What do you think?
Rate this book
Fanged Mistakes #4
Clean Slates and Checkmates
Yorick
Pretending that I’m not in love with the thousand-year-old vampire who is the bane of my existence is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I know what you’re thinking… “Yorick the Great, you are far too good for Atticus the Old and Boring,” and you would be right… but I’m determined to woo this man if it’s the last thing I do.
And it might very well be when someone stabs me with a poison that limits my healing. This is the perfect opportunity for Atticus to step up and pamper me, but instead, he tosses me a poisoned-coated weapon and throws me right into the lion’s den! Sent off for some revenge nonsense when what I want is so simple: for Atticus to moon all over me while showering me with love, giving me presents, and moving into my house with me (a dog wouldn’t hurt as well).
Atticus
Nearly five hundred years ago, Yorick fell into my life, stole from me, set me on fire, and ran off.
That meeting set the tone for the rest of our lives. The problem is that my past haunts me, and no matter what I do, no one in my life is safe from the consequences.
I know Yorick wants more, but it’s something I can’t give him when every move I make is being watched. Then a poison that affects vampires sets my world spiraling as truths come to light about that fateful night all those years ago.
One thing I know: no matter how many years pass, the only piece of my life that keeps me moving forward is the man I vowed to never love.
Pretending that I’m not in love with the thousand-year-old vampire who is the bane of my existence is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I know what you’re thinking… “Yorick the Great, you are far too good for Atticus the Old and Boring,” and you would be right… but I’m determined to woo this man if it’s the last thing I do.
And it might very well be when someone stabs me with a poison that limits my healing. This is the perfect opportunity for Atticus to step up and pamper me, but instead, he tosses me a poisoned-coated weapon and throws me right into the lion’s den! Sent off for some revenge nonsense when what I want is so simple: for Atticus to moon all over me while showering me with love, giving me presents, and moving into my house with me (a dog wouldn’t hurt as well).
Atticus
Nearly five hundred years ago, Yorick fell into my life, stole from me, set me on fire, and ran off.
That meeting set the tone for the rest of our lives. The problem is that my past haunts me, and no matter what I do, no one in my life is safe from the consequences.
I know Yorick wants more, but it’s something I can’t give him when every move I make is being watched. Then a poison that affects vampires sets my world spiraling as truths come to light about that fateful night all those years ago.
One thing I know: no matter how many years pass, the only piece of my life that keeps me moving forward is the man I vowed to never love.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2026
About the author
Alice Winters
68 books2,943 followersAlice Winters started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to turn her ideas into written words. She loves writing a variety of things from romance and comedy to action. She also enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her pets.
Follow me on Facebook where I put up short stories, teasers, and giveaways: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Alice...
Join my newsletter: https://www.alicewintersauthor.com/
Follow me on Facebook where I put up short stories, teasers, and giveaways: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Alice...
Join my newsletter: https://www.alicewintersauthor.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 30, 2026
Yorick finally gets his HEA!!!!
I have found him endlessly entertaining and the relationship between him and Atticus has given me a lot of giggles, but it was so great to see them finally getting to be together!
Morpheus is such a dick... What do you mean you've been torturing a guy for 1000 years and now you're like 'no harm done'?!?!
Ugh!!!
I did actually feel really bad for Yorick because he just wanted to feel loved, wanted and appreciated, but other than Julian actively choosing to be his friend, everyone else always brushed him off under the guise of humour, not realising that he wasn't playing along with the joke but was actually hurt.
I loved when Atticus finally gave in, and I liked that this wasn't a high spice book, but rather a really slow burn! It made the sex scenes between them actually mean something after all this time. Also, the puppy!!!!!
I'm curious about what Johnny is though. Is he getting a book? Other than that I can't really see why there would be more books in this series because Morpheus is an irredeemable character and everyone else is happily paired up now.
I have found him endlessly entertaining and the relationship between him and Atticus has given me a lot of giggles, but it was so great to see them finally getting to be together!
Morpheus is such a dick... What do you mean you've been torturing a guy for 1000 years and now you're like 'no harm done'?!?!
Ugh!!!
I did actually feel really bad for Yorick because he just wanted to feel loved, wanted and appreciated, but other than Julian actively choosing to be his friend, everyone else always brushed him off under the guise of humour, not realising that he wasn't playing along with the joke but was actually hurt.
I loved when Atticus finally gave in, and I liked that this wasn't a high spice book, but rather a really slow burn! It made the sex scenes between them actually mean something after all this time. Also, the puppy!!!!!
I'm curious about what Johnny is though. Is he getting a book? Other than that I can't really see why there would be more books in this series because Morpheus is an irredeemable character and everyone else is happily paired up now.
Review of advance copy received from Autore
500 years of pining and yearning? Yes, please. Grumpy x Sunshine? 100% yes! I loved to finally know the story behind Yorick and Atticus relationship. The tension between them in the previous books was flirting with a twist. A hate to love that is more "keeping you away because I need you to be safe" to love, which might be frustrating but so rewarding. It did take them 500 years to finally stop whatever the hell they were doing and just be together.
The plot was intense! Their past was definitely filled with lots of twist and obstacles, it's a miracle they're mostly sane after all that. Btw, I need to know more about Johnny like right now, tell me everything, first of all describe him for me in detail. I'll be waiting.
I loved how the whole gang was there to help Yorick and Atticus, knowing full well about what Yorick describes as his "bad boy era". But the gang is made up of the most random individuals so a former bad boy slash thief slash narcissistic unsuccessful gardener was really not the most surprising thing. And Atticus can rival Casimir in grumpiness but you know they have the softest hearts for their beloved, no matter how much they refuse at first to do anything about it.
The amount of time I had to wait for a kiss should be criminal! ONE MILLION YEARS DUNGEON, NO TRIAL! But what happened next made me forgive Alice, like how could I stay mad? Impossible!
Loved it, I had no doubt about that!
The plot was intense! Their past was definitely filled with lots of twist and obstacles, it's a miracle they're mostly sane after all that. Btw, I need to know more about Johnny like right now, tell me everything, first of all describe him for me in detail. I'll be waiting.
I loved how the whole gang was there to help Yorick and Atticus, knowing full well about what Yorick describes as his "bad boy era". But the gang is made up of the most random individuals so a former bad boy slash thief slash narcissistic unsuccessful gardener was really not the most surprising thing. And Atticus can rival Casimir in grumpiness but you know they have the softest hearts for their beloved, no matter how much they refuse at first to do anything about it.
The amount of time I had to wait for a kiss should be criminal! ONE MILLION YEARS DUNGEON, NO TRIAL! But what happened next made me forgive Alice, like how could I stay mad? Impossible!
Loved it, I had no doubt about that!
October 13, 2026
Fun, as usual with Alice's stories, but the silliness/ridiculousness factor was (unfortunately) dialed up to 11 for at least the first half of the book.
3.5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fourth in series (Fanged Mistakes), might be more fun if read in order. Paranormal. Grumpy/sunshine. Found family. Very slow burn. Dual POV.
Yorick may have been in love with his sire for hundreds of years, but Atticus has always pushed him away while Yorick returns again and again for his attention (and his money). Atticus needs his own sire dead, but he’s not really willing to sacrifice Yorick, no matter how much the younger vampire has stolen and annoyed him throughout the years.
Another irrepressibly sunshiney main character from Alice Winters and the serious and sexy love of their lives that cannot escape equally falling no matter how much they deny it. I enjoyed the backstory of Atticus and Yorick, how they have interacted over the years, how the yearning on one side and the secretive caring on the other kept them in each other's lives. The solid loyalty of their friends and unwavering commitment to each other was fun to read, and luckily I never really worried that Atticus and Yorick would end up together. Overall, an entertaining read and I would definitely read more of any side characters the author would like to dream up getting their own book next. 4.5 rounded up
Yorick may have been in love with his sire for hundreds of years, but Atticus has always pushed him away while Yorick returns again and again for his attention (and his money). Atticus needs his own sire dead, but he’s not really willing to sacrifice Yorick, no matter how much the younger vampire has stolen and annoyed him throughout the years.
Another irrepressibly sunshiney main character from Alice Winters and the serious and sexy love of their lives that cannot escape equally falling no matter how much they deny it. I enjoyed the backstory of Atticus and Yorick, how they have interacted over the years, how the yearning on one side and the secretive caring on the other kept them in each other's lives. The solid loyalty of their friends and unwavering commitment to each other was fun to read, and luckily I never really worried that Atticus and Yorick would end up together. Overall, an entertaining read and I would definitely read more of any side characters the author would like to dream up getting their own book next. 4.5 rounded up
October 11, 2026
Los libros de Alice son un lugar seguro y feliz para mi, me gusta saber lo que voy a leer y que la voy a pasar bien, sin embargo, a veces desearía un poco más de variedad, el tema del enemigo del pasado que al final no es tan malo se esta haciendo viejo.
Por cierto, he descubierto que no me gustan los flashbacks (o estos flashbacks eternos), de verdad a veces solo me los salto porque ya se que me van a contar.
Creo que esta serie no es para mi, me gustó muchísimo el libro 1, fue muy divertido y novedoso, pero los demás me han sabido a menos con esas tramas recicladas y que se han contado mejor en otras ocasiones.
La pareja esta bien, pero no me vuela la mente, simplemente no tienen la química de otras parejas de la autora.
2.5 ⭐️
Por cierto, he descubierto que no me gustan los flashbacks (o estos flashbacks eternos), de verdad a veces solo me los salto porque ya se que me van a contar.
Creo que esta serie no es para mi, me gustó muchísimo el libro 1, fue muy divertido y novedoso, pero los demás me han sabido a menos con esas tramas recicladas y que se han contado mejor en otras ocasiones.
La pareja esta bien, pero no me vuela la mente, simplemente no tienen la química de otras parejas de la autora.
2.5 ⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2026
I think the Fanged Mistakes series might just be my favorite series from Alice Winters. But I feel like I probably say that about every series, depending on which book I’ve just finished! But I do love this series and these characters so much!
Yorick and Atticus, ugh, they are too much! Their interactions, especially in the flashback scenes, are so entertaining. Their banter never failed to put a smile on my face. I really liked getting to know more about Atticus and Yorick, to understand what made them the men they are today. Yorick is such an open book when it comes to his feelings for Atticus, while Atticus continuously pushes him away. But when the past comes back to haunt/taunt them, it may be just the push needed to finally bring them together.
Clean Slates and Checkmates was such an entertaining read. It's engaging, fun, a little stressful, a bit violent, and quite compelling. I hope we get another book featuring Yorick and Atticus, because I just know their story isn't over!
Yorick and Atticus, ugh, they are too much! Their interactions, especially in the flashback scenes, are so entertaining. Their banter never failed to put a smile on my face. I really liked getting to know more about Atticus and Yorick, to understand what made them the men they are today. Yorick is such an open book when it comes to his feelings for Atticus, while Atticus continuously pushes him away. But when the past comes back to haunt/taunt them, it may be just the push needed to finally bring them together.
Clean Slates and Checkmates was such an entertaining read. It's engaging, fun, a little stressful, a bit violent, and quite compelling. I hope we get another book featuring Yorick and Atticus, because I just know their story isn't over!
September 29, 2026
A EXTREMELY MARVELOUS AND WITTY READ!!
I craved Yorick's and Atticus's story so very much. Oh my goodness it is phenomenal. This author is well known for their humor in their stories and it was so there and I loved the emotions from the read so very much!! The whole gang is back (Which I adore!! Love the found family in this book and series!), I just freaking love their interactions. I like that we get a closer look into Yorick's life and see how he and Atticus's met and everything. I also adored getting to know more about Atticus. My goodness Atticus has been through so very much because of his maker Morpheus. He is treated so very bad by Morpheus, and Yorick suffers as well. This book has good action, wonderful moments (humor and heartfelt moments!) AND CAST OF PHENOMENAL CHARACTERS. Also I really like Johnny!! Very mysterious and very intriguing, he is tormented by Morpheus as well. What an adventure they go on and more furry puppers involved. I do not want to give spoilers, so I will just say sit back and enjoy this phenomenal read!
I craved Yorick's and Atticus's story so very much. Oh my goodness it is phenomenal. This author is well known for their humor in their stories and it was so there and I loved the emotions from the read so very much!! The whole gang is back (Which I adore!! Love the found family in this book and series!), I just freaking love their interactions. I like that we get a closer look into Yorick's life and see how he and Atticus's met and everything. I also adored getting to know more about Atticus. My goodness Atticus has been through so very much because of his maker Morpheus. He is treated so very bad by Morpheus, and Yorick suffers as well. This book has good action, wonderful moments (humor and heartfelt moments!) AND CAST OF PHENOMENAL CHARACTERS. Also I really like Johnny!! Very mysterious and very intriguing, he is tormented by Morpheus as well. What an adventure they go on and more furry puppers involved. I do not want to give spoilers, so I will just say sit back and enjoy this phenomenal read!
October 2, 2026
OMG I freaking love Yorick!!! Atticus, my sweet broken Atticus. I was so glad when he finally let go & gave in to his feelings for Yorick. You could see when Yorick is initially injured that there was a huge crack in his armor. Morpheus, I hated him. He is such a POS. I would have liked a better outcome. So Yorick almost dies his second death at the beginning of the book and takes a very long time to heal and what is used was horrible. I have a lot of theory's when it comes to Johnny, he needs his own book.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
October 2, 2026
*Wipes tears of laughter* another zinger from Winters. The dynamic between Yorick and Atticus was so fun. We got Julian doing dog costume shenanigans and werewolf ridiculousness. I loved having the gang together solving crimes.
My heart broke for Yorick when he was lonely, he was so pathetic! But it made me root for him harder.
I hate flashbacks to a horrendously tortured past, which Atticus had in spades. But at least these flashbacks were a little more fun than previous books, thanks to Yorick. And the ending made me very happy.
My heart broke for Yorick when he was lonely, he was so pathetic! But it made me root for him harder.
I hate flashbacks to a horrendously tortured past, which Atticus had in spades. But at least these flashbacks were a little more fun than previous books, thanks to Yorick. And the ending made me very happy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.75/5 ⭐ 2/5 🌶️
ARC Review of Clean Slates and Checkmates
*Context first: This is book #4 in the Fanged Mistakes Series. It is not a standalone book. While this particular book focuses on a new couple, they are not new characters nor are all the supporting characters. This story is about Atticus (Casimir's maker) & a vampire he turned nearly 500 years ago named Yorick (who Julian & company have begrudgingly befriended).*
Yorick has been one of my favorite characters since the very first book where he tries his hand at being "the bad guy." He is a 500 year old vampire with a serious case of Peter Pan syndrome. He is hilarious & full of himself but also incredibly smart, sassy & resourceful. Atticus by comparison is a total grump. They differently have a codependent, frenemies kind of relationship.
It's fun to explore both Atticus & Yorick's back stories. They have such great chemistry & are always engaged in witty banter with each other. 500 years is a long time to have explosive feelings for some without doing anything about it. I think anyone who loves a fast-paced, action-adventure style romance will love this book.
Features:
- Frenemies To Lovers
- Spoiled Ancient Vampire
- A Scary Big Bad Who's Impossible To Defeat
- Loyal & Hilarious Friends
- A Supernatural Butler Named Johnny
- Stealing As A Love Language
- Werewolf In A Dog Costume
- It Was Always You
- Hurt/Comfort
- Caretaking
- Dual POV
- Flashbacks
ARC Review of Clean Slates and Checkmates
*Context first: This is book #4 in the Fanged Mistakes Series. It is not a standalone book. While this particular book focuses on a new couple, they are not new characters nor are all the supporting characters. This story is about Atticus (Casimir's maker) & a vampire he turned nearly 500 years ago named Yorick (who Julian & company have begrudgingly befriended).*
Yorick has been one of my favorite characters since the very first book where he tries his hand at being "the bad guy." He is a 500 year old vampire with a serious case of Peter Pan syndrome. He is hilarious & full of himself but also incredibly smart, sassy & resourceful. Atticus by comparison is a total grump. They differently have a codependent, frenemies kind of relationship.
It's fun to explore both Atticus & Yorick's back stories. They have such great chemistry & are always engaged in witty banter with each other. 500 years is a long time to have explosive feelings for some without doing anything about it. I think anyone who loves a fast-paced, action-adventure style romance will love this book.
Features:
- Frenemies To Lovers
- Spoiled Ancient Vampire
- A Scary Big Bad Who's Impossible To Defeat
- Loyal & Hilarious Friends
- A Supernatural Butler Named Johnny
- Stealing As A Love Language
- Werewolf In A Dog Costume
- It Was Always You
- Hurt/Comfort
- Caretaking
- Dual POV
- Flashbacks
September 30, 2026
I expected to love this but I did not expect how much my heart would break for Yorick. He was killing me with his loneliness at some points, something he was very good at ignoring and deflecting. This book was filled with group moments, humor, past trauma, answered questions, a villain to fight, new problems, and romance. I need a book full of light-hearted shenanigans to recover from everybody’s past. I hope there’s another book where we’ll learn more about Johnny too. This remains one of my top Alice series. I can’t wait for the audiobook to be released.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yorick proves to us yet again why you cannot help but love and want to strangle the man all at once. When somone hurts him enoight to get the attention of Atticus real life decisions must be made for the livliehood of all our men. Atticus has kept Yorick at a distance to protect him from his maker, but when Morpheous comes back he doesnt have a choice but let Yorick into his life and allow himself to truly see the man. Yorick having helped in the past gets the assistance from his forced found family to untangle the mess that now is his life. This one is a hell of a ride from start to finish giving Yorick his much needed partner in life.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well, what can I say? This book was as amazing and brilliant as every other in the series. It kept me so enamored, that it went with me everywhere, until I devoured it whole.
Finally we got to see the whole backstory of Atticus and Yorick, and I'll be honest, it was not what I expected, but it was so much better. As usual we got copious amount of hilarious banter, some wolf shenanigans, an enticing plot, in which you actually don't really know who the bad guy is until the end, and very VERY stubborn men. And after this story? I want Johnny's book so much... I just need to know. As well as maybe some ancient vampire? 🫣 I'm just sayin 👀
Overall, I will forever recommend anything and everything Alice writes, it's just absolutely amazing.
Finally we got to see the whole backstory of Atticus and Yorick, and I'll be honest, it was not what I expected, but it was so much better. As usual we got copious amount of hilarious banter, some wolf shenanigans, an enticing plot, in which you actually don't really know who the bad guy is until the end, and very VERY stubborn men. And after this story? I want Johnny's book so much... I just need to know. As well as maybe some ancient vampire? 🫣 I'm just sayin 👀
Overall, I will forever recommend anything and everything Alice writes, it's just absolutely amazing.
September 23, 2026
This world and the VRC are my favourite of Alice’s work. She does vampires so well. Is a queen of the grumpyxsunshine trope.
This addition was so detailed, full of plot twists and sweet moments. The characters are all so enjoyable and I love seeing Yorick get his happiness. I desperately need to know more about Johnny and would love a book for him.
This addition was so detailed, full of plot twists and sweet moments. The characters are all so enjoyable and I love seeing Yorick get his happiness. I desperately need to know more about Johnny and would love a book for him.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fantastic read!
Wow, once again Alice Winters had me turning the pages of her book desperate to see what happens next. I was fully hooked from start to finish loving the story of Atticus and Yorick. There’s plenty of twists and turns and of course the villains doing villain things. Atticus and Yorick do get their well deserved HEA but not without having to fight for it against what seem impossible odds. Fortunately they have plenty of help from the usual crew from the previous books. With the typical hilarity this author is known for which is perfectly balanced with a bit of steam and an enjoyable and engaging plot this is another great addition to the series.
Wow, once again Alice Winters had me turning the pages of her book desperate to see what happens next. I was fully hooked from start to finish loving the story of Atticus and Yorick. There’s plenty of twists and turns and of course the villains doing villain things. Atticus and Yorick do get their well deserved HEA but not without having to fight for it against what seem impossible odds. Fortunately they have plenty of help from the usual crew from the previous books. With the typical hilarity this author is known for which is perfectly balanced with a bit of steam and an enjoyable and engaging plot this is another great addition to the series.
September 30, 2026
The first 30% of this book was five stars amazing. But after this point it went downhill then up a bit then dragged.
The turning point of this book from amazing to just okay was when Yorrick suddenly started behaving (I can’t believe I’m writing this) stupidly. The book had been SO good up to this point. The ending was very flat and I was unamused with the turn of events regarding Niles and Anna and Morpheus (How could Morpheus do that to his own brother??!)
Overall an interesting read that frustrated me at the end. Hope we hear more about Johnny.
PS honestly would’ve given this book a lower rating but I liked it better than Ezio’s book so I can’t rate it lower than that book
The turning point of this book from amazing to just okay was when Yorrick suddenly started behaving (I can’t believe I’m writing this) stupidly. The book had been SO good up to this point. The ending was very flat and I was unamused with the turn of events regarding Niles and Anna and Morpheus (How could Morpheus do that to his own brother??!)
Overall an interesting read that frustrated me at the end. Hope we hear more about Johnny.
PS honestly would’ve given this book a lower rating but I liked it better than Ezio’s book so I can’t rate it lower than that book
October 5, 2026
This was just as amazing as I expected it to be!
Oh Yorick... I'll admit that despite the rather horrendous introduction to him in the first book I really liked him - by the end of the book he was firmly in my mind as someone who was a loveable, if possibly a little psychotic, character. I'm not sure he had a traditional redemption arc per se, but he certainly earned his HEA in a way that only he could (and frankly only an Alice Winters character could). Atticus also intrigued me and I'm glad I had guessed correctly when we first met him that he would be the guy for Yorick. I'm so glad that Julian decided to be Yorick's friend too (decided? fell into? was given no choice?) - underneath all of Yorick's eccentricity and pure chaos was someone who very clearly wanted to be loved and he found that, in a way that was unique to his chaos gremlininess, in spades with this group of people and with the begrudgingly adoring Atticus. I have yet to not enjoy an Alice Winters book but I really do think this is one of my favourite series of them all. It's hilarious, sweet, chaotic, fun, sometimes a little heartbreaking but overall just a really, really good time. You fall in love with the characters because there really isn't any other choice.
Oh Yorick... I'll admit that despite the rather horrendous introduction to him in the first book I really liked him - by the end of the book he was firmly in my mind as someone who was a loveable, if possibly a little psychotic, character. I'm not sure he had a traditional redemption arc per se, but he certainly earned his HEA in a way that only he could (and frankly only an Alice Winters character could). Atticus also intrigued me and I'm glad I had guessed correctly when we first met him that he would be the guy for Yorick. I'm so glad that Julian decided to be Yorick's friend too (decided? fell into? was given no choice?) - underneath all of Yorick's eccentricity and pure chaos was someone who very clearly wanted to be loved and he found that, in a way that was unique to his chaos gremlininess, in spades with this group of people and with the begrudgingly adoring Atticus. I have yet to not enjoy an Alice Winters book but I really do think this is one of my favourite series of them all. It's hilarious, sweet, chaotic, fun, sometimes a little heartbreaking but overall just a really, really good time. You fall in love with the characters because there really isn't any other choice.
October 5, 2026
.
I’m so happy that we got Yorick & Atticus’s book. I’ve been dying to read about them since they were first introduced.
Their backstory was so much interesting than what I thought and they are so beautiful together!
I love seeing everyone together and all helping each other out. Julian being there for Yorick and being his friend.. Julian fought hard with everyone that Yorick needed someone and his act of being a “loner” was just a front, and Julian backed his words with actions as well. I love their friendship. Julian and Yorick need to team up and “annoy” their lovers because I know they’ll get a kick out of it. These two (Yorick and Julian) are going to be thick as thieves together and I would love to read more about it 😂
Also, screw Morpheus, what he did to these two hurt my heart so much. All the pining, yearning and hurt these two had all because Morpheus refused to ask questions??
I wanna know more about Johnny!! How are he and Morpheus connected?? When did Atticus “get” Johnny??
I really enjoyed this story. I cannot wait for it to be brought to life in audio so I can do a reread of the whole series.
I’m so happy that we got Yorick & Atticus’s book. I’ve been dying to read about them since they were first introduced.
Their backstory was so much interesting than what I thought and they are so beautiful together!
I love seeing everyone together and all helping each other out. Julian being there for Yorick and being his friend.. Julian fought hard with everyone that Yorick needed someone and his act of being a “loner” was just a front, and Julian backed his words with actions as well. I love their friendship. Julian and Yorick need to team up and “annoy” their lovers because I know they’ll get a kick out of it. These two (Yorick and Julian) are going to be thick as thieves together and I would love to read more about it 😂
Also, screw Morpheus, what he did to these two hurt my heart so much. All the pining, yearning and hurt these two had all because Morpheus refused to ask questions??
I wanna know more about Johnny!! How are he and Morpheus connected?? When did Atticus “get” Johnny??
I really enjoyed this story. I cannot wait for it to be brought to life in audio so I can do a reread of the whole series.
September 30, 2026
The one thing I can expect when I read an Alice Winters book is that at some point I will laugh so hard there will be pee. Clean Slates and Checkmates is book 4 of the Fanged Mistakes series, and yes, I remembered to wear a pad before reading. This book is about Yorick; he won my heart because of his over-the-top antics that he set on his poor maker, Atticus.
Yorick tried to be the bad guy at the beginning, but for some reason Julian decided that he liked him; therefore, in turn, Casimir can't kill him. As much as Yorick is a thorn in Casimir's side, he set a goal to irritate his Atticus until he may one day kill him. Yorick has lost everyone he has ever loved and feels that he will die alone. He cares more for Atticus and does not think that his maker feels the same for him. Yorick is taken by some bad twins and knows that Atticus would not be coming to save him...at least not because he has feelings for him...right?
Atticus decided it was time for Yorick to pay his dues, and in his true nature, decided that his maker should give him something in return before he died for the cause. Vampires are dying, and while Atticus doesn't care, it seems that it will be a problem he has to deal with. He's thrilled, and Yorick is there for the ride.
Atticus and Yorick have 500 years of history and antics that may or may not be something that they both needed all this time. Clean Slates and Checkmates, like all of Alice Winters ' books, does not disappoint. It's loaded with laughs, action, blood, and fluff.
Yorick tried to be the bad guy at the beginning, but for some reason Julian decided that he liked him; therefore, in turn, Casimir can't kill him. As much as Yorick is a thorn in Casimir's side, he set a goal to irritate his Atticus until he may one day kill him. Yorick has lost everyone he has ever loved and feels that he will die alone. He cares more for Atticus and does not think that his maker feels the same for him. Yorick is taken by some bad twins and knows that Atticus would not be coming to save him...at least not because he has feelings for him...right?
Atticus decided it was time for Yorick to pay his dues, and in his true nature, decided that his maker should give him something in return before he died for the cause. Vampires are dying, and while Atticus doesn't care, it seems that it will be a problem he has to deal with. He's thrilled, and Yorick is there for the ride.
Atticus and Yorick have 500 years of history and antics that may or may not be something that they both needed all this time. Clean Slates and Checkmates, like all of Alice Winters ' books, does not disappoint. It's loaded with laughs, action, blood, and fluff.
October 4, 2026
Yorick and Atticus are perfect together. Yorick likes to pick and prod and Atticus likes to pretend it bothers him. Yorick likes being taken care of and Atticus likes taking care of him. The past has come to haunt them both. The real reason these two aren't mated already. Atticus's sire has a grudge against him and has taken extremes to make him suffer. The worse part is he can't claim Yorick or he may be taken away like so many others. Finding out who's peddling the vampire poison, that's used against Yorick, comes at a cost to someone close but also releases Atticus from blame for other crimes. Now if these two can just survive they'll have a chance at forever.
I really liked Yorick and Atticus together. I felt like they brought out the best in each other. 😍 I liked the story behind how these two met and what has kept them apart. I really liked that there was some LOL moments in a serious story. We got to see the characters from the previous books. I really liked that Casimir called an "important meeting" (that could've been an email) just so he could say f*ck you to Steve. 🤣 I loved the whole series and hope there's more to come. 🙂
I really liked Yorick and Atticus together. I felt like they brought out the best in each other. 😍 I liked the story behind how these two met and what has kept them apart. I really liked that there was some LOL moments in a serious story. We got to see the characters from the previous books. I really liked that Casimir called an "important meeting" (that could've been an email) just so he could say f*ck you to Steve. 🤣 I loved the whole series and hope there's more to come. 🙂
October 13, 2026
I think this is a case of it’s me not the book.
I love Alice’s books but this one I found silly (I know usually I love this stuff).
I can’t explain it but I didn’t like it at all. The reviews are great so I’m putting it down to me being miserable and full of cold. I skimmed a lot of it which would normally get 2* but that seems mean since I think it’s me.
I love Alice’s books but this one I found silly (I know usually I love this stuff).
I can’t explain it but I didn’t like it at all. The reviews are great so I’m putting it down to me being miserable and full of cold. I skimmed a lot of it which would normally get 2* but that seems mean since I think it’s me.
October 12, 2026
Yorick & Atticus
Loved Yorick’s story! Atticus pushes him away repeatedly, part protection and part disbelieving he’s worthy of any love. Yorick, as always, is unrelenting in his pursuit of someone to love. Great story with really fun characters.
Loved Yorick’s story! Atticus pushes him away repeatedly, part protection and part disbelieving he’s worthy of any love. Yorick, as always, is unrelenting in his pursuit of someone to love. Great story with really fun characters.
October 11, 2026
Fantastic book. Yorick has been an adorable puppy throughout the series and I couldn't wait for him to get his happy ending with the grumpy man he loves. I hope this series continues, really love these characters.
October 11, 2026
Brilliant! I loved every minute. I listened the audiobook and it was perfect. I neeed to know more about Johnny!
October 1, 2026
Clean Slates and Checkmates is a great continuation of this series. I did not reread the previous books, but I remembered enough of them to know who everyone was and what their parts in the series are about. I will do a full reread next time so I won’t have the few moments of confusion I felt when some of them were in a scene. I enjoyed seeing those characters again, and getting to know Atticus and Yorick was a real treat.
The outrageous dialogue tickled me, as did the strangely humorous dramatic scenes. This author has a way of making the ridiculous seem acceptable and almost normal.
The action scenes are well done, as are the spicy times. I loved watching these two work towards a real relationship despite their fear for each other and the worry about how others would react to their closeness.
The storyline kept my attention, and I was satisfied with the ending.
I look forward to more from this author.
The outrageous dialogue tickled me, as did the strangely humorous dramatic scenes. This author has a way of making the ridiculous seem acceptable and almost normal.
The action scenes are well done, as are the spicy times. I loved watching these two work towards a real relationship despite their fear for each other and the worry about how others would react to their closeness.
The storyline kept my attention, and I was satisfied with the ending.
I look forward to more from this author.
October 7, 2026
Loved it!!
Clean Slates and Checkmates is a moving story of love through the ages. It’s also just pure fun and funny with all the extended family and frenemies. I’m hoping for a book 5 maybe Morpheus? Alice Winters is a must read author for me.
Clean Slates and Checkmates is a moving story of love through the ages. It’s also just pure fun and funny with all the extended family and frenemies. I’m hoping for a book 5 maybe Morpheus? Alice Winters is a must read author for me.
September 30, 2026
Fourth in the Fanged Mistakes series, it could be read on its own. Paranormal, grumpy/sunshine, found family, very slow burn, and dual POV. I really enjoyed the history between Yorick and Atticus and how their relationship has evolved over the centuries. Yorick’s endless yearning paired perfectly with Atticus’s secretive caring, and watching Atticus slowly give in was so much fun. Yorick is another wonderfully sunshiney character, while Atticus is the serious, sexy love interest who never stood a chance. I also loved their friends' loyalty and the strong found-family vibes. The slow burn is very slow, but I never doubted where these two would end up, so it was fun watching them finally get there.
Looking forward to the next book in this series.
Looking forward to the next book in this series.
October 1, 2026
Yorick and Atticus have a very very very slow burn
OK! I think this romance from Alice Winters has to be the slowest burn that I have ever read. Five hundred years is a long time, but luckily we only get parts of the story. I really like how Ms Winters has sprinkled the modern day story with bits from the past instead of telling the story linearly because it mirrors the on and off episodes in Yorick and Atticus relationship. Of course there is also the overall story of the series and the characters from previous books and does that story ever come to a head in this book. Bad characters, a poison that affects vampire healing, a few too many minions and more intriguing stuff about Atticus’ butler. Do I sense another story?
OK! I think this romance from Alice Winters has to be the slowest burn that I have ever read. Five hundred years is a long time, but luckily we only get parts of the story. I really like how Ms Winters has sprinkled the modern day story with bits from the past instead of telling the story linearly because it mirrors the on and off episodes in Yorick and Atticus relationship. Of course there is also the overall story of the series and the characters from previous books and does that story ever come to a head in this book. Bad characters, a poison that affects vampire healing, a few too many minions and more intriguing stuff about Atticus’ butler. Do I sense another story?
September 30, 2026
Honestly, it was a struggle not to read this book all in one go. I loved being back with these characters, especially getting Yorick's and Atticus' POVs.
Even after 500 years, this is a slow burn because there are a bunch of obstacles in the way, one of them being Atticus' stubbornness.
Yorick, though, is determined to get the man he loves, even if that means putting himself in danger.
This is full of action with Julian, Cassian, Ezio, and Cyrus taking part. I'm left with a bunch of questions, but I'll not give a spoiler! I went back and forth on my opinion of some of the people we meet in this one, and I still haven't decided.
Yorick and Atticus are so sweet once they finally get together. They still have their banter though.
Even after 500 years, this is a slow burn because there are a bunch of obstacles in the way, one of them being Atticus' stubbornness.
Yorick, though, is determined to get the man he loves, even if that means putting himself in danger.
This is full of action with Julian, Cassian, Ezio, and Cyrus taking part. I'm left with a bunch of questions, but I'll not give a spoiler! I went back and forth on my opinion of some of the people we meet in this one, and I still haven't decided.
Yorick and Atticus are so sweet once they finally get together. They still have their banter though.
October 2, 2026
I am absolutely obsessed with this author's books. The snark and banter between her characters is first class I have not found an author yet who can compete. The Twisted crap that she puts these characters through relationships that they have with each other and their group of friends keeps me coming back every time. I really never understood the relationship between Yorick and Atticus but this book fully flushed out everything about their past and why they are the way they are with each other. I truly hope this series continues because I absolutely adore all of these vampires and werewolves.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews