What do you think?
Rate this book
The Scarred Omega & the Urban Alpha: A Friends-to-Lovers Werewolf Shifter Romance
SHE’S AN OMEGA WHO SWORE OFF WOLVES.
HE’S AN ALPHA WHO’S BEGGING FOR A CHANCE.Scarred by the horrifying relationships she witnessed growing up, ARELA WATERHOUSE has only one caveat when it comes to no wolves, especially not alphas.
But when the moon goddess bonds her to the powerful and persuasive alpha who only has eyes for her even before they are bonded, her walls and beliefs are put to the test.
Will she stay away from the world she fled, or will this bond show her another side of the world she thought she knew?
***
ALPHA ZEPHYRUS ACKERMAN has never wanted for anything until he meets an omega who’s as mesmerizing as she is mysterious.
He couldn’t be more grateful to Goddess for bonding them, but his mate seems hesitant to give their bond a chance, and circumstances grow dire when external forces are determined to tear them apart.
Will he convince her his love is true, or will the risks that come with his status push away the only woman he has ever given his heart to?
[This book contains mature themes. Reader discretion is advised.]
Perfect for fans
fated mateshe falls first and harderfriends to loverstouch her and you’ll d!3found family
HE’S AN ALPHA WHO’S BEGGING FOR A CHANCE.Scarred by the horrifying relationships she witnessed growing up, ARELA WATERHOUSE has only one caveat when it comes to no wolves, especially not alphas.
But when the moon goddess bonds her to the powerful and persuasive alpha who only has eyes for her even before they are bonded, her walls and beliefs are put to the test.
Will she stay away from the world she fled, or will this bond show her another side of the world she thought she knew?
***
ALPHA ZEPHYRUS ACKERMAN has never wanted for anything until he meets an omega who’s as mesmerizing as she is mysterious.
He couldn’t be more grateful to Goddess for bonding them, but his mate seems hesitant to give their bond a chance, and circumstances grow dire when external forces are determined to tear them apart.
Will he convince her his love is true, or will the risks that come with his status push away the only woman he has ever given his heart to?
[This book contains mature themes. Reader discretion is advised.]
Perfect for fans
fated mateshe falls first and harderfriends to loverstouch her and you’ll d!3found family
463 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2026
About the author
Stina's Pen
12 books178 followersWhen Stina is not writing, she can be found reading anything that piques her interest, accidentally buying books on accidental visits to bookstores despite the shelves of unread novels at home. Always a daydreamer, she often fantasizes about what could unravel if something that didn’t happen happened. She is also prone to buying stickers and washi tapes (by complete accident) and then wondering what to do with them.
With a goal of inspiring others and hoping they draw strength from her characters, she wishes to write in a way that makes everyone’s days a little brighter, that allows them to appreciate who they are and fall in love with the magic they add into the world.
With a goal of inspiring others and hoping they draw strength from her characters, she wishes to write in a way that makes everyone’s days a little brighter, that allows them to appreciate who they are and fall in love with the magic they add into the world.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 8, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
(booksirens)
The following was written as I was reading as I devoured the book in one day and didn’t want to forget my favorite parts.
From the beginning of the story you can feel the tension between the protagonists. Arella out FL doesn't idolize the mate bond which I found very intriguing, she is strong throughout the entire book but soft when needed. Loved her relationship with her sister.
In the book there is so much family drama, one feels as a gossiper in a family reunion which I really liked. Also I like that even if there are other things happening this family drama doesn’t get forgotten.
Our main leads relationship is lovely although it can be a little cheesy, but I didn’t find it tedious (which surprised me) maybe I liked them a lot.
What else? …
Hear me out with Phinix please 🤭🤭🤭
What I didn’t like? There is a point where there’s is just too much happening, and in this case I believe one or two books more could’ve been a good idea… though I suppose I could have just taken a break.
All in all I got into the story from page one. The couple is solid and a good read! Liked a lot the magic aspect too.
(booksirens)
The following was written as I was reading as I devoured the book in one day and didn’t want to forget my favorite parts.
From the beginning of the story you can feel the tension between the protagonists. Arella out FL doesn't idolize the mate bond which I found very intriguing, she is strong throughout the entire book but soft when needed. Loved her relationship with her sister.
In the book there is so much family drama, one feels as a gossiper in a family reunion which I really liked. Also I like that even if there are other things happening this family drama doesn’t get forgotten.
Our main leads relationship is lovely although it can be a little cheesy, but I didn’t find it tedious (which surprised me) maybe I liked them a lot.
What else? …
Hear me out with Phinix please 🤭🤭🤭
What I didn’t like? There is a point where there’s is just too much happening, and in this case I believe one or two books more could’ve been a good idea… though I suppose I could have just taken a break.
All in all I got into the story from page one. The couple is solid and a good read! Liked a lot the magic aspect too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I genuinely enjoyed this story! It was an incredibly easy read with perfectly paced tension. The two alphas fell fast and hard and honestly, the chemistry was so strong that I found myself wanting more from the love triangle dynamic.
There were also some genuinely funny moments scattered throughout, especially when it came to the flirting and the outright obviousness of his obsession to their friends. Which even now has me smiling remembering it.
A standout element for me was the inclusion of her natural cycles, weird I know but it’s rare to see those physical realities being acknowledged and it added a refreshing layer of realism.
At its core, this is a beautiful love story anchored by an incredibly strong and resilient FMC. The way the characters described one another and drew strength from their bond was beautifully written and had me placing my hand over my heart more than once.
That said, it wasn't without a few flaws. Some of the dialogue felt a little cringey at times and the story dragged in a few places, making the book feel slightly too long. I also found myself wanting to see a bit more from the wolves.
Since this is a standalone, I was a bit disappointed that it left a few unanswered questions. Without giving any spoilers, certain family dynamics were left hanging, and a key antagonist's storyline felt rushed at the end. It seemed like some conflicts were resolved a bit too quickly without delivering the satisfying closure or consequences I was hoping for.
Despite those minor gripes, this was an emotional and highly enjoyable read. If you're looking for a beautiful love story with a bit of spice and a good mystery plot, this is a fantastic pick!
Tropes: He Falls First | Fated Mates | Slow Burn
There were also some genuinely funny moments scattered throughout, especially when it came to the flirting and the outright obviousness of his obsession to their friends. Which even now has me smiling remembering it.
A standout element for me was the inclusion of her natural cycles, weird I know but it’s rare to see those physical realities being acknowledged and it added a refreshing layer of realism.
At its core, this is a beautiful love story anchored by an incredibly strong and resilient FMC. The way the characters described one another and drew strength from their bond was beautifully written and had me placing my hand over my heart more than once.
That said, it wasn't without a few flaws. Some of the dialogue felt a little cringey at times and the story dragged in a few places, making the book feel slightly too long. I also found myself wanting to see a bit more from the wolves.
Since this is a standalone, I was a bit disappointed that it left a few unanswered questions. Without giving any spoilers, certain family dynamics were left hanging, and a key antagonist's storyline felt rushed at the end. It seemed like some conflicts were resolved a bit too quickly without delivering the satisfying closure or consequences I was hoping for.
Despite those minor gripes, this was an emotional and highly enjoyable read. If you're looking for a beautiful love story with a bit of spice and a good mystery plot, this is a fantastic pick!
Tropes: He Falls First | Fated Mates | Slow Burn
June 8, 2026
I have really enjoyed this book. The obstacles Arela and Zeph had overcome were done together. Their chemistry is undeniable even when Arela tried to ignore it. I loved how Zeph never gave up on her and tried every day to show her how much he wanted her affection. Two different people that came from different backgrounds that found each other because of their careers.
Zeph is an alpha and has been looking for his Luna for years. When he meets Arela, he knows that she was made just for him. He tries to date her and asks for coffee, but she always turns him down. That didn't stop him from asking again and again just to show her how different he is from other alphas.
Arela grew up in a pack where omegas were beneath everyone and only used as servants. She refused to be that way and left home when she went to college to study law. She never wanted an alpha as a mate but the Goddess had other plans. In comes Zeph, an alpha from another pack. She tires everything to resist him but the pull is there and she finally gives him a chance. He is not like other alphas which makes Arela look at her own pack with disgust. The closer she gets to Zeph, the more she notices what a true alpha should be and realizes that he is right for her.
Plans happen to tear them apart but no matter what happens, they fight it together.
I have received a copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Zeph is an alpha and has been looking for his Luna for years. When he meets Arela, he knows that she was made just for him. He tries to date her and asks for coffee, but she always turns him down. That didn't stop him from asking again and again just to show her how different he is from other alphas.
Arela grew up in a pack where omegas were beneath everyone and only used as servants. She refused to be that way and left home when she went to college to study law. She never wanted an alpha as a mate but the Goddess had other plans. In comes Zeph, an alpha from another pack. She tires everything to resist him but the pull is there and she finally gives him a chance. He is not like other alphas which makes Arela look at her own pack with disgust. The closer she gets to Zeph, the more she notices what a true alpha should be and realizes that he is right for her.
Plans happen to tear them apart but no matter what happens, they fight it together.
I have received a copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an absorbing and emotionally resonant read from beginning to end. Stina’s Pen delivers a compelling paranormal romance with strong character development, rich tension, and a central bond that feels both fated and hard-won. Arela’s guarded perspective is handled with care, while Zephyrus brings warmth, patience, and undeniable presence to the story.
What stood out most to me was the balance between vulnerability and strength. The emotional stakes feel genuine, the world-building supports the romance without overwhelming it, and the push-and-pull between trust and destiny keeps the pages turning. The author does an excellent job of building anticipation while still giving readers meaningful character moments throughout.
Overall, The Scarred Omega and the Urban Alpha is a captivating, well-written romance that will appeal to readers who enjoy heartfelt character arcs, magnetic chemistry, and a story with both tenderness and momentum. If you’re looking for a book that blends emotional depth with an engaging supernatural backdrop, this one is well worth picking up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What stood out most to me was the balance between vulnerability and strength. The emotional stakes feel genuine, the world-building supports the romance without overwhelming it, and the push-and-pull between trust and destiny keeps the pages turning. The author does an excellent job of building anticipation while still giving readers meaningful character moments throughout.
Overall, The Scarred Omega and the Urban Alpha is a captivating, well-written romance that will appeal to readers who enjoy heartfelt character arcs, magnetic chemistry, and a story with both tenderness and momentum. If you’re looking for a book that blends emotional depth with an engaging supernatural backdrop, this one is well worth picking up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book reignited my love for worlds filled with magic, werewolves, and, most importantly, raw and authentic expressions of love and respect. The main characters are distinct and compelling, each with unique personalities that add depth to the story. The plot is rich with detail and layered elements that had me so invested I found myself researching unfamiliar terms just to fully immerse in the experience. Additionally, the emotional depth of each character reflects real-life experiences in a meaningful way. As the first publication by Stina’s Pen, this book sets a strong foundation for what promises to be an impressive journey in storytelling. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2026
I'd enjoyed reading this story that's about Arela Waterhouse our omega werewolf lawyer and Zephyrus (Zeph) Ackerman our alpha werewolf lawyer. They meet when both are representing their clients in a dispute case over landowner rights vs squatter rights. Both their wolves want each other, but Arela has seen how alphas treat omegas in her pack and resists the pull, but can Zeph prove he's different than what she's knows. I'd liked our characters in this engaging story. I'd liked how this was a different take on a normal omega submissive/alpha dominant romance story I've read. Zeph was a patient and lovable character as Arela notices as she bonds with Zeph, but other factors try to tear them apart in this engaging story I'd received a copy and volunteer to read and review.
June 13, 2026
A Solid Werewolf Romance, but Not Quite for Me
This was a nicely written werewolf romance with a slower-paced relationship development that I generally enjoyed. The story flows well, and the romance is easy to follow.
My main issue was the dynamic between the main characters. The relationship leaned heavily toward traditional gender roles, with the heroine often going along with the hero's decisions, which wasn't entirely my cup of tea. Readers who enjoy that type of romance may appreciate it more than I did.
Overall, it's a pleasant read and a solid romance, even if the character dynamic didn't fully work for me.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a nicely written werewolf romance with a slower-paced relationship development that I generally enjoyed. The story flows well, and the romance is easy to follow.
My main issue was the dynamic between the main characters. The relationship leaned heavily toward traditional gender roles, with the heroine often going along with the hero's decisions, which wasn't entirely my cup of tea. Readers who enjoy that type of romance may appreciate it more than I did.
Overall, it's a pleasant read and a solid romance, even if the character dynamic didn't fully work for me.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2026
Arela Waterhouse was intense. It didn't make her arrogant or annoying or difficult to like; it made me curious to understand why. It made me appreciate Zeph's consistence and presence outside of their work. Her aversion to Alphas was rooted in her past and the hold was so strong I did wonder if Zeph would eventually give up. He didn't and every brick he demolished in her high walls made the anticipation of their HEA that much sweeter. There were set backs, people and situations they had to face but each one only deepened their like to love.
Stina's Pen is a new to me author and I'm glad this was my intro book to them. The writing drew me in and made this an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Stina's Pen is a new to me author and I'm glad this was my intro book to them. The writing drew me in and made this an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Just WOW! I'm a fan, without a doubt. Genuinely hoping Stina chooses to turn this into a series like Coalescence of the five.
I love how her female characters are strong yet vulnerable in their own ways and find their balance. I also love that the male characters are portrayed as decent, going against stereotypes. I finished the book within 24 hrs, couldn't put it down, read every spare moment I had and now have reader's headache cos I kept forgetting to wear my glasses 🙃. Please Stina, for the sake of your fans and furthering the supporting characters, don't leave this as a standalone!
Just WOW! I'm a fan, without a doubt. Genuinely hoping Stina chooses to turn this into a series like Coalescence of the five.
I love how her female characters are strong yet vulnerable in their own ways and find their balance. I also love that the male characters are portrayed as decent, going against stereotypes. I finished the book within 24 hrs, couldn't put it down, read every spare moment I had and now have reader's headache cos I kept forgetting to wear my glasses 🙃. Please Stina, for the sake of your fans and furthering the supporting characters, don't leave this as a standalone!
Review of advance copy
Stina's Pen has done it again. The book was so captivating that I couldn't put it down! Throughout the story my heart felt full one moment then raced with anxiety the next. The romance is adorable and had me giggling out loud in some moments. I appreciated that the woman lead was strong and independent and didn't sacrifice her values or personality. Themes of setting boundaries in different kinds of relationships and realizing that you can be a whole person while single makes the romance more heart touching. I highly recommend and hope it can become a series like the Coalescence of Five!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2026
She doesn’t need an alpha!
She is one of the best omega wolf lawyers. Arela has worked too hard getting and maintaining her law degree too let any alpha get in her way. Zeph has been trying to get Arela to have coffee with him. He finally gets his chance. Once he starts his courtship, there’s no stopping him. There is a second wolf that wants her and he doesn’t mind fighting dirty. Arela dislikes him just for general purposes. He’s rich, doesn’t know when to stop and he thinks he has it all that is except Arela. And Phinix wants her. The war of words, jesters, lying, cheating and love starts. This is a dark sweet romance and I enjoyed reading it.
She is one of the best omega wolf lawyers. Arela has worked too hard getting and maintaining her law degree too let any alpha get in her way. Zeph has been trying to get Arela to have coffee with him. He finally gets his chance. Once he starts his courtship, there’s no stopping him. There is a second wolf that wants her and he doesn’t mind fighting dirty. Arela dislikes him just for general purposes. He’s rich, doesn’t know when to stop and he thinks he has it all that is except Arela. And Phinix wants her. The war of words, jesters, lying, cheating and love starts. This is a dark sweet romance and I enjoyed reading it.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Eh. This felt like it was trying too hard to be something that it wasn't. Is it great? No. Was it good? Sure. Confusing and overwhelming at times for the genre it's written in as it isn't a high fantasy romance. I would get bored and put it down then pick it up and try again. Took me much longer to get through this and really - it should have been broken down into at least 2 books. In my VERY personal opinion 600+ pages is way too many for a paranormal romance. And I say that as someone who can read 300-400 pages in about 6 hours. This took me over a week to finish.
June 7, 2026
Badass FMC of the story but we also got to get the backgrounds of all the other characters. There was just the right amount of cheesiness to keep me laughing. Immediately fell in love with the MMC. Add in some delusional men, meddling mother in laws, entitled parents, bratty girls and some spice and you know it’s gonna be a juicy story. Also really enjoyed the politics/law side of the story. Overall this was a great read despite not being my typical pick. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I received a free copy of this book from Hiddenjemsbooks to give an honest review. I really liked the characters and their love story. Also, the way the characters interacted with one another was very entertaining and enjoyable. It was great having all the different points of view. However, I was about seventy percent in, when the story itself was becoming entertaining. The beginning of the book had a lot of information that I didn't feel was needed, which made it harder to read.
June 6, 2026
ARC REVIEW
I genuinely loved this book. It was emotional, funny when it needed be, and might i say cute too.
I’m so in love with Alpha Zephyrus. Such a gentlemen. Everybody deserves a Zeph for themselves. He is strong, protective,possessive, but extremely sweet as well. Do guys like Zeph even exist?
Arela the fmc is such a badass. I liked how her character was fierce, strong, caring, passionate, calm and calculative. The way she handled the society, her pack and anybody who threw insults and accusations. If i could have even 1% of the calm and composure.
This story has an amazing plot. It had me in screaming and at the seat edge most of the time.
Thank you author Stina’s Pen and book sirens for giving me this opportunity.
I genuinely loved this book. It was emotional, funny when it needed be, and might i say cute too.
I’m so in love with Alpha Zephyrus. Such a gentlemen. Everybody deserves a Zeph for themselves. He is strong, protective,possessive, but extremely sweet as well. Do guys like Zeph even exist?
Arela the fmc is such a badass. I liked how her character was fierce, strong, caring, passionate, calm and calculative. The way she handled the society, her pack and anybody who threw insults and accusations. If i could have even 1% of the calm and composure.
This story has an amazing plot. It had me in screaming and at the seat edge most of the time.
Thank you author Stina’s Pen and book sirens for giving me this opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It isn't often that you find an author who blows you away, so it's awesome when you do. Brilliant writing that keeps you engaged and wanting more and more and more. Absolutely loved it! Must read! I am now going to find every single book this author ever wrote. I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm not regretting picking up this book. I've always been interested in how persistence unfolds in a relationship, and I love how this one does. It's beautiful, adorable, and the great part is there is no feeling of embarrassment that tags along. I love the plot too with the whole mystery, magical ideas, and twists. I'm in awe 😍
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story kept pulling me forward. It is definitely a little bit different take than other shapeshifter wolves' stories. Glad I read it. It was intriguing, caught and maintained my interest all the way through.
I received an advance review copy for free and i leave this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and i leave this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2026
Followed a scarred omega who witnessed the cruel relationships she saw meant she had rules about dating wolves, even alphas. I waited and watched as he showed her how life could be like with him. You could feel her emotions as you read what she saw as you will want to keep her protected from all harm. A great read
I received an advance copy from from hidden gems and a compelling read
I received an advance copy from from hidden gems and a compelling read
June 9, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.I absolutely love this book! I'm always looking for a good wolf shifter book but most fall flat. I loved all the supporting characters almost as much as the main couple. I even enjoyed phinx the alpha villain. I'm hoping Emily and ledger get their own story. Well rounded great well written story
June 9, 2026
The Scarred Omega and the Urban Alpha is well written and entertaining. I love how patient and caring Zeph was towards Arela, validating her trauma and fears and allowing her to trust at her own pace. The growth of their love and relationship was realistic and, at times, heart wrenching! Stina's Pen once again knocked it out of the park! A must read!!
June 10, 2026
I enjoyed that Arella didn't think the mate bond was everything as that is an interesting take, her alpha Zeph fell fast and hard and oh the tension yes please. His determination to get her to go out with him to give him a chance, i particularly loved. She has high walls due to her pack and her family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved the story! Great for anyone that loves a man who yearns and strong female character. Love the main couple and their romantic plot. But would have loved to see more of the side characters' romantic plots! I felt the politics subplot was a bit much and difficult to keep track of.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was very excited to be able to read this book before its release as I love every single book Stina ever wrote, and I am pleased to say I loved every second of it.
I was very excited to be able to read this book before its release as I love every single book Stina ever wrote, and I am pleased to say I loved every second of it.
June 10, 2026
Amazing romance read. Likeable characters. Entertaining storyline. Chemistry was sizzling hot. Pulled me in in the first chapter and kept my attention to the end. Banter was great. Well written book that definitely recommend.
Read
May 21, 2026DNF at 26%. CONSTANTLY changing POV, sometimes in the same paragraph. Got confusing.
August 2, 2026
Me encantó, me encantó y me encantó. 💖
May 5, 2026
This book had a lot going on. Like… a lot.
I liked the main dynamic between Arela and Zephyrus. I appreciated that she wasn’t immediately into him and actually had solid reasons for staying away from wolves. That part felt real, and I liked that she held onto that for a while instead of just giving in.
That said, I think the story tried to do too much at once. There are so many POVs, subplots, politics, lore, and different character arcs that it started to feel overwhelming. Instead of adding depth, it sometimes made the story feel scattered. There’s honestly enough here for multiple books, and I think that would’ve worked better.
The romance is a slow burn, which I usually enjoy, but the conflict between them started to feel repetitive. It kept circling the same issues, and by the end I was a bit tired of it. There were moments where things got really interesting, but they didn’t always fully land before the story shifted again.
I didn’t hate it, and I do think it has a lot of potential. The world and ideas are interesting, I just wish it had been more focused and a bit shorter. The ending was satisfying, but getting there felt longer than it needed to be.
Rating: 3.5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the main dynamic between Arela and Zephyrus. I appreciated that she wasn’t immediately into him and actually had solid reasons for staying away from wolves. That part felt real, and I liked that she held onto that for a while instead of just giving in.
That said, I think the story tried to do too much at once. There are so many POVs, subplots, politics, lore, and different character arcs that it started to feel overwhelming. Instead of adding depth, it sometimes made the story feel scattered. There’s honestly enough here for multiple books, and I think that would’ve worked better.
The romance is a slow burn, which I usually enjoy, but the conflict between them started to feel repetitive. It kept circling the same issues, and by the end I was a bit tired of it. There were moments where things got really interesting, but they didn’t always fully land before the story shifted again.
I didn’t hate it, and I do think it has a lot of potential. The world and ideas are interesting, I just wish it had been more focused and a bit shorter. The ending was satisfying, but getting there felt longer than it needed to be.
Rating: 3.5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arela and Zephyrus are the match made to perfection! I loved following their story of fate.
The plot is full with politics, drama, growth and betrayal.
I always love a neatly tied HEA and loved before it was over, everything was neatly tied together, wrapped it all up and made it feel whole.
Thank you Stina's Pen, for an advanced copy through Book Siren!
The plot is full with politics, drama, growth and betrayal.
I always love a neatly tied HEA and loved before it was over, everything was neatly tied together, wrapped it all up and made it feel whole.
Thank you Stina's Pen, for an advanced copy through Book Siren!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews