Division Chief Seraphine Thomas got the greatest gift and kicked in the teeth all by the same person she never thought she’d see again. This time she might truly hit her limit of what she can handle, but unlike for most of her life, she isn’t alone to weather the raging storm. Plus, it’s amusing when she’s not the only one freaking out and others lose it as well.
It brings up old issues that put Sera on the outs with her wolf and not the time for things to spin out in her territory… Even if she’s not allowed to handle all of Chicago’s problems. But Sera likes a challenge, and finding a way around the red tape to help is what she’s best at.
She’s pushed back and from several sides, and given she’s always getting crap about starting trouble, maybe it’s time she actually start some trouble to cut off the problems she foresees coming and save lives. And if she gets a chance to enjoy it and spank some people, all the better, right?
Seraphine Thomas is a crime series filled with Chicago attitude and a strong heroine that pushes what most would think a female lead capable of, along with the heat being involved with several men brings while trying to figure out what she wants.
Erin is a born Chicagoan who decided to state hop a bit, given she works from home. She currently resides in Georgia with her pup, Lord Vader Flynn. With an eclectic and addictive personality, there isn’t much that doesn’t interest her or she won’t pour herself into if it catches her fancy. She has always been interested in the darker aspects of life and mythologies—especially vampires, shifters, the occult, and anything paranormal.
To date, she has published more paranormal books than she can keep up with the characters for, in different genres with dedicated readers who await each release to her numerous series under any of the three Flynn names she writes.
I have really enjoyed this series up to this book. I read this days ago and still irritated with the content. Two complaints about this book. 1.) This one felt rushed, more of a "wrap up" feel. Topher, gangs and cartels all felt as an afterthought to my second complaint. 2.) My second turn off is the authors interjection of her political issues. Instead of letting us enjoy this characters growth and challenges, I felt sidetracked by the authors current event triggers (Fox news, politicians, cake baker scandal, LGBTQ issues, border walls, bash conservatives, etc). These mentions felt out of context, disruptive to the story line and a way for the author to interject her political bias. I'm on-board with most but not all of the views expressed but when reading a fantasy fiction- PLEASE leave it out. I don't want to read a book where Liberals/Democrats are bashed repeated either. The whole series has been about the characters fighting for equality and fairness and this author has always done a really good job of leading us through the issues with this fictional character and her motivations without seeming to interject her own political beliefs. Not sure what happened with this one but hope the next is better as I really like the characters and how they work through their challenges.
This last book was more on politics then story line...( sry I know that it's part of the story but...) Loved the part where she was doing her job as FBI but most of the story was sex.and..politics.. very little story ...and I like story kinda like steamy stories . when 3/4 of the book is sex and 1/10 story and the rest a commentary in present day politics ..i kinda was disappointed.. love the fast action fbi stuff..but rest was kinda bah ..even the steamy was bah...
I generally don't rate when I DNF a book because I figure it's unfair to rate something I didn't finish reading. In this case, buyer beware.
Despite generally agreeing with much of the political commentary littering this book, I think it was in poor taste to basically saturate the book with it. I read to help stop myself from doom-scrolling and this did. Not. Enhance my fucking calm, okay?
I would have been glad to read that in a blog or other publication if the author were so inclined. Until I got to the whole music video scene. I WTF'd. Loudly. At length. What in the actual cultural appropriation fuckery was happening. I am not a POC, so it's not my place to decide if this is offensive or not. I can tell you I was so horrified and uncomfortable that I stopped reading this book and this author. Permanently. I will -never- pick up another book from her again.
I left a highlight with a snippet of the icky material. Gross.
Thank you for knocking it out of the park again. This is one of my favorite series. I'm sorry the girls joined my club but thank you for bringing it to the forefront and talking about it.
I absolutely love Sera and the team but this book got crazy political. Her last few books had moments or comments of political views but it blended well with the story. This book had entire scenes dedicated to debates and took away from the story.
I love this writer, and don't mind a few jabs here and there. However this one had way more plus jabs to certain news station. I avoid all social media any more with all the hate, so this book took longer tO get thru because the storYline was still awesome. I still love this author and think the characters keep getting better, I just think politics should stay out of any fantasy/parAnormal serIes. I dislike all news stations to be honest, as a single mom of 4 I get depressed enough. The sadness in so many news stories breaks my heart, but they all give half truths as does all politicians anymore.
The series started very promising but the author was completely unable to keep her own political views from spoiling it. According to her in this latest book if any Republican were elected President the laws of the US would change so shifters could be hunted like animals. She also makes a statement that Fox News is the only news station that didn't give them fair coverage and lied about them. Seriously, please. I would bet good money she's never listened to a fox news program, just heard lies about them.
Disappointed, seriously disappointed. I've enjoyed this series but I've noticed that the last book and this one incorporated A LOT of content that was disappointing. It wasn't just mentioned, BUT really trying to push it!! Not the reason I started this series, I wanted to step away from world garbage and find books that were enjoyable and give a break from all of that, but this did not. Glad that I was able to read this on KU and I did not have to pay for it.
Review of the Seraphine Thomas Series by Erin Flynn (Books 1–18) ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Overall)
I’ve officially read all 18 books in the Seraphine Thomas series - yes, all of them - so you don’t have to (but maybe you’ll want to). I’m a longtime fan of Erin Flynn’s writing. Her stories are creative, emotionally rich, and often addictive. There's always at least one character per series you end up rooting for, and her talent for immersive world-building is undeniable.
That said, my experience with this series has been a bit of a rollercoaster. Let’s break it down honestly - but respectfully.
🔥 The Positives: Compelling Worldbuilding: The supernatural FBI + polyamorous twist is unlike most in the genre. Think Forever meets Castle with a Vampire Diaries vibe.
Long-Term Character Arcs: The series spans a wide timeline and shows dedication to character growth (even if not always in a direction I enjoyed).
Addictive Early Books: Books 1–7 had me hooked. They had humor, high-stakes emotional drama, and solid pacing. These earned a solid 3.5/5 stars from me.
😬 Mixed Feelings & Constructive Critique: 1. Tone and Authorial Voice While the author’s writing style is generally engaging, I personally found some of the commentary in the closing author’s notes and certain narrative choices to feel more personal or opinionated than expected in fiction. I completely understand the need to address issues like piracy, but I believe there might be more neutral or inclusive ways to communicate those messages.
2. Relationship Complexity vs. Clarity This isn’t a typical “Why Choose” or Reverse Harem setup. It’s a deeply layered polyandrous dynamic - messy, intricate, and sometimes emotionally chaotic. If you're looking for straightforward bonding arcs, be prepared: the relationship development gets incredibly convoluted. Personally, I found the shifting dynamics between mates, sirened partners, consorts, and friends-with-benefits confusing as the series progressed. A glossary or relationship map might be helpful in future installments.
3. Character Fatigue By Book 18, I found myself struggling to connect with many of the characters - especially the main character, Sera. She starts off as a resilient, sharp, and likable FMC, but over time, her decisions and relationship management felt inconsistent or frustrating. The push-pull dynamic in her personal life, paired with very little progress in her supernatural education even 18 books in, made it difficult for me to continue rooting for her.
Many love interests were introduced with big emotional weight, only to fade into the background or disappear altogether. Some characters who were well-developed and emotionally resonant (like Dain or Tristan) seemed to get less closure or fair treatment than others who felt more peripheral. In contrast, some relationships dragged on without significant development or payoff.
4. Pacing & Structure Books 8–18 dropped to a 2.5/5 rating for me. The pacing slowed, and more focus seemed to shift toward commentary and expanding the cast rather than continuing the central storyline. Political and social themes started to feel more prominent than the core plot, which I found distracting from the fictional narrative I was invested in.
🧍♀️Sera Thomas (FMC): Early-series Sera was fantastic: witty, brave, emotionally complex, and vulnerable. I loved her journey through the early books. But as the series continued, her indecision, emotional volatility, and seeming lack of introspection made it harder to sympathize with her. She often reacted rather than reflected, and by Book 18, she felt less like a hero and more like a character stuck in loops.
💔 On the MMCs: Too many to list fully, but here are some key points:
Tristan: Felt unfairly treated by both the narrative and Sera. He brought a lot to the story emotionally and deserved more.
Dain: A standout for me. Loyal, strong, and emotionally available. Frustratingly underappreciated by Sera.
Brian, Riley, Hagan/Reagan: Relationships with these characters didn’t feel satisfying or necessary by the end.
Noah, Axel, Eugene, Jason: Struggled to leave a lasting impression. Some started strong but faded, others never quite clicked.
Carter: Felt like his storyline was mishandled. A simple conversation would have solved a lot.
Ari, Virgil, Lucca, etc.: Either forgotten or sidelined. At 18 books in, I’m struggling to remember who’s still important and who isn’t.
⚠️ Final Thoughts: This series started with a bang but has become increasingly complex - sometimes at the expense of clarity, pacing, and emotional payoff. I’d still recommend it to readers who enjoy dark paranormal romance with poly themes, complex emotions, and an ongoing world that spans dozens of characters.
But for me, the series may have reached its natural peak. I’m unsure whether I’ll continue with future books unless there’s a notable shift in focus and tone. Still, Erin Flynn’s creativity and dedication to her characters is commendable, and I hope future installments bring some much-needed resolution to long-standing arcs.
TL;DR: Started strong with a bold and complex heroine in a unique supernatural world. Became bloated with characters and unresolved plot threads. A frustrating but ambitious series worth reading - if you have patience.
I got to Book 11. Half way I just could not fight through anymore. I read to escape reality. The story line was great.. and hell I agreed with most of the political stuff.. just, again, the series started to drown in it.
I was dreading getting this far into the series, but that took on a whole new reason.
I was dreading getting this far into the series because I didn’t want it to end and have to wait for another book to be released. I waited to start this series, because I love the author after reading another of her series that was released later than this one. I got to book 11 within a week of starting it because I couldn’t put them down. It was intense but I enjoyed the story and characters so much... until recently in the series. Now I dread getting this far in the series because I was massively upset and disappointed in the most recent books, especially book 11. To the point I’m not even trying for book 12. Most of you know the plot and story line and all about Sera, her siren and wolf side, her men, friends and job of your this far in because this book 11, so I won’t go over the overall story plot. I will say this though... book 10 started going wrong in some places and Seraphines character started changing a lot on her core values and personality and this book wayyy more so. The story became unoriginal and ill as well. - Sera was a fierce female lead, who even when she struggled she fought back for herself and those she cared about (and I don’t mean she didn’t have break Downs or doubts because I think the fact she did makes her even stronger); she may have been a woman who processed things differently but she stood up, could say no, let people (especially men in her life) know when they pushed too much or crossed lines or made her uncomfortable. In this book, she let the men lead her around, make all her choices for her, have up a huge part of her individual strength and personality. It seemed like EVERY Mae who pushed for sex or a place in her life just got it. No boundaries were made and if they were they were crossed and ignored with no qualm. Special night with fairy husband finally happening? Ah no worries he can pump me out to another fairy and watch and let some mystery person watch even after all the trauma she has been through and new fairy decodes he loves her and should be one of her men? Sure no problem. Suddenly he’s part of everything. Lovers family and friends cross lines, invite themselves to everything, disrespect her? No worry. (okay yes jimmy got some push back but So many didn’t, not even for sharing pack land address etc) she keeps saying she wants fun on the side and only her main men but then every one else says “no I’m one of the main ones now and this is live so deal with it” and it’s just accepted and completely messes with everything sera declares she wants and feels and needs and not in a way that feelings grew on both sides. Honestly I don’t even know how to explain this right but I was SO off put by so much of it. It felt dirty and forceful and sometimes abusive, to the point where I would normal ima June the MFC in my head as myself (since it’s her POV) and it made me uncomfortable and angry at all the characters even Sera herself and I couldn’t keep reading because I felt nasty. I also had to skip some scenes because it became too much- the sex scenes. Now I haven’t ever had an issue with the sexual part of books and I used to find the scenes in this series well written and super sexy. I’m not shy or inexperienced and these were often hot. But this book and some of the last... it was TOO MUCH. Very freaking chapter and moment it was just sex and even when it felt like sera’s characters was uncomfortable it was more and more. I don’t know how the the character and the story even come together anymore because there’s a lot of contradiction and a lot of line crossing and over the top reactions that don’t even feel “realistic” anymore and the scenes themselves lost ther lackluster because they are repetitive and exhausting. I had to set down my book on several occasions while reading and sit there thinking out a different scenario or reaction to the story in or set to calm down or figure out why I was getting so upset - in my head the sera I’ve become to know and love would have said and done “this” (as I imagine it out) and not anywhere close to what was written. I even cried once while trying to figure out why I was upset and realizing what was written hurt me from the way the characters handled it or didn’t fight for herself, and it wasn’t the same story or character that I loved. Like a different crappy author took over to ghost write and was nothing like the real author. I can’t even read book 12 now. Sorry, but I miss the heart of the series, the sexy men, the reality of relationships going wrong but a women standing up for what she wants or lashing out when she’s been hurt so badly, of the men as individuals instead of just constant group fucking, and I’m even having a hard time coming to grins with some of the changes of the men and how she responded to them.
3.5 Stand In Judgement Of Me, And Watch Me Not Care Stars
Provoked Wolf is the eleventh book in the Seraphine Thomas series by Erin R. Flynn.
Topher was a big surprise. That her very horrible and disgusting DNA givers would attempt to even be in her presence shows a complete lack of intelligence. I feel bad for both Sera and her brothers for all they individually faced. But to have this new addition to their dynamic was ingenious, because the bunnies are almost all grown up enough to have left an absence in the story.
I'm honestly getting tired of the amount of sex in these books, which makes this series similar to some other series I have read in the past. Once the sexual overtones drowns out any true enjoyment of the plot, or plot progression it's difficult to stay determined in finishing an overall arc or series. I've come to enjoy or appreciate the myriad of relationships she has. While there is a core group of forever mates, there is a cycling rotation of new men either temporary or more permanent casual buddies. It's kept this aspect of the story interesting to this point, but it's honestly overwhelming how every book is so prevalent with ridiculous sexual positions and scenes. Brava! to the author, because she is very creative.
I liked that this book allowed more time for Sera to settle into herself after all she has recently faced. It's not even been a year since she's became Alpha, and she has already survived so many attacks on herself and those she protects. While there was at least one major moment of turmoil, it wasn't to the same level of the previous books, as to overwhelm both the character and the reader.
Although, overall I think the many intersecting intricacies of progression in the plot are becoming far too complicated and convoluted at this point. I can't even remember all that Sera has already conquered, the battles she is still riding through, and the potential maybe future manipulations she's guessed at. I think the combination of both overwhelming sexualization and the amount of potential for hard times (current or future), without much forward momentum or real time progression is overloading the script. This is a ridiculous amount to have accomplished and survived in such a short time, and that the author has somehow concocted this persona that while having some serious breakdowns, isn't rocking in the corner into infinity, isn't believable at this point.
Sera has barely made it through her first year as a wolf, onto the next benchmark of one year as Alpha, and she has survived so many attempts on her life and sanity, and accomplished so much for her community and so many others, that I seriously do not believe the authors timeline at this point.
I'm honestly scared what other horrible things could happen if this series makes into a future that involves a different US president, likes Sera and her many lovers are worried for....
My absolute favorite portion of this entire book was anything at all having to do with the videos Sera made. They were hilarious, and I enjoyed the concepts and meanings behind them.
Another good read but same issues as my other review
This was another good read from the author on this series. My complaint is the same as my previous review(s) for this series. Not sure it's the author since I've not read her other books. The same issue with wrong word used, incomplete sentences due to missed words and other simple editing that could have been resolved if someone edits the books and looks for those things, reread the book then ensure all corrections were made.
The plots were good, the storyline captivating, and the characters still likeable. I did notice through each book that when the author gets to the end, instead of a story, it reads more like a quick narrative.
Overall, I'm looking forward to the next installment. And again, I appreciate all the hard work and time authors put into creating a world where someone can escape into.
I read from a Kindle After reading about 31 pages of a chapter devoted to sex I skipped thru the last 15 pages of the chapter. I don't mind the " after dark " part of the book because I can just skip it. I think the 51 pages of that chapter could have gone into " after dark" for those who enjoy the reading. As a side note I find that Sara's passivity (in this book) is in conflict with the author's stand on sexual assault (Erin are you commencing that can't be between boyfriend and girlfriend?). There are parts of this book that I found interesting or enjoyable. Please note that I have no problem with appropriate interspersed sex (she is a I did question
I seriously love reading this series. I genuinely could not say a bad word about it. Erin brings up so many current issues. Stating what is and is not acceptable with the reasons behind it. I love the characters and Sera is my actual hero. I know shes a fictional character but I could not thank Erin enough with what she writes. This book brings up a lot about sexual assault and how it is brushed off in our society if you don't enjoy the book for whatever insane reason go to the end and read Erin's writers note if nothing else this will educate you.
Disappointing n some ways; in other ways this book is another in the excellent saga of Sera.
I gave this book 3 stars because of the overtly leftiist political commentary. While the author's political views have been obvious in the previous 10 books of the series, this is the first in which she has overtly demonized those with views which differ from her own. While that is certainly her right, it detracts greatly from the entertainment value of the book.
Otherwise, the book, as usual, was a highly entertaining read, even for an old Republican.
Like furreal 🤭 Sera woukd be smiling at that one too (me? Chuckilin)
This one leaves ya feeling marvelous! And we also get Erin on a soapbox at the end too!
I had no idea that if the person i am sexually involved with, grabs me sexually, and it is unwanted, it is sexual assault. I should have. Yet i grew up in the Club too...
We should be spreading this word. Thank you Erin R. Flynn for doing that with this book- may it go viral...
This had me laughing, then testy eyed. A true roller coaster. The relationships are building with some, and (sniff, sniff) ending for others. Sera is shaping up the world for change. Lots of political overtones reflecting current political issues, but while fairly one-sided, is meant to be thought provoking though nothing that has been said on any number of news shows. Looking forward to seeing Sera shape up her guys and Topher grow!
I wish it were true...someone with power and the will to do good and getting s#$t cleaned up. And...Too many are stuck in their bias and can't see or allow other potential. (Had to laugh at the wall reference ;-) ). Also loved the recognition that all can be biased and discriminatory. If you can't get over yourself don't read this series. I am not a fan of Brian. I was happy she let go of Jas cause that was never going to be 'good'. Still curious about Ari.
I'm hoping that this review will get posted. I found myself cut off cuz I like to use memes to get points across. So be careful about how you post (memes Really?). This is the first series that I've read by Erin and I FREAKING Loved it! I'm looking forward to the next book, Please write more soon. In the meantime, I'll check out any of your other stories. Thanks again Erin, I'm definitely a FAN!
This was another good read and an enjoyable time but I think I’ll stop the series here. I read paranormal and fantasy books like this to get away from the chaos of real life, I don’t really want to read about politics in my books, but that’s the authors prerogative. So I enjoyed the series so far but this will be my last book in the series for me.
I literally devoured this book. What a whammy at the beginning with Gopher but loved Sera being able to climb the ladder back to herself and more. Such a great story with real world issues worked into in a fun way that allows the reader to relate to things. Just cannot get enough of Sera and her men and her friends and family.
Sera just keeps getting better and better ... She goes through He*ll but comes out swinging on the other side. And as someone who has been through situations of my own where I feel a lot of empathy for what she's going through ( 15 - passenger van rollover and TBI, frequent bouts of depression, chronic migraines, abusive ex, single mother)
Really enjoyed the story line and the previous books as well, if I'd had as many problems as the main character I think I would be in a padded room. However the author has made the series well worth reading, I gave 4 stars only because this book gave the feeling of being drawn out.
I've read all 11 books in a few days.... I'm sleep deprived and my house looks like a bomb has hit it but they were so worth it. I need the next installment asap. Storyline was fantastic, there was a lot of mistakes so better proof reading needed and sometimes i skimmed the sex scenes as they were too much, but I adore this series
I have enjoyed this book and all the other books in the series previous to this. The books are well researched and well written. My only slight criticism of the books ,would be a little bit too much in-depth sex scenes, I like sex scenes but sometimes it can go on for just too long and possibly not necessary.
I choose the rating cause I find it worth it. Seraphine has really grown over these eleven books and I can't wait for more. Would write more but don't want to leave any spoilers. 😍😆
I can always count on this series for a good read. I'm at the point where I buy them before even reading the summary. Thrilled to know there is no end to this series planned.
Sera is doing more good all around and seems to be healing and getting her confidence back with all the love the guys are showing her. Absolutely loved and can't wait for the next book in the series.
This is a fantastic series and the books are all as good as the first one. Seraphine is a strong women with vulnerability that draws you to her. She is as tough as she needs to be but strong as she needs to be.