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Cedarwood Pack #2
Starting a New Life
Would you rather keep running from an entire pack of wolves or let just one into your life—and your heart?
Nix
My coven betrayed me. Even worse, they tried to sell me to a wolf pack to become their slave.
After five months on the run and constantly feeling the pack’s metaphorical breath on the back of my neck, I can’t do it anymore.
Hiding in the Cedarwood Pack’s territory was supposed to be a brief stop. Staying here is risky. What if they find and enslave me? If I stay, it’s just a matter of time until I’m discovered, but I don’t think I have it in me to keep running.
Will I lose my freedom after all, or is the Alpha my chance for a fresh start?
Gray
Weird things are happening in my territory, and my wolf and I don’t like it. First, the barrier started suddenly getting stronger even though it shouldn’t be able to do that, and now stuff is going missing. We’re a pack, a family. Family doesn’t steal from one another, yet it keeps happening.
So when I discover a strange mage on my territory who’s apparently been here for months, I snap.
Throwing him in a cell might be the biggest mistake of my life. I didn’t recognize the mate bond in time, and now he’s terrified of me and my wolf. I have no idea how to make him see that I’d never harm him.
Will helping him free other mages show him who I really am, or have I lost my chance for good?
"Starting a New Life" is Book 2 in the "Cedarwood Pack" series. It can be read as a standalone.
Please note that the release date is currently set to October but will be adjusted and probably release in August.
My coven betrayed me. Even worse, they tried to sell me to a wolf pack to become their slave.
After five months on the run and constantly feeling the pack’s metaphorical breath on the back of my neck, I can’t do it anymore.
Hiding in the Cedarwood Pack’s territory was supposed to be a brief stop. Staying here is risky. What if they find and enslave me? If I stay, it’s just a matter of time until I’m discovered, but I don’t think I have it in me to keep running.
Will I lose my freedom after all, or is the Alpha my chance for a fresh start?
Gray
Weird things are happening in my territory, and my wolf and I don’t like it. First, the barrier started suddenly getting stronger even though it shouldn’t be able to do that, and now stuff is going missing. We’re a pack, a family. Family doesn’t steal from one another, yet it keeps happening.
So when I discover a strange mage on my territory who’s apparently been here for months, I snap.
Throwing him in a cell might be the biggest mistake of my life. I didn’t recognize the mate bond in time, and now he’s terrified of me and my wolf. I have no idea how to make him see that I’d never harm him.
Will helping him free other mages show him who I really am, or have I lost my chance for good?
"Starting a New Life" is Book 2 in the "Cedarwood Pack" series. It can be read as a standalone.
Please note that the release date is currently set to October but will be adjusted and probably release in August.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2026
About the author
Ray Celar
36 books46 followersRay Celar lives with her husband, daughter and two cats in Southern Germany.
When she was six years old, she proudly declared she’d be an author one day, and that dream never changed. She was declared “most likely to ever publish a book” in her yearbook and only four years after her graduation, this statement and her lifelong dream came true — though she still isn’t sure whether she should send a copy of her books to the teacher who nominated her for that title.
If she isn’t chasing after her daughter through the apartment, she’s probably translating books, writing books or procrastinating doing any of those things by watching too many DIY-videos online — she might even be working on one of the DIY-projects she picked up.
When she was six years old, she proudly declared she’d be an author one day, and that dream never changed. She was declared “most likely to ever publish a book” in her yearbook and only four years after her graduation, this statement and her lifelong dream came true — though she still isn’t sure whether she should send a copy of her books to the teacher who nominated her for that title.
If she isn’t chasing after her daughter through the apartment, she’s probably translating books, writing books or procrastinating doing any of those things by watching too many DIY-videos online — she might even be working on one of the DIY-projects she picked up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 2, 2026
Starting a New Life is my first read by Ray, but definitely not my last! I may have accidentally dumped myself into the middle of this series, but I wasn’t confused at all and really enjoyed Nix and Gray’s story!
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- shifter + mage
- fated mates
- size difference
- hurt x comfort
- pack dynamics
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- shifter + mage
- fated mates
- size difference
- hurt x comfort
- pack dynamics
August 23, 2026
Annnnd wow. This book was GOOD. So so good.
(I mean it would be 5 stars good but killing off people kinda made me sad.)
Forgot what the blurb is but Gray is the alpha of a pack and Nix is a mage hiding in Gray’s territory. In Nix’s world, mages are the lowest in pecking order and are usually enslaved or sold to shifters to be used for their magic thus he is terrified of exposing himself to Gray and his pack. However when Nix see’s two shifter wolves in danger he reveals himself by rescuing them and Gray imprisons Nix for intruding on his territory. BUT they are mates and Gray doesn’t realise until wayyyy after when his mate is 1. Already traumatised by the shifter/mage hierarchy and 2. Been chucked in a cell by his “mate” no less.
Gzzz this all makes for fun times and the grovelling and yearning that ensues is just delicious. The background story is woven into the relationship well and the side characters just make me kick my feet up in joy. If you like slow burn this would be the one for you.
There was real emotional connection in this book and the actual story unfolding was so heartwarming. I loved seeing all the interactions while Nix becomes “pack” - there was just not enough of it.
I wanted to see more of Nix becoming acclimated to the pack and being more comfortable around shifters. I wanted to see how Gray and him live with their “children” (I saw that coming a mile away). I wanted to see more of the in-laws and also seeing more of how Levi and Callum progressed with Nix teaching them. And seriously - I don’t think we ever saw how powerful Nix really is (like is he powerful? Is he normal? What can he do?). And is he a pack mage??
Yep. It’s frustrating but great that this book was so good I didn’t want it to end.
PS. I WAS looking forward to the next book because I had an inkling it might be about Heath - Heath might be an asshole but he is my asshole. I love that guy. And Angelo. And Nick. And Connie -The side characters are really good. But now that I know the next book is mm+ I’ll have to give it a miss out of personal preference.
PSS. I’m just gonna say this. I don’t care if they were the bad guys - But killing a bad guys’ brother is not ok. I even felt SAD for the “bad” guys so that’s pretty bad.
(I mean it would be 5 stars good but killing off people kinda made me sad.)
Forgot what the blurb is but Gray is the alpha of a pack and Nix is a mage hiding in Gray’s territory. In Nix’s world, mages are the lowest in pecking order and are usually enslaved or sold to shifters to be used for their magic thus he is terrified of exposing himself to Gray and his pack. However when Nix see’s two shifter wolves in danger he reveals himself by rescuing them and Gray imprisons Nix for intruding on his territory. BUT they are mates and Gray doesn’t realise until wayyyy after when his mate is 1. Already traumatised by the shifter/mage hierarchy and 2. Been chucked in a cell by his “mate” no less.
Gzzz this all makes for fun times and the grovelling and yearning that ensues is just delicious. The background story is woven into the relationship well and the side characters just make me kick my feet up in joy. If you like slow burn this would be the one for you.
There was real emotional connection in this book and the actual story unfolding was so heartwarming. I loved seeing all the interactions while Nix becomes “pack” - there was just not enough of it.
I wanted to see more of Nix becoming acclimated to the pack and being more comfortable around shifters. I wanted to see how Gray and him live with their “children” (I saw that coming a mile away). I wanted to see more of the in-laws and also seeing more of how Levi and Callum progressed with Nix teaching them. And seriously - I don’t think we ever saw how powerful Nix really is (like is he powerful? Is he normal? What can he do?). And is he a pack mage??
Yep. It’s frustrating but great that this book was so good I didn’t want it to end.
PS. I WAS looking forward to the next book because I had an inkling it might be about Heath - Heath might be an asshole but he is my asshole. I love that guy. And Angelo. And Nick. And Connie -The side characters are really good. But now that I know the next book is mm+ I’ll have to give it a miss out of personal preference.
PSS. I’m just gonna say this. I don’t care if they were the bad guys - But killing a bad guys’ brother is not ok. I even felt SAD for the “bad” guys so that’s pretty bad.
August 23, 2026
This was just as good as book one. Nix and Gray definitely do not get off to a great start. They work through a lot to get to their happily ever after.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
July 30, 2026
Fantastic book! I haven’t read the first book but I managed to follow this book without any issues. I liked it that much that I looked up the first book and have started reading it too.
Poor Nix went through so much. He was surviving and barely living but fate will not be denied. Nix’s path leads him to Gray and something unexpected happens.
There were times I just wanted to tell Gray to put a sock in it. He got himself into a rather sticky situation with Nix and had a lot to make up for.
Gray and Nix had to work together to oust the threat and this gave Gray the chance to earn Nix’s trust and heart. Their HEA didn’t come without its challenges but they got there in the end.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Poor Nix went through so much. He was surviving and barely living but fate will not be denied. Nix’s path leads him to Gray and something unexpected happens.
There were times I just wanted to tell Gray to put a sock in it. He got himself into a rather sticky situation with Nix and had a lot to make up for.
Gray and Nix had to work together to oust the threat and this gave Gray the chance to earn Nix’s trust and heart. Their HEA didn’t come without its challenges but they got there in the end.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
August 25, 2026
4.25 - It has been about two years waiting on this one, so it took a few minutes for me to remember some of the details, although I remember really enjoying the initial book in this series and recall it being an interesting start to this world. You really should read that book to have a better understanding of what is happening when this one begins.
Gray is the leader of the Cedarwood pack. We met most of the pack in the last book when Gray’s second, Rhett, met his mate, Levi. Through the course of that book, we learned there was something special about Levi, but we never really knew what. When things left off, the magical barrier wall that protected the pack had been sort of mysteriously glitching. There were random shifters coming across the border, and Levi had befriended Nix, someone he though was just homeless and down on his luck. Turns out, he is a mage on the run.
In Nix’s world, Mages are not treated well at all by witches or shifters. They are basically kept captive and used for their magic abilities while being looked down upon as the lower species. Nix manages to escape and has been on the run in Cedarwood Pack territory for about six months, outrunning the shifters who want him back. This is what has been causing the disturbances in the border wall. Turns out that the mages are the ones who create and maintain the walls, and Nix has been working to reinforce it. After he decides he can no longer hide in plain sight under the Cedarwood Pack’s nose without seeking approval, he makes a plan to go to the Alpha. But that plan is thwarted when he comes upon two young shifters being harmed by other intruders. In saving them, he is captured by the Cedarwood Pack.
This sets in motion the push and pull of Nix and Gray and their mate relationship. They must navigate the difficulties of their initial encounter, compounded by Nix’s distrust of all things shifter related. Nix slowly learns that all shifters are not bad, and they eventually all work together to handle bigger issues.
This story gripped me a bit more than the first book. It was just a bit more exciting and interesting as things moved along at a faster pace and the story advanced more. I am so happy we got to see this story continue, as I have really enjoyed all of the characters involved. And, it looks like things will be even more interesting as the next installment is about Angelo and Heath, two already complicated characters who I just knew were more closely aligned than just pack members. Hope we don’t have to wait two years to get it!
Review written by Love Bytes Reviews.
August 27, 2026
An entertaining addition to the Cedarwood Pack series.
I fell hard for Nix, the secretive friend of previous hero Levi, in book 1, wanting to know his secrets. This mage is in hiding, starving, freezing in the woods…and we know he’s escaped something so much worse.
I fell less hard for alpha Grayson/Gray, mainly because he’s a bit of a loose cannon character-wise, flipping from protective to kind of unreasonable and back, and it didn’t feel realistic, more contrived so that he’s het up enough to imprison Nix when the pack first gets to him. Gray has been going nuts trying to stop intrusions from rival wolves into their territory, and someone’s been stealing from local people, and his effectiveness as alpha is on the line…he needs this all resolved. Fast.
Nix, a mage, is terrified of shifters, who he knows enslave and use mages for power and keep them collared and under control.
He’s been hiding out in this new pack’s territory, but despite his new friend Levi’s reassurances that this pack would treat him very well if he announced himself as he is supposed to, Nix can’t get past his fears.
And when he’s finally ready to take a chance, he winds up rescuing two young shifters from another violent pack and finds himself thrown into a cell as the Cedarwood wolves chase off the intruders.
Gray soon realizes his mistake, but too late. He has imprisoned his fated mate! A mage!
The best part of this story is seeing Gray make it up to Nix, show him he’s safe, he’s protected…he’s beloved. Nix needs time to adjust, to see that not everyone is out to use him, but, it takes a good amount of time, and I loved that part. The tentative steps he takes to give this pack a chance, Levi’s support, the adoration of the two young teen shifters he saved…and finding out that not all packs enslave and use mages…lovely to go through.
There’s danger on the horizon from the people Nix escaped, as well as the pack the two teens ran from. There’s a community to get to know and be embraced by. And love and mating to be had. It’s enjoyable! And of course, the baddies get what they deserve in the end.
The author needs to develop the world more. I have no idea what the difference is between a mage and a witch. Witches...cast spells? Mages...don't need to? And...? Why, how is a mage born v a witch...SO many questions.
I was annoyed that the hero from book 1, Levi, learns something crucial to himself in this book, and it kind of is swept aside, rather than having it come out in Levi’s own story. Why? Silly. And the ending became predictable, so I admit once our MCs were mated and happy, I skimmed.
But I mostly had a good time.
HEA, fated mates. Mage in hiding/in danger. Alpha under stress. Violent confrontations, protecting the pack lands, lovely small town community and found family feel. No others, no OM action or drama, totally safe for me. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
I fell hard for Nix, the secretive friend of previous hero Levi, in book 1, wanting to know his secrets. This mage is in hiding, starving, freezing in the woods…and we know he’s escaped something so much worse.
I fell less hard for alpha Grayson/Gray, mainly because he’s a bit of a loose cannon character-wise, flipping from protective to kind of unreasonable and back, and it didn’t feel realistic, more contrived so that he’s het up enough to imprison Nix when the pack first gets to him. Gray has been going nuts trying to stop intrusions from rival wolves into their territory, and someone’s been stealing from local people, and his effectiveness as alpha is on the line…he needs this all resolved. Fast.
Nix, a mage, is terrified of shifters, who he knows enslave and use mages for power and keep them collared and under control.
He’s been hiding out in this new pack’s territory, but despite his new friend Levi’s reassurances that this pack would treat him very well if he announced himself as he is supposed to, Nix can’t get past his fears.
And when he’s finally ready to take a chance, he winds up rescuing two young shifters from another violent pack and finds himself thrown into a cell as the Cedarwood wolves chase off the intruders.
Gray soon realizes his mistake, but too late. He has imprisoned his fated mate! A mage!
The best part of this story is seeing Gray make it up to Nix, show him he’s safe, he’s protected…he’s beloved. Nix needs time to adjust, to see that not everyone is out to use him, but, it takes a good amount of time, and I loved that part. The tentative steps he takes to give this pack a chance, Levi’s support, the adoration of the two young teen shifters he saved…and finding out that not all packs enslave and use mages…lovely to go through.
There’s danger on the horizon from the people Nix escaped, as well as the pack the two teens ran from. There’s a community to get to know and be embraced by. And love and mating to be had. It’s enjoyable! And of course, the baddies get what they deserve in the end.
The author needs to develop the world more. I have no idea what the difference is between a mage and a witch. Witches...cast spells? Mages...don't need to? And...? Why, how is a mage born v a witch...SO many questions.
I was annoyed that the hero from book 1, Levi, learns something crucial to himself in this book, and it kind of is swept aside, rather than having it come out in Levi’s own story. Why? Silly. And the ending became predictable, so I admit once our MCs were mated and happy, I skimmed.
But I mostly had a good time.
HEA, fated mates. Mage in hiding/in danger. Alpha under stress. Violent confrontations, protecting the pack lands, lovely small town community and found family feel. No others, no OM action or drama, totally safe for me. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
August 25, 2026
YESSS. I've been waaaiiiting for the second book in this series for two years. Literally. Here is Ray Celar's "Starting a New Life." Its the second novel in her latest series: Cedarwood Pack.
["Would you rather keep running from an entire pack of wolves or let just one into your life—and your heart?
Nix
My coven betrayed me. Even worse, they tried to sell me to a wolf pack to become their slave.
After five months on the run and constantly feeling the pack’s metaphorical breath on the back of my neck, I can’t do it anymore.
Hiding in the Cedarwood Pack’s territory was supposed to be a brief stop. Staying here is risky. What if they find and enslave me? If I stay, it’s just a matter of time until I’m discovered, but I don’t think I have it in me to keep running.
Will I lose my freedom after all, or is the Alpha my chance for a fresh start?
Gray
Weird things are happening in my territory, and my wolf and I don’t like it. First, the barrier started suddenly getting stronger even though it shouldn’t be able to do that, and now stuff is going missing. We’re a pack, a family. Family doesn’t steal from one another, yet it keeps happening.
So when I discover a strange mage on my territory who’s apparently been here for months, I snap.
Throwing him in a cell might be the biggest mistake of my life. I didn’t recognize the mate bond in time, and now he’s terrified of me and my wolf. I have no idea how to make him see that I’d never harm him.
Will helping him free other mages show him who I really am, or have I lost my chance for good?"]
The hurt comfort on this one was sooo strong. The angst was intense. The feels were everywhere. I cried for the first...many chapters. These two had me aching. All of the pining but the hurt and the fear and the anger and the misunderstandings were stronger. I wanted to shake them (Levi wanted to shake them).
When they started to trust each other, when they started getting closer (physically and emotionally), it was perfect. Together, they were adorable and powerful and a long time coming. They stood by each other, supported each other, defended each other. They made each other (and the pack) stronger.
I can't wait for the next book. I just hope it's not another two full years. *fingers crossed*
Trigger Warnings: mentions of slavery, graphic descriptions of violence, murder (of bad guys), mentions of past child abuse, and more.
#enteringanewworld #startinganewlife #writinganewchapter #cedarwoodpack #cedarwoodpackseries #raycelar #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Would you rather keep running from an entire pack of wolves or let just one into your life—and your heart?
Nix
My coven betrayed me. Even worse, they tried to sell me to a wolf pack to become their slave.
After five months on the run and constantly feeling the pack’s metaphorical breath on the back of my neck, I can’t do it anymore.
Hiding in the Cedarwood Pack’s territory was supposed to be a brief stop. Staying here is risky. What if they find and enslave me? If I stay, it’s just a matter of time until I’m discovered, but I don’t think I have it in me to keep running.
Will I lose my freedom after all, or is the Alpha my chance for a fresh start?
Gray
Weird things are happening in my territory, and my wolf and I don’t like it. First, the barrier started suddenly getting stronger even though it shouldn’t be able to do that, and now stuff is going missing. We’re a pack, a family. Family doesn’t steal from one another, yet it keeps happening.
So when I discover a strange mage on my territory who’s apparently been here for months, I snap.
Throwing him in a cell might be the biggest mistake of my life. I didn’t recognize the mate bond in time, and now he’s terrified of me and my wolf. I have no idea how to make him see that I’d never harm him.
Will helping him free other mages show him who I really am, or have I lost my chance for good?"]
The hurt comfort on this one was sooo strong. The angst was intense. The feels were everywhere. I cried for the first...many chapters. These two had me aching. All of the pining but the hurt and the fear and the anger and the misunderstandings were stronger. I wanted to shake them (Levi wanted to shake them).
When they started to trust each other, when they started getting closer (physically and emotionally), it was perfect. Together, they were adorable and powerful and a long time coming. They stood by each other, supported each other, defended each other. They made each other (and the pack) stronger.
I can't wait for the next book. I just hope it's not another two full years. *fingers crossed*
Trigger Warnings: mentions of slavery, graphic descriptions of violence, murder (of bad guys), mentions of past child abuse, and more.
#enteringanewworld #startinganewlife #writinganewchapter #cedarwoodpack #cedarwoodpackseries #raycelar #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
August 21, 2026
Review for (Cedarwood Pack-2) Starting a New Life by Ray Celar
Triggers/Tropes
Murder
Violence
Past child abuse
Mentions of slavery
I love stories that write pack life. I love the way authors write their concept of pack life in each of their stories. I fell in love with paranormal romances years and years ago lol. This is a new author for me, so I wanted to see how they wrote their pack life, how the main characters meet, and how it goes from there. I felt so sorry for Nix (Mage) due to his whole coven having betrayed and hurt him. If that wasn't enough, they also tried to sell him to a wolf pack as their slave. He has been on the run now for several months. To be in fear each day is the day they find him. Nix has grown so tired of running; the fear he feels every day has just become too much. Now he is hiding in the Cedarwood packs area till he can move on again. He knew it might not be smart to hang around more than a day because he knew he was on borrowed time till they found him. He knows he can't keep up with the running anymore. He has to ask himself, is it worth running anymore? Or would it just be better to give up? Gray is the Alpha, could he be the person to help him stay safe? Gray has started to think that too many strange things are happening in his pack area. Gray starts to find things missing and wants to find out why. He knows it isn't his pack; his pack doesn't steal from each other. As it keeps happening, he starts to search for the reason. As he searches, he finds out that a Mage has been hidden in his pack land for months, and he had no clue. The book takes off from here to where I had to keep reading till I read the last word. For a new author i was surprised how much I did enjoy this story. It is the second book in the Cedarwood Pack series. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one; I need to read the first one to see what that one is about.
Nicole Harvey
Triggers/Tropes
Murder
Violence
Past child abuse
Mentions of slavery
I love stories that write pack life. I love the way authors write their concept of pack life in each of their stories. I fell in love with paranormal romances years and years ago lol. This is a new author for me, so I wanted to see how they wrote their pack life, how the main characters meet, and how it goes from there. I felt so sorry for Nix (Mage) due to his whole coven having betrayed and hurt him. If that wasn't enough, they also tried to sell him to a wolf pack as their slave. He has been on the run now for several months. To be in fear each day is the day they find him. Nix has grown so tired of running; the fear he feels every day has just become too much. Now he is hiding in the Cedarwood packs area till he can move on again. He knew it might not be smart to hang around more than a day because he knew he was on borrowed time till they found him. He knows he can't keep up with the running anymore. He has to ask himself, is it worth running anymore? Or would it just be better to give up? Gray is the Alpha, could he be the person to help him stay safe? Gray has started to think that too many strange things are happening in his pack area. Gray starts to find things missing and wants to find out why. He knows it isn't his pack; his pack doesn't steal from each other. As it keeps happening, he starts to search for the reason. As he searches, he finds out that a Mage has been hidden in his pack land for months, and he had no clue. The book takes off from here to where I had to keep reading till I read the last word. For a new author i was surprised how much I did enjoy this story. It is the second book in the Cedarwood Pack series. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one; I need to read the first one to see what that one is about.
Nicole Harvey
Review of advance copy
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
A bit of a rocky start for these unexpected mates, that thankfully turns quickly into a sweet love story. Too quickly, maybe, as it went from a nice slow burn of a romance — Nix getting over his fear of shifters, Gray earning his trust a little bit at a time — only to then speed up to the finish line. Their first kiss, the mating, the i-love-you’s, all one after the other, barely a moment to enjoy them as a couple.
A plot that reminded me a bit of Captive Mate and a typical shifter world with shifter drama, but an enjoyable experience nonetheless. I loved Nix, his sweetness with the teenage pups, the hurt/comfort of the romance, the protectiveness of the Alpha. I wanted more overall, but I still had fun with these guys and am looking forward to seeing more of this wonderful pack.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mentions of slavery
- Violence/murder
- Mentions of past child abuse
- Wolf shifter vs mage
- Virgin MC/never been kissed
- Top/bottom
- Frotting
I was in a cell—and my fated mate had put me there.
A bit of a rocky start for these unexpected mates, that thankfully turns quickly into a sweet love story. Too quickly, maybe, as it went from a nice slow burn of a romance — Nix getting over his fear of shifters, Gray earning his trust a little bit at a time — only to then speed up to the finish line. Their first kiss, the mating, the i-love-you’s, all one after the other, barely a moment to enjoy them as a couple.
He was the cherished Alpha, and I was… the outcast. Unwanted by basically everyone I’d ever met in my life. And the people who did want me wanted me for all the wrong reasons.
A plot that reminded me a bit of Captive Mate and a typical shifter world with shifter drama, but an enjoyable experience nonetheless. I loved Nix, his sweetness with the teenage pups, the hurt/comfort of the romance, the protectiveness of the Alpha. I wanted more overall, but I still had fun with these guys and am looking forward to seeing more of this wonderful pack.
How did I deserve him? How did fate decide that I deserved someone so good and beautiful?
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mentions of slavery
- Violence/murder
- Mentions of past child abuse
- Wolf shifter vs mage
- Virgin MC/never been kissed
- Top/bottom
- Frotting
August 20, 2026
STARTING A NEW LIFE is the second book in the Cedarwood Pack series. I read the first book back in 2024 and couldn't remember much about it, but once I started reading this, it all came back. Personally, I don't think you have to read book one, but it does give you an insight into Levi and Rhett.
Anyway, if you have read Levi and Rhett's story and think theirs was a bad enough start, Gray is here to prove you wrong. When he meets his freezing mate, he throws him in a cellar without his cloak or even a blanket. Okay, fair enough; he may not have recognised him as his mate, but still. Poor Nix!!
I was totally enthralled by this story. I loved hearing about the mages and what they can do (although I hated it at the same time). The prejudices against them seem completely unfounded, and I would love to learn more. I just wish Nix and Gray had had more time together, but that's what you get when you're mated to the Alpha. There were a lot of things that went on, and each revelation made it more intriguing.
I can't help but wonder what happened to Heath in his past, though. Not only did he not want to bond with the barrier, but he also had ingrained prejudice against mages. Luckily for me, his story is next, together with Angelo and Callum. I just hope I don't have to wait as long.
A great return to the Cedarwood Pack and definitely recommended by me. 4.5 outstanding stars, rounded up where necessary.
** The same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Aug 20, 2026
Anyway, if you have read Levi and Rhett's story and think theirs was a bad enough start, Gray is here to prove you wrong. When he meets his freezing mate, he throws him in a cellar without his cloak or even a blanket. Okay, fair enough; he may not have recognised him as his mate, but still. Poor Nix!!
I was totally enthralled by this story. I loved hearing about the mages and what they can do (although I hated it at the same time). The prejudices against them seem completely unfounded, and I would love to learn more. I just wish Nix and Gray had had more time together, but that's what you get when you're mated to the Alpha. There were a lot of things that went on, and each revelation made it more intriguing.
I can't help but wonder what happened to Heath in his past, though. Not only did he not want to bond with the barrier, but he also had ingrained prejudice against mages. Luckily for me, his story is next, together with Angelo and Callum. I just hope I don't have to wait as long.
A great return to the Cedarwood Pack and definitely recommended by me. 4.5 outstanding stars, rounded up where necessary.
** The same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Aug 20, 2026
August 23, 2026
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I’m new to Ray Celar’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the Cedarwood Pack Series. Man my heart hurt for everything Nix went through and I don’t blame him for being utterly terrified of Gray & the rest of the Cedarwood Pack after what he’s been through and then getting thrown in a cell overnight. Gray knew he acted harshly made even more so when he went to ask Nix some questions and scented that Nix was his mate. He rectified his mistake by putting Nix in a room upstairs but it takes him awhile to earn Nix’s trust but it’s totally worth the wait. I thought that they make a great team.
I liked seeing Nix stick up for himself and the captive Mage Callum, from Connie & Nick’s abusive birth pack when Heath was being a bit of an a*se. It goes to show that even though he’s not fully comfortable around the pack he isn’t terrified of repercussions like he would’ve e been when he first arrived. When Heath explained why he said those things I totally understood where he was coming from and I believe he would’ve told them why in the meeting but no one asked. I’m looking forward to reading Angelo, Callum & Heath’s book, Writing a New Chapter when it’s released, as well as more books by Ray Celar in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I’m new to Ray Celar’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the Cedarwood Pack Series. Man my heart hurt for everything Nix went through and I don’t blame him for being utterly terrified of Gray & the rest of the Cedarwood Pack after what he’s been through and then getting thrown in a cell overnight. Gray knew he acted harshly made even more so when he went to ask Nix some questions and scented that Nix was his mate. He rectified his mistake by putting Nix in a room upstairs but it takes him awhile to earn Nix’s trust but it’s totally worth the wait. I thought that they make a great team.
I liked seeing Nix stick up for himself and the captive Mage Callum, from Connie & Nick’s abusive birth pack when Heath was being a bit of an a*se. It goes to show that even though he’s not fully comfortable around the pack he isn’t terrified of repercussions like he would’ve e been when he first arrived. When Heath explained why he said those things I totally understood where he was coming from and I believe he would’ve told them why in the meeting but no one asked. I’m looking forward to reading Angelo, Callum & Heath’s book, Writing a New Chapter when it’s released, as well as more books by Ray Celar in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
August 24, 2026
Damn, this book was intense. Nix went through hell with his coven and as if that wasn’t enough, his own mate didn’t recognize him and imprisoned him. No wonder he didn’t trust shifters.
Granted, Gray was angry at the situation and couldn’t think rationally and even though his wolf was telling him what to do, he chose to ignore him. He never meant to make Nix afraid of him, things just happened to quickly.
My poor Nix was scared of being found out yet he didn’t hesitate to put his own life in danger to save Nick and Conrad. He could have just let them die considering they too were shifters. But instead he saved them even knowing the risks.
Being thrown into a cell wasn’t exactly the reward Nix expected after saving the wolves. Especially not by his own mate. This action only solidified his feelings on shifters. It felt like a cruel joke from the universe to be mated to the species he hated the most.
I loved that Gray kinda grovel to make up for his mistake. I loved even more that he gave Nix the space he needed whenever he felt overwhelmed. He really was sorry for what he did.
It took a while but Nix fit right into the pack despite his apprehension. He made Gray an even better alpha and helped him see he was doing a great job. The unexpected family was just what they needed to make their lives even better.
𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰’𝒅 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒚, 𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒆-𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝑨𝒍𝒑𝒉𝒂 𝒘𝒉𝒐’𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒄𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆’𝒅 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒎𝒆, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒅. 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚.
This was my first time reading Ray’s work and I’m hooked. I can’t wait for the next book!
Granted, Gray was angry at the situation and couldn’t think rationally and even though his wolf was telling him what to do, he chose to ignore him. He never meant to make Nix afraid of him, things just happened to quickly.
My poor Nix was scared of being found out yet he didn’t hesitate to put his own life in danger to save Nick and Conrad. He could have just let them die considering they too were shifters. But instead he saved them even knowing the risks.
Being thrown into a cell wasn’t exactly the reward Nix expected after saving the wolves. Especially not by his own mate. This action only solidified his feelings on shifters. It felt like a cruel joke from the universe to be mated to the species he hated the most.
I loved that Gray kinda grovel to make up for his mistake. I loved even more that he gave Nix the space he needed whenever he felt overwhelmed. He really was sorry for what he did.
It took a while but Nix fit right into the pack despite his apprehension. He made Gray an even better alpha and helped him see he was doing a great job. The unexpected family was just what they needed to make their lives even better.
𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰’𝒅 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒚, 𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒆-𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝑨𝒍𝒑𝒉𝒂 𝒘𝒉𝒐’𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒄𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆’𝒅 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒎𝒆, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒅. 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚.
This was my first time reading Ray’s work and I’m hooked. I can’t wait for the next book!
August 23, 2026
This is the second book in the Cedarwood Pack series. I have not read the first book in this series and I was able to enjoy this book as a standalone read. This is the story of Nix and Gray. Nix is a mage who is hiding from a wolf pack that he was sold to after his coven betrayed him. He has been hiding on the Cedarwood Pack's territory. Nix, as a mage, is terrified of shifters, who he knows enslave and use mages for power and keep them collared and under control. Gray is the alpha of the Cedarwood Pack. He is concerned about things that are happening on pack land. When Nix sees two teenage wolf shifters in danger, he rescues them from another violent pack. Of course, Gray as alpha only sees an intruder and throws Nix into a cell. This reinforces Nix's opinion of the wolf shifters. Worse, Gray finally realizes that he has imprisoned his fated mate after he has run off the other wolf pack. Gray realizes that he has a lot of work ahead of him to prove to Nix that he is safe, protected and loved. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I enjoyed the small town community and the found family feel of the book. I liked that Gray recognized that Nix needed time to heal and slowly learn to trust what Gray said. The healing moved at Nix's pace. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next book in this series.
Review of advance copy
Rating: 4.5
Steam: 2
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: paranormal romance, MM
Tropes / tags: shifters, fated mates, hurt / comfort
I'm not sure what Ray Celar is putting in this series, but this story was just as addictive and captivating as the first one!
I was pleasantly surprised by the first book in this series, so this one was a highly awaited and anticipated read for me - and it didn't disappoint! It was easy to feel curious about Nix from the glimpses of him in Entering a New World, and his past ended up being more heartbreaking than what I had expected…
Being on the run for half a year had taken a toll on Nix, and he was at the end of his rope. The first meeting with the pack turned into a disaster though, and it took Gray a long time to get Nix to trust him after it. I loved seeing the pack again, and even if Gray acted hastily and misjudged the situation with Nix, he was overall a great alpha and it was reflected in his pack.
The hurt / comfort hit just right, and I loved the relationship development between Nix and Gray. I have a soft spot for the combination of fated mates and slow burn, and Nix needed time to work through everything he'd been through and come to terms with being fated to the alpha of a pack. Gray was patient and careful with Nix, and seeing the trust slowly building between them while they were both feeling the tug of being fated mates was just perfection.
Starting a New Life had me hooked from the first chapter, and I loved Nix and Gray's story! I really enjoyed the plot and setting in this one, and the situation with the puppies and the suspense plot was very intriguing. I’m definitely looking forward to more stories about the Cedarwood pack, and if you enjoy shifter romances with hurt / comfort and suspense, I highly recommend these books!
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 2
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: paranormal romance, MM
Tropes / tags: shifters, fated mates, hurt / comfort
I'm not sure what Ray Celar is putting in this series, but this story was just as addictive and captivating as the first one!
I was pleasantly surprised by the first book in this series, so this one was a highly awaited and anticipated read for me - and it didn't disappoint! It was easy to feel curious about Nix from the glimpses of him in Entering a New World, and his past ended up being more heartbreaking than what I had expected…
Being on the run for half a year had taken a toll on Nix, and he was at the end of his rope. The first meeting with the pack turned into a disaster though, and it took Gray a long time to get Nix to trust him after it. I loved seeing the pack again, and even if Gray acted hastily and misjudged the situation with Nix, he was overall a great alpha and it was reflected in his pack.
The hurt / comfort hit just right, and I loved the relationship development between Nix and Gray. I have a soft spot for the combination of fated mates and slow burn, and Nix needed time to work through everything he'd been through and come to terms with being fated to the alpha of a pack. Gray was patient and careful with Nix, and seeing the trust slowly building between them while they were both feeling the tug of being fated mates was just perfection.
Starting a New Life had me hooked from the first chapter, and I loved Nix and Gray's story! I really enjoyed the plot and setting in this one, and the situation with the puppies and the suspense plot was very intriguing. I’m definitely looking forward to more stories about the Cedarwood pack, and if you enjoy shifter romances with hurt / comfort and suspense, I highly recommend these books!
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 24, 2026
This is book 2 in the Cedarwood Pack series. I absolutely loved it! I felt so bad for Nix. He’s on the run and staying in a tent on the Cedarwood Pack’s land. He’s cold, starving and his magic is almost depleted. He’s only had bad interactions with shifters and is afraid of them. Gray is Alpha of the Cedarwood pack. He finds that someone has been stealing items and that there’s something going on with the barrier.
When Nix realizes 2 young shifters are in danger, he acts to save them even though it takes everything out of him. Gray and his team arrive soon after and before he realizes Nix is his mate, orders that he should be put in one of the pack’s cells.
Grays wolf is not happy that he put their mate in a cell, and he does his best to apologize. Despite his fear of shifters, Nix definitely starts to feel the mate connection with Gray.
Gray lets Nix go at his own pace when it comes to the pack. There are issues with the two young shifters that Nix saved, but everything works out. They save another Mage (Callum) who was being held captive. It broke my heart to see what he had been through.
It looks like the next book will be about Callum, Heath and Angelo. MMM isn’t always my favorite, but I’m looking forward to this one. I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest opinion.
When Nix realizes 2 young shifters are in danger, he acts to save them even though it takes everything out of him. Gray and his team arrive soon after and before he realizes Nix is his mate, orders that he should be put in one of the pack’s cells.
Grays wolf is not happy that he put their mate in a cell, and he does his best to apologize. Despite his fear of shifters, Nix definitely starts to feel the mate connection with Gray.
Gray lets Nix go at his own pace when it comes to the pack. There are issues with the two young shifters that Nix saved, but everything works out. They save another Mage (Callum) who was being held captive. It broke my heart to see what he had been through.
It looks like the next book will be about Callum, Heath and Angelo. MMM isn’t always my favorite, but I’m looking forward to this one. I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2026
4.0 stars = great continuation of the Cedarwood pack series. I liked Ray's introduction explaining the similar Nix and Nick names for two characters - and that Nick refused to change his, which i appreciated, having myself tried writing at times and had similar arguments with my characters.
This is another plot where the pack is a refuge, this time for a mage on the run, and how Alexander, renamed Nix (for Phoenix) escapes and survives. But despite his need to keep hidden due to the mistreatment of mages in wolf packs, he revealed his presence to rescue two teen wolf shifters who were escaping their own mistreatment. Due to a misunderstanding, the Alpha Grayson had Nix put into cells which hadn't been used for decades, and ironically then found that they are fated mates.
Mages featured heavily in this second novel of the series including rescuing another mage being mistreated by a wolf pack and a discovery of another in the Cedarwood pack.
I really enjoy the writing of the novels in this series and I enjoy the humour in them, partcularly the struggle of Gray with his wolf, the latter being more direct in his wishes. I look forward to the next one in the series, which Ray hinted at, at the end!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
This is another plot where the pack is a refuge, this time for a mage on the run, and how Alexander, renamed Nix (for Phoenix) escapes and survives. But despite his need to keep hidden due to the mistreatment of mages in wolf packs, he revealed his presence to rescue two teen wolf shifters who were escaping their own mistreatment. Due to a misunderstanding, the Alpha Grayson had Nix put into cells which hadn't been used for decades, and ironically then found that they are fated mates.
Mages featured heavily in this second novel of the series including rescuing another mage being mistreated by a wolf pack and a discovery of another in the Cedarwood pack.
I really enjoy the writing of the novels in this series and I enjoy the humour in them, partcularly the struggle of Gray with his wolf, the latter being more direct in his wishes. I look forward to the next one in the series, which Ray hinted at, at the end!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
A relationship that feels completely forbidden, a homeless mage, and an Alpha who doesn’t even recognize who his mate is?! 👀✨ Yeah… this book had me hooked.
There’s a delicious little enemies-to-lovers moment, plenty of hurt/comfort, and one of the most wonderful found-family dynamics🥹❤️ And let’s talk about our Alpha, because watching him realize when he’s wrong, take accountability, and actually learn how to become a better partner for his mate? Sir, that’s the kind of character development I like to see😮💨💅
The worldbuilding also brings in some political undertones, especially with the way mages are treated as an extremely low social class compared to shifters. It adds another layer to the romance and makes the whole story feel even more interesting.
Basically: forbidden-ish romance + magic + shifters + hurt/comfort + found family + groveling/accountability + a sprinkle of politics = GOLD
This was an ARC provided to me by Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for my honest review, and honestly? I’m VERY happy they put this one in my hands🥰
Mega recommended if you like your MM romance with a little angst, a lot of heart, and an Alpha who has to learn that being a mate is about more than just claiming someone💕✨
ALSO THERES SPICE!! But it’s like 3.5/5 in that area.
There’s a delicious little enemies-to-lovers moment, plenty of hurt/comfort, and one of the most wonderful found-family dynamics🥹❤️ And let’s talk about our Alpha, because watching him realize when he’s wrong, take accountability, and actually learn how to become a better partner for his mate? Sir, that’s the kind of character development I like to see😮💨💅
The worldbuilding also brings in some political undertones, especially with the way mages are treated as an extremely low social class compared to shifters. It adds another layer to the romance and makes the whole story feel even more interesting.
Basically: forbidden-ish romance + magic + shifters + hurt/comfort + found family + groveling/accountability + a sprinkle of politics = GOLD
This was an ARC provided to me by Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for my honest review, and honestly? I’m VERY happy they put this one in my hands🥰
Mega recommended if you like your MM romance with a little angst, a lot of heart, and an Alpha who has to learn that being a mate is about more than just claiming someone💕✨
ALSO THERES SPICE!! But it’s like 3.5/5 in that area.
August 24, 2026
Loved Nix and his friends
Gray? Not so much. I mean, who ignores their wolf when he's telling you something very important, insistently and urgently? Throwing your fated mate in a cell because you're looking to punish anyone, regardless of whether they're guilty or innocent? Shame on you, Gray, even though he did try to redeem himself very quickly once he realised his monumental mistake.
I loved Nix, bless him. It hurt to see what he'd been through and what a tough time he was still having. I wanted to wrap him in a fluffy blanket, sit him in front of a roaring fire, hug him and feed him all the best comfort foods.
By the end, I did like Gray as a partner for Nix, even if he didn't grovel as much as I wanted him to nor as much as Nix deserved. The relationships Nix had with his friend, Levi, and with the two young shifters, Connie and Nick, were wonderful and made me smile more than Gray did. I loved Gray's mum and dad too.
Levi discovered something life-changing and it was just glossed over, really. I think it was/will be important to the Pack, and the overarching story, and it seemed like a missed opportunity here.
I'm looking forward to the next one, Writing a New Chapter, an MMM which promises to be good, especially after seeing a bit of them interacting here.
Gray? Not so much. I mean, who ignores their wolf when he's telling you something very important, insistently and urgently? Throwing your fated mate in a cell because you're looking to punish anyone, regardless of whether they're guilty or innocent? Shame on you, Gray, even though he did try to redeem himself very quickly once he realised his monumental mistake.
I loved Nix, bless him. It hurt to see what he'd been through and what a tough time he was still having. I wanted to wrap him in a fluffy blanket, sit him in front of a roaring fire, hug him and feed him all the best comfort foods.
By the end, I did like Gray as a partner for Nix, even if he didn't grovel as much as I wanted him to nor as much as Nix deserved. The relationships Nix had with his friend, Levi, and with the two young shifters, Connie and Nick, were wonderful and made me smile more than Gray did. I loved Gray's mum and dad too.
Levi discovered something life-changing and it was just glossed over, really. I think it was/will be important to the Pack, and the overarching story, and it seemed like a missed opportunity here.
I'm looking forward to the next one, Writing a New Chapter, an MMM which promises to be good, especially after seeing a bit of them interacting here.
August 24, 2026
Nix is a Mage on the run after being betrayed by his own coven. A coven who wanted to sell his to a pack of wolves as a slave. He wasn't about to stick around and be sold so he ran as far as he could with the coven on his tail and realized he couldn't keep going this way. So stops and hides in the Cedarwood pack until he's able to think of his next move only to get himself caught trying to help someone and is thrown into a cell by none of than his newly discovered wolf mate named Gray. This whole time Nix was avoided being help captive by wolves to be thrown in a cell by another wolf who also happens to be your mate. Gray doesn't sense the matebind in time but the damage is already done by the time he figures it out. Now Nix is scared of him nd his wolf and doesn't trust him. But there are so many things coming their way but Gray needs to make rime to convince Nix that he can be trusted and can ve a good mate and keep him safe. I really loved these two and felt they balenced each other out nicely. I liked the bit of strain between them at first even though I hated what Gray did he was determined to earn Nix's trust back. This was such an enjoyable book and I can't wait to read more by this author.
Review of advance copy
Starting a New Life by Ray Celar is book 2 in the new Cedarwood Pack series. I really loved book 1 in this series so I was very excited to see book 2 is coming. I loved Nix and Gray so much. I wasn’t sure how it was going to in the beginning when Gray threw Nix in a cell before realizing that he was his fated mate.
However, Gray really stepped up and tried to make Nix comfortable with the pack and with him. Nix definitely has a lot of reasons to not trust shifters and he tried hard to connect with the pack. I loved the relationship between Nix and the two teenage shifters who he had saved.
There was a lot happening in this book and I could not put it down. I loved all of the characters and it was great to see Rhett and Liam again. I am curious how the next book will go with Heath, Angelo, and the newly rescued mage, Callum. Heath has a lot of bigotry to overcome in regards to mages, so it will be fascinating to see how he makes things right with Callum.
I really enjoy this author and look forward to the next book!
I received an ARC from the author and GRR for my honest review.
However, Gray really stepped up and tried to make Nix comfortable with the pack and with him. Nix definitely has a lot of reasons to not trust shifters and he tried hard to connect with the pack. I loved the relationship between Nix and the two teenage shifters who he had saved.
There was a lot happening in this book and I could not put it down. I loved all of the characters and it was great to see Rhett and Liam again. I am curious how the next book will go with Heath, Angelo, and the newly rescued mage, Callum. Heath has a lot of bigotry to overcome in regards to mages, so it will be fascinating to see how he makes things right with Callum.
I really enjoy this author and look forward to the next book!
I received an ARC from the author and GRR for my honest review.
August 24, 2026
3.75 stars
“Starting a New Life” by Ray Celar is the second book in the ‘Cedarwood Pack’ series and centers around a mage who calls himself Nix after escaping from his abusive coven and the alpha, Gray, who makes a series of mistakes while dealing with the unsettling intruder into his territory. Complicating the difficulties of learning they are mates are a series of threats that may endanger the entire pack.
This adult gay paranormal romance can be read as a stand-alone story, but the tale would probably be enhanced if one has read the first book in the series. I like the premise but I felt the story was a bit uneven and rushed in places, and I was puzzled about things like how and when Nix formed such a close bond with Levi yet didn’t address Levi’s talent, the formation of such a strong “hide me” ward without being able to provide weatherproofing, the naivete regarding how mages were treated elsewhere, and more. I connected with some of the secondary characters more than the main couple, but enough threads were established that make me want to read more in this series.
A copy of this story was provided for review
“Starting a New Life” by Ray Celar is the second book in the ‘Cedarwood Pack’ series and centers around a mage who calls himself Nix after escaping from his abusive coven and the alpha, Gray, who makes a series of mistakes while dealing with the unsettling intruder into his territory. Complicating the difficulties of learning they are mates are a series of threats that may endanger the entire pack.
This adult gay paranormal romance can be read as a stand-alone story, but the tale would probably be enhanced if one has read the first book in the series. I like the premise but I felt the story was a bit uneven and rushed in places, and I was puzzled about things like how and when Nix formed such a close bond with Levi yet didn’t address Levi’s talent, the formation of such a strong “hide me” ward without being able to provide weatherproofing, the naivete regarding how mages were treated elsewhere, and more. I connected with some of the secondary characters more than the main couple, but enough threads were established that make me want to read more in this series.
A copy of this story was provided for review
August 23, 2026
This was such an emotional and satisfying read. Nix has been through so much that it was heartbreaking watching him struggle to trust anyone, especially after being betrayed by his own coven. Gray certainly doesn’t make the best first impression when he imprisons his own mate, but watching him realise his mistake and work to earn Nix’s trust was one of my favourite parts.
I really enjoyed the slow-burn development between them and the way Nix gradually starts to feel like part of the pack. The pack dynamics and supporting characters added so much warmth, while the mystery surrounding the missing items and the mages gave the story plenty of tension.
There were definitely moments that broke my heart, but overall this was a lovely story about healing, finding a family, and finally having somewhere you belong. I just wanted more time with Nix and Gray once they finally found their happiness!
I really enjoyed the slow-burn development between them and the way Nix gradually starts to feel like part of the pack. The pack dynamics and supporting characters added so much warmth, while the mystery surrounding the missing items and the mages gave the story plenty of tension.
There were definitely moments that broke my heart, but overall this was a lovely story about healing, finding a family, and finally having somewhere you belong. I just wanted more time with Nix and Gray once they finally found their happiness!
August 23, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and I honestly can’t say enough good things about this one! But I’ll keep this review short and sweet.
Nix and Gray made such a great team, especially once Gray finally pulled his head out of his butt and started really listening to his inner wolf. This isn’t your typical meet-cute romance, but I was totally hooked on this book. It’s a slow burn when it comes to the steamy parts, but I didn’t even mind because I was so immersed in the story. The twists and turns kept me on my toes, and watching Nix grow and blossom under Gray’s protection was truly beautiful. I’m really excited to see where this series goes next, especially how the Cedarwood Pack continues to develop.
I received a free copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and I honestly can’t say enough good things about this one! But I’ll keep this review short and sweet.
Nix and Gray made such a great team, especially once Gray finally pulled his head out of his butt and started really listening to his inner wolf. This isn’t your typical meet-cute romance, but I was totally hooked on this book. It’s a slow burn when it comes to the steamy parts, but I didn’t even mind because I was so immersed in the story. The twists and turns kept me on my toes, and watching Nix grow and blossom under Gray’s protection was truly beautiful. I’m really excited to see where this series goes next, especially how the Cedarwood Pack continues to develop.
I received a free copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 24, 2026
This story revealed several different emotional experiences, and it all came together in a beautiful way. Nix’s resilience really stood out as he fought his way out of a heartbreaking situation and slowly moved toward friendship, love, and safety. I always felt Gray would be a great mate for Nix, and he absolutely was. Their slow-burn connection made sense given Nix’s past, and once things sparked, they really sparked.
There was a lot going on in this book. Several different issues were woven into the story, but the author did a fairly good job of keeping them sorted and adequately addressing all of them.
It was nice to see familiar characters from the previous book and spend a little more time in their world.
There was a lot going on in this book. Several different issues were woven into the story, but the author did a fairly good job of keeping them sorted and adequately addressing all of them.
It was nice to see familiar characters from the previous book and spend a little more time in their world.
August 27, 2026
3.5 stars
I picked this one up and it's been a while since I read book 1....took me a minute to catch-up, but I would recommend reading the books in order. Now, totally a fated mates story with both MC's recognising that fact up front. But it doesn't stop the prejudices and per-conceived ideas from rising up and causing a few miscommunications....well, more than that, I mean, he did throw him in a cell. There are sweet moments and funny ones but it's no light'n'fluffy story. There are some darker themes, so heed TW's. I would've liked some more background on difference to magic users and the back'n'forth attitude of Gray annoyed me a bit.... but otherwise, I enjoyed the story and really really want to read book 3 !!
I picked this one up and it's been a while since I read book 1....took me a minute to catch-up, but I would recommend reading the books in order. Now, totally a fated mates story with both MC's recognising that fact up front. But it doesn't stop the prejudices and per-conceived ideas from rising up and causing a few miscommunications....well, more than that, I mean, he did throw him in a cell. There are sweet moments and funny ones but it's no light'n'fluffy story. There are some darker themes, so heed TW's. I would've liked some more background on difference to magic users and the back'n'forth attitude of Gray annoyed me a bit.... but otherwise, I enjoyed the story and really really want to read book 3 !!
Review of advance copy
Hell yeah
Reading this right after reading book 1 was the best thing I've ever done for myself- honestly, I might be a bit obsessed with this series.
I ADORED Gray in book 1 and that didn't change in book 2! He's so kind and sweet, despite his temper. I liked how he had to grovel for a while in order to win his mate back and honestly, I'm pleased with how everything turned out.
Just like with book 1, this book had just the right amount of everything; just a bit of angst, just a bit of drama, just a bit of suspense, and a lot of sweetness. Just what I needed!
UGH I can't wait for book three!
Reading this right after reading book 1 was the best thing I've ever done for myself- honestly, I might be a bit obsessed with this series.
I ADORED Gray in book 1 and that didn't change in book 2! He's so kind and sweet, despite his temper. I liked how he had to grovel for a while in order to win his mate back and honestly, I'm pleased with how everything turned out.
Just like with book 1, this book had just the right amount of everything; just a bit of angst, just a bit of drama, just a bit of suspense, and a lot of sweetness. Just what I needed!
UGH I can't wait for book three!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
First off, be sure to read the first book before diving into this one. Some of the characters that overlap between the 2 books is likely to make you want to read the first book anyways, so you should start there.
I loved this book. I had a soft spot for Nix (Okay, I have a soft spot for any lost, abused MC) and this book did not disappoint whatsoever. I loved everything about it. The plot was great, the fated mates mixed with mages and shifters was amazing.
Having such a verity of shifters and magic isn't something I have came across too often, and this book had everything I wanted and more.
I loved this book. I had a soft spot for Nix (Okay, I have a soft spot for any lost, abused MC) and this book did not disappoint whatsoever. I loved everything about it. The plot was great, the fated mates mixed with mages and shifters was amazing.
Having such a verity of shifters and magic isn't something I have came across too often, and this book had everything I wanted and more.
Review of advance copy
This story was so well done. I applaud the author for digging into such a deep theme as she did it so well. Nix holds so much trauma and it shows on the page. This isn’t a story where he meets his mate and it is all better. Gray has to work for it and show him that Nix can trust him. It is a slow burn, but it is SO worth it. The way that the pack tries to earn his trust is so sweet and every little moment is so well done. The world building is amazing and the little details made me feel like I was there. I absolutely loved the ending to this story and thought that it was well earned. I really want to read the next book now!
August 20, 2026
This series is best read in order, as there are quite a few appearances by Nix and Gray in book 1, Entering a New World, which helps set the scene. Nix is a really interesting character, as a mage on the run, and Gray is dealing with the demands of being Alpha of a pack. As a paranormal shifter romance I really enjoyed both the romance and the wider storyline, which covers far more than just the romance. There's lots of danger, intrigue, found family and the importance of doing the right thing. It's a good fast pace too. I'm really enjoying this world, and hope we don't have too long to wait for book 3, as I'm looking forward to new character Callum's story!
I received an ARC.
I received an ARC.
August 21, 2026
Great continuation of the series
I enjoyed this story much more than expected. It's sweet like book one but more serious and emotional. It had a great plot and enjoyable characters. I worried I'd dislike Gray because of his temper but seeing things from his pov made him feel relatable. Nix was great- seriously, his fears and anxiety were understandable and made me want to hug him. Both were good guys and the relationship between them felt natural and sweet. The side characters were well done as well.
This is the third book I've read from this author and it's by far the best. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!
I enjoyed this story much more than expected. It's sweet like book one but more serious and emotional. It had a great plot and enjoyable characters. I worried I'd dislike Gray because of his temper but seeing things from his pov made him feel relatable. Nix was great- seriously, his fears and anxiety were understandable and made me want to hug him. Both were good guys and the relationship between them felt natural and sweet. The side characters were well done as well.
This is the third book I've read from this author and it's by far the best. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!
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