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Bonds and Beasts
*See all of the Once Upon a Knot Collection HERE.*
From Amazon Bestselling Author Veronica Samek comes a gothic retelling of a beast and her alpha beauties.
The Silver Pack are Hollywood’s most famous movie star pack.
Bello—famous for his portrayal of Dracula.
Easton—the nerdy sidekick in every film they’ve made together.
Dean—the smooth superhero type.
They’ve come to Rosehaven, an adorable small town on the shores of Lake Michigan, to shoot their highly anticipated new release. But they’re left without a place to stay when the only hotel in town loses their reservations.
Their agent contacts the manager of a historic estate and rents the place for the remainder of the Pack’s stay. There is one condition. The three alphas aren’t allowed into the west wing. What no one tells them is that it isn’t empty. Rumors travel through Rosehaven about a beast that lives within the manor’s walls. What lurks there is poised to change their lives forever.
Secluded from the rest of the town, the manor’s heiress, Adison, is kept from interacting with anyone because of her dangerously overactive scent. Her own body has made her a prisoner in the west wing of her home.
The alphas ignore the warnings and explore the west wing. Instead of finding a beast, they find their mate.
Follow the Sterling Pack and Adison as they navigate candlelit corridors, angry villagers, and rough lake waters to ensure she never has to be alone again.
Bonds and Beasts is part of the Once Upon a Knot series, a multi-author fairy tale omegaverse series.
From Amazon Bestselling Author Veronica Samek comes a gothic retelling of a beast and her alpha beauties.
The Silver Pack are Hollywood’s most famous movie star pack.
Bello—famous for his portrayal of Dracula.
Easton—the nerdy sidekick in every film they’ve made together.
Dean—the smooth superhero type.
They’ve come to Rosehaven, an adorable small town on the shores of Lake Michigan, to shoot their highly anticipated new release. But they’re left without a place to stay when the only hotel in town loses their reservations.
Their agent contacts the manager of a historic estate and rents the place for the remainder of the Pack’s stay. There is one condition. The three alphas aren’t allowed into the west wing. What no one tells them is that it isn’t empty. Rumors travel through Rosehaven about a beast that lives within the manor’s walls. What lurks there is poised to change their lives forever.
Secluded from the rest of the town, the manor’s heiress, Adison, is kept from interacting with anyone because of her dangerously overactive scent. Her own body has made her a prisoner in the west wing of her home.
The alphas ignore the warnings and explore the west wing. Instead of finding a beast, they find their mate.
Follow the Sterling Pack and Adison as they navigate candlelit corridors, angry villagers, and rough lake waters to ensure she never has to be alone again.
Bonds and Beasts is part of the Once Upon a Knot series, a multi-author fairy tale omegaverse series.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2026
About the author
Veronica Samek
13 books257 followersVeronica Samek enters the literary world with her debut novel Alternates. Having spent much of her childhood life between stacks of books at her parents’ second-hand bookstore, she discovered a love for all things reading at an early age which has translated to a love of writing as an adult.
She lives in Michigan with her husband, three small children, and a golden doodle named Doctor (Who).
She lives in Michigan with her husband, three small children, and a golden doodle named Doctor (Who).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
September 9, 2026
Devoured. Absolutely devoured this book tonight. I was fortunate enough to get an ARC of “Bonds and Beasts” by @veronicasamekauthor … and yes, 1000 times yes. How could you say no to a Beauty and the Beast retelling in a small-town omegaverse with lots of spice? It’s like a dream. Add on top of that a really engaging FMC, three MMCs that play so well off of each other, AND those Beauty & the Beast vibes and I was one happy reader. Now, if you are looking for a closed door omegaverse (although I don’t know why), this is not the book for you. If you are looking for spice that is prolific but not tedious (we all know some books where we just get to the point where we were hoping for a closed door scene just to move the plot along), this is a great choice. Now I want to read all of the books in the Once Upon a Knot series. #arc #bondsandbeasts #onceuponaknot
October 2, 2026
Thank you to Veronica for the early copy of this book
I usually love every book the author writes, but this book was just meh for me. I did not feel the chemistry between the FMC and the MMC's nor the pack bond between the MMC's either. The book felt rushed in some places, and like some stuff was just added into the book without much build up or explanation.
I usually love every book the author writes, but this book was just meh for me. I did not feel the chemistry between the FMC and the MMC's nor the pack bond between the MMC's either. The book felt rushed in some places, and like some stuff was just added into the book without much build up or explanation.
October 1, 2026
I loved the concept of this book, but omg it's like we're speedrunning the whole thing. There isnt really time to get to know the characters, any conflicts ir problems are resolved IMMEDIATELY. I'm honestly not sure what the point of reading this even is. Anyways, DNF at 60% because I was trying to force myself to finish it and found that I REALLY didn't want to.
October 23, 2026
I absolutely love beauty and the beast retelling it always been one of my favorites.
Dean,Bello, and Easton are such amazing alphas, especially dean something about him who has me in love i love them all .
Adison has been through so much, and Mr. Clock was the cause of it. I can't stand him at all, especially for his greed. I love that she is fierce and kind and doesn't think other people will be like mr clocks she doesnt hold it against others she loves her community.
When she is in heat, omg that those scenes are so good her omega is just as fierce and amazing she knows what she wants
Dean,Bello, and Easton are such amazing alphas, especially dean something about him who has me in love i love them all .
Adison has been through so much, and Mr. Clock was the cause of it. I can't stand him at all, especially for his greed. I love that she is fierce and kind and doesn't think other people will be like mr clocks she doesnt hold it against others she loves her community.
When she is in heat, omg that those scenes are so good her omega is just as fierce and amazing she knows what she wants
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2026
i know what type of book this is but it should have at LEAST a decent plot flow
September 28, 2026
From the start you're drawn in. The chapters are short in the beginning, almost embodying the way the mind flips from page to page in a fever dream, and building a sense of something; not impending doom because for all that it’s gothic it’s not that gothic, but the pacing is pristine. They don't stay that way throughout the whole book though
Even once I was through into the middle of this complimentary arc I Could. Not. Put. It. Down. Laptop to phone and back again, had to keep reading, I wish like stars that I could adequately express how driven I felt to keep going. In fact, the only negative to this entire book is the fact that the chapters weren’t numbered so if I had to switch to reading on my phone it got hard to find my spot. (and since this was an arc it's possible the published book won't be that way.)
Your heart will break for Adison and the alpha who went into rut, but the ‘he must hate me/she must hate me’ resolves in perfect time. I had a really big question throughout the book that I thought was either just the way it needed to happen for them to meet or something else that I couldn’t figure out how it would have occurred… but friends, that is why I am the reader and not the writer. Chef’s kiss.
This omegaverse fairy tale retelling is 5 stars and five chili peppers. The only way this could be any spicier would be if it were all spice and no plot. Instead, the spice in this character driven tale as old as time serves the narrative.
C’est tres magnifique.
This review was not required but I am delighted to share it with OV fans and friends.
Even once I was through into the middle of this complimentary arc I Could. Not. Put. It. Down. Laptop to phone and back again, had to keep reading, I wish like stars that I could adequately express how driven I felt to keep going. In fact, the only negative to this entire book is the fact that the chapters weren’t numbered so if I had to switch to reading on my phone it got hard to find my spot. (and since this was an arc it's possible the published book won't be that way.)
Your heart will break for Adison and the alpha who went into rut, but the ‘he must hate me/she must hate me’ resolves in perfect time. I had a really big question throughout the book that I thought was either just the way it needed to happen for them to meet or something else that I couldn’t figure out how it would have occurred… but friends, that is why I am the reader and not the writer. Chef’s kiss.
This omegaverse fairy tale retelling is 5 stars and five chili peppers. The only way this could be any spicier would be if it were all spice and no plot. Instead, the spice in this character driven tale as old as time serves the narrative.
C’est tres magnifique.
This review was not required but I am delighted to share it with OV fans and friends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can already tell this is going to be my new favorite omegaverse series!
Bonds & Beasts is a Beauty and the Beast inspired omegaverse following Adison and her mates Bello, Dean, and Easton.
My heart broke for everything Adison goes through and the trauma she has to heal from after her pack finds her and claims her. I also loved seeing her find her own agency, as well as what it’s like to be in a safe and loving relationship with her pack. That safety gives her that freedom to truly express herself and her likes/dislikes, and I loved seeing her find her voice again, both literally and metaphorically.
Bello, Dean, and Easton would do absolutely anything for Adison. I loved how protective and sweet they are with her as they help her heal in multiple ways. They take the time to really get to know her, and everything about her just makes them fall harder and harder for her. Her safety and her happiness is everything to them, and they refuse to settle for anything less for her. They’re all so loving and it’s so easy to fall for them.
I absolutely LOVED this romance, and I’m begging you to pick this up on release day, September 29th!
*As with any book, this does contain some subject matter that may be triggering to some, so please do check the TW’s*
Be sure to grab your own copy or grab on KU THIS TUESDAY!
Thank you so much to @veronicasamekauthor for my arc and for having me on your arc team❤️
Bonds & Beasts is a Beauty and the Beast inspired omegaverse following Adison and her mates Bello, Dean, and Easton.
My heart broke for everything Adison goes through and the trauma she has to heal from after her pack finds her and claims her. I also loved seeing her find her own agency, as well as what it’s like to be in a safe and loving relationship with her pack. That safety gives her that freedom to truly express herself and her likes/dislikes, and I loved seeing her find her voice again, both literally and metaphorically.
Bello, Dean, and Easton would do absolutely anything for Adison. I loved how protective and sweet they are with her as they help her heal in multiple ways. They take the time to really get to know her, and everything about her just makes them fall harder and harder for her. Her safety and her happiness is everything to them, and they refuse to settle for anything less for her. They’re all so loving and it’s so easy to fall for them.
I absolutely LOVED this romance, and I’m begging you to pick this up on release day, September 29th!
*As with any book, this does contain some subject matter that may be triggering to some, so please do check the TW’s*
Be sure to grab your own copy or grab on KU THIS TUESDAY!
Thank you so much to @veronicasamekauthor for my arc and for having me on your arc team❤️
October 12, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bonds and Beasts is part of the Once Upon a Knot collection, a multi-author series of modern-day omegaverse fairy tale retellings.
I really enjoyed this take on Beauty and the Beast! The story felt fresh, and I was intrigued from the very first chapter. It was a lovely combination of mystery, a dark gothic atmosphere, and that signature omegaverse sweetness that makes everything feel soft and fuzzy by the end.
The pacing was pretty fast, and while we don't get extensive backstories for the characters, I never felt like they were flat or underdeveloped. On the contrary, the multiple POVs and frequent shifts in perspective gave each character a chance to shine and feel present in the story.
As is often the case with omegaverse stories, this one is pretty high-heat, with a lot of emphasis on scents, heats, and bonding. Things move quickly, and the romance doesn't have a ton of time to develop, yet I never doubted how right these characters were for each other or how deeply everyone was invested in the relationship.
Overall, this was a sweet and enjoyable story, with a couple of twists to keep things interesting, some pretty hot spice to heat things up, and a lovely HEA to wrap everything up with love.
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bonds and Beasts is part of the Once Upon a Knot collection, a multi-author series of modern-day omegaverse fairy tale retellings.
I really enjoyed this take on Beauty and the Beast! The story felt fresh, and I was intrigued from the very first chapter. It was a lovely combination of mystery, a dark gothic atmosphere, and that signature omegaverse sweetness that makes everything feel soft and fuzzy by the end.
The pacing was pretty fast, and while we don't get extensive backstories for the characters, I never felt like they were flat or underdeveloped. On the contrary, the multiple POVs and frequent shifts in perspective gave each character a chance to shine and feel present in the story.
As is often the case with omegaverse stories, this one is pretty high-heat, with a lot of emphasis on scents, heats, and bonding. Things move quickly, and the romance doesn't have a ton of time to develop, yet I never doubted how right these characters were for each other or how deeply everyone was invested in the relationship.
Overall, this was a sweet and enjoyable story, with a couple of twists to keep things interesting, some pretty hot spice to heat things up, and a lovely HEA to wrap everything up with love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If Beauty and the Beast, omegaverse romance, and three dangerously addictive MMCs had a love child, it would be this book.
The small-town setting, engaging FMC, and dynamic between the three MMCs made this such a fun read. I loved how well their personalities played off each other, and Bello completely surprised me. He may have started out making a terrible first impression, but watching him become so much more for her was one of my favorite parts.
The plot kept me hooked from beginning to end. It moved quickly without feeling rushed, and there was always enough happening to keep me turning the pages. And the spice? There is plenty of it, but it never overwhelmed the story.
If you want a closed-door omegaverse, this probably is not your book. But if you are looking for Beauty and the Beast vibes, an entertaining plot, a fantastic three-MMC dynamic, and plenty of heat, add this one to your list.
The small-town setting, engaging FMC, and dynamic between the three MMCs made this such a fun read. I loved how well their personalities played off each other, and Bello completely surprised me. He may have started out making a terrible first impression, but watching him become so much more for her was one of my favorite parts.
The plot kept me hooked from beginning to end. It moved quickly without feeling rushed, and there was always enough happening to keep me turning the pages. And the spice? There is plenty of it, but it never overwhelmed the story.
If you want a closed-door omegaverse, this probably is not your book. But if you are looking for Beauty and the Beast vibes, an entertaining plot, a fantastic three-MMC dynamic, and plenty of heat, add this one to your list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reverse Beauty & the Beast
This story came out swinging. You have your set up of the big house you're told you can go everywhere except one place. The guys think they are alone but dreams and phantom whimpers draw them to the forbidden door.
I love that the rose in this one is the "beasts" scent. It's overwhelming and tinged with so many wrong notes except the one saying mate. Unfortunately some of that wrongness also forces one of the men into rut.
My heart absolutely broke for this sweet girl. The condition she was living in was awful. She thought it was all she deserved until some Alpha's proved sh wasn't as cursed as she thought she was.
Watching these guys come together was so beautiful. These guys were so sweet, tender, gentle and patient. Gaining trust and figuring out what had happened up to this point was quite the adventure mixed with intense sadness. You never know when someone you trust doesn't actually deserve that honor.
The sever touch starvation was interesting to read. I've read some but nothing quite like this. I loved it combined with her scent issues. It made for a unique story that worked well with the Beauty and the Beast story.
This story came out swinging. You have your set up of the big house you're told you can go everywhere except one place. The guys think they are alone but dreams and phantom whimpers draw them to the forbidden door.
I love that the rose in this one is the "beasts" scent. It's overwhelming and tinged with so many wrong notes except the one saying mate. Unfortunately some of that wrongness also forces one of the men into rut.
My heart absolutely broke for this sweet girl. The condition she was living in was awful. She thought it was all she deserved until some Alpha's proved sh wasn't as cursed as she thought she was.
Watching these guys come together was so beautiful. These guys were so sweet, tender, gentle and patient. Gaining trust and figuring out what had happened up to this point was quite the adventure mixed with intense sadness. You never know when someone you trust doesn't actually deserve that honor.
The sever touch starvation was interesting to read. I've read some but nothing quite like this. I loved it combined with her scent issues. It made for a unique story that worked well with the Beauty and the Beast story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
arc review
Such a fun and fast paced omegaverse read! The story features pretty much all the tropes I could wish for spooky season (see below) plus even more like a spooky haunted manor setting and a mystery/conspiracy subplot. I've loved other books by Veronica Samek so my expectations for this one were quite high! And it didn't disappoint! We've got three famous movie star alphas and one touch starved omega who's dealing with her own trauma. They each have their own unique way of helping her overcome her struggles which made the story so wholesome.
tropes:
- omegaverse
- heats, knots, scent matches
- beauty and the beast retelling
- touch deprivation
- alpha in rut
- beastly touch starved omega
- forced proximity
- spice!!!
Such a fun and fast paced omegaverse read! The story features pretty much all the tropes I could wish for spooky season (see below) plus even more like a spooky haunted manor setting and a mystery/conspiracy subplot. I've loved other books by Veronica Samek so my expectations for this one were quite high! And it didn't disappoint! We've got three famous movie star alphas and one touch starved omega who's dealing with her own trauma. They each have their own unique way of helping her overcome her struggles which made the story so wholesome.
tropes:
- omegaverse
- heats, knots, scent matches
- beauty and the beast retelling
- touch deprivation
- alpha in rut
- beastly touch starved omega
- forced proximity
- spice!!!
October 12, 2026
going to start off that, i was really excited of a beauty and beast retelling, but omegaverse. unfortunately, i was let down.
the main character, adison, has been hidden away in her manor. she has not come in contact with another human begin. so her being able to sudden speak the next day made no sense to me. i would like to say that there was representation for muteness, but there was none. like i mentioned adison was cured literally the next day. i would have enjoyed if it was flushed out more.
also i was not getting the beauty and beast vibes, won't recommend 1.5 star
the main character, adison, has been hidden away in her manor. she has not come in contact with another human begin. so her being able to sudden speak the next day made no sense to me. i would like to say that there was representation for muteness, but there was none. like i mentioned adison was cured literally the next day. i would have enjoyed if it was flushed out more.
also i was not getting the beauty and beast vibes, won't recommend 1.5 star
September 17, 2026
I loved this book so much. It was so much fun!
One: I loved ANYTHING with Beauty and the Beast vibes.
Two: the Roles were SWITCHED
Three: WHY CHOOSE
Four: OMEGAVERSE!
All of these are my main reason for loving this book so much!
Like I really don't know how this could go wrong. And it didn't. I absolutely devoured this book! Everything about it worked for me. From the story line to the MMCs to the flow of the book, everything.
I felt like the characters were believable and that they all worked really well together. I am always a fan of omegaverse and this one kept me reading until I finished.
I do have to say that if there are any triggers that you should make sure you read the list at the beginning of the book before you read.
Thank you Veronica Samek and her team for allowing me to read this arc, all thoughts and opinion are my own.
One: I loved ANYTHING with Beauty and the Beast vibes.
Two: the Roles were SWITCHED
Three: WHY CHOOSE
Four: OMEGAVERSE!
All of these are my main reason for loving this book so much!
Like I really don't know how this could go wrong. And it didn't. I absolutely devoured this book! Everything about it worked for me. From the story line to the MMCs to the flow of the book, everything.
I felt like the characters were believable and that they all worked really well together. I am always a fan of omegaverse and this one kept me reading until I finished.
I do have to say that if there are any triggers that you should make sure you read the list at the beginning of the book before you read.
Thank you Veronica Samek and her team for allowing me to read this arc, all thoughts and opinion are my own.
October 6, 2026
On one hand this was fine, average, but that makes this rather disappointing since I had more hope for this author's writing as well as the story it is a retelling of. On the other hand, I wasn't really a fan of the main characters. She was fine. But the guys were very bland, surface level deep. And quite frankly they could have been interchangeable for all they stood out. And the fact that the villain was so obvious and yet the trio just had no clue who it could be was aggravating. I did like that the beast was the omega in this retelling. It made things so more interesting. And I found it cute that Mrs Potts and little Chip were so the the cook and little colt.
Read
August 26, 2026🟢 This is a reverse harem 🟢
October 5, 2026
I hate to say it, but this book was just not written very well and poorly executed. I’ve read others in this series and I felt like the author rushed this one, which is a shame because there definitely is potential.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ate this book up. This is a Beauty and the Beast Retelling from the Once Upon a Knot Series. You have three mmcs that become bery protective over their new found scent matched omega. Adison has been locked in the west wing of the Manor where her scent spreads and makes Bello go into a rut. She definitely deserved her HEA.. Highly recommend!
September 28, 2026
🌹Bonds and Beasts
🌟 5 stars
🌶️ 5 out of 5 hotness🥵🤭
❤️ First of all, thank you to Veronica for this e-ARC, it's not my first e-ARC from you and as expected, it is beautifully written.
🫶Review: This is not my first time reading Veronica's books and let's just she did not disappoint! Go queen!😌🤩 Her omegaverse books are short, just the right amount and have a good flow of tempo, just the right times for the highs and the downs. Addison, our sweet FMC, she's so strong for enduring everything, so trusting and it's not her fault. I'm very glad she has her happily ever after with her alphas. The alphas: Bello, Dean and Easton, they all love her in their own ways. This book is very unique and it's different from the usual beauty and the beast retelling stories, one of the obvious point would be the gender switch of the beast role while still incorporating the beauty part to the FMC. The side characters are interesting as well, the small town and how there are some parts of the original beauty and the beast characters and story plot in all four MCs, not just based by their roles of the beauty or the beast or by gender. I like this retelling part about it. I think the story plot is also very unique and interesting, parts that are purely from the author and not based on the original. It's different from the previous omegaverse books she's written, the Omega Book Club Series, it's a lot more darker since it is beauty and the beast, dark romance but I dare say she wrote it very well from her first series, soft and cozy to now this shared omegaverse world series, beautifully written dark romance omegaverse that is the right amount of dark, love and coziness. Lastly, the spice did not disappoint as well, it is still good. I can't wait for more omegaverse books from Veronica. Finished on 29 Sept 2026.
-Spoilers-
For readers who wants to know and don't mind the spoilers so you get to know more of the book before reading, I'll write down here.
The first part is Addison and Bello, oh my sweeties, one thought the other is angry at her cause she caused him to rut the first time they met, the other thinks that he scared her and my heart just ache for this misunderstanding but luckily they talked and open their hearts to each other.
The other part is Dean running away when they talked about their future and want to make a progress, at first I was like confused and outrage for my girl, Addison but when I learn his reason for leaving, I completely understand and I'm glad that he had his pack to support him.
🌟 5 stars
🌶️ 5 out of 5 hotness🥵🤭
❤️ First of all, thank you to Veronica for this e-ARC, it's not my first e-ARC from you and as expected, it is beautifully written.
🫶Review: This is not my first time reading Veronica's books and let's just she did not disappoint! Go queen!😌🤩 Her omegaverse books are short, just the right amount and have a good flow of tempo, just the right times for the highs and the downs. Addison, our sweet FMC, she's so strong for enduring everything, so trusting and it's not her fault. I'm very glad she has her happily ever after with her alphas. The alphas: Bello, Dean and Easton, they all love her in their own ways. This book is very unique and it's different from the usual beauty and the beast retelling stories, one of the obvious point would be the gender switch of the beast role while still incorporating the beauty part to the FMC. The side characters are interesting as well, the small town and how there are some parts of the original beauty and the beast characters and story plot in all four MCs, not just based by their roles of the beauty or the beast or by gender. I like this retelling part about it. I think the story plot is also very unique and interesting, parts that are purely from the author and not based on the original. It's different from the previous omegaverse books she's written, the Omega Book Club Series, it's a lot more darker since it is beauty and the beast, dark romance but I dare say she wrote it very well from her first series, soft and cozy to now this shared omegaverse world series, beautifully written dark romance omegaverse that is the right amount of dark, love and coziness. Lastly, the spice did not disappoint as well, it is still good. I can't wait for more omegaverse books from Veronica. Finished on 29 Sept 2026.
-Spoilers-
For readers who wants to know and don't mind the spoilers so you get to know more of the book before reading, I'll write down here.
The first part is Addison and Bello, oh my sweeties, one thought the other is angry at her cause she caused him to rut the first time they met, the other thinks that he scared her and my heart just ache for this misunderstanding but luckily they talked and open their hearts to each other.
The other part is Dean running away when they talked about their future and want to make a progress, at first I was like confused and outrage for my girl, Addison but when I learn his reason for leaving, I completely understand and I'm glad that he had his pack to support him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2026
I thought this book was a really great homage to a Beauty and the Beast retelling via omegaverse. I likes the spin where the "beastly" one was actually the omega- I haven't seen that too much.
There were some really great allusions to the various Beauty and the Beast retellings. I absolutely cracked up with the line about crazy Maury.
I also really liked who the ultimate villain is. Not gonna lie, I always secretly thought that character in the original Disney film had more to him than met the eye. While it wasn't really a huge surprise when the villains are revealed, I still think it was done well. I had a feeling that the pack's manager was going to be involved, but I wasn't quite sure how until it was finally disclosed (there were just too many "coincidences" that made me super suspicious of her). I am so glad that the villains were actually caught and faced punishment- and not necessarily a light one.
Also, Mrs. Potts and her grandson were absolutely adorable. I LOVED this side character and I feel like she was really well written. She had the perfect grandmotherly tone to her.
All the MMCs were absolute sweethearts. I loved how realistic Bello's internal struggle/debate was, and it was refreshing having a character acknowledge that they messed up. I wish he would have gotten his head sorted a little sooner so Adison didn't have to suffer so much with the perceived rejection of her.
Dean was both an adorable golden retriever and a heartbreaker. The reveal on why he was on the blockers was well executed. I really liked that emotional journey.
Easton was a good middle ground between the two extremes of Bello and Dean as well.
Adison had my heart- especially with the element of medical misconduct, which is an issue near and dear to my heart. I feel like her struggles were well written; her near catatonia, depth of fear, and eventually recovery were well done. I was really rooting for her happy ending, and I am so glad she got it.
At the end of the day, I feel like this book did what it set out to do. It told a pretty good retelling of the Beauty and the Beast story within an omegaverse (spice included), and is a book I would happily read again.
There were some really great allusions to the various Beauty and the Beast retellings. I absolutely cracked up with the line about crazy Maury.
I also really liked who the ultimate villain is. Not gonna lie, I always secretly thought that character in the original Disney film had more to him than met the eye. While it wasn't really a huge surprise when the villains are revealed, I still think it was done well. I had a feeling that the pack's manager was going to be involved, but I wasn't quite sure how until it was finally disclosed (there were just too many "coincidences" that made me super suspicious of her). I am so glad that the villains were actually caught and faced punishment- and not necessarily a light one.
Also, Mrs. Potts and her grandson were absolutely adorable. I LOVED this side character and I feel like she was really well written. She had the perfect grandmotherly tone to her.
All the MMCs were absolute sweethearts. I loved how realistic Bello's internal struggle/debate was, and it was refreshing having a character acknowledge that they messed up. I wish he would have gotten his head sorted a little sooner so Adison didn't have to suffer so much with the perceived rejection of her.
Dean was both an adorable golden retriever and a heartbreaker. The reveal on why he was on the blockers was well executed. I really liked that emotional journey.
Easton was a good middle ground between the two extremes of Bello and Dean as well.
Adison had my heart- especially with the element of medical misconduct, which is an issue near and dear to my heart. I feel like her struggles were well written; her near catatonia, depth of fear, and eventually recovery were well done. I was really rooting for her happy ending, and I am so glad she got it.
At the end of the day, I feel like this book did what it set out to do. It told a pretty good retelling of the Beauty and the Beast story within an omegaverse (spice included), and is a book I would happily read again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2026
One of the best Beauty and the Beast retellings I've ever read. I'm new to Veronica Samek; her genderbent omegaverse take on this tale was outstanding and highly creative. Beauty is the pack name for three movie-star alphas. They were down-to-earth guys. Meanwhile, the Beast is actually a feral omega named Adison. She turns out to be really sweet. My heart really broke for her, but in the end she's still standing. The guys had to put a little extra effort in because of Adison's condition. They proved how much they care with every word, touch, and action, which made the romance that much more special.
I loved all the nods to the OG Beauty and the Beast. I smiled every time I spotted something. Now putting that aside, the plot was classic but had Veronica's unique spins. I mean, the MFC is nonverbal. Sure, readers get her inner thoughts, but she doesn’t talk to the alphas at all. Communication was a guessing game for a while. Then add in the scent matches and health and mental issues, along with the fairytale stuff, and you get a one-of-a-kind story. I loved the Gothic touches and small-town vibes, especially the lore. What the frack!? So I figured out most of the plot pretty early, then near the end there was a twist that left me flabbergasted. I have to give it to Veronica; it was a good one and made the story even better.
What a ride. The characters were great. The plot was great. And I had a fantastic time reading Bonds and Beasts. Veronica Samek has a new fan on her hands.
I loved all the nods to the OG Beauty and the Beast. I smiled every time I spotted something. Now putting that aside, the plot was classic but had Veronica's unique spins. I mean, the MFC is nonverbal. Sure, readers get her inner thoughts, but she doesn’t talk to the alphas at all. Communication was a guessing game for a while. Then add in the scent matches and health and mental issues, along with the fairytale stuff, and you get a one-of-a-kind story. I loved the Gothic touches and small-town vibes, especially the lore. What the frack!? So I figured out most of the plot pretty early, then near the end there was a twist that left me flabbergasted. I have to give it to Veronica; it was a good one and made the story even better.
What a ride. The characters were great. The plot was great. And I had a fantastic time reading Bonds and Beasts. Veronica Samek has a new fan on her hands.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an omegaverse reimagining of Beauty and the Beast. It is part of the multi-author standalone series Once Upon a Knot (Fairy Tale Omegaverse).
Movie star alpha MMCs Bello, Dean, and Easton (aka the Beauty Pack) show up in Michigan to a reservation mix-up and end up renting a historic mansion with gothic vibes and a west wing they are instructed not to go in. The west wing of course holds FMC omega Adison, who has been locked away for her “protection.”
I really liked this book. The MMCs were all unique but likable, and the FMC was easy to root for and see why they would be instantly smitten. I liked that there was time spent establishing each of the unique relationships and some of the dynamics within the pack, as well as the overall plot. I thought Samek did a great job of making a gender-swapped Beauty and the Beast-ish story without making it too over-the-top with cliché tropes. There were several darker elements while still being sweet and, of course, steamy.
Overall, a really fun standalone. I haven’t read any of the other installments in the Once Upon a Knot series, but there are several that I am interested in checking out.
Spice 4.5/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
*** I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Movie star alpha MMCs Bello, Dean, and Easton (aka the Beauty Pack) show up in Michigan to a reservation mix-up and end up renting a historic mansion with gothic vibes and a west wing they are instructed not to go in. The west wing of course holds FMC omega Adison, who has been locked away for her “protection.”
I really liked this book. The MMCs were all unique but likable, and the FMC was easy to root for and see why they would be instantly smitten. I liked that there was time spent establishing each of the unique relationships and some of the dynamics within the pack, as well as the overall plot. I thought Samek did a great job of making a gender-swapped Beauty and the Beast-ish story without making it too over-the-top with cliché tropes. There were several darker elements while still being sweet and, of course, steamy.
Overall, a really fun standalone. I haven’t read any of the other installments in the Once Upon a Knot series, but there are several that I am interested in checking out.
Spice 4.5/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
*** I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beauty Found Her Happily Ever After… Times Three
I thoroughly enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast omegaverse retelling!
Adison, an omega, is essentially confined to a wing of a manor for nearly a year, leading to significant health issues. Contrary to the belief that meeting your pack should be a pivotal moment, Adison experiences fear and shame instead.
The Beauty Pack comprises three movie-star alphas, and I absolutely adored each of them! Bello, the pack leader, relishes playing darker roles. Dean, the rugged action hero, exudes kindness and sweetness from their initial meeting. Then there’s Easton, the lovable, nerdy guy who intuitively understands what his omega needs and how to care for her.
These men gradually help Adison realize her worth, love, and the absence of any shame. They protect, love, and demonstrate daily that she belongs to them.
I am utterly captivated by this pack! I relished watching Adison discover her strength and comprehend the true essence of love and care from her mates.
I eagerly anticipate what other enchanting tales this fairytale series has in store for me and eagerly await the author’s next creation!
I thoroughly enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast omegaverse retelling!
Adison, an omega, is essentially confined to a wing of a manor for nearly a year, leading to significant health issues. Contrary to the belief that meeting your pack should be a pivotal moment, Adison experiences fear and shame instead.
The Beauty Pack comprises three movie-star alphas, and I absolutely adored each of them! Bello, the pack leader, relishes playing darker roles. Dean, the rugged action hero, exudes kindness and sweetness from their initial meeting. Then there’s Easton, the lovable, nerdy guy who intuitively understands what his omega needs and how to care for her.
These men gradually help Adison realize her worth, love, and the absence of any shame. They protect, love, and demonstrate daily that she belongs to them.
I am utterly captivated by this pack! I relished watching Adison discover her strength and comprehend the true essence of love and care from her mates.
I eagerly anticipate what other enchanting tales this fairytale series has in store for me and eagerly await the author’s next creation!
October 1, 2026
What happens when the “beast” is actually the one being rescued?
A gothic manor, three famous alpha movie stars (The Beauty Pack), one omega hidden away, and a whole lot of secrets? Need I say more?!
This Beauty and the Beast-inspired retelling has a dark, gothic, spooky vibe, with a "Rose Red" kind of manor, creepy noises, and just enough mystery!
🥀 “The little beast loves the attention after so long without. First biting, now preening.”
I loved the switched roles, with Adison as the “Beast,” the dark gothic manor setting, and watching her slowly find her voice and freedom.
My heart broke for everything she had been through, and I loved seeing her begin to heal and discover what it feels like to be safe and truly cared for.
🥀 “I know this is the safest I've felt in a long time. It's crazy because he's a complete stranger. It's not crazy because he's my mate.”
Bello, Dean, and Easton each brought something different to the story, and the connection they built with Adison was exactly what they all needed. Add in the secrets, found family, and plenty of spice, and this was such a cozy, heartwarming, fast read!
💫 Bonds and Beasts (Once Upon a Knot series) by Veronica Samek
Cozy Omegaverse | Beauty and the Beast Inspired | Why Choose (MFMM) | Hurt/Comfort | Forced Proximity | Movie Star Alphas x Touch-Starved Omega | 210 pp | 4⭐
💫 Favorite Quote:
"Take my scent, Sweet Girl. Take whatever you need from me. I'm here. I have you."
A gothic manor, three famous alpha movie stars (The Beauty Pack), one omega hidden away, and a whole lot of secrets? Need I say more?!
This Beauty and the Beast-inspired retelling has a dark, gothic, spooky vibe, with a "Rose Red" kind of manor, creepy noises, and just enough mystery!
🥀 “The little beast loves the attention after so long without. First biting, now preening.”
I loved the switched roles, with Adison as the “Beast,” the dark gothic manor setting, and watching her slowly find her voice and freedom.
My heart broke for everything she had been through, and I loved seeing her begin to heal and discover what it feels like to be safe and truly cared for.
🥀 “I know this is the safest I've felt in a long time. It's crazy because he's a complete stranger. It's not crazy because he's my mate.”
Bello, Dean, and Easton each brought something different to the story, and the connection they built with Adison was exactly what they all needed. Add in the secrets, found family, and plenty of spice, and this was such a cozy, heartwarming, fast read!
💫 Bonds and Beasts (Once Upon a Knot series) by Veronica Samek
Cozy Omegaverse | Beauty and the Beast Inspired | Why Choose (MFMM) | Hurt/Comfort | Forced Proximity | Movie Star Alphas x Touch-Starved Omega | 210 pp | 4⭐
💫 Favorite Quote:
"Take my scent, Sweet Girl. Take whatever you need from me. I'm here. I have you."
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoy reading omegaverse and retellings. This story was having the omega fmc be seen as the beast. Adison is deeply touch starved and isolated. It was sorta difficult to understand how Noone picked up that she was in the house for nearly a year though. The three actors were different and very attentive her needs.
Adison is the omega who literally grows up knowing nothing besides that her parents are both alphas.... so they don't think she could designate as omega. She is very ill when she meets the alphas.
Dean is her safe haven right away .
Bello is the pack lead who is a total teddy bear in my opinion. Total dom 👀
Easton is the book loving one who is a care giver.
The villians in this story were easy to see coming and it wasn't dragged out too long for them to get what they deserve.
The ending I wished would have had something more it felt abrupt. There wasn't really much after bonding and it ends with a party. I thought the ending needed either more time in the future or maybe even talk of what they could plan for their lives.
Thank you for the ARC chance! ✨️
Adison is the omega who literally grows up knowing nothing besides that her parents are both alphas.... so they don't think she could designate as omega. She is very ill when she meets the alphas.
Dean is her safe haven right away .
Bello is the pack lead who is a total teddy bear in my opinion. Total dom 👀
Easton is the book loving one who is a care giver.
The villians in this story were easy to see coming and it wasn't dragged out too long for them to get what they deserve.
The ending I wished would have had something more it felt abrupt. There wasn't really much after bonding and it ends with a party. I thought the ending needed either more time in the future or maybe even talk of what they could plan for their lives.
Thank you for the ARC chance! ✨️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bonds and Beasts is a standalone omegaverse romance in the multi-author Once Upon a Knot collection. Each book in the shared world is a fairy tale retelling. I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Thank you to the author for my eARC.
What to expect:
✨Beauty and the Beast inspired
✨Why choose (mfmm)
✨Scent matches
✨Hurt/comfort
✨Movie star alphas
✨Cozy fall vibes
✨Touch-starved omega
✨Forced proximity
✨Protective alphas
✨Gothic manor with a west wing
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars 4/5 Flames
Nicknames: Sweet Girl, Sweetheart, Beauty
The Lovely: When I saw this was going to involve a touch-starved omega, I knew it was going to be my cup of rose tea. The caretaking was perfection, and there were enough things happening plot-wise that I couldn’t stop reading.
Recommendation: Delightful, absolutely delightful, and the perfect brand of cozy for the fall season. If you’re in the mood for a gender-bent Beauty and the Beast reimagining with all the spice and caretaking vibes, I think you might love this book.
What to expect:
✨Beauty and the Beast inspired
✨Why choose (mfmm)
✨Scent matches
✨Hurt/comfort
✨Movie star alphas
✨Cozy fall vibes
✨Touch-starved omega
✨Forced proximity
✨Protective alphas
✨Gothic manor with a west wing
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars 4/5 Flames
Nicknames: Sweet Girl, Sweetheart, Beauty
The Lovely: When I saw this was going to involve a touch-starved omega, I knew it was going to be my cup of rose tea. The caretaking was perfection, and there were enough things happening plot-wise that I couldn’t stop reading.
Recommendation: Delightful, absolutely delightful, and the perfect brand of cozy for the fall season. If you’re in the mood for a gender-bent Beauty and the Beast reimagining with all the spice and caretaking vibes, I think you might love this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bonds and Beasts is retelling of Beauty and the Beast, which is my all time favourite fairy tale and princess, so I was extremely excited for this one!
I absolutely loved that the roles were reversed from how a retelling normally goes, as with Veronica Samek's our Omega was the 'beast' and the Pack were the 'Beauty's'. This was such a clever way to showcase a story we know well whilst changing it up.
Adison, our Omega's story was heart-breaking, it made me feel so helpless. Being treated in such a way by people she thought she could trust, made the meeting between her and her Alphas all the more difficult and beautiful. Her pack had tunnel vision from the very first Scent and that fast paced Insta-love was in full affect.
Whilst there was tension throughout the Beauty Packs story, it was never between our main characters, they loved one another so wholly and came through so wonderfully on the other side!
I do wish there was a little more in the conflict scenes, maybe a bit more tension, not so fast to have been resolved, so we could really feel what our main characters were going through and making the solution even sweeter for us as the reader.
But all in all, this was a super sweet and cosy read that is perfect for the autumn vibes and spooky vibes I'm looking for right now! 🤎
I absolutely loved that the roles were reversed from how a retelling normally goes, as with Veronica Samek's our Omega was the 'beast' and the Pack were the 'Beauty's'. This was such a clever way to showcase a story we know well whilst changing it up.
Adison, our Omega's story was heart-breaking, it made me feel so helpless. Being treated in such a way by people she thought she could trust, made the meeting between her and her Alphas all the more difficult and beautiful. Her pack had tunnel vision from the very first Scent and that fast paced Insta-love was in full affect.
Whilst there was tension throughout the Beauty Packs story, it was never between our main characters, they loved one another so wholly and came through so wonderfully on the other side!
I do wish there was a little more in the conflict scenes, maybe a bit more tension, not so fast to have been resolved, so we could really feel what our main characters were going through and making the solution even sweeter for us as the reader.
But all in all, this was a super sweet and cosy read that is perfect for the autumn vibes and spooky vibes I'm looking for right now! 🤎
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book so much, the vibes transmits almost as the feeling of an old tale, the mystery manor, the lost omega and a scent of roses that seems to persuade the pack to come to the forbidden wing of the castle… so whimsical and mysterious… I loved it!
Starting with three movie stars filming their last movie on a small little town were by accident have to stay and a Big Beautiful but imposing manor were the only rule is not to go to the west wing…
I don’t want to spoil it or ruin anything but what I can tell you is that this story is magnetic, the storyline is mysterious and so engaging… I was hooked and can’t stop reading it and this combined to the book being relatively short for a omegaverse I finished it in one sit leaving completely in love with Pack Beauty and their lost omega!
100% recommend it, when I started reading Veronica she quickly became a auto buy author and she just always managed to nail it!
Starting with three movie stars filming their last movie on a small little town were by accident have to stay and a Big Beautiful but imposing manor were the only rule is not to go to the west wing…
I don’t want to spoil it or ruin anything but what I can tell you is that this story is magnetic, the storyline is mysterious and so engaging… I was hooked and can’t stop reading it and this combined to the book being relatively short for a omegaverse I finished it in one sit leaving completely in love with Pack Beauty and their lost omega!
100% recommend it, when I started reading Veronica she quickly became a auto buy author and she just always managed to nail it!
Review of advance copy
ARC Review:
I flew through this book, and it was fantastic! I absolutely loved the plot, and it was fast paced but never rushed; I really enjoyed it. Despite all that Addison went through, she was open to the love that the beauty pack longed to show her. And I loved the banter between the boys. So possessive and you just met her! Although Bello did not start off on the right foot, there was something about him and that called to me, and I absolutely loved him (along with everyone else of course). This book was everything, omg, love love love!
Ratings:
⭐️5
🌶️3.5
💧4
😂1
Aesthetic:
🎬🎭🎥💰🏡🚪🛏️🥀🫂😟💨🌿🏥👩🏻❤️👨🏻👩🏻❤️💋👨🏻
Location:
📍Michigan
Tropes:
❤️mfmm
❤️omv(aoaa)
❤️forced proximity
❤️fmc locked away
❤️fated mates
❤️actor mmcs
❤️protective mmcs
❤️possesive mmcs
❤️small town
❤️hero mmcs
❤️insta love
❤️fast paced
❤️nesting
❤️heat
❤️rut
❤️knotting
❤️mild d/s
❤️hea
Favorite Character:
Bello
Always check content warnings before reading!
I received this book as an ARC.
I flew through this book, and it was fantastic! I absolutely loved the plot, and it was fast paced but never rushed; I really enjoyed it. Despite all that Addison went through, she was open to the love that the beauty pack longed to show her. And I loved the banter between the boys. So possessive and you just met her! Although Bello did not start off on the right foot, there was something about him and that called to me, and I absolutely loved him (along with everyone else of course). This book was everything, omg, love love love!
Ratings:
⭐️5
🌶️3.5
💧4
😂1
Aesthetic:
🎬🎭🎥💰🏡🚪🛏️🥀🫂😟💨🌿🏥👩🏻❤️👨🏻👩🏻❤️💋👨🏻
Location:
📍Michigan
Tropes:
❤️mfmm
❤️omv(aoaa)
❤️forced proximity
❤️fmc locked away
❤️fated mates
❤️actor mmcs
❤️protective mmcs
❤️possesive mmcs
❤️small town
❤️hero mmcs
❤️insta love
❤️fast paced
❤️nesting
❤️heat
❤️rut
❤️knotting
❤️mild d/s
❤️hea
Favorite Character:
Bello
Always check content warnings before reading!
I received this book as an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Definitely recommend it
This was definitely right up my alley! I enjoyed the characters, especiallv Adison. It would have been reallv easy for her to come across as annovina or too naive given how isolated she had been. but she had a lot of strength to her, which I appreciated. I enioyed seeing her come out of her shell throughout the book and watching her relationships with the three alphas develop. I also liked that the three alphas all had different personalities, and the characters felt believable together.
The small-town setting was also a lot of fun, especially with the mystery surrounding the west wing and the "beast."' I enjoyed seeing how everything came together and watching the characters figure out what was actually going on.
If 1 had one complaint. it would be that I felt like the conflict at the end was a little too obvious, and it seemed to wrap up a little too quickly. Other than that, I had a lot of fun with this book and would definitely recommend it!
This was definitely right up my alley! I enjoyed the characters, especiallv Adison. It would have been reallv easy for her to come across as annovina or too naive given how isolated she had been. but she had a lot of strength to her, which I appreciated. I enioyed seeing her come out of her shell throughout the book and watching her relationships with the three alphas develop. I also liked that the three alphas all had different personalities, and the characters felt believable together.
The small-town setting was also a lot of fun, especially with the mystery surrounding the west wing and the "beast."' I enjoyed seeing how everything came together and watching the characters figure out what was actually going on.
If 1 had one complaint. it would be that I felt like the conflict at the end was a little too obvious, and it seemed to wrap up a little too quickly. Other than that, I had a lot of fun with this book and would definitely recommend it!
September 30, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
Such a good book!! I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I sometimes worry with why-choose books that the mmc's will all start to blend into one personality, but that never happens with any of Veronica's books. I love the inspiration that it pulled from Beauty and the Beast without being a copy and paste. This is was a story inspired by another should be. Its still totally unique but still has those elements you know and love from a classic as well.
I love how there was a switch by having Adison be the "beast" and the pack be "beauty" and it was so tastefully done. I often feel like fmc's can come off as weak in an effort to have the mmcs come save them, but here I thought she went through a trauma but was still portrayed as an incredibly strong character despite that. I can't wait to see what Veronica writes next because I have devoured each and every one of her books thus far.
Such a good book!! I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I sometimes worry with why-choose books that the mmc's will all start to blend into one personality, but that never happens with any of Veronica's books. I love the inspiration that it pulled from Beauty and the Beast without being a copy and paste. This is was a story inspired by another should be. Its still totally unique but still has those elements you know and love from a classic as well.
I love how there was a switch by having Adison be the "beast" and the pack be "beauty" and it was so tastefully done. I often feel like fmc's can come off as weak in an effort to have the mmcs come save them, but here I thought she went through a trauma but was still portrayed as an incredibly strong character despite that. I can't wait to see what Veronica writes next because I have devoured each and every one of her books thus far.
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