The Alpha's Heart

Lost Omegas #5

by Claire Cullen

When Fenrir's Warriors bring James a wolf found running half-naked through the forest in the middle of winter, it doesn't take long to work out they're dealing with an Omega. Days away from leading an attack on the heart of Eagle Creek, James' first instinct is to get Luke somewhere safe and deal with the rest later. Until he works out Luke is a gift for Jeremy, son of Eagle Creek's Alpha. And suddenly Luke becomes a potential solution to his problem.

Luke has waited all his life to be given to an Alpha and finally fulfill his purpose. But Jeremy is cruel, with harsh hands and a touch that makes his skin crawl. Running away in the hopes of finding his brother, Adam, he's captured by Fenrir's Warriors and brought to their Alpha leader, James. This Alpha is different. He actually looks at Luke, talks to him, treats him like a person. But just when Luke is beginning to change his mind about Alphas, James hands him back to Jeremy and Luke pays the price for running away.

When James and Luke are finally reunited, can James heal things between them and regain Luke's trust? And when Luke finds himself drawn closer to James, can he let go of the past and open up his heart to the love of an Alpha?

The Alpha's Heart is a 43,000 word paranormal romance with a happy ending and no major cliffhangers. It contains some scenes, language, and themes not suitable for readers under the age of eighteen. It contains mpreg. It is the fifth book of the Lost Omegas series and is best enjoyed as part of the series.

Genres: M M Romance, Shapeshifters, Romance, Paranormal, Omegaverse, Abuse, Werewolves

166 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 15, 2017

About the author

Claire Cullen is an author and aspiring baker. Since she was a toddler, she has loved making up stories. Getting them down on paper proved a challenge in the early years when her preferred medium was finger puppets. She moved on to pen and paper, and later to keyboards, and hasn't looked back since, except for occasional bouts of nostalgia.

Reviews

[J1B · Rating 2 out of 5]

For a slightly fluffy alpha/omega shifter hurt-comfort romance, I feel this series has delivered well within expectations. I've enjoyed the previous books and have stayed along for the ride to see where the wider arc is headed, but unfortunately this one takes a right turn into unbelievable-ville. The plot felt like the previous books recycled into something that completely strains credulity, and the main character was easily the most poorly-written out of all the omegas we've met so far.

The first issue I have is this idea that the omegas have been apparently extinct for 60 years, and yet the list of people who know this to be false just keeps getting bigger. Not only do we have multiple omegas who are 20+ years old, but there's an entire black market specializing in omega trafficking. The author introduced the concept of a "pack council sanctioned police force;" are you telling me that nobody ever came across any omegas even through that? The mystique of an "omega resurgence" worked in the first book, but it's getting harder and harder to believe with each successive one.

Here's a problem specific to this book: James cannot initially stake a claim for leadership of the Eagle-creek pack against Jeremy, and yet we're only one or two generations removed from Jeremy's family leading a coup against James' for that same control. James actually dissuades himself from mentioning this because no one would remember. Really? It was at most 50 years ago, does nobody record any history in this society?

Here's another:

Why? Why was he torturing him?” Arnold interrupted.
“He wanted to know about the FW. Who they were, where they were. We knew Luke didn’t know, he was innocent, just caught up in everything.”
“You knew that for certain?” Arnold asked, his sharp eyes watching them.
“Not absolutely but it would have been very unlikely. Jeremy did it because he could, not because it would be useful.”

If Jeremy is indeed as sadistic as the final sentence suggests, why didn't Etta mention this in literally the thing she said immediately before this? "Jeremy wanted evidence" ... "Jeremy actually loves torture" Arnold would be correct to doubt her story based on this inconsistent testimony.

But really, the worst part of this book comes from the dynamics of James and Luke's relationship. Luke is essentially a child. He has been indoctrinated into a cult-like dogmatic belief system regarding submissive omegas and dominate alphas, has been isolated from any outside interference for his entire childhood, and is in no way ready to consent to a sexual relationship literally two weeks after being liberated. James should know this, and there's actually some indication that he is aware of this and exploits Luke anyway.
Consider:

“I can show you pleasure like you’ve never dreamed of.”
That gave Luke pause and James prodded a little further. “You know, mating and sex, it feels really good. Better even than berry crumble.”

This isn't a flirtation. James is actually luring a mental child into sex through comparisons to the child's favorite desserts. I'm not really a huge SJW and this is creepy and abusive even to me, to the point where I felt uncomfortable any time they were together.

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5*
i LOVED IT <3

[Beth doesn't write enough reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok, this will be the third time I’ve tried to write this freaking review that GoodReads keeps screwing up with glitches! I wonder if all 3 will show up somehow.

So, this is a sweet yet tragic story about Luke, the younger brother of Adam who we met in The Alpha's Choice. Luke was raised by Tobias in a small room, half starved and abused regularly. His only knowledge of the world is that as an Omega he will be given to an Alpha and he must be obedient. My heart hurt for him.

James is an Alpha, leader of Fenrir’s Warriors and fighting to become Alpha of Eagle Creak, his heritage.

Their story and how they came together is both heartbreaking and sweet.

However, I’m very irritated with the lack of transitions. Seriously, I’m happily reading about Luke & James and the very next paragraph I’m with a different couple at another pack.

Here is an example;

He cupped Luke’s cheek, leaning in to press a kiss to his lips. “This is an amazing, wonderful thing. I have never been so happy or so proud.” The smile finally broke through Luke’s doubts, his eyes bright with happiness.

An escort of Fenrir's Warriors accompanied Matt and Zack on their visit to Zack's Pack. They brought the children, Oliver cradled in Matt's arms while Zack wrangled an excitable Rosie.

I love that characters from the previous books all make appearances and are still involved in the ongoing storyline but it’s very irritating how they are just SHOVED in.

So, I am cutting my rating from a 4+ that I give stories I shed tears over down to 3.

[Lasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

While I'll loved seeing all the characters from the other books, I couldn't warm up to James and Luke was a little too submissive for me. I'm hoping Ms. Cullen will finish up Ben's story arc in the next book. The whole Council being weak and ineffective is getting old, but loved seeing Sebastian and Robert again. They are my favorite couple of this series.

[Dena · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting storyline but I didn't feel an emotional connection between the two mc's and boy was that omega put through the ringer!

[Becky Condit · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was beginning to think James was not going to get his HEA, but along comes Adam’s brother Luke. I’ve loved this series from the first book and particularly liked the duo MCs featured in this book. We get to round out Matt and Zack’s story, including their growing family, but then we get James and Luke’s story. This may be a never-ending series with yet another territory having problems. I was horrified to see Frank’s terrible family rise up yet again with Jeremy’s birthday present. I’ve begun to tire a little bit of the infighting so if there is to be a sixth book I may wait a bit before picking it up.

[Badh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good continuation

Good continuation of the series. Wanted to smack James though. Jerk. I get why he did it, but still, jerk.

[Fani *loves angst* · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, but I expected more from James' book

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This installment again jumps between the established couples omegas POVs in between Luke + James' story, which I looked forward to.

mpreg

[Rachel Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m really in love with this series. It’s heartbreaking, beautiful, hopeful, and all the stories weave together to create a wonderful series. I especially love how a couple books, including this one, feature both a new couple and revisit a previous couple now that some time has passed.

In this story, the returning couple is Matt and Zack, who we met back in the 3rd book. Some time has passed since their book, and they are still very happy together. Even better, our new couple is James (who we met in the last book and is related to Ro from the series) and Luke, who is Adam’s brother! They finally find each other again. See how it’s all connected? Read this series in order, folks! :P

My heart absolutely broke for Luke, with how he was treated by Tobias to Jeremy, how he didn’t know happiness or even what a bath was, to how afraid he was of James. (There is some violence and torture in here, be warned if that’s a trigger for you.) But James. Oh my heart eyes, James. Perfect alpha for Luke, he was patient, kind, caring, and sweet. They were just lovely, had great chemistry, and a wonderful HEA.

I’m still hoping for more of Byron and Jay from the last book, I want full details on their first heat spent together, to know how Jay has recovered and grown since his rescue, you name it.

This author is great at delivering on one of my favorite tropes - hurt omegas and the caring, strong alpha that saves them. I just adore this series and recommend it to all fans of werewolf mpreg readers.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Zee · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~~ 4.5 Stars ~~~

I really liked this book especially because it mentioned Zack being asked to come back to his old pack but it actually did show the part where he does go back but the reason I'm giving it the rating I am is because it only said Luke was pregnant but it didn't do gender, names, or the birth so I'm not very happy about that part but I thought it was really cute when Adam and Luke were reunited

I can't think of any characters that could be another book but I hope it not Andrew and Etta because 1, I would rather read about a guy and 2, because there really isn't much of a story there it was basically all in this book if u actually think about it

I think if there is another book to this series it should be about Sam from Glenoak or Graham from FW/Eagle Creek

[Sue Milkovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

BEAUTIFUL STRONG LOVE STORIES

Everyone needs a hero. Luke was exactly what James needed. Technically, he rescued Luke from the elements. But they saved each other from lives searching for that one true mate. This series is so MAGNIFICENT because it is based on love, friendship and loyalty to pack. All the characters are well developed and have a great story surrounding them. I thought that this story was a FANTASTIC addition to an already OUTSTANDING series. I love how each book is a continuation and keeps moving forward without leaving anyone behind. So, looking forward to the next addition. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS BEAUTIFUL, EXCITING SERIES!!!!!

[Deeze · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one more than I expected. James should of been better prepared to keep Luke safe but I can understand his reasoning. Not that I agree with it.

Luke was lovely, I hope to see him be a daddy.

The climax was interesting and I enjoyed the play out. If I had one niggle it was the way the council let things drop They were all threatened, they saw 2 members were in on it, yet they let them all walk away. What the hell is the point of that council??

I also found the healing factor a little flimsy. But other than that this is a goos series with more focus on story than sex.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read each book of the Lost Omegas and loved the storyline. My only issue is that I wouldn’t exactly call them romance books. Yes the MC’s eventually get together but their alone times appear more to get the job done, mainly mating and bonding. Where were the sparks, the sensuality the connections?. I kept hoping I would feel more of a connection to each couple as the series progressed. Had the storyline not kept me engaged I probably wouldn’t have read them all. I do hope this isn’t the theme with each of Claire’s books that she has written. I’m loath to find out.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC from author and I thank her for letting me read this wonderful story early. A strong story with great characters and finally, FINALLY one of the nasty packs get their comeuppance. There's a lot of action in this book, even more so than the previous ones and I think it may be my favorite. This could be read as a standalone but the other books are great and I'm looking forward to the next one

This is a great read for anyone who loves shifters, action, and romance.

[John-Torleif Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

This is probably my favorite in this series, so far. I loved that the FW has been able to achieve their goal of restoring the correct leadership and order in much of the area these books are set in. I also loved that the usurpers who built their power on cruelty have begun to reap their own karma. And the best part is that the FW did it all by protecting the Pack Council and thereby gaining even more allies.

[lex ❄ · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid 3 stars, this was entertaining enough, although it didn't go further but this was never intended to be so it delivered the premise.

I really liked the storyline of Luke finding his brother and getting away from abusers. I wish his character had more depth though. James was fine.

Nothing else to add, this was a typical Claire Cullen plot and it was what I expected which means it is alright.

[Keith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intense Action

This book starts with aggressive action which carries long throughout the story. Yes there is the new slow growth romance for Luke and James but most of the story is centered around the tensions between packs and the inevitable solution. It does end with a promise for the future but also hints at danger to come.

[MG Lahey · Rating 5 out of 5]

From lost to found.

With what Luke was raised to believe, he'd be owned and controlled by the Alpha in his life. What he learned and what was real life played out wonderfully. James is an Alpha of of worth who wants his birthright.
The whole story was well paced and riveting. I love the characters and the series progression.

[Pamela Cunningham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the: Lost Omega Book's

This was another great read from this Author these book's are becoming one of my favorite series . Every couple is different with their own unique problems to overcome but there is plenty of love and patience in these couples . I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series .

[Karyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love hurt comfort books and this one did it for me. James, who in previous books came off as badass totally has this soft gentle comforting vibe in dealing with Luke an abused omega. Great easy book to read when you want to escape reality for a little while.

[Joscelyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series💖

Luke and James were almost over before they began because of James' actions. He had to really work to regain Luke's trust and Luke had to learn to go after what he wanted.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot of action in this book The Alpha's Heart is a little more intense than the other books. This series is so good. All the characters are well developed and have a great story surrounding them.

[Raymond Neil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fifth book is delightful

I am so thrilled to have finished this book quickly because it set me up to read the final book in the series. It was so well written and more great characters to care about.

[Nuria El Trastero Del Multiverso · Rating 3 out of 5]

NOTA: 2'5 ⭐

Estaba un poco atascada, q no sabía qué leer... y esta serie con libros cortitos de Omegaverse, me ha enganchado mucho... son historias muy simples que tampoco me han dicho mucho... de ahí el aprobado raspadito 😅

[Ronnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spellbinding

The book gives Adam some course and happiness that he was missing. Never underestimate the power of an Omgeas love

[JB · Rating 1 out of 5]

No chemistry between the MCs i am afraid. Struggled to finish.

[Dominique Bast · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omegas

I like all your stories love the balance i think its amazing journey was heart wrenching, yet brilliant. A must read series.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shifter MPREG m/m romance

3 stars

The saga continues. This book ties up more loose ends and progresses the story.

It was a good book but not exceptional.

[Li Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Really great story to what I hope is a great series. Loved this shifter idea too. I love omegaverse very much and this is highly recommended