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Alpha #1
Taken
I never thought being saved from pain, degradation and death could come at such a twisted price.
He is nightmares made flesh, the living embodiment of everything I fear. Yet in my darkest hour, he is the one who comes for me.
If he demands my submission in return, how can I deny him?
Taken is the first book in Nora Ash’s dirty, suspense-filled Omegaverse serial. Want your alphas dominating and your romance scorching? This is the story for you.
He is nightmares made flesh, the living embodiment of everything I fear. Yet in my darkest hour, he is the one who comes for me.
If he demands my submission in return, how can I deny him?
Taken is the first book in Nora Ash’s dirty, suspense-filled Omegaverse serial. Want your alphas dominating and your romance scorching? This is the story for you.
43 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2017
395 people are currently reading
1500 people want to read
About the author
Nora Ash
45 books1,257 followersI am Nora Ash, and I write a plethora of different romance books. Some of them are really dirty, some of them are only kinda-dirty, some are paranormal, some are contemporary… Basically, I have a rampant imagination and no way of controlling it, except from just writing down whichever idea pops into my head at the time.
The one thing my books always have in common, though? A great story and a guaranteed HEA.
If you’re ever in doubt about what you’re about to read, have a look at my book page. It has a flame rating for each series, so you know what you’re getting yourself into!
I’m originally from the cold North (AKA Scandinavia) but these days I live in rainy England with my amazing fiancé and our two pesty cats. When I’m not writing, I’m probably reading, watching Real Housewives of Wherever (reality tv it’s my shameful addiction) or hiking in whatever bit of woodland I can find.
Three fun facts about me
I once ran away with a traveling circus
I’m bilingual. Almost-kinda trilingual, but my Spanish is terri-bad these days.
I’m a decent rider (English style only, though)
You can (and definitely should!) keep in touch with me via my newsletter or by joining my Facebook group.
The one thing my books always have in common, though? A great story and a guaranteed HEA.
If you’re ever in doubt about what you’re about to read, have a look at my book page. It has a flame rating for each series, so you know what you’re getting yourself into!
I’m originally from the cold North (AKA Scandinavia) but these days I live in rainy England with my amazing fiancé and our two pesty cats. When I’m not writing, I’m probably reading, watching Real Housewives of Wherever (reality tv it’s my shameful addiction) or hiking in whatever bit of woodland I can find.
Three fun facts about me
I once ran away with a traveling circus
I’m bilingual. Almost-kinda trilingual, but my Spanish is terri-bad these days.
I’m a decent rider (English style only, though)
You can (and definitely should!) keep in touch with me via my newsletter or by joining my Facebook group.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 9, 2019
Whew... this book makes me sweaty AF. Where to start...
Call her unfortunate. A clueless reporter who instantly got heat in the middle of press conference full of Alphas. Luckily, she managed to get the hell out. If it is not, there will be a live gang-bang. But the down side is she's out of her job indefinitely.
However, I'm confused with this lady since her name never mentioned until the end of the book. I also didn't know what to call this lady as an unfortunate or stupid. FFS, as an Omega who is in heat, how could you walk freely in the middle of the night. Of course, there's some "attack". Pft!
Suddenly someone came. Looks like a Big Bad Alpha. He wears mask. This man unknowingly help the lady and slay those evil men. Since our Omega lady is in such a heat, she shamelessly beg the masked Alpha to fuck her. In the middle of disturbing crime scenes. Of course, our stranger is in such a delight to pleasure her. The sex scenes was taking a bit longer than I expected but it was really HOT. In the end, the story still in grey area for me because there's not much info about the lady herself and who is the stranger.
June 5, 2020
I've now read the entire series; 5 stars for the entire series. I read this series out of order, but it does need to be read in order! Things to know: This is a fast-paced serial. I consider it pure smut.
So, 5 smut stars ;)
lol I left a better review for the third book, Mated (no spoilers).
So, 5 smut stars ;)
lol I left a better review for the third book, Mated (no spoilers).
September 19, 2021
Taken is about an omega reporter who goes into heat during a televised election debate. She's suspended, and while she is figuring out how to fill her time, she goes running and oops comes across a group of rapists. She is saved by someone wearing a mask, and then ... well :) This was a standard omegaverse smut read, which is great. I think I'll finish the series, but not right now.
May 23, 2018
The book “Taken” in the Alpha series by Nora Ash started with an intriguing plot on one hand but on the other hand with a dilettante execution.
First of all, it is declared as a book but it isn’t a real “book” for me with a length of 51 pages. Even a magazine or a brochure has more pages.
Secondly, after a very interesting start the writing turned amateurish.
Towards the end, there was not one page, where the heroines’ dialogue was not followed by her inner thoughts of reprimanding herself.
...” Not the smartest thing to say, perhaps, but ...”
...” Not the brightest thing to call out into the dark. ...”
...” It’s the wrong thing to say—it’s a stupid thing to say. ...”
...” It’s a ridiculous plea, but I can’t stop it from spilling past my lips ...”
...” It’s not the sanest response to getting rescued from gang rape, ...”
...”I feel stupid even as I say it, ...”
Well, dear Author, what is it you want to tell me with such a writing style?
Either you purposefully sabotage your heroine and want to let her look stupid, which you achieved, by the way. Or you just let her talk like a normal woman going through a traumatic situation and those self-castigating thoughts wouldn’t be necessary in the first place. It really can’t be that complicated, can it.
On the other hand, one might think it is a space filler, as the story is one of the shortest “books” I have ever accidentally bought and forgotten to check the number of pages.
And not only that, but letting the heroine stand in a public park, in front of a rescuer/killer with her pants down, not quickly pulling them up, because she is afraid to let him out of her sight, really?
What kind of reasoning is that?
Let’s be serious for a second. How is she able to possibly try to defend herself or run away, in case he isn’t a rescuer but a killer, with her freaking pants around her ankles? But her logic is not for me to question, I guess, only if it is worth buying the next book.
And sadly that writing style, made me apprehensive towards the development of the heroines character. And I won’t be continuing with the story, especially after checking the pages of the next so called “book”, which border on ridiculousness with 61 pages. What happened to the profession of writing complete books these days?
First of all, it is declared as a book but it isn’t a real “book” for me with a length of 51 pages. Even a magazine or a brochure has more pages.
Secondly, after a very interesting start the writing turned amateurish.
Towards the end, there was not one page, where the heroines’ dialogue was not followed by her inner thoughts of reprimanding herself.
...” Not the smartest thing to say, perhaps, but ...”
...” Not the brightest thing to call out into the dark. ...”
...” It’s the wrong thing to say—it’s a stupid thing to say. ...”
...” It’s a ridiculous plea, but I can’t stop it from spilling past my lips ...”
...” It’s not the sanest response to getting rescued from gang rape, ...”
...”I feel stupid even as I say it, ...”
Well, dear Author, what is it you want to tell me with such a writing style?
Either you purposefully sabotage your heroine and want to let her look stupid, which you achieved, by the way. Or you just let her talk like a normal woman going through a traumatic situation and those self-castigating thoughts wouldn’t be necessary in the first place. It really can’t be that complicated, can it.
On the other hand, one might think it is a space filler, as the story is one of the shortest “books” I have ever accidentally bought and forgotten to check the number of pages.
And not only that, but letting the heroine stand in a public park, in front of a rescuer/killer with her pants down, not quickly pulling them up, because she is afraid to let him out of her sight, really?
What kind of reasoning is that?
Let’s be serious for a second. How is she able to possibly try to defend herself or run away, in case he isn’t a rescuer but a killer, with her freaking pants around her ankles? But her logic is not for me to question, I guess, only if it is worth buying the next book.
And sadly that writing style, made me apprehensive towards the development of the heroines character. And I won’t be continuing with the story, especially after checking the pages of the next so called “book”, which border on ridiculousness with 61 pages. What happened to the profession of writing complete books these days?
December 15, 2021
Novella about un-named h after she reacts to Alpha pheromones. Her response causes a riot so she gets suspended from her job. She continues to cause mayhem by going for a late night run knowing she's in heat. It seemed to be an intro to a series, but too silly to continue.
June 13, 2017
*fans self* Short but hot! Onto the next one :)
February 10, 2019
This author likes to rip off her readers!
I've noticed a bunch of Nora Ash books are always 3 parts this one I was stupid enough to purchase the first one since it was only .99 cents and after reading the very short story I should have listened to the review I read and kept my money! This book is only 60 something pages long the second book is around the same and costs $2.99 the third and final book is I think around 70 pages and cost $2.99...paying $7 for a series of books that combined are less then 200 pages long is a absolute rip off! This author clearly doesn't value her fans other wise she would drasticly reduce the prices on these immediately! I hate it because she does write good stories even if the leading lady is stupid as all get out, but I'm just not okay with handing someone my money when it's so obvious they're ripping me off...
I've noticed a bunch of Nora Ash books are always 3 parts this one I was stupid enough to purchase the first one since it was only .99 cents and after reading the very short story I should have listened to the review I read and kept my money! This book is only 60 something pages long the second book is around the same and costs $2.99 the third and final book is I think around 70 pages and cost $2.99...paying $7 for a series of books that combined are less then 200 pages long is a absolute rip off! This author clearly doesn't value her fans other wise she would drasticly reduce the prices on these immediately! I hate it because she does write good stories even if the leading lady is stupid as all get out, but I'm just not okay with handing someone my money when it's so obvious they're ripping me off...
December 9, 2018
I've been hooked on omegaverse ever since I read Addison Cain's Alpha's Claim series and figured this was right up my alley. It was and it wasn't. Yes it has a lot of the same aspects as the Alpha's Claim series but at the same time due to the incredibly short length of it, it doesn't have the same well done world building as the other. While the series is enjoyable, it lacks fully fleshed out characters and all the divine ups and downs in the relationships that I crave.
Not bad, but really it would have worked better as a full length series.
Not bad, but really it would have worked better as a full length series.
October 14, 2018
DARK, DELICIOUS, & SEXY!!!
Title: Taken
Series: Alpha
Author: Nora Ash
Designation: Book 1 of 3 Part Serial, NOT A Standalone, Cliffhanger Ahead #omegaverse #romance #erotic #hotalphas
Reading Platform: Kindle Edition
My Rating: Four Sinfully Sexy Stars****
Oh my! Somebody call 911! I may have actually swooned after reading Taken, the first book of the Alpha Omegaverse serial by Nora Ash! And this is only the first installment! I was completely captivated, hanging on the edge of my seat with a death-grip on my ereader while my heart fluttered wildly in my chest, and this was in the first chapter! lol... By the time I got to the last page, I was heaving for my next breath. No one writes erotic romance quite like Nora Ash. I've been a fan for years and race to Amazon every time she has a new release and Ash didn't disappoint in Taken! Did I like this book? Yes, very much! Now, let me tell you why!
Taken is an imaginative, riveting, seductive, fast-paced, well-crafted, easy-to-follow erotic romance with strong omegaverse elements. For folks unfamiliar with the term, Omegaverse is a subgenre of fan fiction in which canine-type characteristics are given to the characters, including alpha/beta/omega designations and usually contains strong themes of dominance, submission, possession, and typically also includes the strong use of 'soul mates' and the concept of sex or mating as a biological imperative. It varies with each author but I've always found Ash's work in this particular fandom to be fascinating as well as titillating. The narrative is beautifully written with a first-person perspective from the heroine but as of yet, we don't know her identity. The dialogue is smart, snappy, sexy, well-executed, flows effortlessly, and is balanced with the perfect combination of internal monologue. But the piece de resistance of every Ash story is her cast of always unique and intriguing characters. One of the things I love most about Ash's writing is her ability to write harsh, gruff, growly, and bad to the bone alpha antiheroes and somehow make them sexy, engaging, and endearing to the reader. This is only the first installment, so we haven't been formally introduced to the hero, or dare I say antihero. At this point, it's yet to be determined, but that's another thing I love about Ash's work, her ability to always keep the reader guessing. No spoilers from me, but I will say this... Sexy, growly Alphas who take what they want-check! Beautiful reporter who's in way over her head-check! Pulse-pounding danger, heart-seizing action, compelling drama, undeniable attraction, inescapable submission, explosive passion, and steamy sex-you bet! That and a whole lot more!
So I'll ask again, did I like it? Yes, very much! Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but only for adult readers. It does contain explicit language, violence, and sex, and definitely not suitable for anyone under 17. If you've never read Omegaverse fan fiction, don't knock it till you've tried it! If you enjoy paranormal romance with elements of BDSM, you'll probably love this story! But FYI, these Alphas are not shifters, they're human with an overabundance of testosterone and alpha pheromones. As I stated above, this is not a standalone read and does end with a cliffhanger. Since this is only the first installment, it makes it difficult to rate the story but so far, so good. There are two more books in this serial and both are already available. Will I read this author again? Absolutely! I've already purchased the second and third books, Alpha Masquerade and Alpha Mated, which I intend to dive into immediately! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
Title: Taken
Series: Alpha
Author: Nora Ash
Designation: Book 1 of 3 Part Serial, NOT A Standalone, Cliffhanger Ahead #omegaverse #romance #erotic #hotalphas
Reading Platform: Kindle Edition
My Rating: Four Sinfully Sexy Stars****
Oh my! Somebody call 911! I may have actually swooned after reading Taken, the first book of the Alpha Omegaverse serial by Nora Ash! And this is only the first installment! I was completely captivated, hanging on the edge of my seat with a death-grip on my ereader while my heart fluttered wildly in my chest, and this was in the first chapter! lol... By the time I got to the last page, I was heaving for my next breath. No one writes erotic romance quite like Nora Ash. I've been a fan for years and race to Amazon every time she has a new release and Ash didn't disappoint in Taken! Did I like this book? Yes, very much! Now, let me tell you why!
Taken is an imaginative, riveting, seductive, fast-paced, well-crafted, easy-to-follow erotic romance with strong omegaverse elements. For folks unfamiliar with the term, Omegaverse is a subgenre of fan fiction in which canine-type characteristics are given to the characters, including alpha/beta/omega designations and usually contains strong themes of dominance, submission, possession, and typically also includes the strong use of 'soul mates' and the concept of sex or mating as a biological imperative. It varies with each author but I've always found Ash's work in this particular fandom to be fascinating as well as titillating. The narrative is beautifully written with a first-person perspective from the heroine but as of yet, we don't know her identity. The dialogue is smart, snappy, sexy, well-executed, flows effortlessly, and is balanced with the perfect combination of internal monologue. But the piece de resistance of every Ash story is her cast of always unique and intriguing characters. One of the things I love most about Ash's writing is her ability to write harsh, gruff, growly, and bad to the bone alpha antiheroes and somehow make them sexy, engaging, and endearing to the reader. This is only the first installment, so we haven't been formally introduced to the hero, or dare I say antihero. At this point, it's yet to be determined, but that's another thing I love about Ash's work, her ability to always keep the reader guessing. No spoilers from me, but I will say this... Sexy, growly Alphas who take what they want-check! Beautiful reporter who's in way over her head-check! Pulse-pounding danger, heart-seizing action, compelling drama, undeniable attraction, inescapable submission, explosive passion, and steamy sex-you bet! That and a whole lot more!
So I'll ask again, did I like it? Yes, very much! Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but only for adult readers. It does contain explicit language, violence, and sex, and definitely not suitable for anyone under 17. If you've never read Omegaverse fan fiction, don't knock it till you've tried it! If you enjoy paranormal romance with elements of BDSM, you'll probably love this story! But FYI, these Alphas are not shifters, they're human with an overabundance of testosterone and alpha pheromones. As I stated above, this is not a standalone read and does end with a cliffhanger. Since this is only the first installment, it makes it difficult to rate the story but so far, so good. There are two more books in this serial and both are already available. Will I read this author again? Absolutely! I've already purchased the second and third books, Alpha Masquerade and Alpha Mated, which I intend to dive into immediately! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
February 21, 2024
Unfortunately it felt like one chapter and not a short story. Also because of this, I didn't completely fall in love with both main characters.. and I still feel a little torn if I really like our "alpha" or not.
The author's writing style is obviously great, which is not good for readers like me - English is not my native language. I think I speak well and in most cases I can read books without any problems, but excessively literary and unusual words I simply have to translate. Which I really don't enjoy five times in one page.
The story itself was more than interesting, it's definitely not some simple, stupid cliche plot. The spicy scene was perfect!! But because of the things I listed above, I won't buy the sequel. 7/10.
The author's writing style is obviously great, which is not good for readers like me - English is not my native language. I think I speak well and in most cases I can read books without any problems, but excessively literary and unusual words I simply have to translate. Which I really don't enjoy five times in one page.
The story itself was more than interesting, it's definitely not some simple, stupid cliche plot. The spicy scene was perfect!! But because of the things I listed above, I won't buy the sequel. 7/10.
April 26, 2025
listened to the audiobook, literally what the fuck! it totally and completely lost me when she was kidnapped. ridiculous plot to justify porn. "battered chute" "sheath" "channel" JUST SAY VAGINA. wasn't sexy, very cringe
January 6, 2020
THIS REVIEW IS BASED ON THE ENTIRE TRILOGY.
ALPHA SERIES WAS A QUICKIE READ IF YOU'RE SHORT ON TIME, AND JUST WANT TO INDULGE IN A LITTLE OMEGAVERSE SMUT. I CAN'T SAY I WAS SMITTEN BY THE PLOT, BECAUSE SOME PARTS JUST DIDN'T MAKE SENSE BUT I'M NOT COMPLAINING SINCE IT DID THE JOB OF ENTERTAINING ME FOR THE SAKE OF IT.
HERO was a no brainer when we were first indirectly introduced to him at the first chapter. I don't want to spoil the mystery behind his true persona in reality, so I'm going to keep his identity to myself. Just know that you'll expect him to act like an alpha, on his base instincts but a protective mate. The down side was that we didn't get time to explore his character as a whole since this was close to being a novella.
HEROINE presented to her fated alpha in a room full of other alphas. No one knows WHY it happens and that's the annoying part to Nora Ash's stories. She writes Omegaverse but there's no background to her fictional setting and the base compound...like where did it all begin? Heroine pretty much acted like any Omega but the only part I was confused was....IS SHE HUMAN or were all FEMALES in that world naturally Omegas?
OVERALL if you ask yourself too much questions, there's definitely loose plot holes here and there but for the sake of entertainment and seriously the lack of Omegaverse stories out there (the really good ones), this will have to do.
ALPHA SERIES WAS A QUICKIE READ IF YOU'RE SHORT ON TIME, AND JUST WANT TO INDULGE IN A LITTLE OMEGAVERSE SMUT. I CAN'T SAY I WAS SMITTEN BY THE PLOT, BECAUSE SOME PARTS JUST DIDN'T MAKE SENSE BUT I'M NOT COMPLAINING SINCE IT DID THE JOB OF ENTERTAINING ME FOR THE SAKE OF IT.
HERO was a no brainer when we were first indirectly introduced to him at the first chapter. I don't want to spoil the mystery behind his true persona in reality, so I'm going to keep his identity to myself. Just know that you'll expect him to act like an alpha, on his base instincts but a protective mate. The down side was that we didn't get time to explore his character as a whole since this was close to being a novella.
HEROINE presented to her fated alpha in a room full of other alphas. No one knows WHY it happens and that's the annoying part to Nora Ash's stories. She writes Omegaverse but there's no background to her fictional setting and the base compound...like where did it all begin? Heroine pretty much acted like any Omega but the only part I was confused was....IS SHE HUMAN or were all FEMALES in that world naturally Omegas?
OVERALL if you ask yourself too much questions, there's definitely loose plot holes here and there but for the sake of entertainment and seriously the lack of Omegaverse stories out there (the really good ones), this will have to do.
April 14, 2021
My review for all three books is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show.... There are no spoilers.
April 26, 2025
Listened to the audio book on a long drive - should have pulled over to DNF
You're going to show the video ON THE NEWS !!!?!!!??? like full knot ON THE NEWS dick and balls / in / her ON THE NEWS !!!!????!!
No, thank you.
You're going to show the video ON THE NEWS !!!?!!!??? like full knot ON THE NEWS dick and balls / in / her ON THE NEWS !!!!????!!
No, thank you.
June 23, 2023
Not bad!! Not bad
Didn’t really expect the writing to be this good. The story line is kinda off and I’m partially confused so lets see what happens
Didn’t really expect the writing to be this good. The story line is kinda off and I’m partially confused so lets see what happens
Read
May 25, 2025This is not a book! The 37 page long thing is not a book people! It reads like ONE chapter of something bigger. Interesting and not badly written but NOT A BOOK!
July 13, 2023
*Audiobook Review*
*Spoilers Ahead*
I listened to this series as one book, so I am unsure where one book ends and the other begins, so in short, I really liked this series until they actually mated and then they just got annoying.
*Spoilers Ahead*
I listened to this series as one book, so I am unsure where one book ends and the other begins, so in short, I really liked this series until they actually mated and then they just got annoying.
January 23, 2026
Sometimes I feel like I’m not old enough to read some of this stuff. Good heavens. 3.5.
March 21, 2017
Alpha: Taken by Nora Ash is the first book in her Omegaverse series and it was a very erotic read. Nora Ash did explain in her newsletter that this book was her inspiration and later reworked to be her Darkness series so if you have read her Darkness series you will probably run into some scenes that are similar. However, I found Alpha: Taken to be different enough to be enjoyable in itself without constantly comparing the two. Moreover, like the Darkness series this book is going to be released in parts and like the Darkness series will probably be bundled together when it is complete.
Alpha: Taken is written in the first person POV (the reporters), and I usually have no problem with it, until I went to write this review and realized I had no idea what the female reporter's name is. I looked back through the book, read the blurb again (also in the first person POV) and couldn't find it anywhere. I did finally find it in the preview at the end of the book for the next book in the series Masquerade. The reporter gets a delivery, and the delivery guy confirms that her name is Miss Adams. Yep, that is correct I still don't know her first name. Maybe I will find out in the next part of the series. Something to look forward to...
Anyhow, besides that, the book is an awesome read. Nora Ash sucks you in and doesn't let you go until the end of the book. I really enjoyed the characters and the alphas being all dominate and how clueless the reporter is about the nature of her own body. This book does end on a cliffhanger, and I am eagerly awaiting the next part to see what happens next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Alpha: Taken is written in the first person POV (the reporters), and I usually have no problem with it, until I went to write this review and realized I had no idea what the female reporter's name is. I looked back through the book, read the blurb again (also in the first person POV) and couldn't find it anywhere. I did finally find it in the preview at the end of the book for the next book in the series Masquerade. The reporter gets a delivery, and the delivery guy confirms that her name is Miss Adams. Yep, that is correct I still don't know her first name. Maybe I will find out in the next part of the series. Something to look forward to...
Anyhow, besides that, the book is an awesome read. Nora Ash sucks you in and doesn't let you go until the end of the book. I really enjoyed the characters and the alphas being all dominate and how clueless the reporter is about the nature of her own body. This book does end on a cliffhanger, and I am eagerly awaiting the next part to see what happens next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
August 8, 2017
Dark erotic omegaverse stories are my favorite. The series is set in a world like earth, but the biology for its people are different. There are some twists and turns to keep you turning the pages. However, this is an incredibly short series. Book one is only 31 pages of actual story. Book two is 47 and book 3 is 52 pages. In total you only get 130 pages of story. That is why I only gave this 2 stars. This whole story should have been one book.
August 19, 2021
So reviewing this book on its own was a 4. The whole series gets a 3. Very interesting premise. Book 1 starts off with a bang literally lol very intriguing and mysterious. However down the rabbit hole of books 2-3 the whole series barely is 1 full book. Too many loose ends and plot points that aren’t fully fleshed out. Once again, this book in itself was interesting but thr story as a whole leaves a lot to be desired
May 4, 2021
Um, so you go into heat in the middle of press conference.. which is fine as I understood, it has never before happened to her.
But then she goes for a run in a dark empty park? How stupid you have to be? Heat or no heat, no one in their right mind goes at dark for a run, to a deserted park. I live in the safest country in the world and still wouldn't do it.
But then she goes for a run in a dark empty park? How stupid you have to be? Heat or no heat, no one in their right mind goes at dark for a run, to a deserted park. I live in the safest country in the world and still wouldn't do it.
September 13, 2017
Interesting worldbuilding though the h was tstl and had hardly any sensible dialogues...
3.5 stars!
3.5 stars!
February 28, 2022
Not much to say, lots of inconsistencies and violence and house hormone issues the book serves its primary purpose so I'm not going to complain.
November 26, 2024
There really isn’t anything I liked about this novel besides the author who wrote it. I loved Nora Ash’s Made and Broken series, but any books regarding the Omegaverse are books I have absolutely no interest in… and the only reason I gave this book a read was to give the Omegaverse as a whole one last chance before giving it up forever.
I had no favorite characters in reading Taken, even if the alpha males are dominating and get girls’ panties wet with desire, or who make Beta-girls “Present,” whatever that means… How is this romance novel described as scorching hot? I didn’t get a single heated-with-desire feeling throughout reading this!
Overall in reading this book, I felt a great deal of irritation, because when I read a dark romance novel, or a book of any sort, I want things to make sense, and whenever the Omegaverse is mentioned, I get irritated, because it’s something I don’t understand, no matter how hard I try to. Reading this was a bust, but I can’t pass up a Nora Ash novel, so I’m (maybe) 2% happy I read this…? But even then, it’s a huge stretch…
I had no favorite parts; even the smut in this novel was subpar! When I read a dark romance novel, I want to experience all the feels and heated, passionate moments, but this didn’t get me there, which I deemed as a fail in reading this novel—my deep apologies to Nora Ash!
If I had to state blunt clarifications on whether this book left a positive impact or a negative impact on me, I’d lean more towards negative, because I didn’t like this nearly as much as I thought I would, and it was only at the halfway point I realized this was an Omegaverse novel, and the last of my desires to finish this novel were quickly killed off… yes, even though I did finish this novel.
The biggest thing I disliked in reading this novel was the forty-something minutes of my life I spent reading this book; that’s forty-something minutes of my life I won’t ever get back! It was a waste of my time, and that’s time spent I could’ve dedicated to reading a different book that I could’ve loved so much more!
Even though I read this book in less than an hour, I don’t consider this at all a page-turner. The pace would be titillating to Omegaverse fans’ curiosities, but to me, it was a bookish blunder bust! I skipped over pages and pages to get to the smut, and when the smut failed to impress me, I skipped to the end, so there are glaring blind spots for character development between Whatshername and the Alpha who saved her, but again, I wasted my time reading this novel! It’s beyond clear to me that Omegaverse novels aren’t at all my thing, so I’ll likely never read another after this…
If I was the author of Taken, the first book in the Alpha series by Nora Ash, there’s so much I’d change in this book that it wouldn’t even be the same book anymore, like—
I’d alter the Omegaverse to some sort of primal lust alternate reality involving werewolves.
I’d explain werewolf biology and give a different flair to females Presenting.
I’d change the assault scene to something good and sexy instead of fear-inducing and dark.
Little to do with the plot, I’d rename the characters to have more memorable names that sound more werewolf-y and feral-sounding instead of this Omega name stuff.
And I’d delve into the backstory behind the fated mates for Whatshername and the Alpha who saved her from being assaulted further.
Hmm… I wish I could say this novella was fun and memorable, but I find it a forgettable smut story that didn’t live up to my hopes. I don’t at all understand the Omegaverse, nor the concept of “Presenting,” whatever that means, and I felt this novella was too… pro-feminist for my tastes. I prefer fated mates romances with less political talk, which, in reading this, just left me confused overall. I’ll likely forget I read this a week from now, but I do love other Nora Ash novels, so yes, I will be a return reader to her work, just not this one—sorry!
I had no favorite characters in reading Taken, even if the alpha males are dominating and get girls’ panties wet with desire, or who make Beta-girls “Present,” whatever that means… How is this romance novel described as scorching hot? I didn’t get a single heated-with-desire feeling throughout reading this!
Overall in reading this book, I felt a great deal of irritation, because when I read a dark romance novel, or a book of any sort, I want things to make sense, and whenever the Omegaverse is mentioned, I get irritated, because it’s something I don’t understand, no matter how hard I try to. Reading this was a bust, but I can’t pass up a Nora Ash novel, so I’m (maybe) 2% happy I read this…? But even then, it’s a huge stretch…
I had no favorite parts; even the smut in this novel was subpar! When I read a dark romance novel, I want to experience all the feels and heated, passionate moments, but this didn’t get me there, which I deemed as a fail in reading this novel—my deep apologies to Nora Ash!
If I had to state blunt clarifications on whether this book left a positive impact or a negative impact on me, I’d lean more towards negative, because I didn’t like this nearly as much as I thought I would, and it was only at the halfway point I realized this was an Omegaverse novel, and the last of my desires to finish this novel were quickly killed off… yes, even though I did finish this novel.
The biggest thing I disliked in reading this novel was the forty-something minutes of my life I spent reading this book; that’s forty-something minutes of my life I won’t ever get back! It was a waste of my time, and that’s time spent I could’ve dedicated to reading a different book that I could’ve loved so much more!
Even though I read this book in less than an hour, I don’t consider this at all a page-turner. The pace would be titillating to Omegaverse fans’ curiosities, but to me, it was a bookish blunder bust! I skipped over pages and pages to get to the smut, and when the smut failed to impress me, I skipped to the end, so there are glaring blind spots for character development between Whatshername and the Alpha who saved her, but again, I wasted my time reading this novel! It’s beyond clear to me that Omegaverse novels aren’t at all my thing, so I’ll likely never read another after this…
If I was the author of Taken, the first book in the Alpha series by Nora Ash, there’s so much I’d change in this book that it wouldn’t even be the same book anymore, like—
I’d alter the Omegaverse to some sort of primal lust alternate reality involving werewolves.
I’d explain werewolf biology and give a different flair to females Presenting.
I’d change the assault scene to something good and sexy instead of fear-inducing and dark.
Little to do with the plot, I’d rename the characters to have more memorable names that sound more werewolf-y and feral-sounding instead of this Omega name stuff.
And I’d delve into the backstory behind the fated mates for Whatshername and the Alpha who saved her from being assaulted further.
Hmm… I wish I could say this novella was fun and memorable, but I find it a forgettable smut story that didn’t live up to my hopes. I don’t at all understand the Omegaverse, nor the concept of “Presenting,” whatever that means, and I felt this novella was too… pro-feminist for my tastes. I prefer fated mates romances with less political talk, which, in reading this, just left me confused overall. I’ll likely forget I read this a week from now, but I do love other Nora Ash novels, so yes, I will be a return reader to her work, just not this one—sorry!
May 29, 2018
This is the start of a novel that has been broken into three parts. Each takes off where the last left off, and none are terribly long. As a whole, the series (story) was good, but I'm not a big fan of one book broken into three so the author can get more money. So I knocked off a star for that in my review.
This is the opening book in the "omegaverse" created by the author. Men are divided into alphas and betas. Women are pretty much normal, with a couple inherent traits. Betas are smaller, and calmer. Alphas rule the world. They are bigger than every one else. They growl, purr, roar, are excessively domineering and violent when the need arises. They are quite well endowed and knot during sex. They find a mate, and mark her for life by biting her neck. All of this is explained during the three stories in this series.
Taken, book 1, has the main lady meet the main male, and once they have made eye contact, she goes into a form of heat for him. Craziness ensues, as it is during a public press conference and there are alphas everywhere. They all want her. A few days later, he finds her, but he is masked. His identity is not revealed until later in book two. Crazy hot sex scene. The end. I was slightly ticked at this point that I needed book two to keep reading their story.
Good writing. Sucked me right in! I stayed up too late reading, because I couldn't put it down. Finished and immediately started in on book 2.
This is the opening book in the "omegaverse" created by the author. Men are divided into alphas and betas. Women are pretty much normal, with a couple inherent traits. Betas are smaller, and calmer. Alphas rule the world. They are bigger than every one else. They growl, purr, roar, are excessively domineering and violent when the need arises. They are quite well endowed and knot during sex. They find a mate, and mark her for life by biting her neck. All of this is explained during the three stories in this series.
Taken, book 1, has the main lady meet the main male, and once they have made eye contact, she goes into a form of heat for him. Craziness ensues, as it is during a public press conference and there are alphas everywhere. They all want her. A few days later, he finds her, but he is masked. His identity is not revealed until later in book two. Crazy hot sex scene. The end. I was slightly ticked at this point that I needed book two to keep reading their story.
Good writing. Sucked me right in! I stayed up too late reading, because I couldn't put it down. Finished and immediately started in on book 2.
April 28, 2024
Combined Review - 3 Novellas (Alpha) 1)Taken 2) Masquerade 3) Mated
Written by Nora Ash Published 2017
Set in a modern omegavers world a female reporter unexpectedly presents during a crowded political debate triggering public mayhem (all the political candidates on stage being alphas.) Her life is turned upside down and to make matters worse she’s now caught the attention of a mystery alpha whose attentions have become quite obsessed.
The novelllas are a fast entertaining read. Nora Ash writes exclusively omegavers with high spice factor. Though fewer pages these are true to Ash’s style.
I listened to the audiobooks. 1 female narrator was used to convey this single POV books. I was not impressed with the audiobook experience and would recommend you skip, go straight to your favorite way to consume text and just read. The story’s themselves I’d give a 3.5 round up to 4 star ⭐️ rating. Interested to see what Ash beef them up with in the re-write.
The author seems to be revisiting this story and recently expanding them to full novels. See the Alpha Ties series published 2021-2022.
Written by Nora Ash Published 2017
Set in a modern omegavers world a female reporter unexpectedly presents during a crowded political debate triggering public mayhem (all the political candidates on stage being alphas.) Her life is turned upside down and to make matters worse she’s now caught the attention of a mystery alpha whose attentions have become quite obsessed.
The novelllas are a fast entertaining read. Nora Ash writes exclusively omegavers with high spice factor. Though fewer pages these are true to Ash’s style.
I listened to the audiobooks. 1 female narrator was used to convey this single POV books. I was not impressed with the audiobook experience and would recommend you skip, go straight to your favorite way to consume text and just read. The story’s themselves I’d give a 3.5 round up to 4 star ⭐️ rating. Interested to see what Ash beef them up with in the re-write.
The author seems to be revisiting this story and recently expanding them to full novels. See the Alpha Ties series published 2021-2022.
October 26, 2025
*takes deep breathe* Yikes.
I've been on a roll this year with great reads, so it was bound to happen eventually, but there really wasn't a single part of me that could really enjoy this. I've been craving a quick omegaverse (or monster romance), and I thought this novella series would be perfect to scratch my itch. The premise was incredibly intriguing to me, and I love a dark story when it's done well. This wasn't done well.
The FMC is irritatingly naive; she borders on stupid. Presenting in public is not her fault, but every decision she made after, was her fault. (I am not saying her almost getting 🍇is her fault, but her putting herself out in the open after what she just experienced was neglectful to herself and annoying to read.)
I usually try to stick these things out, but I've started valuing my time and mental health a bit more, so I'm gonna move on to something that will hopefully work for me more.
I've been on a roll this year with great reads, so it was bound to happen eventually, but there really wasn't a single part of me that could really enjoy this. I've been craving a quick omegaverse (or monster romance), and I thought this novella series would be perfect to scratch my itch. The premise was incredibly intriguing to me, and I love a dark story when it's done well. This wasn't done well.
The FMC is irritatingly naive; she borders on stupid. Presenting in public is not her fault, but every decision she made after, was her fault. (I am not saying her almost getting 🍇is her fault, but her putting herself out in the open after what she just experienced was neglectful to herself and annoying to read.)
I usually try to stick these things out, but I've started valuing my time and mental health a bit more, so I'm gonna move on to something that will hopefully work for me more.
October 9, 2017
Alpha: Taken, by Nora Ash, is the first of 3 novellas in her Omegaverse series. It is a short, faced paced read about a reporter, Leigh Adams, who "goes into *heat*", in a room full of Alphas. This incident reeks havoc on Leigh's life.
This is the first book that I've read from Nora Ash, but it won't be the last! The story grabbed me from the first page and I didn't put it down until the very last page. It is well written, includes some action, a bit of mystery and some super hot, erotic scenes that are sizzling. Ms. Ash managed to fit a lot of good story in such a short amount of pages. Of course, I would've liked the story to be longer because I thought it was great, but I did, however, find it hard to believe that a woman who is a journalist (and therefore has completed college and knows how to do research for an article) could be so uninformed about her own body??? Overall, I really enjoyed reading this novella and can't wait to read the next one.
This is the first book that I've read from Nora Ash, but it won't be the last! The story grabbed me from the first page and I didn't put it down until the very last page. It is well written, includes some action, a bit of mystery and some super hot, erotic scenes that are sizzling. Ms. Ash managed to fit a lot of good story in such a short amount of pages. Of course, I would've liked the story to be longer because I thought it was great, but I did, however, find it hard to believe that a woman who is a journalist (and therefore has completed college and knows how to do research for an article) could be so uninformed about her own body??? Overall, I really enjoyed reading this novella and can't wait to read the next one.
February 21, 2018
That girl did what in a room full of Alphas?!
4 STARS
Omega Taken is an intense quick read that introduces you into the world of Alpha’s. This Omegaverse plot/trope
/themed story focuses on a young reporter named Leigh who has “presented” in a room crowded with alpha politicians and news reporters. Poor Leigh does not understand what has happened to her nor can she figure out why all the Alpha males in the room begin to act violently towards one another. Her slow realization that she is an Omega puts her in harms way.
This was a great first start to what appears to be a novella serial. The story is finishes on an open-ended note and continues in Alpha: Masquerade.
The setting of this world is rather different from other Omegaverse stories I have read as it still appears to be contemporary and modern. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
4 STARS
Omega Taken is an intense quick read that introduces you into the world of Alpha’s. This Omegaverse plot/trope
/themed story focuses on a young reporter named Leigh who has “presented” in a room crowded with alpha politicians and news reporters. Poor Leigh does not understand what has happened to her nor can she figure out why all the Alpha males in the room begin to act violently towards one another. Her slow realization that she is an Omega puts her in harms way.
This was a great first start to what appears to be a novella serial. The story is finishes on an open-ended note and continues in Alpha: Masquerade.
The setting of this world is rather different from other Omegaverse stories I have read as it still appears to be contemporary and modern. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
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