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Nightmare Misfits #1
Destiny
She doesn’t have a mark.
She doesn’t have a House.
And she definitely doesn’t have time for five men who keep looking at her like she’s already changed everything.
Nova survived by staying invisible. No territory. No origin claim. No system deciding who she belongs to or what she’s allowed to become. It worked—until the Academy found her, flagged her as a threat, and locked her into a bonded cluster of five men who were never supposed to exist together.
She didn’t choose them.
She doesn’t trust them.
Her body didn’t get the memo.
One adjusts the coffee so she won’t flinch.
One fills her plate without asking.
One holds eye contact too long.
One smiles like he’s trying not to.
One calls her beautiful—and then forgets how to breathe.
They don’t ask her to be softer.
She doesn’t ask them to stop watching.
The bond isn’t supposed to feel like this. The system wasn’t built for proximity, or choice, or the way something keeps tightening beneath the Academy—inside her chest, between all of them.
Then a sixth man steps into the circle.
He was never part of the design.
And the system starts watching closer.
Destiny is a slow-burn why choose romantasy featuring
– a feral, emotionally locked-down heroine
– five protective disasters (and one very inconvenient sixth)
– forced proximity, forbidden bonds, and found family
– awkward tension, accidental touches, and heat no one’s allowed to name
– a system built to keep people apart—and the cluster that breaks it
Book One in the Nightmare Misfits series.
She doesn’t have a House.
And she definitely doesn’t have time for five men who keep looking at her like she’s already changed everything.
Nova survived by staying invisible. No territory. No origin claim. No system deciding who she belongs to or what she’s allowed to become. It worked—until the Academy found her, flagged her as a threat, and locked her into a bonded cluster of five men who were never supposed to exist together.
She didn’t choose them.
She doesn’t trust them.
Her body didn’t get the memo.
One adjusts the coffee so she won’t flinch.
One fills her plate without asking.
One holds eye contact too long.
One smiles like he’s trying not to.
One calls her beautiful—and then forgets how to breathe.
They don’t ask her to be softer.
She doesn’t ask them to stop watching.
The bond isn’t supposed to feel like this. The system wasn’t built for proximity, or choice, or the way something keeps tightening beneath the Academy—inside her chest, between all of them.
Then a sixth man steps into the circle.
He was never part of the design.
And the system starts watching closer.
Destiny is a slow-burn why choose romantasy featuring
– a feral, emotionally locked-down heroine
– five protective disasters (and one very inconvenient sixth)
– forced proximity, forbidden bonds, and found family
– awkward tension, accidental touches, and heat no one’s allowed to name
– a system built to keep people apart—and the cluster that breaks it
Book One in the Nightmare Misfits series.
301 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2026
About the author
CeeCee Crow
4 books58 followersCeeCee Crow writes dark, slow-burn romance for readers who like their heroines guarded, their heroes obsessed, and their bonds impossible to walk away from. Her books live in the tension — the half-glance, the held breath, the moment someone realizes they're already in too deep.
She's drawn to feral women, quiet devotion, and the kind of love that doesn't ask permission. If a character is morally gray, emotionally unavailable, or one bad day away from burning it all down, she's probably writing about him.
She lives in Wisconsin and writes the books she wishes someone had handed her years ago.
She's drawn to feral women, quiet devotion, and the kind of love that doesn't ask permission. If a character is morally gray, emotionally unavailable, or one bad day away from burning it all down, she's probably writing about him.
She lives in Wisconsin and writes the books she wishes someone had handed her years ago.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
March 16, 2026
2 not for lack of potential more for lack of follow through on the ideas.
spoilers.
Let's start with the biggest issue this book has. Lack of world building of any kind. We are in a world that has multiples courts which we know because their cluster comes from all courts (we get that from them getting mocked). Aside from this tidbit we get clusters and the academy and that is the end of her world building. I know our FMC is not aware of a lot of things, but knowing she has to run for15 years and stay out of the system should be accompanied by knowledge of what she is running from or the society she lives in at the very least.
The next issue after the huge lack of world building is relationship building for me. Who is in the harem? I felt like we rushed through names and since we don't get super clear connections right away it's hard to remember. We get rushed relationships which is fine because it's the and possible fated mates but still make it believable and worth our time.
The story also lacks depth. We have hard topics that are glossed over and not really given time to breath and if there is anything I can say to this author is to allow the story to breath and to sit in the story and allow tension to build. We are tackling homelessness, society problems, bullying of your peers even if you a grown adult at academy and it feels like we hurriedly brish past the uncomfortable feelings. Readers come to feel something, to feel a certain way and speeding everything up takes away that ability. I want to know these characters and who they are from their experiences and that did not happen.
Lastly, and I think this is the biggest issue and why this book series won't be for me. it was choppy and felt like it was on fast forward. Almost as if she took her outline and submitted it. We get such short scenes, and short chapters and short sentences even and it gives a huge lack of information which takes you out of the story. What are clusters? What is the societies goal? Why let the guys have a cluster if they aren't sanctioned to have one.? Does everyone who goes to the academy do so I'm a non fun manner? I mean I have probably enough questions to fill more pages that this book had.
Overall again this idea is cool but the way it's done falls flat and it had so much more potential.
spoilers.
Let's start with the biggest issue this book has. Lack of world building of any kind. We are in a world that has multiples courts which we know because their cluster comes from all courts (we get that from them getting mocked). Aside from this tidbit we get clusters and the academy and that is the end of her world building. I know our FMC is not aware of a lot of things, but knowing she has to run for15 years and stay out of the system should be accompanied by knowledge of what she is running from or the society she lives in at the very least.
The next issue after the huge lack of world building is relationship building for me. Who is in the harem? I felt like we rushed through names and since we don't get super clear connections right away it's hard to remember. We get rushed relationships which is fine because it's the and possible fated mates but still make it believable and worth our time.
The story also lacks depth. We have hard topics that are glossed over and not really given time to breath and if there is anything I can say to this author is to allow the story to breath and to sit in the story and allow tension to build. We are tackling homelessness, society problems, bullying of your peers even if you a grown adult at academy and it feels like we hurriedly brish past the uncomfortable feelings. Readers come to feel something, to feel a certain way and speeding everything up takes away that ability. I want to know these characters and who they are from their experiences and that did not happen.
Lastly, and I think this is the biggest issue and why this book series won't be for me. it was choppy and felt like it was on fast forward. Almost as if she took her outline and submitted it. We get such short scenes, and short chapters and short sentences even and it gives a huge lack of information which takes you out of the story. What are clusters? What is the societies goal? Why let the guys have a cluster if they aren't sanctioned to have one.? Does everyone who goes to the academy do so I'm a non fun manner? I mean I have probably enough questions to fill more pages that this book had.
Overall again this idea is cool but the way it's done falls flat and it had so much more potential.
April 12, 2026
Reading completely in the dark!
Couldn't really get into this book. I stopped about fifty eight percent, and I was completely lost. This is entirely reading in the dark. I couldn't tell you much if anything halfway through this book. What is a cluster? What's the system? What are the houses and what do they mean or do? I have zero idea on the world this takes place in. Or why these group clusters seem important? We have zero idea what's up with our fmc Nova? Not anything on why she is the way she is? Why is she living out of the system? It just kept going on about absolutely nothing that was really important, Nova going shopping seemed so ridiculous and not needed in a book where nothing is explained or answered? I just found it all very ridiculous
Couldn't really get into this book. I stopped about fifty eight percent, and I was completely lost. This is entirely reading in the dark. I couldn't tell you much if anything halfway through this book. What is a cluster? What's the system? What are the houses and what do they mean or do? I have zero idea on the world this takes place in. Or why these group clusters seem important? We have zero idea what's up with our fmc Nova? Not anything on why she is the way she is? Why is she living out of the system? It just kept going on about absolutely nothing that was really important, Nova going shopping seemed so ridiculous and not needed in a book where nothing is explained or answered? I just found it all very ridiculous
May 16, 2026
if this had depth it would be SOOOO GOOD.
there was little to no world building and we hardly got any information about the cluster aside from a few personality quirks. the writing was also very choppy. i am NOT saying this author used AI to write this, but it was almost like reading an AI response. very short sentences, using single words to emphasize points and sound succinct rather than explaining sentences. the issue is, all of the guys and nova talked like this in their pov. so it all sounded like the same person. like i said, no depth.
i truly did love the guys though. if they had more developed personalities, and i actually cared about the plot, i would definitely be picking up the second one. they said all the right things and treated nova like a princess, but it just didn’t have that binge factor for me to care what happens next.
this needs major editing and review and it could be really great. the potential is definitely there (i don’t regret reading this) but the execution was lacking. 3 stars overall.
there was little to no world building and we hardly got any information about the cluster aside from a few personality quirks. the writing was also very choppy. i am NOT saying this author used AI to write this, but it was almost like reading an AI response. very short sentences, using single words to emphasize points and sound succinct rather than explaining sentences. the issue is, all of the guys and nova talked like this in their pov. so it all sounded like the same person. like i said, no depth.
i truly did love the guys though. if they had more developed personalities, and i actually cared about the plot, i would definitely be picking up the second one. they said all the right things and treated nova like a princess, but it just didn’t have that binge factor for me to care what happens next.
this needs major editing and review and it could be really great. the potential is definitely there (i don’t regret reading this) but the execution was lacking. 3 stars overall.
April 3, 2026
DNF
I got 50 percent through the story and still had no idea what the plot even was. No explanation of what the heck everyone was going about or what the background is as far as plot
I got 50 percent through the story and still had no idea what the plot even was. No explanation of what the heck everyone was going about or what the background is as far as plot
June 3, 2026
Long review. DNF 69% this book is overly in the “reading in the dark” section and I can’t stand it. I have so many questions, and feel confused. The writing is choppy and the timelines don’t seem to really line up. There is indication two weeks has passed, then another two weeks after a situation, but then there is wording right around where I DNF implying it’s only been two weeks again. It wouldn’t make sense she would only just recently be going to the cafeteria because the guys have gone with her to every class except that one originally that was at the end of the day twice a week. Therefore it would make sense she would have been going to the cafeteria this entire time given how much it’s implied they care for her eating. I also hated how the passing of time would be so abrupt for example one of the last moments in regards to this I highlighted they were walking to class at the very end of one chapter and then sitting down in class at the start of the next chapter and then several pages in while still in that class it indicates it’s actually been several days since that scene of them walking into class??? This is a reoccurring theme for time movement. I think this book is lacking a ton of detail, aside from general information for you to be able to understand the stakes, but also simple things like more bonding at dinner, maybe show she actually showered and how relieving that would feel after so long on the streets? Why did T need that internship so badly what will he do now? (That potentially gets answered had I kept reading the book, but it feels like that could have been a good “bonding” moment for everyone or a way to show he’s actually invested in their cluster/her??) why do we care about the characters? Why has she been hiding since 11? If that group is such a problem why are they not test subjects or taken out already? How do they have so much money? The FMC is shown to be very careful and implies in the early chapters that she’s pretty smart yet she doesn’t even ask them questions in the slightest about themselves or why they might think they are all housed together? Someone who has known to always stay hidden and avoid specific clothed individuals on the street isn’t going to ask a single fucking question about who anyone is or whats up with this or that? Shouldn’t she want all the details ASAP to understand the best way to GTFO entirely?? I skim TW’s and I saw touch aversion on there and I am very disappointed with how that has been written if it’s the FMC with that issue (but we dont know the MMC’s at freaking all by 69% so who knows who is supposed to be against it I suppose…) I’m getting irritated writing this review I have to tap out and use this energy to find a better book. Two stars for holding my attention for so long even though I questioned myself and the author every single chapter.
After reading other reviews before committing to DNF I feel more confident in my decision as all of my complaints are mentioned as well in other reviews (both finished & dnf ones.) I wish I could agree with the “so much potential” opinions but I genuinely feel this book is lacking so much information that I cannot imagine how the book could potentially be if it was better because WHAT THE ACTUAL F IS THE PLOT??? There is reading in the dark and then there is this book that forces you to live in the ether surrounded by nothingness where it is so completely dark that using brail to read this book still wouldn’t shine enough light to give you even a hint of understanding.
After reading other reviews before committing to DNF I feel more confident in my decision as all of my complaints are mentioned as well in other reviews (both finished & dnf ones.) I wish I could agree with the “so much potential” opinions but I genuinely feel this book is lacking so much information that I cannot imagine how the book could potentially be if it was better because WHAT THE ACTUAL F IS THE PLOT??? There is reading in the dark and then there is this book that forces you to live in the ether surrounded by nothingness where it is so completely dark that using brail to read this book still wouldn’t shine enough light to give you even a hint of understanding.
May 17, 2026
Dnf at 60%
Read reviews that there is zero world building- those reviews are being kind. There are zero details at all. Honestly this reads like a novella instead of a full length book, there are so little details & nothing NOTHING is explained.
Is this supernatural? Magic? Fantasy? Real life? No idea.
It starts off really quickly when the FMC - living in an alleyway for like 15 years (homeless) is picked up & taken in for assessment. Assessment for what? Is it normal for citizens of wherever she is to be picked up? We aren't told.
She's asked maybe 3 questions, her wrists & legs are looked at for any mark (there arent any) and she sits in a room for 3-4 days.
She refuses to eat - not because she fears her 3 meals a day is drugged, no it's something else but never explained.
We aren't told of the significance of having a mark or not having a mark either..
1 lady who questioned her before tells the FMC she's going to an academy- what kind of academy? We aren't told.
To be placed with a group or cluster.....
“A grouping. It happens sometimes—certain individuals show markers that suggest they should be grouped together. It’s rare, but documented. You’re showing those markers.”
What markers? No blood was taken by the FMC to be tested. She was legit asked like 3 questions, 1 being her name.
We are led to believe that the FMC has zero choice in this & must go.
The only thing that makes me think that this is some sort of magical something, is when the FMC is walking up to the house where her "cluster" (her 5 guy harem) live- they feel a pull or a hook in their chest , telling them she's near. That's it.
We arent shown much of school, classes, . We are told that some students have marks, 1 guy had 2 but we aren't told what they stand for or what they do.
We aren't told what the guys do, like how do they make money? At 1 point they send the fmc to get clothing & a spa treatment with all of their credit cards but nothing is ever said on how they have so much money..
Now & then 1 of the guys will make a comment about the fmc like "she doesn't know". Doesn't know what? Or it's inferred that her cluster of men are dangerous but yet 1 of them has a thankless job with an evil boss that treats him like shit. No idea,what the job is- the mmc's inner monologue thinks about having to take so much bullshit from his boss for the past 2 years. So I don't know
Eventually the FMC gets bullied-i guess? Ms living on the streets for 15 years cant handle being told that she doesn't belong at the school?
So she just leaves- walks right out & goes back to living in her alley way. What?? So she could've left at any time- this made zero sense.
I kinda started skimming at this point. But I didn't see any thing to do with magic up to that point. Nothing explained about why the fmc was homeless, why she HAD to be placed with those men.
Why they all feel a pull towards her. It had a good premise but being 100% honest it was boring as hell - and I love a big harem with 5 guys! I was intrigued by the premise. But nothing, I do mean nothing happened.
Read reviews that there is zero world building- those reviews are being kind. There are zero details at all. Honestly this reads like a novella instead of a full length book, there are so little details & nothing NOTHING is explained.
Is this supernatural? Magic? Fantasy? Real life? No idea.
It starts off really quickly when the FMC - living in an alleyway for like 15 years (homeless) is picked up & taken in for assessment. Assessment for what? Is it normal for citizens of wherever she is to be picked up? We aren't told.
She's asked maybe 3 questions, her wrists & legs are looked at for any mark (there arent any) and she sits in a room for 3-4 days.
She refuses to eat - not because she fears her 3 meals a day is drugged, no it's something else but never explained.
We aren't told of the significance of having a mark or not having a mark either..
1 lady who questioned her before tells the FMC she's going to an academy- what kind of academy? We aren't told.
To be placed with a group or cluster.....
“A grouping. It happens sometimes—certain individuals show markers that suggest they should be grouped together. It’s rare, but documented. You’re showing those markers.”
What markers? No blood was taken by the FMC to be tested. She was legit asked like 3 questions, 1 being her name.
We are led to believe that the FMC has zero choice in this & must go.
The only thing that makes me think that this is some sort of magical something, is when the FMC is walking up to the house where her "cluster" (her 5 guy harem) live- they feel a pull or a hook in their chest , telling them she's near. That's it.
We arent shown much of school, classes, . We are told that some students have marks, 1 guy had 2 but we aren't told what they stand for or what they do.
We aren't told what the guys do, like how do they make money? At 1 point they send the fmc to get clothing & a spa treatment with all of their credit cards but nothing is ever said on how they have so much money..
Now & then 1 of the guys will make a comment about the fmc like "she doesn't know". Doesn't know what? Or it's inferred that her cluster of men are dangerous but yet 1 of them has a thankless job with an evil boss that treats him like shit. No idea,what the job is- the mmc's inner monologue thinks about having to take so much bullshit from his boss for the past 2 years. So I don't know
Eventually the FMC gets bullied-i guess? Ms living on the streets for 15 years cant handle being told that she doesn't belong at the school?
So she just leaves- walks right out & goes back to living in her alley way. What?? So she could've left at any time- this made zero sense.
I kinda started skimming at this point. But I didn't see any thing to do with magic up to that point. Nothing explained about why the fmc was homeless, why she HAD to be placed with those men.
Why they all feel a pull towards her. It had a good premise but being 100% honest it was boring as hell - and I love a big harem with 5 guys! I was intrigued by the premise. But nothing, I do mean nothing happened.
May 8, 2026
Damn, this has so much fucking potential!!
I just have no fucking clue what’s going on. There was absolutely no world building whatsoever. As the readers were just dropped in the middle of this and we get no answers. We’re just pulled along in the story and we cultivate so many questions but get no answers. And no, it’s not like when an author does it cause they’re just shit at writing. This author feels like she’s doing it on purpose. She wants the mystery. She wants us to keep us in the dark. She wants us to yearn for more, she wants us to know the secrets. And not in a cheap way just to get us to read book two, but in a cool weird way that doesn’t make me angry and it does work. Because I do want the answers and I will read book 2.
Book 2 can go in two different directions. It can either start giving us answers and just keep building on all this amazing potential. Or it can go completely south in the author doesn’t give us any answers and it just goes downhill.
I am really hoping that it goes in the good direction.
I have so many questions and I’m really intrigued. I can’t wait for a book too, and I’m gonna read it right now.
And the only reason I didn’t give it five stars was because of me having so many questions that were unanswered. But not at all because of the writing or the characters or anything like that.
I just have no fucking clue what’s going on. There was absolutely no world building whatsoever. As the readers were just dropped in the middle of this and we get no answers. We’re just pulled along in the story and we cultivate so many questions but get no answers. And no, it’s not like when an author does it cause they’re just shit at writing. This author feels like she’s doing it on purpose. She wants the mystery. She wants us to keep us in the dark. She wants us to yearn for more, she wants us to know the secrets. And not in a cheap way just to get us to read book two, but in a cool weird way that doesn’t make me angry and it does work. Because I do want the answers and I will read book 2.
Book 2 can go in two different directions. It can either start giving us answers and just keep building on all this amazing potential. Or it can go completely south in the author doesn’t give us any answers and it just goes downhill.
I am really hoping that it goes in the good direction.
I have so many questions and I’m really intrigued. I can’t wait for a book too, and I’m gonna read it right now.
And the only reason I didn’t give it five stars was because of me having so many questions that were unanswered. But not at all because of the writing or the characters or anything like that.
May 27, 2026
I don't know what it is....
But this book pissed me off more than it intrigued me. At the start of the book, it feels as if we were dropped 3 or 4 chapters in with no backstory. I have no idea what this book is even about. It's it about humans with shifter attributes? Is it about paranormal, like witches, aliens, ghosts, etc.?
The author talks about the "Houses" as if we should already know what they are. There is no explanation. How many houses are there? What even ARE the houses? What attributes do each house exhibit? We got none of that. Then they talk about the houses again as if we are supposed to know what they are and how they operate. Its so all over the place.
The character building is mid at best. One minute she's done street smart woman because ya know, she's been on the streets for 15 years. Then all of a sudden she had no idea how to handle any form of inconvenience. She acts like a teenager even though she is 26 years old. If was seriously grating on my nerves.
Now let's talk about her men. I enjoyed that they all have their own schtick, but the writing for those specific personality traits aren't consistent. Then another issue I have is (bringing me back to incomplete storytelling or world building) WHAT FRICKIN HOUSES DO THEY BELONG TO?!?! We just keep hearing that the cluster was formed by men from all different houses. Which leads me back to my original question, HOW MANY FLIPPIN HOUSES ARE THERE?! There are so many holes and not enough plugs to fill them.
Ugh, this is my biggest pet peeves because this could have been a PHENOMENAL book. 😒🤦🏽♀️
But this book pissed me off more than it intrigued me. At the start of the book, it feels as if we were dropped 3 or 4 chapters in with no backstory. I have no idea what this book is even about. It's it about humans with shifter attributes? Is it about paranormal, like witches, aliens, ghosts, etc.?
The author talks about the "Houses" as if we should already know what they are. There is no explanation. How many houses are there? What even ARE the houses? What attributes do each house exhibit? We got none of that. Then they talk about the houses again as if we are supposed to know what they are and how they operate. Its so all over the place.
The character building is mid at best. One minute she's done street smart woman because ya know, she's been on the streets for 15 years. Then all of a sudden she had no idea how to handle any form of inconvenience. She acts like a teenager even though she is 26 years old. If was seriously grating on my nerves.
Now let's talk about her men. I enjoyed that they all have their own schtick, but the writing for those specific personality traits aren't consistent. Then another issue I have is (bringing me back to incomplete storytelling or world building) WHAT FRICKIN HOUSES DO THEY BELONG TO?!?! We just keep hearing that the cluster was formed by men from all different houses. Which leads me back to my original question, HOW MANY FLIPPIN HOUSES ARE THERE?! There are so many holes and not enough plugs to fill them.
Ugh, this is my biggest pet peeves because this could have been a PHENOMENAL book. 😒🤦🏽♀️
June 1, 2026
2⭐️ - what was that
May 31, 2026
I really liked the premise of this book, but there was a huge lack of world building. I kept waiting to get to the part where it explained the marks, the houses, powers etc. But it never came. I'm hoping there is more information and world building in the second book about what all these things mean.
Edit to add official review posted on my blog
Destiny is a story about... well, honestly, I don’t even know how to explain this book. It was deeply addicting, while also lacking an insane amount of information. Destiny follows FMC Nova, who has avoided getting noticed by the system for over 20 years. She has no mark, no house, and no family. Until one day the system flags her and she ends up at an Academy in a cluster and home with five other men. Nova is an anomaly at the Academy, and when a sixth man is drawn to their cluster, the system takes deeper notice and starts asking questions.
Now, my review..
The positives:
-This book was deeply addictive, and I found myself wanting to not set it down.
-The FMC and six MMCs were fun characters to read about.
-The book left on a great cliff hanger, I immediately preordered the next two books.
-FMC Nova was an easy character for me to relate to. She is someone who never felt like she belonged anywhere. That is until she met her men, who make her feel like they walk this earth solely for her.
The negatives:
-This book was absurdly vague. The beginning of the story drops you right in, which I liked a lot. But, I kept waiting to learn more about the marks, the houses, the system, and that information just never came. By the end of this book I was deeply confused about the entire magic system. My biggest complaint is that there is just no context.
-The reverse harem trope was fun, but the six men were not unique enough for me to differentiate them. I kept getting confused on who was who, which I found to be a little frustrating at times.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Destiny. I do wish there was much more world building and context, but I am hoping this is something that we are given in the second book Chosen. If this book had more world building it could have easily been a four or five star for me. I love these characters and am excited to read more about them in the next book.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Edit to add official review posted on my blog
Destiny is a story about... well, honestly, I don’t even know how to explain this book. It was deeply addicting, while also lacking an insane amount of information. Destiny follows FMC Nova, who has avoided getting noticed by the system for over 20 years. She has no mark, no house, and no family. Until one day the system flags her and she ends up at an Academy in a cluster and home with five other men. Nova is an anomaly at the Academy, and when a sixth man is drawn to their cluster, the system takes deeper notice and starts asking questions.
Now, my review..
The positives:
-This book was deeply addictive, and I found myself wanting to not set it down.
-The FMC and six MMCs were fun characters to read about.
-The book left on a great cliff hanger, I immediately preordered the next two books.
-FMC Nova was an easy character for me to relate to. She is someone who never felt like she belonged anywhere. That is until she met her men, who make her feel like they walk this earth solely for her.
The negatives:
-This book was absurdly vague. The beginning of the story drops you right in, which I liked a lot. But, I kept waiting to learn more about the marks, the houses, the system, and that information just never came. By the end of this book I was deeply confused about the entire magic system. My biggest complaint is that there is just no context.
-The reverse harem trope was fun, but the six men were not unique enough for me to differentiate them. I kept getting confused on who was who, which I found to be a little frustrating at times.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Destiny. I do wish there was much more world building and context, but I am hoping this is something that we are given in the second book Chosen. If this book had more world building it could have easily been a four or five star for me. I love these characters and am excited to read more about them in the next book.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
May 2, 2026
3.75⭐
Better than expected with plenty of potential, but there's definitely room for improvement.
While the premise shows promise, the world-building felt significantly underdeveloped. The concepts are far too vague; there’s a noticeable lack of concrete definitions for the "system" or the "cluster", making it unclear why the protagonists are considered anomaly. I spent a large chunk of the book in a state of confusion, forced to guess the mechanics of the world. I truly hope the author fleshes out these missing pieces and adds more depth to the leads' backstories and personalities in the upcoming installments.
On to the parts I actually loved:
Instead of the typical injured bird trope, the fmc feels more like a wary stray cat who has spent years on the streets before being "forcefully adopted" into a new family. The way the mmcs treat her is a pitch-perfect mirror of owners tentatively approaching a cat that’s still hissing at them. That scene where the mmcs were all huddled by the window, peeking out as she first arrived at their home? Absolutely adorable.
I also appreciated how the author handled the caretaking aspect. Refreshingly, the mmcs aren't the overbearing alpha types who express affection through possessive growling. Instead, they approach the fmc with a mature, intimate, yet respectful distance, allowing her to slowly lower her guard.
If you enjoy found family vibes and character-driven interactions, this is definitely worth a read despite the thin world-building.
Better than expected with plenty of potential, but there's definitely room for improvement.
While the premise shows promise, the world-building felt significantly underdeveloped. The concepts are far too vague; there’s a noticeable lack of concrete definitions for the "system" or the "cluster", making it unclear why the protagonists are considered anomaly. I spent a large chunk of the book in a state of confusion, forced to guess the mechanics of the world. I truly hope the author fleshes out these missing pieces and adds more depth to the leads' backstories and personalities in the upcoming installments.
On to the parts I actually loved:
Instead of the typical injured bird trope, the fmc feels more like a wary stray cat who has spent years on the streets before being "forcefully adopted" into a new family. The way the mmcs treat her is a pitch-perfect mirror of owners tentatively approaching a cat that’s still hissing at them. That scene where the mmcs were all huddled by the window, peeking out as she first arrived at their home? Absolutely adorable.
I also appreciated how the author handled the caretaking aspect. Refreshingly, the mmcs aren't the overbearing alpha types who express affection through possessive growling. Instead, they approach the fmc with a mature, intimate, yet respectful distance, allowing her to slowly lower her guard.
If you enjoy found family vibes and character-driven interactions, this is definitely worth a read despite the thin world-building.
May 12, 2026
Ok, ok, enough of all the hate. One thing that absolutely drives me crazy is over explaining of EVERY LITTLE DETAIL in books. I enjoy when I get to create the world in my own head as I read, because sometimes the over explaining can be confusing and/or will somehow be different as the story goes on. Like the author forgot the FMCs room was purple in book one and spontaneously made it pink in book two. When it’s “open to interpretation “ I get to make it my own and see it how my mind creates it. (I was confused in book 1 that I didn’t get a play by play of every time the FMC took a shower, or everything she ate… but I was also happy I didn’t have to get through the unnecessary text to the real story). Yes I see the stories I read like a movie… thought everyone did. Anywho, I would have liked a bit of preface of what the world is. There’s a governing body of sorts in the Order, separate houses I assume govern themselves under the Order, and seems they are all segregated and live and mate in their own houses. That’s the vibe I get anyway. BUT the individual characters inner monologue gives you what you’re really reading the story for. Their insecurities, thoughts, feelings, and desires. That’s the real meat of any story. And these books are very well written. The characters are mid 20s so that’s also a HUGE plus. There’s no weird angst between the characters because someone forgot to shut the toilet lid so now the fmc is going to run away… there’s no weird bullying “you’re gonna pay for this” even tho the person speaking is literally the problem. No OW drama, matter of fact the only other major character to watch has developed a friendship with the FMC and her harem. It’s refreshing! And mature! And the “harem falls first”, I’m here for that! No weird hold out of one person because of something in his past that really wasn’t as major as they make it out to be. No over the top emotional outbursts and someone running off only to fall into danger. This story is refreshing and honestly I haven’t read anything like it before. The story line is captivating and literally dragged me for two days as soon as I started book 1. So, while I get everything isn’t for everyone, this book is definitely up my alley! If nothing else check it out. Push through book 1 and just take the story as it comes. You will get more information as it progresses. And create the world the way you want it! Giving it 5 million ⭐️ Happy Reading Friends!
April 28, 2026
The writing is great. Refreshingly great.
It’s quick and concise yet deep and real.
The story is interesting enough to distract from the nagging fact that we have no idea what’s going on.
None.
It’s truly admirable.
I don’t think I’ve ever read anything with less world building.
You could tell me they live on a potato and I’d believe it.
She really had to go out of her way to be this vague.
People have marks but I’m unsure if they’re magic, what they do, or what they mean.
I’m don’t even know where they come from, really.
They only mentioned ‘memory,’ ‘dream,’ and ‘reverie.’
No clue.
It’s like it’s meant as a designation, but then it sounds like they’re districts?
But it’s markings they’re apparently born with, so that’s unclear.
They talk about the system flagging them, but that could quite literally mean anything.
Then there’s a Nightmare Order.
No points for guessing who the bad guys are.
Unfortunately, now that you’ve heard the name, we both know the same amount about them.
The spice is only alright. I was more excited for it to be utilized as a plot device and grant us some answers.
I was unfortunately left with more questions.
The ending is exciting but just as elusive as the rest.
I have barely an inkling of what type of world, society, or potential magical expectations are in place.
Whatever.
I’ve already preordered the next one.
It’s quick and concise yet deep and real.
The story is interesting enough to distract from the nagging fact that we have no idea what’s going on.
None.
It’s truly admirable.
I don’t think I’ve ever read anything with less world building.
You could tell me they live on a potato and I’d believe it.
She really had to go out of her way to be this vague.
People have marks but I’m unsure if they’re magic, what they do, or what they mean.
I’m don’t even know where they come from, really.
They only mentioned ‘memory,’ ‘dream,’ and ‘reverie.’
No clue.
It’s like it’s meant as a designation, but then it sounds like they’re districts?
But it’s markings they’re apparently born with, so that’s unclear.
They talk about the system flagging them, but that could quite literally mean anything.
Then there’s a Nightmare Order.
No points for guessing who the bad guys are.
Unfortunately, now that you’ve heard the name, we both know the same amount about them.
The spice is only alright. I was more excited for it to be utilized as a plot device and grant us some answers.
I was unfortunately left with more questions.
The ending is exciting but just as elusive as the rest.
I have barely an inkling of what type of world, society, or potential magical expectations are in place.
Whatever.
I’ve already preordered the next one.
April 9, 2026
𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥
I'm giving 4 ⭐️ because the story and unanswered questions peaked my interest, and I didn't necessarily dislike what I read.
There is an obvious lack of world-building and in-depth dive into the characters in this first installment, but the foundations for further development are definitely there. Readers are given small tidbits of information, such as mates being sorted by a system and a group of mates forming what's called a cluster, but not too much information expanding on this. For example, why doesn't the FL have a mark, and why does her cluster seem to be a problem? I'm hoping this is due to the short length of this first book and that information will be more fleshed out in later installments.
Since the story revolves around mates, the relationship dynamic between the main male characters and the main female character forms fairly quickly. Basically insta-love, but with a bit of caution on the FMC's side due to her past history of being alone on the streets. So far, the MMCs are less developed than the FMC, so hopefully, there'll be more to learn about them in later installments as well.
I'm giving 4 ⭐️ because the story and unanswered questions peaked my interest, and I didn't necessarily dislike what I read.
There is an obvious lack of world-building and in-depth dive into the characters in this first installment, but the foundations for further development are definitely there. Readers are given small tidbits of information, such as mates being sorted by a system and a group of mates forming what's called a cluster, but not too much information expanding on this. For example, why doesn't the FL have a mark, and why does her cluster seem to be a problem? I'm hoping this is due to the short length of this first book and that information will be more fleshed out in later installments.
Since the story revolves around mates, the relationship dynamic between the main male characters and the main female character forms fairly quickly. Basically insta-love, but with a bit of caution on the FMC's side due to her past history of being alone on the streets. So far, the MMCs are less developed than the FMC, so hopefully, there'll be more to learn about them in later installments as well.
June 8, 2026
I started Destiny with very high expectations because the blurb sounded really interesting, but unfortunately the book felt unfinished to me from the very beginning.
The world-building, magic system, houses and marks were not explained clearly enough. Even around 80% into the book, I still had too many questions about the system, the FMC’s past, her parents and why everything was happening. A lot of information felt scattered and random rather than properly developed.
The relationships also did not work for me. The bonds felt more like instant connections than something with real emotional development. Another MMC appeared very suddenly and was brought into the group almost like it was nothing, even though it should have felt like a much bigger moment. By the end, I still did not feel emotionally connected to the characters or like I really knew them.
The academy setting was also disappointing because there was barely any actual academy dynamic. I expected professors, classes and more structure, but there was very little of that.
Overall, the idea had a lot of potential, but the execution felt rushed and empty. I was excited for the book, but sadly it left me disappointed.
The world-building, magic system, houses and marks were not explained clearly enough. Even around 80% into the book, I still had too many questions about the system, the FMC’s past, her parents and why everything was happening. A lot of information felt scattered and random rather than properly developed.
The relationships also did not work for me. The bonds felt more like instant connections than something with real emotional development. Another MMC appeared very suddenly and was brought into the group almost like it was nothing, even though it should have felt like a much bigger moment. By the end, I still did not feel emotionally connected to the characters or like I really knew them.
The academy setting was also disappointing because there was barely any actual academy dynamic. I expected professors, classes and more structure, but there was very little of that.
Overall, the idea had a lot of potential, but the execution felt rushed and empty. I was excited for the book, but sadly it left me disappointed.
April 13, 2026
I really like this book.
I loved the characters and the building of the story. I feel like it can really be one of those that I can go back to because it’s different and kind of refreshing in a way. These men who are not supposed to form a bond do and they wait years for the FMC. Which melts my heart. They accept her right off the bat and are trying to help her as much as possible with it being rushed which I freaking love. The thing I’m not certain of is this a dystopian, paranormal, or a fantasy to me it’s almost a mix of it all. It doesn’t explain the world really at all other than the different locations. No one else has seem to use any magic or anything but towards the end it starts to, idk that part is confusing. Also when they are explaining things it’s seems to be over analyzing or over describing stuff which personally I’ve never been to fond of. An explain is “searching, looking, finding” to me It just seems add space that doesn’t need to be there. Truly I’m excited for the series to see where it goes. It’s definitely a 3 star for me.
I loved the characters and the building of the story. I feel like it can really be one of those that I can go back to because it’s different and kind of refreshing in a way. These men who are not supposed to form a bond do and they wait years for the FMC. Which melts my heart. They accept her right off the bat and are trying to help her as much as possible with it being rushed which I freaking love. The thing I’m not certain of is this a dystopian, paranormal, or a fantasy to me it’s almost a mix of it all. It doesn’t explain the world really at all other than the different locations. No one else has seem to use any magic or anything but towards the end it starts to, idk that part is confusing. Also when they are explaining things it’s seems to be over analyzing or over describing stuff which personally I’ve never been to fond of. An explain is “searching, looking, finding” to me It just seems add space that doesn’t need to be there. Truly I’m excited for the series to see where it goes. It’s definitely a 3 star for me.
May 20, 2026
Misfits
Paranormal, reverse harem, bonds, academy. This is a fairly good story, but almost irritating. There is absolutely NO world description which is just unnecessary. The reader is dumped into an undescribed society where we meet Nova living as a homeless 26 year old in alleys. She's detained by the undefined authorities where we learn she doesn't have the mark on her wrist that everyone else is born with. She has holes in her memory and has no "house" whatever that is. Without explanation she's dropped off at an Academy where other members of her "cluster" have been waiting for her. Sixteen years of social isolation has led to her severs trust issues and it takes a while for her to build a relationship with the men in her cluster. Meantime the evil Nightmare Authority has its eyes on her. If you can make stuff up to fill in the social contexts you may enjoy this first in series.
Paranormal, reverse harem, bonds, academy. This is a fairly good story, but almost irritating. There is absolutely NO world description which is just unnecessary. The reader is dumped into an undescribed society where we meet Nova living as a homeless 26 year old in alleys. She's detained by the undefined authorities where we learn she doesn't have the mark on her wrist that everyone else is born with. She has holes in her memory and has no "house" whatever that is. Without explanation she's dropped off at an Academy where other members of her "cluster" have been waiting for her. Sixteen years of social isolation has led to her severs trust issues and it takes a while for her to build a relationship with the men in her cluster. Meantime the evil Nightmare Authority has its eyes on her. If you can make stuff up to fill in the social contexts you may enjoy this first in series.
May 22, 2026
I've been in a reading slump for like a month now, not that this year has been any better, I have more dnfs that I can count. But this book, oh this book was incredible, I loved every single part. Was it perfect of course not. But the story is so captivating that I was at the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next books. Hopefully each character voice is more clearly because I had to keep looking at whose chapter was because they all sounded alike but other that that and the repetitive phrase "Nobody argues". It was perfect.
Can't get enough of it. I'm jumping into book 2 because that cliffhanger was no joke.
I just hope there are more series in this universe because it's really interesting, and we barely have any explanation of the houses, bonds and marks and everything else. Not to mention powers and such. Maybe Zoe and her cluster. Or hopefully all the clusters including Silas', I know he's evil but give me a good vilain and some dark romance.
Can't get enough of it. I'm jumping into book 2 because that cliffhanger was no joke.
I just hope there are more series in this universe because it's really interesting, and we barely have any explanation of the houses, bonds and marks and everything else. Not to mention powers and such. Maybe Zoe and her cluster. Or hopefully all the clusters including Silas', I know he's evil but give me a good vilain and some dark romance.
June 9, 2026
While I acknowledge the lack of depth and world building I have to say that the writing style was beautiful and for me unique. It sucked me in in a way a lot of books have failed to especially recently and for that I love it.
I just finished this one and I am so eager to get into the next one 🥹
I especially loved that the author did not focus on how "hot" or "sexually irresistible" the male leads, like yes it was mentioned but not in the over-done manner seen in a lot of books and yes there were a good number of plot holes and very minimal explanation of the magic system, but I have to say that this has successfully made its way to my top 5 reads of 2026.
So thank you CEECEE CROWS for finallyyyy pulling me out of my biggest reading slump yet
I am officially a fan!!!!
I just finished this one and I am so eager to get into the next one 🥹
I especially loved that the author did not focus on how "hot" or "sexually irresistible" the male leads, like yes it was mentioned but not in the over-done manner seen in a lot of books and yes there were a good number of plot holes and very minimal explanation of the magic system, but I have to say that this has successfully made its way to my top 5 reads of 2026.
So thank you CEECEE CROWS for finallyyyy pulling me out of my biggest reading slump yet
I am officially a fan!!!!
March 18, 2026
I was pleasantly surprised by how engaging this book turned out to be. I went into this book mostly blind and was honestly hooked from the start. I saw some other reviews saying that the world-building wasn't very great, and wow, I can understand where they're coming from. I don't think that the main focus of the story is supposed to be on the world. Was really intrigued by all of the relationships formed, platonic or not, throughout the story. I do think some characters should have a little more time to shine. I was honestly sad when the book ended, and I found out the second one isn't out yet. Overall, it was really entertaining. Easy to read. Kind of good time.
May 18, 2026
i dont understand the universe
So the writing is good and the characters are interesting, but I’ve sort of lost the plot since the universe wasn’t explained.
Like Nova’s reactions to things don’t seem porportionate to what’s happening around her. So when the “system” happens to her or she gets bullied, it’s all in the context of the world that is being built. But there’s no explanation as to what that world is. So it seems dramatic. But maybe its not and it’s important? I feel like even if the synopsis just had a note anout the world they lived in and the purpose of the academy that would help.
Book/series just needs more context.
So the writing is good and the characters are interesting, but I’ve sort of lost the plot since the universe wasn’t explained.
Like Nova’s reactions to things don’t seem porportionate to what’s happening around her. So when the “system” happens to her or she gets bullied, it’s all in the context of the world that is being built. But there’s no explanation as to what that world is. So it seems dramatic. But maybe its not and it’s important? I feel like even if the synopsis just had a note anout the world they lived in and the purpose of the academy that would help.
Book/series just needs more context.
May 20, 2026
Destiny- perfectly named
Nova has been a societal outcast for 15 years until one days authority figures pick her up and bring to this institution where she meets her 5 (or 6) matches. They are all drawn to each other and they care for each other like a family. The governmental system seems quite shady and they are all under the pretense this school will help them but its not really voluntary. The ending of this first book was wild 🔥 so excited to see where this goes! I really enjoyed this book, but i think if it had a bit more contact and background on the government and system in general it nake things a little easier to understand.
Book: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice: 2/5 🌶
Nova has been a societal outcast for 15 years until one days authority figures pick her up and bring to this institution where she meets her 5 (or 6) matches. They are all drawn to each other and they care for each other like a family. The governmental system seems quite shady and they are all under the pretense this school will help them but its not really voluntary. The ending of this first book was wild 🔥 so excited to see where this goes! I really enjoyed this book, but i think if it had a bit more contact and background on the government and system in general it nake things a little easier to understand.
Book: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice: 2/5 🌶
June 22, 2026
DNF at 67%. I thought this sounded so interesting and it could have been a fantastic book however the execution was great and it had massive issues.
Over halfway through the book and I still had no idea what was going on in this world other than that there are “houses”. I couldn’t tell you what the houses are or what makes each house unique. We were given no world building whatsoever which made it hard to understand the FMCs actions and rationale for why things were happening!
The MMCs weren’t introduced well either. I struggled to differentiate between them and their personalities.
The sentences were also a bit weird. There was a lot of one word sentences or very short sentences.
Over halfway through the book and I still had no idea what was going on in this world other than that there are “houses”. I couldn’t tell you what the houses are or what makes each house unique. We were given no world building whatsoever which made it hard to understand the FMCs actions and rationale for why things were happening!
The MMCs weren’t introduced well either. I struggled to differentiate between them and their personalities.
The sentences were also a bit weird. There was a lot of one word sentences or very short sentences.
April 19, 2026
intrigued
This book definitely has me intrigued- the one downside (and why I only have it 4 stars) is that you’re dropped in this world with no explanation for how anything works. It talks about houses, a system, territories, clusters, marks - but gives no frame of reference. And while I know sometimes those details are revealed organically through a story - by the end of the first book I still know nothing. Are clusters good or bad, what is the system (is it a what or who), what do the marks mean, etc etc
But I am interested and will definitely read the next book.
This book definitely has me intrigued- the one downside (and why I only have it 4 stars) is that you’re dropped in this world with no explanation for how anything works. It talks about houses, a system, territories, clusters, marks - but gives no frame of reference. And while I know sometimes those details are revealed organically through a story - by the end of the first book I still know nothing. Are clusters good or bad, what is the system (is it a what or who), what do the marks mean, etc etc
But I am interested and will definitely read the next book.
Read
May 31, 2026This may have been good if I had any clue at all about what the heck is even happening. But even though I finished the entire thing, I still have no clue. What are clusters? What are the marks even for? What is the nightmare order? Are there other orders? Why do those 2 guys hate this girl? Like seriously, what even is the plot? I’m so confused and unfortunately I don’t care enough about any of these characters after an entire book to continue the series without someone convincing me that it makes sense pretty early in book 2 😫
March 30, 2026
perfeito!! achei que teria um problema ali com os parceiros dela, mas todos acolheram ela tão bem que me deixou de coração quentinho, eles não tiveram rancor sobre levar tanto tempo pra ela aparecer, como sabemos que acontece na maioria dos livros, eles não a julgaram,enrolei tanto pra ler por ser um lançamento recente, me tirou da ressaca, queria ter sido forte e ter conseguido esperar até o próximo lançamento.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2026
This book had a lot of potential but left a lot lacking. There is 0 world building, virtually nothing is explained. The main premise of the story is not explained, nothing about the marks and the houses they associate with along with clusters and anything relating to it. If this was all explained in the book it would have added more depth and understanding and would have rated this book higher, felt like 2 stars was generous.
June 9, 2026
2.5 stars rounded up
There was next to no world building or character developments. The writing seemed clipped and awkward, but I kinda liked it. The concept was simple enough to grasp, but I just wish the magic systems and houses were given more detail. Also character details seemed very basic. Vaelor likes to cook. Locke likes to fight. Rane talks a lot. Beckett barely talks. Etc. Not bad overall, but I would've liked to have more.
There was next to no world building or character developments. The writing seemed clipped and awkward, but I kinda liked it. The concept was simple enough to grasp, but I just wish the magic systems and houses were given more detail. Also character details seemed very basic. Vaelor likes to cook. Locke likes to fight. Rane talks a lot. Beckett barely talks. Etc. Not bad overall, but I would've liked to have more.
June 14, 2026
interesting Premise…
This was a fun read. Love the characters and the slow burn (pun intended, iykyk) but am missing some clarity in the world building department. I would have liked some background or lore on the marks on the wrist? I won’t say more to avoid spoilers but I find at the end of book one that I am probably as behind as Nova is on the history of this world. Epic cliffhanger. Can’t wait to dive into book 2!
This was a fun read. Love the characters and the slow burn (pun intended, iykyk) but am missing some clarity in the world building department. I would have liked some background or lore on the marks on the wrist? I won’t say more to avoid spoilers but I find at the end of book one that I am probably as behind as Nova is on the history of this world. Epic cliffhanger. Can’t wait to dive into book 2!
June 26, 2026
I’m confused.
This one started out quite strong with some interesting world building but then none of it was explained or fully fleshed out. What are the houses? What do they mean? What is the point of the academy? There were so many things that were introduced but never explained and it left me very confused. This book needed to be 3-4 times longer with WAY more world building and character development.
This one started out quite strong with some interesting world building but then none of it was explained or fully fleshed out. What are the houses? What do they mean? What is the point of the academy? There were so many things that were introduced but never explained and it left me very confused. This book needed to be 3-4 times longer with WAY more world building and character development.
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