What do you think?
Rate this book
Not yet published
Expected 16 Sep 26Forced into the home of an unyielding Alpha, a grieving girl bent on revenge ignites a slow-burn werewolf romance where loyalty is law—and legends burn.
Her brother is dead.
Her freedom stolen.
And her greatest danger may be the Alpha werewolf sworn to guard her.
Aloka Tutten never asked to live among the pack. To them, she’s just a human girl—too small, too fragile, an unwanted liability. Her unwilling protector, Stark Lamont, makes no effort to hide that he doesn’t want her in his territory.
But the walls between them aren’t as strong as they should be. His quiet strength pulls her closer. His touch lingers too long. And beneath the heat of his gaze, the truth inside her threatens to break free.
Aloka isn’t what they believe.
And as war looms, her secret will rise—either to save them all…or set their world on fire, even if it burns her too.
Her brother is dead.
Her freedom stolen.
And her greatest danger may be the Alpha werewolf sworn to guard her.
Aloka Tutten never asked to live among the pack. To them, she’s just a human girl—too small, too fragile, an unwanted liability. Her unwilling protector, Stark Lamont, makes no effort to hide that he doesn’t want her in his territory.
But the walls between them aren’t as strong as they should be. His quiet strength pulls her closer. His touch lingers too long. And beneath the heat of his gaze, the truth inside her threatens to break free.
Aloka isn’t what they believe.
And as war looms, her secret will rise—either to save them all…or set their world on fire, even if it burns her too.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 16, 2026
About the author
Izzy Barry
1 book73 followersHi, I’m Izzy, and I write paranormal and dark romance with love you’ll believe in. When I’m not writing, I’m spending time with my husband (my high school sweetheart of twelve years), coaching show jumpers, reading, talking to my dog about my characters, and picking up new hobbies. I may have a bit of a hobby problem.
My debut werewolf romance, Red releases September 16, 2026.
My debut werewolf romance, Red releases September 16, 2026.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 2, 2026
First and foremost, I am so incredibly thankful to receive an ARC of RED.
I honestly can’t remember a time a book hooked me this hard within the first two chapters. I started it on my travels to a week-long conference, and it was a distraction the entire time. All I wanted to do was get back to reading and find out what happened next.
I finished this book in 3 days, though I truly believe that if it wasn’t for life getting in the way (and reading way too late into the night; hitting myself in the face with my Kindle a few times before finally putting it down), I would have easily devoured it in one sitting.
There is something really special about the way that Izzy writes. It has everything I love about a political fantasy and dark romance, but without the dense, slow-moving world-building and politics. My usual complaint with a political fantasy is how slow it progresses, and sometimes it can feel like the political torment never ends. This was not the case here; Aloka’s story, character and relationships progressed naturally throughout the book, with enough story to keep you hooked without ever feeling dragged out.
This one is a slow burn, but the tension? Absolute chef’s kiss. So much so that I genuinely gaslit myself into the male love interest being someone else. You never really know what Aloka will choose to do next, or who she will choose to trust - and that unpredictably makes it impossible to put down.
As for the ending, I still can’t decide if the ending wrapped up too quickly or if I just did not want the book to end. What I do love is that RED doesn’t leave you on a brutal cliff hanger, especially with the duology not yet complete. There is enough closure to satisfy readers, but it still leaves plenty of room for readers to theorise and imagine what could happen next.
If you haven’t pre-ordered it yet, this is your sign
Also, read the acknowledgements. Congratulations, Izzy, in so soooo many ways. <3
I honestly can’t remember a time a book hooked me this hard within the first two chapters. I started it on my travels to a week-long conference, and it was a distraction the entire time. All I wanted to do was get back to reading and find out what happened next.
I finished this book in 3 days, though I truly believe that if it wasn’t for life getting in the way (and reading way too late into the night; hitting myself in the face with my Kindle a few times before finally putting it down), I would have easily devoured it in one sitting.
There is something really special about the way that Izzy writes. It has everything I love about a political fantasy and dark romance, but without the dense, slow-moving world-building and politics. My usual complaint with a political fantasy is how slow it progresses, and sometimes it can feel like the political torment never ends. This was not the case here; Aloka’s story, character and relationships progressed naturally throughout the book, with enough story to keep you hooked without ever feeling dragged out.
This one is a slow burn, but the tension? Absolute chef’s kiss. So much so that I genuinely gaslit myself into the male love interest being someone else. You never really know what Aloka will choose to do next, or who she will choose to trust - and that unpredictably makes it impossible to put down.
As for the ending, I still can’t decide if the ending wrapped up too quickly or if I just did not want the book to end. What I do love is that RED doesn’t leave you on a brutal cliff hanger, especially with the duology not yet complete. There is enough closure to satisfy readers, but it still leaves plenty of room for readers to theorise and imagine what could happen next.
If you haven’t pre-ordered it yet, this is your sign
Also, read the acknowledgements. Congratulations, Izzy, in so soooo many ways. <3
May 16, 2026
First let me say that I loved the names for both MCs and im absolutely obsessed with this cover ! I’m always on the lookout for PR/ Shifter romance especially werewolves ones. RED has absolutely everything I love packed into one book, secrets, heartbreak and a bit of angst. ✋ Aloka lost the last person who knew the true her and her relationship with her brother is felt through the story despite him being gone which I loved the way that love and feelings were portrayed.
She’s now alone in a world that makes her feel unwelcomed and that broke my heart but thats usually what gets me, she’s not a person who lets her circumstances put her down.
Stark is such a broody alpha that I ended up warming up to through out the story. He wasn’t exactly a big jerk but he came off as one due to the confusion or let’s say circumstances that these two are in. We have lovable side characters that I wish I could jump in and hug for treating Alo with true kindness.
I honestly don’t know what to make of this ending but I will say it left me wanting MORE. ALSO, I read this in a day couldn’t put it down. So Izzy Barry thank you so much you now have a new fan who’s ready for when the next comes. 🤍
Aloka has been thrown into a bit of a predicament, she needs to keep herself hidden but wears her self thin doing so, with her brothers gone she has no one. Stark is left to protect her but it might be a bit more than just an obligation. With her brothers murder out there Aloka is determined to help out the ones that don’t see to welcome her for him, to protect the only place she’s ever known as home.
She’s now alone in a world that makes her feel unwelcomed and that broke my heart but thats usually what gets me, she’s not a person who lets her circumstances put her down.
Stark is such a broody alpha that I ended up warming up to through out the story. He wasn’t exactly a big jerk but he came off as one due to the confusion or let’s say circumstances that these two are in. We have lovable side characters that I wish I could jump in and hug for treating Alo with true kindness.
I honestly don’t know what to make of this ending but I will say it left me wanting MORE. ALSO, I read this in a day couldn’t put it down. So Izzy Barry thank you so much you now have a new fan who’s ready for when the next comes. 🤍
Aloka has been thrown into a bit of a predicament, she needs to keep herself hidden but wears her self thin doing so, with her brothers gone she has no one. Stark is left to protect her but it might be a bit more than just an obligation. With her brothers murder out there Aloka is determined to help out the ones that don’t see to welcome her for him, to protect the only place she’s ever known as home.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2026
This book pop up on my algorithm on TikTok and just knew I had to read it .
Once I picked it up I didn’t want put it down.
forced proximity , hiding a secret , and Werewolf shifters had me hooked .
Aloka is FMC and she is determined , Brave ,fearless, Stubborn,a Mystery that need be solved
Her Brother died and wrote a letter for her to stay with young Pack Alpha Stark. - they all think she just another human.
🔥 She runs hot
🐺Werewolf shifters
🔥Slow burn
🧑🧑🧒🧒Found family
🔪Touch and die (both)
I Loved the ending , can’t for next book 📕
Once I picked it up I didn’t want put it down.
forced proximity , hiding a secret , and Werewolf shifters had me hooked .
Aloka is FMC and she is determined , Brave ,fearless, Stubborn,a Mystery that need be solved
Her Brother died and wrote a letter for her to stay with young Pack Alpha Stark. - they all think she just another human.
🔥 She runs hot
🐺Werewolf shifters
🔥Slow burn
🧑🧑🧒🧒Found family
🔪Touch and die (both)
I Loved the ending , can’t for next book 📕
Read
April 2, 2026Aloka is a fierce heroine. She is forced to stay with Stark. They have great chemistry together but you have Nikki who wants to be Stark’s mate.
This book had all the elements to draw the reader into this world. The reader will love how the author was able to combine it all. There is action, romance, mystery and angst. The reader will experience so many emotions as they follow Aloka on her journey.
This book had all the elements to draw the reader into this world. The reader will love how the author was able to combine it all. There is action, romance, mystery and angst. The reader will experience so many emotions as they follow Aloka on her journey.
April 3, 2026
I really loved Red by Izzy Barry. From the start, I found myself completely drawn to the characters—you can’t help but fall in love with them. Stark’s overprotective nature made me like him even more, and Aloka is so lovable and relatable that it was easy to connect with her.
Werewolf stories can be hard to get right, but this one felt fresh and enjoyable. For a first-time indie author, this is such a strong and heartfelt debut. I’m really excited to see what Izzy Barry writes next.
Werewolf stories can be hard to get right, but this one felt fresh and enjoyable. For a first-time indie author, this is such a strong and heartfelt debut. I’m really excited to see what Izzy Barry writes next.
April 9, 2026
Oh my word this book!!!! I could not put it down. I was up till 2 in the morning not being able to put it down because I had to know what going to happen next. I was laughing,crying in places, white knuckling my kindle to wanting to throw it across the room.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced Reader Copy and can honestly say I am not disappointed at all. Top tier read for me. I’m here for the vibes.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced Reader Copy and can honestly say I am not disappointed at all. Top tier read for me. I’m here for the vibes.
Read
May 5, 2026I went into Red thinking I’d get a classic werewolf story… and it turned into so much more. The story follows Aloka, who’s forced into an Alpha’s territory after losing her brother, and from the start you can feel how out of place she is — surrounded by a pack that doesn’t trust her, and stuck with a protector who clearly doesn’t want her there 🐺
What really hooked me was the dynamic between Aloka and Stark. It has that perfect forced proximity + enemies-to-lovers + slow burn tension where everything feels restrained but intense at the same time. The way their relationship builds — through small moments, lingering touches, and all that unspoken tension — was so good 🖤
I also loved the underlying mystery around Aloka. You know from the beginning that she’s hiding something, and it adds this constant pressure to the story, especially with the threat of war getting closer. It’s very much “hidden identity” + “she’s more powerful than they think”, and I was completely invested in when everything would finally come to light.
By the end, I was hooked on both the emotional side and the bigger stakes. It’s intense, a little angsty, and exactly the kind of slow-burn paranormal romance I love 🔥
What really hooked me was the dynamic between Aloka and Stark. It has that perfect forced proximity + enemies-to-lovers + slow burn tension where everything feels restrained but intense at the same time. The way their relationship builds — through small moments, lingering touches, and all that unspoken tension — was so good 🖤
I also loved the underlying mystery around Aloka. You know from the beginning that she’s hiding something, and it adds this constant pressure to the story, especially with the threat of war getting closer. It’s very much “hidden identity” + “she’s more powerful than they think”, and I was completely invested in when everything would finally come to light.
By the end, I was hooked on both the emotional side and the bigger stakes. It’s intense, a little angsty, and exactly the kind of slow-burn paranormal romance I love 🔥
April 28, 2026
ARC Review
Full review to follow - I finished this book in one day. I love the characters Aloka and Stark, and Jocko is someone I’d love to spend time with.
“My Mate, My House, My Rules”
Full review to follow - I finished this book in one day. I love the characters Aloka and Stark, and Jocko is someone I’d love to spend time with.
“My Mate, My House, My Rules”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what a debut! I genuinely devoured this book in one day, and honestly, that says everything. It has everything I look for in a good fantasy novel: tension, mystery, romance, and a world that keeps you completely hooked from start to finish. I was pulled in from the very first pages and didn’t want to leave.
Ratings
Spicy: 🌶️ 1/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5
Aloka was a complete mystery to me at the beginning of the book, and I loved that. You only get small fragments of information about her, which makes reading feel like solving a puzzle in your head. It keeps you alert and constantly guessing, because you never fully know what is going on or how a situation will unfold. Aloka is determined, brave, and unpredictable in the best way, which made her such an engaging heroine to follow.
As the story progresses, you slowly get to know her brother Pratt and Alpha Stark better. This development felt natural and well paced, and the relationships built gradually in a way that felt believable and never rushed. I really appreciated how the author gave the characters time to grow and allowed the connections between them to develop organically.
The book touches on deeper themes such as grief, being the outsider, and having to make impossible choices. These are not easy topics to write about, but Izzy handled them beautifully. The pacing supports these emotional layers really well and keeps the story balanced between action, character development, and world building.
I don’t want to spoil too much about the storyline, but I do want to highlight how refreshing the plot felt. At the beginning, I briefly thought this might follow a familiar fantasy pattern I had read before, just in a different setting. That idea disappeared within the first two chapters. The plot is original, well constructed, and clearly built with a lot of care and love. You can feel that this book was carefully thought out and crafted.
One thing I especially appreciated is that, even though this is part of a duology, the book does not end with a massive cliffhanger. The ending feels satisfying (for now) while still making you excited and curious for what comes next, which is honestly the perfect balance.
All in all, this was an impressive and addictive debut that I would absolutely recommend to fantasy readers. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book and dive back into this world.
Thanks a lot for letting me read your book!
Ratings
Spicy: 🌶️ 1/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5
Aloka was a complete mystery to me at the beginning of the book, and I loved that. You only get small fragments of information about her, which makes reading feel like solving a puzzle in your head. It keeps you alert and constantly guessing, because you never fully know what is going on or how a situation will unfold. Aloka is determined, brave, and unpredictable in the best way, which made her such an engaging heroine to follow.
As the story progresses, you slowly get to know her brother Pratt and Alpha Stark better. This development felt natural and well paced, and the relationships built gradually in a way that felt believable and never rushed. I really appreciated how the author gave the characters time to grow and allowed the connections between them to develop organically.
The book touches on deeper themes such as grief, being the outsider, and having to make impossible choices. These are not easy topics to write about, but Izzy handled them beautifully. The pacing supports these emotional layers really well and keeps the story balanced between action, character development, and world building.
I don’t want to spoil too much about the storyline, but I do want to highlight how refreshing the plot felt. At the beginning, I briefly thought this might follow a familiar fantasy pattern I had read before, just in a different setting. That idea disappeared within the first two chapters. The plot is original, well constructed, and clearly built with a lot of care and love. You can feel that this book was carefully thought out and crafted.
One thing I especially appreciated is that, even though this is part of a duology, the book does not end with a massive cliffhanger. The ending feels satisfying (for now) while still making you excited and curious for what comes next, which is honestly the perfect balance.
All in all, this was an impressive and addictive debut that I would absolutely recommend to fantasy readers. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book and dive back into this world.
Thanks a lot for letting me read your book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an honor to be a ARC reader for this book because WOW… this was such an incredible read.
I finished this in less than a day. I literally could not put it down. From the very beginning it just pulls you in and keeps you there. I honestly cannot believe this is a debut because it was written so well. Huge kudos because this book was amazing.
The FMC was such a standout for me. She is strong, determined, and carries so much emotional weight but still holds her ground in every situation. You really feel her drive, her pain, and her resilience. And the MMC… he is that perfect mix of grumpy, mysterious, protective, and soft underneath it all. Their dynamic together was everything. Watching their relationship slowly build and shift into something deeper was so satisfying.
The slow burn in this book was done so well. The tension, the looks, the small moments… it all added up in a way that kept me completely hooked. Their connection felt natural and emotional, not rushed, and it just kept getting better as the story went on.
I also really loved how easy this book was to get into. The world and plot were clear and engaging without feeling overwhelming or hard to follow. Everything flowed really well, and the pacing kept things moving without ever feeling dragged out.
The twists were so good too. I never felt like I could fully predict what was going to happen next, which made it even more exciting to read. It kept me on my toes the entire time.
Overall, this was such a strong, addictive read with amazing characters, great tension, and a story that keeps you fully invested. I loved the concept, I loved the execution, and I am already excited to see what comes next from this author.
I finished this in less than a day. I literally could not put it down. From the very beginning it just pulls you in and keeps you there. I honestly cannot believe this is a debut because it was written so well. Huge kudos because this book was amazing.
The FMC was such a standout for me. She is strong, determined, and carries so much emotional weight but still holds her ground in every situation. You really feel her drive, her pain, and her resilience. And the MMC… he is that perfect mix of grumpy, mysterious, protective, and soft underneath it all. Their dynamic together was everything. Watching their relationship slowly build and shift into something deeper was so satisfying.
The slow burn in this book was done so well. The tension, the looks, the small moments… it all added up in a way that kept me completely hooked. Their connection felt natural and emotional, not rushed, and it just kept getting better as the story went on.
I also really loved how easy this book was to get into. The world and plot were clear and engaging without feeling overwhelming or hard to follow. Everything flowed really well, and the pacing kept things moving without ever feeling dragged out.
The twists were so good too. I never felt like I could fully predict what was going to happen next, which made it even more exciting to read. It kept me on my toes the entire time.
Overall, this was such a strong, addictive read with amazing characters, great tension, and a story that keeps you fully invested. I loved the concept, I loved the execution, and I am already excited to see what comes next from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a dark M/F wolf shifter romance with a slightly different take on wolf shifter legend. It has grief, trauma, banter, danger, growing emotions, life-altering secrets, a shady Council of Elders and still lots more to be discovered in the next installment of this duology.
The FMC Alorka is young, short and constantly being underestimated, but boy did she make the most of that. And the mouth on her was so snarky! I really got some good kicks out of her putting people in their places. Go girl!
And the moody, brooding, uber-duty-bound MMC Stark? Yes, he was a fun nut to crack and it seems even the aloof ones can get pissy and lose their tempers and their patience.
The dynamics between these two were fun to follow along with and the chemistry was definitely there, although it started out as a slow-burn.
Alorka is a woman of many secrets and keeping them has made her life incredibly difficult, but all she wants it to do what it best for the pack and the people (wolf shifters) she grew up with, all while keeping herself safe. And the lengths she will go to to do this are extreme and just go to show that you absolutely cannot judge a book by its cover.
And Stark? Well, he is a force to be reckoned with and will do anything to protect those under his care - including and especially Alorka.
There are some important found family members - especially Jocko - who offer support and help our MCs when they are being a bit dense ;)
The FMC Alorka is young, short and constantly being underestimated, but boy did she make the most of that. And the mouth on her was so snarky! I really got some good kicks out of her putting people in their places. Go girl!
And the moody, brooding, uber-duty-bound MMC Stark? Yes, he was a fun nut to crack and it seems even the aloof ones can get pissy and lose their tempers and their patience.
The dynamics between these two were fun to follow along with and the chemistry was definitely there, although it started out as a slow-burn.
Alorka is a woman of many secrets and keeping them has made her life incredibly difficult, but all she wants it to do what it best for the pack and the people (wolf shifters) she grew up with, all while keeping herself safe. And the lengths she will go to to do this are extreme and just go to show that you absolutely cannot judge a book by its cover.
And Stark? Well, he is a force to be reckoned with and will do anything to protect those under his care - including and especially Alorka.
There are some important found family members - especially Jocko - who offer support and help our MCs when they are being a bit dense ;)
Review of advance copy
An absolutely incredible debut novel! Thank you Izzy for being Aloka and Starks story to life.
Aloka has a secret. She’s special and unique, not just in her personality. She leads everyone to believe she is a weak human because she is smaller than the average shifter. She so brave. She puts her own life on the line to infiltrate the humans just to ensure the safety of a pack who reluctantly took her in and race that have essentially shunned her. Thats ballsy.
Stark is bold, arrogant, stubborn, ruthless, fair, as he any good Alpha should be. He puts the needs of his pack in high regard and will do whatever he deems necessary to keep them all safe.
Their dynamic is fantastic. They are both so obviously into each other but too stubborn to admit it. I loved how Stark just kept putting himself in her way. Alo wanted to run, her went with her, she wanted to read and research he got her books and rare texts
This is the perfect pack for her, Pratt was right to ask Stark to look after her. So many incredible characters, Jocko, Kiya, Mitus, Hudry are all wonderful in their own way. Nikki, I wanted to like her, but I just couldn’t. She was so mean and spiteful to Aloka and tried to force a relationship with Stark that just wasn’t there.
I do wish that she felt more confident that she could share her secret sooner. This would be the group that would have her back and supported her.
Aloka has a secret. She’s special and unique, not just in her personality. She leads everyone to believe she is a weak human because she is smaller than the average shifter. She so brave. She puts her own life on the line to infiltrate the humans just to ensure the safety of a pack who reluctantly took her in and race that have essentially shunned her. Thats ballsy.
Stark is bold, arrogant, stubborn, ruthless, fair, as he any good Alpha should be. He puts the needs of his pack in high regard and will do whatever he deems necessary to keep them all safe.
Their dynamic is fantastic. They are both so obviously into each other but too stubborn to admit it. I loved how Stark just kept putting himself in her way. Alo wanted to run, her went with her, she wanted to read and research he got her books and rare texts
This is the perfect pack for her, Pratt was right to ask Stark to look after her. So many incredible characters, Jocko, Kiya, Mitus, Hudry are all wonderful in their own way. Nikki, I wanted to like her, but I just couldn’t. She was so mean and spiteful to Aloka and tried to force a relationship with Stark that just wasn’t there.
I do wish that she felt more confident that she could share her secret sooner. This would be the group that would have her back and supported her.
Review of advance copy
I went into Red thinking I’d get a classic werewolf story… and it turned into so much more. The story follows Aloka, who’s forced into an Alpha’s territory after losing her brother, and from the start you can feel how out of place she is — surrounded by a pack that doesn’t trust her, and stuck with a protector who clearly doesn’t want her there 🐺
What really hooked me was the dynamic between Aloka and Stark. It has that perfect forced proximity + enemies-to-lovers + slow burn tension where everything feels restrained but intense at the same time. The way their relationship builds — through small moments, lingering touches, and all that unspoken tension — was so good 🖤
I also loved the underlying mystery around Aloka. You know from the beginning that she’s hiding something, and it adds this constant pressure to the story, especially with the threat of war getting closer. It’s very much “hidden identity” + “she’s more powerful than they think”, and I was completely invested in when everything would finally come to light.
By the end, I was hooked on both the emotional side and the bigger stakes. It’s intense, a little angsty, and exactly the kind of slow-burn paranormal romance I love 🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Booksirens.
What really hooked me was the dynamic between Aloka and Stark. It has that perfect forced proximity + enemies-to-lovers + slow burn tension where everything feels restrained but intense at the same time. The way their relationship builds — through small moments, lingering touches, and all that unspoken tension — was so good 🖤
I also loved the underlying mystery around Aloka. You know from the beginning that she’s hiding something, and it adds this constant pressure to the story, especially with the threat of war getting closer. It’s very much “hidden identity” + “she’s more powerful than they think”, and I was completely invested in when everything would finally come to light.
By the end, I was hooked on both the emotional side and the bigger stakes. It’s intense, a little angsty, and exactly the kind of slow-burn paranormal romance I love 🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Booksirens.
Review of advance copy
RED was an absolute page-turner for me. I genuinely stayed up all night (on a work night) reading because I could not put it down. Every chapter pulls you straight into the next with that dangerous “just one more chapter” feeling… and suddenly it’s sunrise.
The summary honestly could not have prepared me for the emotional depth, dynamic cast of characters, and level of tension woven throughout this story. There’s always something happening beneath the surface, whether emotionally, politically, or within the relationships themselves, and it kept me completely invested from beginning to end.
And the tension? The tension was absolutely tensioning. The relationships feel layered, emotionally charged, and addictive in the best way, without slowing down the momentum of the story.
Beyond the romance and tension, the cast of characters brings so much life to the world. Every dynamic feels distinct and engaging, which made the story feel even more immersive as everything unfolded.
Overall, this book completely pulled me in, emotionally wrecked me just enough, and left me immediately needing the next book. I would happily volunteer for the review team for the second part right now.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am sharing my honest thoughts voluntarily.
The summary honestly could not have prepared me for the emotional depth, dynamic cast of characters, and level of tension woven throughout this story. There’s always something happening beneath the surface, whether emotionally, politically, or within the relationships themselves, and it kept me completely invested from beginning to end.
And the tension? The tension was absolutely tensioning. The relationships feel layered, emotionally charged, and addictive in the best way, without slowing down the momentum of the story.
Beyond the romance and tension, the cast of characters brings so much life to the world. Every dynamic feels distinct and engaging, which made the story feel even more immersive as everything unfolded.
Overall, this book completely pulled me in, emotionally wrecked me just enough, and left me immediately needing the next book. I would happily volunteer for the review team for the second part right now.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am sharing my honest thoughts voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of RED, and it pulled me in almost immediately. Within the first chapter, I knew this was going to be one of those books that’s hard to put down. Sleep took a backseat, and everyday responsibilities definitely waited a little longer than planned.
This was the kind of read where you tell yourself “just one more chapter,” only to realize hours have passed. I finished it in under 24 hours, which is rare for me unless a story really has its hooks in me.
The characters were a standout. There’s usually at least one that doesn’t quite work for me—often the FMC—but that wasn’t the case here. Izzy created characters that felt believable, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Somehow Izzy made every character feel real, lovable, and emotionally damaging in the best way. I laughed with them, cried with them, rooted for them.
I genuinely did not want this book to end. For a debut novel, RED is an impressive achievement, and Izzy clearly has a strong storytelling voice. I’m already looking forward to what comes next and will absolutely be reading more from her in the future ❤️🐺
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of RED, and it pulled me in almost immediately. Within the first chapter, I knew this was going to be one of those books that’s hard to put down. Sleep took a backseat, and everyday responsibilities definitely waited a little longer than planned.
This was the kind of read where you tell yourself “just one more chapter,” only to realize hours have passed. I finished it in under 24 hours, which is rare for me unless a story really has its hooks in me.
The characters were a standout. There’s usually at least one that doesn’t quite work for me—often the FMC—but that wasn’t the case here. Izzy created characters that felt believable, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Somehow Izzy made every character feel real, lovable, and emotionally damaging in the best way. I laughed with them, cried with them, rooted for them.
I genuinely did not want this book to end. For a debut novel, RED is an impressive achievement, and Izzy clearly has a strong storytelling voice. I’m already looking forward to what comes next and will absolutely be reading more from her in the future ❤️🐺
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sometimes a girl just needs to read a wolf shifter book in under 24 hours to cure her of a book slump.
This was a quick and easy shifter read that I really enjoyed and hit just how I needed it to. Aloka is a latent wolf with a head full of secrets when her brother dies and she’s forced to live with the alpha of their pack. The last place she wants to be is under the overly watchful eye of Stark especially as her life is in danger as a “human” living among wolves.
There is nothing more frustrating or that I love more than a clueless FMC who is so caught up in her head that she doesn’t notice the MMC falling hard and fast. It’s just so damn cute. Poor Aloka. Homegirl was just so clueless. But I also bought in to her need for hiding and secrecy when she has no one left she can trust. Stark brought all the yearning and tension and I would have killed for a POV from him. I always have liked the silent brooding type who just wants to feed you.
If you’re a fan of mildly angsty shifter books with tall quiet alphas and short quirky girls and a painfully slow burn then this one is for you.
This was a quick and easy shifter read that I really enjoyed and hit just how I needed it to. Aloka is a latent wolf with a head full of secrets when her brother dies and she’s forced to live with the alpha of their pack. The last place she wants to be is under the overly watchful eye of Stark especially as her life is in danger as a “human” living among wolves.
There is nothing more frustrating or that I love more than a clueless FMC who is so caught up in her head that she doesn’t notice the MMC falling hard and fast. It’s just so damn cute. Poor Aloka. Homegirl was just so clueless. But I also bought in to her need for hiding and secrecy when she has no one left she can trust. Stark brought all the yearning and tension and I would have killed for a POV from him. I always have liked the silent brooding type who just wants to feed you.
If you’re a fan of mildly angsty shifter books with tall quiet alphas and short quirky girls and a painfully slow burn then this one is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This paranormal romance is full of tension and secrets. Stark, the Alpha of a region of wolf shifters, is massive, stoic, and perpetually grumpy. Aloka is forced to live with him after human hunters killed her brother, and she's far from happy about that fact. She is quiet, isolative, homesick, and diminutive in stature compared to other clan members. She believes Stark is being compelled to keep her in his home and must resent her. The story is told from dual POV so we get both MC's perspectives, and are aware that Aloka is keeping multiple secrets, though the reason is unclear.
The plotline is straightforward and the storyline keeps the reader invested in the relationships developing on page. There are secondary characters that play significant roles in the advancement of the plot, and hopefully will feature as lead in a future book. This tale dies keep the reader on the edge of their seat during some of the action scenes. It was a compelling read and I look forward to more in the series.
I received a gift copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
The plotline is straightforward and the storyline keeps the reader invested in the relationships developing on page. There are secondary characters that play significant roles in the advancement of the plot, and hopefully will feature as lead in a future book. This tale dies keep the reader on the edge of their seat during some of the action scenes. It was a compelling read and I look forward to more in the series.
I received a gift copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aloka has been hidden away from the world with only her brother to rely on and to protect her. When she loses him, she's forced to not only live with an alpha she doesn't know but interact with people who despise her. She has a huge secret but if they knew, would they accept her or despise her even more. Aloka is a great character. She's got spunk, snark, and doesn't back down from anything. She's willing to risk everything to save people who would be fine with her death. Stark is an emotionally closed off alpha who will protect her at all cost. There's witty banter, action, and a slow burn romance. There were times I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't put the book down because I wasn't sure what would happen next. I would ve loved to have Stark's POV. I hope another book comes soon so we learn more about Aloka and get a lot more spice with Stark. I'd also love to see Gretch again.
Review of advance copy
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I could not put this book down aside from working andI managed to finish in three days. Aloka’s sadness and pain could be felt for her family in addition to her feeling alone. Although there weee times I was yelling at her for the choices she made and not questioning others. It does show the real struggles one has within finding your one and not knowing, but had Stark and Aloka actually talked maybe they would not have had the issues they started with.
Some of the turns I couldn’t see where they were headed which made not wanting to put the book down to see if what u thought would happen or not. I was pleased with how the story flowed with no real dull spots, all the lore about magic and the Red one was enough to get me hooked.
There is so much more that I can’t wait to read the next one, just sad that I have to wait for it.
I could not put this book down aside from working andI managed to finish in three days. Aloka’s sadness and pain could be felt for her family in addition to her feeling alone. Although there weee times I was yelling at her for the choices she made and not questioning others. It does show the real struggles one has within finding your one and not knowing, but had Stark and Aloka actually talked maybe they would not have had the issues they started with.
Some of the turns I couldn’t see where they were headed which made not wanting to put the book down to see if what u thought would happen or not. I was pleased with how the story flowed with no real dull spots, all the lore about magic and the Red one was enough to get me hooked.
There is so much more that I can’t wait to read the next one, just sad that I have to wait for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC
Chapter One had me! I love a good book that can catch my attention right away. Aloka’s world is turned upside down by tragedy. Forced to move in with the brooding Alpha. She is hiding a secret that only she knows and it becomes increasingly difficult as the pack is tighteniting security.
I think Aloka is a badass! You do you type of girl! She is tougher than she looks with everyone doubting her she holds her own and believes in herself.
Everyone might be singing a new tune after they have underestiamted her.
Aloka and Stark have a very slow burn chemistry. It is so realistic though due to their miscommunications and not truly hearing what the other is saying. Make no mistake though do not talk bad about Aloka or touch her!
I loved this book and I cannot wait for the next one!
Chapter One had me! I love a good book that can catch my attention right away. Aloka’s world is turned upside down by tragedy. Forced to move in with the brooding Alpha. She is hiding a secret that only she knows and it becomes increasingly difficult as the pack is tighteniting security.
I think Aloka is a badass! You do you type of girl! She is tougher than she looks with everyone doubting her she holds her own and believes in herself.
Everyone might be singing a new tune after they have underestiamted her.
Aloka and Stark have a very slow burn chemistry. It is so realistic though due to their miscommunications and not truly hearing what the other is saying. Make no mistake though do not talk bad about Aloka or touch her!
I loved this book and I cannot wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Author Izzy Barry’s debut novel, Red, is pure entertainment. Stark and Aloka are prime examples of two intelligent, likable, capable people that are completely clueless to mating signals—and allow frustration to blind their communication skills. Lots of action going on here. Can’t wait to see who’s next in this series. Admittedly, I have zero interest in Nikki, so I hope she’s not in the lineup—She’s just crazier than an outhouse rat. lol
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Stark
FMC:
✨Aloka
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Book 1: The Myth That Burns
Tropes:
👉shifter romance
👉secret identity
👉forced proximity
👉werewolves
👉revenge
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥death
💥violence
💥revenge
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Stark
FMC:
✨Aloka
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Book 1: The Myth That Burns
Tropes:
👉shifter romance
👉secret identity
👉forced proximity
👉werewolves
👉revenge
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥death
💥violence
💥revenge
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ahhh this book!!! Like many readers I’m a little magpie for a beautiful cover and this one hooked me.
I decided a few days back that I would just start the ball rolling as with the book release being set a little time away I could absolutely manage reading a few pages a day, totally manageable! Never mind that I’ve now missed half a dozen deadlines, I blazed through this book like it was being released tomorrow.
This story evoked so many emotions, my amusement at the FMC and her STRONG sense of stubbornness, raging at how blind she is which tickled me silly as we’ve ALL been there and the incessant teasing… yeah you know the scenes.
This story absolutely has strong grounds to be a duology… hint hint … (please!)
But otherwise thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC, I loved it!
I decided a few days back that I would just start the ball rolling as with the book release being set a little time away I could absolutely manage reading a few pages a day, totally manageable! Never mind that I’ve now missed half a dozen deadlines, I blazed through this book like it was being released tomorrow.
This story evoked so many emotions, my amusement at the FMC and her STRONG sense of stubbornness, raging at how blind she is which tickled me silly as we’ve ALL been there and the incessant teasing… yeah you know the scenes.
This story absolutely has strong grounds to be a duology… hint hint … (please!)
But otherwise thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC, I loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Her secret has been hidden by her family but with the death of her brother everything changes. Taken to Stark, the Alpha, and placed in his protection per her brother's request, she needs to hide what she really is. Hated by some, ignored by others she finds his attention disturbing. Determined to do something that matters, she risks exposing herself and when Stark finally see her as she truly is what will happen. I loved the tension between the characters, one seeming to miss the obvious attraction of the mate bond and the other I suffering to contain it. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. A great read, I look forward to more of their story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced reader copy review
Spoilers
This one is a page turner! I couldn't put it down. I haven’t read many shifter books and this makes me want to read more of them. It's about werewolf shifters protecting themselves against humans. The main female character has a secret of her own that she must hide to protect herself from the shifters, while also living with them. Her character grows throughout the story as she makes friends and falls in love. I'm interested to see where this story goes as it is a duology. It doesn’t end on a big cliff hanger, which I appreciated. But it does leave room for plenty of theories about what happens next. I definitely recommend giving this one a read!
Spoilers
This one is a page turner! I couldn't put it down. I haven’t read many shifter books and this makes me want to read more of them. It's about werewolf shifters protecting themselves against humans. The main female character has a secret of her own that she must hide to protect herself from the shifters, while also living with them. Her character grows throughout the story as she makes friends and falls in love. I'm interested to see where this story goes as it is a duology. It doesn’t end on a big cliff hanger, which I appreciated. But it does leave room for plenty of theories about what happens next. I definitely recommend giving this one a read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
What a book! This was a twist on the normal wolf shifter novels I've read, in a good way!
To me, what stuck out the most, is the theme of acceptance. Aloka has kept something hidden from everyone except for her mom and her brother. It's for her safety, yet she's always felt so alone. What if trusting someone new, is the last thing she does? She's also a strong female character. She's fierce and speaks her truth without a care for consequences.
Stark is the broody Alpha sworn to protect her. While Aloka sees this arrangement as a prison, Stark does not.
This was a new take on a shifter romance for me and I enjoyed it! I can't wait to see how this duology ends!
To me, what stuck out the most, is the theme of acceptance. Aloka has kept something hidden from everyone except for her mom and her brother. It's for her safety, yet she's always felt so alone. What if trusting someone new, is the last thing she does? She's also a strong female character. She's fierce and speaks her truth without a care for consequences.
Stark is the broody Alpha sworn to protect her. While Aloka sees this arrangement as a prison, Stark does not.
This was a new take on a shifter romance for me and I enjoyed it! I can't wait to see how this duology ends!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such an addictive werewolf read. A heroine forced to live in hiding finally finds herself under the protection of an alpha willing to guard not only her life but her secrets too. Watching her slowly learn to trust while danger closes in made the story really compelling.
The action scenes were intense, the pack dynamics kept things interesting, and the slow-burn romance between a protective alpha and a guarded heroine was perfectly done. A great mix of emotion, loyalty, and high-stakes battle that kept me turning pages.
The action scenes were intense, the pack dynamics kept things interesting, and the slow-burn romance between a protective alpha and a guarded heroine was perfectly done. A great mix of emotion, loyalty, and high-stakes battle that kept me turning pages.
Review of advance copy received from Author
At the beginning I had a feeling like I missed something, like there was a book before, or this is a series, but it was her first book. It was a pretty slow burner, I was waiting for some honesty from her, I did not really feel the connection. I was wondering what he sees in her, since she always was very brisk and brushing him off. She was so clueless at times. Just talk to one another. It was kind of frustrating at times. After more than half the story took off and they connected finally. All in all it was a good fantasy story with some flaws.
May 18, 2026
A quick and easy shifter read that I really vibed with. I think this book would be a great introduction to the shifter world.
Aloka is a latent wolf with some big secrets and is forced to stay with Alpha Stark after her brother dies. This creates some hostility because the last place she wants to be is under the watchful eye of the Alpha when all she wants to do is keep her secret and live in peace. Stark, believing Aloka is a human, takes his job seriously and does all he can to keep her safe while slowing falling for her.
The romance in this book makes you want to punch both Aloka and Stark. The way they both misread each other is frustrating, but it works for the plot. The way Stark falls hard for her makes me wish we had a dual POV for this book. I enjoyed watching Aloka make a place for herself in Starks pack and some of the side characters were hilarious.
Also, there is just something so hot about shifter romances in general.
Tropes:
-shifter romance
-slow burn
-found family
-forced proximity
-ARC READ. Thank you to the author for an e-arc of this book for my honest review.
Aloka is a latent wolf with some big secrets and is forced to stay with Alpha Stark after her brother dies. This creates some hostility because the last place she wants to be is under the watchful eye of the Alpha when all she wants to do is keep her secret and live in peace. Stark, believing Aloka is a human, takes his job seriously and does all he can to keep her safe while slowing falling for her.
The romance in this book makes you want to punch both Aloka and Stark. The way they both misread each other is frustrating, but it works for the plot. The way Stark falls hard for her makes me wish we had a dual POV for this book. I enjoyed watching Aloka make a place for herself in Starks pack and some of the side characters were hilarious.
Also, there is just something so hot about shifter romances in general.
Tropes:
-shifter romance
-slow burn
-found family
-forced proximity
-ARC READ. Thank you to the author for an e-arc of this book for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Red is a book about over coming grief and becoming a strong FMC. Aloka the FMC is thrust into a situation she didn't ask for or want but because of it we get forced proximity with the MMC. But she also has a secret. Torn between the past and the warnings from her mom and brother and the present wanting to tell the MMC but scared of the outcome Aloka battles her deamons alone while figuring put who she can trust.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A gripping werewolf story set in Canada that completely pulled me in.
I couldn’t stop reading—this book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. It’s an emotional roller coaster in the best way possible. I loved Aloka so much, and the story just kept getting better and better.
Also… a Canadian author + Canadian setting?? I love that so much
And can we talk about the cover? It’s SO pretty and fits the story perfectly.
I already need more 🐺❤️
I couldn’t stop reading—this book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. It’s an emotional roller coaster in the best way possible. I loved Aloka so much, and the story just kept getting better and better.
Also… a Canadian author + Canadian setting?? I love that so much
And can we talk about the cover? It’s SO pretty and fits the story perfectly.
I already need more 🐺❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews