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Creatures on a Half Shell
- GenresOmegaverseMonsters
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2026
About the author
Dakota Cockaday
35 books110 followersDakota Cockaday is the pen name of the most unexciting woman in the world. Dakota loves paranormal and true crime podcasts, romance books about aliens, and chicken tamales. She always wants to pet your dog or see pictures of your cat. Dakota hoards blank notebooks like it’s her job. She has no spare time, so she writes when she really should be cleaning the house. You can reach her at dakota.cockaday@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 5, 2026
This is an ARC read
This is an omegaverse story. Make sure you know what that means before reading
I loved this story. I love omegaverse stories so I could be bias, but the nostalgia this gave me. I rewatched the 90’s Ninja Turtles movies because I loved them and had the action figures as a kid.
Anyways, Mari is the FMC in this story and she is also the Omega. This story is very modern, so Mari is hustling. Girl is working nonstop just to survive, but she’s still got spirit to her. Same girl same.
Then our mutant alphas are Anson, Samuel, and Damien. Beau is the only beta and I love so much that this story gave us a beta. I really wanted more Beau in the story, but you know. Maybe in book two? Mari also loves beau and I just love watching an omega snug and get down 🍆with a beta. They are so precious together.
Just so you all know Damien is the alphahole of the story and I am not sure how Mari found it in her to be nice to him. He would have been shunned if I was in Mari’s position. Ugh. Anyways, Mari is a damn saint for letting the dude prove himself worthy of her time. Like, I love that she even put aside heat feelings to be real with the guy.
The story is fast paced. There is action of some kind happening. Mostly because Mari is always working, but the mutant alphas are also always doing their vigilante work, so they also never stop, like Mari. For most of the story this isn’t an issue and when things get like punchy-punchy type of heated it’s still working. It does feel like a set-up and the alphas do mention that it seemed too easy to rescue their friends.
I am reading that ending as I’ll get more info in the next book and that it’s intentionally left kind of vague for a reason. Thing though like Mari’s apartment, the turtles living space, the villain headquarters, even the city from walking Misty all seems clearly laid out. Like, you can easily feel like your part of the story.
Mari and Samuel are the tightest even though Anson is like king alpha of the group. I really liked this dynamic because it made Anson feel like a real leader because he wasn’t insecure about not leading or presenting as true alpha. I also really love his personality. He was very playful.
The story is about them all finding each other and making their pack work or learning how to be a pack with an omega, really. The thing that gets in their way is this evil villain. Like in the movies they had the foot and here we just have Erika. I hate the lady. She’s the bad guy and honestly, she’s like obsessed with the alphas to a point it’s annoying. Girl, move on.
Anyways, it’s an HEA story and I was worried we’d be left with a cliffhanger. We kind of are? The story for the pack is HEA, but for the world where the villain Erika lives it’s kind of cliffhangerish. Thank goodness for book two then. Phew!
Oh this is a spicy story and it happens because of the omegas heat, if you’re not familiar with these types of stories. Everyone is a consent king and very respectful of Mari.
This is an omegaverse story. Make sure you know what that means before reading
I loved this story. I love omegaverse stories so I could be bias, but the nostalgia this gave me. I rewatched the 90’s Ninja Turtles movies because I loved them and had the action figures as a kid.
Anyways, Mari is the FMC in this story and she is also the Omega. This story is very modern, so Mari is hustling. Girl is working nonstop just to survive, but she’s still got spirit to her. Same girl same.
Then our mutant alphas are Anson, Samuel, and Damien. Beau is the only beta and I love so much that this story gave us a beta. I really wanted more Beau in the story, but you know. Maybe in book two? Mari also loves beau and I just love watching an omega snug and get down 🍆with a beta. They are so precious together.
Just so you all know Damien is the alphahole of the story and I am not sure how Mari found it in her to be nice to him. He would have been shunned if I was in Mari’s position. Ugh. Anyways, Mari is a damn saint for letting the dude prove himself worthy of her time. Like, I love that she even put aside heat feelings to be real with the guy.
The story is fast paced. There is action of some kind happening. Mostly because Mari is always working, but the mutant alphas are also always doing their vigilante work, so they also never stop, like Mari. For most of the story this isn’t an issue and when things get like punchy-punchy type of heated it’s still working. It does feel like a set-up and the alphas do mention that it seemed too easy to rescue their friends.
I am reading that ending as I’ll get more info in the next book and that it’s intentionally left kind of vague for a reason. Thing though like Mari’s apartment, the turtles living space, the villain headquarters, even the city from walking Misty all seems clearly laid out. Like, you can easily feel like your part of the story.
Mari and Samuel are the tightest even though Anson is like king alpha of the group. I really liked this dynamic because it made Anson feel like a real leader because he wasn’t insecure about not leading or presenting as true alpha. I also really love his personality. He was very playful.
The story is about them all finding each other and making their pack work or learning how to be a pack with an omega, really. The thing that gets in their way is this evil villain. Like in the movies they had the foot and here we just have Erika. I hate the lady. She’s the bad guy and honestly, she’s like obsessed with the alphas to a point it’s annoying. Girl, move on.
Anyways, it’s an HEA story and I was worried we’d be left with a cliffhanger. We kind of are? The story for the pack is HEA, but for the world where the villain Erika lives it’s kind of cliffhangerish. Thank goodness for book two then. Phew!
Oh this is a spicy story and it happens because of the omegas heat, if you’re not familiar with these types of stories. Everyone is a consent king and very respectful of Mari.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2026
Thank you so much to Dakota Cockaday for the opportunity to read this arc. This is my personal review.
This is the first of the Welcome to the Creatureverse books written by Cockaday and is about a young woman who ends up the omega in a pack of mutant turtle men. Really sexy mutant turtle men. Really sexy mutant turtle men who want to love her and feed her and take care of her forever. Can…can I get some turtle men too?
I absolutely love the world that Cockaday has created and I cannot wait to see how she expands on it in later books. It’s honestly so creative and fun! Each of the characters in the pack (this is an omegaverse story, btw!) has a unique voice and personality that adds to the story. Between all four of the guys (and Malcolm)…it is an entire boy buffet and Cockaday has created something for everyone. I really liked Damien, even though he’s the jerk of the story. I just wanted to give him all the hugs.
This is spicy and steamy with lots of people getting it on. The fmc is having her first heat, and well…that heats things up a bit.
I’m excited for the next book in this series and to see how Cockaday grows this world. If you’re a fan of monster romance and/or omegaverse…or you’re just kinda got a thing for turtles…this is most definitely for you.
🐢🐢🐢🐢
This is the first of the Welcome to the Creatureverse books written by Cockaday and is about a young woman who ends up the omega in a pack of mutant turtle men. Really sexy mutant turtle men. Really sexy mutant turtle men who want to love her and feed her and take care of her forever. Can…can I get some turtle men too?
I absolutely love the world that Cockaday has created and I cannot wait to see how she expands on it in later books. It’s honestly so creative and fun! Each of the characters in the pack (this is an omegaverse story, btw!) has a unique voice and personality that adds to the story. Between all four of the guys (and Malcolm)…it is an entire boy buffet and Cockaday has created something for everyone. I really liked Damien, even though he’s the jerk of the story. I just wanted to give him all the hugs.
This is spicy and steamy with lots of people getting it on. The fmc is having her first heat, and well…that heats things up a bit.
I’m excited for the next book in this series and to see how Cockaday grows this world. If you’re a fan of monster romance and/or omegaverse…or you’re just kinda got a thing for turtles…this is most definitely for you.
🐢🐢🐢🐢
April 9, 2026
As always, I’m absolutely obsessed with anything Dakota Cockaday writes. She’s such a consistent and autobuy author for me. Going in I know I’m going to read a book that may have a slightly chaotic premise (like how do you come up with human mutants loosely inspired by certain turtley dudes of our youth, but make them military experiments turned vigilante protectors of the city and make it omegaverse where the omega doesn’t even know what that is and make it where everyone is brought together by a meddling doggo?! Dakota does. And I need to be bffs with her). As always, it was well-written and heartfelt with relatable swoony characters, and a chef’s kiss amount spice.
I will say, protect your mental health, friends. If you’re not in the right headspace, some of the content may be triggering. The bad dudes of this novel are corrupt military/the Feds/ICE and may be too similar to current events, so I totally get it if you can’t read about fictionalized events either. Our MMCs are soldiers turned unwilling military experiments who were rescued from the lab and forced to live underground for safety, where they now serve as vigilante protectors to the city. There’s also heavy hitter topics like food insecurity (our FMC, Mari, works several jobs and frequently skips meals in order to pay rent), lack of healthcare, being unhoused as youths/fostercare/living in shelters, terrible landlords, terrible exes, and abductions. So keep that in mind prior to reading.
Facts, Tropes, Content Warnings, etc:
-Multi POV
-Explicit Spice
-Open door group scenes
-MMMFM Omegaverse
-Fated mates
-Scent matches
-Strong, independent FMC
-Cinnamon roll alphas
-Grumpy alpha
-Federal officers committing violence against immigrants
-Government experiments on humans
-Vehicles used as weapons
-Terrible landlord
-Terrible ex
-Food insecurity
-Abduction
-Forced ovulation/heat (no actual pregnancy)
-Pregnancy scare (no actual pregnancy)
I will say, protect your mental health, friends. If you’re not in the right headspace, some of the content may be triggering. The bad dudes of this novel are corrupt military/the Feds/ICE and may be too similar to current events, so I totally get it if you can’t read about fictionalized events either. Our MMCs are soldiers turned unwilling military experiments who were rescued from the lab and forced to live underground for safety, where they now serve as vigilante protectors to the city. There’s also heavy hitter topics like food insecurity (our FMC, Mari, works several jobs and frequently skips meals in order to pay rent), lack of healthcare, being unhoused as youths/fostercare/living in shelters, terrible landlords, terrible exes, and abductions. So keep that in mind prior to reading.
Facts, Tropes, Content Warnings, etc:
-Multi POV
-Explicit Spice
-Open door group scenes
-MMMFM Omegaverse
-Fated mates
-Scent matches
-Strong, independent FMC
-Cinnamon roll alphas
-Grumpy alpha
-Federal officers committing violence against immigrants
-Government experiments on humans
-Vehicles used as weapons
-Terrible landlord
-Terrible ex
-Food insecurity
-Abduction
-Forced ovulation/heat (no actual pregnancy)
-Pregnancy scare (no actual pregnancy)
April 19, 2026
Mari is a very busy lady dropped into a crazy situation when she finds herself to be the unsuspecting Omega of a pack of government experiment/super soldier/turtle guys trying to take down an unknown(?) evil.
let’s start with the positive - i really appreciated the explainer given on the whole A/B/O dynamics and Omegaverse terminology. Mari is clueless to how it works and frankly so was i. this is not my first OV romance but the others have kind of just thrown the reader in blind, assuming you’re already versed in the workings and goings on of the system.
beyond that i really don’t know what to say.
i was excited at the prospect of a TMNT-inspired romance and i would say the book delivered in that aspect.
however, the idea of ICE as the villian in the story was… a choice. reading is political, writing is political. but unfortunately the execution fell flat. bc, as we find out the enemy is, in fact, “not-ICE” and so what has really been said?
the whole story built up to this major conflict that was just kind of resolved without any explanation, which was very disappointing.
in the end, i’m invested enough to want to find out what happens and i will be picking up the next book.
this is an honest ARC review. eARC courtesy of the author via BookSirens.
let’s start with the positive - i really appreciated the explainer given on the whole A/B/O dynamics and Omegaverse terminology. Mari is clueless to how it works and frankly so was i. this is not my first OV romance but the others have kind of just thrown the reader in blind, assuming you’re already versed in the workings and goings on of the system.
beyond that i really don’t know what to say.
i was excited at the prospect of a TMNT-inspired romance and i would say the book delivered in that aspect.
however, the idea of ICE as the villian in the story was… a choice. reading is political, writing is political. but unfortunately the execution fell flat. bc, as we find out the enemy is, in fact, “not-ICE” and so what has really been said?
the whole story built up to this major conflict that was just kind of resolved without any explanation, which was very disappointing.
in the end, i’m invested enough to want to find out what happens and i will be picking up the next book.
this is an honest ARC review. eARC courtesy of the author via BookSirens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2026
Today was Turtle Tuesday, apparently - because reading about Mari and the guys filled my day!
Dakota Cockaday doesn’t fail to write a masterpiece that continues to make my day after finishing it. Thank you for bringing me to love another group of Turtle Mutant Men - but for a whole other reason than my younger years.
Dakota Cockaday doesn’t fail to write a masterpiece that continues to make my day after finishing it. Thank you for bringing me to love another group of Turtle Mutant Men - but for a whole other reason than my younger years.
April 21, 2026
Sadly, I’m too old to get the in-jokes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Look when Dakota says "I have an idea", all you have to do is say hold my beer and embrace the chaos... and that is exactly what I did with this book. Also yes there is cursed art because Dakota brings out this unhinged chaos gremlin side of me... and I had to get a turtle shell for my dog because she is automatically part of the chaos.
She said I'm giving you turtle men, but they're not ninjas and they don't eat pizza or whatever those guys did. Instead these guys are mutants who were humans that got experimented on by the military so now they're turtles and they're also part of the omegaverse. Have we set the groundwork? I think so.
These guys escaped from their torture mutation chambers and are now living underground trying to keep the streets safe and protect the people from being hurt and used like they were. What happens when they stumble across their omega?? Well I'm glad you asked, because their omega Mari DOESN'T EVEN KNOW WHAT AN OMEGA IS. Yes my people it is one of those beautiful moments.
She has to learn to trust these males and let them in, but they've got their own pasts and issues that may get in the way of making the perfect pack. Mari is so independent and shut off from everyone apart from Misty who is her gorgeous dog friend who has a mind of her own. So letting in these guys and opening up to the idea of being an omega is certainly a work in progress. Also just so you know omegaverse always has some of the best spice and this was no different, I love reading about an omegas heat and I don't know why 😂
Real talk real quick. But the big bads in this book do resemble some of the big bads in the world today, and you will see some representation of real world issues on the page. If you don't want to face that in your fiction right now, then that's fine I just want to give you a heads up. THE BIG BADS IN THIS THOUGH ARE FREAKING INFURIATING AND I WOULD VERY HAPPILY SEND THEM ON A ONE WAY TRIP TO THE CORE OF THE EARTH WHERE THEY CAN NEVER COME NEAR MY BOYS AND MARI AGAIN.
This was such a great read where we got to explore the dynamics between the characters and build things up because it will never be perfect straight away. It was funny yet endearing, and at the same time rage inducing. The pacing was perfect and I felt like we explored the fears, concerns and enemies without leaving anything dragging behind.
I'd like to thank Dakota for providing me with an arc of this book, all thoughts and opinions shared are my own!
Tropes:
🐢 Omegaverse
🐢 Vigilante MMCs
🐢 Why choose
🐢 Surprise heat
🐢 A CUTE DOG
🐢 Rage inducing evil
She said I'm giving you turtle men, but they're not ninjas and they don't eat pizza or whatever those guys did. Instead these guys are mutants who were humans that got experimented on by the military so now they're turtles and they're also part of the omegaverse. Have we set the groundwork? I think so.
These guys escaped from their torture mutation chambers and are now living underground trying to keep the streets safe and protect the people from being hurt and used like they were. What happens when they stumble across their omega?? Well I'm glad you asked, because their omega Mari DOESN'T EVEN KNOW WHAT AN OMEGA IS. Yes my people it is one of those beautiful moments.
She has to learn to trust these males and let them in, but they've got their own pasts and issues that may get in the way of making the perfect pack. Mari is so independent and shut off from everyone apart from Misty who is her gorgeous dog friend who has a mind of her own. So letting in these guys and opening up to the idea of being an omega is certainly a work in progress. Also just so you know omegaverse always has some of the best spice and this was no different, I love reading about an omegas heat and I don't know why 😂
Real talk real quick. But the big bads in this book do resemble some of the big bads in the world today, and you will see some representation of real world issues on the page. If you don't want to face that in your fiction right now, then that's fine I just want to give you a heads up. THE BIG BADS IN THIS THOUGH ARE FREAKING INFURIATING AND I WOULD VERY HAPPILY SEND THEM ON A ONE WAY TRIP TO THE CORE OF THE EARTH WHERE THEY CAN NEVER COME NEAR MY BOYS AND MARI AGAIN.
This was such a great read where we got to explore the dynamics between the characters and build things up because it will never be perfect straight away. It was funny yet endearing, and at the same time rage inducing. The pacing was perfect and I felt like we explored the fears, concerns and enemies without leaving anything dragging behind.
I'd like to thank Dakota for providing me with an arc of this book, all thoughts and opinions shared are my own!
Tropes:
🐢 Omegaverse
🐢 Vigilante MMCs
🐢 Why choose
🐢 Surprise heat
🐢 A CUTE DOG
🐢 Rage inducing evil
April 10, 2026
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 (rounded up for rating)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
First of all, did this give 90s nostalgia vibes even though these were grown men & not teenagers eating pizza who were taught Ninjutsu by a talking rat? Yes, yes it did. INSTEAD we have military experiments gone right (for us, and if you tell me you don’t like turtles, I don’t believe you) because I’m ready for these turtle men to take me down their manhole 😂 WHY AM I LIKE THIS? This is the most chaotic sentence & I have no regrets 😂
🐢MMMFM Omegaverse
🐢Military Experiment Turned Vigilante MMCs
🐢Why Choose
🐢Surprise Heat – What even is an omega?
🐢Matchmaking Dog Who’s Easily Swayed by Breakfast Sammiches From Turtle Men
🐢Conspiracies & an EXTREMELY Problematic Ex
🐢Fated Mates
🐢They Live in the Sewer… But It’s Cool & Doesn’t Give the Ick
Mari is used to working herself to the bone to survive. When a mysterious green man who smells ridiculously good helps her out of a scary situation with some federal agents near her home, she’s thrust into the middle of…what now?
Turtle omegaverse is a first for me & there’s no looking back. Mari was a fiercely independent FMC who had to learn to let these turtle men in, and once she does? Well, naturally, she goes into heat & then CHAOS ensues (seriously, the villains in this one are eerily similar to villains in the real-world & you’re ready to THROW DOWN) BUT thankfully her pack has her back, front, sides…everything 👀
Samuel meets Mari first & is smitten from the start – a determined turtle man who feeds her & will date her any way he can? Yes, please. Anson is somehow the pack leader 😂 I’m not not saying he played rock, paper, scissors for the role, but he’s hot & dependable in an emergency. Beau is the beta of the group & talk about a sweetie who will remember all your favorite things *swoon*. OH! And Samuel & Anson are boyfriends, and sometimes Beau joins in, so we love that. And Damien? Well, he's the guarded grump of our group who is basically touch-starved & who doesn’t love a tortured hero? If ANY of these turtle men showed up in my life? I’m jumping on that shell & being taken beneath the city…goodbye, world, you will never see me again!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
First of all, did this give 90s nostalgia vibes even though these were grown men & not teenagers eating pizza who were taught Ninjutsu by a talking rat? Yes, yes it did. INSTEAD we have military experiments gone right (for us, and if you tell me you don’t like turtles, I don’t believe you) because I’m ready for these turtle men to take me down their manhole 😂 WHY AM I LIKE THIS? This is the most chaotic sentence & I have no regrets 😂
🐢MMMFM Omegaverse
🐢Military Experiment Turned Vigilante MMCs
🐢Why Choose
🐢Surprise Heat – What even is an omega?
🐢Matchmaking Dog Who’s Easily Swayed by Breakfast Sammiches From Turtle Men
🐢Conspiracies & an EXTREMELY Problematic Ex
🐢Fated Mates
🐢They Live in the Sewer… But It’s Cool & Doesn’t Give the Ick
Mari is used to working herself to the bone to survive. When a mysterious green man who smells ridiculously good helps her out of a scary situation with some federal agents near her home, she’s thrust into the middle of…what now?
Turtle omegaverse is a first for me & there’s no looking back. Mari was a fiercely independent FMC who had to learn to let these turtle men in, and once she does? Well, naturally, she goes into heat & then CHAOS ensues (seriously, the villains in this one are eerily similar to villains in the real-world & you’re ready to THROW DOWN) BUT thankfully her pack has her back, front, sides…everything 👀
Samuel meets Mari first & is smitten from the start – a determined turtle man who feeds her & will date her any way he can? Yes, please. Anson is somehow the pack leader 😂 I’m not not saying he played rock, paper, scissors for the role, but he’s hot & dependable in an emergency. Beau is the beta of the group & talk about a sweetie who will remember all your favorite things *swoon*. OH! And Samuel & Anson are boyfriends, and sometimes Beau joins in, so we love that. And Damien? Well, he's the guarded grump of our group who is basically touch-starved & who doesn’t love a tortured hero? If ANY of these turtle men showed up in my life? I’m jumping on that shell & being taken beneath the city…goodbye, world, you will never see me again!
Review of advance copy
thank you to Cassiopeian Press for access to this ARC through BookSirens in exchange for my honest review.
this is a multi-POV romance book with omegaverse and fated mates elements and a sinister plot the characters must uncover. the characters themselves are fine for the most part. mari, our fmc, is probably the most well developed out of all of them which isn't saying much. the turtle men feel more like they are following a set of archetypes, resulting in them feeling flat.
it is a very contemporary book. it makes references to current pop culture, and the antagonists are stated by the author to be ICE at the start. i like when contemporary books act like a time capsule for current culture and events. but the way the whole "ICE as antagonists" thing is done is a little weird to me.
the inciting incident in this book is the fmc mari meeting one of the mmcs samuel when the dog she's walking decides to interfere in an ICE raid. they successfully prevent a woman from getting kidnapped and then they proceed to get acquainted.
after this, ICE isn't really addressed throughout the rest of the book. they are referenced multiple times by multiple characters that they could be the ones kidnapping people off the street. but at the same time they state that the kidnappers could just be human traffickers posing as ICE.
there are also some inconsistencies when it comes to the plot, making some things feel like some points have been fabricated solely for inserting tension into the romance without much rhyme or reason. it makes me skeptical that the author really truly needed to reference ICE as an entity in this book. but the author certainly doesn't address it or the harm they do to people.
this is a multi-POV romance book with omegaverse and fated mates elements and a sinister plot the characters must uncover. the characters themselves are fine for the most part. mari, our fmc, is probably the most well developed out of all of them which isn't saying much. the turtle men feel more like they are following a set of archetypes, resulting in them feeling flat.
it is a very contemporary book. it makes references to current pop culture, and the antagonists are stated by the author to be ICE at the start. i like when contemporary books act like a time capsule for current culture and events. but the way the whole "ICE as antagonists" thing is done is a little weird to me.
the inciting incident in this book is the fmc mari meeting one of the mmcs samuel when the dog she's walking decides to interfere in an ICE raid. they successfully prevent a woman from getting kidnapped and then they proceed to get acquainted.
after this, ICE isn't really addressed throughout the rest of the book. they are referenced multiple times by multiple characters that they could be the ones kidnapping people off the street. but at the same time they state that the kidnappers could just be human traffickers posing as ICE.
there are also some inconsistencies when it comes to the plot, making some things feel like some points have been fabricated solely for inserting tension into the romance without much rhyme or reason. it makes me skeptical that the author really truly needed to reference ICE as an entity in this book. but the author certainly doesn't address it or the harm they do to people.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
This is an author who I trust to take me into any story so when she said “how about turtle mutant men who were the victims of military experimentation but let’s make it omegaverse?”, I said “f@ck yes”. And I stand by my choice. This was excellent.
This is the first book in a duology centered around a group of soldiers who were involuntarily experimented on by the government. Now they’ve escaped, they’re out on the streets (or under them) keeping the public safe, and they’re open to love…. Especially when they find their omega.
The only problem?
Mari doesn’t even know what an omega IS, much less how to be one.
Can she learn to trust Samuel, Anson, Damien and Beau? Samuel, Anson and Beau are all in, but Damien can’t even trust himself after being burned by love before.
Mari is fiercely independent, trusts absolutely no one and has the best canine friend ever in Misty, her sausage-loving German Shepherd buddy. (Side note, Dakota also has the best sausage loving fans IRL, like me).
This was SO well written. Yes, we can acknowledge the absurdity of omegaverse loosely inspired by TMNT. But also…. The writing is sharp and full of humor and heart. The world building is quasi-real and we learn about the mutant underground organically along with Mari. It’s consistently paced, and it’s packed with empathetic characters dealing with fears and desires that I understand.
There’s some tension because these guys escaped from their military superiors and those guys want our guys back. There’s also a vast network of underground mutants and I would like a story for each, please!
The last 25% is going to hit you with all the feels and tension and electricity. This isn’t just spicy, this is swoon worthy.
Thanks so much for Dakota for the review copy. I cannot wait to dive into book 2!
This is an author who I trust to take me into any story so when she said “how about turtle mutant men who were the victims of military experimentation but let’s make it omegaverse?”, I said “f@ck yes”. And I stand by my choice. This was excellent.
This is the first book in a duology centered around a group of soldiers who were involuntarily experimented on by the government. Now they’ve escaped, they’re out on the streets (or under them) keeping the public safe, and they’re open to love…. Especially when they find their omega.
The only problem?
Mari doesn’t even know what an omega IS, much less how to be one.
Can she learn to trust Samuel, Anson, Damien and Beau? Samuel, Anson and Beau are all in, but Damien can’t even trust himself after being burned by love before.
Mari is fiercely independent, trusts absolutely no one and has the best canine friend ever in Misty, her sausage-loving German Shepherd buddy. (Side note, Dakota also has the best sausage loving fans IRL, like me).
This was SO well written. Yes, we can acknowledge the absurdity of omegaverse loosely inspired by TMNT. But also…. The writing is sharp and full of humor and heart. The world building is quasi-real and we learn about the mutant underground organically along with Mari. It’s consistently paced, and it’s packed with empathetic characters dealing with fears and desires that I understand.
There’s some tension because these guys escaped from their military superiors and those guys want our guys back. There’s also a vast network of underground mutants and I would like a story for each, please!
The last 25% is going to hit you with all the feels and tension and electricity. This isn’t just spicy, this is swoon worthy.
Thanks so much for Dakota for the review copy. I cannot wait to dive into book 2!
March 30, 2026
“Even if she wasn’t our omega, I’d spend the rest of my life convincing her to stay with me, to stay with us.”
As a kid who grew up watching TMNT this was absolutely perfect. Who knew turtles could be so hot?
I love Mari, she has a complete lack of care that they are literally green with shells. She gets confused with the omega/alpha aspect but honestly she’s so chill. I like how she didn’t let the guys rule her life, even when under threat she’s determined to be independent.
Anson, the leader of the group, is obsessed with her. I love when he hasn’t even met her yet , only been told by Samuel about an omega, he has so many plans for her, to keep Her safe. He’s so obsessed with her from the get go, but also in a respectful way.
Samuel is the cheeky alpha. I really liked him, he was the one to first find Mari and offer her protection. He keeps her safe and close by without suffocating her. He’s also just funny.
“Do you know how beautiful you are?” “It never hurts to tell me again.”
Beau is our sweet baby beta. Honestly he’s just so sweet, funny and always making jokes, but also so adorable. Even when injured he cares for Mari and tries to protect her.
Damien is the grump of the group. Jaded and broken from his past, which fair he’s been used as an experiment (they all have) to become a turtle. He’s hurt the most as the woman he loved betrayed him, and he’s not willing to give into Mari straight away. But he steps up when her life is on the line, and keeps her safe when it matters the most.
Misty is our fun and trusty pup sidekick to Mari. I love how easy the guys could win her over with just a bit of sausage. She’s a lovely little companion to have around.
I also loved how Anson and Samuel were together too, and how occasionally Beau would join them and weren’t afraid to let their individual love shine too.
I’m excited to see more from this series and to see what other funky creatures pop up.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“An omega that likes our scent? It seems impossible.”
As a kid who grew up watching TMNT this was absolutely perfect. Who knew turtles could be so hot?
I love Mari, she has a complete lack of care that they are literally green with shells. She gets confused with the omega/alpha aspect but honestly she’s so chill. I like how she didn’t let the guys rule her life, even when under threat she’s determined to be independent.
Anson, the leader of the group, is obsessed with her. I love when he hasn’t even met her yet , only been told by Samuel about an omega, he has so many plans for her, to keep Her safe. He’s so obsessed with her from the get go, but also in a respectful way.
Samuel is the cheeky alpha. I really liked him, he was the one to first find Mari and offer her protection. He keeps her safe and close by without suffocating her. He’s also just funny.
“Do you know how beautiful you are?” “It never hurts to tell me again.”
Beau is our sweet baby beta. Honestly he’s just so sweet, funny and always making jokes, but also so adorable. Even when injured he cares for Mari and tries to protect her.
Damien is the grump of the group. Jaded and broken from his past, which fair he’s been used as an experiment (they all have) to become a turtle. He’s hurt the most as the woman he loved betrayed him, and he’s not willing to give into Mari straight away. But he steps up when her life is on the line, and keeps her safe when it matters the most.
Misty is our fun and trusty pup sidekick to Mari. I love how easy the guys could win her over with just a bit of sausage. She’s a lovely little companion to have around.
I also loved how Anson and Samuel were together too, and how occasionally Beau would join them and weren’t afraid to let their individual love shine too.
I’m excited to see more from this series and to see what other funky creatures pop up.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“An omega that likes our scent? It seems impossible.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this — it was entertaining, nostalgic, and a genuinely fun introduction to Omegaverse for me.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles inspiration is such a fun hook, and it really leans into that 90s nostalgia while still feeling grounded in more current, slightly grittier themes. The government experimentation angle gives the story weight and makes the characters’ abilities and instincts feel attained.
The pack dynamics worked better than I expected. I’m not usually an Omegaverse reader, but the mix of super-soldier background, animal instincts, and found family energy made the relationships feel more natural and engaging. (That said, Beau the beta is absolutely my favourite.)
Mari is a fantastic FMC. She’s sassy, self-assured, and refuses to compromise on her needs or beliefs — not even for a group of very appealing green men. I love that she holds her ground while still allowing herself to fall for them.
This worked for me because I enjoyed the blend of action, romance, and community. The mix of mutant pack dynamics and humans rallying together gave it a strong sense of connection alongside all the chaos.
This is for readers who enjoy nostalgic-inspired sci-fi, Omegaverse with a slightly more grounded feel, strong and self-assured heroines, and stories that mix action, romance, and found family. A great pick if you want a fun, accessible entry into Omegaverse — just be ready for a few unresolved threads heading into book two.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles inspiration is such a fun hook, and it really leans into that 90s nostalgia while still feeling grounded in more current, slightly grittier themes. The government experimentation angle gives the story weight and makes the characters’ abilities and instincts feel attained.
The pack dynamics worked better than I expected. I’m not usually an Omegaverse reader, but the mix of super-soldier background, animal instincts, and found family energy made the relationships feel more natural and engaging. (That said, Beau the beta is absolutely my favourite.)
Mari is a fantastic FMC. She’s sassy, self-assured, and refuses to compromise on her needs or beliefs — not even for a group of very appealing green men. I love that she holds her ground while still allowing herself to fall for them.
This worked for me because I enjoyed the blend of action, romance, and community. The mix of mutant pack dynamics and humans rallying together gave it a strong sense of connection alongside all the chaos.
This is for readers who enjoy nostalgic-inspired sci-fi, Omegaverse with a slightly more grounded feel, strong and self-assured heroines, and stories that mix action, romance, and found family. A great pick if you want a fun, accessible entry into Omegaverse — just be ready for a few unresolved threads heading into book two.
March 26, 2026
✨✨ARC REVIEW✨✨
I knew when I saw this on insta that I NEEDED IT!!! I am a turnt up lil freak who loves all forms of books but especially monster romance and the fact that is is a twist in TMNT is the icing on the cake! We all have one TMNT we would smash and I’m not afraid to say it for me it’s Michelangelo. I’m not going to elaborate why because that’s irrelevant currently.
This is the first book of a duology and I need the next one RIGHT NOW??? The ending to this one was wrapped up perfectly but I need MORE RIGHT NOWW.
This is obviously a fantasy but it does have so very real world experiences including events we are currently living through so please do keep that in mind but also keep in mind this is FICTIONAL and not meant to be taken seriously (please do cause some people are a bit much at times)
I love that there is multiple POVS in this book so we not only get the FMC but all the boys as well! I could stay in Samuel’s mind forever tbh.
I will say I haven’t read a lot of omegaverses and I had to pause reading and have a few of my friends explain an omegaverse to me (I’m still clueless) but as someone who doesn’t know what certain things mean I still could figure it out because Dakota does explain it well!
If you are looking for an action and romance packed filled book add this to your list!!
I knew when I saw this on insta that I NEEDED IT!!! I am a turnt up lil freak who loves all forms of books but especially monster romance and the fact that is is a twist in TMNT is the icing on the cake! We all have one TMNT we would smash and I’m not afraid to say it for me it’s Michelangelo. I’m not going to elaborate why because that’s irrelevant currently.
This is the first book of a duology and I need the next one RIGHT NOW??? The ending to this one was wrapped up perfectly but I need MORE RIGHT NOWW.
This is obviously a fantasy but it does have so very real world experiences including events we are currently living through so please do keep that in mind but also keep in mind this is FICTIONAL and not meant to be taken seriously (please do cause some people are a bit much at times)
I love that there is multiple POVS in this book so we not only get the FMC but all the boys as well! I could stay in Samuel’s mind forever tbh.
I will say I haven’t read a lot of omegaverses and I had to pause reading and have a few of my friends explain an omegaverse to me (I’m still clueless) but as someone who doesn’t know what certain things mean I still could figure it out because Dakota does explain it well!
If you are looking for an action and romance packed filled book add this to your list!!
April 12, 2026
CREATURES ON A HALF SHELL follows Mari, entering her first heat and surviving through the new world that is her four new mutant turtle boyfriends! As a fan of omegaverse, I was so excited to read this new series of Cockaday, and PHEW she didn't disappoint!
Mari is the kind of girl I want to be friends with! She's just hustling on trying to get through her life, and then she has four men suddenly living with her! It's here that I wish descriptions of their life, especially in Mari's tiny apartment, were shown more, but hopefully Cockaday gives more descriptions in the next installment!
Honestly, I loved all the MMCs in this book, especially Anson and Beau! Beau is the only beta and we didn't get a lot of information about him, but I loved him and Mari's relationship! Damien, the other Alpha is...well, he's a piece of work XD I look forward to seeing how he develops in further books! Cockaday's protagonist Mari has waaaaaay more kindness in her than I would have seeing Damien's attitude.
Overall, I look forward to the next book! As an omegaverse girlie, I'm so excited for what's in store! Especially because I don't think I've seen an omegaverse, monster-esque romance with turtle MMCs!
Mari is the kind of girl I want to be friends with! She's just hustling on trying to get through her life, and then she has four men suddenly living with her! It's here that I wish descriptions of their life, especially in Mari's tiny apartment, were shown more, but hopefully Cockaday gives more descriptions in the next installment!
Honestly, I loved all the MMCs in this book, especially Anson and Beau! Beau is the only beta and we didn't get a lot of information about him, but I loved him and Mari's relationship! Damien, the other Alpha is...well, he's a piece of work XD I look forward to seeing how he develops in further books! Cockaday's protagonist Mari has waaaaaay more kindness in her than I would have seeing Damien's attitude.
Overall, I look forward to the next book! As an omegaverse girlie, I'm so excited for what's in store! Especially because I don't think I've seen an omegaverse, monster-esque romance with turtle MMCs!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had such a fun time reading Creatures on a Half Shell by Dakota Cockaday! This story brings a really unique twist to the omegaverse genre, mixing in a slightly nostalgic, almost 90s-feeling vibe with a fresh, quirky cast of characters that kept me hooked.
Mari is a strong, independent FMC who’s been handling life on her own, so watching her get pulled into this wild, secretive world of escaped military experiments was such a ride. The group dynamic is one of my favorite parts—each character brings something different, and their interactions are fun, chaotic, and surprisingly heartfelt. Plus, the humor sprinkled throughout (yes, even the breakfast sandwich moments!) made it even more enjoyable.
The world-building is creative, especially the hidden underground aspect and vigilante angle, though I did find myself wanting just a bit more depth and explanation in places—which is why it lands at 4 stars for me instead of 5.
Overall, this is a super entertaining, slightly offbeat read with great chemistry, intriguing mystery elements, and a lot of personality. I’m definitely excited to see where the Creatureverse goes next!
I had such a fun time reading Creatures on a Half Shell by Dakota Cockaday! This story brings a really unique twist to the omegaverse genre, mixing in a slightly nostalgic, almost 90s-feeling vibe with a fresh, quirky cast of characters that kept me hooked.
Mari is a strong, independent FMC who’s been handling life on her own, so watching her get pulled into this wild, secretive world of escaped military experiments was such a ride. The group dynamic is one of my favorite parts—each character brings something different, and their interactions are fun, chaotic, and surprisingly heartfelt. Plus, the humor sprinkled throughout (yes, even the breakfast sandwich moments!) made it even more enjoyable.
The world-building is creative, especially the hidden underground aspect and vigilante angle, though I did find myself wanting just a bit more depth and explanation in places—which is why it lands at 4 stars for me instead of 5.
Overall, this is a super entertaining, slightly offbeat read with great chemistry, intriguing mystery elements, and a lot of personality. I’m definitely excited to see where the Creatureverse goes next!
April 6, 2026
Mari working multiple jobs just to survive and one of her jobs is walking a German shepherd named Misty. Misty like all dogs likes to sniff about 50 million things on her walk. It’s while walking Misty that Mari encounters Samuel a mysterious man with green hands.
From then on she’s bought in to a world of government experiments, meeting Samuel, Anson, Damien and Beau all who have been experimented on, who have turtle mutations 🐢 and are now surviving underground after escaping the government facility they were in.
Mari becomes important to them, she’s their Omega and they will do everything they can to convince her it will work between all of them, Mari is just trying to process all that is happening to her, but I think for the first time she can feel safe knowing they will take care of her.
But when an ex from the past returns danger is not too far away, Samuel, Anson, Beau and even Damien will try to keep her safe. 🐢🐢
I loved the story, the characters, the easy conversations between them, the heat scenes 🥵 and of course Misty 🐾the real star of the book who lives for snacks, pats and lots of back scratches.
From then on she’s bought in to a world of government experiments, meeting Samuel, Anson, Damien and Beau all who have been experimented on, who have turtle mutations 🐢 and are now surviving underground after escaping the government facility they were in.
Mari becomes important to them, she’s their Omega and they will do everything they can to convince her it will work between all of them, Mari is just trying to process all that is happening to her, but I think for the first time she can feel safe knowing they will take care of her.
But when an ex from the past returns danger is not too far away, Samuel, Anson, Beau and even Damien will try to keep her safe. 🐢🐢
I loved the story, the characters, the easy conversations between them, the heat scenes 🥵 and of course Misty 🐾the real star of the book who lives for snacks, pats and lots of back scratches.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2026
This was a fun and engaging read which is like a spin-off of an omegaverse story and the mutant turtles of the 90s ;P Our guys in this story, though, were soldiers that were conned into experiments that changed them on so many levels. Mari is a gal struggling to survive by working several jobs, one being to walk the cute dog, Misty. It's through her dog walking job that she first meets Samuel. The rest of the guys soon follow, well, except for Damien who was burned bad in the past so his trust level is practically non-existent. Poor alpha was definitely touch starved. With beta Beau and main alpha, Anson, these four were about to find that there is more to life than monitoring gov't activities...once they explained that Mari is an omega ;P I loved this story but I will caution readers that this has a lot of real life reflected in it, including ICE raids, so keep that in mind before cracking this one open. However, if you do, you won't be disappointed in this entertaining and fast paced read that has vigilantes, a baddie that you'll love to hate, action, mystery, drama and hot spice. I can't wait to dive into the next book. Good fun!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ARC REVIEW✨️
Creatures on a Half Shell was such a fun read. It stands apart from other Omegaverse stories I’ve picked up, and it works beautifully for every dynamic involved. I especially loved the connection Mari, our FMC, has with the Beta. So often Betas are mentioned but never truly present, and Dakota makes sure everyone feels seen here. No one gets pushed to the sidelines, not even the alphahole (eventually).
There’s always something happening in this book. Mari is juggling what feels like five hundred side gigs (yes, I’m exaggerating), Misty the dog is out here trying to be both a good girl and a vigilante, and the boys are tracking underground activity while doing everything they can to protect the innocent.
The whole story carries this intense but deeply loving found family energy. They go through so much together, and it still barely captures the lengths these men will go for their Omega and the people they love. It’s heartfelt and steady in its devotion, with characters who make you want to stay with them a little longer.
Creatures on a Half Shell was such a fun read. It stands apart from other Omegaverse stories I’ve picked up, and it works beautifully for every dynamic involved. I especially loved the connection Mari, our FMC, has with the Beta. So often Betas are mentioned but never truly present, and Dakota makes sure everyone feels seen here. No one gets pushed to the sidelines, not even the alphahole (eventually).
There’s always something happening in this book. Mari is juggling what feels like five hundred side gigs (yes, I’m exaggerating), Misty the dog is out here trying to be both a good girl and a vigilante, and the boys are tracking underground activity while doing everything they can to protect the innocent.
The whole story carries this intense but deeply loving found family energy. They go through so much together, and it still barely captures the lengths these men will go for their Omega and the people they love. It’s heartfelt and steady in its devotion, with characters who make you want to stay with them a little longer.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Creatures on a Halfshell by Dakota Cockaday is the first book in her Creatureverse series. It is a MMMFM Omegaverse. It is definitely written for all of the monster lovers who grew up having a crush on a certain group of man sized turtles! (You know who I’m talking about!) I really enjoyed this story. It has so much emotion and Dakota did such a good job making it to where you feel the emotion off of the page. I personally have not read a lot of Omegaverse books, so I appreciated that Dakota worked in an explanation into the book! I loved all of the characters. Well… not all… but that just means Dakota did a great job making lovable characters lovable, and hateable characters very very hateable.
I completely loved every single page of this book, and I definitely recommend it! I 10/10 recommend Creatures on a Halfshell by Dakota Cockaday! Especially if you are a monster lover, and even more if you’re a fan of a certain group of man sized turtles!
I completely loved every single page of this book, and I definitely recommend it! I 10/10 recommend Creatures on a Halfshell by Dakota Cockaday! Especially if you are a monster lover, and even more if you’re a fan of a certain group of man sized turtles!
Read
March 19, 2026Mari is making it by walking a (really adorable!) dog, making flower deliveries, working at a coffee shop, and somehow also working at a hotel until said dog literally drags her into an unfortunate situation and brings to the attention of some tall, mysterious, covered-head-to-toe strangers. This is a little different than Dakota's usual stuff. It's a little angstier, a little angrier, and with a much more defined Big Bad Antagonist. But it also has all the hallmarks of a Dakota book: interfering pet, men who fall first and hard, and witty, hyper independent women who definitely have some ~trauma~. It is also probably the most unique OV I've ever read (and I've read A TON). It combines sci-fi themes (medical experimentation on unwilling/non-consenting subjects) with OV (heats, A/B/O) dynamics in a really interesting way while also having a late 90s detective show vibe.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Creatures on a Half Shell, an adult version of TMNT, started out equal parts romance and human rights PSA—after a few chapters it feels so much better. I really enjoyed the book after it . . . settled. A lot of action, heat, affection, groveling, and redemption.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Samuel
✨Anson
✨Beau
✨Damian
FMC:
✨Mari
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA, open ended ending
Series:
✨Book 1: Creatureverse
Tropes:
👉omegaverse romance
👉sci-fi romance
👉vigilante MMCs
👉omega fmc
👉why choose
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, mfm, mfmm, mm, mf, open🚪sex
💥profanity
💥violence
💥kidnapping, captivity
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Samuel
✨Anson
✨Beau
✨Damian
FMC:
✨Mari
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA, open ended ending
Series:
✨Book 1: Creatureverse
Tropes:
👉omegaverse romance
👉sci-fi romance
👉vigilante MMCs
👉omega fmc
👉why choose
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, mfm, mfmm, mm, mf, open🚪sex
💥profanity
💥violence
💥kidnapping, captivity
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this via a ARC copy and Dakota is amazing!
This book is a perfect set up for the creatureverse!
Mari our feisty FMC is amazing in her independence but seeing her struggle with letting Samuel in at first was fun. I found myself yelling at my kindle wanting only the best for her.
Samuel for sure is the golden retriever of the group and it was cute watching their dynamic and with the additions of Anson and Beau.
Damien made me want to scream at some points but who can resist our FMC not even this grumpy alpha.
As always our furry companions are awesome! Misty the sausage lover didn’t disappoint in making herself known when she was unhappy with something.
I can’t wait to see the next one to hopefully see the big bads get what’s coming to them!
This book is a perfect set up for the creatureverse!
Mari our feisty FMC is amazing in her independence but seeing her struggle with letting Samuel in at first was fun. I found myself yelling at my kindle wanting only the best for her.
Samuel for sure is the golden retriever of the group and it was cute watching their dynamic and with the additions of Anson and Beau.
Damien made me want to scream at some points but who can resist our FMC not even this grumpy alpha.
As always our furry companions are awesome! Misty the sausage lover didn’t disappoint in making herself known when she was unhappy with something.
I can’t wait to see the next one to hopefully see the big bads get what’s coming to them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
4.5 rounded up to 5
This one is an omegaverse and a bit darker than Dakota’s usual books but it still has the humor and interfering pets we love and have come to expect! It’s really a story of how people can work through their past trauma to come together as a pack and find the love they were looking for.
Our alpha MMCs (and Beau, can’t forget about the beta) are military experiments (men who are now part turtle) who escaped and now dole out vigilante justice on illicit government activities.
Our FMC Mari is self sufficient, working multiple jobs to get by, not depending on anyone. So finding out she’s an omega and letting her alphas in is a big pill to swallow and takes time to adapt for all of them.
4.5 rounded up to 5
This one is an omegaverse and a bit darker than Dakota’s usual books but it still has the humor and interfering pets we love and have come to expect! It’s really a story of how people can work through their past trauma to come together as a pack and find the love they were looking for.
Our alpha MMCs (and Beau, can’t forget about the beta) are military experiments (men who are now part turtle) who escaped and now dole out vigilante justice on illicit government activities.
Our FMC Mari is self sufficient, working multiple jobs to get by, not depending on anyone. So finding out she’s an omega and letting her alphas in is a big pill to swallow and takes time to adapt for all of them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I grew up watching the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, so when I was given the opportunity to read this Creatureverse book, I had to say "heck, yes!!"
This is a fun take on the Omegaverse genre, where the guys are not shifters or aliens, but humans who have been experimented on, turning them onto alphas & betas.
I loved the relationship between Mari and the four turtle-men, and I'm glad it wasn't an instant attraction to all of them. It feels a bit more real when the relationship gets a chance to slowly blossom and grow.
That said, this book was pretty fast paced and very quickly had me hooked. I enjoyed it so much and I can't wait for book two.
I received an ARC of this ebook via BookSirens, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
This is a fun take on the Omegaverse genre, where the guys are not shifters or aliens, but humans who have been experimented on, turning them onto alphas & betas.
I loved the relationship between Mari and the four turtle-men, and I'm glad it wasn't an instant attraction to all of them. It feels a bit more real when the relationship gets a chance to slowly blossom and grow.
That said, this book was pretty fast paced and very quickly had me hooked. I enjoyed it so much and I can't wait for book two.
I received an ARC of this ebook via BookSirens, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
April 6, 2026
When Dakota gets an idea, just say yes and roll with it!!
The government has experimented with 'kids' in the army and mixed their DNA with animals, turning them into hybrid mutants.
This book focuses on turtles with Anson, Samuel, Beau and Damien with their omega Mari.
It was great to see each character have their moments although I felt Damien could've had more. We get snippets of him and his story but we don't get him and Mari fully until the end but its not as complete as the others.
I understand the trigger warning for I.C.E but luckily it wasn't huge sections of the book and was just sprinkled in.
A fun book with full characters and antagonists that make you wanna reach in and give them a clip round the ear.
Looking forward to the series
The government has experimented with 'kids' in the army and mixed their DNA with animals, turning them into hybrid mutants.
This book focuses on turtles with Anson, Samuel, Beau and Damien with their omega Mari.
It was great to see each character have their moments although I felt Damien could've had more. We get snippets of him and his story but we don't get him and Mari fully until the end but its not as complete as the others.
I understand the trigger warning for I.C.E but luckily it wasn't huge sections of the book and was just sprinkled in.
A fun book with full characters and antagonists that make you wanna reach in and give them a clip round the ear.
Looking forward to the series
April 8, 2026
So don't you just HATE when your just trying to find the right person to maybe share your life with, only to find that maybe it's three? Also maybe those three are escaped exmilitary that were experimented on and are now MAAAAAAybe part turtle? Yeah me either. I loved it!!!
This book was fun on a half shell! Three actually. snerk. Dakota says she doesn't know how to "do" omegaverse, but I saw no flaws. No notes. It was wonderful with just that right amount of tension and mystery being with the whole military experiment twist. Honestly all three of the guys are super sweet, just one of them has spent so long being broody that if he's not what is he supposed to do with his HANDS?!?! oh wait... heehee.
This book was fun on a half shell! Three actually. snerk. Dakota says she doesn't know how to "do" omegaverse, but I saw no flaws. No notes. It was wonderful with just that right amount of tension and mystery being with the whole military experiment twist. Honestly all three of the guys are super sweet, just one of them has spent so long being broody that if he's not what is he supposed to do with his HANDS?!?! oh wait... heehee.
April 22, 2026
This one was a struggle for me. I really struggled to stick with this one. Technically nothing is wrong with this, and I gave it four stars because I think some will really like it. It’s well written. Maybe those who are younger than me will like it? I had a hard time connecting with the characters, and the flow just seemed to stutter for me at first. It does pick up once the POV starts switching around, but it took five chapters to get there. It leans heavily into current issues which some will love. Personally, I’m reading to escape and reset. So make sure to read your triggers and content warning.
If you like monster omegaverse, this might be for you, just check the content warning first.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you like monster omegaverse, this might be for you, just check the content warning first.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2026
So GOOOOOD!!!!!
So besides the perfect throw back to my youth, this book was so freaking awesome!!!! Shifter adjacent (genetically modified half human-half animal ‘super soldiers’ escaped from their evil government-military overlords now turned vigilantes), omegaverse-pack dynamics and knotting included🥰😍😍😍😍😍
The story was interesting, it was well done, I loved the pacing and length (I wish I did, but I don’t have the time or patience these days for 600 pages per book🙁)
The heroine was ballsy and awesome! Independent and stubborn🥰🤗 The heros were sweet and each one had something to offer🥰🤗
I love love loved it!!!!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
So besides the perfect throw back to my youth, this book was so freaking awesome!!!! Shifter adjacent (genetically modified half human-half animal ‘super soldiers’ escaped from their evil government-military overlords now turned vigilantes), omegaverse-pack dynamics and knotting included🥰😍😍😍😍😍
The story was interesting, it was well done, I loved the pacing and length (I wish I did, but I don’t have the time or patience these days for 600 pages per book🙁)
The heroine was ballsy and awesome! Independent and stubborn🥰🤗 The heros were sweet and each one had something to offer🥰🤗
I love love loved it!!!!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
March 27, 2026
This was a great read! I really appreciate the realistic depiction of a fmc who suffered from past homelessness and food insecurity. Mari is fiercely independent and it’s refreshing to see the author maintain that. The main male characters were interesting and I enjoyed the different personalities. I loved the nod to the spadefoot toads from her ghost light falls series. And of course it’s not a sokoto book without an animal companion misty was a great companion. The military aspect was good I wish the Larry situation was solved but that and other open ends hopefully are covered in the next in the series ( hopefully Malcom’s book???)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did receive this as an arc and I am leaving my genuine opinion. I loved it. I relate with Mari the fmc so hard. She’s tough, independent, and has been through some things. I love a bad biih fmc. The type that makes you work for it. And work for it they did! I adore the guys as well. They are all different and their personalities show but they are in it to win it. Conflict, chaos, tension, spice, a bad guy, and courting makes for a great rollercoaster ride. Like I said there is spice but it’s not overly explicit. I just wish it was a little longer and a bit more drawn out at the end because I’m greedy. But I definitely recommend this.
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