacy that permeates the book from the get go. It’s a beautiful thing, though my brain wasn’t sure what to make of the first little bit—they were pretty much an established couple before the book started if not for their mutual insecurities. Some ABO authors make a big deal of the taboo of relationships between alphas—Leta Blake’s awesome ABO series has a really angsty book focused on this dynamic—but CT chooses to forgo this plot device. I think I kinda wanted that to be a thing as a more solid reason why it took Taylor and Johnny to see what was obvious to everyone else who knew them, but that’s a completely subjective opinion and didn’t take away from the quality of the story itself.
Anyway, I can’t wait for more from this author, though I understand why it might take some time between volumes. Added extra glitter sparkle bonus points for the fantastic cover which doesn’t stereotype what we romance readers want from a book. I wish more romance publishers/authors etc didn’t feel the need to put overly salacious covers their products.
April 22, 2026
I enjoyed overall, but not nearly as much as the first two books, and almost DNF'd a couple of times. The author mentions in the beginning notes that one of the MCs has what is clearly undiagnosed ADHD and that it may make for a frustrating experience, and that was certainly the case for me. Particularly because nobody around him seems to recognize that he is struggling in a way that he should be seeking help for, and thus he makes zero moves to go to therapy, seek medical help etc. And while that is probably realistic considering he's an alpha (literally) male in law enforcement, it was difficult to be in his head for the whole book, see him continuously make poor choices, and then have him really make no progress in getting help.
The relationship here was sweet, and I understand the decision to do the best friends to lovers trope with the alpha/alpha pair, but it did feel like it was lacking a bit of the real tension I prefer in my pairings. IDK, I still enjoyed the writing overall, I liked that characters and cases from the previous books were woven throughout in a way that felt very natural, but this one just didn't resonate with me as much as the first two, and TBH, I'm not particularly interested in the next pairing, but I'll probably still read.
The relationship here was sweet, and I understand the decision to do the best friends to lovers trope with the alpha/alpha pair, but it did feel like it was lacking a bit of the real tension I prefer in my pairings. IDK, I still enjoyed the writing overall, I liked that characters and cases from the previous books were woven throughout in a way that felt very natural, but this one just didn't resonate with me as much as the first two, and TBH, I'm not particularly interested in the next pairing, but I'll probably still read.
series-dnf
April 18, 2026DNF @20%
Quite honestly I'm just bored. This isn't as addicting as the first two books in the series was. I also don't usually prefer alphaxalpha pairings. There are exceptions of course but this one is just not really doing it for me. I don't think this was a bad book per se, just not a book for me, and that's okay.
Quite honestly I'm just bored. This isn't as addicting as the first two books in the series was. I also don't usually prefer alphaxalpha pairings. There are exceptions of course but this one is just not really doing it for me. I don't think this was a bad book per se, just not a book for me, and that's okay.
April 19, 2026
⭐️4.5/5
April 27, 2026
This series has me OBSESSED
April 23, 2026
3.5 stars for this one from me.
Although I truly do love this series (especially book 1), it was harder for me to connect with this installment. I think my biggest reason for this was Taylor’s character and his choices. Laughing off that his “usual MO” was sleeping with married people just was a huge ick for me especially since it obviously something he did frequently. Also, the VERY detailed threesome really was not my cup of tea for a book with a romance between 2 people.
I really liked Johnny’s character though and enjoyed the found family aspects of this book.
I’m very much looking forward to the next book and seeing where the plot goes!
Although I truly do love this series (especially book 1), it was harder for me to connect with this installment. I think my biggest reason for this was Taylor’s character and his choices. Laughing off that his “usual MO” was sleeping with married people just was a huge ick for me especially since it obviously something he did frequently. Also, the VERY detailed threesome really was not my cup of tea for a book with a romance between 2 people.
I really liked Johnny’s character though and enjoyed the found family aspects of this book.
I’m very much looking forward to the next book and seeing where the plot goes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2026
ARC Review
My excitement to read this book was extremely high. Like, really high. So I was really worried that it wouldn’t live up to my expectations. I loved Hammer & Gavel and Night Call so much that I was worried that Lock Step wouldn’t live up.
Well, those concerns were unfounded. Lock Step did not disappoint. CT Whistle is so damn good at character development and world building. I am living in Dingly Heath in my mind.
Then there’s our main characters. I see myself in both JP and Taylor so you know I was rooting for these two. I love stories with imperfect characters who are good people at their core and that’s what each of these books are filled with. Great characters that grow and learn about themselves and become better people for and because of someone who changed their perspective about life and/or love.
Plus solving crimes?! Best of all worlds!
My excitement to read this book was extremely high. Like, really high. So I was really worried that it wouldn’t live up to my expectations. I loved Hammer & Gavel and Night Call so much that I was worried that Lock Step wouldn’t live up.
Well, those concerns were unfounded. Lock Step did not disappoint. CT Whistle is so damn good at character development and world building. I am living in Dingly Heath in my mind.
Then there’s our main characters. I see myself in both JP and Taylor so you know I was rooting for these two. I love stories with imperfect characters who are good people at their core and that’s what each of these books are filled with. Great characters that grow and learn about themselves and become better people for and because of someone who changed their perspective about life and/or love.
Plus solving crimes?! Best of all worlds!
April 20, 2026
Fun best friends to lovers, werewolf romance!
Y'all this book was so much fun! Johnny and Taylor are best friends who live and work together. They're so codependent and honestly kind of a mess. But there's something so endearing about them that you can't help but root for them. I thought we'd go on a journey and watch them fall for each other, but though I was a little surprised to find out that Johnny has been in love with Taylor for years, it makes sense that these two have been head over heels for each other forever.
It takes a little longer for Taylor to acknowledge his feelings (he really needed that threesome to figure things out), but even before that it's clear that his love for JP surpasses all others. They know each other better than they know themselves and are always there to give each other exactly what they need.
I also loved their relationship with their pack/family. The kids were honestly one of my favorite parts and I loved how involved JP and Taylor were in their lives. They're so protective and the moments we get to see them as wolves and as a pack were so special. It really emphasized the bond they share, with each other, and with their pack.
And I can't end this without mentioning their work crew! Isla, Amil and Wendy were such great additions to this series and I'm so excited for Amil's book next. I also have to mention the relationship Taylor built with William. The way Taylor saw himself in Will and took him under his wing was so beautiful and I just love that Will was able to find the care he'd been missing all his life.
JP and Taylor took us on quite the adventure. They're loyal and protective and love so deeply. From nail polish therapy to sharing clothes to their overprotective natures, I really enjoyed seeing them find their way to a HEA!
Y'all this book was so much fun! Johnny and Taylor are best friends who live and work together. They're so codependent and honestly kind of a mess. But there's something so endearing about them that you can't help but root for them. I thought we'd go on a journey and watch them fall for each other, but though I was a little surprised to find out that Johnny has been in love with Taylor for years, it makes sense that these two have been head over heels for each other forever.
It takes a little longer for Taylor to acknowledge his feelings (he really needed that threesome to figure things out), but even before that it's clear that his love for JP surpasses all others. They know each other better than they know themselves and are always there to give each other exactly what they need.
I also loved their relationship with their pack/family. The kids were honestly one of my favorite parts and I loved how involved JP and Taylor were in their lives. They're so protective and the moments we get to see them as wolves and as a pack were so special. It really emphasized the bond they share, with each other, and with their pack.
And I can't end this without mentioning their work crew! Isla, Amil and Wendy were such great additions to this series and I'm so excited for Amil's book next. I also have to mention the relationship Taylor built with William. The way Taylor saw himself in Will and took him under his wing was so beautiful and I just love that Will was able to find the care he'd been missing all his life.
JP and Taylor took us on quite the adventure. They're loyal and protective and love so deeply. From nail polish therapy to sharing clothes to their overprotective natures, I really enjoyed seeing them find their way to a HEA!
April 25, 2026
"It was easy to accept love when all you’d ever known was love."
alpha/alpha omegaverse owns my entire heart!!!
i literally had the release of this book marked on my calendar, i was so looking forward to it! and it did not disappoint, this was a near perfect follow up to this fun series and it had everything from mistery, to action, to steam and all the yummyness you should expect. it was fun, and sexy and made emotional multiple times.
taylor and jp were the dumb and dumber after my entire heart and all the found family vibes were to absolute die for, just a really good time all around.
C.T Whistle has me as an eager reader, ready to goble up anything and everything they publish going foward; Hammer & Gavel and Night Call: Book 2 of the Omegaverse Case Files had already hooked me, but this third installment just brought me so much joy during one of my biggest reading slumps in recent years and i'm very grateful for it.
alpha/alpha omegaverse owns my entire heart!!!
i literally had the release of this book marked on my calendar, i was so looking forward to it! and it did not disappoint, this was a near perfect follow up to this fun series and it had everything from mistery, to action, to steam and all the yummyness you should expect. it was fun, and sexy and made emotional multiple times.
taylor and jp were the dumb and dumber after my entire heart and all the found family vibes were to absolute die for, just a really good time all around.
C.T Whistle has me as an eager reader, ready to goble up anything and everything they publish going foward; Hammer & Gavel and Night Call: Book 2 of the Omegaverse Case Files had already hooked me, but this third installment just brought me so much joy during one of my biggest reading slumps in recent years and i'm very grateful for it.
April 21, 2026
2 stars - I’m so disappointed!! I have LOVED the other two books in this series and this one just was not it.
This is alpha/alpha, long-time best friends discovering true feelings and a couple of first-timers having a go. Also a very nerve-grinding character who is hellbent on making terrible choices. Just no.
This didn’t work for me at all. These two guys are possibly perfect for each other because Taylor lashes out and JP fixes it. I love me some co-dependent toxicity but this story was just a few marks left of center.
The Reno 911 feel of Dingly Heath was cute at first and then got kind of boring. I forced myself not to skim this one.
Their relationship was drawn out for no reason. Miscommunication or refusal to communicate gets on my nerves. A well-placed conversation would’ve taken 100 pages off this story.
JPs family was a central element here because the main relationship between he and Taylor was a nothing burger. The pages had to be filled with something I guess.
Overall, I think Taylor was my main issue. He was off-putting to me and I didn’t like reading his perspective. He was funny at times I guess but only when he was making things difficult for someone else.
I hope the next one is back to the standard of top-notch Omegaverse this series was before this book. The 4th one is about two omegas so that’ll probably be my jam.
This is alpha/alpha, long-time best friends discovering true feelings and a couple of first-timers having a go. Also a very nerve-grinding character who is hellbent on making terrible choices. Just no.
This didn’t work for me at all. These two guys are possibly perfect for each other because Taylor lashes out and JP fixes it. I love me some co-dependent toxicity but this story was just a few marks left of center.
The Reno 911 feel of Dingly Heath was cute at first and then got kind of boring. I forced myself not to skim this one.
Their relationship was drawn out for no reason. Miscommunication or refusal to communicate gets on my nerves. A well-placed conversation would’ve taken 100 pages off this story.
JPs family was a central element here because the main relationship between he and Taylor was a nothing burger. The pages had to be filled with something I guess.
Overall, I think Taylor was my main issue. He was off-putting to me and I didn’t like reading his perspective. He was funny at times I guess but only when he was making things difficult for someone else.
I hope the next one is back to the standard of top-notch Omegaverse this series was before this book. The 4th one is about two omegas so that’ll probably be my jam.
April 20, 2026
ARC read
4⭐️ 3🌶️
Read this if you love : MM romance novels, crime, omegaverse
Key Themes/Tropes: best friends to lovers, Alpha x Alpha, Over a decade of yearning, co-dependency, roommates, police procedural, found family, amazing banter
Why it's good: Its such a good omegaverse series with crime and police built in. I really enjoyed reading it. I think it’s very unique.
Character thoughts: I love Johnny and Taylor! Their banter, how they handle serious moments and their sweet & spicy moments were so good
✨ Final Verdict: I definitely recommend the book and the series. I really love it!!
4⭐️ 3🌶️
Read this if you love : MM romance novels, crime, omegaverse
Key Themes/Tropes: best friends to lovers, Alpha x Alpha, Over a decade of yearning, co-dependency, roommates, police procedural, found family, amazing banter
Why it's good: Its such a good omegaverse series with crime and police built in. I really enjoyed reading it. I think it’s very unique.
Character thoughts: I love Johnny and Taylor! Their banter, how they handle serious moments and their sweet & spicy moments were so good
✨ Final Verdict: I definitely recommend the book and the series. I really love it!!
May 4, 2026
This book was incredible. I adored these boys and loved every second of watching them find themselves, each other, and their place in the world. It was such a satisfying read and probably my favourite of the three. I loved the community and family Whistle created here, and can't wait to see what is in store next for us.
May 10, 2026
Rating: 4.5
Steam: 2
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: paranormal romance, omegaverse, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, pining, shifters
These two loveable idiots sure took their time to figure things out, but the journey was entertaining and suspenseful, with a lot of pining and emotions!
RTC
Steam: 2
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: paranormal romance, omegaverse, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, pining, shifters
These two loveable idiots sure took their time to figure things out, but the journey was entertaining and suspenseful, with a lot of pining and emotions!
RTC
April 23, 2026
Rating - 3.5 Stars rounded up
April 16, 2026
They made me sweat for it but then they got together and they were just the sweetest, with the sweetest family and a new set if hilarious and very intriguing coworkers!
April 16, 2026
I requested an ARC of this book, with the only stipulation that I write an honest review.
It is a lovely story of childhood friends to lovers, with so much pining! As the MCs’ relationship changes, we see their growth and development. From being side characters in previous books, a change of environment allows them to get their own HEA. As always with C T Whistle, some social issues are explored as key themes - in this book, this includes nature v nurture in childhood; as well as growing old.
- Omegaverse
- Wolf Shifters
- Alpha / Alpha
- MM
- BFF to lovers
It is a lovely story of childhood friends to lovers, with so much pining! As the MCs’ relationship changes, we see their growth and development. From being side characters in previous books, a change of environment allows them to get their own HEA. As always with C T Whistle, some social issues are explored as key themes - in this book, this includes nature v nurture in childhood; as well as growing old.
- Omegaverse
- Wolf Shifters
- Alpha / Alpha
- MM
- BFF to lovers
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book, but my review is my own.
I waffled over the star rating but ultimately went with 3 (I’d give 3.5 but Goodreads is behind the times on half star ratings) because comparatively, I enjoyed the first two books in the series more.
The Good:
- Diversity of characters. The author is excellent at writing a range of cast and characters. Johnny’s background in particular was researched and incredibly well done. I appreciated snippets of his family and life in Cameroon before moving to Britain. Additionally, the book had mental health rep (Taylor - ADHD) and asexuality rep!
- The BANTER. A common theme across this series is the dry, witty, irreverent dialogue between the characters. I laughed out loud reading so many of these lines. At one point, I added an annotation labeled ‘Recycling themed dirty talk’. I also have this gem highlighted: ‘Taylor was not religious in any way shape or form, but he could appreciate a man who got nailed for six hours straight and still came back for more.’ SEE?! Absolute bangers.
- Continuation of the case investigation. All three books are tied together through related investigations involving omegas, human trafficking, and drugs. I’ve enjoyed seeing the case unfold over the books and feel invested in the outcome by the time this series wraps up.
The Waffle
- Taylor has a ton of built up grief related to his upbringing and Sam’s death. At one point he threatens Pember and attempts to intimidate him. This occurs after Johnny’s hospitalization and is explained away as Taylor being ‘overwhelmed’, but it doesn’t seem sufficient? Taylor feels a little bad but there are no real consequences for his behavior or lack of responsibility for managing his grief/pain. He comes across more often than not as unlikeable (I know that this is a personal opinion and not everyone is going to feel like that, but Taylor has trauma that he doesn’t appropriately deal with and takes it out on others as a result)
- Some instances of police brutality against a known sex offender. Additionally, there are descriptions of an omega prison that may be difficult to read. While Johnny and Taylor (and others in Dingly Heath) are made out to be the ‘good guys’, I personally felt uncomfy about the violence portrayed between the police and the ‘bad guys’. The justice system is more often than not, very unjust. As an American reader, this hits particularly close to home. While violence is mentioned in the content warnings, I would have appreciated a more specific warning around policing and the prison system represented in the book. Also I would be remiss not to mention this…ACAB
- I think this book was meant to be a more lighthearted reprieve from the overarching storyline across the series. It definitely felt lighter in some parts (aka the banter), but overall there were still a looooot of heavy parts. This isn’t a bad thing, but I definitely went into this thinking that it would read more like a romcom (readers, it was not)
- There were some minor plot points that I wasn’t sure were resolved 100% or maybe were added in as an afterthought — William’s integration into Johnny’s family, dealing with Sam’s death, Benny Pearce, Taylor’s mom’s note at the verrrrrry end. These are probably minor but they feel like an unscratchable brain itch
I waffled over the star rating but ultimately went with 3 (I’d give 3.5 but Goodreads is behind the times on half star ratings) because comparatively, I enjoyed the first two books in the series more.
The Good:
- Diversity of characters. The author is excellent at writing a range of cast and characters. Johnny’s background in particular was researched and incredibly well done. I appreciated snippets of his family and life in Cameroon before moving to Britain. Additionally, the book had mental health rep (Taylor - ADHD) and asexuality rep!
- The BANTER. A common theme across this series is the dry, witty, irreverent dialogue between the characters. I laughed out loud reading so many of these lines. At one point, I added an annotation labeled ‘Recycling themed dirty talk’. I also have this gem highlighted: ‘Taylor was not religious in any way shape or form, but he could appreciate a man who got nailed for six hours straight and still came back for more.’ SEE?! Absolute bangers.
- Continuation of the case investigation. All three books are tied together through related investigations involving omegas, human trafficking, and drugs. I’ve enjoyed seeing the case unfold over the books and feel invested in the outcome by the time this series wraps up.
The Waffle
- Taylor has a ton of built up grief related to his upbringing and Sam’s death. At one point he threatens Pember and attempts to intimidate him. This occurs after Johnny’s hospitalization and is explained away as Taylor being ‘overwhelmed’, but it doesn’t seem sufficient? Taylor feels a little bad but there are no real consequences for his behavior or lack of responsibility for managing his grief/pain. He comes across more often than not as unlikeable (I know that this is a personal opinion and not everyone is going to feel like that, but Taylor has trauma that he doesn’t appropriately deal with and takes it out on others as a result)
- Some instances of police brutality against a known sex offender. Additionally, there are descriptions of an omega prison that may be difficult to read. While Johnny and Taylor (and others in Dingly Heath) are made out to be the ‘good guys’, I personally felt uncomfy about the violence portrayed between the police and the ‘bad guys’. The justice system is more often than not, very unjust. As an American reader, this hits particularly close to home. While violence is mentioned in the content warnings, I would have appreciated a more specific warning around policing and the prison system represented in the book. Also I would be remiss not to mention this…ACAB
- I think this book was meant to be a more lighthearted reprieve from the overarching storyline across the series. It definitely felt lighter in some parts (aka the banter), but overall there were still a looooot of heavy parts. This isn’t a bad thing, but I definitely went into this thinking that it would read more like a romcom (readers, it was not)
- There were some minor plot points that I wasn’t sure were resolved 100% or maybe were added in as an afterthought — William’s integration into Johnny’s family, dealing with Sam’s death, Benny Pearce, Taylor’s mom’s note at the verrrrrry end. These are probably minor but they feel like an unscratchable brain itch
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What fun Lock Step was!
I mean, don't get me wrong, Johnny and Taylor have all the angst, just enough longing, and all the endearing codependency that I was hoping for, but this third installment in the Omegaverse Case Files also brought plenty of moments that made me "awwwwwwwww" and laugh out loud.
Describing Lock Step without context:
It was really refreshing to get that inside look at Johnny and Taylor because these boys have so much more going on inside than we got to see previously.
Thank god for thr33somes because our gentlemen really needed to be pushed off that cliff so they could finally fly together.
Johnny and Taylor were such a cute couple despite the struggle bus that they (mostly Taylor) kept hopping on and off of. Their relationship is one that's built on a strong bedrock of friendship that's been built up by trust, affection, and acceptance.
It's not that Blake & Pember or Oliver and Lucas don't make my heart swoon just as much, but Johnny and Taylor and their friends-to-lovers dynamic just scratched an itch I didn't realize was bothering me.
Because I can't spend the entire review going on about Johnny and Taylor, I guess I'll talk about something else.
Their transfer to Falkington/Dingly Heath worked out perfectly, and I loved the new setting. Whistle still incorporates some bigger/more serious issues into their work home, but we get a lot of fun/funny details that make the small town endearing and interesting.
The new cast of supporting characters - Wendy, Amil, and Isla - give us the comedic, grumpy, and cautiously amused found family that the boys need, and I'm just as excited to see them again in future books as I am when I see Blake, Pember, Lucas, or Oliver.
Overall, I blew through Lock Step, sleep be d@mned, because there was just something about the boys and the rest of Whistle's cast of characters that just kept calling me back even when I made the mistake of checking what time it was. I'm really glad I stumbled across the first book, Hammer and Gavel
Already waiting for book four!
I mean, don't get me wrong, Johnny and Taylor have all the angst, just enough longing, and all the endearing codependency that I was hoping for, but this third installment in the Omegaverse Case Files also brought plenty of moments that made me "awwwwwwwww" and laugh out loud.
Describing Lock Step without context:
- There was cake?!
- Who can resist hedgehogs?
- My god, I want to hug Amil.
- My nails are in need of rescuing, too.
- The inclusion of Sylvester the Mol3ster is both 5-star comedy and nightmare fuel.
- Thank god for thr33somes.
- FINALLY.
- Little sisters are a curse and an adorable blessing.
- Godd@mnit, the book's over.
It was really refreshing to get that inside look at Johnny and Taylor because these boys have so much more going on inside than we got to see previously.
-Johnny is caring, organized, a bit of a mother hen, and most importantly, completely devoted to his best friend.
-Taylor is the epitome of hot mess with his impulse control issues, but he's a sweetheart on the inside, and there's nothing more he wants than to be good enough for his best friend.
Thank god for thr33somes because our gentlemen really needed to be pushed off that cliff so they could finally fly together.
Johnny and Taylor were such a cute couple despite the struggle bus that they (mostly Taylor) kept hopping on and off of. Their relationship is one that's built on a strong bedrock of friendship that's been built up by trust, affection, and acceptance.
It's not that Blake & Pember or Oliver and Lucas don't make my heart swoon just as much, but Johnny and Taylor and their friends-to-lovers dynamic just scratched an itch I didn't realize was bothering me.
Because I can't spend the entire review going on about Johnny and Taylor, I guess I'll talk about something else.
Their transfer to Falkington/Dingly Heath worked out perfectly, and I loved the new setting. Whistle still incorporates some bigger/more serious issues into their work home, but we get a lot of fun/funny details that make the small town endearing and interesting.
The new cast of supporting characters - Wendy, Amil, and Isla - give us the comedic, grumpy, and cautiously amused found family that the boys need, and I'm just as excited to see them again in future books as I am when I see Blake, Pember, Lucas, or Oliver.
Overall, I blew through Lock Step, sleep be d@mned, because there was just something about the boys and the rest of Whistle's cast of characters that just kept calling me back even when I made the mistake of checking what time it was. I'm really glad I stumbled across the first book, Hammer and Gavel
Already waiting for book four!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book three in the series and another five star read for me.
This time we got to experience a different dynamic than the previous books as this was an alpha x alpha pairing between two bestie, idiots to lovers really, who get reprimanded for being rather shit at their jobs (as police officers) so they get sent off to a quaint (shitty) little village where the average age is like 60 to help at that station. Without their weapons mind you - because they prefer to solve things in a community like way there. Holding hands and singing songs etc (not really, but you get the gist)
Without their weapons they have no choice but to make the best of it, so off they trot. It seems that chaos likes to follow them though, regardless of where they go, because it doesn’t take them long before they stumble upon a lot of naughty things happening in that town. Their police work was absolutely stellar and hilarious. And disgusting. The visual of that one arrest will stay with me until my dying day - you know the one I’m talking about. It involves a wine bottle. My god.
Anyway, in addition to their policing shenanigans, we have the developing relationship between the two. Johnny is our resident pine tree who has been in love with Taylor going on 14 years. Taylor is somewhat oblivious and yet does things that makes Johnny question where his feelings actually lie - e.g. biting his scent gland, scent marking him etc….
They figure their shit out in a very unique and hot way when they take home an omega and decide to share. Hard to hide your feelings when you’re so into your ‘threesome’ that you completely and totally forget theirs another dude there…. And almost squish him. lol. (He’s fine and gets his so don’t worry).
Johnny is very much the calm, steady one in this dynamic, slowly pushing them forward and in the right direction. Taylor was chaos personified but we love him anyway, and together they were so perfect and explosive with their chemistry. Hot damn.
Now the next book in the series will feature an omega that was arrested in a previous book for doing things... I believe I should have sussed out who their partner is going to be already, but honestly I was too focused on Taylor and Johnny so I’ve got all the gear and no idea. Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go back and do a re-read… oh no. I’m devastated.
Anyway, if you’re a fan of:
Omegaverse
Alpha v alpha
Idiots to lovers
Strong found family
Hilarious banter and police work
Kick ass side characters etc then do yourself a favour and read this entire series. Don’t start here, that would be doing yourself a disservice, but definitely read all three.
Impatiently waiting for book four and will be buying a shelf copy when they’re available.
*ARC provided by author for a full and honest review, this is my full and honest review of this book*
This time we got to experience a different dynamic than the previous books as this was an alpha x alpha pairing between two bestie, idiots to lovers really, who get reprimanded for being rather shit at their jobs (as police officers) so they get sent off to a quaint (shitty) little village where the average age is like 60 to help at that station. Without their weapons mind you - because they prefer to solve things in a community like way there. Holding hands and singing songs etc (not really, but you get the gist)
Without their weapons they have no choice but to make the best of it, so off they trot. It seems that chaos likes to follow them though, regardless of where they go, because it doesn’t take them long before they stumble upon a lot of naughty things happening in that town. Their police work was absolutely stellar and hilarious. And disgusting. The visual of that one arrest will stay with me until my dying day - you know the one I’m talking about. It involves a wine bottle. My god.
Anyway, in addition to their policing shenanigans, we have the developing relationship between the two. Johnny is our resident pine tree who has been in love with Taylor going on 14 years. Taylor is somewhat oblivious and yet does things that makes Johnny question where his feelings actually lie - e.g. biting his scent gland, scent marking him etc….
They figure their shit out in a very unique and hot way when they take home an omega and decide to share. Hard to hide your feelings when you’re so into your ‘threesome’ that you completely and totally forget theirs another dude there…. And almost squish him. lol. (He’s fine and gets his so don’t worry).
Johnny is very much the calm, steady one in this dynamic, slowly pushing them forward and in the right direction. Taylor was chaos personified but we love him anyway, and together they were so perfect and explosive with their chemistry. Hot damn.
Now the next book in the series will feature an omega that was arrested in a previous book for doing things... I believe I should have sussed out who their partner is going to be already, but honestly I was too focused on Taylor and Johnny so I’ve got all the gear and no idea. Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go back and do a re-read… oh no. I’m devastated.
Anyway, if you’re a fan of:
Omegaverse
Alpha v alpha
Idiots to lovers
Strong found family
Hilarious banter and police work
Kick ass side characters etc then do yourself a favour and read this entire series. Don’t start here, that would be doing yourself a disservice, but definitely read all three.
Impatiently waiting for book four and will be buying a shelf copy when they’re available.
*ARC provided by author for a full and honest review, this is my full and honest review of this book*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trigger warning: this review is ✨long✨ because I simply refused to shut up about my thoughts and feelings 😌
Oh man… just when you think this author can’t get any better, they prove you wrong 😭✨
Learning the author is a social worker honestly makes so much sense, the emotional depth in these books feels incredibly real. This story, like the others, explores broken homes, complicated relationships, and learning how to love through hardship. It’s bittersweet, wholesome, and definitely got me teary 🫂🩷
This time we follow Taylor and Johnny, and I absolutely loved these goofballs ❤️🔥
Childhood friends with a big old yearning (my favorite)
Johnny, a Cameron Christina Alpha, born into a loving family and Taylor a chaotic, ADHD, binge eating lovable golden retriever from a broken home.
Some of the personal and family moments really stood out too. JP talking about feeling disconnected from his childhood after immigrating hit deep 😭 As well as his aunts story!!
The setting was freaking adorable: Small British countryside town where most residences are retired and live in peace…except when fighting each other in the pharmacy for their prescription, oh man I have been there and that part made me giggle!! 😂😂
From the prescription,I was expecting more of a Miss Marple-style mystery, but it leaned more into true crime, which I didn’t mind!
The side characters were, as always, a highlight: William owns my heart, and I loved Clem, Gabrie, and Marty 😇 The new police additions: Amil, Isla, and Wendy were great (and I’m so happy Wendy found Wallace) 💖 And I’m already emotionally preparing for Ru and Amil’s story because I just know it’s going to hurt 🫠✨
I also have to say, I love the world-building in this series, especially the Omega politics and overall social structure, but I can tell things for Alphas might turn for the worst 👀✨
Also, seeing past couples again made me so happy 😭 Blake & Pember 🫶 and I still miss Oliver, Luca, and little Alfie (I need Alfie and Will to meet!!)
Overall, this was emotional, heartwarming, and full of love, growth, and found family 🫂 I’m so excited (and a little scared lol) for what’s next!!!
And lastly… I just want to say how grateful I am for receiving this ARC 🥺✨
I’m not an influencer or anything, just a genuine fan, so this already meant a lot. But getting this book during a difficult time in my life made it feel even more special. It honestly felt like a little gem in the middle of everything I’ve been going through, and the timing couldn’t have been better 💎
If the author ever happens to see this, just know I truly love what you’re creating and keep on the good work 🤧
Oh man… just when you think this author can’t get any better, they prove you wrong 😭✨
Learning the author is a social worker honestly makes so much sense, the emotional depth in these books feels incredibly real. This story, like the others, explores broken homes, complicated relationships, and learning how to love through hardship. It’s bittersweet, wholesome, and definitely got me teary 🫂🩷
This time we follow Taylor and Johnny, and I absolutely loved these goofballs ❤️🔥
Childhood friends with a big old yearning (my favorite)
Johnny, a Cameron Christina Alpha, born into a loving family and Taylor a chaotic, ADHD, binge eating lovable golden retriever from a broken home.
Some of the personal and family moments really stood out too. JP talking about feeling disconnected from his childhood after immigrating hit deep 😭 As well as his aunts story!!
The setting was freaking adorable: Small British countryside town where most residences are retired and live in peace…except when fighting each other in the pharmacy for their prescription, oh man I have been there and that part made me giggle!! 😂😂
From the prescription,I was expecting more of a Miss Marple-style mystery, but it leaned more into true crime, which I didn’t mind!
The side characters were, as always, a highlight: William owns my heart, and I loved Clem, Gabrie, and Marty 😇 The new police additions: Amil, Isla, and Wendy were great (and I’m so happy Wendy found Wallace) 💖 And I’m already emotionally preparing for Ru and Amil’s story because I just know it’s going to hurt 🫠✨
I also have to say, I love the world-building in this series, especially the Omega politics and overall social structure, but I can tell things for Alphas might turn for the worst 👀✨
Also, seeing past couples again made me so happy 😭 Blake & Pember 🫶 and I still miss Oliver, Luca, and little Alfie (I need Alfie and Will to meet!!)
Overall, this was emotional, heartwarming, and full of love, growth, and found family 🫂 I’m so excited (and a little scared lol) for what’s next!!!
And lastly… I just want to say how grateful I am for receiving this ARC 🥺✨
I’m not an influencer or anything, just a genuine fan, so this already meant a lot. But getting this book during a difficult time in my life made it feel even more special. It honestly felt like a little gem in the middle of everything I’ve been going through, and the timing couldn’t have been better 💎
If the author ever happens to see this, just know I truly love what you’re creating and keep on the good work 🤧
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Fuck me, JP. We're just idiots, aren't we? Absolute throbbing dickheads."
The romance and the mystery in this series just don't let up, does it? This was such a sweet, captivating read. I mean, the love these two had for each other from the start 😭😭. After more than 15 years spent together as "brothers" it is understandable that their bond is strong, but the way Johnny was always there and knew exactly what Taylor needed? chef's kiss
And the ✨banter✨? Top tier. I laughed so much throughout the book, they genuinely made me so happy. Although one of my favourite moments might just be Blake's remark: "[...] Taylor, I tolerate, because wherever you are, there he is. Like a fly attached to a hippo's arse."
Also, calling them idiots in love fits perfectly in my opinion, because what do you mean Taylor just liked JP as a brother/best friend and then write: "[...] Then he found one of his own bright orange hairs lodged in his [JP's] collar. He removed it, but then decided to stuff it back in."
And before I forget, I love reading omegaverse in general, because I like the "primal urges" characters have, thanks to their "animal" side. Because of this, I don't normally read alpha x alpha, but this book had everything and more of what I'm usually looking for in omegaverse books. Not only a ridiculous amount of scenting and touching, but they also made a nest (or something that worked as a nest) and there was also a lot of talk about pack, which made me so happy.
There were a lot of new characters introduced in this book and they were all (except for the bad guys, obviously) incredibly charming in their own way. Johnny's family was simply incredible, chaotic, sweet and accepting at the same time. The moments when Taylor doubted his self-worth were just heart-wrenching 😭.
I've got to say, though, I really didn't want to read the last three chapters. Not because I wasn't interested or anything, but simply because I knew the book would end 😭. I've got to say they did bring more laughter but then the last page of the book made me happy cry, but then the author's note made me cry even more.
I don't know how I feel about the main characters for the next book, but I cannot wait for it to come out and to be able to get my hands on it 🤭.
"My mate," Johnny said, pressing his nose into Taylor's scruff. Taylor nuzzled back, working his pointed nose into Johnny's undercoat. "My home."
The romance and the mystery in this series just don't let up, does it? This was such a sweet, captivating read. I mean, the love these two had for each other from the start 😭😭. After more than 15 years spent together as "brothers" it is understandable that their bond is strong, but the way Johnny was always there and knew exactly what Taylor needed? chef's kiss
And the ✨banter✨? Top tier. I laughed so much throughout the book, they genuinely made me so happy. Although one of my favourite moments might just be Blake's remark: "[...] Taylor, I tolerate, because wherever you are, there he is. Like a fly attached to a hippo's arse."
Also, calling them idiots in love fits perfectly in my opinion, because what do you mean Taylor just liked JP as a brother/best friend and then write: "[...] Then he found one of his own bright orange hairs lodged in his [JP's] collar. He removed it, but then decided to stuff it back in."
And before I forget, I love reading omegaverse in general, because I like the "primal urges" characters have, thanks to their "animal" side. Because of this, I don't normally read alpha x alpha, but this book had everything and more of what I'm usually looking for in omegaverse books. Not only a ridiculous amount of scenting and touching, but they also made a nest (or something that worked as a nest) and there was also a lot of talk about pack, which made me so happy.
There were a lot of new characters introduced in this book and they were all (except for the bad guys, obviously) incredibly charming in their own way. Johnny's family was simply incredible, chaotic, sweet and accepting at the same time. The moments when Taylor doubted his self-worth were just heart-wrenching 😭.
I've got to say, though, I really didn't want to read the last three chapters. Not because I wasn't interested or anything, but simply because I knew the book would end 😭. I've got to say they did bring more laughter but then the last page of the book made me happy cry, but then the author's note made me cry even more.
I don't know how I feel about the main characters for the next book, but I cannot wait for it to come out and to be able to get my hands on it 🤭.
"My mate," Johnny said, pressing his nose into Taylor's scruff. Taylor nuzzled back, working his pointed nose into Johnny's undercoat. "My home."
April 24, 2026
“Do you know why I loved taking care of my guns so much?”
“Because you like keeping your hands busy?”
“Well… yeah, but—It’s because I knew that if the time came and I had to shoot someone, it wouldn’t be to protect the public. It would be to protect you.”
Johnny and Taylor might be my new favorite couple in this series. Surprising, considering they didn't make a good first impression at all. They acted like dickheads in the last book that I was so turned off I didn't even know if I wanted to read their story or not. Now, I'm glad I did.
Taylor was a very tiring character. You need a lot of patience when dealing with him. I didn't know how Johnny did it for fourteen years. Only Love could make that happen and lots of compassion. But because of those, his character development was very satisfying.
Johnny was the voice of reason in this pair. He was the one who was mostly reasoning with Taylor because no one could. That was his whole character in the beginning. Always the one with the good head. Which was why I was glad he showed more of himself by the end.
The story was more of a slow paced. Honestly, I didn't really know what the plot was because I didn't read it. So I absolutely had no idea what was going to happen. Their case of Love Dust was quite subtle. It wasn't an in-your-face case, where everything was so intense. This felt more like a small town mystery compared to the first two books.
I was more invested in their relationship development than ever. I mean, hello?! Best friends to lovers trope? Yes, please! Johnny and Taylor had a strong connection. Not only were they packmates and brothers, they were partners at work as well. They were package deals. That threesome they had was fucking hot, not gonna lie! I didn't usually like third parties because I was pretty possessive of my main characters, but Theo was all about business, so I didn't feel threatened.
I did wish that we saw more of them as partners, but I did like their relationship with the other members of their small team. I loved their pack. Their mom was so sweet to notice Johnny's attraction to Taylor, and the fact that he knew that she knew and that she was very understanding of it. There was so much love in that family.
Next in line is Ru and Amil's story. Now that I'm excited about.
“Because you like keeping your hands busy?”
“Well… yeah, but—It’s because I knew that if the time came and I had to shoot someone, it wouldn’t be to protect the public. It would be to protect you.”
Johnny and Taylor might be my new favorite couple in this series. Surprising, considering they didn't make a good first impression at all. They acted like dickheads in the last book that I was so turned off I didn't even know if I wanted to read their story or not. Now, I'm glad I did.
Taylor was a very tiring character. You need a lot of patience when dealing with him. I didn't know how Johnny did it for fourteen years. Only Love could make that happen and lots of compassion. But because of those, his character development was very satisfying.
Johnny was the voice of reason in this pair. He was the one who was mostly reasoning with Taylor because no one could. That was his whole character in the beginning. Always the one with the good head. Which was why I was glad he showed more of himself by the end.
The story was more of a slow paced. Honestly, I didn't really know what the plot was because I didn't read it. So I absolutely had no idea what was going to happen. Their case of Love Dust was quite subtle. It wasn't an in-your-face case, where everything was so intense. This felt more like a small town mystery compared to the first two books.
I was more invested in their relationship development than ever. I mean, hello?! Best friends to lovers trope? Yes, please! Johnny and Taylor had a strong connection. Not only were they packmates and brothers, they were partners at work as well. They were package deals. That threesome they had was fucking hot, not gonna lie! I didn't usually like third parties because I was pretty possessive of my main characters, but Theo was all about business, so I didn't feel threatened.
I did wish that we saw more of them as partners, but I did like their relationship with the other members of their small team. I loved their pack. Their mom was so sweet to notice Johnny's attraction to Taylor, and the fact that he knew that she knew and that she was very understanding of it. There was so much love in that family.
Next in line is Ru and Amil's story. Now that I'm excited about.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lock Step was the first ARC I've ever requested, and I'm so glad I did. C.T. Whistle shares a bit of personal background in the afterword, and it makes sense to learn she has done jobs like those of her characters. One of the reasons I love this series is the gritty police-and-social-care procedural detail, office banter, and emotional cliff drops of working with folks who've been abused. You can't make all that up, at least not with the level of mingled love and frustration that breathes out of the workplace scenes in this series. Johnny, Taylor, Pember, Blake, Olly, Lucas, and their colleagues swear like sailors, prank each other, and fight like hell for vulnerable people.
Remarkably, that authenticity integrates naturally with omegaverse and shifter lore - even more in Lock Step than previous books, since we get a deeper look at a large pack dynamic. We all know this is a PNR and not The Iliad, but Whistle reps for the genre AND delivers skilled writing, tangy profane dialogue, a richly recognizable world, and tons of sensory detail. Too many PNRs feel like they could be any old rom-com with fangs or fins pasted on top. Not so here.
The romance works on the same level; it isn't schlocky, it's gritty: need, comfort, challenge, confrontation, hot spice, found family, tough communication, f*cking hot spice, laughter, longing, stupid jokes, self-discovery, the scent of your lover when nothing else will do. More spice. Did I say spice?
Johnny and Tay's story takes two characters who've been comic relief to date and gives them depth and sweetness (don't worry, they stay silly). The boys, who are both over 6 feet tall and ripped, are little emotional children when the book begins. By the end, they've grown up, grown together, and taken their places as leaders in the pack. Each member of Johnny and Tay's family is well-developed, warts and all, and feels like someone I want to know.
Highly, highly recommended. Do please read the books in order.
It's a P.S. vs. an important point, but I love how Whistle writes her characters as wolves. I live with two dogs and recognize them here.
Remarkably, that authenticity integrates naturally with omegaverse and shifter lore - even more in Lock Step than previous books, since we get a deeper look at a large pack dynamic. We all know this is a PNR and not The Iliad, but Whistle reps for the genre AND delivers skilled writing, tangy profane dialogue, a richly recognizable world, and tons of sensory detail. Too many PNRs feel like they could be any old rom-com with fangs or fins pasted on top. Not so here.
The romance works on the same level; it isn't schlocky, it's gritty: need, comfort, challenge, confrontation, hot spice, found family, tough communication, f*cking hot spice, laughter, longing, stupid jokes, self-discovery, the scent of your lover when nothing else will do. More spice. Did I say spice?
Johnny and Tay's story takes two characters who've been comic relief to date and gives them depth and sweetness (don't worry, they stay silly). The boys, who are both over 6 feet tall and ripped, are little emotional children when the book begins. By the end, they've grown up, grown together, and taken their places as leaders in the pack. Each member of Johnny and Tay's family is well-developed, warts and all, and feels like someone I want to know.
Highly, highly recommended. Do please read the books in order.
It's a P.S. vs. an important point, but I love how Whistle writes her characters as wolves. I live with two dogs and recognize them here.
April 17, 2026
The third book in the Omegaverse Case Files. I was so excited for this one and it did not disappoint ♡
Filled with all the amazing bits I love about this series- an intense police case to solve, the fun and exciting tension of omegaverse (with a new twist, HELLO alpha x alpha) & also the sweet evolution of a love story. A bit lighter on the darker subjects than the other 2 books but this fits Jonny & Taylor's chaotic energy to a T but still plenty of police procedural, past trauma & tense moments that give it the point of difference & make it equally grippy.
Jonny & Taylor's story is one side 14 years of yearning by Jonny & 14 years of being stupidly, adorably oblivious by Taylor. Jonny is the calm to Taylor's storm & tries his absolute best to keep him under control. Taylor is pure menace- bringing chaos everywhere he goes with Jonny helplessly following. I'm really not sure how they are police officers 😂 Their trouble lands them transferred to what should be a sleepy, unassuming retirement town.. only for them to end up in the middle of the biggest drug bust featuring drug crazed naked elderly omegas & a supermarket scene involving a wine bottle & a body cavity that has scorched itself into my brain.
Book 3 brings the humour in ten fold, I was losing my mind laughing and have lots of dry humour highlights to look back on but under the chaos & drama that unfolds is a tender story of found family, love & longing. Watching Jonny finally reveal his feelings & the cloud being lifted for Taylor was really sweet & these two are the real, ride or die deal. They start their sexual journey by almost squishing another guy they forget is even there & I would expect nothing less from these two. Emotional declarations of love collide with intense & sizzling spice as years of forged friendship & bond turn into more.
Taylor & Jonny aside I absolutely adored the new side characters in this book- the gang of dingly heath police are amazing & bring the comedic relief & another element of found family that I relished.
I'm so glad I stumbled upon this series & can't wait for more, I've read nothing like it before & it really is the best collision of genres.
Filled with all the amazing bits I love about this series- an intense police case to solve, the fun and exciting tension of omegaverse (with a new twist, HELLO alpha x alpha) & also the sweet evolution of a love story. A bit lighter on the darker subjects than the other 2 books but this fits Jonny & Taylor's chaotic energy to a T but still plenty of police procedural, past trauma & tense moments that give it the point of difference & make it equally grippy.
Jonny & Taylor's story is one side 14 years of yearning by Jonny & 14 years of being stupidly, adorably oblivious by Taylor. Jonny is the calm to Taylor's storm & tries his absolute best to keep him under control. Taylor is pure menace- bringing chaos everywhere he goes with Jonny helplessly following. I'm really not sure how they are police officers 😂 Their trouble lands them transferred to what should be a sleepy, unassuming retirement town.. only for them to end up in the middle of the biggest drug bust featuring drug crazed naked elderly omegas & a supermarket scene involving a wine bottle & a body cavity that has scorched itself into my brain.
Book 3 brings the humour in ten fold, I was losing my mind laughing and have lots of dry humour highlights to look back on but under the chaos & drama that unfolds is a tender story of found family, love & longing. Watching Jonny finally reveal his feelings & the cloud being lifted for Taylor was really sweet & these two are the real, ride or die deal. They start their sexual journey by almost squishing another guy they forget is even there & I would expect nothing less from these two. Emotional declarations of love collide with intense & sizzling spice as years of forged friendship & bond turn into more.
Taylor & Jonny aside I absolutely adored the new side characters in this book- the gang of dingly heath police are amazing & bring the comedic relief & another element of found family that I relished.
I'm so glad I stumbled upon this series & can't wait for more, I've read nothing like it before & it really is the best collision of genres.
April 18, 2026
Please, whatever deity or demon is listening, never let this series end. This was just an absolutely excellent installment into a series that I am completely obsessed with. Mayhaps I'd been shipping these two alphas since they were introduced and I'm so glad that this is how it was done. The pining and angst between Johnny and Taylor was so sweet. They worked so well together, both as friends and as mates.
We start this off with a note from the author warning that Taylor's ADHD may be off-putting to some readers and that may make him unlikeable. If you are offended in any way with Taylor, I'm going to need you to close the book and leave it alone. The way Taylor was written was like looking into a metaphorical mirror. Every concern, every negative thought towards his neurodivergence was so authentic. I loved Taylor immediately. That isn't to say that I didn't love Johnny just as much. I have ADHD, but I also see how my issues affect those around them so Johnny's responses to Taylor were just as well written. The romance felt slow burn. There may have been some declarations of love kind of early on, but there was a lot of back and forth, worrying, and claiming that one man wasn't good enough for the other. The romance was just so sweet and tender from start to finish.
As for the plot, it had fantastic pacing. It worked well with the romance and it had a fantastic tension built throughout. Beyond the romance, we also had great character dynamics with the Ateba pack and the way they loved and cared for each other. Johnny's mother and father were perfect. Honestly, just everything about this book, and this series as a whole, is exactly what I want with a queer shifter omegaverse romance.
We start this off with a note from the author warning that Taylor's ADHD may be off-putting to some readers and that may make him unlikeable. If you are offended in any way with Taylor, I'm going to need you to close the book and leave it alone. The way Taylor was written was like looking into a metaphorical mirror. Every concern, every negative thought towards his neurodivergence was so authentic. I loved Taylor immediately. That isn't to say that I didn't love Johnny just as much. I have ADHD, but I also see how my issues affect those around them so Johnny's responses to Taylor were just as well written. The romance felt slow burn. There may have been some declarations of love kind of early on, but there was a lot of back and forth, worrying, and claiming that one man wasn't good enough for the other. The romance was just so sweet and tender from start to finish.
As for the plot, it had fantastic pacing. It worked well with the romance and it had a fantastic tension built throughout. Beyond the romance, we also had great character dynamics with the Ateba pack and the way they loved and cared for each other. Johnny's mother and father were perfect. Honestly, just everything about this book, and this series as a whole, is exactly what I want with a queer shifter omegaverse romance.
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