Heather Renee is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives in Oregon. She writes Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy novels with a mixture of romance, humor, and sass. Her love of reading eventually led to her passion of writing and giving the gift of escapism.
When Heather's not writing, she's spending time with her loving husband and beautiful daughter, going on their own adventures. She loves to hear from her fans, so visit her website: www.HeatherReneeAuthor.com and check out the Contact Me page for ways to connect.
The story is fun. It follows the familur plot, human finds out she is not human. Has powerful abilities she cannot really control. Protective mate, dead mom, mysteries father and a whole lot of creatures who want her removed...permanently.
The difference? She has some family and she is an absolute idiot. Being absolutely annoyed with the FMCs decisions for most of the book is what lost this a star. She even acknowledges what would be the right decisions in her head as she justifies making the idiotic ones.
Like I said, this is a fun read, but you might want to tape a thick pillow against the wall so that you have a soft place to bang your head against it.
This is my first read from this author and it sure won’t be my last.
This is perfect if you crave shifter romance, snarky heroine, prophecies , found family, and reluctant fated mates… what more could you ask for in an amazing story?
Cade and Rowan is facing allot of obstacles both together and seperate, and I can’t wait to see what will happens next.
And just let me tell you about Rowan’s granny, she is fire, hillerious and simply just amazing!!
For me this was the perfect balance of angst,laughter and allot of magic litterly so I highly recommend.
This was my first Heather Renee book, and I won’t lie I was drawn in by the stunning special edition I saw lol! I then jumped at the opportunity for an ALC and I am so happy I did!! This is book one of the Ashmark Trilogy and follows Rowan our FMC who is reluctantly lured back to her grandmothers Inn (somewhere her mother always warned she should never set foot).
I immediately liked Rowan just from her car journey there with her ferret sidekick Archie. She is a woman not afraid to speak her mind, has her own emotional baggage and insecurities but who steps up when its needed. What is meant to be a very short trip turns in to something she could never have seen coming and puts her front and center of a prophecy and danger she did not know existed.
Normally I would go straight to the MMC next but first we need to talk about Iris, Rowans……slightly off her rocker’s grandmother. What a brilliant character! There we so many moments in this book she had me cackling. I don’t want to spoil a thing, but she truly adds to this book in the best way! She’s also got one too many secrets rolling around up in her head which I can’t wait to have revealed and a lot of questionable advice LOL!
So, our MMC, Cade, is an alpha wolf shifter who has lost a lot and has left his previous life behind. He is the perfect combo of death stare, possessive, caring and ‘I will keep you safe even if you hate me by the end of this’! Him and his wolf are a great duo, I loved learning about his past and both of their thoughts on this entire situation (as well as different ways of wanting to handle it).
Expect lots of tension between the couple in this first book and a slow burn that I can just feel is going to pay off hugely in the rest of the series. We also have a strong found family, high stakes, twists and fun. The book does end of a cliffhanger but book two is not too long of a wait and coming in a few months!!!! If you love a paranormal romance this is one to pick up!
The audio was narrated by Scott Rose and Olivia King who did an amazing job and really complemented each other in bringing the characters and story to life. I was completely immersed in the audiobook.
A huge thank you to Heather Renee for the ALC which releases on 26th March 2026.
Fates and Curses by Heather Renee is the kind of fantasy romance that immediately pulls you into its world and refuses to let go. With wolf-shifters, magic, fate, and chaos woven throughout the story, this book sets up what promises to be an unforgettable start to the Ashmark Trilogy.
The story blends paranormal romance with high-stakes fantasy, bringing together themes of destiny, prophecy, and the weight of supernatural curses. I really enjoyed the found family dynamic, which added so much warmth and depth to the characters and their relationships. The humor sprinkled throughout the story balanced the darker, more intense moments perfectly.
One of my favorite aspects was the slow-burn romance. The tension builds gradually, making every interaction feel meaningful and leaving you wanting more with each chapter. If you enjoy fated mates, emotional stakes, and characters who feel like they could become your new obsession, this book will absolutely deliver.
And I have to say… the ferret completely stole the show for me. Somehow this tiny, chaotic little character became my absolute favorite. Every scene with him added so much personality and humor to the story, and honestly I would read an entire spin-off just about him.
The world-building lays a strong foundation for what’s to come in the series, and by the end I was already desperate to see where the story goes next.
If you love wolf-shifters, magical curses, fated mates, found family, and a fantasy world filled with danger, humor, and heart, Fates and Curses is definitely one to add to your TBR.
I cannot wait to see what happens next in the Ashmark Trilogy.
Fates and Curses was an incredible read. I really miss reading urban fantasy, and this book just reminded me why I loved the genre so much. MFC Rowan gets thrown headfirst into a supernatural mess that's been thirty years in the making. There's a magical house, a talking familiar, found family, fated mates, and a prophecy that makes supernaturals want to shoot first and ask questions later. It was a lot for someone new to the supernatural world, but I think Rowan handled things fairly well.
I enjoyed the romance. He's a grump, and she's full of fire; the tension between them was so good. This is a slow burn. Rowan is reluctant because of the situation, but Cade isn't giving up that easily. He works for it, which made me like him even more. The side characters were a hoot, especially Iris, Rowan's grandmother. She was nuttier than a fruitcake and most definitely hiding something. Between her sayings and sass, she was very entertaining.
This book had some fantastic world-building. There was a variety of supernaturals, multiple packs, messy politics, and cool magic. The house alone pulled me in. Who wouldn't want a magic house that anticipates your needs? There's a type of supernatural that I've never come across before. Hollowborns. The whole concept of a supernatural safehouse run by something that didn't fit the definition of human or supernatural was interesting. The story went by too fast; I wasn't ready for it to be over, especially after the cliffhanger that left me screaming. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. Fates and Curses is perfect for anyone who likes a little humor mixed in with their urban fantasy read.
Wow did this book have me hooked! That cliffhanger I’m sorry but I need more!
Rowan and Cade where do I start with them.
Rowan gets thrown into the world of supernaturals after her mother dies. She isn’t afraid to speak her mind and won’t let anyone stop her. She really did well for someone whose world got completely upended.
Cade just wants to eliminate the hybrid but what happens when his whole world is turned upside down. I loved the banter between him and his wolf. He is just as you would expect an alpha male brooding, possessive, but also caring. He will do anything to protect her because she is now his world.
Iris is an interesting character. She is Rowan’s grandmother but I feel there is a lot more we have yet to learn about this woman. She is a hoot of a character even if there are times I agreed with Cade and wanted to strangle her.
Liz a character created in memory of author Elizabeth Briggs. I found that so sweet and I really liked the character. I feel like there is more we haven’t yet learned about her too.
I loved Archie but who wouldn’t love a ferret. I might be bias because my best friend has a ferret but who cares. He’s been Rowan’s companion for years but he’s hiding his own secrets.
There are so many questions left unanswered. This book was also a slow burn leaving you wanting more.
Overall I really liked this book and can’t wait to find out what happens next! I read this book as an arc.
3.5 I’m always a sucker for a good wolf-shifter story, and Fates and Curses was a fun ride that scratched that itch. It leaned a little more YA, but the humour, characters, and supernatural chaos made it an entertaining read.
The story follows Rowan, who arrives at her estranged grandmother’s inn just to find a little closure, only for everything to spiral into supernatural madness. After being unexpectedly turned into a wolf shifter, Rowan discovers she’s tangled in a prophecy that could change the supernatural world!! And tied to Cade Westin, a powerful alpha who insists fate has bound them together.
The dynamic between Rowan and Cade was easily my favourite part of the book. Cade carries that grumpy strong, protective alpha energy, while Rowan’s independence and sharp wit balance him perfectly. Their banter and chemistry felt infuriating (in a good way) natural and fun to read.
I also loved the found family vibes throughout the story. The side characters and the chaotic supernatural world around Rowan gave me all the feels and the sass in this book is fantastic! Rowan’s commentary and reactions had me giggling.
The ending though!! Definitely left me with questions, like what... who... I have my theories!! And now I’m sitting here wanting to know what happens with the prophecy, Rowan’s powers, and Cade’s role in everything. I have so many questions!
Overall, this was a fun paranormal read with great character dynamics, humour, and plenty of wolf-shifter energy.
Whoa! What was that ending! Yeah I need book 2 asap!
Fates & Curses is a great paranormal story, I wouldn’t say romance just yet though that is definitely coming. Rowan has been shielded from the paranormal world her entire life and is thrust into it at lightning speed. The emotions that brings are so accurate to what I would expect. I loved the her absolutely hilarious snarky, sassy, messy attitude and emotions. She was hilarious and felt real. Her ferret familiar, also fantastic. MMC, Cade, brooding, possessive, just how I like my alpha males! I also really enjoyed Rowan's eccentric grandmother who at times really struck a nerve and her new vampire friend who did not hold back and would tell Rowan how it is, in a gentle way.
Then the prophecy is there, hanging over the story, waiting. When the finale hits, you’re ready for it but it does NOT end how you expect!
I listened to the audiobook and have to say that Olivia King was the PERFECT voice actor for Rowan. Captured her personality and emotions spectacularly. Then Scott Rose as Cade was a great blend with Olivia. They made a wonderful pair. I also appreciated how this was a duet narration which truly brought the story to life.
Thank you so much to the author, Heather Renee, for the early copy. All opinions are my own!
I absolutely adore this book. I read it in one sitting. Oh, I laughed, and swooned so much while listening to this book. I love Rowan, and the relationship she has with Archie, which happens to be her pet ferret. After months of trying to close on her mother’s estate, Rowan must travel to her grandmother’s inn, NightShade. Shortly after arriving we meet the eccentric grandmother, and Rowan’s life as she knew it is forever changed. Rowan discovers she’s a wolf shifter, has a mate, and there’s a deadly prophecy following her around like a dark cloud. Sounds crazy, right? Cade the MMC, is Rowan’s mate. He’s fierce and protective of Rowan while also making sure she can defend herself. I love the found family that this book has. I want my own Liz, Archie, and Cade. All of the characters are all unique and memorable. The supernatural world is up in arms. Can Iris, and Cade keep Rowan safe while she discovers this new world that has been thrust upon her? Can Rowan discover her powers and the dangers lurking within her before it’s too late? The narrators, Scott Rose, and Olivia King did an amazing job portraying their characters. I absolutely loved the tones and inflections used for the characters. I was able to quickly distinguish which character was speaking early on. Olivia nailed Rowan's snarky attitude.
This is perfect for lovers of shifter romance, cozy vibes with high stakes, snarky heroine, prophecy, found family, and reluctant fated mates.
A very special thanks to the author for the gifted finished copy and ALC.
Favorite Quotes: Cursed and burdened? That’s cute. “Team RoCa forever.” Prophecies and death threats be damned. Gods help me, she’s never looked more tantalizing—or more mine.
Absolutely loved this book, the stunning 💜 cover, book overview and the uniqueness it was looking to bring was what drew me right in!
Like who wouldn’t want a pet ferret that all the sudden became the size of a Great Dane and could also talk with you! Like um yes sign me up!
The characters were fun, different, crazy and it was then a mismatched found family type group.
This was an engaging story, with the mfc Rowan being thrown into a world she’s never known about, with supernatural creatures, then she’s told she’s cursed, is part wolf, has powers and a mate, like wow talk about thrown in the deepened.
The mmc Cade is a wolf, always thought he’d bring an end to the one who was prophesied to end their supernatural world, but then is wham her mate and now hellbent on protecting her from everyone. Very ya slow burn so far 😉
This has great banter, laugh out loud moments and so much to come. The best part is it’s a book 1 of a trilogy but all books are coming out this year so regardless of the cliffhanger we won’t have to wait long to see what happens.
Definitely one for fantasy supernatural lovers, I very much recommend it. Now to wait for book 2. 💜
first of all I want to say that I received this novel as an advanced reader copy from the author and these are my true and honest opinions of the book.
This is a paranormal wolf shifter romance. In it you have whole plethora of paranormal beings including wolf shifters vampires supernatural guardians and an adorable magical ferret who can grow to the size of a great Dane.
The story was snarky, funny, and real.. She finds herself at her grandmother‘s house which just happens to be a Haven for the supernaturals. A safe house. She is part of the line of supernatural guardians and this is her heritage unbeknownst to her. She does not want this, but she cannot deny the massive powerful hot wolf that comes and tries to kill her. The second he sees her he realizes she is his mate which she is not happy with. Her grandmother is odd -delightfully so-in an aged hippie chick style, also at the safe house is a vampire there who was a friend of her late mothers and of course her pet ferret. The same pet ferret who she has had since a child. The same geriatric ferret who she keeps talking about was so old but come to find out he’s actually a supernatural being sent to protect her. And he can grow to the size of a great Dane. The thoughts that go through this girl’s head is hilarious. The banter is amazing.
The story is funny yet touching as she finds out her father was a wolf shifter and she is considered a hybrid which was prophesied about many years before. She has to learn to accept her new reality, her new life and learn and deal with the powerful prophecy concerning her. Not to mention her super hot faded mate wolf who she is undeniably drawn to and who is trying to help her understand her wolf nature and praying her for the fight to come. There is a cliffhanger at the end has made literally dying for a book 2. This book was a lot of fun to read!
I absolutely loved this book! It follows Rowan, who’s summoned to Nightshade Manor to visit her eccentric estranged grandmother in hopes of getting closure and finally moving on with her life. What she didn’t expect was to meet a smoking-hot, grumpy alpha MMC 😮💨🔥 who immediately calls her his mate, discover that her pet ferret is actually her fiercely loyal bodyguard, uncover that she’s part of a prophecy that could destroy the supernatural world, and learn that she might not be as human as she thought…
This is the first book in a trilogy, with the second instalment Ashes and Voes set to release in September. And honestly, this story took me on such an emotional rollercoaster from the slow-burn romance that had me on the edge of my seat ❤️🔥 to the witty banter that made me laugh out loud, to the heart-warming found family moments that gave me all the feels 🥹
If you’re a fan of… 🌙 grumpy / snarky MMC ✨ enemies to lovers & fated mates 🌙 strong, sassy FMC ✨ protective alpha male 🌙 found family ✨ trauma bonding 🌙 wolf shifters ✨ supernatural politics
…then I would highly recommend adding this to your TBR!
A magical manor. A kooky grandmother. A hidden world. A geriatric pet. And that’s just the beginning of the chaos in this absolutely addictive and wildly entertaining new series by Heather Renee.
Fates and Curses is a MUST READ. Like… clear-a-spot-on-your-shelf-immediately level must read. And can we talk about how stunning these editions are? Paperback or hardcover, you genuinely cannot go wrong.
Think Red Riding Hood begrudgingly visiting Grandma… except this Big Bad Wolf isn’t just lurking—he’s determined to destroy her.
When an explosion shatters Rowan’s world and everything she thought she knew, she’s thrown into a spiral of danger, destiny, and twists I did NOT see coming. There’s a new bestie, emotional whiplash (in the best way), and a matriarch who steals every single scene she’s in.
I laughed. I gasped. I clutched the book like it personally betrayed me. THAT ENDING!!!
This is the perfect mix of paranormal romance, heart, humor, and full-blown “just one more chapter” syndrome. Trust me—you will not be putting it down.
Girl, what?!?! What is up with that cliffhanger??? I give you some leeway because you are an awesome author whom I love, and sure, you don't write the spicy stuff, but that's ok I give you grace because you are one of my favs. But I may have to rethink this if you are going to do this to me! That cliffie was something else!! I really loved this book, the humor and sarcastic wit in this was on point the whole time! I loved Archie, he was one of my favorite characters ever. Cole was hot, broody and a teddy bear deep (deeeeeeep) down. Even Iris, who got on my nerves, was comedic gold! The plot was somewhat confusing for me, but that is probably a me problem. The prophesy was a good premise, but I still don't understand why everyone is up in arms about it. Surly there is more than one hybrid amongst them? Why is everyone so upset that she is one? I'm sure it will be explained more fully in the next book. All in all, I give this a 4.25 stars, mostly for Archie, whom I adore. I took off points for that cliffhanger, really? That sucked. :)
An urban fantasy that has a kooky grandma and talking familiar 😆😍
A talking familiar named Archie, need I say more?! Yes? Well let me tell you, I needed this book in my life and I didn’t even know it. It had me laughing and then on the edge of my seat all in the same chapter. The banter is top notch and the world building is amazing. The inner voice of our main female character, Rowan was one of my favorite parts. And can I say that I want a magical fanny pack too?! iykyk 😆😅🤣 And the main male character, Cade, swoon! 😍❤️🔥 I definitely found my next book boyfriend for sure. Full honesty, that ending had me stressed but now I can't wait for book 2. I have a feeling Archie is going to kick things up a notch lol Heather has books two and three completed so you know you'll be getting the rest of the series soon!
So, book besties, let's review. 😘 If you crave fated mates, shifter romance, prophecies that refuse to be ignored, and a sprinkle of kooky found family chaos… Then you don’t want to miss Fates and Curses by Heather Renee.
The narrators, Scott Rose and Olivia King, were good at narrating this fabulous story. I loved every bit of this fast-paced story that brought something new to the fantasy world. Oooo La-la, I’m excited to see what comes next. I think the trilogy has a lot to offer, and the base set for it in this book is pretty interesting. The turn of events, where it started with a blast, had me all like WHAT?? Tell me more about it.
Heather Renee’s writing always sucks me in and I devour them in one go. So far, there are so many books that I’ve read from her, and they have me going for them all in just one take. That exhilarating feeling that I get is very positive. It is a must try fantasy where we have vampires, wolves, and other supernatural creatures, and a girl who doesn’t know what she is. And to make it more intriguing we have a Prophecy in works. Now you can imagine what is in store. Go for it without any doubt.
I absolutely enjoyed this book. I can't wait to read more in the series.
I have to admit though, my heart gave a little squeeze when I realized that Heather Renee had honored Elizabeth Briggs in this story. I found myself smiling whenever "Liz" was involved and I feel that Heather struck gold in how Liz was braided into the storyline.
As with any world building, first book in a series, I found myself to be an impatient reader when it came to explanations and detail sharing but as the story moved along, I became deeply invested and delightfully immersed in the story. Magic, fated-mates, an intuitive hotel and all kinds of quirky and delightful characters are my kind of story. Add in an evil sub-plot, and dark characters who make 'Mean Girls' look cute and fluffy and you have my full attention. Oh! Don't forget the Ferret familiar!
I loved reading this book. It is fantastic. We are getting into the story of Rowan and her little ferret friend Archie. Things are not as they seem as Archie can shift into this huge Great Dane sized ferret. Oh and he talks. She meets her grandmother who seems to have a couple cans short of a six pack. Funny as heck. She says some of the most off the wall things. Rowan is a hybrid. She is in danger because of a prophesy. On top of everything else going on in her life she meets her Mate Cade who is a broody alpha who was supposed to take over as Alpha Supreme, but he left his pack. They are now trying to train her and get her ready to protect herself all while learning how to be a wolf and come into her powers. This is part of a series and ends on a slight cliffhanger. I can’t wait for book 2 :)
Fates and Curses by Heather Renee was such a fun and chaotic start to the Ashmark Trilogy. What begins as a simple visit to an estranged grandmother quickly spirals into wolf shifter drama, prophecy, and a whole lot of supernatural trouble. I loved the mix of humor and high stakes fantasy, especially the snarky heroine, the grumpy alpha mate Cade, and the found family dynamic that gave the story so much heart. The banter and tension between the characters kept things engaging throughout. And honestly… the ferret completely stole the show for me. Every scene with him added a dose of chaos and humor that made the story even more entertaining. If you enjoy wolf shifters, fated mates, found family, and magical mayhem, this is a really enjoyable start to the series and I can’t wait for the next instalment.
If there is one way to describe my feelings for this book, let’s just say… I’m so glad I preordered on the kickstarter!
This was so good, I was completely sucked in. The FMC thought she was human and didn’t know anything about supernaturals, until she finds out otherwise. You watch her take everything on with a strength that most wouldn’t have. She finds support and love with her new family unit and refuses to give up. The MMC thought his job was to unalive her, until he finds out just how much she will mean to him.
You see the strength from all characters, how to learn to rely on others, the bond of fated mates, and don’t forget the banter that banterssss!
There is a cliffhanger, and let me tell you… I need the next one ASAP! Another wolf shifter series to add to my favorites and we’re not even done yet!
Thank you Heather Renee for the early copy - all opinions are my own!
This was such a fun fast paced wolf shifter romance. I found the world really interesting and I am really excited to learn more. I loved that our MFC, Rowan is in her older 20s. She’s feisty, headstrong and I love her little sidekick, Archie. Rowan goes from living a normal life to being thrown into a prophecy only to be protected by the possessive alpha wolf shifter, Cade. I loved the slow burn tension between these two. And I can’t wait to see where things go. Definitely team Roca. I do think her grandmother is hiding more secrets from her. And I’m really curious about Liz. I love the bond that’s forming between her and Rowan. The end of the book leaves you on a cliffhanger hanger which is making me think!! Who was that at the end? I’m very excited for book 2!
I have laughed my butt off reading this book. The quirky characters are a breath of fresh air. Rowan, Cade, Iris, Liz, and Archie have captured my heart, especially Archie in all his glorious cuteness. The tension between Rowan and Cade is fantastic, and now I may die before Claws and Bonds releases in June.
You will find a grumpy alpha wolf shifter (Cade), a talking ferret (Archie), an eccentric grandma (Iris), a bad*** vampire (Liz), and a strong/snarky wolf shifter female that may end the supernatural world (Rowan)....what more could you want?
If you haven't grabbed your copy yet, you should grab it immediately. You will not be disappointed.
I loved it! The art inside the paperback is perfect for the scenes. Some of them are hilarious (looking at you polka dotted mumu.) Rowan takes everything in stride. She has minor freak outs and disbelief when she finds out about the supernatural world but she's definitely up to the challenge. I loved how Cade was all bossy alpha at times but one glare from her had him tucking his tail. The secondary characters are also easy to love and full of their quirks. I need an Archie sidekick! I highly recommend this series for fans of shifter romances!
I received an ARC from the author through her Kickstarter campaign. Fates and Curses is a fast paced fated mates story in which the FMC, Rowan, is lured home to meet her quirky grandmother who lives in a supernatural mansion. She finds out she is a prophecy foretold that may end all supernatural creatures. She meets Cade, who tells her she is his mate and she struggles to make sense of this new world. The action is quick and the characters are terrific, especially her ferret familiar, Archie. The story ends with you wanting to know what happens next. I am looking forward to the next book.
This was such a fun and easy read!! Rowan’s inner monologue was hilarious and Iris had me cackling. The writing here is witty and entertaining, delivering a fast paced paranormal romance with a world building that’s straightforward. And we have Archie our talking ferret animal familiar who gives the best advice. Cade acts all tough but really he’s a cinnamon roll who’s trying his best after finding out the target of his ire is actually his mate. Thanks so much to the author for the review copy! Can’t wait for the sequel.
We have Rowan, who is finding out that her whole life has been a lie. She is finding out that is not just any supernatural person, but that she is powerful. How powerful is she we don't know yet! We are finding out each day that she is getting stronger every day and trying to control her power within herself. We have Cade, which is her mate. Well, she is learning what that means and is taking it slow with him. Then we have the council that wants she x or to control her because of a prophecy that doesn't paint her the good guy. Can't wait for book 2.
Rowan thought she was human, turns out she was a hidden prophecy. She’s thrown into a supernatural world with vampires and shifters. Her support system includes her estranged grandma and fated mate. Granny is hilarious and big into fashion. Rowan’s mate is a lone alpha with some violent tendencies. Jury’s still out on both of them.
Overall a great series starter. There’s mystery, a talking animal, and the perfect balance of angst and humor.
I absolutely loved every minute of this book. Well maybe not that cliffhanger. But you get the gist. There was chaos and commotion, magic and mayhem, witty banter and a talking ferret. There was the slowest burn and fated mates.
Heather wrote another amazing book that will keep you entranced from the first to last page. It will leave you craving for more and I cannot wait for that second book.
I enjoyed this magic-infused, fated mates wolf shifter romance featuring a quirky grandma with a unique vocabulary (I might start using some of her phrases myself...lol).
Cade and Rowan face one obstacle after another, both separately and together, but they have a strong set of supporters to help them through it all. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Rowan was raised by her mother in the human world knowing nothing of her supernatural parentage until after her mother dies. Then her life is flipped outside down! Wacky grandma, talking animals, sentient house and more supernatural beings that her head is spinning. Danger is around every corner…who can she trust? The tension is building…and sparks start to fly. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Lots of laughs, many moments on the edge of my seat and it ends on a cliffhanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.