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Pistols & Peonies: an urban wolf shifter romance
Blurb coming soon!
- GenresEnemies To Lovers
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2026
About the author
C.J. Primer
26 books649 followersC.J. Primer is an award-winning, bestselling author of steamy romance novels. She specializes in angsty, spicy love stories full of twists and turns and hard-fought happy endings. She writes in multiple genres, including paranormal romance, dark romance, contemporary romance, and fantasy romance. Her most popular books are the bestselling six-pack series, a collection of werewolf shifter romance novels that have captivated millions of readers worldwide across multiple reading platforms.
Follow CJ on Instagram to keep up with all of her latest releases: @c.j.primer
Follow CJ on Instagram to keep up with all of her latest releases: @c.j.primer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 28, 2026
Wowzers! Talk about chemistry—Kane and Violet have it in spades 🥵 They’re so hot, they could set the city ablaze. They both battle what they believe are the unnatural side effects to The Pairing mate bond, the Alpha orders them to cohabitate, forcing Kane and Violet to work harder to keep secrets they think they must keep from each other. While mainly Kane and Violet’s love story, PISTOLS & PEONIES also gives glimpses into the Pack’s unrest and methodical uprising against a tyrannical Alpha—interested only in his own power, control, optics, and self importance. This is good reading.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Kane
FMC:
✨Violet
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨ Windy City Wolfpack: Book 2
Tropes:
👉🏼paranormal suspense romance
👉🏼dystopian werewolf romance
👉🏼fated mates
👉🏼enemies to lovers
👉🏼age gap- 15 years 38/23
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
💥violence - underground fighting
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Kane
FMC:
✨Violet
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨ Windy City Wolfpack: Book 2
Tropes:
👉🏼paranormal suspense romance
👉🏼dystopian werewolf romance
👉🏼fated mates
👉🏼enemies to lovers
👉🏼age gap- 15 years 38/23
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
💥violence - underground fighting
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 21, 2026
Commander Kane!!! Where you been omg I am usually not one for an age gap romance even if it’s shifters but this one was the exception!!! I loved it!! I devoured this in 1/2 a day!!
Couldn’t stop once I started.
I loved the dynamic between Kane & Violet!! Their banter was *chefs kiss* the chemistry was off the charts and the spice was🔥🔥
Kane has to have control of everything and gives off major “daddy” vibes….while this also isn’t a huge favorite of mine…it was HOT in this one!! 😂
Violet is a wildcard and has issues with authority so naturally she instantly pushes Kanes limits and I was here for all of it!!
The story is great and building up to continue the plot through the series!! I can’t wait to see what’s to come!! Definitely recommend reading this one.
Couldn’t stop once I started.
I loved the dynamic between Kane & Violet!! Their banter was *chefs kiss* the chemistry was off the charts and the spice was🔥🔥
Kane has to have control of everything and gives off major “daddy” vibes….while this also isn’t a huge favorite of mine…it was HOT in this one!! 😂
Violet is a wildcard and has issues with authority so naturally she instantly pushes Kanes limits and I was here for all of it!!
The story is great and building up to continue the plot through the series!! I can’t wait to see what’s to come!! Definitely recommend reading this one.
May 12, 2026
Thank you BookSirens and CJ Primer for the ARC!
::I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.::
The intense hate and attraction is phenomenal.
Oh Commander Kane you beautiful man!! Violet brings all the sass and passion!
I really enjoyed the build-up of the relationship. I could "feel" their emotions.
I definitely will be reading more of this series!
::I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.::
The intense hate and attraction is phenomenal.
Oh Commander Kane you beautiful man!! Violet brings all the sass and passion!
I really enjoyed the build-up of the relationship. I could "feel" their emotions.
I definitely will be reading more of this series!
May 8, 2026
Pistols and Peonies is part of CJ Primer’s Windy City Pack interconnected stand-alone series, and this second installment dives deeper into the inner workings—and growing tensions—within the Chicago Pack.
This time, we follow Violet and Kane.
Violet is everything the Pack disapproves of in a she-wolf: outspoken, daring, boundary-pushing, fearless, and far too opinionated for her own good. She’s constantly labeled as “problematic,” but honestly, that’s part of what makes her so entertaining. Her rebellious streak is exactly what lands her in trouble—and directly in the Alpha’s line of sight.
Then there’s Kane, the Pack Commander. Second only to the Alpha, Kane is the embodiment of discipline, control, and strength. His wolf is powerful enough to threaten the Alpha’s dominance, making him both respected and dangerous. To punish Violet for her actions—and to keep Kane’s wolf under control—the Alpha forces them into a mate bond, Chicago Pack style.
What begins as punishment slowly starts to feel like fate.
Both Violet and Kane carry secrets and pieces of themselves they refuse to compromise on, but life—and destiny—have other plans. Their chemistry is intense, their push-and-pull addictive, and watching two people who fight control in completely different ways learn to navigate each other was incredibly satisfying.
While the first book introduced us to the Pack from an outsider’s perspective, this one truly pulls back the curtain on the Pack’s politics, tensions, and the turmoil brewing beneath the surface. You can feel something much bigger building for the future books.
This is also an age-gap romance, which normally isn’t my thing, but CJ once again proves she has a talent for making tropes work in ways you don’t expect. She found the perfect balance, and I ended up loving their dynamic far more than I anticipated.
I seriously can’t wait to see what happens next with this Pack.
This time, we follow Violet and Kane.
Violet is everything the Pack disapproves of in a she-wolf: outspoken, daring, boundary-pushing, fearless, and far too opinionated for her own good. She’s constantly labeled as “problematic,” but honestly, that’s part of what makes her so entertaining. Her rebellious streak is exactly what lands her in trouble—and directly in the Alpha’s line of sight.
Then there’s Kane, the Pack Commander. Second only to the Alpha, Kane is the embodiment of discipline, control, and strength. His wolf is powerful enough to threaten the Alpha’s dominance, making him both respected and dangerous. To punish Violet for her actions—and to keep Kane’s wolf under control—the Alpha forces them into a mate bond, Chicago Pack style.
What begins as punishment slowly starts to feel like fate.
Both Violet and Kane carry secrets and pieces of themselves they refuse to compromise on, but life—and destiny—have other plans. Their chemistry is intense, their push-and-pull addictive, and watching two people who fight control in completely different ways learn to navigate each other was incredibly satisfying.
While the first book introduced us to the Pack from an outsider’s perspective, this one truly pulls back the curtain on the Pack’s politics, tensions, and the turmoil brewing beneath the surface. You can feel something much bigger building for the future books.
This is also an age-gap romance, which normally isn’t my thing, but CJ once again proves she has a talent for making tropes work in ways you don’t expect. She found the perfect balance, and I ended up loving their dynamic far more than I anticipated.
I seriously can’t wait to see what happens next with this Pack.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5 Stars hands down.⭐️
Spice level perfect🌶️
Werewolf/Shifter romance: Arranged mating, Enemies to lovers, Forced proximity, 15-year age gap, Bratty FMC and Broody MMC.
Violet is a 23 year old women still finding her way. She had a rough childhood that led to her rebelliousness. She lands herself into some trouble and leads herself right into the crossed arms of our MMC.
Kane is 38 year old Commander/enforcer for the Windy City Wolf Pack and the Alphas right hand man. He is your typical Broody Alpha Male who doesn't want a women cramping his style and routine.
Violet and Kane are arranged to become mates. Violets punishment for her crimes and Kanes punishment to meet the Alphas perceived needs for the pack. The slow burn and tension of this arranged mating is beautifully written. You can feel the tension and when it finally snaps and the love Violet and Kane feel for each other burns brightly. Love the banter between them and how it turned into their love language.
The twists of the story with the rebellion and Rougue were interesting to read. I am curious how the story of this pack plays out. You saw the need for change in the first book of these series and it's nice that theme is still flowing through.
Favorite Quote: "Violet's not just my mate, she's f*ucking everything." 😍
C.J. has written a great connected universe. I cannot wait to see who the next Windy City Wolf Pack book is about.
Thank you to C.J. Primer for the ARC of this book, which I received for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Spice level perfect🌶️
Werewolf/Shifter romance: Arranged mating, Enemies to lovers, Forced proximity, 15-year age gap, Bratty FMC and Broody MMC.
Violet is a 23 year old women still finding her way. She had a rough childhood that led to her rebelliousness. She lands herself into some trouble and leads herself right into the crossed arms of our MMC.
Kane is 38 year old Commander/enforcer for the Windy City Wolf Pack and the Alphas right hand man. He is your typical Broody Alpha Male who doesn't want a women cramping his style and routine.
Violet and Kane are arranged to become mates. Violets punishment for her crimes and Kanes punishment to meet the Alphas perceived needs for the pack. The slow burn and tension of this arranged mating is beautifully written. You can feel the tension and when it finally snaps and the love Violet and Kane feel for each other burns brightly. Love the banter between them and how it turned into their love language.
The twists of the story with the rebellion and Rougue were interesting to read. I am curious how the story of this pack plays out. You saw the need for change in the first book of these series and it's nice that theme is still flowing through.
Favorite Quote: "Violet's not just my mate, she's f*ucking everything." 😍
C.J. has written a great connected universe. I cannot wait to see who the next Windy City Wolf Pack book is about.
Thank you to C.J. Primer for the ARC of this book, which I received for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
May 12, 2026
Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Ok, here's the thing. I liked this book, I liked it a lot, but there were a couple of things that stopped it getting 5 stars.
I'll do the good stuff first.
I loved, I mean LOVED the fact that these two hated each other at first, but they both felt the pull, even if they weren't fully aware what that meant. They butted heads, and fought, HARD, against the mating, and I loved watching them fall. Once they give in to it, though, they fall hard and fast, and it gets steamy and smexy super quick!
I loved that fact that the clues sent you one way, but the truth is something else entirely. I love being kept on my toes about the leader of the rebellion.
Both Kane (Oh, I loved that only his brother uses his first name!) and Violet have a say, in the first person. Now, it is present tense, but it didn't bother me so much in this book.
Now, the not so good.
I haven't read the first book Heroes & Hitmen. I don't know if I missed anything by not doing so, but I think for me, maybe I should have read it first. I felt I was missing something important, and ya'll know how my book brain makes me share my book feelings, and the feelings was strong on this point.
Also, I felt the ending was a bit of a let down. I was waiting for the rebellion, and I was waiting for a certain person to be ousted and I don't get either.
So, because of those 2 points,
4 very good, I will read future books though, stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Ok, here's the thing. I liked this book, I liked it a lot, but there were a couple of things that stopped it getting 5 stars.
I'll do the good stuff first.
I loved, I mean LOVED the fact that these two hated each other at first, but they both felt the pull, even if they weren't fully aware what that meant. They butted heads, and fought, HARD, against the mating, and I loved watching them fall. Once they give in to it, though, they fall hard and fast, and it gets steamy and smexy super quick!
I loved that fact that the clues sent you one way, but the truth is something else entirely. I love being kept on my toes about the leader of the rebellion.
Both Kane (Oh, I loved that only his brother uses his first name!) and Violet have a say, in the first person. Now, it is present tense, but it didn't bother me so much in this book.
Now, the not so good.
I haven't read the first book Heroes & Hitmen. I don't know if I missed anything by not doing so, but I think for me, maybe I should have read it first. I felt I was missing something important, and ya'll know how my book brain makes me share my book feelings, and the feelings was strong on this point.
Also, I felt the ending was a bit of a let down. I was waiting for the rebellion, and I was waiting for a certain person to be ousted and I don't get either.
So, because of those 2 points,
4 very good, I will read future books though, stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
April 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3.5/5 Spice
I just finished Pistols & Peonies by C.J. Primer, and I’m pretty sure I’ve found my new favorite shifter romance. This is easily her grittiest book to date, and I loved every second of it. Yes, it’s spicy, very spicy, but the spice means something here. Kane and Violet are two fiercely independent people who are used to solving their own problems and trusting no one. So, when they collide, the only language they know how to speak is heat, tension, and instinct. And C.J. absolutely nails it.
Violet is everything I adore in a heroine: hot headed, determined, wildly independent, and unwilling to take answers from anyone. She’s a kick butt shifter woman through and through, and she owns every page she’s on. Kane, on the other hand, is broody, grumpy, and downright feral he’s always “Commander” to Violet for a reason. Their chemistry is explosive, but what really hooked me is how they figure things out together, even when communication isn’t exactly their strong suit.
I also love that there’s a bigger storyline threading through this series you can feel the setup for what’s coming, and I’m already itching for the next book. Truly, when is it dropping, because I’m ready now.
If you want a gritty shifter romance with two leads forced together by circumstances they didn’t choose, who work through their chaos with scorching tension and very little actual talking, run, don’t walk, to pick this one up. You’re in for a wild ride.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3.5/5 Spice
I just finished Pistols & Peonies by C.J. Primer, and I’m pretty sure I’ve found my new favorite shifter romance. This is easily her grittiest book to date, and I loved every second of it. Yes, it’s spicy, very spicy, but the spice means something here. Kane and Violet are two fiercely independent people who are used to solving their own problems and trusting no one. So, when they collide, the only language they know how to speak is heat, tension, and instinct. And C.J. absolutely nails it.
Violet is everything I adore in a heroine: hot headed, determined, wildly independent, and unwilling to take answers from anyone. She’s a kick butt shifter woman through and through, and she owns every page she’s on. Kane, on the other hand, is broody, grumpy, and downright feral he’s always “Commander” to Violet for a reason. Their chemistry is explosive, but what really hooked me is how they figure things out together, even when communication isn’t exactly their strong suit.
I also love that there’s a bigger storyline threading through this series you can feel the setup for what’s coming, and I’m already itching for the next book. Truly, when is it dropping, because I’m ready now.
If you want a gritty shifter romance with two leads forced together by circumstances they didn’t choose, who work through their chaos with scorching tension and very little actual talking, run, don’t walk, to pick this one up. You’re in for a wild ride.
April 25, 2026
I love how each book is different from the last. The Chicago pack is not a like a normal pack we are used to, they live in a city and in high rises. Fated mates are rare and arranged matings are the norm. The Pairing is like a mate lottery but rewards pack members by being able to choose from applicant pool.
We have Kane and Violet, forced into an arranged mating due to unfortunate circumstances. Kane holds a high ranking and is trusted by Alpha Gage, this is important as the series continues and reveals later in the book. However Kane is essentially a recluse, he wants to be alone, just works and sleeps. Violet is the complete opposite and the way they clash is *chef’s kiss*.
Their mating isn’t like normal arranged matings, there are signs that they are fated and thankfully Kane doesn’t allow the evil scientist Dr Aspen to use them as lab rats to test out his theory. So we don’t really get that official confirmation so I think it’s up to interpretation.
It’s not a full on slow burn in terms of spice but relationship wise it’s a slow burn. There’s a lot of “it’s just physical to keep our wolves happy.” The spice was top notch as usual and the way their relationship develops is right. I really enjoy reading the relationships CJ creates because the way each progresses despite the circumstances is believable.
I hope we see more of them in the next book and I can’t wait to read how this series pans out.
We have Kane and Violet, forced into an arranged mating due to unfortunate circumstances. Kane holds a high ranking and is trusted by Alpha Gage, this is important as the series continues and reveals later in the book. However Kane is essentially a recluse, he wants to be alone, just works and sleeps. Violet is the complete opposite and the way they clash is *chef’s kiss*.
Their mating isn’t like normal arranged matings, there are signs that they are fated and thankfully Kane doesn’t allow the evil scientist Dr Aspen to use them as lab rats to test out his theory. So we don’t really get that official confirmation so I think it’s up to interpretation.
It’s not a full on slow burn in terms of spice but relationship wise it’s a slow burn. There’s a lot of “it’s just physical to keep our wolves happy.” The spice was top notch as usual and the way their relationship develops is right. I really enjoy reading the relationships CJ creates because the way each progresses despite the circumstances is believable.
I hope we see more of them in the next book and I can’t wait to read how this series pans out.
May 3, 2026
Unexpectedly Devoured This Book
NGL Besties… I went into "Pistols & Peonies" expecting a decent shifter read... and came out fully obsessed, slightly unhinged, and craving more of this chaotic, tension-filled energy. 🤭
From the very first chapter, the suspense grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go. Violet is pure defiance wrapped in attitude, and Kane? Broody, controlling, and absolutely the last man she’d ever willingly choose… which makes their forced pairing DELICIOUS. The animosity? Top-tier. The tension? Suffocating in the best way. I was giggling, stressed, and fanning myself all at once.
And let’s talk about that elevator scene… whew. 🥵 The push-and-pull between them is electric... hate turning into something far more dangerous, and honestly, I ate it up. Every interaction felt like a ticking time bomb ready to explode.💥
What really surprised me? I’m not even a big shifter romance reader, but this one pulled me all the way in. Between the suspense, the politics, and that slow-burn, 'enemies to lovers' chaos, I couldn’t put it down.💯
If you love intense chemistry, forced proximity, and a story that keeps you on edge... this one belongs in your TBR!😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3.5/5
🥀 My ratings and review are my own. For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
NGL Besties… I went into "Pistols & Peonies" expecting a decent shifter read... and came out fully obsessed, slightly unhinged, and craving more of this chaotic, tension-filled energy. 🤭
From the very first chapter, the suspense grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go. Violet is pure defiance wrapped in attitude, and Kane? Broody, controlling, and absolutely the last man she’d ever willingly choose… which makes their forced pairing DELICIOUS. The animosity? Top-tier. The tension? Suffocating in the best way. I was giggling, stressed, and fanning myself all at once.
And let’s talk about that elevator scene… whew. 🥵 The push-and-pull between them is electric... hate turning into something far more dangerous, and honestly, I ate it up. Every interaction felt like a ticking time bomb ready to explode.💥
What really surprised me? I’m not even a big shifter romance reader, but this one pulled me all the way in. Between the suspense, the politics, and that slow-burn, 'enemies to lovers' chaos, I couldn’t put it down.💯
If you love intense chemistry, forced proximity, and a story that keeps you on edge... this one belongs in your TBR!😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3.5/5
🥀 My ratings and review are my own. For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
April 28, 2026
I’ve just finished an advance reader’s copy of this book, and I’m genuinely grateful for the opportunity to CJ Primer.
It’s an easy, engaging, and beautifully written story. Violet and Kane are actually more alike than they’d like to admit—both stubborn, fiercely independent, and unwilling to compromise. These similarities make their dynamic even more challenging, especially since they’ve been forced into a mating neither of them truly wants to embrace.
Violet, aptly described by Kane as “violent,” is a fiery and headstrong shifter who refuses to make things easy for him. She’s determined, and fiercely protective of her independence. Kane, on the other hand, is disciplined, calculated, and undeniably dangerous—yet he still shows a level of respect and care toward his mate that adds depth to his character.
The slow-burn tension and constant push-and-pull between them made for a thoroughly entertaining read.
The book is currently available on Amazon, and if you enjoy strong characters, slow-burn romance, this one is definitely worth picking up.
It’s an easy, engaging, and beautifully written story. Violet and Kane are actually more alike than they’d like to admit—both stubborn, fiercely independent, and unwilling to compromise. These similarities make their dynamic even more challenging, especially since they’ve been forced into a mating neither of them truly wants to embrace.
Violet, aptly described by Kane as “violent,” is a fiery and headstrong shifter who refuses to make things easy for him. She’s determined, and fiercely protective of her independence. Kane, on the other hand, is disciplined, calculated, and undeniably dangerous—yet he still shows a level of respect and care toward his mate that adds depth to his character.
The slow-burn tension and constant push-and-pull between them made for a thoroughly entertaining read.
The book is currently available on Amazon, and if you enjoy strong characters, slow-burn romance, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“You deserve someone who sees you, all of you, and loves you for exactly who you are.”
Kane and Violet are absolute fire. The banter and the back-and-forth between these two was so freaking entertaining. I did not want to put the book down.
The chemistry between Kane and Violet was completely explosive. I loved seeing how their relationship evolved, but I loved even more how they never stopped having that primal need for each other. And can we talk about how Kane is a complete simp for Violet, but in the most possessive primal way. Ugh! More please!
I am dying to see what CJ will come up with next, and how the plot with what's happening in the pack will continue to develop throughout the series.
Quote: “Violet Slayter is a wild thing. Sharp tongue, quick fists. Fire in her blood. The last thing I want is to be the reason any of that burns out—her spark is one of the many things I love about her.”
Kane and Violet are absolute fire. The banter and the back-and-forth between these two was so freaking entertaining. I did not want to put the book down.
The chemistry between Kane and Violet was completely explosive. I loved seeing how their relationship evolved, but I loved even more how they never stopped having that primal need for each other. And can we talk about how Kane is a complete simp for Violet, but in the most possessive primal way. Ugh! More please!
I am dying to see what CJ will come up with next, and how the plot with what's happening in the pack will continue to develop throughout the series.
Quote: “Violet Slayter is a wild thing. Sharp tongue, quick fists. Fire in her blood. The last thing I want is to be the reason any of that burns out—her spark is one of the many things I love about her.”
April 25, 2026
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall: 🥵 oh my good gracious Mrs Primer. This book is phenomenal. It is oh so very spicy but oh so very good. Kane and Violet are truly perfect for each other. The tension and attraction between these two are chefs kiss. I have not had a serious book boyfriend in a long time and Kane has taken the cake. He is domineering, possessive, grumpy and oh so fine. He really highlights my daddy issues and I love and hate it all at the same time. At times Violet felt immature but I all around love her energy still.
I must confess I haven’t read the first in this series but this book set up the next book so well that I NEED the second. I enjoy how much more this series and this pack are in tune with their wolf side. It truly feels like a part of them. I know it’s because of how they life as a pack compared to C.J.’s other series. I cannot recommend this book enough to shifter romance lovers.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall: 🥵 oh my good gracious Mrs Primer. This book is phenomenal. It is oh so very spicy but oh so very good. Kane and Violet are truly perfect for each other. The tension and attraction between these two are chefs kiss. I have not had a serious book boyfriend in a long time and Kane has taken the cake. He is domineering, possessive, grumpy and oh so fine. He really highlights my daddy issues and I love and hate it all at the same time. At times Violet felt immature but I all around love her energy still.
I must confess I haven’t read the first in this series but this book set up the next book so well that I NEED the second. I enjoy how much more this series and this pack are in tune with their wolf side. It truly feels like a part of them. I know it’s because of how they life as a pack compared to C.J.’s other series. I cannot recommend this book enough to shifter romance lovers.
April 26, 2026
4 5⭐
This book gripped me from the start and I loved that Violet and Kane had to really earn each other's love. This book is filled with defiance, dominance and chemistry that Scorched the pages. This was a truly brilliant enemy to lovers book.
Violet is officially one of my favourite fmcs I have read, I loved everything about her from her grit, sass, defiance and the fact she never backed down from her beliefs or being unapologetically herself. She was a force to be reckoned with and the only force who could match Kane. Kane was a fantastically written mmc, he was gruff, brooding and full of secrets, his character growth was amazing.
I loved the pace of this book, the little revelations throughout the book and the story building for future books. As always CJs shifter books are unlike any others with an edge to them I haven't read in before. I can't recommend this enough.
This book gripped me from the start and I loved that Violet and Kane had to really earn each other's love. This book is filled with defiance, dominance and chemistry that Scorched the pages. This was a truly brilliant enemy to lovers book.
Violet is officially one of my favourite fmcs I have read, I loved everything about her from her grit, sass, defiance and the fact she never backed down from her beliefs or being unapologetically herself. She was a force to be reckoned with and the only force who could match Kane. Kane was a fantastically written mmc, he was gruff, brooding and full of secrets, his character growth was amazing.
I loved the pace of this book, the little revelations throughout the book and the story building for future books. As always CJs shifter books are unlike any others with an edge to them I haven't read in before. I can't recommend this enough.
May 1, 2026
I don't know what CJ puts in these books but I can't get enough of them. I devoured this book in a matter of hours, it was that DAMN good.
Kane and Violet are the epitome of opposites attract despite the age gap. Their tension/chemistry was palpable through the pages, even their banter and fighting was hotly intense.
Kane just gives “Daddy” vibes with his control issues, rule following, and stern commands. Violet is a feisty, fierce badass wildcard who loathes authority and loves to drive Kane crazy. After being forced together in an arranged mating, they loved to hate until they didn't. She made him actually live life while he never tried to change her. But…. When he “tried” to reel her in.. 🥵🥵
I'm sad this one is over, ready for book 3. I'm dying to know who is next especially with the twists and turns CJ hooks you with in this one!
Kane and Violet are the epitome of opposites attract despite the age gap. Their tension/chemistry was palpable through the pages, even their banter and fighting was hotly intense.
Kane just gives “Daddy” vibes with his control issues, rule following, and stern commands. Violet is a feisty, fierce badass wildcard who loathes authority and loves to drive Kane crazy. After being forced together in an arranged mating, they loved to hate until they didn't. She made him actually live life while he never tried to change her. But…. When he “tried” to reel her in.. 🥵🥵
I'm sad this one is over, ready for book 3. I'm dying to know who is next especially with the twists and turns CJ hooks you with in this one!
April 26, 2026
There is an addictive subtle tension in all of CJ books, not just the storyline at hand but the undercurrent of the wider universe and omg it feels good to sink back into it even if it grows with every book, edging and teasing the reader, speculating to the resulting crescendo and how we will get there.
CJ is absolutely spot on with her comments about these characters, I did not want their story to end, their continued tension and growth was beautifully crafted providing gut punches of the twists and turns. I really truly hope they will appear again in others stories from the Windy City Wolfpack.
Thank you for continuing to craft these characters and give me the opportunity to read them.
CJ is absolutely spot on with her comments about these characters, I did not want their story to end, their continued tension and growth was beautifully crafted providing gut punches of the twists and turns. I really truly hope they will appear again in others stories from the Windy City Wolfpack.
Thank you for continuing to craft these characters and give me the opportunity to read them.
April 27, 2026
I loved this latest book in the Heroes and Hitmen series. I wasn’t sure what to expect after the first few chapters with these new characters, but the push and pull between Violet and Kane was quite addicting--you couldn't figure out if they'd kill or kiss each other at each encounter. Neither are quite who they seem to be on the surface, and I enjoyed watching them reveal their true personalities and learn to trust each other, especially as their secrets unraveled. Kane has the bigger secret in my opinion (and one I definitely didn’t see coming!) and not everything will be resolved with the Windy City wolf pack by the end of the book…which means I can’t wait until the next one comes out later this year!!
May 6, 2026
Kane and Violet are 2 completely different people. He’s uptight and by the book, She’s a free spirit that takes no crap and kicks butt in the illegal fight rings. They are paired by their egotistical alpha and made to mate scientifically, instead of being fated mates. This storyline was great because they were actually fated mates and their inner wolves gave them no peace when they tried to fight it. The Resistance is something they hide from each other, not knowing they were both fighting for change. Lot’s of healthy, hot sex with some BDSM spanking and “Daddy” word play. 4✨’s for a well written first book in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What happens when the fierce wildcard is paired and bonded to the needs-to-be-in-control Commander?
Delicious. Daddy. Vibes!
Kane and Violet have such incredible tension. Their banter was perfect, the chemistry was off the charts, and the spice was intense. Since Violet is a rebel at heart with a natural defiance for authority, watching her relentlessly test the Commander's limits was easily the highlight of the story.
I couldn’t put this down! It was a total page-turner from start to finish—this is a must-read recommendation.
*Please read trigger and content warnings.*
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advanced copy.
Delicious. Daddy. Vibes!
Kane and Violet have such incredible tension. Their banter was perfect, the chemistry was off the charts, and the spice was intense. Since Violet is a rebel at heart with a natural defiance for authority, watching her relentlessly test the Commander's limits was easily the highlight of the story.
I couldn’t put this down! It was a total page-turner from start to finish—this is a must-read recommendation.
*Please read trigger and content warnings.*
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advanced copy.
April 25, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from Author
Oh. My. Gooooooooood this book was so good. I’ve been following C.J. Since Good Novel and have loved every book she does but this one is one of the best she’s ever done! I was swept up immediately and became obsessed with these characters! Kane is in my top 10 MMC’s (morally-gray ✔️, touch her and die ✔️, thick in all areas ✔️) and Violet is an S-tier badass who I would definitely let rough me up a bit. And lord the SPICE!!!! So f-ing hot I couldn’t get enough of it! I can’t wait for the rest of the stories in the WCWP world to flourish in C.J.’s brilliant mind and grace my digital smut shelf.
Oh. My. Gooooooooood this book was so good. I’ve been following C.J. Since Good Novel and have loved every book she does but this one is one of the best she’s ever done! I was swept up immediately and became obsessed with these characters! Kane is in my top 10 MMC’s (morally-gray ✔️, touch her and die ✔️, thick in all areas ✔️) and Violet is an S-tier badass who I would definitely let rough me up a bit. And lord the SPICE!!!! So f-ing hot I couldn’t get enough of it! I can’t wait for the rest of the stories in the WCWP world to flourish in C.J.’s brilliant mind and grace my digital smut shelf.
April 30, 2026
I don't know what it is about shifter romance books that C J Primer writes, but I just love them. Kane and Violet kept me interested with their dynamics. Kane is just under the Alpha of the pack and is feared by most while Violet has trouble with authority and is a little rough around the edges. They get pushed together in a ceremony to force them to become mates and reading how their relationship evolves and how spicy it gets at times was hot. They tried to fight it but the pull was just too challenging. The tension between the two made me not want to put the book down. This is a great addition to the series.
Did Not Finish
May 3, 2026It feels like the author is new to the wolf shifter dynamics. I finished one third of the book and both MC's are still throwing teenage tantrums.
May 13, 2026
He bought her Lucky Charms!
Violet is an MMA fighting omega. She cleans the clocks of male fighters for extra money. Her BFF drags her to a resistance rally. Violet is in the wrong place at the wrong time because of Char. Arrested, she is given a choice between a forced pairing or the reaper squad. Kane’s Alpha thinks he needs an omega. Since Violet chooses pairing and she gets stuck with the pack’s second in command, Kane. These two are soo alike but waaaayyyy different. Kane is keeping secrets that could cost lives and Violet hasn’t told him about her fighting job. This is a cool twist on an omegaverse romance.
Violet is an MMA fighting omega. She cleans the clocks of male fighters for extra money. Her BFF drags her to a resistance rally. Violet is in the wrong place at the wrong time because of Char. Arrested, she is given a choice between a forced pairing or the reaper squad. Kane’s Alpha thinks he needs an omega. Since Violet chooses pairing and she gets stuck with the pack’s second in command, Kane. These two are soo alike but waaaayyyy different. Kane is keeping secrets that could cost lives and Violet hasn’t told him about her fighting job. This is a cool twist on an omegaverse romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG DELICIOUS TENSION.
This book has the best enemies to lovers tension, sass, steam and eventually spice. The build up is my absolute favorite in romance books and then when the two characters give in...BANG. Literally. So freaking good.
C.J. Primer writes such interesting, thrilling and addictive wolf shifter romances and has some of the BEST TROPES. Enemies to lovers, forced mating/marriage, forced proximity, 15-year age gap, sassy/bratty FMC and a silver fox MMC. So good.
This story was exactly what I wanted and needed. I can't wait for more Windy City Wolfpack!
This book has the best enemies to lovers tension, sass, steam and eventually spice. The build up is my absolute favorite in romance books and then when the two characters give in...BANG. Literally. So freaking good.
C.J. Primer writes such interesting, thrilling and addictive wolf shifter romances and has some of the BEST TROPES. Enemies to lovers, forced mating/marriage, forced proximity, 15-year age gap, sassy/bratty FMC and a silver fox MMC. So good.
This story was exactly what I wanted and needed. I can't wait for more Windy City Wolfpack!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Violet and Commander Kane are 🔥🔥🔥 from the very start! There is so much tension and passion! Despite being forced together, and doing their best to fight it, fate has other plans. Violet is headstrong and fierce. She is a force to be reckoned with. Kane is controlled and strategic and as you learn more about him, you learn just how significant that is for everyone. They are both dominating on their own, but put them together and they are darn near unstoppable. Things are changing in the windy city and I'm looking forward to the crazy ride that is still to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow...Just WOW! Pistols & Peonies by C.J. Primer is the 2nd book in the Windy City Wolfpack series. An urban wolf shifter romance. I fell so in love with this book! Daddy Kane & Violet are absolutely made for each other. These 2 made a home in my heart. Perfect example of opposites attract. And HOT as fire! The spice between these two is fckn HOT. All fury & defiance steeped in all-consuming chemistry. With all the brat taming and the daddy kink the chemistry was off the charts. Ofcourse it ends in a well deserved happy ending. I can't wait for book3! Another fantastic read from C.J.
April 28, 2026
5⭐
3.5 🌶️
Another absolute banger from CJ!! This is shaping up to be an amazing series and I can not wait for more. The way these two lit up the pages with their banter, and then the spice I couldn't put it down.
Violet and Kane are practically thrown together in an arranged mating after Violet finds her self in the wrong place at the wrong time. If you want the definition of forced proximity with enemies to lovers and tension so thick until it explodes its these two.
Violet was edgy, sassy, and a baddie for an FMC and Kane was her total opposite in every way, controlled, structured, rule follower but together these two were absolutely amazing.
3.5 🌶️
Another absolute banger from CJ!! This is shaping up to be an amazing series and I can not wait for more. The way these two lit up the pages with their banter, and then the spice I couldn't put it down.
Violet and Kane are practically thrown together in an arranged mating after Violet finds her self in the wrong place at the wrong time. If you want the definition of forced proximity with enemies to lovers and tension so thick until it explodes its these two.
Violet was edgy, sassy, and a baddie for an FMC and Kane was her total opposite in every way, controlled, structured, rule follower but together these two were absolutely amazing.
April 27, 2026
Book two in the Windy City Wolfpack series, and Commander Kane and Violet are HOT!
Age gap, forced mating (Eugh to the Alpha! IYKYK) a dominant MMC and some serious brat behaviour from the FMC makes for some seriously heated chapters! 🥵
There is action in this book, and a couple of interesting twists, but I feel like this one is setting up a bit of a backstory for the future books in this series.
As always, I loved this book. Can’t wait to hear more about Violet and Kane, am seriously hope his brother gets some more attention in future books!
4 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
Age gap, forced mating (Eugh to the Alpha! IYKYK) a dominant MMC and some serious brat behaviour from the FMC makes for some seriously heated chapters! 🥵
There is action in this book, and a couple of interesting twists, but I feel like this one is setting up a bit of a backstory for the future books in this series.
As always, I loved this book. Can’t wait to hear more about Violet and Kane, am seriously hope his brother gets some more attention in future books!
4 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
May 6, 2026
I really enjoyed this book and the development of the story overall. It follows along as Violet and Commander Kane develop a tumultuous and complicated relationship.
I did find some of the repetitive syntax detracted from the read for me, but I was ultimately hooked on this novel and the relationship of these two characters. Can’t wait to read the rest of the WindyCity Pack series!
I received an advanced reader copy of Pistols and Peonies from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I did find some of the repetitive syntax detracted from the read for me, but I was ultimately hooked on this novel and the relationship of these two characters. Can’t wait to read the rest of the WindyCity Pack series!
I received an advanced reader copy of Pistols and Peonies from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 8, 2026
The whole Windy City Wolfpack series is addicting including this second book. It took me three late and long evenings but each time it was difficult to put the book down and go to sleep. 🙂 I totally loved Violet and Derek (Kane). Though they ended up together accidentally and not by their own choice, road till their “happily ever after” never looked dull. Spiciness level was just right. Some side characters could have played bigger roles, but I believe they might have their own books later in the series. Overall great book, C.J.!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pistols & Peonies is book two of the Windy City Wolfpack Series.
The intensity between Violet and Kane was off the charts. They had massive chemistry and even though they were thrown together into something neither wanted, the bond between them kept flourishing. We delve more into the pack dynamics and how things are being run from within. As the series progresses I am sure we will finally see the innerworkings within the pack change for the better.
The intensity between Violet and Kane was off the charts. They had massive chemistry and even though they were thrown together into something neither wanted, the bond between them kept flourishing. We delve more into the pack dynamics and how things are being run from within. As the series progresses I am sure we will finally see the innerworkings within the pack change for the better.
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