What do you think?
The Myth That Burns #1
Red: An Addictive Fated Mates Wolf Shifter Paranormal Romance
I’m trapped in the woods with the most powerful alpha in history.
Humans and werewolves are on the brink of war. When my brother is killed, there’s only one man who can keep me safe.
Stark Lamont. Leader of a wolf pack living in the wilderness. The youngest alpha in generations. Ruthless and terrifyingly strong. When Stark brings me to his home deep in the forest, it’s clear I’m not welcome. The pack watches me with suspicion, uneasy about the stranger their alpha has brought home.
Stark is meant to be my protector. So why do I feel like his prisoner?
His dark gaze follows my every move. His touch sets my body on fire. And whenever another male gets too close, a vicious growl rips from his throat—as if I belong to him.
I don’t. At least… that’s what I tell myself.
Stark thinks I’m fragile. Powerless. He has no idea I’m hiding a deadly secret.
The longer I stay with him, the harder it becomes to keep the truth buried. Especially as our bond deepens and our enemies close in.
War is coming. My secret could save our pack.
But if Stark discovers what I’m hiding, I won’t just lose his protection. I’ll become his prey.
This searingly addictive shifter romance will set your pulse racing. If you loved the intense fated-mates heat of April L. Moon’s books and the emotional depth of Jen L. Grey’s characters, then Red will leave you breathless.
Humans and werewolves are on the brink of war. When my brother is killed, there’s only one man who can keep me safe.
Stark Lamont. Leader of a wolf pack living in the wilderness. The youngest alpha in generations. Ruthless and terrifyingly strong. When Stark brings me to his home deep in the forest, it’s clear I’m not welcome. The pack watches me with suspicion, uneasy about the stranger their alpha has brought home.
Stark is meant to be my protector. So why do I feel like his prisoner?
His dark gaze follows my every move. His touch sets my body on fire. And whenever another male gets too close, a vicious growl rips from his throat—as if I belong to him.
I don’t. At least… that’s what I tell myself.
Stark thinks I’m fragile. Powerless. He has no idea I’m hiding a deadly secret.
The longer I stay with him, the harder it becomes to keep the truth buried. Especially as our bond deepens and our enemies close in.
War is coming. My secret could save our pack.
But if Stark discovers what I’m hiding, I won’t just lose his protection. I’ll become his prey.
This searingly addictive shifter romance will set your pulse racing. If you loved the intense fated-mates heat of April L. Moon’s books and the emotional depth of Jen L. Grey’s characters, then Red will leave you breathless.
Audible Audio
First published September 16, 2026
About the author
Izzy Barry
1 book100 followersHi, I’m Izzy, and I write paranormal and dark romance with love you’ll believe in. When I’m not writing, I’m spending time with my husband (my high school sweetheart of twelve years), coaching show jumpers, reading, talking to my dog about my characters, and picking up new hobbies. I may have a bit of a hobby problem.
My debut werewolf romance, Red releases September 16, 2026.
My debut werewolf romance, Red releases September 16, 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
September 16, 2026
3.25 ⭐️
Red had me in a very specific reading predicament: I liked the destination but some of the choices made between Point A and Point Red Wolf had me questioning the GPS.
The slow burn delivered, Stark kept making excellent life choices and I was fully in Aloka’s business. Unfortunately, Aloka was gatekeeping the answers and getting annoyed nobody knew them.
I was entertained. I was intrigued. I was periodically exasperated.
What worked for me
(aka: the Alpha, the tension and the wolf gossip)
The Alpha Was Alpha-ing
Stark was carrying Aloka, the pack, and occasionally my will to continue.
His protectiveness worked because it gradually shifted from obligation into something deeply personal. He shadowed her runs, camped outside her bedroom, ignored the Elders and killed the wolves who hurt her. Casual protector behaviour.
But it was his restraint that really sold me.
Even once they acknowledged each other as mates, Stark refused to treat Aloka’s healing like permission to hurt her. This giant Alpha was literally researching how to be with her safely. Consent king behaviour.
“I never want to be the reason you have to mend yourself.”
Sir. You may remain.
Scenting, Staring, Snitching
Early on, the romance had me seated and minding my business.
I didn’t need pages of internal thirsting when their behaviour was already snitching - jealousy, scenting, lingering touches, mutual caretaking and Stark somehow always materialising wherever Aloka happened to be. Subtle, sir.
The slow burn was doing exactly what it needed to do. The chemistry was there.
Communication, unfortunately, would soon require divine intervention.
Being Red
The Red-wolf lore arrived and suddenly I had questions, theories and a personal investment in ancient wolf gossip.
Wolves remembered Reds as gifted healers. Humans remembered them as fire-born monsters. History suggested being Red was generally terrible for your life expectancy. Suddenly Aloka’s commitment to secrecy felt considerably less dramatic. She had reasons.
Which made her final reveal to Stark hit exactly where it needed to. She finally showed him the wolf she’d spent her whole life hiding and, instead of fear, got: cool, race me.
From secret shifts alone to wolf zoomies with her mate. Disgustingly wholesome.
“And the best part is, he loves the real me.”
Yeah. That was always the destination this story needed.
Where it lost me
(aka: trust issues, timing issues, me issues)
Please Consult the Information You Never Gave Him
Aloka had very valid reasons to hide. She was raised to believe discovery meant death and the Elders nearly killing her while thinking she was basically human certainly didn’t disprove the theory. Girl had receipts.
Where I struggled was when secrecy stopped being something Aloka used to survive and became something everyone else had to navigate without knowing it existed.
She resented Stark treating her as defenseless while conveniently forgetting he didn’t know she was an enormous magical wolf with healing, telepathy and murder capabilities. His Alpha control issues absolutely needed checking.
But ma’am, he cannot make decisions using information stored exclusively in your head.
Slow Burn Became Slow Disclosure
This is where the slow burn started burning my patience instead.
The Nikki misunderstanding lived far longer than it deserved. Jocko and Kiya finally tell Aloka that Stark and Nikki aren’t mates, she talks to Stark....and voilà - resolved. At 77%.
We could’ve done this WHEN?
That became the pattern - tension builds, plot interrupts, romance goes into storage, another misunderstanding arrives. My patience was fighting for its life.
By 95%, Stark was still researching how to safely consummate their relationship because Aloka hadn’t told him she was also a werewolf.
“How long are you going to make me wait?”
Ma’am.
HE wasn’t making you wait.
Good News: She Told Him. Bad News: We’re Leaving.
And because this book enjoys testing me, the final reveal actually worked.
My problem wasn’t the breakthrough. It was when we got it.
Aloka was ready to call Stark her mate long before she was ready to let him know his mate. That tension was fascinating and I wanted more time with them on the other side of it.
I’m not bothered that the wider Red-wolf conflict remains unresolved. The cohorts are still hunting a Red wolf whose identity remains hidden from them, so there’s clearly more story to tell.
I just wanted to marinate in this book’s emotional payoff a little.
The book gave me a light drizzle.
Final Thoughts
Red landed in that frustrating middle ground where I could see the version I might have loved.
Stark worked. The chemistry worked. The Red mythology had me nosy. But the second half spent too much time delaying conversations and emotional payoffs I was already ready for.
Still, the cohorts are hunting a legendary Red wolf who is casually living under an Alpha’s roof while everyone thinks she’s basically human.
If there’s a Book Two, I may return. For research purposes. Specifically Stark’s heat-management strategy.
Final Verdict
3.25 ⭐️ - Stark was protecting. Aloka was withholding. I was aging.
Release the werewolf tension, I said. It’ll be fun, I said.
Stark: “I wish you’d told me earlier.”
Me too, king. Me too.
Tropes and Vibes:
• Werewolf romance
• Secret legendary Red-wolf FMC
• Hidden fire and healing magic
• Forced proximity
• Protective, possessive Alpha MMC
• Slow burn and mates
• Scenting and supernatural attraction
• Mutual caretaking
• Secret identity and trust issues
• Grief, belonging and being truly known
• Pack lore, legends and ancient secrets
• Ongoing Red-wolf hunt / series setup
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Pre-read:
She’s human. He’s the Alpha forced to protect her. They don’t want each other.
Anyway, I’ve seen enough. Release the werewolf tension 🐺✨️
Red had me in a very specific reading predicament: I liked the destination but some of the choices made between Point A and Point Red Wolf had me questioning the GPS.
The slow burn delivered, Stark kept making excellent life choices and I was fully in Aloka’s business. Unfortunately, Aloka was gatekeeping the answers and getting annoyed nobody knew them.
I was entertained. I was intrigued. I was periodically exasperated.
What worked for me
(aka: the Alpha, the tension and the wolf gossip)
The Alpha Was Alpha-ing
Stark was carrying Aloka, the pack, and occasionally my will to continue.
His protectiveness worked because it gradually shifted from obligation into something deeply personal. He shadowed her runs, camped outside her bedroom, ignored the Elders and killed the wolves who hurt her. Casual protector behaviour.
But it was his restraint that really sold me.
Even once they acknowledged each other as mates, Stark refused to treat Aloka’s healing like permission to hurt her. This giant Alpha was literally researching how to be with her safely. Consent king behaviour.
“I never want to be the reason you have to mend yourself.”
Sir. You may remain.
Scenting, Staring, Snitching
Early on, the romance had me seated and minding my business.
I didn’t need pages of internal thirsting when their behaviour was already snitching - jealousy, scenting, lingering touches, mutual caretaking and Stark somehow always materialising wherever Aloka happened to be. Subtle, sir.
The slow burn was doing exactly what it needed to do. The chemistry was there.
Communication, unfortunately, would soon require divine intervention.
Being Red
The Red-wolf lore arrived and suddenly I had questions, theories and a personal investment in ancient wolf gossip.
Wolves remembered Reds as gifted healers. Humans remembered them as fire-born monsters. History suggested being Red was generally terrible for your life expectancy. Suddenly Aloka’s commitment to secrecy felt considerably less dramatic. She had reasons.
Which made her final reveal to Stark hit exactly where it needed to. She finally showed him the wolf she’d spent her whole life hiding and, instead of fear, got: cool, race me.
From secret shifts alone to wolf zoomies with her mate. Disgustingly wholesome.
“And the best part is, he loves the real me.”
Yeah. That was always the destination this story needed.
Where it lost me
(aka: trust issues, timing issues, me issues)
Please Consult the Information You Never Gave Him
Aloka had very valid reasons to hide. She was raised to believe discovery meant death and the Elders nearly killing her while thinking she was basically human certainly didn’t disprove the theory. Girl had receipts.
Where I struggled was when secrecy stopped being something Aloka used to survive and became something everyone else had to navigate without knowing it existed.
She resented Stark treating her as defenseless while conveniently forgetting he didn’t know she was an enormous magical wolf with healing, telepathy and murder capabilities. His Alpha control issues absolutely needed checking.
But ma’am, he cannot make decisions using information stored exclusively in your head.
Slow Burn Became Slow Disclosure
This is where the slow burn started burning my patience instead.
The Nikki misunderstanding lived far longer than it deserved. Jocko and Kiya finally tell Aloka that Stark and Nikki aren’t mates, she talks to Stark....and voilà - resolved. At 77%.
We could’ve done this WHEN?
That became the pattern - tension builds, plot interrupts, romance goes into storage, another misunderstanding arrives. My patience was fighting for its life.
By 95%, Stark was still researching how to safely consummate their relationship because Aloka hadn’t told him she was also a werewolf.
“How long are you going to make me wait?”
Ma’am.
HE wasn’t making you wait.
Good News: She Told Him. Bad News: We’re Leaving.
And because this book enjoys testing me, the final reveal actually worked.
My problem wasn’t the breakthrough. It was when we got it.
Aloka was ready to call Stark her mate long before she was ready to let him know his mate. That tension was fascinating and I wanted more time with them on the other side of it.
I’m not bothered that the wider Red-wolf conflict remains unresolved. The cohorts are still hunting a Red wolf whose identity remains hidden from them, so there’s clearly more story to tell.
I just wanted to marinate in this book’s emotional payoff a little.
The book gave me a light drizzle.
Final Thoughts
Red landed in that frustrating middle ground where I could see the version I might have loved.
Stark worked. The chemistry worked. The Red mythology had me nosy. But the second half spent too much time delaying conversations and emotional payoffs I was already ready for.
Still, the cohorts are hunting a legendary Red wolf who is casually living under an Alpha’s roof while everyone thinks she’s basically human.
If there’s a Book Two, I may return. For research purposes. Specifically Stark’s heat-management strategy.
Final Verdict
3.25 ⭐️ - Stark was protecting. Aloka was withholding. I was aging.
Release the werewolf tension, I said. It’ll be fun, I said.
Stark: “I wish you’d told me earlier.”
Me too, king. Me too.
Tropes and Vibes:
• Werewolf romance
• Secret legendary Red-wolf FMC
• Hidden fire and healing magic
• Forced proximity
• Protective, possessive Alpha MMC
• Slow burn and mates
• Scenting and supernatural attraction
• Mutual caretaking
• Secret identity and trust issues
• Grief, belonging and being truly known
• Pack lore, legends and ancient secrets
• Ongoing Red-wolf hunt / series setup
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Pre-read:
She’s human. He’s the Alpha forced to protect her. They don’t want each other.
Anyway, I’ve seen enough. Release the werewolf tension 🐺✨️
September 21, 2026
3.5 stars
enjoyable but a girl can only take so much miscommunication before she goes insane <3
rtc
enjoyable but a girl can only take so much miscommunication before she goes insane <3
rtc
April 2, 2026
First and foremost, I am so incredibly thankful to receive an ARC of RED.
I honestly can’t remember a time a book hooked me this hard within the first two chapters. I started it on my travels to a week-long conference, and it was a distraction the entire time. All I wanted to do was get back to reading and find out what happened next.
I finished this book in 3 days, though I truly believe that if it wasn’t for life getting in the way (and reading way too late into the night; hitting myself in the face with my Kindle a few times before finally putting it down), I would have easily devoured it in one sitting.
There is something really special about the way that Izzy writes. It has everything I love about a political fantasy and dark romance, but without the dense, slow-moving world-building and politics. My usual complaint with a political fantasy is how slow it progresses, and sometimes it can feel like the political torment never ends. This was not the case here; Aloka’s story, character and relationships progressed naturally throughout the book, with enough story to keep you hooked without ever feeling dragged out.
This one is a slow burn, but the tension? Absolute chef’s kiss. So much so that I genuinely gaslit myself into the male love interest being someone else. You never really know what Aloka will choose to do next, or who she will choose to trust - and that unpredictably makes it impossible to put down.
As for the ending, I still can’t decide if the ending wrapped up too quickly or if I just did not want the book to end. What I do love is that RED doesn’t leave you on a brutal cliff hanger, especially with the duology not yet complete. There is enough closure to satisfy readers, but it still leaves plenty of room for readers to theorise and imagine what could happen next.
If you haven’t pre-ordered it yet, this is your sign
Also, read the acknowledgements. Congratulations, Izzy, in so soooo many ways. <3
I honestly can’t remember a time a book hooked me this hard within the first two chapters. I started it on my travels to a week-long conference, and it was a distraction the entire time. All I wanted to do was get back to reading and find out what happened next.
I finished this book in 3 days, though I truly believe that if it wasn’t for life getting in the way (and reading way too late into the night; hitting myself in the face with my Kindle a few times before finally putting it down), I would have easily devoured it in one sitting.
There is something really special about the way that Izzy writes. It has everything I love about a political fantasy and dark romance, but without the dense, slow-moving world-building and politics. My usual complaint with a political fantasy is how slow it progresses, and sometimes it can feel like the political torment never ends. This was not the case here; Aloka’s story, character and relationships progressed naturally throughout the book, with enough story to keep you hooked without ever feeling dragged out.
This one is a slow burn, but the tension? Absolute chef’s kiss. So much so that I genuinely gaslit myself into the male love interest being someone else. You never really know what Aloka will choose to do next, or who she will choose to trust - and that unpredictably makes it impossible to put down.
As for the ending, I still can’t decide if the ending wrapped up too quickly or if I just did not want the book to end. What I do love is that RED doesn’t leave you on a brutal cliff hanger, especially with the duology not yet complete. There is enough closure to satisfy readers, but it still leaves plenty of room for readers to theorise and imagine what could happen next.
If you haven’t pre-ordered it yet, this is your sign
Also, read the acknowledgements. Congratulations, Izzy, in so soooo many ways. <3
August 27, 2026
𝙃𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙧𝙘 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙜𝙞𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧
Red is a story of humans and Warewolves constantly bordering on war. Aloka has been sent to live with Alpha stark after her brother was killed by humans. Thrown into a house filled with warewolves who only see her as a fragile human, Aloka is on the brink. No longer allowed in her own home alone, she lives a life being hated by those around her while being drawn to Stark. But non of them realise she is probably the key to winning this war.
This was an un-putdownable read, I inhaled this book like oxygen. I loved the secrets being kept throughout, the plot of being on the brink of war.
Two things that had me screaming at the book
1. The miscommunication/ lack of communication trope, this always has me shouting. I fully understand the need for it in these pages, but it will still aggravate me (this coming from a gal who will not communicate, it’s called hypocrisy) but it did not take away from the enjoyment of reading.
2. Stark may be a very big attractive Alpha, but the way he didn’t add up all the signs had me calling this wolf some names! Again though, still enjoyed the book, even if he is missing some smarts.
This was a book where you can see where the plot is going but it is so enjoyable following along, it’s a gripping, intense and quick read, because once it has ahold of you, it’s not gonna let go.
Red is a story of humans and Warewolves constantly bordering on war. Aloka has been sent to live with Alpha stark after her brother was killed by humans. Thrown into a house filled with warewolves who only see her as a fragile human, Aloka is on the brink. No longer allowed in her own home alone, she lives a life being hated by those around her while being drawn to Stark. But non of them realise she is probably the key to winning this war.
This was an un-putdownable read, I inhaled this book like oxygen. I loved the secrets being kept throughout, the plot of being on the brink of war.
Two things that had me screaming at the book
1. The miscommunication/ lack of communication trope, this always has me shouting. I fully understand the need for it in these pages, but it will still aggravate me (this coming from a gal who will not communicate, it’s called hypocrisy) but it did not take away from the enjoyment of reading.
2. Stark may be a very big attractive Alpha, but the way he didn’t add up all the signs had me calling this wolf some names! Again though, still enjoyed the book, even if he is missing some smarts.
This was a book where you can see where the plot is going but it is so enjoyable following along, it’s a gripping, intense and quick read, because once it has ahold of you, it’s not gonna let go.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Slow Burn With Teeth
'Red' is a strong start to ‘The Myth That Burns’, combining werewolf shifters, hidden identities, pack politics and a slow burn romance that steadily builds tension without rushing the relationship.
Aloka is grieving, angry and determined to get revenge, only to find herself forced into the territory of a pack that sees her as a fragile human liability. Stark, the Alpha responsible for protecting her, makes it very clear that her presence is unwanted. Naturally, putting these two in close proximity is exactly the kind of situation that is bound to create problems.
The slow burn between Aloka and Stark is the strongest element of the story. Their chemistry develops gradually, with plenty of suspicion, frustration and restrained attraction along the way. The touch and die energy works particularly well because neither character simply gives in to their feelings. Every small shift in their relationship feels earned, and the tension keeps building throughout the story.
Aloka's hidden identity adds another layer of intrigue. There is clearly far more to her than the pack believes, and the mystery surrounding her past and abilities keeps the plot interesting. The pack politics and looming threat of war also give the story enough substance beyond the romance, while the found family element adds some warmth to an otherwise dangerous environment.
The pacing is not entirely flawless, however. The ending feels noticeably rushed compared to the careful build up throughout the rest of the book. Several developments happen in quick succession, where a little more space would have allowed the conclusion to feel more satisfying and better earned. It is a noticeable weakness, especially after such a deliberate build up.
Fortunately, the rest of the book more than makes up for it. The characters are compelling, the romantic tension is excellent, and the combination of secrets, werewolf lore and pack politics makes the story difficult to put down. There is also enough left unresolved to make the next instalment an easy addition to the reading list.
'Red' delivers a compelling heroine, an intriguing Alpha, a genuinely enjoyable slow burn and a world with plenty of room to expand. The rushed ending keeps it from being completely flawless, but it does not diminish how enjoyable the overall reading experience is.
ARC received from Books & Bloom as part of the book tour. This is my honest review.
Werewolf Shifters | Hidden Identity | Forced Proximity | Found Family | Slow Burn | Touch and Die Energy | Pack Politics
'Red' is a strong start to ‘The Myth That Burns’, combining werewolf shifters, hidden identities, pack politics and a slow burn romance that steadily builds tension without rushing the relationship.
Aloka is grieving, angry and determined to get revenge, only to find herself forced into the territory of a pack that sees her as a fragile human liability. Stark, the Alpha responsible for protecting her, makes it very clear that her presence is unwanted. Naturally, putting these two in close proximity is exactly the kind of situation that is bound to create problems.
The slow burn between Aloka and Stark is the strongest element of the story. Their chemistry develops gradually, with plenty of suspicion, frustration and restrained attraction along the way. The touch and die energy works particularly well because neither character simply gives in to their feelings. Every small shift in their relationship feels earned, and the tension keeps building throughout the story.
Aloka's hidden identity adds another layer of intrigue. There is clearly far more to her than the pack believes, and the mystery surrounding her past and abilities keeps the plot interesting. The pack politics and looming threat of war also give the story enough substance beyond the romance, while the found family element adds some warmth to an otherwise dangerous environment.
The pacing is not entirely flawless, however. The ending feels noticeably rushed compared to the careful build up throughout the rest of the book. Several developments happen in quick succession, where a little more space would have allowed the conclusion to feel more satisfying and better earned. It is a noticeable weakness, especially after such a deliberate build up.
Fortunately, the rest of the book more than makes up for it. The characters are compelling, the romantic tension is excellent, and the combination of secrets, werewolf lore and pack politics makes the story difficult to put down. There is also enough left unresolved to make the next instalment an easy addition to the reading list.
'Red' delivers a compelling heroine, an intriguing Alpha, a genuinely enjoyable slow burn and a world with plenty of room to expand. The rushed ending keeps it from being completely flawless, but it does not diminish how enjoyable the overall reading experience is.
ARC received from Books & Bloom as part of the book tour. This is my honest review.
Werewolf Shifters | Hidden Identity | Forced Proximity | Found Family | Slow Burn | Touch and Die Energy | Pack Politics
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely ate this book up. It was an incredible read!! I love how supportive her brother was of her secret and how he tried to help train her because she used that in the future.
I absolutely hated the Elders!!! I really loved Stark!!! And Jocko was absolutely a great big brother figure!! I also hope we get to see Gretcha again and she learns to help the wolf's
The world building was great, it was well written and it had a slow burn to it. I enjoyed this story very much, Im in my wolf shifter era now lol I highly recommend this book
I absolutely hated the Elders!!! I really loved Stark!!! And Jocko was absolutely a great big brother figure!! I also hope we get to see Gretcha again and she learns to help the wolf's
The world building was great, it was well written and it had a slow burn to it. I enjoyed this story very much, Im in my wolf shifter era now lol I highly recommend this book
September 15, 2026
Loved this one! It was an amazing debut novel.
Check out my Instagram to see the package I received!
read if you like:
🖤 paranormal romance
❤️ werewolf shifters
🖤 forced proximity
❤️ slow burn
🖤 found family
❤️ hidden identity
Check out my Instagram to see the package I received!
read if you like:
🖤 paranormal romance
❤️ werewolf shifters
🖤 forced proximity
❤️ slow burn
🖤 found family
❤️ hidden identity
July 29, 2026
Teenage me who stayed up until 3 a.m. reading werewolf romances on Wattpad is absolutely LOSING HER MIND over this book.
The slow burn? SLOOOOOOOOW. Like, “please for the love of everything, just kiss already” slow. Every lingering look, every almost-touch, every ounce of tension had me internally screaming. But damn, is the yearning aaaamazing!!
And Stark… excuse me while I develop yet another fictional alpha obsession. He is the perfect protective, overbearing, “you’re staying where I can keep an eye on you” Alpha and I ate up every single second of it. The man growls and suddenly all my common sense leaves the building.
I loved watching Aloka find her footing in a world that refuses to accept her while still refusing to back down. The suspense within this book had me questioning everything I thought I knew about what was going to happen next. By the end, I was already desperate to know what happens in the next book.
If you grew up inhaling werewolf romances on Wattpad and have been chasing that feeling ever since… congratulations. You found it. This brought back every reason I fell in love with this genre in the first place but with stronger writing, incredible world building and characters I am not ready to say goodbye to.
Now excuse me while I go stare at a wall until I can get my hands on the next book.
A huge huge thank for to Izzy Barry for the gifted special arc. I will forever treasure being one of the first people to be able to physically hold this books in their hands.
The slow burn? SLOOOOOOOOW. Like, “please for the love of everything, just kiss already” slow. Every lingering look, every almost-touch, every ounce of tension had me internally screaming. But damn, is the yearning aaaamazing!!
And Stark… excuse me while I develop yet another fictional alpha obsession. He is the perfect protective, overbearing, “you’re staying where I can keep an eye on you” Alpha and I ate up every single second of it. The man growls and suddenly all my common sense leaves the building.
I loved watching Aloka find her footing in a world that refuses to accept her while still refusing to back down. The suspense within this book had me questioning everything I thought I knew about what was going to happen next. By the end, I was already desperate to know what happens in the next book.
If you grew up inhaling werewolf romances on Wattpad and have been chasing that feeling ever since… congratulations. You found it. This brought back every reason I fell in love with this genre in the first place but with stronger writing, incredible world building and characters I am not ready to say goodbye to.
Now excuse me while I go stare at a wall until I can get my hands on the next book.
A huge huge thank for to Izzy Barry for the gifted special arc. I will forever treasure being one of the first people to be able to physically hold this books in their hands.
September 20, 2026
I love paranormal romance and I love werewolves, so when presented with the opportunity to read Izzy Barry’s debut Red, I was immediately intrigued and excited! I started this book and then couldn’t put it down, so I finished it in one day. I had so much fun reading about Aloka and Stark. The tension throughout this whole book was so evident — Stark figured it out so fast and I was waiting for Aloka to connect the dots and give in. I always enjoy the forced proximity trope and thought Izzy did a great job with having Stark and Aloka live together but in unique circumstances of there also constantly being other people in the house. I loved the found family in this story as well. After moving into Stark’s house after the loss of her brother, Pratt, Aloka meets a new pack full of new people, and the relationships she forms are really sweet. My favorite side character is, of course, Jocko. He really is the best of friends, to both Stark and Aloka. The human-wolf war was a really cool aspect of this book and I loved the politics and war tactics aspect. Aloka is so much smarter and in tune with things than anyone realizes, and the challenges she undertakes to help the pack are epic. Now, throughout the book Aloka is hiding a secret. She is the only person alive who knows her true identity, which blends myth and legend with reality and puts her life at risk. The secret is kept from readers for about half of the book and, once revealed, adds a lot of color to the story. I had a great time reading about Aloka as she navigated a new life, her secret, and falling in love. And I love Stark — Alpha warrior loverboy for the win.
For those reading this review, I will note that while reading the book, I came across a number of grammatical errors, but as this is indie published and there was no official editor, I feel that this should not play into my overall rating. I loved the content of the book, so my review is purely based on that.
Thank you to Izzy Barry for the advanced copy! I look forward to reading the sequel in this duology and finding out what’s next for Stark and Aloka!
For those reading this review, I will note that while reading the book, I came across a number of grammatical errors, but as this is indie published and there was no official editor, I feel that this should not play into my overall rating. I loved the content of the book, so my review is purely based on that.
Thank you to Izzy Barry for the advanced copy! I look forward to reading the sequel in this duology and finding out what’s next for Stark and Aloka!
September 18, 2026
3 stars. While I mostly liked this, the miscommunication trope drove me insane.
-I liked the take on shifters vs humans, though this book is severely lacking world building. The two populations coexist peacefully but also don't? This is the main factor of the larger plot and its just never really described or explained.
- I liked the FMC's secret and how she fits into the universe, but the secret keeping did get a bit bothersome near the end. The FMC was ok, her entire internal monologue is quite repetitive. Keep Secret, Keep Secret, MMC is hot, Keep Secret, Miss Brother, Keep Secret. I never got overtly annoyed with her, but I also never found her overly interesting, other than her secret.
- The MMC could be good, but he has major communication issues. He gets angry or upset and just leaves or gives the silent treatment. Its infuriating.
- The overarching conflict between the FMC and MMC is plagued by miscommunication and the just complete lack of any communication. So many times I thought, maybe if you just spoke to each other we could ALL move on. The current life situations the main characters find themselves in at the beginning of the book is plenty conflict to create a slow burn. The miscommunication is lazy and as a reader, I was just waiting for the obvious truth to finally be spoken aloud.
- Sometimes the writing didn't quite come together (I noticed it more in the beginning). It was odd, it felt abrupt. Like I had missed 2 sentences that explained what was happening. Many times I thought "wait, what?" and had to reread.
I am a sucker for shifter romances, so I flew through this and did like the fantasy aspect. I will keep any eye out for book 2. If its a similar length, I will undoubtedly read it too.
-I liked the take on shifters vs humans, though this book is severely lacking world building. The two populations coexist peacefully but also don't? This is the main factor of the larger plot and its just never really described or explained.
- I liked the FMC's secret and how she fits into the universe, but the secret keeping did get a bit bothersome near the end. The FMC was ok, her entire internal monologue is quite repetitive. Keep Secret, Keep Secret, MMC is hot, Keep Secret, Miss Brother, Keep Secret. I never got overtly annoyed with her, but I also never found her overly interesting, other than her secret.
- The MMC could be good, but he has major communication issues. He gets angry or upset and just leaves or gives the silent treatment. Its infuriating.
- The overarching conflict between the FMC and MMC is plagued by miscommunication and the just complete lack of any communication. So many times I thought, maybe if you just spoke to each other we could ALL move on. The current life situations the main characters find themselves in at the beginning of the book is plenty conflict to create a slow burn. The miscommunication is lazy and as a reader, I was just waiting for the obvious truth to finally be spoken aloud.
- Sometimes the writing didn't quite come together (I noticed it more in the beginning). It was odd, it felt abrupt. Like I had missed 2 sentences that explained what was happening. Many times I thought "wait, what?" and had to reread.
I am a sucker for shifter romances, so I flew through this and did like the fantasy aspect. I will keep any eye out for book 2. If its a similar length, I will undoubtedly read it too.
May 16, 2026
First let me say that I loved the names for both MCs and im absolutely obsessed with this cover ! I’m always on the lookout for PR/ Shifter romance especially werewolves ones. RED has absolutely everything I love packed into one book, secrets, heartbreak and a bit of angst. ✋ Aloka lost the last person who knew the true her and her relationship with her brother is felt through the story despite him being gone which I loved the way that love and feelings were portrayed.
She’s now alone in a world that makes her feel unwelcomed and that broke my heart but thats usually what gets me, she’s not a person who lets her circumstances put her down.
Stark is such a broody alpha that I ended up warming up to through out the story. He wasn’t exactly a big jerk but he came off as one due to the confusion or let’s say circumstances that these two are in. We have lovable side characters that I wish I could jump in and hug for treating Alo with true kindness.
I honestly don’t know what to make of this ending but I will say it left me wanting MORE. ALSO, I read this in a day couldn’t put it down. So Izzy Barry thank you so much you now have a new fan who’s ready for when the next comes. 🤍
Aloka has been thrown into a bit of a predicament, she needs to keep herself hidden but wears her self thin doing so, with her brothers gone she has no one. Stark is left to protect her but it might be a bit more than just an obligation. With her brothers murder out there Aloka is determined to help out the ones that don’t see to welcome her for him, to protect the only place she’s ever known as home.
She’s now alone in a world that makes her feel unwelcomed and that broke my heart but thats usually what gets me, she’s not a person who lets her circumstances put her down.
Stark is such a broody alpha that I ended up warming up to through out the story. He wasn’t exactly a big jerk but he came off as one due to the confusion or let’s say circumstances that these two are in. We have lovable side characters that I wish I could jump in and hug for treating Alo with true kindness.
I honestly don’t know what to make of this ending but I will say it left me wanting MORE. ALSO, I read this in a day couldn’t put it down. So Izzy Barry thank you so much you now have a new fan who’s ready for when the next comes. 🤍
Aloka has been thrown into a bit of a predicament, she needs to keep herself hidden but wears her self thin doing so, with her brothers gone she has no one. Stark is left to protect her but it might be a bit more than just an obligation. With her brothers murder out there Aloka is determined to help out the ones that don’t see to welcome her for him, to protect the only place she’s ever known as home.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2026
I love a good shifter romance. Give me werewolves, broody Alphas, pack dynamics, possessiveness, loyalty, and a slow-burn romance, and I am there. 🐺❤️ So when I read the premise of Red, I was genuinely excited to dive in.
Aloka had been raised to hide what she was. After losing her brother and being shaped by years of tragedy, isolation, and her mother’s warnings, she had learned to keep everyone at arm’s length. So when she was forced into the home of Stark Lamont, an unyielding Alpha who had been tasked with protecting her, the setup had everything I usually love. 🔥
Stark was everything I expected from a broody Alpha. Quiet, intimidating, protective, and clearly fighting feelings he didn’t want to acknowledge. 😏🐺 The tension between him and Aloka had some really good moments, especially as the walls between them slowly started to crack.
And the whole “she’s not what everyone thinks she is” mystery had me curious. With war looming, secrets surrounding Aloka’s identity, pack politics, and legends coming back into play, there was definitely a lot happening beneath the surface. 🔥🌙
Unfortunately, the pacing was where things started to lose me. Some sections felt like they dragged on, while other parts suddenly threw a lot of information at me. There were moments when certain details felt incredibly important, only for them to seemingly disappear from the story later. That made the overall plot feel uneven for me. 📖
My biggest struggle, though, was Aloka.
I completely understood why she behaved the way she did. She had been taught from a young age not to trust people, not to get close, and never to reveal her true nature. Given everything she had experienced, her walls made sense. 💔
But eventually, I found it difficult to connect with her.
She often became frustrated with people for keeping secrets from her while she was keeping major secrets from them herself. She wanted others to trust her strength, yet repeatedly hid that strength. Even when people genuinely tried to help her, she pushed them away. And after a while, instead of feeling protective of her, I found myself getting frustrated with her. 😭
There were also moments where the character dynamics felt contradictory, and that made it harder for me to become emotionally invested in the romance.
I really wanted to love this one. The shifter romance + mysterious FMC + broody Alpha + forbidden secrets + looming war combination was basically designed for me. 🐺🔥 But unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite give me the emotional connection I was hoping for.
Still, I could see the potential in the world and the story, and I think readers who enjoy paranormal romance with lots of secrets, pack dynamics, and a slow-burn relationship may find more to love here than I did. ❤️
Perfect for readers who love:
✨ Shifter/werewolf romance
🔥 Broody Alpha heroes
❤️ Slow-burn romance
🌙 Hidden identities & dangerous secrets
🐺 Pack dynamics & loyalty
⚔️ War, legends & supernatural politics
💔 Grieving heroines
😏 Protective Alpha energy
🔥 “There’s something different about her” mysteries
Thank you to Izzy Barry and RR Book Tours for the opportunity to read this ARC. 💕📚
Aloka had been raised to hide what she was. After losing her brother and being shaped by years of tragedy, isolation, and her mother’s warnings, she had learned to keep everyone at arm’s length. So when she was forced into the home of Stark Lamont, an unyielding Alpha who had been tasked with protecting her, the setup had everything I usually love. 🔥
Stark was everything I expected from a broody Alpha. Quiet, intimidating, protective, and clearly fighting feelings he didn’t want to acknowledge. 😏🐺 The tension between him and Aloka had some really good moments, especially as the walls between them slowly started to crack.
And the whole “she’s not what everyone thinks she is” mystery had me curious. With war looming, secrets surrounding Aloka’s identity, pack politics, and legends coming back into play, there was definitely a lot happening beneath the surface. 🔥🌙
Unfortunately, the pacing was where things started to lose me. Some sections felt like they dragged on, while other parts suddenly threw a lot of information at me. There were moments when certain details felt incredibly important, only for them to seemingly disappear from the story later. That made the overall plot feel uneven for me. 📖
My biggest struggle, though, was Aloka.
I completely understood why she behaved the way she did. She had been taught from a young age not to trust people, not to get close, and never to reveal her true nature. Given everything she had experienced, her walls made sense. 💔
But eventually, I found it difficult to connect with her.
She often became frustrated with people for keeping secrets from her while she was keeping major secrets from them herself. She wanted others to trust her strength, yet repeatedly hid that strength. Even when people genuinely tried to help her, she pushed them away. And after a while, instead of feeling protective of her, I found myself getting frustrated with her. 😭
There were also moments where the character dynamics felt contradictory, and that made it harder for me to become emotionally invested in the romance.
I really wanted to love this one. The shifter romance + mysterious FMC + broody Alpha + forbidden secrets + looming war combination was basically designed for me. 🐺🔥 But unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite give me the emotional connection I was hoping for.
Still, I could see the potential in the world and the story, and I think readers who enjoy paranormal romance with lots of secrets, pack dynamics, and a slow-burn relationship may find more to love here than I did. ❤️
Perfect for readers who love:
✨ Shifter/werewolf romance
🔥 Broody Alpha heroes
❤️ Slow-burn romance
🌙 Hidden identities & dangerous secrets
🐺 Pack dynamics & loyalty
⚔️ War, legends & supernatural politics
💔 Grieving heroines
😏 Protective Alpha energy
🔥 “There’s something different about her” mysteries
Thank you to Izzy Barry and RR Book Tours for the opportunity to read this ARC. 💕📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Not counting Twilight, this is my first adult wolf shifter romance, and it is outstanding! This is the sloooooowest of burns, like, there is some intimacy in this first installment but not everything. And the tension is so fierce you can feel it aching in your own body. 🥵 The story is devastating, like I’m not sure how she had the strength the make some of the decisions she did but it was the right choice in the end.
Aloka had only her wolf shifter brother, until he was ripped away from her by human gunfire, and he left her in the care of the most powerful Alpha in all 4 clans. Being human herself, her life is in near constant danger from the wolves she has been sent to live with, except Stark. As things begin to escalate at the boundary between human and wolf territory, Aloka does everything she can to protect the pack she has come to see as family, at the potential cost of revealing her deadly secrets.
This story will suck you in and make you regret having to do anything responsible in your life. I read the last half in one sitting within a few hours. So good. Can’t wait to see what more we get in Aloka and Stark’s story!! Thank you so much to Izzy Barry and Books & Bloom PR for the advance copy! Looking forward to my special edition shelf trophy!!
Aloka had only her wolf shifter brother, until he was ripped away from her by human gunfire, and he left her in the care of the most powerful Alpha in all 4 clans. Being human herself, her life is in near constant danger from the wolves she has been sent to live with, except Stark. As things begin to escalate at the boundary between human and wolf territory, Aloka does everything she can to protect the pack she has come to see as family, at the potential cost of revealing her deadly secrets.
This story will suck you in and make you regret having to do anything responsible in your life. I read the last half in one sitting within a few hours. So good. Can’t wait to see what more we get in Aloka and Stark’s story!! Thank you so much to Izzy Barry and Books & Bloom PR for the advance copy! Looking forward to my special edition shelf trophy!!
September 5, 2026
Thank you to IRIS Influencer Society and Izzy Barry for this eARC!
I'm a sucker for a shifter/werewolf romance, so I knew I'd fly through this book. I especially loved the lore and mythology woven throughout the story. It felt unique and helped the book stand out from others in the genre.
One trope that tends to frustrate me is miscommunication and excessive secrecy between the main characters. I understand it's often used to build tension and keep readers invested until the big reveal, but it can feel overdone at times. That said, given the nature of the FMC and her circumstances, I could understand why certain things were revealed gradually.
I also wish the book had been longer. At times, the pacing felt rushed, and some aspects of the story could have been explored in greater depth. I would have loved more background on the characters and their relationships, as it would have helped me feel more connected to them and more invested in their journey overall.
While I would have loved a little more development, this was still a great read, and I'm excited to continue the series. I'll definitely be picking up Book 2!
I'm a sucker for a shifter/werewolf romance, so I knew I'd fly through this book. I especially loved the lore and mythology woven throughout the story. It felt unique and helped the book stand out from others in the genre.
One trope that tends to frustrate me is miscommunication and excessive secrecy between the main characters. I understand it's often used to build tension and keep readers invested until the big reveal, but it can feel overdone at times. That said, given the nature of the FMC and her circumstances, I could understand why certain things were revealed gradually.
I also wish the book had been longer. At times, the pacing felt rushed, and some aspects of the story could have been explored in greater depth. I would have loved more background on the characters and their relationships, as it would have helped me feel more connected to them and more invested in their journey overall.
While I would have loved a little more development, this was still a great read, and I'm excited to continue the series. I'll definitely be picking up Book 2!
August 27, 2026
Stayed up until 4AM to read this book because it’s THAT good and this also got me out of my reading slump!!!
From the very first chapter, this book got me hooked and did not let me go. The premise is already so good. We have a very sheltered heroine forced to move to the Alpha’s house because her brother died and now she has to deal with a pack that pretty much hates her. It definitely sets it up for a lot of good drama.
I think what I love the most is how miscommunication is used here for really REALLY hilarious comedic beats. I mean, you have a very naïve heroine who doesn’t really know how pack life works. Now she’s forced to navigate pack with no one to help her.
But she’s also really feisty without being dumb. She’s sarcastic but not a bitch.
I really love her, and I also really love the alpha, Stark, because even though he is really possessive and protective right from the start, he is also such a quiet and steady presence, which I think Aloka really needed during such an unstable time for her.
He knew that he’s grieving and he gave her space to do so. Plus, he has a huge book collection that he shares with her!!!
Give me a hottie who loves to read anytime!!!
Seriously, they are idiots to lovers and I love that trope so much 😆
I laughed and giggled and grieved and cheered and ugh this book is AMAZING!
I can’t wait for book 2!!
_______
ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴀʀᴄ, ᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛꜱ ᴀʀᴇ ᴍʏ ᴏᴡɴ
From the very first chapter, this book got me hooked and did not let me go. The premise is already so good. We have a very sheltered heroine forced to move to the Alpha’s house because her brother died and now she has to deal with a pack that pretty much hates her. It definitely sets it up for a lot of good drama.
I think what I love the most is how miscommunication is used here for really REALLY hilarious comedic beats. I mean, you have a very naïve heroine who doesn’t really know how pack life works. Now she’s forced to navigate pack with no one to help her.
But she’s also really feisty without being dumb. She’s sarcastic but not a bitch.
I really love her, and I also really love the alpha, Stark, because even though he is really possessive and protective right from the start, he is also such a quiet and steady presence, which I think Aloka really needed during such an unstable time for her.
He knew that he’s grieving and he gave her space to do so. Plus, he has a huge book collection that he shares with her!!!
Give me a hottie who loves to read anytime!!!
Seriously, they are idiots to lovers and I love that trope so much 😆
I laughed and giggled and grieved and cheered and ugh this book is AMAZING!
I can’t wait for book 2!!
_______
ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴀʀᴄ, ᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛꜱ ᴀʀᴇ ᴍʏ ᴏᴡɴ
September 3, 2026
𝘏𝘶𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘐𝘻𝘻𝘺 𝘉𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
WOW. It’s not often that a dedication alone has me immediately locked in, but this one hit me like a ton of bricks. And somehow what followed was even better. This was easily one of the most unique werewolf stories I’ve read, and I absolutely DEVOURED it in less than 24 hours.
The characters were incredible. I absolutely adored Aloka and Stark even when they were at odds. Aloka was such a badass and I was flipping the pages needing to know more about her secrets. Stark being so mysterious and broody was perfection because we love a protective and grumpy man. I loved their dynamic and the little bits of tension between them, and I am VERY interested to see where all of that goes.
Jocko, however, was an absolute treasure and I need approximately 700% more of him immediately. And somehow, much like Alo, I miss Pratt desperately despite never actually meeting the man on page. The way his presence was felt throughout the story genuinely got me. BRB going to hug my brother.
I would LOVE more romance between Alo and Stark but I’m a patient girl and will be sitting waiting for the next book like a wolf waiting for the full moon. I also can’t wait to see more about what Aloka can do.
Basically, I flew through this, loved these characters, and now I need book two immediately.
WOW. It’s not often that a dedication alone has me immediately locked in, but this one hit me like a ton of bricks. And somehow what followed was even better. This was easily one of the most unique werewolf stories I’ve read, and I absolutely DEVOURED it in less than 24 hours.
The characters were incredible. I absolutely adored Aloka and Stark even when they were at odds. Aloka was such a badass and I was flipping the pages needing to know more about her secrets. Stark being so mysterious and broody was perfection because we love a protective and grumpy man. I loved their dynamic and the little bits of tension between them, and I am VERY interested to see where all of that goes.
Jocko, however, was an absolute treasure and I need approximately 700% more of him immediately. And somehow, much like Alo, I miss Pratt desperately despite never actually meeting the man on page. The way his presence was felt throughout the story genuinely got me. BRB going to hug my brother.
I would LOVE more romance between Alo and Stark but I’m a patient girl and will be sitting waiting for the next book like a wolf waiting for the full moon. I also can’t wait to see more about what Aloka can do.
Basically, I flew through this, loved these characters, and now I need book two immediately.
September 21, 2026
Unfortunately, Red didn’t work for me. The premise had potential, but I found the execution frustrating and difficult to connect with.
The lack of communication between the characters became exhausting, and the unreliable narration at the start made it even harder to understand what was actually happening. There were also far too many characters introduced, which made the story feel crowded without giving me enough time to care about any of them. Even the main characters felt quite dull to me.
Overall, the story felt choppy and disconnected. I often struggled to follow what was happening or understand how certain scenes connected to one another. There were some interesting ideas here, but unfortunately I never felt invested enough for them to land. The pace of the story was all over the place. All the FMC did was talk about her dead brother, going home and hiding all her secrets even from us. The characters just didnt communicate and it ruined the story. I found the writing was just inconsistent also.
The main points for this was the duet narration.
The lack of communication between the characters became exhausting, and the unreliable narration at the start made it even harder to understand what was actually happening. There were also far too many characters introduced, which made the story feel crowded without giving me enough time to care about any of them. Even the main characters felt quite dull to me.
Overall, the story felt choppy and disconnected. I often struggled to follow what was happening or understand how certain scenes connected to one another. There were some interesting ideas here, but unfortunately I never felt invested enough for them to land. The pace of the story was all over the place. All the FMC did was talk about her dead brother, going home and hiding all her secrets even from us. The characters just didnt communicate and it ruined the story. I found the writing was just inconsistent also.
The main points for this was the duet narration.
August 13, 2026
"Get In the truck..."
Red is the Werewolf Romance you didn't know you needed. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down!
After her brother passes away Aloka is forced to reside in Stark's home alongside him. Aloka is thought to be a human while Stark is one of the strongest Alphas around. This story goes over why Aloka burns so hot and why she will stop at nothing to keep her secret.
There are times in this story I just want to smack both of these two and just kept wondering when they would learn to communicate. You can tell from the outside (just like good old Jocko could) that these two are meant for each other but we have to go THROUGH it to get there. We do have some spice here but it is a sloooooowwwwww burn. There is lots of tension and unexpected excitement, but I don't want to give out too many spoilers.
Overall this is one you won't want to miss!
🐺Werewolf shifters
🖤Hidden identity
🐺Forced proximity
🖤Found family
🐺Slow burn
🖤Touch-and-d!e energy (both ways)
🐺Pack politics
This was an ARC read.
Red is the Werewolf Romance you didn't know you needed. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down!
After her brother passes away Aloka is forced to reside in Stark's home alongside him. Aloka is thought to be a human while Stark is one of the strongest Alphas around. This story goes over why Aloka burns so hot and why she will stop at nothing to keep her secret.
There are times in this story I just want to smack both of these two and just kept wondering when they would learn to communicate. You can tell from the outside (just like good old Jocko could) that these two are meant for each other but we have to go THROUGH it to get there. We do have some spice here but it is a sloooooowwwwww burn. There is lots of tension and unexpected excitement, but I don't want to give out too many spoilers.
Overall this is one you won't want to miss!
🐺Werewolf shifters
🖤Hidden identity
🐺Forced proximity
🖤Found family
🐺Slow burn
🖤Touch-and-d!e energy (both ways)
🐺Pack politics
This was an ARC read.
September 17, 2026
The plot was interesting. However- this book really, really needed some copyediting and a lot more proofreading. Missing punctuation, sentences that don’t make sense, run on sentences, etc. Trying to decipher through the nonsensical sentences to try and figure out what was happening was a CHORE at times. In some areas I thought maybe I had missed a scene when reading only to realize, no I didn’t, it’s a plot hole. On one page a character orders a “rye and coke” and then three sentences later he’s taking a sip of his beer. I could go on. If this had a little more polish it would be 4+ star read.
April 5, 2026
This book pop up on my algorithm on TikTok and just knew I had to read it .
Once I picked it up I didn’t want put it down.
forced proximity , hiding a secret , and Werewolf shifters had me hooked .
Aloka is FMC and she is determined , Brave ,fearless, Stubborn,a Mystery that need be solved
Her Brother died and wrote a letter for her to stay with young Pack Alpha Stark. - they all think she just another human.
🔥 She runs hot
🐺Werewolf shifters
🔥Slow burn
🧑🧑🧒🧒Found family
🔪Touch and die (both)
I Loved the ending , can’t for next book 📕
Once I picked it up I didn’t want put it down.
forced proximity , hiding a secret , and Werewolf shifters had me hooked .
Aloka is FMC and she is determined , Brave ,fearless, Stubborn,a Mystery that need be solved
Her Brother died and wrote a letter for her to stay with young Pack Alpha Stark. - they all think she just another human.
🔥 She runs hot
🐺Werewolf shifters
🔥Slow burn
🧑🧑🧒🧒Found family
🔪Touch and die (both)
I Loved the ending , can’t for next book 📕
Read
April 2, 2026Aloka is a fierce heroine. She is forced to stay with Stark. They have great chemistry together but you have Nikki who wants to be Stark’s mate.
This book had all the elements to draw the reader into this world. The reader will love how the author was able to combine it all. There is action, romance, mystery and angst. The reader will experience so many emotions as they follow Aloka on her journey.
This book had all the elements to draw the reader into this world. The reader will love how the author was able to combine it all. There is action, romance, mystery and angst. The reader will experience so many emotions as they follow Aloka on her journey.
April 3, 2026
I really loved Red by Izzy Barry. From the start, I found myself completely drawn to the characters—you can’t help but fall in love with them. Stark’s overprotective nature made me like him even more, and Aloka is so lovable and relatable that it was easy to connect with her.
Werewolf stories can be hard to get right, but this one felt fresh and enjoyable. For a first-time indie author, this is such a strong and heartfelt debut. I’m really excited to see what Izzy Barry writes next.
Werewolf stories can be hard to get right, but this one felt fresh and enjoyable. For a first-time indie author, this is such a strong and heartfelt debut. I’m really excited to see what Izzy Barry writes next.
April 9, 2026
Oh my word this book!!!! I could not put it down. I was up till 2 in the morning not being able to put it down because I had to know what going to happen next. I was laughing,crying in places, white knuckling my kindle to wanting to throw it across the room.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced Reader Copy and can honestly say I am not disappointed at all. Top tier read for me. I’m here for the vibes.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced Reader Copy and can honestly say I am not disappointed at all. Top tier read for me. I’m here for the vibes.
August 25, 2026
I love everything about this book. The characters are done really well and it is not some black and white world but the characters also come in shades of grey. I love the fact that there are „bad guys“ among the „good“ and „bad“ people in the story.
I can‘t stop swooning over Stark. He is the definition of broody and protective. I love that so much. He would burn the world down for Aloka and it shows. I really love him.
Aloka is an amazing person. She is caring and wants to help everybody no matter the price. She has been through so much heartbreak but still lets people in. Her chemistry with Stark is sizzling and the slow burn is real!
I also love Jocko! He deserves the world and especially his own book 😉
I can‘t stop swooning over Stark. He is the definition of broody and protective. I love that so much. He would burn the world down for Aloka and it shows. I really love him.
Aloka is an amazing person. She is caring and wants to help everybody no matter the price. She has been through so much heartbreak but still lets people in. Her chemistry with Stark is sizzling and the slow burn is real!
I also love Jocko! He deserves the world and especially his own book 😉
August 27, 2026
I don’t know where to start with this one!
I really enjoyed it, the pace was perfect the descriptions and world building were well written.
I absolutely adored Aloka and the chemistry between her and Stark was on fire!
I loved the forced proximity and there was a heavy dose of touch him/her and die too.
i am praying for a second book because I want to see where this goes!
I really enjoyed it, the pace was perfect the descriptions and world building were well written.
I absolutely adored Aloka and the chemistry between her and Stark was on fire!
I loved the forced proximity and there was a heavy dose of touch him/her and die too.
i am praying for a second book because I want to see where this goes!
April 28, 2026
ARC Review
Full review to follow - I finished this book in one day. I love the characters Aloka and Stark, and Jocko is someone I’d love to spend time with.
“My Mate, My House, My Rules”
Full review to follow - I finished this book in one day. I love the characters Aloka and Stark, and Jocko is someone I’d love to spend time with.
“My Mate, My House, My Rules”
June 8, 2026
Omggggg I loved this so much! I loved the beginning how chapter one was immediately beginning the story with a big amount of drama. It pulled me in right from the start and I already need book 2. The slow burn was sooooo hot 🥵 and I liked the push and pull dynamic between the main characters. Stark is my new book boyfriend.
August 20, 2026
Advanced review copy
4.5⭐️
I love a good shifter book more than anything and I really love one that can keep my attention the whole time. This one delivers!
A girl who has last her last family member with secrets she has been told her whole life are unsafe to
share is forced to live with under the same roof of her alpha. An over protective, touch her and ☠️, and also falls hard!
I couldn’t help be fall deep into the chemistry these to were developing. The back and forth banter and who fight for dominance was just part of fun.
The story grows with this one and the ending leaves you wanting more. This is an author you will want to reading!
4.5⭐️
I love a good shifter book more than anything and I really love one that can keep my attention the whole time. This one delivers!
A girl who has last her last family member with secrets she has been told her whole life are unsafe to
share is forced to live with under the same roof of her alpha. An over protective, touch her and ☠️, and also falls hard!
I couldn’t help be fall deep into the chemistry these to were developing. The back and forth banter and who fight for dominance was just part of fun.
The story grows with this one and the ending leaves you wanting more. This is an author you will want to reading!
Read
May 5, 2026I went into Red thinking I’d get a classic werewolf story… and it turned into so much more. The story follows Aloka, who’s forced into an Alpha’s territory after losing her brother, and from the start you can feel how out of place she is — surrounded by a pack that doesn’t trust her, and stuck with a protector who clearly doesn’t want her there 🐺
What really hooked me was the dynamic between Aloka and Stark. It has that perfect forced proximity + enemies-to-lovers + slow burn tension where everything feels restrained but intense at the same time. The way their relationship builds — through small moments, lingering touches, and all that unspoken tension — was so good 🖤
I also loved the underlying mystery around Aloka. You know from the beginning that she’s hiding something, and it adds this constant pressure to the story, especially with the threat of war getting closer. It’s very much “hidden identity” + “she’s more powerful than they think”, and I was completely invested in when everything would finally come to light.
By the end, I was hooked on both the emotional side and the bigger stakes. It’s intense, a little angsty, and exactly the kind of slow-burn paranormal romance I love 🔥
What really hooked me was the dynamic between Aloka and Stark. It has that perfect forced proximity + enemies-to-lovers + slow burn tension where everything feels restrained but intense at the same time. The way their relationship builds — through small moments, lingering touches, and all that unspoken tension — was so good 🖤
I also loved the underlying mystery around Aloka. You know from the beginning that she’s hiding something, and it adds this constant pressure to the story, especially with the threat of war getting closer. It’s very much “hidden identity” + “she’s more powerful than they think”, and I was completely invested in when everything would finally come to light.
By the end, I was hooked on both the emotional side and the bigger stakes. It’s intense, a little angsty, and exactly the kind of slow-burn paranormal romance I love 🔥
Review of advance copy
An absolutely incredible debut novel! Thank you Izzy for being Aloka and Starks story to life.
Aloka has a secret. She’s special and unique, not just in her personality. She leads everyone to believe she is a weak human because she is smaller than the average shifter. She so brave. She puts her own life on the line to infiltrate the humans just to ensure the safety of a pack who reluctantly took her in and race that have essentially shunned her. Thats ballsy.
Stark is bold, arrogant, stubborn, ruthless, fair, as he any good Alpha should be. He puts the needs of his pack in high regard and will do whatever he deems necessary to keep them all safe.
Their dynamic is fantastic. They are both so obviously into each other but too stubborn to admit it. I loved how Stark just kept putting himself in her way. Alo wanted to run, her went with her, she wanted to read and research he got her books and rare texts
This is the perfect pack for her, Pratt was right to ask Stark to look after her. So many incredible characters, Jocko, Kiya, Mitus, Hudry are all wonderful in their own way. Nikki, I wanted to like her, but I just couldn’t. She was so mean and spiteful to Aloka and tried to force a relationship with Stark that just wasn’t there.
I do wish that she felt more confident that she could share her secret sooner. This would be the group that would have her back and supported her.
Aloka has a secret. She’s special and unique, not just in her personality. She leads everyone to believe she is a weak human because she is smaller than the average shifter. She so brave. She puts her own life on the line to infiltrate the humans just to ensure the safety of a pack who reluctantly took her in and race that have essentially shunned her. Thats ballsy.
Stark is bold, arrogant, stubborn, ruthless, fair, as he any good Alpha should be. He puts the needs of his pack in high regard and will do whatever he deems necessary to keep them all safe.
Their dynamic is fantastic. They are both so obviously into each other but too stubborn to admit it. I loved how Stark just kept putting himself in her way. Alo wanted to run, her went with her, she wanted to read and research he got her books and rare texts
This is the perfect pack for her, Pratt was right to ask Stark to look after her. So many incredible characters, Jocko, Kiya, Mitus, Hudry are all wonderful in their own way. Nikki, I wanted to like her, but I just couldn’t. She was so mean and spiteful to Aloka and tried to force a relationship with Stark that just wasn’t there.
I do wish that she felt more confident that she could share her secret sooner. This would be the group that would have her back and supported her.
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