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Even in the supernatural world, Darcy and Ceridwen Collins are considered quite extraordinary. They’re the first females born into the Collins clan in nearly 1,000 years. They’re not only twins (an extreme rarity in the werewolf world) but twins that get along. Not to mention the whole Alpha/Omega dynamic.

Darcy, as the firstborn and alpha, is the heir of the Collins pack. Destined to take over as pack leader when their father steps down. However, Darcy wants nothing to do with the infamous Collins pack and has been trying to convince her father to name her sister as the proper heir for years. Alistair won’t hear of such a thing as an omega becoming pack leader would surely end in anarchy.

Things start looking up when a beautiful druid doctor comes into the twins’ lives, befriending Ceridwen and enthralling Darcy instantly. Making Alistair and the rest of the pack think that Darcy has finally decided to accept her destiny. Of course, not everyone wants Darcy to take over as pack leader and a sinister plan begins to develop in an effort to bring down the Collins reign once and for all.

469 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2019

73 people are currently reading
217 people want to read

About the author

Kate Hershberger

8 books32 followers
Kate Hershberger was born in South Bend, Indiana and later raised in the foothills of North Carolina where she lives with her wife and their menagerie of rescue pets. She dreams of writing full time in New England, living as a modern day Jessica Fletcher (minus the murders).


*This author is part of iReadIndies, a collective of self-published independent authors of women loving women (WLW) literature. Please visit our website at iReadIndies.com for more information and to find links to the books published by our authors.

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5 stars
74 (37%)
4 stars
80 (40%)
3 stars
31 (15%)
2 stars
8 (4%)
1 star
5 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for MaxDisaster.
677 reviews88 followers
September 15, 2025
4,5 stars
This was fun. Could do with a bit more polishing, sometimes it read a bit like an unedited fanfiction, but the story was solid, I liked all MCs and generally had fun reading it.
I also really liked the cover art by Rafi de Sousa. A good combination of comic-style and fantasy style. It made me want to read the book.

Edit August 2025: still fun, better than I remembered, actually
Profile Image for Arn.
400 reviews117 followers
May 25, 2019
DNF @60%. A textbook example of why I dislike mate based storylines. There's no build up, no emotional connection. The ladies instantly like each other because they're both hot and magically linked mates. Meh... Similar problems permeate the rest of the book - the characters are one dimensional, the baddies generic, there are very little if any original ideas in this book. This is a basic shifter book you've read many times before. If you're looking for more of the same, it might be right up your alley. As for me, I can't force myself to finish this. The sex scenes are fade to black too. I didn't even get some of that hot shifter shagging.

There is not a single thing I liked about this book beyond the cover.
Profile Image for XR.
1,980 reviews106 followers
June 17, 2019
I don't get why anyone would give this book a 1 star rating. The relationship was to be expected when it comes to 'mates' but the storyline itself was different. I've never read a book or watched a movie where there are co-alphas for a pack before. Darcy and Ceri's relationship is so cool that you really don't want one to be above the other, they're equal for their own unique and separate selves and their bond just makes them awesome together. Although the focus is mainly on Darcy's relationship to Tamsin, I liked that the author thought to include someone special for Ceri too.

I can't wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rutuja Ramteke.
1,987 reviews96 followers
September 4, 2020

The Calling is the first book in the Collins trilogy, fantasy is now in my blood, I feel because I am so much addicted towards fantasy, that it makes me go crazy when I start reading it and I enjoy it so much. Reading this fantasy novel is again one of my best decisions as a reader. The storyline revolves around Darcy and Ceridwen Collins who are considered quite extraordinary. They’re the first females born into the Collins clan in nearly 1,000 years. They’re not only twins (an extreme rarity in the werewolf world) but twins that get along. Not to mention the whole Alpha/Omega dynamic. Darcy, as the first born and alpha, is the heir of the Collins pack. Destined to take over as pack leader when their father steps down. However, Darcy wants nothing to do with the infamous Collins pack and has been trying to convince her father to name her sister as the proper heir for years.
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So Dracy, the main protagonist is supposed to lead the pack but things aren't so simple you know, the book takes on many turns and it's really twisted and amazingly adventures. Kate's writing is very lucid and descriptive at times, so I also got to learn about the intresting settings in the story.
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The dialogues and conversations will definitely keep the readers entertained and engaged throughout, the language is not difficult of course but it is twisted, like if you are a fantasy reader already then you would definitely enjoy it. Ceri is a great character too, the chemistry between Darcy and Tamsin started to develop towards the end of the book and which will definitely make the readers more curious about the second book in the series.
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It's very enjoyable, it's something new in the world of fantasy and werewolves, it's really vast and well written. I enjoyed it thoroughly. I will definitely recommend it to everyone, especially to people who enjoy fantasy books.
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Rating: 4🌟
Profile Image for Shiny  Jain.
319 reviews30 followers
August 30, 2020
"The Calling" is the Collins Trilogy book 1
This is really an interesting supernatural story. The story starts with two twins Darcy and Ceridwen Collins. Even in the supernatural world, Darcy and Ceridwen Collins are considered quite extraordinary. They’re the first females born into the Collins clan in nearly 1,000 years. They’re not only twins (an extreme rarity in the werewolf world) but twins that get along. Not to mention the whole Alpha/Omega dynamic. Darcy, as the first born and alpha, is the heir of the Collins pack. Destined to take over as pack leader when their father steps down. However, Darcy wants nothing to do with the infamous Collins pack and has been trying to convince her father to name her sister as the proper heir for years. Alistair won’t hear of such a thing as an omega becoming pack leader would surely end in anarchy.

✍️Things start looking up when a beautiful druid doctor comes into the twins’ lives, befriending Ceridwen and enthralling Darcy instantly. Making Alistair and the rest of the pack think that Darcy has finally decided to accept her destiny.

✍️I really liked the plot and imagination used by the author. The twist and turns are really interesting. The characters are strong and independent.
Profile Image for Carol Hutchinson.
1,124 reviews72 followers
July 18, 2019
This was an engaging and exciting supernatural read, and a good start to a very promising series.

Following werewolf sisters Darcy and Ceridwen, they challenge the stereotypes of their ancestors and follow their hearts. Darcy has fallen in love with a doctor when helping with an experiment, and Ceri is trying to prove she has what it takes to be as strong and powerful as her alpha sister.

The story was exciting, with an intricate plot and lots of action amongst the more romantic aspects of Darcy and Tamsin’s blossoming relationship. Their attraction to one another at first meeting was believable and very plausible. With supernatural beings it has to be remembered they do not fit the norms of us mere mortal humans, and that is captured so well in this story.

A big element was also on the focus of a strong family, and their relationships were all really well balanced and portrayed to drive the plot, and keep the reader intrigued.

I am very much looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for Darcy and Ceri, and look forward to reading more of this series. I would recommend giving this a go, especially if you are a lover of the supernatural.
Profile Image for Taz.
147 reviews
October 1, 2021
Two werewolves, twins, Alpha and Omega, Darcy and Ceridwen, both of whom have their doctorate (literature and science), are the main characters of the book. In addition, a werewolf pack, a druid, a vampire and a conspiracy. Nevertheless, it is a love story with entanglements, beautifully told, without going into the graphic. The scenes are hidden before it becomes too graphic, which, in my opinion, doesn't hurt the story. Partly tension because of the conspiracy, sometimes cheering along, how and when they finally find each other.
Profile Image for Kelsee.
140 reviews7 followers
November 23, 2020
This book was a really fun read. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and learning about the world they lived in. The world that's not so different from our own but werewolves, vampires and Fae live alongside blissfully unaware humans.

Darcy and Tamsin's relationship was a joy to watch bloom on the page. Usually, insta-love stories are rather boring for me, but the writing was so well done on this one. Despite the characters' instant attraction, they both take the time and learn about the other and it's so much fun to watch unfold. I absolutely loved Darcy's character the most who appeared rather dark and brooding, but really was such a kind and caring person. I loved that the twins were individuals and very distinctly different people, polar opposites who actually wonderfully complement each other. They're fantastic. I only wish we'd seen a little more of Ceri's character. She's there through the whole book, but it's very much felt like the Darcy and Tamsin show, which I did not mind, but from the book description I assumed it would be more about the sister's relationship.

This book had a couple of twists, some I saw coming, some I didn't. I really want to know more about the Fae and other supernatural entities in this world. This book kept my interest the whole way through and I'm so excited to dig into the sequel when I get my hands on it!

I received this book as a free digital copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

_______________________

Representation: lesbian
Content Warnings: language, homophobia, suicide (mentioned), sexual content, self-harm, violence
Profile Image for bunn3h.
79 reviews
May 30, 2019
I’ve had a few books recently that annoyed the hell out of me so I was happy that this one was able to break the meh streak. Nothing particularly new in the genre but I found it enjoyable especially the witty or flirtatious interactions between Darcy/Tamsin and Darcy/Mel.

Writing is not my forte but even I noticed a few mistakes here and there with double uses of a word in the same sentence and the perspective change for the “Boss” chapters was kind of weird to read.

Either way I enjoyed the book and I am definitely looking forward to more Tamsin and Darcy. I did not care much about Ceri so I hope she’s not the major perspective in the next book despite the synopsis mentioning a cure she’s working on. The way Darcy is portrayed makes me wish I had a Darcy of my own but Ceri felt kind of flat.
Profile Image for _sassy_39.
2,574 reviews156 followers
August 25, 2020
The Calling by the author Kate Hershberger is the first book in The Collins Trilogy. The plot is constructed in a supernatural world where Darcy and Ceridwen Collins are the twin werewolf sisters. Werewolf twins are rare and they could feel what their sibling is feeling.

Darcy was the first born and the alpha of the two girls will be the heir of the Collins pack. Darcy and Ceridwen's father is the current pack leader and he wanted his eldest daughter Darcy to be the next pack leader. But Darcy was least interested in the politics of werewolf culture as she can't trust everyone in the pack. Read the further story to know what happens next.

The story is written and narrated well. World building is amazing. Cover page of the book is apt and the title is simple. I am looking forward to read the sequel of this book.
195 reviews14 followers
August 22, 2020
Werewolf belongs to the supernatural world. The plot of the story is constructed in a supernatural world about the first attraction between a werewolf Darcy and Tamsin. The story is full on action packed and the cute relationship of Darcy and Tamsin will hook you to binge read it.

I am more interested in Darcy's story in the second part as compared to Cel. Her personality is different and attractive. Tamsin's personality is like it will make the other one go on their knees. Such a nice character development.

The story is enjoyable and I am definitely interested to read the further story in the next book in the series. Although the book is quite stretched and could have been been shorter but still I enjoyed it and it was worth my time.
Profile Image for Katia M. Davis.
Author 3 books18 followers
May 15, 2021
Not bad

I found this a bit slow to start but once it got into the story it moved a lot more quickly. There was some repetitive phrasing and it could have done with a final polish, but it was relatively well written. I enjoy shifter stories, so this was a decent read for me. I think if it had gripped me more at the start I would have enjoyed it more.
Profile Image for Lynn Curtis.
89 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2019
Enjoyable

A.really enjoyable.supernatural story. A good start to a new series I look forward to reading when they become available. If you enjoy paranormal and shifter themes novels I highly recommend this one!
Profile Image for CJ O'Hara.
91 reviews8 followers
July 6, 2019
Great Story

The characters are strong, independent women respected by the men closest to them. The story is unique and imaginative. I was drawn into their world with every page! Looking forward to the sequel.
Profile Image for Shaunette.
180 reviews15 followers
December 11, 2019
Witty!

This book has definitely brought me out of my reader’s block! It’s funny, entertaining, and definitely that’s great big dose of lesbian werewolf that need every once in a while.

I can’t wait to get to the next book!
35 reviews
November 15, 2020
Love it!

I enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend reading it. The character’s back grounds are very interesting. I can’t wait to read more about the Collins & from the author Kate Hershberger.
Profile Image for Blue Reviews .
212 reviews13 followers
April 30, 2019
...............
A supernatural novel that both teenagers and adults will love. It will cast a spell on you and wont let you put it down
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Plot
In the supernatural world, Darcy and Ceridwen (twins) are considered extraordinary. They’re the first females born into the Collins clan. Darcy, as the first born is the heir of the Collins pack after her father . However, Darcy does not want that. Things start looking up when a beautiful druid doctor comes into their enthralling Darcy instantly. Making their father and the rest of the pack think that Darcy has finally decided to accept her destiny. 
Of course, not everyone wants Darcy to take over as pack leader and a plan begins to develop in an effort to bring down the Collins reign once and for all
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The author has worked hard in building the world and is succeeded brilliantly. The plot of the book is brilliant and characters are super attachable.
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i personally loved the book and am dying to read the book 2 sadly its not released yet.
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I would give this book 5 stars without blinking 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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Recommended to every teenager and adult who is into supernatural plots
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Profile Image for Soren.
10 reviews
June 3, 2019
The love story is cute I do love the immediate bonfire sort of attraction and the characters are fun! It’s a cute read but the plot can be a bit meandering. Quick fun read if you’re looking for that though.
Profile Image for Social Librarian.
135 reviews17 followers
August 29, 2020
Book Name: The Calling


Genre: Supernatural/ fantasy


Summary: Even in the supernatural world, Darcy and Ceridwen Collins are considered quite extraordinary. They’re the first females born into the Collins clan in nearly 1,000 years. They’re not only twins (an extreme rarity in the werewolf world) but twins that get along. Not to mention the whole Alpha/Omega dynamic. Darcy, as the first born and alpha, is the heir of the Collins pack. Destined to take over as pack leader when their father steps down. However, Darcy wants nothing to do with the infamous Collins pack and has been trying to convince her father to name her sister as the proper heir for years. Alistair won’t hear of such a thing as an omega becoming pack leader would surely end in anarchy.


My Opinion: Oh woah, this book is so extraordinary and I totally enjoyed it right from the very first page. It's the first book in the series but it's a standalone in itself. The themes and characters, everything else from dialogues to world building, it was done in very a fascinated and intriguing way. Things are so well planned, whether it's the dialogues or the random interactions. This book captures few sub plot with the main story, like the plan against one of the protagonist, these things show that a huge amount of effort has been taken to bring things so well. I am totally in love with it, I just completed this book within two installments.


Good and Bad: I loved how well built female characters are shown, they just set the example so well. They are so bold and strong.


My favorites from the book:

Darcy has to be my favorite, there are many scenes to drool over.


Target Audience: Anyone who enjoys good fantasy read with unique elements. I think young readers will love it more.


What to expect: Drama, fun, adventure, magic and captivating language.


Final verdict: This book tranfers the readers to an amazing place, with many amazing characters. It's a must read.


Rating: 4.5/5
Profile Image for Monika Singla.
374 reviews24 followers
August 23, 2020
🔷 BOOK: The Calling
🔷 AUTHOR: Kate Hershberger

The Calling is a story about werewolf sisters in the supernatural world. In the supernatural world, having a twins is very rare thing. Darcy and Ceridwen are the twins that get along very well. They can feel about the feelings of their sibling. The further story is about Darcy meeting Tamsin and their blooming relationship.

My Review:-
1) Cover page of the book is nice and related to the contents of the story.
2) Characters are amazing and the development in Darcy's character is super. I am expecting her character to be stronger in second part.
3) Plot of the story is gripping. I couldn't put this out down until I finished it.
4) Those who love reading about supernatural world will find this book interesting. Werewolf are born whereas vampires are made.
5) Language of the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story easily.

My Rating: 4.5/5
1,312 reviews61 followers
August 24, 2020
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: The Calling
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Kate Hershberger

𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
I love reading stories that have werewolf or vampires. My love for it started from Twilight movie and Vampire Diaries TV series. Recently I picked The Collins Series. The Calling is the first part in the series. The story is about the werewolf sister Darcy and Ceridwen Collins. Darcy was born first so she is an elder one. Darcy and Ceridwen are twin sisters.

Darcy was very dark and brooding while Ceridwen was bright and beaming. Werewolves find their mate in the twenties. But Collins sister hasn't found anyone yet. Tamsin and Darcy's attraction in their first meeting made the story more gripping.

The plot of the story is interesting and is built after putting great thought to it. Darcy's character is my favourite. I like the vivid imagination of the author. I can't wait to read the next book in the Collins series.

𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4/5
Profile Image for Patricia.
550 reviews12 followers
September 7, 2023
I liked this universe a lot

The first half was all hearty eyes, fun interactions and us learning about some of the races of this universe. You barely feel the tension being built. Then the second half begins and there's this very tense vibe you get because now on top of the multi person POV from the good guys you get a glimpse of the villain(s) too, very shot ones thank fuck, because I'll tell ya, I don't enjoy knowing what sick shit they're thinking about and here it wasn't that different. But in the end all was well and the consequences of people's actions were very satisfying :D

One thing I didn't love was the reason why a certain character left a certain building which culminated in a situation that wasn't ideal. I felt it was a tiny bit of a stretch to serve the plot, because it felt out of character for them, blowing a 'simple' thing out of proportion. But it wasn't so bad it took my joy or any star from the reading, just odd.
Profile Image for Issy Waldrom.
Author 10 books55 followers
April 17, 2023
A solid an enjoyable werewolf story, with plenty of the familiar tropes, but also with some unique ideas as well. It is an easy read, low angst, and weaved well. The relationship between Darcy and Tamsin is cute and adorable, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and the bond being formed. The secondary plots were interesting, especially seeing the other types of supernaturals present in the world. Very much looking forward to reading the remaining books in the trilogy. Very much recommended.
Profile Image for Karen.
519 reviews7 followers
April 2, 2023
I’ve never read a supernatural romance before. I enjoyed this one.
Profile Image for Rtz.
251 reviews
July 31, 2025
4 and a half stars. A good start to the trilogy.
Profile Image for Tory.
392 reviews10 followers
December 30, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It is highly entertaining with great characters and interesting story. I recommend taking the time to read this one. I am currently reading “The Cure” (book 2) and can’t wait for the 3rd book.
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