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Deirdre Tombs has lived most her life as the weakest of shapeshifters-an Omega who can't turn into any animal. Now the terrorist known as Everton Stark has made her his Beta. He wants her by his side when he defeats the Office of Preternatural Affairs, kills Rylie Gresham, and becomes Alpha of all shifters. The faeries from the Winter Court have an offer to make Stark's domination easier. They know where to find a cursed sword that can kill anything, and they'll give it to him...for a price. Deirdre's the only one who can keep Stark from getting this powerful weapon-if she wants to. But as brutal as Stark may be, he's also the only one who can give Deirdre what she wants. Vengeance. And Deirdre doesn't know where her loyalties lie anymore.
364 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2015
132 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Reine
114 books2,007 followersHi everyone! My name is Sara, and I write urban fantasy and paranormal novels as SM Reine. I collect swords, cat hair, and typewriters (which I do use for writing!). It's a good day when those three things have nothing to do with each other.
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 27, 2015
Wow. That was unexpected.
I didn't care for this one.
I really enjoyed the first book, Omega, and was excited for this sequel which I happily didn't have to wait very long for. (Reine writes fast!) So it surprised me that I ended up not enjoying this much at all.
I've read many of Reine's books and I've always thought her writing was great, but in this book, I felt that right from chapter one there was a noticable decline in the writing quality. And the dialogue in this entire book seemed really dumbed down, as did the storyline. It was kinda lame.
And the thing I was most excited for -- to see more depth to Everton Stark's character -- definitely did happen, but not in a satisfying way. I've got one word for it all: underwhelmed.
I don't really feel like ripping this book apart, so I'll just leave it at that. I'm disappointed.
This ended with a huge cliffhanger though, and one that actually rekindled some interest back into me. I'll probably read the last book to see how it wraps up, and hopefully it'll work out better for me than this one did.
I didn't care for this one.
I really enjoyed the first book, Omega, and was excited for this sequel which I happily didn't have to wait very long for. (Reine writes fast!) So it surprised me that I ended up not enjoying this much at all.
I've read many of Reine's books and I've always thought her writing was great, but in this book, I felt that right from chapter one there was a noticable decline in the writing quality. And the dialogue in this entire book seemed really dumbed down, as did the storyline. It was kinda lame.
And the thing I was most excited for -- to see more depth to Everton Stark's character -- definitely did happen, but not in a satisfying way. I've got one word for it all: underwhelmed.
I don't really feel like ripping this book apart, so I'll just leave it at that. I'm disappointed.
This ended with a huge cliffhanger though, and one that actually rekindled some interest back into me. I'll probably read the last book to see how it wraps up, and hopefully it'll work out better for me than this one did.
March 6, 2016
Wait. What?
When did the abusive, murderous, psychotic villain in the novel become a love interest for the protagonist?!?!
When did the abusive, murderous, psychotic villain in the novel become a love interest for the protagonist?!?!
April 27, 2015
AAAARGH !!! Please tell me if there is a "Anti Cruelty League for Readers" because I would like to hand SM REine over to them for inflicting emotional cruelty on me for the abusive use of cliffhangers.
I cannot express my frustration levels with this book, is it possible to be in an abusive relationship with a book because this feels like it?
We continue the adventures of Deirdre Tombs the omega of the shifter world who has been promoted to Beta in the Rebellion but is still the traitor within, .......or is she? who has has lost the the love of her life ........or has she? who hates her the leader of the rebellion and all he stands for....or does she? (Please play dramatic music in your head between pauses).
And do we then find out what kind of shifter she is ......
NO WE DONT !!
Will we be buying the next book .......
YES WE WILL !!!
I cannot express my frustration levels with this book, is it possible to be in an abusive relationship with a book because this feels like it?
We continue the adventures of Deirdre Tombs the omega of the shifter world who has been promoted to Beta in the Rebellion but is still the traitor within, .......or is she? who has has lost the the love of her life ........or has she? who hates her the leader of the rebellion and all he stands for....or does she? (Please play dramatic music in your head between pauses).
And do we then find out what kind of shifter she is ......
NO WE DONT !!
Will we be buying the next book .......
YES WE WILL !!!
July 30, 2015
1.5 stars! I'm rounding it up to a full 2 stars only because the writing itself was generally good (that's the 0.5) and for the fact that even though I didn't like the overwhelming majority of this story I did at least finish it. I grudgingly admit that the revelations at the end were somewhat interesting too, though I don't think they really made up for the first half. So maybe it's more like 1.75 stars, but that's getting way too finicky for my liking.
80% of this book is nothing but Deirdre getting slapped around, beaten down, abused, forced to shoot up and generally experiencing a particularly crappy time of things. The biggest disappointment is she allows it. Gone is the quietly strong and defiant woman from the first book who, even as circumstances forced her to do some pretty dark and horrific things, had a clear and definite goal in mind. For most of this book Deirdre is nothing but a passive, fearful shell who acts like an abuse victim (she is!) and is developing a really messed up Stockholm Syndrome with Stark. I see signs of some sort of possible romantic(ish) relationship between them forming and the whole idea is nauseating. Even if Stark immediately stops slapping her about and forcing her to take Lethe, he still did those things and his confused attraction to her seems to be based solely on how much she reminds him of his missing wife .
I've read grim-dark stories before, but usually they have a point. For me this novel was 80% unenjoyable, unrelenting bleakness for its own sake with no deeper message. I'm honestly not sure why I kept reading when at 50% I was pretty much convinced this was going to be a DNF for me.
The last 20% was pretty good though, because that's where the majority of the "we're finally getting some answers" action was. Instead of Deirdre fearfully toeing the line and being spat on, here she was kicking arse against people who really kind of deserved it. Then again if this novel does do one thing right it's in showing that there are no "good guys", just people willing to do a range of horrible things to a greater or lesser extent in order to survive and get what they want. Basically the only message I can take from this book is that everyone with any power is a douchenozzle that the world would be better off without.
Also the cliffhanger ending? Not cool.
Usually for something I'd rate this poorly and didn't like (rather than just be bored by) I wouldn't bother continuing on with the series, but I'm pretty sure the next book is the last one and I'm hoping for some sort of satisfying resolution after having to wade through all this crap. It doesn't have to be a happy ending, but if it's not a fair one I am going to be really bloody angry.
80% of this book is nothing but Deirdre getting slapped around, beaten down, abused, forced to shoot up and generally experiencing a particularly crappy time of things. The biggest disappointment is she allows it. Gone is the quietly strong and defiant woman from the first book who, even as circumstances forced her to do some pretty dark and horrific things, had a clear and definite goal in mind. For most of this book Deirdre is nothing but a passive, fearful shell who acts like an abuse victim (she is!) and is developing a really messed up Stockholm Syndrome with Stark. I see signs of some sort of possible romantic(ish) relationship between them forming and the whole idea is nauseating. Even if Stark immediately stops slapping her about and forcing her to take Lethe, he still did those things and his confused attraction to her seems to be based solely on how much she reminds him of his missing wife .
I've read grim-dark stories before, but usually they have a point. For me this novel was 80% unenjoyable, unrelenting bleakness for its own sake with no deeper message. I'm honestly not sure why I kept reading when at 50% I was pretty much convinced this was going to be a DNF for me.
The last 20% was pretty good though, because that's where the majority of the "we're finally getting some answers" action was. Instead of Deirdre fearfully toeing the line and being spat on, here she was kicking arse against people who really kind of deserved it. Then again if this novel does do one thing right it's in showing that there are no "good guys", just people willing to do a range of horrible things to a greater or lesser extent in order to survive and get what they want. Basically the only message I can take from this book is that everyone with any power is a douchenozzle that the world would be better off without.
Also the cliffhanger ending? Not cool.
Usually for something I'd rate this poorly and didn't like (rather than just be bored by) I wouldn't bother continuing on with the series, but I'm pretty sure the next book is the last one and I'm hoping for some sort of satisfying resolution after having to wade through all this crap. It doesn't have to be a happy ending, but if it's not a fair one I am going to be really bloody angry.
September 17, 2018
Am I supposed to cheer for Everton now? Because, um, no. Anyways, fun, but not as fun as the first one.
April 27, 2015
I received Beta in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that made me hate, admire and sympathize with characters as much as the War of Alphas series has. Let me clarify that for you. I’m not talking about different characters here, it’s fairly common to love one character as much as you hate another. I’m talking about the SAME character. Sure, an author has made me change my opinion about a character more than once, but it usually takes at least a healthy portion of a book to make my opinion of those characters pull a complete about face. S.M. Reine has managed to make me have a love/hate relationship with at least two characters in this series pretty much from the beginning. My loyalties flip sometimes from chapter to chapter. The crazy part is that one of them is the heroine, Deirdre.
Really, I understand where Deirdre’s coming from and I never really hated her. She’s basically a semi-reluctant double agent. It’s no wonder she’s confused. She’s spent her entire life after Genesis feeling betrayed by Rylie. To make things even more complicated, it was Abel who made the final decision about keeping her out of the sanctuary. I know in my mind that all those things make it impossible for her to put her total trust in Rylie or anyone else connected with the sanctuary. I know what happened prior to the Genesis. In my heart, every time Deirdre listens to Stark and doubts Rylie’s intentions I want to reach into the book and shake her and tell her everything… but I can’t. Honestly, it’s beyond frustrating.
Then there was Stark. I really thought it was impossible to feel anything for this man other than hate. I’d be lying if I said that I now like him. Not even close. It’s more a matter of me understanding him just a little bit more. That realization didn’t come until near the end of Beta, but it was a powerful moment.
There wasn’t much down time in Beta. Things happened fast and the players (and sometimes their loyalties) changed just as quickly. Speaking of which, there are a lot more characters to contend with. The battle isn’t just between the Alphas anymore. There’s a lot more at stake and more preternatural beings than ever before. Readers are also getting closer to finding out exactly what Deirdre is and I have a feeling it’s going to bring things to a whole new level for everyone.
Alpha is next, and it was supposed to be the end of the trilogy. Evidently it’s taken on a life of its own because S.M. Reine has hinted that there will probably be another book added to the series. After reading Beta, I totally understand. As awesome as this author is, I have no idea how just one book can wrap up all the crazy developments in this book.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that made me hate, admire and sympathize with characters as much as the War of Alphas series has. Let me clarify that for you. I’m not talking about different characters here, it’s fairly common to love one character as much as you hate another. I’m talking about the SAME character. Sure, an author has made me change my opinion about a character more than once, but it usually takes at least a healthy portion of a book to make my opinion of those characters pull a complete about face. S.M. Reine has managed to make me have a love/hate relationship with at least two characters in this series pretty much from the beginning. My loyalties flip sometimes from chapter to chapter. The crazy part is that one of them is the heroine, Deirdre.
Really, I understand where Deirdre’s coming from and I never really hated her. She’s basically a semi-reluctant double agent. It’s no wonder she’s confused. She’s spent her entire life after Genesis feeling betrayed by Rylie. To make things even more complicated, it was Abel who made the final decision about keeping her out of the sanctuary. I know in my mind that all those things make it impossible for her to put her total trust in Rylie or anyone else connected with the sanctuary. I know what happened prior to the Genesis. In my heart, every time Deirdre listens to Stark and doubts Rylie’s intentions I want to reach into the book and shake her and tell her everything… but I can’t. Honestly, it’s beyond frustrating.
Then there was Stark. I really thought it was impossible to feel anything for this man other than hate. I’d be lying if I said that I now like him. Not even close. It’s more a matter of me understanding him just a little bit more. That realization didn’t come until near the end of Beta, but it was a powerful moment.
There wasn’t much down time in Beta. Things happened fast and the players (and sometimes their loyalties) changed just as quickly. Speaking of which, there are a lot more characters to contend with. The battle isn’t just between the Alphas anymore. There’s a lot more at stake and more preternatural beings than ever before. Readers are also getting closer to finding out exactly what Deirdre is and I have a feeling it’s going to bring things to a whole new level for everyone.
Alpha is next, and it was supposed to be the end of the trilogy. Evidently it’s taken on a life of its own because S.M. Reine has hinted that there will probably be another book added to the series. After reading Beta, I totally understand. As awesome as this author is, I have no idea how just one book can wrap up all the crazy developments in this book.
March 24, 2016
WOW!!!
Talk about betrayal in the most shocking way. WHY... WHY... WHY...
This book started out really lagging for me, I can normally devour one of S.M. Reine's books in a few hours and this took me a few days.
But whatever this book was lacking in the beginning, she made up for it 10 fold by the middle of the book. Seeing more parallels from her others series made this book highly enjoyable. Knowing that the twin falcons from the Decent and Ascension series has a role in this book was very exciting.
But what I loved most was that fact that even after 3 different series, and the first book Omega, Sara made me question Rylie... I actually started to not like Alpha and found myself wanting Stark to win.
And that betrayal... OMG, I never saw that coming, and I am normally pretty good at spotting those things. Looking forward to the third installment, Alpha.
Talk about betrayal in the most shocking way. WHY... WHY... WHY...
This book started out really lagging for me, I can normally devour one of S.M. Reine's books in a few hours and this took me a few days.
But whatever this book was lacking in the beginning, she made up for it 10 fold by the middle of the book. Seeing more parallels from her others series made this book highly enjoyable. Knowing that the twin falcons from the Decent and Ascension series has a role in this book was very exciting.
But what I loved most was that fact that even after 3 different series, and the first book Omega, Sara made me question Rylie... I actually started to not like Alpha and found myself wanting Stark to win.
And that betrayal... OMG, I never saw that coming, and I am normally pretty good at spotting those things. Looking forward to the third installment, Alpha.
April 24, 2017
It was okay.
I don't know how I feel about this book and series. I'm still confused about Genesis and what happened to the world. I generally know what occurred but there's still this underlying mystery of why it happened, the people involved in the change, and possibly how this affects our protagonist.
I also don't really know why Deirdre is still with Stark. (I really don't like him) I feel that she can find some other way to create change. Instead she's just constantly getting used by other people (a pawn in their game) and physically abused by Stark (by the way what is up with that and his behavior?).
The overall power structure of everybody is confusing. Why does everybody insist that Deirdre is an Omega based on her not being able to shift? If anything, the category of unknown that she falls into should be on the same level of an Alpha when you also consider the fact that she can't be compelled. I get that she's special, but so far I'm slowly getting bored with the story even with the ending. The big question is what role Deirdre plays in the big picture and so far it hasn't surfaced.
I don't know how I feel about this book and series. I'm still confused about Genesis and what happened to the world. I generally know what occurred but there's still this underlying mystery of why it happened, the people involved in the change, and possibly how this affects our protagonist.
I also don't really know why Deirdre is still with Stark. (I really don't like him) I feel that she can find some other way to create change. Instead she's just constantly getting used by other people (a pawn in their game) and physically abused by Stark (by the way what is up with that and his behavior?).
The overall power structure of everybody is confusing. Why does everybody insist that Deirdre is an Omega based on her not being able to shift? If anything, the category of unknown that she falls into should be on the same level of an Alpha when you also consider the fact that she can't be compelled. I get that she's special, but so far I'm slowly getting bored with the story even with the ending. The big question is what role Deirdre plays in the big picture and so far it hasn't surfaced.
October 13, 2017
Beta maintains the fast paced action of the first volume, Omega. Deidre continues to seek answer to her nature and to discover which of the warring supernatural factions are the good guys. Everton Stark - who showed such promise as a 'dark hero' in volume 1, devolves into a brutal ass-hat in book 2. His violent treatment of Diedre whom he has elevated to Beta is pretty much turns him from potential 'dark hero' to 'villain.' Unfortunately, there are plenty of hints that Everton is the 'love interest' for all he is abusive. I'll pass on volume 3.
December 30, 2020
I don't know who I like and hate anymore, I'm not sure who's the 'good guy', I'm not even sure who I want to win anymore.
I love it though, the unexpectedness of this series is so rare and amazing, you can't help but love it.
I love it though, the unexpectedness of this series is so rare and amazing, you can't help but love it.
August 27, 2017
Interesting revelations for sure
September 2, 2015
Disclosure: I was given this 4 in 1 book of this series free for review. What I have to add to what is written below is that reading it this way I can hardly tell where one book ends and the next begins. That may be because I am 'reading' rather listening by text-to-speech. I use the British female--sounds like Julie Andrews reading to me! The books are seamlessly woven together. I do not like the main character as much as I do Rylie, the first one we meet in Ms. Reine's worlds and the Alpha that remains Alpha through everything. Deidre is full of flaws and teen mistaken ideas and addictions. Yet, she grows on you and you find yourself rooting for her.
Disclosure: I was gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! What a sequel! I must admit that I am confused as to what our Omega/Beta, Deidre Tombs actually is as a shifter, still we were given a few clues in this book. I really love her character. Shoot, by saying that I show how Sara Reine writes her characters; so realistic that I forgot there is a writer! Yet how realistic is a shapeshifter? Yet, I believe it while reading it. As always, I am left gasping and wanting to become the main character in Stephen King's Misery. I want the next book NOW!!!! I want to see if I am correct in my guesses. Don't worry, Ms. Reine. I'm generally a passive person and have plenty to keep me reading until you can crank out the next.
I was glad to see old friends from Seasons of the Moon and on through other series our prolific author has scribed. By the way, I do highly recommend reading all her books start with Season of the Moon. Her books are full of chills and thrills and characters, places and scenes that are at once unbelievable yet the reader sees everything that is taking place. All senses are engaged and you are there! Beta felt as good as any of her books. And the ending, though not quite a cliffhanger, leaves you wanting to know more. What will happen next? What is she? Great job, Sara!
Disclosure: I was gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! What a sequel! I must admit that I am confused as to what our Omega/Beta, Deidre Tombs actually is as a shifter, still we were given a few clues in this book. I really love her character. Shoot, by saying that I show how Sara Reine writes her characters; so realistic that I forgot there is a writer! Yet how realistic is a shapeshifter? Yet, I believe it while reading it. As always, I am left gasping and wanting to become the main character in Stephen King's Misery. I want the next book NOW!!!! I want to see if I am correct in my guesses. Don't worry, Ms. Reine. I'm generally a passive person and have plenty to keep me reading until you can crank out the next.
I was glad to see old friends from Seasons of the Moon and on through other series our prolific author has scribed. By the way, I do highly recommend reading all her books start with Season of the Moon. Her books are full of chills and thrills and characters, places and scenes that are at once unbelievable yet the reader sees everything that is taking place. All senses are engaged and you are there! Beta felt as good as any of her books. And the ending, though not quite a cliffhanger, leaves you wanting to know more. What will happen next? What is she? Great job, Sara!
May 22, 2019
Beta: An Urban Fantasy Novel - Book 2
Deirdre Tombs is now Everton Stark's Beta. She is not only his Beta, his punching bag and also his user of drugs he forced her to use. This sad Omega continues to be Starks puppet, patsy, murderer, follower of all his evil and murderous demands.
I am still not happy with the second book of this series.
Deirdre is no role model for any woman, young or old. She is as evil as Stark, and continues to follow every single order of this terrorist, murdering madman.
Deirdre is supposed to be taking down Stark, as she works under cover for Rylie Gresham and the OPA. But because she is so weak as a woman/character, she constantly second guesses and shrinks from doing the right thing.
The story line continues to be one of violence and death toward humans, as well as shifters and sidhe (both Winter and Summer Courts). There is a very surprising ending, but if the next two books follow the same theme, then I will be very disappointed.
Kathy Barber Doyle - 5/21/2019
Deirdre Tombs is now Everton Stark's Beta. She is not only his Beta, his punching bag and also his user of drugs he forced her to use. This sad Omega continues to be Starks puppet, patsy, murderer, follower of all his evil and murderous demands.
I am still not happy with the second book of this series.
Deirdre is no role model for any woman, young or old. She is as evil as Stark, and continues to follow every single order of this terrorist, murdering madman.
Deirdre is supposed to be taking down Stark, as she works under cover for Rylie Gresham and the OPA. But because she is so weak as a woman/character, she constantly second guesses and shrinks from doing the right thing.
The story line continues to be one of violence and death toward humans, as well as shifters and sidhe (both Winter and Summer Courts). There is a very surprising ending, but if the next two books follow the same theme, then I will be very disappointed.
Kathy Barber Doyle - 5/21/2019
September 10, 2019
Omega is book 2 in the War of the Alphas series by SM Reine. This series is a continuation of Reine’s long running series which focuses on what happens after Genesis. You can read this series as a standalone series but you get more depth and understanding of the characters and the story setting if you read all of her books.
Deirdre is a mystery shifter, an Omega. She is a shifter; just no one knows what kind. She’s considered weak, a throwaway. Everton Stark has other ideas for her and makes her his Beta. A Beta is the right hand of the Alpha. Deirdre is by far one of my favorite characters in Reine’s books. She is loyal, and tries to fight for the underdog even when her moral compass is out of whack. Reine has an excellent way of bringing her stories to life. Not only can I vividly picture the towns and characters, I feel so connected with each and everyone of them.
Deirdre is a mystery shifter, an Omega. She is a shifter; just no one knows what kind. She’s considered weak, a throwaway. Everton Stark has other ideas for her and makes her his Beta. A Beta is the right hand of the Alpha. Deirdre is by far one of my favorite characters in Reine’s books. She is loyal, and tries to fight for the underdog even when her moral compass is out of whack. Reine has an excellent way of bringing her stories to life. Not only can I vividly picture the towns and characters, I feel so connected with each and everyone of them.
March 15, 2018
Book 1, banging! Book 2, not so much.
The heroine has taken a swift dive in moral and ethics, getting in too deep with the antagonist. It's not so much a paranormal read anymore but the life of a black woman sliding downhill on skates with no brakes. Well, heck, I could just sit on my porch and spectate that for free...lol I'll finish book two because I paid for it in support of the author BUT if it ends as it began 'a day in the life of a black woman with not much going for her but an abusive admirer', I'm going to have to part ways with this series. Will revise if story gets better.
The heroine has taken a swift dive in moral and ethics, getting in too deep with the antagonist. It's not so much a paranormal read anymore but the life of a black woman sliding downhill on skates with no brakes. Well, heck, I could just sit on my porch and spectate that for free...lol I'll finish book two because I paid for it in support of the author BUT if it ends as it began 'a day in the life of a black woman with not much going for her but an abusive admirer', I'm going to have to part ways with this series. Will revise if story gets better.
March 27, 2017
A strong female turns into a codependant drug addict
I really don't get this book or who it's trying to appeal to.
The main character is just so damn WEAK. Sure, she can physically kick ass, but in every other way she is an angry, codependent child. She rages at everyone while still doing EVERYTHING they tell her to. She kills on command, she does drugs on command, she beats her (only) friend to a pulp on command, she dresses like a white on command...
If you're fantasy is to be a codependent robot who likes getting beaten by a man who finds you a poor second choice to the wife he lost, then this book is for you!
I really don't get this book or who it's trying to appeal to.
The main character is just so damn WEAK. Sure, she can physically kick ass, but in every other way she is an angry, codependent child. She rages at everyone while still doing EVERYTHING they tell her to. She kills on command, she does drugs on command, she beats her (only) friend to a pulp on command, she dresses like a white on command...
If you're fantasy is to be a codependent robot who likes getting beaten by a man who finds you a poor second choice to the wife he lost, then this book is for you!
September 22, 2017
Lost its magic
While this is still a good book, it just seems to lack the edge that the first book had. Deirdree just seems to be confused all the time and he reason for staying with stark, who keeps beating and abusing her, is never explained. She is supposed to be strong and independent, yet stays with an abusive man to whom she should show no loyalty. It just doesn't really make sense. Only at the very end do you learn what her animal is, but again, that to is a bit of a let down.
While this is still a good book, it just seems to lack the edge that the first book had. Deirdree just seems to be confused all the time and he reason for staying with stark, who keeps beating and abusing her, is never explained. She is supposed to be strong and independent, yet stays with an abusive man to whom she should show no loyalty. It just doesn't really make sense. Only at the very end do you learn what her animal is, but again, that to is a bit of a let down.
May 2, 2024
Still pretty decent, but I didn't like this one as much as I liked the first book in the series. The more I read, the less I like the main character - This book was definitely still exciting, and filled with lots of twists, but they weren't the sort of twists I particularly wanted to see.
January 5, 2018
Beta Praise!
The growth of the characters from her first book in the series Omega was fantastic and it was great to see how things continue to unfold. You won’t be disappointed with Beta! It was absolutely amazing.
The growth of the characters from her first book in the series Omega was fantastic and it was great to see how things continue to unfold. You won’t be disappointed with Beta! It was absolutely amazing.
March 20, 2018
Awesome.
July 18, 2019
Still good, just not the same without Elise
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2020
this was crazy! a lot of action and the plot twist wow! crazy. did not expect that.
January 18, 2021
Talk about action,blood, feelings.
This book had it all and then some
Truly enjoyed this book.
This book had it all and then some
Truly enjoyed this book.
January 30, 2021
Not happy
Why would you try to make Stark a love interest for Dee. He has beaten the living crap out her. I am anxious to figure out what Dee is
Why would you try to make Stark a love interest for Dee. He has beaten the living crap out her. I am anxious to figure out what Dee is
May 3, 2015
* Attention, contains spoilers for Omega (and possible spoilers for Beta) *
After his failed attack on President Rylie Gresham, Everton Stark in a change of plans invades an OPA prison to free the preternatural convicts incarcerated there. Especially one prisoner, a former team mate, held in solitary confinement.
This opening gives us a reminder of who really are the bad guys. In spite of working now as a part of the executive arm of Rylie’s new government over the preternatural population these guys are still acting every bit as prejudiced and inhuman as they ever have. One can almost come to sympathize with Everton Stark and his cause, almost.
Everton Stark himself seems to have gone even further down the road of hatred and insanity, if ever he was sane to start with, ruling the men and women following his command with merciless violence.
Still, Rylie’s involvement with the OPA and its methods bodes ill for her presidency, not mention putting in question her ethics, and Stark’s exposure of what’s going on behind closed walls in their institutions is bound to sway popular opinion in favour of the terrorist. A climate in which Rylie decides to take an ill-advised, dangerous step.
Meanwhile Stark is about to close a deal with the unseelie court of the Winter Queen, bargaining for the location of a legendary weapon, with Deirdre becoming a key figure in his plan to get hold of it.
Deirdre, still traumatised by the death of former companion and almost lover Gage, sways between belief in Rylie’s ideals of a peaceful together between the preternatural and mundane population, and Everton Stark’s vision of a future free of rigid control for the preternatural community. Although neither Rylie nor Stark could provide her thus far with an answer to her most burning question, What am I?, the latter offers the girl who got to know OPA cruelty on her own body a chance to take revenge.
Omega’s reading experience suffered a bit from being too heavily tied with the events in Ascension. Beta provides an easier reading experience in that regard, necessitating less background knowledge from its readers.
As for the plot.
Well, I did already say about Omega that it reminded me of reading a Super-Hero comic book, and Beta is no different from that. Some of the plot turns can make you go “Uhm, really?”, seeming to convenient, coming out of nowhere, or even just implausible.
Again we are forced to wonder if the Alpha and her mate have ever heard of security and secrecy, or even plain common sense. Yet, I’d be amiss not to admit that this is part of Rylie’s enduring charm for me, even in her mid thirties, holding the possibly most powerful position in the new world order, she’s still every bit the naïve, child like girl choosing to believe in the best in people.
Not to worry, if you prefer your heroines to be more likely to cut your throat than to hug you, Deirdre’s your woman.
Without giving to much away, Deirdre does what Rylie can not or will not do, she’s taking a stand, and it may not be on the same side as the president. There’s unexpected betrayal, and we do finally learn something about Deirdre’s true nature. We also learn that Stark seems to have a mole in the sanctuary, which raises the question, how much does he really know about Deirdre’s relationship with Rylie?
Suffice to say that Beta closes with enough changing allies, new enemies and character revelations to leave you, well, burning to read Alpha.
It’s a story fans will love to read for all the familiar faces and the many references to past friends. For newcomers, I’m afraid Beta will be as unsatisfying an reading experience as Omega was, for the plot is pretty thin and more soap-opera’ish than ever.
If however, you’re up for a somewhat silly adventure story, which even with undertones of domestic violence aims only to provide plain carefree entertainment, then you’re again in for a treat.
On my part, I loved it.
I enjoy losing myself in this world, and I relish every moment I can spend with Rylie.
After his failed attack on President Rylie Gresham, Everton Stark in a change of plans invades an OPA prison to free the preternatural convicts incarcerated there. Especially one prisoner, a former team mate, held in solitary confinement.
This opening gives us a reminder of who really are the bad guys. In spite of working now as a part of the executive arm of Rylie’s new government over the preternatural population these guys are still acting every bit as prejudiced and inhuman as they ever have. One can almost come to sympathize with Everton Stark and his cause, almost.
Everton Stark himself seems to have gone even further down the road of hatred and insanity, if ever he was sane to start with, ruling the men and women following his command with merciless violence.
Still, Rylie’s involvement with the OPA and its methods bodes ill for her presidency, not mention putting in question her ethics, and Stark’s exposure of what’s going on behind closed walls in their institutions is bound to sway popular opinion in favour of the terrorist. A climate in which Rylie decides to take an ill-advised, dangerous step.
Meanwhile Stark is about to close a deal with the unseelie court of the Winter Queen, bargaining for the location of a legendary weapon, with Deirdre becoming a key figure in his plan to get hold of it.
Deirdre, still traumatised by the death of former companion and almost lover Gage, sways between belief in Rylie’s ideals of a peaceful together between the preternatural and mundane population, and Everton Stark’s vision of a future free of rigid control for the preternatural community. Although neither Rylie nor Stark could provide her thus far with an answer to her most burning question, What am I?, the latter offers the girl who got to know OPA cruelty on her own body a chance to take revenge.
Omega’s reading experience suffered a bit from being too heavily tied with the events in Ascension. Beta provides an easier reading experience in that regard, necessitating less background knowledge from its readers.
As for the plot.
Well, I did already say about Omega that it reminded me of reading a Super-Hero comic book, and Beta is no different from that. Some of the plot turns can make you go “Uhm, really?”, seeming to convenient, coming out of nowhere, or even just implausible.
Again we are forced to wonder if the Alpha and her mate have ever heard of security and secrecy, or even plain common sense. Yet, I’d be amiss not to admit that this is part of Rylie’s enduring charm for me, even in her mid thirties, holding the possibly most powerful position in the new world order, she’s still every bit the naïve, child like girl choosing to believe in the best in people.
Not to worry, if you prefer your heroines to be more likely to cut your throat than to hug you, Deirdre’s your woman.
Without giving to much away, Deirdre does what Rylie can not or will not do, she’s taking a stand, and it may not be on the same side as the president. There’s unexpected betrayal, and we do finally learn something about Deirdre’s true nature. We also learn that Stark seems to have a mole in the sanctuary, which raises the question, how much does he really know about Deirdre’s relationship with Rylie?
Suffice to say that Beta closes with enough changing allies, new enemies and character revelations to leave you, well, burning to read Alpha.
It’s a story fans will love to read for all the familiar faces and the many references to past friends. For newcomers, I’m afraid Beta will be as unsatisfying an reading experience as Omega was, for the plot is pretty thin and more soap-opera’ish than ever.
If however, you’re up for a somewhat silly adventure story, which even with undertones of domestic violence aims only to provide plain carefree entertainment, then you’re again in for a treat.
On my part, I loved it.
I enjoy losing myself in this world, and I relish every moment I can spend with Rylie.
March 12, 2018
Wondering where this series is going. Right now I'm not liking Deirdre very much...Book 3 better be good!! :)
May 19, 2015
I gave myself a day between reading this book and writing the review and I'm totally, totally, TOTALLY still all tangled up about it. I mean, I'm in NO WAY a Stark fangirl, but I kinda get why he's doing what he's doing. I don't agree with his methods, but he has his reasons and I kinda hate S.M. Reine for making me feel sympathy for this guy who exhibits classic signs of an abuser AND is more than a little psychotic to boot.
*side eyes S.M. Reine for a moment*
Soooo. Deirdre is still caught in a rough place. She's mourning. She's angry. She waffles between hating Stark and appreciating that he's taking steps to give all shifters a chance. She's iffy on his methods and she challenges him repeatedly because of it, which gives him a reason to beat her to within an inch of her life. CONSTANTLY. Seriously, Deirdre is not in a good place.
Or maybe she's exactly where she needs to be.
As an aside, I can't say I like the mistakes Rylie's made in her years as the Alpha, but I can see why all the responsibility that was suddenly thrust on her shoulders after Genesis might have been overwhelming. I can see how easy it would have been to take the route that she did. She went from being the Alpha to a handful of wolves to being expected to make decisions for the good of an entire population.
So, yeah, I can see how Rylie stumbled in some of her choices. And now those decisions she made that didn't protect children like Deirdre have put her in a dangerous situation.
Big things were revealed in this book that are going to make book 3 VERY interesting. Deirdre, Stark, Rylie... everything's tunneling toward a showdown and I'm all crazy eyed because of it.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
*side eyes S.M. Reine for a moment*
Soooo. Deirdre is still caught in a rough place. She's mourning. She's angry. She waffles between hating Stark and appreciating that he's taking steps to give all shifters a chance. She's iffy on his methods and she challenges him repeatedly because of it, which gives him a reason to beat her to within an inch of her life. CONSTANTLY. Seriously, Deirdre is not in a good place.
Or maybe she's exactly where she needs to be.
As an aside, I can't say I like the mistakes Rylie's made in her years as the Alpha, but I can see why all the responsibility that was suddenly thrust on her shoulders after Genesis might have been overwhelming. I can see how easy it would have been to take the route that she did. She went from being the Alpha to a handful of wolves to being expected to make decisions for the good of an entire population.
So, yeah, I can see how Rylie stumbled in some of her choices. And now those decisions she made that didn't protect children like Deirdre have put her in a dangerous situation.
Big things were revealed in this book that are going to make book 3 VERY interesting. Deirdre, Stark, Rylie... everything's tunneling toward a showdown and I'm all crazy eyed because of it.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 22, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Looking for more gritty urban fantasy in an addictive world? Look no further than this series. It is filled with oodles of messy violence, dirty betrayal, and enough mystery to keep everyone guessing throughout the book.
We meet back up with Deirdre who is the unlucky member for Stark's rebellion. At first she wanted to infiltrate the group, but as the killings pile up and her world gets turned upside down, it is no longer clear where her allegiance lies. Throw in some drug use, fairies, abusive situations, and super weird sexual tension and you've got a pretty confusing situation.
While Stark's mission to take Rylie's place appears to continuing at a steady pace, there are a lot of other questionable activities that lead you to believe he's up to something more nefarious that even taking over the alpha spot. It is a little weird to even contemplate Rylie being a bad guy, but Stark makes a pretty decent case for it. Sure, there's mitigating circumstances, but this book did a good job of selling both sides. We even got some cameos and references thrown in to keep the fans happy as we struggle to reconcile our feelings.
This book took us to some dark places and it will probably only get darker as Deirdre is forced to make her own decisions. With the action so ramped up already, I can't wait to see where we go from here.
Looking for more gritty urban fantasy in an addictive world? Look no further than this series. It is filled with oodles of messy violence, dirty betrayal, and enough mystery to keep everyone guessing throughout the book.
We meet back up with Deirdre who is the unlucky member for Stark's rebellion. At first she wanted to infiltrate the group, but as the killings pile up and her world gets turned upside down, it is no longer clear where her allegiance lies. Throw in some drug use, fairies, abusive situations, and super weird sexual tension and you've got a pretty confusing situation.
While Stark's mission to take Rylie's place appears to continuing at a steady pace, there are a lot of other questionable activities that lead you to believe he's up to something more nefarious that even taking over the alpha spot. It is a little weird to even contemplate Rylie being a bad guy, but Stark makes a pretty decent case for it. Sure, there's mitigating circumstances, but this book did a good job of selling both sides. We even got some cameos and references thrown in to keep the fans happy as we struggle to reconcile our feelings.
This book took us to some dark places and it will probably only get darker as Deirdre is forced to make her own decisions. With the action so ramped up already, I can't wait to see where we go from here.
August 6, 2015
Throughout this whole book I had to wonder when not so much if Deidre would get herself killed. That being said I definitely knew what she was going to be before the end but everything that happened before was interestingly unexpected. Though Stark's confused feelings for her was definitely obvious even with their abusive relationship. It amazes me though that he hasn't figured out that he can't compel her yet. In the beginning of this one though they were both annoying and really Deidre does the stupidest things it surprises me that she lived this long. Stark's secret mission was very obvious from the start though so that wasn't surprised how that ended was. It was all kind of like oh I saw that coming but wait didn't see that. As I just read both Omega and Beta in the last few days I am impatiently waiting to read Alpha.
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