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Werewolves of Windermere #1
The Mating Habits of Werewolves
Devlin is an Omega, a male werewolf that can carry as well as father children. But that is not all Devlin is, and for the last six years he has actually had the freedom to become the scientist he always longed to be. Away from his pack and any other Alpha, Devlin has grown hopeful, but now his luck has run out; his Alpha is calling and he must return home to fulfil his destiny.
When he gets back to England, the news are even worse than he expected: the pack is expanding over further territory and with bigger land, the pack itself must grow. Every Omega in the pack must be bred to ensure the next generation is large enough. Including Devlin. He is given one choice that is not choice at all: between two young Alphas who have come to the pack for the promise of an Omega to mate.
Devlin is lost: He can't leave unless he makes a choice and he can't make a choice between two men he's just met that will determine the rest of his life. But if he doesn't make it soon he will lose the last thing he has left from his old life: his dream of a career as a research biologist.
In a desperate bid for freedom inside the cage the pack has made for him, Devlin makes the most daring offer of all: he will mate with both Alphas. After all, you can't belong to two people, he figures, and if he doesn't belong to them, maybe he can get to keep himself.
When he gets back to England, the news are even worse than he expected: the pack is expanding over further territory and with bigger land, the pack itself must grow. Every Omega in the pack must be bred to ensure the next generation is large enough. Including Devlin. He is given one choice that is not choice at all: between two young Alphas who have come to the pack for the promise of an Omega to mate.
Devlin is lost: He can't leave unless he makes a choice and he can't make a choice between two men he's just met that will determine the rest of his life. But if he doesn't make it soon he will lose the last thing he has left from his old life: his dream of a career as a research biologist.
In a desperate bid for freedom inside the cage the pack has made for him, Devlin makes the most daring offer of all: he will mate with both Alphas. After all, you can't belong to two people, he figures, and if he doesn't belong to them, maybe he can get to keep himself.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2015
92 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
N.J. Lysk
95 books274 followersN.J. Lysk (pronouns: whatever) is a queer one—in almost every sense of the word—for whom stories have always been their one true home. She studied linguistics and literature (which is to say, someone offered him a genuine excuse to read professionally) and ended up teaching, but writing is their one true love.
Addicted to angst, enamoured of mpreg and always ready to try a new kink (in a book, that’s it!) she became hooked into the Omegaverse through fanfic (but he doesn't have the patience to write other people's characters) and has recently expanded from werewolves to hockey players.
Check out my shelves if you want some recommendations, including books that inspired me ;)
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Addicted to angst, enamoured of mpreg and always ready to try a new kink (in a book, that’s it!) she became hooked into the Omegaverse through fanfic (but he doesn't have the patience to write other people's characters) and has recently expanded from werewolves to hockey players.
Check out my shelves if you want some recommendations, including books that inspired me ;)
Books can be acquired directly from the website at a reduced rate—new releases also become available there earlier.
Get episode 1 of "Cracking Ice" for free here: https://smarturl.it/FreeCrackingIce
At https://www.njlysk.com you can find exclusive stories for less than a $1 and other discounts as well.
Join my newsletter to get news about releases & sales!
English: https://sendfox.com/lp/1gpxj1
Beta readers' list: https://sendfox.com/lp/1x56kp
ARC readers list: https://sendfox.com/lp/3e6x6z
Deutsche Mailingliste: https://sendfox.com/lp/3eg001
Italiano: https://sendfox.com/NJLYSK
Français : https://sendfox.com/lp/m7k2d1
Portugues: https://sendfox.com/lp/mnl0ll
Castellano: https://sendfox.com/lp/3ez0nk
Dutch: https://sendfox.com/lp/3qqrzv
Check out the pretty people and covers: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/njlysk/
And come play on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/23457...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 7, 2021
Dark tale of forced mating and breeding - too dark & negative for me to enjoy
If I hated reading a book, but it has enough positive reviews for those who appreciate the author's insights, I don't mind giving it an honest ("I hated it") one star even if the writing was not a train wreck. When I find a book that has a subject that really intrigues me, I will often peruse the negative reviews to see if something jumps out that indicates I might have a similar reaction (e.g a trigger or just a theme that isn't for me). Hence the purpose of this review is not to trash the author, but to honestly say why it's really not for me (and possibly others with similar tastes).
On the positive side, the author explores the potential for oppression in a shifter Omegaverse where the male omega is very unwilling, and this is a logical outcome of some interpretations of the male omega breeder dynamic. Part of me wants to commend the author for looking at the dark, forced side of omega breeding, and mpreg fans who enjoy continuous angst and loads of self-pity/depression at being oppressed may find this dark side of shifter omega breeding to be novel and insightful.
On the negative side, the protagonist clearly had his life ripped apart from him, was bred and mated off against his will, and he never got over it. Other reviewers bemoaned how unlikable Devlin was, and how much his continued bitterness and unhappiness dragged down the story. I have the exact opposite reaction, feeling I read a story where the protagonist was basically enslaved and raped, his family indicating that he should simply buck up and make the best of it, and, worst of all, the Alphas who bred him who were trying to be sympathetic were clueless and, in the end, came off worse to me than the unsupportive family and society around him.
Basically, this is a trip through the unhappiness of someone forced into mating and breeding, and who never really gets over the feeling of being enslaved and raped. Whichever side one falls one (Devlin is too unsympathetic or Devlin is a victim who should never give in to the oppression around him), to me it's just a dark tale of omega mpreg (and does not fit in the "recommended in shifter romance" lists generated for me).
If I hated reading a book, but it has enough positive reviews for those who appreciate the author's insights, I don't mind giving it an honest ("I hated it") one star even if the writing was not a train wreck. When I find a book that has a subject that really intrigues me, I will often peruse the negative reviews to see if something jumps out that indicates I might have a similar reaction (e.g a trigger or just a theme that isn't for me). Hence the purpose of this review is not to trash the author, but to honestly say why it's really not for me (and possibly others with similar tastes).
On the positive side, the author explores the potential for oppression in a shifter Omegaverse where the male omega is very unwilling, and this is a logical outcome of some interpretations of the male omega breeder dynamic. Part of me wants to commend the author for looking at the dark, forced side of omega breeding, and mpreg fans who enjoy continuous angst and loads of self-pity/depression at being oppressed may find this dark side of shifter omega breeding to be novel and insightful.
On the negative side, the protagonist clearly had his life ripped apart from him, was bred and mated off against his will, and he never got over it. Other reviewers bemoaned how unlikable Devlin was, and how much his continued bitterness and unhappiness dragged down the story. I have the exact opposite reaction, feeling I read a story where the protagonist was basically enslaved and raped, his family indicating that he should simply buck up and make the best of it, and, worst of all, the Alphas who bred him who were trying to be sympathetic were clueless and, in the end, came off worse to me than the unsupportive family and society around him.
Basically, this is a trip through the unhappiness of someone forced into mating and breeding, and who never really gets over the feeling of being enslaved and raped. Whichever side one falls one (Devlin is too unsympathetic or Devlin is a victim who should never give in to the oppression around him), to me it's just a dark tale of omega mpreg (and does not fit in the "recommended in shifter romance" lists generated for me).
April 20, 2019
I struggled with this one in a major way. It felt like it was really two stories tied together only with a dictate by an alpha. The omega here actually has been out in the "real world" and has a life - which he'd like to get back too. However, he comes back home after his dad dies to find himself subject to a new rule by his alpha brother about being forced to have a child in the next year - hence he needs to mate. So far yeah -- it's going in the dubcon/noncon way but then he decides on the mates and he never enjoys them. I think they enjoy him - but mostly due to biology. I didn't fall in love with any of the characters - and the secondary one's didn't help either. This is very like the authors other books with an omega who spends a ton of time not liking pretty much anything and being forced. Usually that works for me but not here.
The sex wasn't hot - it was sort of clinical as it was ruled over by biology. I was hoping that might be its superpower but alas not so much. There is a deep seated hatred of omega's in this book - so much I started looking at this as a SJW/Political story about women in today's society. I wasn't clear overall about omega's and male omega's in this story - there was still world building lacking here. The consent/non-consent was conflicted. It really turned me off the way they all acted - Devlin with PTSD and two alpha's confused. And I didn't like the relationship between the two alpha's which was also screwed up royally - all sorts of issues. The whole reason for why to force this was strange - and Devlin's Mom's reasoning? What?
Devlin needs therapy for sure - and the two alpha's need to come to grips with the fact they like each other more than they like him. And then the guy from Devlin's past - what's that about?
It should all have worked for me - really -- because I have liked some of others from this author but this one just left me cold completely.
For sure no romance here at all. The feminization is barely glanced over (and this author can write some smokin' feminization tales so that's not it). Sex was forgettable. I mean I sort of want to read the next one just to see because I was like WTH for most of the book. But this is just far too long of a book to spend in any characters head that is hating life 100% all the time -- if I want that I can read plenty of regular fiction with its constant depressing content.
The sex wasn't hot - it was sort of clinical as it was ruled over by biology. I was hoping that might be its superpower but alas not so much. There is a deep seated hatred of omega's in this book - so much I started looking at this as a SJW/Political story about women in today's society. I wasn't clear overall about omega's and male omega's in this story - there was still world building lacking here. The consent/non-consent was conflicted. It really turned me off the way they all acted - Devlin with PTSD and two alpha's confused. And I didn't like the relationship between the two alpha's which was also screwed up royally - all sorts of issues. The whole reason for why to force this was strange - and Devlin's Mom's reasoning? What?
Devlin needs therapy for sure - and the two alpha's need to come to grips with the fact they like each other more than they like him. And then the guy from Devlin's past - what's that about?
It should all have worked for me - really -- because I have liked some of others from this author but this one just left me cold completely.
For sure no romance here at all. The feminization is barely glanced over (and this author can write some smokin' feminization tales so that's not it). Sex was forgettable. I mean I sort of want to read the next one just to see because I was like WTH for most of the book. But this is just far too long of a book to spend in any characters head that is hating life 100% all the time -- if I want that I can read plenty of regular fiction with its constant depressing content.
September 22, 2015
Not Bad!
Mpreg stories are not for everyone. Unfortunately, many authors of this genre tend to feminine the main character (aka Chicks with D****). Kudos to NJ Lysk for writing something that isn't cute but angsty and touch on the cold reality of a male losing his dreams and friends because of a whim of his brother/alpha for all omega's to procreate. So much so that his brother dictates who will mate with who with little regard or choice of the omega. Devin is the sole omega male of the pack and just weeks away from completing his doctorate. He has always rejected his role as an omega so bearing children goes against everything he believes in.
The unusual twist is the two alphas that are his only choices (he picks both) are so likable. While the deed is done (at the reluctant request of Devin), he spends the rest of the book making them feel like crap making them feel like they hurt him or less than consensual. For me, it was the relationship between Naveen and Rami (the two alphas) that carried the last half of the story. Devin sends too many mixed signals and plays the victim far too often to be likable.
If you like angsty mpreg stories, this one is worth checking out.
Mpreg stories are not for everyone. Unfortunately, many authors of this genre tend to feminine the main character (aka Chicks with D****). Kudos to NJ Lysk for writing something that isn't cute but angsty and touch on the cold reality of a male losing his dreams and friends because of a whim of his brother/alpha for all omega's to procreate. So much so that his brother dictates who will mate with who with little regard or choice of the omega. Devin is the sole omega male of the pack and just weeks away from completing his doctorate. He has always rejected his role as an omega so bearing children goes against everything he believes in.
The unusual twist is the two alphas that are his only choices (he picks both) are so likable. While the deed is done (at the reluctant request of Devin), he spends the rest of the book making them feel like crap making them feel like they hurt him or less than consensual. For me, it was the relationship between Naveen and Rami (the two alphas) that carried the last half of the story. Devin sends too many mixed signals and plays the victim far too often to be likable.
If you like angsty mpreg stories, this one is worth checking out.
February 4, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
I struggled with The Mating Habits of Werewolves from the start for lots of reasons, but primarily because Devlin reads like a tortured soul. I’m usually fine with dubious consent, but something about Devlin’s situation unsettled me. When his brother decides all the pack omegas will have children, Devlin has no choice but to submit due to his status. This is problem number one for me, because there is no way to get past the fact that Devlin is essentially raped. He can’t say no. He can’t tell Rami and Naveen to stop and his biology forces him to submit. That isn’t dub con in my opinion, it’s just rape. And there’s nothing you can do to redeem a situation like that once it on the page, at least in terms of trying to pull something romantic from the relationship.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
I struggled with The Mating Habits of Werewolves from the start for lots of reasons, but primarily because Devlin reads like a tortured soul. I’m usually fine with dubious consent, but something about Devlin’s situation unsettled me. When his brother decides all the pack omegas will have children, Devlin has no choice but to submit due to his status. This is problem number one for me, because there is no way to get past the fact that Devlin is essentially raped. He can’t say no. He can’t tell Rami and Naveen to stop and his biology forces him to submit. That isn’t dub con in my opinion, it’s just rape. And there’s nothing you can do to redeem a situation like that once it on the page, at least in terms of trying to pull something romantic from the relationship.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
February 12, 2016
The story could have been so much more enjoyable if only Devin had been likeable. But he wasn't. You know there is a problem when 80% into the book the MC keeps thinking his relationship with the 2 alphas he chose is non-consensual. There was not a single moment in the entire book when I felt any sort of chemistry between him and the other 2, let alone any love. He treated them as garbage, I just couldn’t justify his actions. He was being ordered to do something he didn’t want, that was shitty, but he could have handled the matter better, especially when the 2 alphas were so caring and supportive of him.
So while I think the book was well written I have to be honest and say I didn't like it much.
So while I think the book was well written I have to be honest and say I didn't like it much.
January 10, 2021
soo... i freakin loved this.. yes it is dark and horrifying.. in so many spots i wanted to smack many characters.. but it was wonderful.. and sexy.. and amazing.. and the writing was superb and made me happy to read. this has a lot of trigger type of things... which i really enjoy so i cant help for those who arent. it was amazingly written.. i loved it and cant wait for the next book!
September 9, 2017
I enjoyed reading this book. The relationship between the three characters is fascinating and I liked all of them. However...
I've read, let me think, four of the author's books now - the "Stars of the Pack" series plus this one. One theme that runs through all of them is the omegas' hatred for what they are, for the ways their status limits them, and their lack of control over their lives as a consequence of their biology.
In this book the omega feels so revolted at being pregnant that he desperately tries to dissociate himself and becomes overwrought if his alphas look at his belly, try to listen to the babies, or anything similar. He's working on his feelings throughout the book, but from where I sit, he NEEDS THERAPY, because the kind of self-revulsion he has can lead to self-harm of many kinds. Dude should talk to somebody. Of course, there probably aren't a lot of shifter counselors...
I would really like to see poor Devlin reach some kind of emotional equilibrium and acceptance of his own body. Future book maybe? (I know there's a book about Naveen and Rami, which I haven't read yet, but it looks to me like it doesn't reach much past the timeline of "The Mating Habits..."
I've read, let me think, four of the author's books now - the "Stars of the Pack" series plus this one. One theme that runs through all of them is the omegas' hatred for what they are, for the ways their status limits them, and their lack of control over their lives as a consequence of their biology.
In this book the omega feels so revolted at being pregnant that he desperately tries to dissociate himself and becomes overwrought if his alphas look at his belly, try to listen to the babies, or anything similar. He's working on his feelings throughout the book, but from where I sit, he NEEDS THERAPY, because the kind of self-revulsion he has can lead to self-harm of many kinds. Dude should talk to somebody. Of course, there probably aren't a lot of shifter counselors...
I would really like to see poor Devlin reach some kind of emotional equilibrium and acceptance of his own body. Future book maybe? (I know there's a book about Naveen and Rami, which I haven't read yet, but it looks to me like it doesn't reach much past the timeline of "The Mating Habits..."
March 3, 2019
I really wanted to love this book
The writing and the story line and the characters (for the most part) were solid and that is what kept me going right to the end
I guess where the problem was for me is the reality of Devlin's situation - It was made quite glaringly clear throughout every page of this book that Devlin (in his own mind and this is kind of important) was nothing more than an incubator that no one saw as an equal or truly loved
I enjoy the world of omegaverse - I get that the omega's many times are not happy with the way biology does not work in their favor - that they are seen first as an incubator and second as a person - What has always drawn me in is the omegas realization that they are loved, beyond just being a source to breed, and the slow evolution where they begin accepting and basking in the care and attention shown to them by their Alpha - nature vs nurture in a sort of twisted way I guess
That does not happen here - Devlin makes a conscious choice to never forgive nor accept his situation or what he truly is -
There is no real hea in this first book - will I read the second? Yes probably because it can't end like this - though maybe that is the author's intentions?
The writing and the story line and the characters (for the most part) were solid and that is what kept me going right to the end
I guess where the problem was for me is the reality of Devlin's situation - It was made quite glaringly clear throughout every page of this book that Devlin (in his own mind and this is kind of important) was nothing more than an incubator that no one saw as an equal or truly loved
I enjoy the world of omegaverse - I get that the omega's many times are not happy with the way biology does not work in their favor - that they are seen first as an incubator and second as a person - What has always drawn me in is the omegas realization that they are loved, beyond just being a source to breed, and the slow evolution where they begin accepting and basking in the care and attention shown to them by their Alpha - nature vs nurture in a sort of twisted way I guess
That does not happen here - Devlin makes a conscious choice to never forgive nor accept his situation or what he truly is -
There is no real hea in this first book - will I read the second? Yes probably because it can't end like this - though maybe that is the author's intentions?
January 8, 2021
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Devlin was back home in his pack for the death of the alpha/Dominant for an omage. Never dreaming that he was going be stuck there force to breed by the new leader. Facing off with Brennan only to have two unknowns in his face. What naturally occurredin omegas was lacking in Devlin Submissive wasn't something he was looking forward to. Naveen or Rami..Naveen and Rami but what about Dan the human boyfriend he left behind to return for a funeral? Devlin is about to witness more than he thought possible but exciting all the same. Two alphas willingness to help him as much as was allowed but will more develope..only if one or both could control the urge to over look his willingness. Resenting will only last so long, but will it be to late when Devlin choses for more?Will Brennan find out and what price was about to be paid? Freedom it seems is a fleeting and fickle thing.
September 21, 2018
You need to read this.
I have read the other reviews, and this is not a love story. This is what it says. The Mating habits of werewolves. If you read many werewolf romances you know male omegas can give birth. Alphas are very dominant
This book is about an unwilling omega and two younger alphas, who breed him at his pack dominants insistence. The dominant happens to be the omegas brother. Yes, we hate him. The two alphas turn out to be very caring and different. One says to the other, " tell me what you be said that made him cry, because I will literally slit my wrist if I make him cry." It's so endearing I cried. This is not a love story, yet. We are holding out hope for book two. This is a very good book and the characters rock. You will love it. Suzanne in Texas.
I have read the other reviews, and this is not a love story. This is what it says. The Mating habits of werewolves. If you read many werewolf romances you know male omegas can give birth. Alphas are very dominant
This book is about an unwilling omega and two younger alphas, who breed him at his pack dominants insistence. The dominant happens to be the omegas brother. Yes, we hate him. The two alphas turn out to be very caring and different. One says to the other, " tell me what you be said that made him cry, because I will literally slit my wrist if I make him cry." It's so endearing I cried. This is not a love story, yet. We are holding out hope for book two. This is a very good book and the characters rock. You will love it. Suzanne in Texas.
February 13, 2016
Needs some polishing but it has a unique take and voice. Not the same rehashed...
I would totally freak if my after being commanded to have sex, agreeing to get it over with, and not being able to stop it nor enjoy it. I guess makes more sense than the other stories that gloss over an explanation.
I think it could have been presented somewhat differently. The title is like a thesis or published paper, which fits well with the main character. And at the end it's as though he's written the book as a guide, although more his story/experience (like it should be a companion to a more technical work). I know I'm not being helpful but these are my thoughts.
October 25, 2017
Not worth the time
Disappointed! I did not enjoy this book. It was depressing and never really took a turn for the positive. The main character was in turmoil throughout the entire book without ever really going toward the positive. At some point I I expected less angst. This did not feel like any romance and I was sad to not really see the working through to resolution and happiness. I feel like that another book or two down the line if ever. I read the whole thing even though I was tempted to stop. But this is one of the worst books I have read in a while.
Disappointed! I did not enjoy this book. It was depressing and never really took a turn for the positive. The main character was in turmoil throughout the entire book without ever really going toward the positive. At some point I I expected less angst. This did not feel like any romance and I was sad to not really see the working through to resolution and happiness. I feel like that another book or two down the line if ever. I read the whole thing even though I was tempted to stop. But this is one of the worst books I have read in a while.
October 25, 2015
I liked the book but the main character was just so unhappy all the time! It was a new take on shifter stories. However the other two guys in the relationship found more of a connection than the main character did. This made me sad. I felt that there was more of the story to tell. I hope this author writes more to this story
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February 13, 2021I couldn't finish this book, even though I thought I'd love it. I love power dynamics and I love threesomes. I don't love the omega trope much (the baby-making, must-be submissive gender dynamic ruins the gender freedom that I love in an m/m relationship), but I've read ones that I've generally liked.
This was not one. The reluctant, fighting-against-nature, baby-making omega reminds me too much of the woman in a traditional f/m angst romance. Sure, there's dominant and submissive roles in some m/m books, but I like the submissive role to be one that the person chooses and embraces. Not something that they're born into and get around by having considerate peers. That's the female struggle, and I don't need to read a fantasy book about werewolves to experience it. To be fair, that's my assessment as a female, and I'm sure the assessment changes with male or transgender readers.
I can sometimes get over the gendered nature of omegaverse if the relationship in the book is very sexy, which is what I thought was going to happen here (come on, threesome!). But that chemistry between the characters never materialized.
Maybe some of that was because Delvin came across as naive and whiney. I know he biologically can't defy the alpha (due to the contrived environment of this omegaverse), but one minute he barely remembers it and the next it defines his life. For something this important, I would have expected more consistency, and more of an effort in getting the people around him to understand his concerns. But the book seems to purposefully put these illogical plot devices in to generate a story (his forgetfulness at how he's considered a breeder at home, how he's never shared his unhappiness at this with his family, how he's never tried to find an understanding alpha, how his brother for some reason wants everyone to suddenly get pregnant despite wolves being territorial and needing their own space).
The Rami and Naveen dynamic was actually pretty interesting, so maybe I'd enjoy the second book in this series more. But I'm hitting such a rut with this first book that I don't know if I'll make it.
In the end, I don't think it is fair for me to rate this book, since I'm sure there are people that enjoy the omega dynamics who might like it. Honestly, I think this a well-written piece of work, just not for me. In the meanwhile, I'm going to stick to my A H Lee and Manna Francis when I'm feeling kinky.
This was not one. The reluctant, fighting-against-nature, baby-making omega reminds me too much of the woman in a traditional f/m angst romance. Sure, there's dominant and submissive roles in some m/m books, but I like the submissive role to be one that the person chooses and embraces. Not something that they're born into and get around by having considerate peers. That's the female struggle, and I don't need to read a fantasy book about werewolves to experience it. To be fair, that's my assessment as a female, and I'm sure the assessment changes with male or transgender readers.
I can sometimes get over the gendered nature of omegaverse if the relationship in the book is very sexy, which is what I thought was going to happen here (come on, threesome!). But that chemistry between the characters never materialized.
Maybe some of that was because Delvin came across as naive and whiney. I know he biologically can't defy the alpha (due to the contrived environment of this omegaverse), but one minute he barely remembers it and the next it defines his life. For something this important, I would have expected more consistency, and more of an effort in getting the people around him to understand his concerns. But the book seems to purposefully put these illogical plot devices in to generate a story (his forgetfulness at how he's considered a breeder at home, how he's never shared his unhappiness at this with his family, how he's never tried to find an understanding alpha, how his brother for some reason wants everyone to suddenly get pregnant despite wolves being territorial and needing their own space).
The Rami and Naveen dynamic was actually pretty interesting, so maybe I'd enjoy the second book in this series more. But I'm hitting such a rut with this first book that I don't know if I'll make it.
In the end, I don't think it is fair for me to rate this book, since I'm sure there are people that enjoy the omega dynamics who might like it. Honestly, I think this a well-written piece of work, just not for me. In the meanwhile, I'm going to stick to my A H Lee and Manna Francis when I'm feeling kinky.
July 1, 2023
Very good book
I just finished this book and it was difficult to read but also very very well written. 99% of omegaverse books and really the romance genre write a way for true love to make everything end well. The HEA is required. If it doesn’t have an HEA it’s because it’s violent and dark, full of trigger warnings and we expect bad things.
This book is not like that. In this book the werewolf omega is in his late 20s working on his PHD in England. He has a human boyfriend of three year whom he loves deeply. Friends, a job, and his school. The weekend he turns in his thesis he has to fly home to Scotland because his father has died. His brother takes over the pack and his first decree is that all omegas must get pregnant to expand the pack and hold land. Including his brother. As a dominant wolf an omega cannot disobey. He has two choices, submit or run. And running would be a permanent thing and dangerous. His brother offers him two alphas to choose from and he chooses both of them.
Here is where the book diverges. He loses his human boyfriend and the trauma from that is crushing. The mating is so traumatic that afterwards if he is touched he has panic attacks. Unlike most all omega/alpha books, having a heat and intimacy isn’t a magic wand to replace the fact that he wasn’t given a choice. Almost all omegaverse books are based around the simple fact that heat removes consent. This book challenges that.
The rest of the book is the healing that happens between him and his alphas. But it’s long brutal and difficult healing. He has so much rage to work through. And fear and loss of control.
While reading this book I felt sorrow, rage, sadness, frustration, shock, and in a few very short small places I felt positive emotions. There were a couple of times I was crying so hard I had to put the book down because I could not read the letters. There were a few times I thought I couldn’t finish it.
This is not a lighthearted read. This is not a happily ever after book. Love does not conquer. Relationships are hard and trauma is real with long lasting consequences.
If you want to read a book that’s going to make you feel deeply, I recommend it. Highly. But know going into it that it is not your traditional dark romance. Mind your trigger warnings and know when to put a book down.
I just finished this book and it was difficult to read but also very very well written. 99% of omegaverse books and really the romance genre write a way for true love to make everything end well. The HEA is required. If it doesn’t have an HEA it’s because it’s violent and dark, full of trigger warnings and we expect bad things.
This book is not like that. In this book the werewolf omega is in his late 20s working on his PHD in England. He has a human boyfriend of three year whom he loves deeply. Friends, a job, and his school. The weekend he turns in his thesis he has to fly home to Scotland because his father has died. His brother takes over the pack and his first decree is that all omegas must get pregnant to expand the pack and hold land. Including his brother. As a dominant wolf an omega cannot disobey. He has two choices, submit or run. And running would be a permanent thing and dangerous. His brother offers him two alphas to choose from and he chooses both of them.
Here is where the book diverges. He loses his human boyfriend and the trauma from that is crushing. The mating is so traumatic that afterwards if he is touched he has panic attacks. Unlike most all omega/alpha books, having a heat and intimacy isn’t a magic wand to replace the fact that he wasn’t given a choice. Almost all omegaverse books are based around the simple fact that heat removes consent. This book challenges that.
The rest of the book is the healing that happens between him and his alphas. But it’s long brutal and difficult healing. He has so much rage to work through. And fear and loss of control.
While reading this book I felt sorrow, rage, sadness, frustration, shock, and in a few very short small places I felt positive emotions. There were a couple of times I was crying so hard I had to put the book down because I could not read the letters. There were a few times I thought I couldn’t finish it.
This is not a lighthearted read. This is not a happily ever after book. Love does not conquer. Relationships are hard and trauma is real with long lasting consequences.
If you want to read a book that’s going to make you feel deeply, I recommend it. Highly. But know going into it that it is not your traditional dark romance. Mind your trigger warnings and know when to put a book down.
May 21, 2019
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I went into this and it was dark and bordering on the edge of non-con, but I really enjoyed the book and the writing.
I was moved by how emotionally charged the story was. I felt for Devlin, being an Omega who was forced to be bred when he had his own life. He wanted other things and wanted to be able to be his own person. It wasn't really even about rebellion, but about wanting to live any life as long as he chose what it was.
His two Alpha's were interesting. I really enjoyed how they balanced each other and fought to give Devlin the life he wanted and the life he would have chosen.
I didn't love how mean Devlin seemed to get while processing the trauma he went through. He was hurt, but it hurt to read how much he resented them.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the story and found it extremely entertaining.
I was moved by how emotionally charged the story was. I felt for Devlin, being an Omega who was forced to be bred when he had his own life. He wanted other things and wanted to be able to be his own person. It wasn't really even about rebellion, but about wanting to live any life as long as he chose what it was.
His two Alpha's were interesting. I really enjoyed how they balanced each other and fought to give Devlin the life he wanted and the life he would have chosen.
I didn't love how mean Devlin seemed to get while processing the trauma he went through. He was hurt, but it hurt to read how much he resented them.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the story and found it extremely entertaining.
February 6, 2021
"...you understand that making a mistake is not the same thing as being a bad person, even if it’s a terrible mistake, even if the consequences are disastrous."
Profoundly disturbing commentary on arranged marriages, and the problems that can and do arise in a social structure that obliges or forces one part of the arrangement to surrender all personal individuality unto the other, whether it be the one submitting or the one necessarily taking charge.
The anger, hurt, physical and emotional pain, and the depths of social injustice are masterfully portrayed, creating a very emotional, and in many parts triggering read.
Personally, I was crying bitterly through almost half the book.
Profoundly disturbing commentary on arranged marriages, and the problems that can and do arise in a social structure that obliges or forces one part of the arrangement to surrender all personal individuality unto the other, whether it be the one submitting or the one necessarily taking charge.
The anger, hurt, physical and emotional pain, and the depths of social injustice are masterfully portrayed, creating a very emotional, and in many parts triggering read.
Personally, I was crying bitterly through almost half the book.
November 29, 2025
Devlin is an omega who's living a wonderful life at university with a human boyfriend.
Things take a change for the worse when his brother becomes alpha and and forces all omegas to become pregnant, something Devlin has never wanted.
Unfortunately, he has no choice because omegas are not valued, they're seen as property.
He must choose between two alphas but can't, so both are pressed into service, as it were.
Devlin spends the entirety of the book despising his situation, the pack, the alphas who impregnated him and his horrific lot in life.
This is not an easy story, it's dark and deeply traumatic.
Things take a change for the worse when his brother becomes alpha and and forces all omegas to become pregnant, something Devlin has never wanted.
Unfortunately, he has no choice because omegas are not valued, they're seen as property.
He must choose between two alphas but can't, so both are pressed into service, as it were.
Devlin spends the entirety of the book despising his situation, the pack, the alphas who impregnated him and his horrific lot in life.
This is not an easy story, it's dark and deeply traumatic.
September 26, 2021
j ai beaucoup apprécié cette histoire qui va à contre courant des histoires d'oméga et d alpha. les personnages sont complexes et bien détaillés. Devlin a du obéir à son frère Alpha mais il a dû renoncer à tout ce qui faisait sa vie, pourra t il avec les aides de ses 2 alphas à retrouver un certains équilibres.
August 12, 2017
Intense read
Other reviews have said how my h they hate the protagonist if this story but I don't. This is a great look at how a seriously smart analyst might deal with serious trauma. I liked it. Too may typos etc. Simple fix with one proofread.....
Other reviews have said how my h they hate the protagonist if this story but I don't. This is a great look at how a seriously smart analyst might deal with serious trauma. I liked it. Too may typos etc. Simple fix with one proofread.....
December 11, 2023
In a lot of ways, lackluster. BUT I think this was the most realistic depiction of the psychological reality of becoming/being an omega. I HATE IT SO MUCH when omegas are all easy breezy about things that are so traumatic. This book was satisfyingly visceral.
September 20, 2019
A rating.
February 4, 2021
The mating habits of werewolves
I just love the story about decline growth of becoming a omega and finding Two mates to trust and learn to accept who you are
I just love the story about decline growth of becoming a omega and finding Two mates to trust and learn to accept who you are
October 3, 2023
I’ve read this author before and this one was a struggle. I did pull it up and it looks like this is one of the earlier series. I’m not sure if I’ll continue the series…
December 23, 2023
I loved it so much! I couldn't put it down
December 16, 2024
Queer PNR. Lots of telling with limited showing. A little long and meandering. Exploitative biology. Could have used a good edit.
March 25, 2025
whump whump
Who doesn't love an arranged marriage/forced mating with a very, very, very reluctant party?
Who doesn't love an arranged marriage/forced mating with a very, very, very reluctant party?
January 13, 2018
This was definitely a traumatic read, and I cried often. For that, I give it 4 stars. Devlin is a male omega who has been pursuing his education in Scotland when he learns that his father (the pack's Dominant Alpha) has died in an accident and he needs to return. He takes time to submit his thesis and returns to his younger brother now being he Dominant Alpha. Then his brother, Brennan announces his plans to expand the pack and how every (young) omega is expected to have a child in the following year.
What follows is Devlin losing all the control he once had over his life. He used to date a human who he topped and loved, and now he has to leave his lover. He needs to defend his thesis but his brother won't let him go until he is pregnant (or at least trying really hard). And worst of all, during sex he loses all control of his own body so he can't communicate whether something feels good or bad or if he wants his partners to do something or stop.
The few times Devlin has sex with his chosen Alphas, it traumatizes him to the point that he can't have them touch him. It was rather difficult to read as Devlin was very depressed. I thought he might honestly kill himself if pushed. Everything was just so against his nature. He didn't want to be pregnant and considers abortion. He considers running away from the pack so he never has to go through the pregnancy ordeal again. He considers so many things.
At the same time, Devlin's Alphas are just amazing. They devote all their energy to making Devlin happy because they know how much he doesn't like the forced pregnancy. They don't touch him and instead pursue a sexual relationship with each other. They help face Devlin's brother. They plan how Devlin can work or leave the pack.
By the end, everyone pretty much realizes that maybe forcing Devlin to get pregnant wasn't healthy for him. Though they try to reach out to him, he's just a bit too far gone to really accept their apologies and help. He does start learning to like sex again, or at least, he starts feeling sexual needs again.
Overall, the story is hard to read. Devlin is incredibly cynical and mean. He is constantly in emotional and even physical pain, so he lashes out. Forcing someone to be pregnant, even if they consent to it, is like a rape of another kind. A very long, destructive rape.
What follows is Devlin losing all the control he once had over his life. He used to date a human who he topped and loved, and now he has to leave his lover. He needs to defend his thesis but his brother won't let him go until he is pregnant (or at least trying really hard). And worst of all, during sex he loses all control of his own body so he can't communicate whether something feels good or bad or if he wants his partners to do something or stop.
The few times Devlin has sex with his chosen Alphas, it traumatizes him to the point that he can't have them touch him. It was rather difficult to read as Devlin was very depressed. I thought he might honestly kill himself if pushed. Everything was just so against his nature. He didn't want to be pregnant and considers abortion. He considers running away from the pack so he never has to go through the pregnancy ordeal again. He considers so many things.
At the same time, Devlin's Alphas are just amazing. They devote all their energy to making Devlin happy because they know how much he doesn't like the forced pregnancy. They don't touch him and instead pursue a sexual relationship with each other. They help face Devlin's brother. They plan how Devlin can work or leave the pack.
By the end, everyone pretty much realizes that maybe forcing Devlin to get pregnant wasn't healthy for him. Though they try to reach out to him, he's just a bit too far gone to really accept their apologies and help. He does start learning to like sex again, or at least, he starts feeling sexual needs again.
Overall, the story is hard to read. Devlin is incredibly cynical and mean. He is constantly in emotional and even physical pain, so he lashes out. Forcing someone to be pregnant, even if they consent to it, is like a rape of another kind. A very long, destructive rape.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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October 2, 2017No just no! This book is junk, a long af bucketful of junk! I don't understand the good reviews to this crap(yes I will foerever refer to this book as crap). The main character Devlin is such a shitty selfish self centered crappy ahole! I tried to be simpathetic to him but after hours of his same winny crappy selfcentered shitty behaviour and horrible way of treating hi "mates" I couldn't take it anymore. My biggest regret is that I wasted so many hours reading this garbage. This one goes on my list of hated awful shitty af books, negative 100 stars finally dropped at 63% & there's a 2nd book of more of this crap? HELL Nah! steer away from this garbage people!
March 30, 2016
I loved and enjoyed this wonderful book so much
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